Opinion

Bad Coffee by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker

Bad Coffee

When I was in high school, I worked in the kitchen at the Holliday Restaurant in Stockton. The owner would often ask me if I’d like a cup of coffee. I’d thank him and respond, “I don’t drink coffee.” This same conversation occurred over and over and over. Finally, one day Vaughn told me, “Well, whenever you decide to drink coffee, learn to drink it black.” I stored that in the back of my mind and eventually began to drink coffee. (After all, I couldn’t convince anyone that I belonged to the Montgomery/Jennings family if I didn’t drink coffee!) Later, through the years, I switched to drinking coffee with “num-nums” in it. That’s hillbilly for the following ingredients: heavy whipping cream and pure maple syrup, or homemade chocolate satin sauce. I simply flipped around Vaughn’s advice because, if the coffee is bad, I can fix it with yummy additives.

I have a coffee mug that has “Life is too Short for Bad Coffee” imprinted on it. We can take that quote and run 100 miles with it. For example, “Life is too short for bad company, bad living, bad attitudes, and bad breath.” And I would take it a step further and add that life is too short to consume rice cakes, unsweetened tea, chicken gizzards, and raw fish. Those things are just not right!

Life is certainly too short to spend it foolishly. God’s Word reminds us of the brevity of our lives. Moses penned a prayer in Psalm 90:5,6,12 NLT: “You [God] sweep people away like dreams that disappear. They are like grass that springs up in the morning. In the morning it blooms and flourishes, but by evening it is dry and withered. Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.” We don’t want to spin the tires of our life going nowhere.

“You [God] turn people back to dust, saying, ‘Return to dust, you mortals!’ For You, a thousand years are as a passing day” (Psalm 90:3-4 NLT). God’s timetable and ours is not the same and it’s difficult to wrap our heads around that fact. It’s a fact that life is quickly passing by and we truly don’t have time to waste. We should treat each day as a precious treasure. We shouldn’t procrastinate on achieving the God-given dreams and goals we have for our lives. I grew up with the motto, “Don’t put off ‘til tomorrow what you can do today.” Whoever said that first was a wise person. (I think it was my mom.)

Now is the time to move forward and do what you need to do, whatever that is for you. In regard to eternity, every day we should be preparing to die. There’s no guarantee of tomorrow, so all we really have is today. Apostle Paul gave wise advice, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:3 NKJV). We should not dismiss the opportunity that today affords. Pick up the phone and make that apology, write the letter, forgive, pay back what you borrowed 12 years ago, read the book, write the book, etc. Life is a beautiful experience but it’s surprisingly brief. Time waits for no one.

There is an urgency for doing the right thing now – today. We all have a window of opportunity and we don’t know when that window will close forever. Life is too short for unforgiveness, jealousy, hatred, bickering, disunity, and complaining. As long as we’re breathing, it’s not too late to do the right thing. Ready or not, the aging process will catch up with you and you better have your “house in order” (2 Kings 20:1). Don’t just talk about the things you want/need to do – do ‘em now. Now is the time.

The Key: Aging isn’t a choice like black coffee or coffee with num-nums. However, where you spend eternity is a choice: smoking or nonsmoking.

Opinion

Fortunately, Unfortunately by Patty LaRoche

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Patty LaRoche. 2023.
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)

“The amount of good things in your life depends on your ability to notice them.” Anonymous

In the theater classes I teach, we are working on a new Improvisational Acting activity. The students line up across the front of the room, and starting with Student #1, he/she starts a sentence with “Fortunately.” “Fortunately, I passed Calculus.” “Fortunately, I just bought my first car.” “Fortunately, I’m not grounded this week.” Whatever comes to mind.

Then the next student starts a sentence with “Unfortunately” and must choose a sentence that counters whatever Student #1 has said. “Unfortunately, passing that one test did not bring my grade to passing.” “Unfortunately, the engine caught fire the first day I drove it.” “Unfortunately, I’m only ungrounded to babysit my little brother and sister.”

Student #3 must add to the story, this time with a “Fortunately.” On it goes until we go through the line a couple of times.

There are two reasons I chose this activity: (1) It teaches students Improvisational skills like keeping dialogue going and thinking on their feet, and (2) They are forced to consider both sides, especially the positive one (which seems more difficult for them).

This started when I began noticing far too much negative thinking as my students answered a Roll Call question. Last Tuesday was a perfect example. “What is the best thing about living in America?” was the question (a far different one from the usual, “What’s your favorite dessert?”). Most students couldn’t think of anything, and those who did, answered with, “Well, it certainly isn’t the government” or “Maybe chocolate?” or “Absolutely nothing.”

I took a few seconds to respond. “Nothing? I’m confused. You are sitting in a desk, getting an education paid for by other people. Did any of you sleep in a cardboard box in an alleyway last night? None of you are starving, and if you are, you know where to find snacks in my desk drawer. Clearly, you all have clothes on. You girls will be allowed to drive and get a job, choose your own husband and speak your mind. You all can protest peacefully if you want something changed, and you say, “Absolutely nothing?”

No one responded.

Since Covid, there has been an increasing sense of hopelessness and negativity. Even my students who attend a weekly church group exhibit a pessimism I did not see when I taught 13 years ago. I have to remind them to say “thank you” when I hand them a pencil or a brownie, and if I don’t, I wait for one of them to thank me and then announce to the whole class, “Thank you, “Roni,” for saying thank you.

In the Old Testament, we read that Jeremiah, the “weeping prophet,” watched as his nation, Israel, deteriorated. They were captured, the city of Jerusalem was destroyed, and he felt hopeless. Sometimes, I feel like weeping over the state of our country, and especially the mess we are handing off to our children and grandchildren. I remind myself that God has a plan. In spite of our sinful nature, He offers us a way out. And do we deserve it?

Absolutely not. If there is anything we need to notice, that truth alone should negate our pessimism.

Uncategorized

Alleged Disorderly Election Conduct Video

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On October 25th, 2025, early voting was taking place at the Bourbon County Courthouse. The hallway outside the commission meeting room held voting booths, and the commission meeting on the North side of the hallway was being used as an area to validate voters and deal with provisional ballots. The use of the areas was described in a memo written by the Clerk on October 10th and discussed at the October 14th commission meeting.

The charges by the Kansas Attorney General against Commissioner Milburn-Key cite an October 25th incident that led to the two counts. The following is a summary of the contents of a video from the security camera in the commission room on that date, and is likely the incident in question. The Kansas Attorney General’s office gave FortScott.biz permission to view the video, but did not provide the actual file. A narrative of the video contents follows:

At 9:37 am, Commissioner Mika Milburn enters the commission meeting room, sits at her usual spot at the table, and takes out a newspaper. County Clerk Susan Walker enters at 9:38, and they converse. The conversation is hard to hear, but it is clear that Walker is telling Milburn that, under election law, people aren’t allowed in the commission room while it is being used as a polling place. Milburn appears to object

Milburn remains at the table and continues to read the newspaper after Walker leaves. To Milburn’s immediate right are a stack of provisional ballots that have been cast, but won’t be counted until they are verified.

Sounds of people coming in to vote can be heard on the recording. Milburn is sitting on the North side of the table, facing South toward the open door that opens into the hallway where people are coming in to vote.

At 9:40 Milburn unrolls her laptop charger, plugs it into the wall behind her and continues reading the newspaper. She uses a remote to adjust the TV at the back of the room.

At 9:41, someone enters the hallway, apparently to get their ballot, and Milburn waves and greets them through the open doorway.

Around 9:48, Walker returns and reiterates that election laws do not allow Milburn to be in the polling areas. Commissioner Milburn objects, saying that this is her office and that it won’t take her long to prep things. Walker says that she does not make the law, but she will call the police if necessary. This all happened right around 9:49.

The exact wording is hard to hear, but Milburn seems to be saying that her prep work won’t take very long. Walker gestures to the office 4 or 5 feet behind Milburn and asks her to move into that room. She offers to help her move her things into that office, where she can continue to work.

At 9:50 Milburn asks how long this is going to go on and how long she will not be able to use the commission room as her office. The clerk says the area will be used for voting while the elections are ongoing, and the discussion continues for a bit with Milburn saying that she needs to be in there to do her work.

Walker reiterates that she is asking Milburn to please leave the room, but Milburn says that it is unreasonable. Walker suggests it is not unreasonable.  At 9:51 Milburn takes her stuff into the adjoining room, comes back and gets her bag, and then mostly closes the door.

Government, Kansas

Ken Collins Kansas State Representative-Second District Newsletter

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Ken Collins. Submitted photo.

 

Thoughts From Under the Dome

Ken Collins

Kansas State Representative-Second District

 

 

Benny’s Bill was passed unanimously in the Senate as I have previously reported and was bundled in conference committee with three other public safety measures and is now on the way to Governor Kelly’s desk for approval. The package combines several good pieces of legislation and was done in the memory of the late Representative John Resman. The bill includes:

 

Benny’s Bill (HB2412): Elevate child endangerment charges from a misdemeanor to a felony if the victim is under the age of six.

 

Electronic Monitoring for Domestic Violence (HB2479)

 

Blackmail and Deepfake Protections (HB2594): Expands blackmail laws to include threats involving images especially involving minors including cases involving AI.

 

Position of Authority Law (HB2762): Strengthens law prohibiting sexual relations with students by clarifying adults in positions of authority at schools.

 

The Pharmacy Benefit Manager bill (SB 360) that I have previously mentioned was recently passed by the House under the new designation of SB 20. This bill puts some much needed regulation on the PBM monopoly that currently exists in this country. The House vote on this measure was 104-17 and it is now headed to the Governor for her signature.

 

Recently the House voted on and rejected by a vote of 46-75 was House Bill 2527. The purpose of HB 2527 was to restrict registered sex offenders from entering school property. That is a goal that I think that almost everyone would support but the bill did not address some of the possible scenarios that could come about and thus could cause unintended consequences. I voted no and I believe that was why most of my colleagues did as well.

 

The House and Senate are both adjourned until April 9th when we return for veto session. I would like to remind everyone that I have two legislative update events planned. The first one will be at the Mulberry Senior Citizens Center on Monday April 13th at 6:30 with the other one a week later on April 20th at the Galesburg Community Center. Ad Astra Per Aspera.

 

 

K-State Extension

Soil Testing – The First Step to a Successful Garden by Krista Harding

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Soil Testing – The First Step to a Successful Garden

Whether you’re new to gardening or have years of experience, one essential step should never be overlooked, and that is understanding your soil’s fertility. While your plants may offer clues, you can’t accurately judge soil nutrients by sight, touch, or guesswork alone. As planting season approaches, now is the perfect time to invest in a soil test.

A soil test provides a baseline of your soil’s nutrient levels and pH. With this information, you can determine exactly what type and amount of fertilizer your garden needs—if any at all. In many cases, soils already contain adequate levels of phosphorus or potassium. Applying more not only wastes time and money but can also harm plants and the environment.

Soil nutrient levels naturally change over time, which is why Kansas State University recommends testing garden soil every three to five years. However, the accuracy of your results depends entirely on how well you collect your sample. Follow these simple steps to ensure reliable results:

How to Take a Soil Sample

  1. Divide your garden into sections.
    Separate areas based on differences in soil color, texture, slope, or plant growth. Avoid mixing soil from unusual spots, such as low areas or old fence rows—these should be sampled separately.
  2. Collect multiple samples.
    Using a clean bucket and a soil probe or spade, take 10 thin cores or slices from across each section. Sample soil to a depth of 6–8 inches. For best results, avoid sampling when the soil is overly wet.
  3. Mix and prepare the sample.
    Combine all cores in your bucket, breaking up clumps and removing debris such as rocks, roots, and grass. From this mixture, take about one cup to one pint of soil. Spread it out to air dry on newspaper.
  4. Package and label.
    Place the dried soil in a sealable plastic bag or container. Clearly label it with your name, mailing address, and phone number.
  5. Submit your sample.
    Drop off your sample at your local Extension office in Erie, Iola, Fort Scott, or Yates Center. Chanute residents may leave samples at Breiner’s Feed Store for pickup. The cost is $20 per sample, and results are typically available within 7 to 10 days.

Phosphorus and potassium levels tend to build up in soil over time. Excess amounts can damage plant growth and may even leach into nearby streams and lakes, contributing to water pollution. In fact, recent tests from the K-State soil lab have found some Kansas samples with nutrient levels so high they were literally “off the charts.”

If your garden didn’t perform as expected last year, poor soil fertility or an imbalanced pH may have been the cause. A soil test takes the guesswork out of gardening and gives you a clear path forward.

Don’t wait until after planting to check your soil. Test now so you have time to make any needed adjustments—and set your garden up for success.

Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension horticulture agent serving the Southwind District. She can be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.

Obituary

Obituary of Robert “Bob” Dean McBride

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Robert “Bob” Dean McBride, 79, of Fort Scott, passed away Wednesday evening, March 25, 2026, at his home. He was born April 8, 1946, in Mapleton, Kansas, the son of Charles LaWayne McBride and Dorothy Louise (Killion) McBride. He married Linda Ann Large on August 22,1969, in Devon, Kansas, and she preceded him in death on February 16, 2016.

Bob graduated from Uniontown High School. He served his country in the U.S. Army from October 23, 1967, until November 8, 1971. He was a member of the Devon Masonic Lodge & Shriners Mounted Patrol. He enjoyed trail riding & camping on a regular basis with close friends, hunting & fishing. He played in a pool league for numerous years.

Bob is survived by three daughters, Jimmie Hughes and husband Rod, of Archie, Missouri, Bridget Wright and husband John, of Stockton, Missouri, and Tina Jones and husband Rick, of Nevada, Missouri and a son, David McBride and Ashlea, of Fort Scott; a sister-in-law, Arlene Boswell & their children Tim & Annette; eight grandkids, Tiffany Ogle (Clayton), Caleb Franklin (Nichole), Cody Franklin (Tim), Jessica Norwood (Aaron), Megan Demster (Kevin), Zach Simhiser (Hannah), Dalton Jones (Bri), Charlie Wright, & eight great-grandkids. In addition to his wife Linda, Bob was also preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Gary Wayne McBride.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home with burial immediately following at the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends for a visitation at the funeral home Sunday evening, March 29, 2026, from 4:00-5:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Care to Share, and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Uncategorized

Bourbon County Commission Agenda Summary, March 30, 2026

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The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

There will be a work session on 03.30.26 at 4:30 PM to discuss Budget Goals for the Bourbon County Commission. Following the work session at 5:30 PM the board will meet for their regular commission meeting at 210 S National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS 66701.

Meeting Agenda: Bourbon County Commission

03.30.26 Agenda Packet

Date: March 30, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM

Location: Bourbon County Commission

I. Call Meeting to Order

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Prayer

IV. Introductions

V. Approval of Agenda

VI. Approval of Minutes (03.23.26)

VII. Approval of Accounts Payable (03.27.26) – $60,156.30

VIII. January Financials

IX. Public Comments

X. Executive Session

  • K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) – Attorney/Client privilege regarding Gregg Motley

XI. Department Updates

  • a. Culvert Permit: Tuchscherer (874 210th) – K Allen

  • b. ADM Agreement: Transfer Station – K Allen

  • c. Culvert Permit: Farley (2445 Jayhawk) – K Allen

XII. Old Business

  • a. Elevator Package: Presented by Commissioner Tran

  • b. Vending Machine Placement

  • c. Title IV-E County Reimbursement Opportunity

  • d. Audit RFP

XIII. New Business

  • a. Hay Bids: Presented by the County Clerk

XIV. Future Agenda Topics

XV. Commission Comments

XVI. Adjournment

(Source: PDF Page 1)

Agenda Packet Detailed Summary

1. Previous Meeting Minutes (March 23, 2026)

The packet includes minutes from the previous week’s session. Key highlights include:

  • Public Comments: Clint Walker voiced concerns regarding the condition of flags in the chamber. County Clerk Susan Walker presented legal opinions regarding the restricted access individual commissioners have to personnel records. (Page 3)

  • Cintas Proposal: A representative from Cintas presented a plan to provide hygiene products and dispensers, claiming a potential 10% cost reduction over current providers. (Page 4)

  • Sewer Issues at Hidden Valley: Discussion of serious sewage violations at Hidden Valley lake community, where 30-40 homes lack regular pumping, leading to environmental concerns and potential KDHE fines of up to $7,000 daily. (Page 4)

  • Forensic Audit RFP: Commissioner Tran presented a draft for a forensic audit covering multiple county offices from 2021 to the present. (Page 4)

  • ADM Composting Agreement: Tabled for further cost analysis; current equipment issues (a tractor in the shop since June) have made managing the bean composting volume difficult. (Page 5)

(Source: PDF Pages 2-6)

2. Accounts Payable (March 27, 2026)

The total accounts payable for this period is $60,156.30. The packet includes a line-item breakdown by department:

  • Appraisers: $387.49 for wireless services and fuel. (Page 7)

  • Landfill: $10,740.00, including significant diesel fuel costs and waste services from Allen County Public Works. (Page 7-8)

  • Sheriff/Correctional: $17,475.40, which includes nursing services ($7,678.50), utility costs for the jail ($3,495.17), and plumbing repairs. (Page 8-9)

  • Road & Bridge: $4,887.10 for equipment parts, fuel, and vehicle leases. (Page 9-11)

  • County Jail Bond: $7,641.00 for vehicle fleet leases and equipment principal/interest payments. (Page 11-12)

  • Commissioners: $1,911.32, which includes a new laptop for Commissioner Joe Allen ($1,618.21). (Page 13)

(Source: PDF Pages 7-13)

3. Financial Reports (January 2026)

The packet contains the “Revenue and Expense Report” for the start of the year:

  • General Fund: Provides the percentage of budget remaining for various departments like the Register of Deeds and Courthouse Maintenance. (Page 98)

  • Tax Distributions: Detailed records of tax receipts for employee benefits, public safety, and road and bridge funds. (Pages 106, 125, 133)

  • School District & Watershed Distributions: Records of tax distributions to local entities including USD 234, USD 248, and various watersheds. (Pages 158, 163, 168, 177)

(Source: PDF Pages 98-201)

Government, Kansas

Masterson: Senate Will Ring-In Another Override

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Topeka, KS — Today, Senate President Masterson issued the following statement in regard to the Governor’s veto of HB 2635.

“Yet again, Laura Kelly has chosen to veto good legislation that saves lives. This bill simply protects pregnancy resource centers’ ability to educate mothers and provide life-affirming care. I look forward to ringing-in another override soon,” said Masterson.
Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes House Bill 2635

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today vetoed House Bill 2635.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Bill 2635:

“The people of Kansas have made it clear, time and time again, that they want government to stay out of women’s private medical decisions. That means we shouldn’t be spending tax dollars trying to interfere with that very personal, very private, medical decision. That’s why I’m vetoing this bill.

“Therefore, pursuant to Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution of the State of Kansas, I hereby veto House Bill 2635.”

Government, Kansas

Ken Collins Gives Update on HB2479

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Just a quick update on Benny’s Bill. It has been bundled with several other related bills under the number HB 2479 and the bundle has passed both the house and senate and will now go to the Governor. The bundle includes the following:
lectronic Monitoring for Domestic Violence (HB 2479)
Requires courts to consider GPS monitoring with victim notification for certain domestic violence cases to help protect victims before trial.
Blackmail and Deepfake Protections (HB 2594)
Expands blackmail laws to include threats involving images, videos, and AI-generated content.
Privacy and Exploitation Protections (HB 2518)
Strengthens penalties for recording or sharing private images, especially involving minors, including cases involving AI or digital manipulation.
Position of Authority Law (HB 2762)
Clarifies that adults in positions of authority at schools, including volunteers age 21 and older, cannot engage in inappropriate relationships with students.
I will follow up later with a new Thoughts From Under the Dome

Ken Collins

Kansas State Representative-Second District

620-240-0778

 

Re
Bourbon County

Federal Lawsuit Alleging Retaliation, Discrimination, and FMLA Violations

Shane Walker, who worked for the county for 21 years, claims he was fired while on medical leave in retaliation for his wife’s discrimination complaints — and that a commissioner later told someone as much.

Jump to section:
Timeline of Filings
Background
Employment Contract
Protected Activity
The Layoff
Post-Layoff Retaliation
Legal Claims
EEOC & Right to Sue
About FMLA
Relief Sought
Court Documents
Case name: Shane Walker v. Board of County Commissioners of Bourbon County, Kansas, et al.
Case number: 26-CV-01057-DDC-ADM
Court: U.S. District Court, District of Kansas
Trial location: Kansas City, Kansas
Plaintiff’s attorney: Gaye B. Tibbets, Hite, Fanning & Honeyman L.L.P., Wichita, KS
Jury trial: Requested

Shane Walker, who served as Bourbon County’s Chief Information Officer for several years before his July 2025 layoff, has filed a federal lawsuit against the county, three county commissioners, and an HR contractor. Walker alleges he was let go while on approved medical leave in retaliation for discrimination complaints he and his wife, County Clerk Susan Walker, had filed against the county. The suit was filed March 9, 2026 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas and raises ten separate legal claims including breach of contract, retaliation under federal civil rights law, First and Fourteenth Amendment violations, and violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Everything described in this article comes from Walker’s complaint and the documents attached to it. These are allegations — none have been proven in court. The county and the individual defendants named in the suit have not yet filed their responses.

Timeline of Court Filings

  • March 9, 2026
    Original Complaint filed — Walker files his initial 21-page complaint in U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.
    Document 1, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Civil Cover Sheet filed — Standardized JS 44 form establishes the case docket. Lists primary cause of action as 42 U.S.C. § 1983 with a brief description of “Breach of contract.” Checks boxes for Family and Medical Leave Act (§751) and Civil Rights (§440).
    Document 2, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Designation of Place of Trial — Walker initially designates Wichita, Kansas as the trial location.
    Document 3, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Amended Designation of Place of Trial — Walker amends the trial location to Kansas City, Kansas.
    Document 4, p.1
  • March 9, 2026
    Request for Jury Trial — Walker requests a trial by jury on all claims triable to a jury.
    Document 5, p.1
  • March 10, 2026
    Amended Complaint and Employment Agreement Exhibit filed — Walker files a 21-page Amended Complaint (Document 6) with an attached Exhibit A, his June 7, 2022 employment contract (Document 6-1).
    Document 6, p.1 | Document 6-1, p.1

Background: Walker’s Employment History

Shane Walker, 56, started working for Bourbon County on December 15, 2005 and, according to the complaint, spent 21 years there without a single disciplinary or performance issue. (Amended Complaint [AC], ¶¶1, 9) None of the positions he held were policymaking roles. (AC ¶10) In late 2024 he was also appointed Deputy Register of Deeds — without any additional pay — to fill in for the elected Register of Deeds when she was unavailable. (AC ¶11)

Walker was laid off on July 9, 2025, when his salary was $88,616.84. (AC ¶12) He was re-hired by the elected Register of Deeds on November 17, 2025 at $16 per hour for archiving work — a position of at least 30 hours per week. (AC ¶64)

The Employment Contract

In 2022, Walker served as the county’s Chief Information Officer (CIO) at an annual salary of $82,617.60. (AC ¶14) On June 7, 2022, he and the county entered into a formal written employment contract. (AC ¶15; Employment Agreement, p.1) The contract included several key provisions:

  • Vacation: 28 days of paid vacation per year (carry-over permitted) plus 20 days at the beginning of each year to be used by December of that year. (AC ¶15a; Employment Agreement ¶7)
  • Term and auto-renewal: The agreement ran from May 1, 2022 through December 1, 2025, and renewed automatically for one-year periods unless either party gave the other 45 days written notice of termination prior to expiration. (AC ¶15b; Employment Agreement ¶8)
  • Severance: If Walker were terminated before expiration for reasons other than “any unethical or improper act involving personal gain,” the county agreed to pay 60 days aggregate salary plus accumulated vacation and sick leave. The complaint identifies this amount as $20,448. (AC ¶15c; Employment Agreement ¶9A)

The complaint alleges that in January 2023, the county passed a resolution claiming to “negate” or “cancel” all employee contracts — but that it never gave Walker the required 45-day written notice of termination. (AC ¶17) The complaint includes an excerpt from the minutes of the county’s January 24, 2023 meeting in which a county official explains the resolution. (AC ¶18)

The complaint states the county did pay some vacation through January 2023, but that the rest of the contract promises — including the 60-day severance — were never paid. (AC ¶19) On August 22, 2025, Walker’s attorney sent a written demand for the contractual damages and unpaid vacation and sick leave. The county declined to respond. (AC ¶24)

Editorial note: During his July 2025 layoff conversation, the complaint alleges that Dr. Cohen told Walker his contract would be paid and that his termination “had nothing to do with his performance,” describing it as “professional.” (AC ¶57) The complaint also alleges that another county employee with a similar contract gave the required 45-day notice when he resigned, and the county gave him “a gift” of cash at his resignation. (AC ¶81)

Protected Activity: Discrimination Complaints and Advocacy

Susan Walker and her complaints

Shane Walker has been married to Susan Walker since May 19, 2023. Susan Walker currently serves as the elected Bourbon County Clerk and previously served as the county’s Chief Financial Officer. The complaint notes all defendants were aware of the marriage. (AC ¶25)

In September 2024, Susan Walker filed an administrative complaint with the KHRC alleging gender and age discrimination and retaliation in the terms and conditions of her employment. She specifically complained that then-commissioners Harris and Beth were rude and dismissive to her and other female employees, that the county would not let her transfer to another position, that her work was being scrutinized more closely than male employees, and that she was being excluded from work-related conversations while having her employment threatened. (AC ¶37)

In February 2025, Susan Walker sued the county in state court for breach of her written employment contract, which was similar to her husband’s. (AC ¶39) When the county failed to respond to the properly served summons, a judge entered a default judgment of $199,527.04 against the county on May 5, 2025. (AC ¶40) The default judgment was later set aside by agreement, with the county paying $8,000 in legal fees to Susan Walker’s attorney; the order setting it aside was not entered until September 2025. (AC ¶41) Susan Walker’s discrimination, retaliation, and breach of contract claims ultimately settled in 2026, before this federal lawsuit was filed. (AC ¶43)

The complaint also alleges that Commissioner Tran, during a public meeting in which Susan Walker was explaining a report, derisively said to her: “Oh, are we going to talk about your feelings again?” The complaint states no commissioner had ever made such a statement to a male county employee. (AC ¶38)

Shane Walker’s own advocacy

In the summer of 2024, Shane Walker wrote a letter to county commissioners “in support of my wife and all the other women in our organization,” complaining of Commissioners Beth’s and Harris’s “lack of respect for woman (sic) in positions of authority and even with taxpayers who come to our meetings who are not men.” He concluded that “the other very professional women of our organization deserve to be treated with the same respect as anyone else.” (AC ¶26) The complaint notes Walker wrote the letter as a private citizen, not as part of his job duties. (AC ¶28)

Walker says he also made his views known to each of the three commissioners named in the suit: he spoke with Beerbower when Beerbower joined the commission on January 13, 2025 (AC ¶31); with Milburn-Kee when she joined in April 2025 (AC ¶32); and with Tran before Tran took office. (AC ¶33)

Walker’s 2024 age discrimination complaint

On September 30, 2024, Walker filed a complaint with the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC) alleging age discrimination and retaliation. The filing was prompted by what Walker says was different treatment compared to younger employees, and by statements commissioners Beth and Harris allegedly made during a 2024 executive session about wanting to fire Walker and replace him with a younger trainee. (AC ¶¶34–35) (Beth and Harris were commissioners at that time but are no longer on the commission and are not named as defendants in this lawsuit — the current defendants are Commissioners Milburn-Kee, Tran, and Beerbower, along with HR contractor Dr. Cohen.) Walker was not terminated in the ten months that followed that filing. (AC ¶36)

The Layoff

IT outsourcing and the lead-up to termination

Walker’s primary job duty was responsibility for the county’s IT services. (AC ¶44) During the week of June 13, 2025 — while Susan Walker’s default judgment was still pending — Commissioner Milburn-Kee suggested that the county’s network infrastructure have a “health check.” The commission hired an organization called Stronghold to perform the check. The complaint states no commissioner had previously mentioned hiring an outside agency for IT services. (AC ¶45)

Commissioner Milburn-Kee then insisted she be given server passwords in her role as commissioner. Walker and his coworker, Jimmy Kemmerer, refused to disclose the confidential information. (AC ¶46) A confrontation ensued and Kemmerer called police. The county fired Kemmerer for cause on July 2, 2025. (AC ¶47)

FMLA leave and termination

The complaint alleges that because of the discrimination and retaliation suffered by himself and his wife, Walker’s blood pressure rose to a dangerous level in June 2025. (AC ¶49) On June 24, 2025, Walker wrote to the commissioners complaining that he was being retaliated against because of his association with his wife and their discrimination complaints. (AC ¶48)

Walker applied for and was granted intermittent FMLA leave on June 26, 2025 and began working reduced hours. He remained on FMLA leave until he was terminated. (AC ¶50) The complaint alleges that all commissioners and Dr. Cohen were aware Walker was on FMLA leave when the termination decision was made. (AC ¶55)

Walker was given one week’s notice prior to his July 9, 2025 layoff — less than two weeks after his FMLA leave began. The complaint notes this layoff came ten months after his KHRC age discrimination filing; two months after his wife’s default judgment against the county; two weeks after his June 24 retaliation letter; less than six months after his statements to Beerbower and Milburn about gender discrimination; and two weeks after he began FMLA leave. (AC ¶56)

The complaint states the vote to terminate Walker was unanimous — all defendants voted in favor and Dr. Cohen did not counsel against it. (AC ¶58) The commission publicly claimed it outsourced the IT department to save money. (AC ¶59)

Key Allegation: What Beerbower Allegedly Said

The complaint includes an allegation that goes to the core of the retaliation claim. After the layoff, the complaint states:

“Commissioner Beerbower told a county employee that the County commissioners ‘got rid of Shane’ because they ‘could not get rid of Susan.'”

Because Susan Walker is an elected official, the complaint notes, the commissioners cannot terminate her. (AC ¶¶58–60; AC ¶¶87–88)

The complaint disputes the county’s cost-savings rationale, alleging the outsourcing decision was more expensive, less effective, and more time-consuming than retaining Walker. The complaint states current estimates put costs at double, that performance has been less efficient, that security issues have occurred, and that three different elected officials have circumvented the new IT system because of difficulties getting assistance. (AC ¶61)

Walker’s second KHRC complaint

On September 9, 2025, Walker filed a second KHRC complaint alleging his layoff was motivated by his association with his wife, retaliation for his gender discrimination advocacy, age discrimination, and retaliation for his 2024 age discrimination complaint. His original 2024 complaint was still pending at that time. (AC ¶62)

Post-Layoff: Alleged Continued Retaliation

When Walker was re-hired by the Register of Deeds in November 2025, the complaint alleges the commissioners and Dr. Cohen continued to interfere:

  • Health insurance: County policy provides health insurance to employees working 30 or more hours per week. Walker worked at least 30 hours. Despite this, Commissioner Milburn-Kee called the HR department and told them Walker should not be on the county’s health insurance. The complaint states no other 30-hour employee who had not filed administrative complaints had a commissioner attempt to interfere with their health insurance. (AC ¶¶65–67)
  • Seniority and benefits — “bridging”: County policy (called “bridging”) was to restore seniority, vacation, and sick leave for employees re-hired by elected officials. The complaint states the sheriff had done this several times without commissioner interference. In Walker’s case, defendants changed his employment records to set his seniority date to 2025, preventing bridging. The complaint states he was the only laid-off employee ever prevented from bridging by the County Commissioners. (AC ¶¶69–72)
  • Cohen’s statement to the Register of Deeds: The complaint alleges Dr. Cohen called the elected Register of Deeds and told her the commissioners were upset that she had re-hired Walker “because of his lawsuits.” The complaint clarifies that Walker had no active lawsuits against the county — only pending administrative complaints — and argues this statement is direct evidence of retaliatory motive. (AC ¶¶74–75)
  • HR administrator’s statement: The county’s HR administrator also pushed back on the hiring, telling the Register of Deeds that the commissioners did not “understand why you would hire someone who is suing the county.” (AC ¶97)
  • Beerbower’s FMLA comment: After Walker was re-hired, Commissioner Beerbower referred to his earlier use of FMLA medical leave as “Shane’s antics.” (AC ¶54)

The Ten Legal Claims

  • Count I — Breach of Contract against Bourbon County: County failed to provide required 45-day written notice of contract termination and failed to pay the 60-day severance ($20,448) and enhanced vacation pay for 2023–2024 and 2024–2025. (AC ¶¶77–81)
  • Count II — Kansas Wage Payment Act (KWPA) against Bourbon County, Cohen, Beerbower, Milburn-Kee, and Tran: The severance and vacation pay constitute “wages” under Kansas law (K.S.A. 44-323); defendants willfully withheld them, exposing defendants to wages plus a 100% penalty under K.S.A. 44-315(b). (AC ¶¶82–85)
  • Count III — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Termination and post-termination benefit interference in retaliation for Walker’s association with his wife, who engaged in protected Title VII activity. (AC ¶¶86–89)
  • Count IV — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Retaliation for Walker’s own advocacy against gender discrimination, which constitutes protected activity under Title VII. (AC ¶¶90–93)
  • Count V — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Retaliation for Walker’s September 2024 KHRC complaint alleging age discrimination. (AC ¶¶94–98)
  • Count VI — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 / First Amendment (Free Speech) against Beerbower, Cohen, Tran, and Bourbon County: Walker’s complaints about gender discrimination were protected speech on a matter of public concern, made as a private citizen. Defendants retaliated against him for that speech. (AC ¶¶99–103)
  • Count VII — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 / First Amendment (Right of Association) against Bourbon County: Terminating Walker and denying his benefits because his wife engaged in protected litigation and complaints violates his First Amendment right to associate with his spouse. (AC ¶¶104–108)
  • Count VIII — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 / Fourteenth Amendment (Due Process) against all defendants: Defendants deprived Walker of contractual property rights — including the 60-day severance, 48 days vacation per year, and health insurance — without due process. (AC ¶¶109–113)
  • Count IX — Title VII Retaliation against Bourbon County: Retaliation for Walker’s September 2025 KHRC complaint (filed after the layoff). (AC ¶¶114–119)
  • Count X — FMLA Retaliation and Interference against Bourbon County and Dr. Cohen: Walker was terminated less than two weeks after being approved for FMLA leave, while still on that leave. The complaint alleges this both constitutes retaliation and deprived Walker of his right to reinstatement at the end of the FMLA period. (AC ¶¶120–125)

Understanding the EEOC Process and the Right to Sue

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), an employee generally cannot file a federal lawsuit until they have first filed a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and received a “Right to Sue” letter.

What is a Right to Sue Letter?

According to the EEOC:

“If we are unable to conciliate the charge, we will then decide whether to file a lawsuit to protect individuals or the public interest. If we decide not to file a lawsuit, we will close the charge and issue a Notice of Right to Sue, which gives the charging party 90 days to file a lawsuit.”

A Right to Sue letter does not mean the EEOC found that discrimination occurred — it is authorization to proceed to federal court.

Source: EEOC: What You Can Expect After a Charge is Filed

Walker filed his first KHRC/EEOC complaint on September 30, 2024 (AC ¶34) and his second on September 9, 2025. (AC ¶62) He received a Right to Sue letter covering both his 2024 and 2025 EEOC complaints on December 10, 2025. (AC ¶76) This lawsuit was filed on March 9, 2026 — within the required 90-day window. (AC ¶76)

In Kansas, employees may also file complaints with the Kansas Human Rights Commission (KHRC), which operates in a worksharing agreement with the EEOC, meaning a complaint filed with one agency is automatically cross-filed with the other.

Understanding FMLA: Why It Matters Here

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor, provides eligible employees of covered employers with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for qualifying medical reasons, including a serious health condition.

Federal Law on FMLA Retaliation

The Department of Labor states:

“The FMLA prohibits interference with an employee’s rights under the law, and prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee for opposing any practice, or because of involvement in any proceeding, related to FMLA.”

The law also entitles an eligible employee to be restored to the same or an equivalent position upon return from FMLA leave.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor: FMLA Frequently Asked Questions

The complaint alleges Walker was approved for intermittent FMLA leave on June 26, 2025 (AC ¶50) and was terminated less than two weeks later, on July 9, 2025, while still on that leave. (AC ¶122) The complaint further alleges that had he been allowed to continue his FMLA leave, he would have recovered and returned to the same position. (AC ¶125)

Relief Sought

The complaint seeks the following relief across the ten counts:

Court Documents

All documents are from Case No. 26-CV-01057-DDC-ADM, U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.

This article is based solely on court documents filed by Shane Walker. All descriptions of events are allegations and have not been proven in court. Bourbon County and the named defendants have not yet responded to the complaint and their side of the story is not reflected here.

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