Staying Mentally Sharp

Barbara Stockebrand. K-State Extension Agent.

 

Most older people can remain intellectually sharp late into their lives, but doing so requires two things. First, believe in your ability to maintain mental alertness and remain optimistic and confident that you can. Next, regularly exercise your mental talents just as you need to exercise your body to stay in peak physical condition.

One of the greatest fears of many older people is the loss of mental competence. Although obviously a possibility for some, both middle-agers and elders often worry excessively about this occurring.

Besides being nerve-racking, the worrying can encourage the very behavior we fear: We believe we are becoming forgetful and then point to perfectly natural lapses in memory as proof that senility is setting in. Thus, too often, our fear of mental decline becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, sometimes at a surprisingly early age. Guard against this tendency both in yourself and among your friends and family.

As we grow older, we show some decline in what is called “explicit memory.” For example, you want to remember a name or fact, and try as you might, the memory refuses to come on demand. Also, with advanced age, distractions can be more of a problem, and the speed of processing information slows. Other kinds of memory show little or no decline with age.

Some of this process has to do with the learning processes that work best for us. If we are a visual learner, for example, then those things we see will stick with us better. If our preferred learning style is through auditory processes, then we may have a greater need to hear things to retain them. We need to remember that we have to learn something before we can remember it. When it comes to recalling names, for example, if we have never been good at remembering names, then we shouldn’t be hard on ourselves if we don’t remember them well in older age.

With frequent use and practice, older persons can significantly improve their cognitive functioning. Activities such as reading, word games and stimulating conversations aid our mental abilities.

Take one day at a time, expect the best, stretch yourself to achieve it, and appreciate the gift of a good mind. Remember that most of us are capable of far more than we realize.

Contact Barbara Stockebrand at the Yates Center Southwind Extension District Office at 620-625-8620 for more resources on keeping your mind sharp.

Come Hell or High Water

There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.Proverbs 19:21

Several years ago, a severe rainstorm turned a peaceful town into a flooded disaster area. The local newspaper editor set out in a rowboat to cover the story in detail. As she paddled down a stream that had been one of the town’s residential streets, she noticed a woman sitting on the roof of a house.

The newspaper editor paddled to the edge of the roof, tied up her boat, climbed out, and sat down next to the woman. She thought that a woman sitting alone on her roof would make a great story. So, she took out a pen and paper. Before she could ask the woman a question, she saw a hat floating downstream with the current. When the hat reached the far side of the house, it made a complete u-turn and floated upstream to the other end of the house. Then the hat made another u-turn and floated downstream again until it reached the far side of the house where it turned again and floated upstream to the other end of the house. The hat did this time after time.

The reporter was bewildered. She turned to the woman and asked, “Do you have any idea what that hat is doing out there in front of your house?” She said, “Yes. That hat is on my husband’s head. He said that ‘come hell or high water’ he was going to mow the lawn today.”

The point is: Sometimes we stubbornly cling to our plans instead of letting go and letting God have control. We often ignore things that are important and continue to focus on the trivial. The flood rises to the rooftop, but we go on mowing the lawn.

You probably started 2020 with big plans. You had dreams of a year that had nothing to do with a global pandemic. Then March came and you had to change your plans.

Personally, I am very discouraged as we pass the year’s halfway mark. It seems nothing has gone right. Government bureaucrats, who can’t even fix the streets and sidewalks, have suddenly become health experts. They tell us it is healthy to gather in mass to protest, but it is unhealthy to gather in mass for church. They tell us that it is a woman’s right to choose to have an abortion, but I have no choice but to wear a mask. They let prisoners out of jail for fear of them catching COVID-19, but threaten to put Christians in jail if they sing in church. What is right is wrong and what is wrong is right. Nothing makes sense. It seems as if the world is spinning out of control.

But God is in control. The Bible says that there are many devices (or plans) in a man’s heart, but God’s purposes prevail (Proverbs 19:21). What are God’s purposes in this global havoc? Perhaps God wants us to forget about ourselves and focus on things that truly matter.

How long has it been since you… Took the time to go see someone who lives alone? Wrote an email to someone who crossed your mind? Spent more time in God’s book than on Facebook? Shared your faith? Offered forgiveness? Told someone that you loved them?

I suppose that I could stubbornly continue to be discouraged about the world situation. But instead, I think, I am going to let go and let God. Even in all this madness, I am going to look for ways to serve Him.

Come hell or high water.

James Collins is senior pastor of Fort Scott’s First Southern Baptist Church. Follow him on Twitter @collins_point, Facebook James Collins “The Point Is,” or at the website thepointis.net.

Kansas Office of Recovery Announces CARES Funds

Governor Kelly Announces the Transfer of Direct Aid Funds to Kansas Counties

$400 Million from the CARES Act – Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF)

 

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced the Office of Recovery’s disbursement of CARES Act funds to Kansas counties.

 

As part of her administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Kelly is directing resources to county officials and local administrators to cover COVID-19 expenses for communities across Kansas.

 

“We are putting these funds directly into the hands of our county governments and offering them the flexibility to direct the money in ways that are specific to their community needs,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Keeping our economy open and prioritizing the health and safety of Kansans is our goal, and these funds will relieve some of the burden Kansans are facing.”

 

Governor Kelly’s SPARK Taskforce and Office of Recovery have been assessing statewide needs for the second and third rounds of CRF investments.

 

Following the guidance of the U.S. Treasury to deliver funds fairly, timely, and effectually, $400 million of the State’s CRF allocation was distributed to local governments yesterday.

 

County governments can use the funds for reimbursement of the unbudgeted costs of expenditures incurred due to COVID-19. Additionally, county governments will be able to spend the remaining amount of their allotment by submitting a direct aid plan to the Office of Recovery by August 15, 2020. The direct aid plan allows counties to prepare for any possible increase in COVID-19 cases in the future.

 

The Office of Recovery has provided county officials with webinars, templates, and other resources to assist them in their direct aid plan preparations. Counties that do not submit direct aid plans will be required to return funds to the State.

 

“The SPARK Taskforce continues to address the needs of the people of Kansas,” Office of Recovery Executive Director Cheryl Harrison-Lee said. “Their expertise is invaluable as the Office of Recovery readies itself for the arduous task of administering and supporting this undertaking.”

 

The SPARK Taskforce will meet next week to hear SPARK Agency Work Group proposals for the statewide investment of Round II CRF dollars. The SPARK Steering Committee will convene on Monday, July 20, at 1:00 p.m. to review proposals. The SPARK Executive Committee will convene on Wednesday, July 22, at 11:00 a.m. to approve items for the State Finance Council’s review and final passage.

 

More information about the SPARK Taskforce and the tools provided to counties can be found at covid.ks.gov/spark-recovery-office/.

 

Statewide Nursing Facility Surveys Ahead of Deadline

KDADS Completes Statewide Nursing Facility Surveys Ahead of Federal Deadline;
Positioned for additional federal CARES Act funding*

TOPEKA –  Secretary Laura Howard announced today the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) has completed focused infection control surveys (FICS) in all federally certified nursing facilities in the state as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) more than two weeks ahead of the deadline set by the federal agency.

On March 4, 2020, CMS suspended non-emergency surveys of nursing facilities and redirected states to conduct FICS, immediate jeopardy complaints and allegations of abuse and neglect. That directive was followed June 1, 2020 by the release of CMS document QSO-20-31-All that requires states to complete 100% of FICS by July 31, 2020 to maintain full FY 2021 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocations. KDADS reached the July 31 mandate more than 2 weeks ahead of the deadline, ensuring the state will continue to receive its complete share of CARES funds to protect these vulnerable populations.

Since the March 4 directive was received from CMS, 57 full-time KDADS surveyors with support from contractor Healthcare Management Solutions, have completed surveys in all of the state’s 326 certified, licensed facilities. QSO-20-29-NH All outlines specific enforcement actions for infection control citations facilities are subject to based on inspection results. To date, surveyors have:

“Since the pandemic started, KDADS surveyors have been on the frontlines conducting in-person inspections and investigations and have been essential to our successful compliance with federal directives that address the safety of Kansans in nursing facilities and the staff who care for them,” Secretary Howard said. “Reaching the 100% requirement early is a reflection of the hard work of our dedicated team of surveyors.”

To help track COVID-19 and its impact on nursing facilities across the state and to inform the public, KDADS has developed an online resource page that contains detailed information including FICS completed and infection control citations issued, reopening guidance, facilities reporting COVID-19 cases by county, and Kansas-facility specific data from CMS. Visit https://kdads.ks.gov/covid-19/adult-care-home-covid-19-data.

*States that have not completed 100% of their FICS by July 31, 2020 will be required to submit a corrective action plan to CMS outlining a strategy for completion within 30 days. If, after the 30-day period, states have not achieved 100% compliance, CARES Act FY2021 allocation may be reduced up to10%. Subsequent 30-day extensions could result in additional reductions to 5%. These funds will be redistributed to states that completed 100% of their FICS by July 31.

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the KDHE website at www.kdhe.ks.gov/coronavirus.

Obituary of George D. Weber

 

George Daniel Weber, age 75, resident of Hepler, Kansas, passed away at 7:05 a.m., Thursday, July 16th, 2020, at his home surrounded by family.

George was born September 19th, 1944, in Nevada, Missouri, the son of Lewis Daniel Weber and Marzie Etheleen (Cocke) Weber. He attended the Hackberry Country School, Nevada High School and Fort Scott Community College.

George married Arlene Ausemus on March 29th, 1982, in Grove, Oklahoma. She survives of the home.

George, enlisted in the United States Army on November 19th, 1966, and attended basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and then advanced individual training at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. Following his completion of his military training, George was deployed to the Mekong River Delta, Vietnam in support of United States Military forces in the Vietnam War. During his time in service, George served as primary motor pool sergeant and was instrumental in his unit’s success in the completion of numerous reconnaissance missions for retrieval and repair of military equipment throughout his time in Vietnam. After returning home from Vietnam, George was station at Fort Carson, Colorado until he was honorably discharged at the rank of E5/Sergeant on November 16th, 1969.

During his life George worked as a journeyman roofer as a part of the roofers union while employed by Maloney Roofing, Delivery and Sales for Fort Scott Beverage Company, Sales and Service for Henkley Beverage/ 7up International, lead carpenter for Joe Richards construction, 13+ years as a convenience store manager for Severy’s Conoco in Fort Scott, Kansas, as well as spent many years working for local farmers and ranchers.

He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, family fish fry’s, vacationing in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and spending time with his family.

He was also a member of the VFW and American Legion.

Survivors include his wife Arlene Weber, of Hepler; son David Weber, and his wife, Betty, of Fort Scott; daughter Robin Weber, and spouse, Justin Edwards, of Girard; daughter Sheril Murray, and husband, Evan, of Toronto; daughter Sara Conkling, and husband, Joseph, of Fort Scott; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister Verna Helen Steele of Springfield, MO; and his brother Woody Weber of Rich Hill, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Lois Weber; two brothers, William and Claud Weber; and two nephews, David Leon Weber and Gary Weber.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM Tuesday July 21st, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Private family burial will take place in the U. S. National Cemetery, Ft. Scott.

Memorials are suggested to either Donate Life or American Diabetes Association and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Johnny Jolliff

 

Johnny Jeanette (Hines) Jolliff, age 51, resident of Ft. Scott, KS, died Friday, July 17, 2020, at her home. She was born April 29, 1969, in Kansas City, KS, the daughter of Kenneth and Oleta Smith Hines.

She worked as a truck driver, worked for Tri-Valley Developmental Services, and also worked as a caregiver for over 35 years.

She loved spending time with her adopted family fishing, geocaching, and sightseeing in the car. She was always up for a new adventure.

She was a member of the First Southern Baptist Church.

Survivors include four sisters, Connie Willis, Ft. Scott; Rebecca Haga, Waldron, AR; Lillian Lewis, Arma, KS; and Peggy Hull, Ft. Scott; her mother, Oleta Smith, Ft. Scott; her grandmother, Lillian Smith, Kansas City, KS; best friend of 30 years, Forestine “Babe” Goodbody; special buddy K. W. Goodbody; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Hines; a sister, Nancy Jo Stewart; and her grandfather, John T. Smith.

Rev. James Collins will conduct funeral services at 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 22, at the First Southern Baptist Church, Ft. Scott.

Burial will follow in the Clarksburg Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Johnny Jolliff Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for July 20

 

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: July 20, 2020

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

MEETING WILL BE HELD ON THE FIRST FLOOR LOBBY. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.

1:30 Commission, 2021 Budget Review

1:45 Clint Anderson, Executive Session, Personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel

2:00 County Grant Applications & Acceptances

2:15 Bob Reed, Executive Session, Personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel

FS Commission Agenda for July 21

AGENDA

FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

FORT SCOTT CITY HALL

COMMISSION ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN

JULY 21, 2020

6:00 P.M.

I. ROLL CALL:

K. ALLEN P. ALLEN NICHOLS WATTS MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE

III. INVOCATION: Pastor from Community Christian Church

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Recognition of Ryan Coon and Jesse Smith (presented with certificate from the City Commission)

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July 7th, 2020 and amended special meeting minutes of June 30th, 2020.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1267-A totaling $521,599.42.

  1. Request to Pay #9 – Crossland Heavy Contractors – $400,285.97 – River Intake Project

  1. Request to Pay #10 – Crossland Heavy Contractors – $136,141.25 – River Intake Project

  1. Request to Pay #11 – Crossland Heavy Contractors – $71,607.49 – River Intake Project

  1. Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc. – $53,457.75 – River Intake Project

  1. Request to Pay – Lauber Municipal Law, LLC – (June) – $11,187.50

  1. June financials

VII. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: Michael Bryant – First Source Lease

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute limit per citizen) – Schery Rupprecht – 500 block Andrick

Ralph Carlson

Michael Hoyt

C. PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:

VIII. CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration of Resolution 13-2020 – Coronavirus Relief Funds – SPARKS Grant

  1. Approval to sell three Police seizure vehicles through Purple Wave Auction Company

  1. Approval to sell miscellaneous firearms through sealed bid process to Federal Firearms Licensed Dealers

  1. Consideration of US Cellular Ground Lease and for Mayor to sign all pertinent documents

IX. COMMENTS:

  1. Director Updates: Susan Bancroft – Budget Update

Allyson Turvey – CDBG-CV Grant Update

Healthy Bourbon County Grant

  1. Commission:

Kevin Allen – Discussion of Sunday Liquor sales

Executive Session – K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1) – to discuss matters of non-elected personnel;

  1. City Attorney: Consideration of adoption of Code of Ethics – Ordinance No. 3563
  1. City Manager:

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION.

THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THE RECESS IS THE DISCUSSION OF:

The statutory justification for the recess is:

K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1) – to discuss matters of non-elected personnel;

K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) – consultation with the City Attorney on matters that would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship;

K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(3) – to discuss employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the public body or agency;

K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4) – to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships;

K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(6) – for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

The Executive Session will be for _________ minutes long and the open meeting will resume at ___________ am/pm.

X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL

FS Commission Special Meeting Minutes of June 30, Amended

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING (AMENDED)

Minutes of June 30, 2020 Special Meeting #7

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 30th, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, Randy Nichols, Lindsey Watts were present with Mayor JoLynne Mitchell presiding.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Rebecca Johnson, Public Health Officer, was present via telephone.

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Discussion of City facilities and the rise in COVID-19 cases – Dave Bruner, informed the Commission that Public Health is on the phone today to discuss the COVID issues and City facilities. There is a resolution back in 1972 that gave the authority for Public Health to made decisions during emergencies like this. She will update us on COVID and Deb Needleman is here to update us on the insurance side of COVID and our facilities.

Becky said as of this morning, Bourbon County has seven (7) new cases of COVID-19 and the majority of those are related to previously listed cases. One case they are still unsure of and have not completed their investigation. Yesterday they were notified that the Governor is going to be issuing an Executive Order ordering most Kansans be required to wear masks out in public effective 12:01 a.m. on July 3rd, 2020. Also, yesterday K.D.H.E. set out travel restrictions for Florida and South Carolina and you would need to quarantine for 14 days. Also, still on the list are Alabama, Arizona, and Arkansas. Maryland was removed from the list. They are looking at other states to be added to the list and she wouldn’t be surprised to see Texas, Oklahoma, and Utah in the coming days. In looking at our county in general yesterday, and how things were going, it was not a day with a lot to report. Today there is and we are reassessing to what our county should be doing. She said she is going to hold steady to the 45 number for a gathering through July 8th and she will hold steady to that. She knows there is lots of questions about that. Some of that will be have to be left up to interpretation because there isn’t a way to have every single specific distancing activity outlined. People to have to responsible and make good choices for themselves and for others. Obviously, we have situations where this hasn’t been practiced or we wouldn’t be in this situation. She has backing from her medical director and from the State and she is holding steady to this number.

JoLynne asked what to do with someone who interprets the 45 number in capacity different than someone else? Will that go back to that person being responsible?

Becky said that it would go back if there was an outbreak. Some lawyer is out there waiting for something like this. Also then Public Health would be calling you and not be leaving the phone with you for a number of days and then doing contact tracing and all that entails.

Kevin asked again if the 45 number of gathering was a suggestion.

Becky said it was an order.

Kevin asked what the repercussions were with a group that met over 45?

Becky said that you would have to deal with liability knowing you violated an order and if it is known to the public, you would have to deal with all the contact tracing, and the State could step in if it becomes that big of an issue. Also, you could be faced with a misdemeanor if you are going against an order.

Kevin asked about communities that are moving on and still having gatherings and having recreation league games and traveling teams.

Becky asked what communities he was referring to.

Kevin said Pittsburg, Iola, and Nevada.

Becky said that they all have quite a few cases.

Kevin said that they are continuing life. At one point do you stop life because of a few cases?

Becky said that his point of view would change as it gets closer to home. She said that she would love to get back to normal and get out and have fun with her friends and family, but she doesn’t want to be the one finding out what kind of adverse effects this could have on her child or herself. There are three hospitalizations at this time with these new cases we have. That’s something to think about.

Kevin said that with a medical background he can appreciate that. As a Commissioner in town, he listens to people in town and he listens to people in town talk about their businesses and how to keep them running.

Becky said that she heard that Via Christi is doing fairly well at this time, but she has heard that other larger hospitals in this area are not doing as well. When that changes for Via Christi, could be scary.

Kevin asked why we worry about that right now?

Becky said sure. Why wouldn’t you?

Lindsey said that you said there were three hospitalizations with our cases? Are any of those recovered?

Becky said that those are current numbers and they are in isolation.

Lindsey also asked her about LaRoche Stadium and the number 45 and how we could socially distance with two teams playing baseball. If you could use the two different teams of 45 and them being separated. If they put together a plan on how to implement this, would it be allowed. The number 45 would not be for the whole baseball park, but able to have multiple groups of 45?

Becky said that as a gathering the number is 45. Where are all these people coming from? Out of state? Arkansas? The liability is very high. 45 is a gathering with social distancing.

Lindsey said she doesn’t see where it is considered a gathering where there is a baseball field and kids are playing. She said there was a tournament in Joplin this past weekend with two teams in the stadium and then when they finished playing, they would leave and the next teams would come in.

Kevin said that he has a friend that his son plays baseball, and nothing has changed up there. He said that his sister has children that plays travel ball. They need to know now if they can’t have this tournament. This is lost revenue for the City, for the ballpark, for every restaurant, and gas station. In his opinion, as a leader of the community, he is not doing the City justice in taking this revenue away from us. We need to get up and get life going in America. If you are in a medical state that you don’t feel comfortable in being at the ball park, you should stay home. You should wear that mask. If you feel confident and healthy and want to take that risk you should.

Lindsey said that life doesn’t go back to 100% normal. We have to implement policies and procedures on how to move forward. If we don’t, then we are taking on that liability. If we can’t socially distance on a baseball field, how do we expect to start school this fall? This is not going to leave us and we need to make decisions now. If we keep shutting things down, we aren’t going to be living.

Kevin said that for this tournament there are teams coming from Emporia, McPherson, Lawrence, Topeka, and Kansas City. How far is this social distancing going to go. How about the Burke Street parade? There will be more than 45 there. How about Walmart? Is there more than 45 people there? That’s inside where a lot of disease can be trapped.

Susan said that they need to hear from Deb Needleman as this becomes a liability issue for the City.

Deb said that at this point we are talking about a specific order that is in place right now. An order is a legal directive and according to that we can’t have gatherings over 45 people including staff. If we were to have a claim because the gathering exceeded 45 people, then it would be considered illegal and our insurance would not cover something like that. Keep in mind we are talking about a specific order right now that covers through the 8th and from that perspective that is what the insurance is specific to.

Lindsey said that her question in the order where it states 45 people for a mass gathering including staff with social distancing, if we have an arena with social distancing and also three groups of that amount, is that against your order?

Kevin said it would be nice to have our insurance person here.

Lindsey said we need the interpretation of 45 from the health officer.

Becky said that the interpretation can go any way that you want, but you are still going to be held liable if there is an outbreak, whether legally or some other form. Now you are trying to pick it apart and she understands the question. When this happened in our county and people are not listening to the advise and education of public health, then she is the person that has to do that. She is doing the best of her ability and giving directives or orders to fulfill that. She said that she can be pushed and pushed, and people come to her work and come after her, and tell her that she should be answering questions, but this is what she is putting out and will stick by. You can do whatever you want or determine whatever you want, but if something were to happen, there will be a liability with it. She isn’t saying that she is trying to destroy our economy. She has to go home every night and cares about people in this community and remembers every person. No matter how much back lash she hears, she still cares about people.

Randy said that he supports her and to add clarity, 45 means 45. 45 is a gathering?

Becky said 45 is a gathering.

Kevin said that we are talking about City facilities. Does this stand for everything else in town? Parade? Ball tournament? Is this something they are going to assume the liability for? They can have it but they’re going against her recommendation.

Becky said yes.

Kevin asked if there were cases out there where cities had been sued?

Becky said that she doesn’t think so yet, but there are people just out there waiting.

Kevin asked if our City Attorney was on the line? That’s a good question for him.

Becky said that if you want to do it to go all out for it. We will stand where we stand today.

Kevin said that he appreciates her and honors her position.

Deb said that to clarify this is an order. If you act in the parameters of this order and someone were to get sick and file a claim, there would be a defense there to do that. The fact that if there’s a claim outside that order, that makes it an illegal situation and that makes the liability of insurance will not pick up on something that is an illegal action. It would come down to where the attorneys come down to defend, but could be considered illegal activity.

Becky said that there are people in this community that have gone out of here knowing that they are positive and that is a major problem. She is trying to avoid any further problems like this.

Randy asked Tom Robertson and Chasity Ware if they have looked at their structures to see if they could operate within the 45 person capacity. He got an email from the swim team that they can divide up their practice times and have less than 40. Should we open the pool? Can you shuffle the kids out in two hour groups? He said that we are trying to legislate social responsibility and that’s what making this so difficult. We have an order for 45 people for a gathering. We have an expanding COVID number in our community. He hears this side that says if they get sick, they get sick. We are trying to keep our businesses open in town, and it continues to grow, instead of adding restrictions, we will end up closing and shutting down our businesses again. That is what concerns him. If we don’t put out the fire and it grows and no one knows if that will happen, he will recommend following this. Her order of 45 people. Is there a way for us to open? Can you limit the amount of people at the ball games? Do we send the kids home to their grandparents? No one here wants to shut down the community. This order is reasonable. We don’t want to be Houston or one of those places.

Tom Robertson said that on behalf of the Recreation Commission, that their board met yesterday. They decided to cancel any camps and classes they had planned. On behalf of the ball leagues, they will wait until July 9th and then pick up where they left off at until the end of the month. If they end up canceling the rest of the games, they will, but for now they are still scheduled.

Chasity Ware asked Becky with Governor Kelly’s plan with going to masks on Friday, if she sees the County as adopting and enforcing it. She said that through the Kansas Parks and Rec Department, they are still being told that as lifeguards, masks are not required nor is social distancing. She said they will do whatever they need to keep the facility open. If Bourbon County is going to adopt this face mask, how that will look to our patrons that come to the pool. She also asked if she had any idea if this order would be extended past July 8th. If this order is going to be extended, she isn’t sure that they were willing to tackle the 28 people along with employees into the pool every day.

Becky said that she has not seen the orders. She listened to her yesterday and saw the press release but has no official order and doesn’t think it will come out till Thursday. It says that most Kansans will wear masks beginning July 3rd. It says that most Kansans will wear masks in public places as well as outside and in stores and shops and restaurants and where social distancing cannot be maintained. It doesn’t say specifics and she doesn’t have any Frequently Asked Questions. She would like to recommend to follow her order.

Lindsey said that the Bourbon County Commission can override her order. In this case it would be the Public Health Officer.

Randy said that the other half of her question was if the order would be extended past July 8th?

Becky said she couldn’t answer that.

JoLynne asked if there was any way to prep for any activities that are going on?

Lindsey asked if the Rec Commission would put limitations for 45 people?

Kevin said that there are so many variables and many things we don’t know. A lot of these big companies have 300 people. They aren’t limited to 45 people. You can’t police this situation. He thinks we should walk lightly especially with this mask situation. If it comes down to our decision as a City, he doesn’t feel comfortable with this.

Pete said that we need a definition of a gathering. He has watched sports all his life and saw many gatherings. A gathering of the outfielders which was three. A gathering of the mound to get strategies which could be five. A gathering at the dugout could be 25 players. What is a gathering? The City of Fort Scott at 7,800 could be defined as a gathering. There is no clear cut definition and what the order states. He feels that a gathering of one team at a dugout and another team at another dugout, there could be many gatherings at one location. They could be less than 45. It’s hard to put a number on what is a gathering. How is this defined? What about the fair? There is a gathering at the horses. There is a gathering at the hogs. The overall function could be 1,000 people.

Kevin asked who enforces the gathering?

Lindsey said that it is an order, but would be considered a misdemeanor.

Kevin asked if Chief Shelton if he was ready to write tickets for gatherings over 45 people in a group?

Travis said that he doesn’t understand this either. Everything is up for interpretation. As a police officer, it is black and white.

Kevin said that he thinks you would have trouble suing the City of Fort Scott for being in violation of 45 people. There will be people out there that violate this. What about the golf course? Will it be restricted to 45 people? You have to include all the employees out there.

Pete said that there could be a gathering on every hole.

Deb said that it depends on the definition.

Lindsey said that the definition is up for interpretation. What is covered in the insurance company’s eyes?

Deb said that it would come down to what that interpretation is from whoever placed the order.

Susan said what complicates this order is that it states 6’ social distancing. It’s hard to social distance in a dugout.

Lindsey asked if we were going off the Governor’s order?

Susan said it is off the Public Health Officer’s order.

Randy asked if a motion needed made? He said as far as the golf course, by common sense a gathering is when people are clustered together. There are four to five in golf wandering all over the place. There are growing cases in the community and we have a recommendation about this.

Randy moved that we follow her continued recommendations not to exceed 45 and to continue social distancing, and let the pool and Buck Run, and LaRoche legislate social responsibility until July 8th. His motion died for lack of a second.

Kevin Allen asked about the City meetings.

Randy said that is the next item. He believes that everyone should wear a mask. He’s had people reach out to him.

Kevin said he would make a motion for people to practice safe distancing and to continue on until we receive more information from the Governor. If Tom wants to continue games, he can. If the pool wants to start up, they can. Be safe and practice social distancing. If the ball tournament wants to occur, they can. He wants the town to move on, until there is a law that states otherwise.

Lindsey said that the City can’t supersede her order. If the ball tournament has liability insurance, they are taking that liability on. They can make a plan on how to proceed with social distancing. With Buck Run and the pool, her understanding from yesterday is different than today.

Susan said that this discussion needs to be specific. She needs to know if we can open up the Pool, Buck Run, the Golf Course and allow 45 people and abide by her order? She needs specific direction.

Kevin asked the Clerk to read his motion.

Diane said that Kevin’s motion is to continue to practice safe distancing, and to continue until more information is available from the Governor, and to practice safe distancing for the pool and Buck Run until July 8th when the Governor’s order ends. Pete Allen seconded. Kevin Allen and Pete Allen voted yes. Randy Nichols, Lindsey Watts, and JoLynne Mitchell voted no. Motion denied. 3-2.

Lindsey Watts made a more specific motion per City entity. She asked if Parks were included? Buck Run, LaRoche, Pool?

Lindsey said that we are not practicing social distancing at the Parks.

Susan said that the shelter houses at the Parks needs to be their focus.

Lindsey made a motion to let the public know when they rent a shelter house at Gunn Park they should keep their number at 45 or under. Randy seconded. Pete Allen, Randy Nichols, Lindsey Watts, and JoLynne Mitchell voted aye. Kevin Allen voted no.

APPROVED TO LET THE PUBLIC KNOW WHEN THEY RENT A SHELTER AT GUNN PARK TO KEEP THEIR GROUP AT A NUMBER OF 45 OR UNDER UNTIL JULY 8TH, 2020.

Lindsey made a motion for Buck Run to allow no more than 45 individuals at Buck Run Community Center including staff until July 8th, 2020. Kevin Allen seconded.

Tom said that they don’t have 45 people in the weight room. He said that they can control the amount of 45 at the facility and not have a lot to have to ask to leave.

Roll call was taken. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOW BUCK RUN COMMUNITY CENTER TO OPEN TO ALLOW NO MORE THAN 45 INDIVIDUALS INCLUDING STAFF UNTIL JULY 8TH, 2020.

JoLynne asked Chasity if she was comfortable with the number of 45 at the pool.

Chasity said that the patrons need to understand that there will be different guidelines and they need to trust her judgement to make these decisions.

Susan said that some concerns will be the cost which is not something to be voted on today.

Dave Bruner said that when time frames are looked at, they will set aside time to spray everything down. The chemical takes 10 minutes to activate.

Lindsey made a motion to open the pool under the restrictions needed to allow 45 individuals including staff until July 8th, 2020. Randy seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOW THE AQUATIC CENTER TO OPEN ON JULY 1st, 2020 TO ALLOW NO MORE THAN 45 INDIVIDUALS INCLUDING STAFF UNTIL JULY 8TH, 2020 WITH NEW GUIDELINES IN PLACE.

Randy moved to keep the golf course open but not to allow tournaments at this time until July 8th, 2020. Lindsey seconded. Pete Allen, Randy Nichols, Lindsey Watts, and JoLynne Mitchell voted aye. Kevin Allen abstained. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED to keep the golf course open but not to allow tournaments at this time until July 8th, 2020.

kevin moved to allow LaRoche Stadium to open and have their tournament this coming weekend and to encourage social distancing.

Deb said that for an event they purchase their own even insurance so this would fall under their own insurance.

Chasity said that Chase Brown is very good at spraying down the facilities and restrooms continually.

Randy offered an amendment that we acknowledge that there is a 45 person limit gathering.

Kevin said that he approves that amendment with his motion. Lindsey seconded his motion and the amendment. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOW LAROCHE STADIUM TO OPEN AND HAVE THE TOURNAMENT THIS WEEKEND, BUT TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE IS A 45 PERSON GATHERING LIMIT, AND TO ENCOURAGE SOCIAL DISTANCING.

Kevin asked about property at the lake especially the beach area.

Pete asked about the fireworks display. He asked if the City sponsored it?

Susan said that the City gives a donation to the fireworks. We do not put it on.

Pete said that there is a gathering still.

Susan said that the City talked to Becky about this before. She said if there was social distancing going on, and people and family members stayed together, it should be fine.

Randy said that they are using College facilities and that is not our’s to regulate. He doesn’t think we can control that.

Dave said that they can put up social distancing signs up to remind people.

Kevin asked about the beach at the lake. He said that people use the beach at the lake and we should leave it alone.

Discussion was also held regarding the Bourbon County Rodeo.

The Rodeo is put on by the Fair Board and not the City.

  1. Discussion of opening City Commission meetings and the COVID-19

Lindsey asked if it was legal for us to ask citizens to sign up beforehand and then come and speak and leave.

Kevin asked if it could be held at a different place than here.

Susan said that we have committed to televising our meetings. The bandwidth is a problem at Buck Run. That will be a problem with moving the location.

Kevin asked about the college or the middle school.

JoLynne said that we need to be cautious where we go to make sure that Pete will be able to hear the meeting.

Lindsey asked if this is possible for the next meeting? Another meeting?

Randy said that we are asking a lot of Staff to move this meeting and all their equipment.

Randy moved to continue to allow the July 7th meeting to be closed to be public based on social distancing and the Public Health Officer’s order and to address it after that. JoLynne seconded. Randy Nichols and JoLynne Mitchell voted aye. Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, and Lindsey Watts voted no. Motion denied 3-2.

Kevin asked if it could be put back on facebook live like it used to be.

Susan said that there were complaints with the volume and clarity of the meeting.

Kevin asked if he could make a motion for Susan to check into the college and she could send out a message saying it could be used?

Lindsey said she would make a motion to open the meetings to the public, but to allow them to sign up by appointment for public comment but to enable social distancing. Pete Allen seconded. Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, Lindsey Watts, and JoLynne Mitchell voted aye. Randy Nichols voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

approved to open the july 7th, 2020 meeting to the public, but to allow them to sign up by appointment for public comment but to enable social distancing.

JoLynne Mitchell moved to adjourn the special meeting at 12:29 p.m. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye. Motion carried.

ADJOURNED SPECIAL MEETING AT 12:29 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on July 7th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

_____________________________________

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

FS City Commission Minutes of July 7

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes are unapproved until 7/21/2020.

Minutes of July 7, 2020 Regular Meeting #13

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held July 7th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners K. Allen, P. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Mitchell presiding.

INVOCATION: There was no invocation given.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: There was no audience in attendance other than a very few City staff. Michael J. Hoyt signed up to speak during the citizen comment section. Hazel Swarts was also present.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:

Recognition of Payden Blythe, Police Officer – Travis Shelton, Chief of Police, introduced Payden Blythe, Police Officer. He grew up in the Uniontown area and he joined our force a little over a year ago. He went to Police Academy in December of 2019. He was scheduled to graduate in March of 2020. When the COVID-19 pandemic started, the academy was shut down. They ended up graduating in June of 2020. He essentially ended up being in the longest academy in Kansas Law Enforcement history. Payden ended up finishing second runner-up in top shooter, and finished 95% in the academy and was the #1 rank in his class. Not only that, no other officer had completed that high in the last three years. This is quite the honor and accomplishment.

Introduction of Nate Stansberry, City Engineer – Deb Needleman, Human Resource Director, introduced Nate Stansberry as the new City Engineer. Deb gave his background history to the Commission. The City is excited Nate is here.

Nate thanked the City for their warm welcome he and his family have been given. He looks forward to his future with the City. He told the Commissioners he was officed in the basement of Memorial Hall and to contact him with any issues they may have.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 16th, 2020, special meeting of June 24th, 2020 and June 30th, 2020.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1266-A totaling $804,125.90.

  1. Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – March port-a-pottie fees – $2,153.00; April $1,911.00; and May $2,153.00 – Totaling $6,217.00.

  1. Request to Pay – Insco Industries – $67,937.35 – Clarifier Painting Project – Water Plant

  1. Request to Pay – Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission – $4,000.00 – Fire Truck Grant

  1. May financials

Kevin Allen left the room at 6:04 p.m. while the vote was taken since he had an item on the Consent Agenda.

Randy Nichols asked that the special meeting minutes of June 30th, 2020 be changed to reflect that he does support the wearing of face masks. The Clerk will get the minutes changed to reflect that.

Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the correction to the June 30th, 2020 minutes. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA WITH CORRECTION TO THE SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF JUNE 30TH, 2020 TO REFLECT THAT COMMISSIONER NICHOLS DOES SUPPORT THE WEARING OF FACE MASKS.

Kevin Allen returned to the meeting at 6:07 p.m.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE:

Vanessa Poyner – Junior/Senior Prom – Saturday, July 25th, 2020 – Request for Street Closures: West Oak Street from Judson to National for Walk-In event. Request for parking lot behind Brewhaus Brewery for valet parking. Time requested: 2:00 p.m. to midnight – Waivers will be signed for all attendees and social distancing will be enforced. – City Manager said that he, Chad Brown, Travis Shelton, and Dave Bruner met with Vanessa Poyner, sponsor of the Junior/Senior Prom this year. It will be held on July 25th, 2020 at the River Room. She has requested the parking lot behind Brewhaus Brewery for valet parking. She has also requested the closure of West Oak Street from Judson to National for the walk-in event. She would like these streets closed from 2:00 p.m. to midnight. She shared a copy of a waiver that each attendee and their date will be signing. Dave said that Vanessa has been in contact with Becky Johnson, Public Health Officer regarding this event.

Lindsey Watts moved to approve the street closings and use of the City parking lot. JoLynne Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

Approved to close West Oak Street from Judson to National for Walk-In event and the parking lot behind Brewhaus Brewery for valet parking. Time requested: 2:00 p.m. to midnight – July 25th, 2020 for Junior/Senior Prom.

Frank Halsey – Marmaton Massacre Escape Event – Frank Halsey informed the Commission that this event has been held the last seven (7) years. Frank has been preparing trails in the park for the last ten (10) years. They have 130 participants registered so far. He has been in contact with Becky Johnson, Public Health Officer, regarding this event to ensure they are in compliance. All registration was handled online this year. They have a 36 page guide from U.S.A. Cycling entitled Returning to Riding and Racing. This talks all about social distancing and mask wearing. He has reserved Shelter #6 and #7 this year as well as the entire campground area for this coming weekend. The race will start on Saturday. A marathon race will start at 10 a.m. It is a four hour race. The kid’s race will be held next and then time trials. A father and son group out of St. Joseph, Missouri will be here to perform bike tricks and that evening Double Trouble, which is Larry Davenport and Mark Ward will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sunday morning will start with a worship service, then a junior race, beginner race, and an advanced race. People love to come and race our course. He asked for approval for this event to be held this weekend.

Mitchell moved to approve to hold the Marmaton Massacre event and approve the use of the campground area and shelters #6 and #7 to be held July 10th and 11th, 2020. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approved to hold the Marmaton Massacre event and approve the use of the camping area and shelters #6 and #7 to be held july 10th and 11th, 2020.

discussion was held regarding the LaRoche Baseball event that couldn’t be held due to the insurance issue last weekend.

Kevin said he didn’t like that the baseball tournament was cancelled this past weekend.

Jeff Deane said that their special event insurance did not cover COVID-19 and that was the problem.

Terry Sercer – 2019 AuditMr. Sercer appeared before the Commission to present the 2019 Audit. He reminded the Commission that this is an unqualified opinion, but the highest level of opinion received. This financial statement presents fairly the aggregate cash and unencumbered cash balance for the City of Fort Scott as of December 31, 2019.

He said that the City did not have any violations with compliance with Kansas Statutes. He stated that the General Fund has a good solid balance. There are no federal or grant violations.

He stated there were no cash basis violations. There is a healthy cash balance.

He commended Susan and her staff for their assistance with the audit and is pleased that Susan is back with the City.

Watts moved to approve the 2019 Audit. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED 2019 AUDIT.

  1. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute

limit per citizen) – Michael Hoyt emailed to speak.

Michael Hoyt – Mr. Hoyt said that he had one major issue. He said that he was the sponsor of a recall petition for Commissioner Nichols and Commissioner Watts and wanted to tell them how he got to this point. For 44 plus years, he was told that Mr. Farmer had a contract with the City for legal services and was provided a fixed amount per month for calls from City staff and calls from Commissioners and this amounted to just under $3,500 per month. Our current situation does not include that. Our previously seated Commission which includes Mr. Nichols and Ms. Mitchell, and they provided you with what he feels, in his opinion, is a defective contract to provide City Attorney services. You as a single Commissioner cannot spend one dollar of public funds without a public meeting, and three votes of yes from other Commissioners. That is not provided for in the Lauber contract. It is defective in that it is a fixed hourly rate and the minute you pick up the phone, you are obligating the City to expend funds and you don’t have the right to do that. Now the last Commission signed that contract and, if you recall, when they inducted the three of you, they left here like something was going to get stuck to the bottom of their shoe, they left here so fast. We need to review how we are providing or obtaining City Attorney counsel. Just to reinforce it, he read something from the Kansas League of Municipalities. They state that the compensation for a City Attorney, and he will abbreviate, the firm should be retained at an annual or monthly salary appropriate to the duties required. That’s where Mr. Farmer took care of it in his $3,500 per month. The last regular meeting, when Commissioner Allen asked the question, “I can call you at any time”? and he said, “Yes”, that’s not true. You would have been in violation of misuse of public funds if you would have called him, and incurred an obligation by the City, in his opinion. As he works through the sufficiency of the petition for recall, those issues are going to come up. It’s an ongoing problem and we need to fix it.

Kevin Allen said that he had a question, and this is not loaded. He asked the City Attorney if there was any truth to that. Can we or can we not call you at any time? He understands the point he is making is that the clock starts when we call him for advice. Is this something we should be running through the City Manager, and he needs to make the decision to call you? He understands that point that if we all start calling you, the clock starts ticking.

Jeff Deane said that this is the first he has heard from Mr. Hoyt of these allegations of this regard. This is a standard contract set by up the K.B.A. that they worked through – Kansas Bar Association. That is how they handle all of their clients and how every attorney works. He thinks that he is referring that if you are going to hire an in-house attorney, you are hiring for a fixed rate or hourly. If you go outside, it is just like contracting for anything else. We are the City’s legal department, and you are allowed to contact us at any time for any reason. If you check the bills, you will find some things that are “comped” the City from time to time, and he’s talked to you (Skitch) before, and there are things we do that we don’t write down, because you’ve asked me not to. It’s the same with Commissioner Watts as she had a couple of questions about looking at the bills before and cutting things out and not everything gets billed. Some stuff is just done. He tries to only charge what is needed to be charged.

City Manager asked if the recall vote was for Nichols and Watts?

Mr. Hoyt said yes.

City Manager asked about Mitchell?

Mr. Hoyt said that she was on the previously seated Commission.

City Manager said that she approved the first contract.

Mr. Hoyt said the first contract with Lauber.

City Manager asked why Watts was being pulled in?

Mr. Hoyt said she incurred expenses obligated to the City without approval. She spent more than one dollar without a public meeting.

City Manager asked because she called the City Attorney?

Mr. Hoyt said that was correct.

Lindsey Watts said that for public record that all of her conversations started out of a public meeting, or a meeting if it was in reference to the Code of Conduct or Code of Ethics that was brought up during or after a meeting. This would be during the time that you don’t charge for it.

Mr. Hoyt said that he would like to remind her of her last statement at the last meeting when she said that she met with Mr. Deane before the meeting and you must have arranged for him to arrive before the meeting.

Lindsey said he actually comes before the meeting for most of the day.

Jeff Deane said that he is usually here for the entire day at least once a month. He’s here in general for whatever meetings he needs to be here for.

Mr. Hoyt asked if we were paying him for the entire day?

Jeff said only for the time he has meetings. He said he would say, for the record, that that every Commissioner here with the exception of Pete Allen, he has had discussions with on the clock for the City while not in a meeting.

Mr. Hoyt said unfortunately you are restricted by law that he can only recall two commissioners at a time because you couldn’t seat a quorum, and they were the lucky winners.

City Manager asked if he had heard from the County Attorney if this is valid?

Mr. Hoyt said he is working through the sufficiency.

City Manager asked if she had responded back to him.

Mr. Hoyt said no.

Kevin Allen said he doesn’t know when he would have called unless it was about that one thing that went down.

Jeff said that we had a meeting in this room, so yes, you are thinking of the correct thing.

Kevin said that he didn’t ask for that.

Jeff said true but that is part of the legal counsel for the City.

Kevin said he wanted to make it clear that he hasn’t called him.

Jeff said that you have called him on his cell phone at his house. He said they talked about that same issue. It was a follow-up to the meeting here.

Kevin said he did do that. That was probably a two minute conversation. He said he wanted to clear the air. He didn’t want whoever to think he was calling all the time.

Mr. Hoyt said on the bill last month it did include a meeting Ms. Watts had prior to the meeting. Those were billable hours that were put on the bill and obligated to the City without a meeting and without three votes of yes.

Lindsey said that what they need to figure out is if this claim, what she doesn’t understand, is having a contracted attorney versus an in-house attorney. She has been looking into this with City staff on this issue.

Kevin said that also on that same note, when Bob was the City Attorney, he doesn’t remember exactly, he had a monthly fee.

Mr. Hoyt said he had an additional billable rate plus an IRB rate.

Kevin said that he would have to ask Susan about that.

Mr. Hoyt said he was well versed in his contract. He said he would disagree with in house or out of house counsel. The League of Kansas Municipalities does not differentiate between in house or out of house counsel. And if you keep claiming to be the lead of the City’s legal department, you are fogging the lines of what is in-house and out of house.

Jeff said that the City has clearly contracted with us to be the firm which provides the legal department for the City.

Mr. Hoyt said but out of house counsel.

Jeff said yes and if he was in house he would get a salary and benefits. There is no limit on the amount of charges.

Pete asked if we were talking dollars to dollars or is there any idea from what we had to what we have now?

Mr. Hoyt said that we started out the year with a budget of $30,000 and we are over $100,000. Prior to this was what?

Lindsey said about $52,000 in a six month period.

Mr. Hoyt said that he can’t speak to what the IRB amount that the Farmer firm received.

Lindsey said that she had asked City staff and there is quite a difference between Bob Farmer and Lauber Law Firm. It shows $91,000 for Lauber and around $52,000 for Farmer Law Firm. She could throw some more numbers out there but she was wanting to wait until the next meeting.

Mr. Hoyt said that he would like to see the risk assessment that was provided by the Lauber firm during the conversation with the prior seated Commission. He found no record of that with his K.O.R.A. request response that any dollar amounts were assigned to those risk assessments, and no approvals were made.

Lindsey asked if this was something that was done.

Jeff said that this was covered by attorney/client privileges if there was such communication it wouldn’t be discussed.

Mr. Hoyt said when you directed Commissioner Nichols that all he had to do was direct you to complete the project for the Ethics and Codes you had already received prior approval for this amount?

Jeff said that the firm was appointed as the legal partner for the City. They identified the need and the direction of the City governing body took action on that need.

Mr. Hoyt said so there was a dollar amount assigned?

Jeff said that they were assigned to do the project.

Mr. Hoyt said so you more or less gave them a blank check or they gave you a blank check to complete that project. He can almost guarantee you that he could go out and survey 6,999 electors of this City and not one of them would put Code of Ethics and Parliamentary Procedures in the top ten things they want to see the City spend money on.

Jeff said that it was irrelevant at this time.

Mayor said it was time to move on.

  1. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Pool Discussion – Consideration of fees – Susan said that she has asked Chasity Ware to come and talk to them. If the order is not lifted tomorrow by the Public Health Officer, some decisions need to be made.

Chasity Ware said that she wanted to thank Josh Jones and Erin Vann and others who donated funds for the first re-opening week at the pool. These funds allowed patrons to swim at no cost. The employees at the pool are ecstatic to be back to work. After the last special meeting we were not allowed at that time to change the hourly fee or the time frame, and some people were very upset about that. Those restrictions put a massive loss on the revenue at the pool. There are some things we need to look at. If the order is not lifted, she suggested changing the entry fee to $1.00 and leave it at one hour swim times; leave at $2.00 entry fee and go to a two hour swim time, or close the pool until the order is lifted. Currently we are only allowing 30 patrons along with 11 employees and they can swim for 55 minutes and then they leave and they spray everything down which takes about 8 minutes and then patrons are allowed back in.

City Manager said that the Public Health Officer does not intend to extend her order past Wednesday. If the Commission will approve, the recommendation is to charge a $2.00 entry fee and allow swim time of two hours. On July 8th, she should be able to go back to normal with 200 in limitation.

Nichols moved to charge the $2.00 entry fee and allow a swim time of two hours for the aquatic center until the order is lifted. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

Approved to charge the $2.00 entry fee and allow a swim time of two hours for the aquatic center until the order is lifted.

  1. Consideration of Financial Policy – Susan said that this financial policy was shared with the Commission about a month ago for them to review. She has made some recommended changes for them to review.

Nichols moved to recommend the Financial Policy. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED FINANCIAL POLICY FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT.

  1. Consideration of Work Order #9 – Olsson Associates – Fort Scott Municipal Airport – Environmental Assessment – Susan said that this work order is a contract to move forward with the environmental at the Airport for the runway expansion project. This will include holding a public hearing with public involvement and keep this project moving forward. This work order is for $42,845 but is funded mostly with a KAIP Grant and the City’s amount is $2,255.00 which has been budgeted.

Watts moved to approve the Work Order #9 at the City’s cost of $2,255.00 for the Airport Expansion Project with Olsson Associates. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approved the Work Order #9 at the City’s cost of $2,255.00 for the Airport Expansion Project with Olsson Associates.

  1. Consideration of Change Order #10 – River Intake Project – Increase of $24,950.00 – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, said that Phase I has been completed on this project. This change order is for an addition of $24,950 for work on the River Intake Project. This project is previously funded by U.S.D.A. loan temporary notes.

Watts moved to approve Change Order #10 for the River Intake Project in the additional amount of $24,950. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approve Change Order #10 for the River Intake Project in the additional amount of $24,950.

  1. Consideration of City Auctioneer Bid – Dave Martin, City Manager, said that the City received two bids to sell the City property. One is from Gov Deals.com and the other is from Lance Anderson, who is a local auctioneer. His bid is 5% plus advertising. The Gov Deals.com is no cost to the City and the buyer pays all fees.

Discussion was held regarding local versus out of town bids.

Discussion was also held what to do with the funds from the sale of these two properties.

Susan said the funds need to go back into the General Fund due to the unknown with the COVID-19.

Nichols moved to approve to accept the local auctioneer bid from Lance Anderson for the sale of the two City properties. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

approved to accept the local auctioneer bid from Lance Anderson for the sale of the two City properties. this bid is 5% plus advertising.

  1. Consideration to pay Ace Pipeline – Jeff Deane, City Attorney, asked that an Executive Session be held before this item is discussed.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

Jeff asked that the City Commission recess into Executive Session. The subject matter of the recess is the discussion of the Ace Pipe Cleaning bill and legal liability stemming therefrom. The statutory justification for the recess is K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) – consultation with the City Attorney on matters that would be deemed privileged in the attorney/client relationship. The executive session will be for 10 minutes and include the City Commission and City Attorney. The open meeting will resume at 7:32 p.m.

Watts moved to go into Executive Session. Nichols seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

Recessed into Executive Session at 7:22 p.m.

Watts moved to return to open meeting at 7:32 p.m. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

Resumed open meeting at 7:32 p.m.

Pete Allen left the meeting at 7:34 p.m.

Watts moved to approve the retainage payment to Ace Pipe Cleaning in the amount of $5,430.85. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen voted no. Motioned carried 3-1.

approve the retainage payment to Ace Pipe Cleaning in the amount of $5,430.85.

Jeff said that there was another issue raised by Commissioner Pete Allen and he now has direction on that. Pete is not here now and he asked if the Commission wanted the update on that in Executive Session. He can’t say what the matter is.

Jeff asked that the City Commission recess into Executive Session. The subject matter of the recess is the discussion of confidential and privileged matters and a legal opinion as requested by Commissioner Pete Allen. The statutory justification for the recess is K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) – consultation with the City Attorney on matters that would be deemed privileged in the attorney/client relationship. The executive session will be for 10 minutes and include the City Commission, City Manager, and City Attorney. The open meeting will resume at 7:49 p.m.

Nichols moved to go into Executive Session. Mitchell seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. Motion carried.

Recessed into Executive Session at 7:39 p.m.

K. Allen moved to return to open meeting at 7:49 p.m. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

Resumed open meeting at 7:49 p.m.

  1. Discussion of First Source Lease – City Manager asked that this item be tabled at this time.

  1. Consideration to remove some of the tree line near Hole #13 at Woodland Hills Golf Course – Allyson Turvey, Tourism/Community Development Director, informed the Commission that some new property owners have purchased property next to the Golf Course. This property sets between 205th Street and Hole #13. He wants to remove some of the tree line near Hole #13. This would come at the expense of the new property owner and would be overseen by Doug Guns, Golf Course Superintendent.

Kevin asked if the property owners in the area had been notified. He knows that Greg King lives right in that area and wondered if he had been contacted.

Ally said that she was not sure about that. The Golf Course Advisory Board did meet on this and approved the tree removal.

K. Allen moved to approve the tree removal provided that Greg King was in approval with this also. He will talk to Greg King. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE TREE REMOVAL BY HOLE #13 AT WOODLAND HILLS GOLF COURSE BY THE NEW PROPERTY OWNERS AND OVERSEEN BY DOUG GUNS. KEVIN ALLEN WILL ALSO NOTIFY GREG KING TO SECURE HIS APPROVAL.

  1. Consideration to purchase used fairway mower – Golf Course – Doug Guns, Golf Course Superintendent, asked permission to approve the purchase of a used fairway mower. He secured quotes and asked approval to spend up to $25,000 for a used mower. Doug said that a fairway mower is a specific mower and there are no local vendors that sell golf equipment. He received quotes but is unsure if any of these quotes are still valid. This mower will also be used at LaRoche ballfield. The current mower is about 20 years old and has about 3,000 operating hours on it. He said that the current mower is down, and he is waiting on parts for it. They are getting hard to obtain. Once repaired, it will be moved to LaRoche Stadium to use there.

Nichols moved to approve to spend up to $25,000 on a used fairway mower for the Golf Course. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO SPEND UP TO $25,000 ON A USED FAIRWAY MOWER FOR THE GOLF COURSE.

  1. Consideration to purchase Cushman Utility Cart for Golf Course and sign a four year lease for 30 gas 2020 golf carts from KGT – Shannon O’Neil, Golf Pro Manager, informed the Commission that the current golf carts that the City has leased will expire at the end of February 2021. The City leases 30 gas golf carts. These were leased from Clear Creek of Springfield, Missouri. Carts can only be leased from a licensed golf cart distributor and there are three major licensed companies: Yamaha, Club Car, and EZO Go. Four years ago, we leased from Clear Creek with the Club Car brand. He secured quotes and contacted the three distributors again to start the process. Yamaha did not bid as they did not feel like they could be competitive. Clear Creek and Kansas Golf and Turf both submitted quotes for a four year lease and 30 carts. He asked for windshields to be put on the carts as that was requested by the golfers. Kansas Golf and Turf also quoted us a purchase option for a used utility vehicle that Doug Guns could use on the course. He and Susan went over the two proposals. The Kansas Golf and Turf proposal provided more options at a lesser price. His recommendation is to approve the Kansas Golf and Turf proposal at an annual cost of $16,359.40 annually. The used utility golf cart is a Cushman hauler and the cost is $6,379.00.

Doug said that none of the local vendors had a golf utility hauler to choose from. The hauler he is using now is a 2006 hauler and will still be used until it is out of service.

Watts moved to approve the Kansas Golf and Turf lease for four years at an annual cost of $16,359.40 and the purchase of the used utility golf cart hauler at $6,379.00. Nichols. All voted aye.

approved the Kansas Golf and Turf lease for four years at an annual cost of $16,359.40 and the purchase of the used utility golf cart hauler at $6,379.00. The lease will include 30 EZO GO golf carts.

  1. Discussion of B.C.E.D.C.I. board activities (Pete Allen) – City Manager said since Pete was not at the meeting and he had asked for this item to be placed on the agenda, it could be tabled.

Nichols moved to table the B.C.E.D.C.I. discussion. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen abstained. Motion carried 3-1.

TABLED B.C.E.D.C.I. DISCUSSION AT THIS TIME.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

  1. Director Updates: None

B. City Commission:

Lindsey Watts – Nothing to report.

Randy Nichols Randy said that he has had multiple emails begging us to emphasize the importance of mask use in close spaces as well as outdoors when you can’t social distance. He wants to reinforce this to the community. It is an important thing and a social obligation to each other and if we don’t do it, we’re going to be running into this same issue over and over again about restricted numbers at meetings, and/or if we get acceleration of cases closing businesses again, and all the things we are seeing all over the country. Please don’t think this has gone away. People may think, if I get it, okay, I get it, but that’s not the problem. If that’s what you want to risk, that’s fine, but risking everybody’s else goes along with that. That’s the emails he has been getting and he certainly agrees with it, but just wants to say that mask wearing really is very important.

Kevin Allen Kevin said that he remembers back when he was on the board years ago that the State of Kansas gave the opportunity for cities to decide to sell alcohol on Sundays and holidays. He said that we miss a lot of revenue off of this. We missed two days of revenue this past weekend and people getting on the highway to go to Missouri to buy alcohol. How do we go about looking at this again?

City Manager said that he has talked to numerous retailers and encouraged them to ask for the Commission to either vote it in or put it on the ballot. The previous Commission, when it came before them, decided to put it on the ballot. It was defeated by the community at the vote. He said that Don at Don’s Spirits has a document to bring before the Commission.

Jeff Deane said that the fact that it went to a vote of the people before, it would be safer to take it back to a vote of the people.

His next item was the baseball tournament and it being shut down. He said that he wished we could, in the future, had that tournament and filled the hotels and restaurants. Golf tournaments and a parade was held, but he feels the tournament could have been held also.

City Manager said it was because of the Public Health order and the City’s insurance. They would not be a party to the tournament as they could not secure insurance for COVID.

Lindsey said they chose to cancel their 5K race they were going to have at Gunn Park due to the Public Health Officer’s mandates.

Kevin said that his last item was to have an Executive Session to discuss non-elected personnel.

Jeff asked that the City Commission recess into Executive Session. The subject matter of the recess is the discussion of non-elected personnel as requested by Commissioner Kevin Allen. The statutory justification for the recess is K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1) – discussion of non-elected personnel. The subject matter is a facebook post. The executive session will be for 10 minutes and include the City Commission, City Manager, City Attorney, and Chief of Police. The open meeting will resume at 8:41 p.m.

Nichols moved to go into Executive Session. Mitchell seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. Motion carried.

Recessed into Executive Session at 8:31 p.m.

L. Watts moved to return to open meeting at 8:42 p.m. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

Resumed open meeting at 8:42 p.m.

Kevin asked for 10 more minutes for an Executive Session to discuss non-elected personnel.

Jeff asked that the City Commission recess into Executive Session. The subject matter of the recess is the discussion of non-elected personnel as requested by Commissioner Kevin Allen. The statutory justification for the recess is K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1) – discussion of non-elected personnel. The subject matter is a facebook post. The executive session will be for 10 minutes and include the City Commission, City Manager, City Attorney, and Chief of Police. The open meeting will resume at 8:54 p.m.

K. Allen moved to go into Executive Session. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. Motion carried.

Recessed into Executive Session at 8:44 p.m.

L. Watts moved to return to open meeting at 8:54 p.m. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

Resumed open meeting at 8:54 p.m.

Pete Allen Not present.

JoLynne Mitchell Nothing to report.

C. City Attorney: Nothing to report.

D. City Manager: Nothing to report.

ADJOURNMENT:

R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:54 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:54 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on July 21st, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

Julie Saker: Candidate for Bourbon County Sheriff

Julie Saker. Submitted photo.

This is part of a series of features on the candidates running for offices in Bourbon County.  The Bourbon County Primary Election will be held, Tuesday, August 4, 2020.

Monday, July 20, is the candidate forum at Ellis Fine Arts Center, on the campus of Fort Scott Community College, 2108 S. Horton.  Doors open at 5:30  p.m. for a meet and greet with candidates. The forum starts at 6 p.m. in the order of federal, state, then local  candidates.

 

Julie Saker, 54, is a candidate for Bourbon County Sheriff.
She has a high school/GED and took criminal justice classes at Fort Scott Community College.
“I have no experience in law enforcement,” Saker said. “But I have supervised/management experience. Twenty-five plus years in business.”
She has lived in Bourbon County for 30 years, she said.

What skills do you bring to the position if elected?

“Just be a good role model for my employees and the community.”
What is your priority on day one?
“To get acquainted with the staff and just keep learning as I go.”

The following is information provided on the Bourbon County Kansas website.

Not sure if you’re registered to vote or where to vote?

You may register to vote online, through the Kansas Secretary of State’s website.

Check your voter registration status, the location of your polling place and view a sample ballot at VoterView by the Secretary of State.

Advance Voting is available prior to each election.  You may advance vote in one of two ways:  By mail, by filing an application for a ballot to be mailed to you   OR   in-person, beginning at least one week prior to any election.