Monthly Archives: September 2021

Bourbon County, Business

Jayhawk Wind Farm Update: On Track For Completion This Year

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Submitted photo by Apex Clean Energy. A crane stands next to a Jayhawk Wind turbine.

The Jayhawk Wind energy project workers are currently constructing the wind turbines in Bourbon and Crawford counties, with a completion date expected in late 2021.

Submitted photo. A crane next to a wind turbine in Bourbon County.

The following questions were answered by Patrick Chilton, Apex Public Engagement Manager, Apex Clean Energy, Inc., Charlottesville, VA

Where are the currently completed wind turbines located?

We have erected six turbines so far. Four are in the southwest corner of the project, in Crawford County, and two in the northwest corner, in Bourbon County.

The first wind turbine in Bourbon County, located at 20th and Eagle Road in the southwest corner of the county.

What is the timeline of the project currently?

As previously expected, we are on track to complete the construction of Jayhawk Wind by December of 2021.

How many turbines will there be? What are their dimensions?

There will be 70 turbines built once construction is completed. That represents no change from the project design as permitted. These turbines are 584 feet from the base to the tip of the blade at its highest point.

A Jayhawk Wind Turbine in Bourbon County from the distance.

How many employees are there?

There are more than 250 employees working on the various elements of construction for Jayhawk Wind.

What are the contractors’ names and where are they from?

IEA is the Balance of Plant (BOP) contractor for Jayhawk Wind, and they have many sub-contractors working with them. We don’t disclose those contractors for their proprietary reasons.

Sunset over the wind turbine at 20th and Eagle Road in Bourbon County.

Hwy. 3 from Hwy. 39 to Hwy. 47 is in pretty bad shape because of all the tear-up laying new lines, when can the public see this remedied?

While the work being done on Highways 3 and 39 is in our project area, it is not because of our construction work. The maintenance work is being done by KDOT and is happening now because of recent funding from the state.

 

 

The following is from Priscilla Peterson, Kansas Department of Transportation Public Affairs Manager, Southeast District:

KDOT replaced the crossroad pipes under K-3, and have patched the areas afterward.

Crossroad pipes are drainage structures that carry water from one side of the road to the other side.

“We replace the deteriorating pipes as needed,” she said. “If a pipe collapses, the roadway can no longer carry traffic or drain properly.”

 

 

Obituary

Obituary of Glenn Newcomer

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Glenn Allen Newcomer was born in Hays, KS, on August 25, 1942, to Ralph and Leila Newcomer. He passed away on Saturday, September 4th in Fort Scott. He was raised on the

family farm in Russell, KS, where he grew to love the land. This led him to Kansas State University where he majored in animal husbandry. While there, he worked at their dairy barns and was a member of the Livestock Judging Team. At the Collegiate 4-H Club, he met Carol Tiffany, and they were married on August 14,1966. Together they were blessed with two daughters.

Glenn was a member of the Air National guard for six years. He was the Bourbon County Extension Agent for 37 years retiring January 1, 2002. After retiring, he worked part time as a water quality manager at the Soil Conservation District for a few years. He was a gentle man, being completely honest and respectful of all the farmers and 4-Hers who had the privilege of working with him. Helping his daughters with their 4-H lambs, attending Rock Spring Ranch with them and teaching them photography techniques was a joy for him. He had a great time attending the school activities of his girls and grandchildren, along with following K-State Wildcat sports. He was proud to always have a green lawn free of dandelions and a plentiful garden.

Glenn was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Bourbon County Fair Board, Methodist Men, and Kiwanis. Until his health failed, he volunteered at church as part of the Wednesday morning work crew. He also loved being a part of an early morning coffee group.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and a sister. Survivors include his wife,

Carol; his daughter, Kendra Clancy (Chris); daughter, Darcy Strong (Joe); grandchildren: Rebecca, Kaylin, Amber, Tristan, Emily, Alex, Jared, and Ethan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 10th from 5-7 p.m. at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 11th at 10:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The National Fragile X Foundation, First United Methodist Church, or Bourbon County Fair Association and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Friday Night Free Concert: Stephan Moses

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Ralph Carlson introduces the Friday Night Concert musicians May 2019.

Stephan Moses will be the guest performer at this week’s Friday Night Concert. Moses is a songwriter vocalist and musician who plays guitar, banjo, and mandolin. He will perform a variety of blues and classic country.

“Formerly from Kansas City, Moses began playing music at age ten, so he’s been at this a long time,” concert-series organizer Ralph Carlson said. “Moses has a strong family heritage in music, as his grandfather played banjo, and an uncle played guitar and sang old country and blues songs. Hearing this music as a kid left a strong impression on Moses, so he threw his hat into the ring too. We appreciate him sharing his time and talent and welcome Stephan Moses to the park pavilion. Come out and join us for a great evening of music.“

The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the Heritage Park Pavilion at First and Main streets. The shows, sponsored by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, are free and open to the public. Dave Oas of Parsons serves as sound technician each week. Due to limited seating, attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be moved to the Common Ground Coffee Co., 12 E. Wall Street.

Opinion

To Vaccine or Not to Vaccine by Pastor Kevin Moyer

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Pastor Kevin Moyer. Submitted photo.

 

There’s a lot of discussion right now about the vaccine and whether a person should or shouldn’t get it.  It doesn’t take long before you find people with differing opinions, and if I’m not mistaken we’ve always valued our freedoms in America that allow us to have differences of opinions.

 

However, I do want to tell you about a virus that is much deadlier than the Coronavirus, and if you don’t get the vaccine YOU WILL ABSOLUTELY DIE.  The virus is called SIN.  We’ve all got it, according to Romans 3:23.  Sin is lawlessness (1 John 3:4), and sin is not just doing the wrong thing, but it’s failing to do what is right (James 4:17).  We can say with Paul that though we want to do the right thing, we don’t do it, and we don’t want to do the wrong thing, but we still do it (Romans 7:19).  It’s the human thing to do.  It’s the nature that we inherited from Adam (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:21,22).  Where does all of this lead to?  It leads to death.  Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death…”  Ezekiel 18:20 says, “The soul who sins is the one who will die…”  There are many other such passages that help us understand that sin=death.

There’s only one way to get around this absolute certainty:  that is to get the vaccine.  The vaccine is Jesus.  Only Jesus can save you from sin’s wage.  Only Jesus can free you from sin’s penalty.  I didn’t quote to you the whole verse from Romans 6:23 a while ago.  It says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  There are lots of other verses that teach us forgiveness is through Jesus (Ephesians 1:7; Acts 13:38,39; 1 John 1:9; 1 Timothy 2:5,6; Hebrews 10:10-14).

 

Could I encourage you to get the vaccine for your deadly virus of sin?  Say “YES” to Jesus, so that when you stand before Him He will say “YES” to you.  If you need help in knowing how to find Him, I’d love to help you.

Kevin Moyers,

Rinehart Christian Church

Government, Kansas

Kansans Encouraged to Get Flu Shot

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Governor Laura Kelly Encourages Kansans to get a Flu Shot

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly this week, after receiving her flu shot, emphasized the importance of all Kansans getting a flu shot to stay healthy and reduce the strain on Kansas hospitals.

“Increased flu-related visits to the hospital would increase strain on our hospitals, many of which are at critical capacity, or close to it,” Governor Kelly said. “I encourage all Kansans to get a flu shot to protect themselves and their communities from illness.”

Flu Facts:

  • The COVID-19 vaccine does not protect against the flu. Getting both vaccines is important to be fully vaccinated against both viruses.
  • The COVID-19 vaccine and the flu vaccine can be administered together.
  • Flu vaccinations should be received by the end of October, if possible. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating and unexpired flu vaccine is available, flu vaccinations should be given.
  • The flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu related illnesses, and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or death.
  • The same public health practices that mitigate the spread of COVID-19: mask wearing, physical distancing, avoiding crowds, and washing hands often.

“Last year we learned that the mitigation measures like social distancing, wearing masks and washing your hands helped stop the spread of influenza,” said Lee Norman, M.D., Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “Kansans should get the flu vaccine and take mitigation measures to protect themselves and their families.”

“The commonsense mitigation efforts are proven to prevent the spread of illness,” Governor Kelly said. “If we all pull together, get vaccinated, and take these practical steps to stay healthy, we can protect the health and safety of our communities and our economy.”

For information on flu prevention and where to find a flu vaccination site near you, visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website at www.kdheks.gov/flu.

This photo of Governor Kelly receiving her flu shot is available for media use.

Government, Kansas

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Shawnee County Horse

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MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health has received notification of a confirmed case of West Nile virus (WNV) in a horse in Shawnee County.

“West Nile virus is a preventable disease, and we know that annual vaccinations have proven highly effective for horses,” said Kansas Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith. “Unfortunately, the infected animal had not been vaccinated for this virus. We strongly encourage all horse owners to consult with your local veterinarian and make a vaccination plan for your horses.”

WNV is a virus that can infect humans, horses, birds and other species. Horses infected with WNV can have symptoms that range from depression, loss of appetite and fever to severe neurologic signs such as incoordination, weakness, inability to rise, and hypersensitivity to touch or sound. WNV can be fatal in horses. If you see symptoms of WNV in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The virus is carried and transmitted by mosquitoes; although both horses and humans are susceptible, it is not directly contagious from horse to horse or from horse to human. Horse owners should work diligently to reduce the mosquito populations and their possible breeding areas, including removing stagnant water sources and using mosquito repellents. WNV is a reportable disease in Kansas, which means the law requires any confirmed case must be reported to the KDA Division of Animal Health.

For more information about West Nile virus or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA Division of Animal Health website at www.agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalDiseases. Information about WNV risk for humans can be found on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website at www.kdheks.gov/epi/arboviral_disease.htm.

Fort Scott, Government

FS Commission Minutes of August 17

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of August 17, 2021 Regular Meeting #16

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held August 17th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

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

INVOCATION:, Diane Clay, City Clerk, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Susan Bancroft, Brenda Iverson, Canton Dean, Jimmy Kemmerer, Logan Woods, Tim VanHoecke, Cheryl VanHoecke, Jennifer LaRoche, Jason Marbery, Brad Matkin, Seth Needham, Pete Owenby, Jesse Pohlmann, Lindsay Madison, Rob Harrington, Jackson Tough, Jason Dickman, Michael Hoyt, Lynette Westhoff, and Bill Martin.

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA: Josh Jones asked under Appearance that Rob Harrington be added.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July 6th, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1294-A totaling $598,879,75.

  1. Request to Pay – American Wrecking Services, LLC – Eagle Block Building – $81,675.00

  1. Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc. – $9,470.39 – River Intake Project

  1. Amending of Resolution Numbers:

8-2021 to 18-2021 (14 S Margrave – Dangerous & Unsafe Resolution)

  1. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering

Building Inspection – $4,791.88

Building Inspection (Peter Earles) – $1,669.50

3rd Street Sewer Project – $2,306.00

City Engineer – $4,000.00

Public Works Director – $4,717.50

Wastewater Treatment Plant – $7,288.00

Re-Route Manhole #148 Proposal – $5,000.00

  1. Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer $1,825.50

  1. July Financials

R. Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Jones voted aye. P. Allen voted no. K. Allen abstained. Motion carried 3-1-1.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion) – None

Engineering Firm Update: Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, Inc., informed the Commission that he checked into the location of 17th and Eddy and 15th and National. He will review this and discuss at the next meeting.

Interim City Manager Report and Comments: Mark McCoy, Interim City Manager, said that the K.D.O.T. permit for Highway 69 and 12th Street has been applied for.

APPEARANCES:

Brenda Iverson – Consideration of Boy Scout Request – Ms. Iverson said that Boy Scout Troop 114 is having a recruitment event on August 28th. They could like to use 2nd Street Park and shoot BB guns and bows and arrows. It is City property so she asked for the Commission’s approval.

City Attorney said that it is a safety issue but if the Chief of Police has no issues, he is fine with it also.

Chief Shelton said that they have allowed this before. The Scouts will make sure there are safety precautions in place.

Seth Needham asked if they could get a port-a-potty at the location on the day of the event.

K. Allen said if the City does not provide one, he will bring one out.

K. Allen made a motion to allow the Boy Scout Troop 114 to use 2nd Street Park to hold their event and work with Chief Shelton on this. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOW THE BOY SCOUT TROOP 114 TO USE 2ND STREET PARK TO HOLD THEIR EVENT ON AUGUST 28TH AND WORK WITH CHIEF SHELTON ON THIS.

Rob Harrington – Rob said that he went into McDonald Hall to show the building to a prospective buyer. The building is in terrible condition. He encouraged the City to work to acquire this building so it doesn’t end up like the Eagle Block building.

Public Hearings: None

Director Reports: None

Old Business:

  1. Resolution 21-2021 for Sale of Lake Fort Scott Property Proceeds – City Attorney said that this is the resolution for the sale of the Lake Fort Scott properties. This would put all proceeds into a Lake Fort Scott fund. He said that the resolution could be approved or amended as they see fit.

R. Nichols said that he thinks this resolution is too restrictive. He said that there are lots of needs in our community that need funded also. He said that our streets need funding, economic development needs funding as well as health care. He doesn’t want to see all these funds put into one fund where they can’t be moved or used. He mentioned possibly putting a percentage of the sales in this fund.

K. Allen said that the lake is a public place and we need to fund improvements for the lake.

Discussion was held between the Commissioners about the fund and a percentage they would like to see placed in the lake fund.

R. Nichols moved to table this and have the City Attorney rework the resolution. The motion died for lack of a second.

L. Watts moved to approve Resolution No. 21-2021 creating the Lake Fort Scott fund. J. Jones seconded. L. Watts and J. Jones voted aye. K. Allen, P. Allen, and R. Nichols voted no. Motion denied 2-3.

DENIED MOTION TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NO. 21-2021 CREATING THE LAKE FORT SCOTT FUND.

K. Allen move to allow the sale of the first four lots to go to the Lake Improvement Fund and have the City Attorney rework the resolution. P. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, L. Watts, and J. Jones voted aye. R. Nichols voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

approved to allow the sale of the first four lots to go to the Lake Improvement Fund and have the City Attorney rework the resolution.

New Business:

  1. Consideration of Supplemental Bond Agreement No. 1 amending a certain bond agreement for the 2015 Industrial Revenue Bond for Bourbon County Assisted Living Project and approving Resolution No. 20-2021 – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, informed the Commission that Gilmore and Bell, the City’s bond company, submitted the Supplemental Bond Agreement #1 and Resolution as the Bourbon County Assisting Living Project is looking to refinance their bonds. Approval of the agreement and the resolution is needed.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Supplemental Bond Agreement No. 1 and Resolution 20-2021 for the 2015 Industrial Revenue Bonds for Bourbon County Assisted Living Project. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED SUPPLEMENTAL BOND AGREEMENT #1 AND RESOLUTION NO. 20-2021 OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS APPROVING THE FORM OF SUPPLEMENTAL BOND AGREEMENT NO. 1, AMENDING AND SUPPLEMENTING A CERTAIN BOND AGREEMENT ENTERED INTO IN CONNECTION WITH THE ISSURANCE BY THE CITY OF ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2015-A AND SERIES 2015-B (BOURBON COUNTY ASSISTED LIVING PROJECT), AND AUTHORIZING CERTAIN OTHER ACTIONS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH.

K. Allen left the room at 6:40 p.m.

  1. Consideration to Pay: Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc.:

July Port-a-Potties – $2,640.00

Use of Skid Loader for Dunn property – $1,572.50

J. Jones moved to approve the two payables to Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. L. Watts seconded. P. Allen, R. Nichols,, L. Wattts and J. Jones voted aye.

APPROVED SKITCH’S HAULING & EXCAVATION, INC. INVOICES.

K. Allen returned to the room at 6:41 p.m.

  1. Consideration of Bid – Water Treatment Plant Clarifier No. 1 Mixer Drive Replacement – Mark McCoy, Interim City Manager, informed the Commission that bids were submitted on August 9th, 2021. There were two bids received with the low bid from Davis Structure & Development Corporation of Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $90,355 and the other bid from G & G Construction Co., Inc. of Carthage, Missouri in the amount of $91.650.00. Approval for the low bid was requested.

L. Watts moved to approve the low bid from Davis Structure & Development Corporation of Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $90,355 for the Clarifier No. 1 Mixer Drive Replacement project. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approved the low bid from Davis Structure & Development Corporation of Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $90,355 for the Clarifier No. 1 Mixer Drive Replacement project.

  1. Consideration of Bid – Cooper Street Reconstruction – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, informed the Commission that this bid became confusing due to the bid and the plans. He recommended going with the bid form. Based on the bid, the low bidder was Marbery Concrete for $745,973. The bid alternate to replace Item #21, which was asphalt to concrete, the low bidder would be Amino Brother at $766,318.54. The question for the Commission to go with asphalt or concrete.

L. Watts said that the biggest question has to be answered by Finance and determine if there is funding.

Susan said that tonight you have over $1,000,000 in projects. Based on the cash basis law, you cannot spend over $330,000. There is short term financing available or temporary notes you can obtain.

Jason said that the bids would be good for 60 days.

Discussion was held to table this issue and bring back at the next meeting.

L. Watts made a motion to table the Cooper Street project until Susan Bancroft can investigate financing options for temporary notes or any other available financing. R. Nichols seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, R. Nichols and L. Watts voted aye. J. Jones abstained. Motion carried 4-1.

approved to table the Cooper Street project until Susan Bancroft can investigate financing options for temporary notes or any other available financing.

  1. Consideration of Bid – National Avenue Overlay – 13th to 17th – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, informed the Commission that there were two bids received on the National Overlay Project. They were received from Heckert Construction Co., Inc. of Pittsburg, Kansas and Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Inc. of Iola, Kansas. The bid from Heckert Construction is $90,606.75 and the bid from Bettis is $126,407.70. His recommendation is to award the bid to Heckert Construction in the amount of $90,606.75. Jason said that they would clean up the old milling that was done.

L. Watts moved to approve the bid for National Avenue overlay with Heckert Construction of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $90,606.75. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approved the bid for National Avenue overlay with Heckert Construction of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $90,606.75.

  1. Consideration of Bid – Horton Street – Mill and Overlay – Mayor Jones asked that this item also be tabled due to financing.

L. Watts moved to table the Horton Street project until Susan Bancroft can investigate financing options for temporary notes or any other available financing. R. Nichols seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts voted aye. P. Allen and J. Jones abstained. Motion carried 3-2.

approved to table the Horton Street project until Susan Bancroft can investigate financing options for temporary notes or any other available financing.

  1. Consideration of Bid – Union Block Alley – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, informed the Commission that there was one bid received on the alley project.

Discussion was held regarding if there was enough time for companies to bid this project.

L. Watts moved to reject the bids and rebid this project with a bid date of September 14th, 2021. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

Approved to reject the bid for the Union Block Alley and rebid this project with a bid date of September 14th, 2021.

  1. Consideration of Bid – Below Grade Restoration Eagle Block/CDL – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, informed the Commission that the bids were due last Friday. There were two bids received from Owenby Masonry & Construction of Fort Scott in the amount of $32,500 and a bid from Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. of Fort Scott in the amount of $34,968. He asked for approval for the low bid from Owenby Masonry & Construction in the amount of $32,500.

Discussion was held regarding the time frame of this project. Jason said the time frame is 30 days.

J. Jones moved to approve the low bid from Owenby Masonry & Construction of Fort Scott in the amount of $32,500 for the Below Grade Restoration project for the Eagle Block and CDL Building. R. Nichols seconded. P. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Jones voted aye. K. Allen abstained. Motion carried 4-1.

approved the low bid from Owenby Masonry & Construction of Fort Scott in the amount of $32,500 for the Below Grade Restoration project for the Eagle Block and CDL Building.

  1. Consideration to purchase used truck from Fort Scott Auto in the amount of $18,000 for Public Works – Jesse Pohlmann, Public Works Director, informed the Commission that they have found a 2011 GMC Sierra Pickup they would like to purchase. Tom Coffman, City Mechanic, has checked this vehicle thoroughly. It has 228,000 miles on it.

L. Watts moved to approve the purchase of a 2011 GMC Sierra Pickup in the amount of $18,000 for Public Works from Fort Scott Auto. R. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols and J. Jones votes aye. K. Allen and P. Allen both abstained. Motion carries 3-2.

approved the purchase of a 2011 GMC Sierra Pickup in the amount of $18,000 for Public Works from Fort Scott Auto.

  1. Police Department Update – Travis Shelton, Chief of Police, informed the Commission that three weeks ago Shawn Pritchett, who has been our K-9 handler, has resigned and to go to the Sheriff’s Department. He received a letter from Sheriff Bill Martin who asked to purchase the K-9 dog as well as well as the kennel. Chief Shelton said that he agrees with the request and would donate the dog to the Sheriff’s Department. The City would purchase another dog through our drug seizure funds.

R. Nichols moved to approve to donate the dog and kennel to the Sheriff’s Department. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO DONATE THE K-9 DOG AND KENNEL TO THE SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT.

  1. Human Resource Update – City Manager search – Brad Matkin, Human Resource Director, informed the Commission that he has researched the search for City Manager options. There are three options he has found.

  1. Use Osenbaugh Associates – Cost approximately $11,770

  2. Use of L.E.A.P.S program through the League of Kansas Municipalities at an approximate cost of $13,000

  3. Use City staff to advertise to the League, Linked In, the ICMA Association and other sites at an approximate cost of $1,700.

Brad suggested an interview process to include three community leaders, one City Commissioner and two Human Resource individuals.

L. Watts moved to approve the third option to search for a City Manager. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approved the third option to search for a City Manager.

  1. Disposal of City property – Jesse Pohlmann, Public Works Director, informed the Commission that the City has an old dump truck that needs scrapped. He asked for approval to scrap this old truck.

K. Allen moved to approve to scrap this old dump truck. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO SCRAP AN OLD DUMP TRUCK THAT IS NO LONGER USED.

Reports and Comments:

Commissioner Reports and Comments:

L. Watts – Nothing to report.

R. Nichols – Thanked the downtown cleanup committee for a job well done. He said it was well organized. He also complimented the downtown murals that were painted and how well they look.

He asked the Interim City Manager to look at a City-wide brush removal program where citizens could pile their brush at the edge of the curb and the City would pick it up.

P. Allen – Pete remarked about a letter that he and the Commissioners had been given by a citizen. He said that the streets are not going to be repaired overnight.

Pete asked the Commission if they were committeed to a Street Maintenance program and if they were behind him and all the work he has done.

K. Allen – Kevin remarked that the new City employees are doing a great job.

He also complimented the pothole patcher machine and the employees and that they were doing a good job. He mentioned that a crack filling machine had been discovered at Public Works which will also assist in the street repair.

Kevin brought up the stop sign at 3rd and National and removing it.

Discussion was held regarding a traffic counter.

He made a motion to remove the stop signs at 3rd and National going north and south. P. Allen seconded. K. Allen and P. Allen voted aye. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Jones voted no. Motion denied 3-2.

DENIED MOTION TO REMOVE THE STOP SIGNS AT 3RD AND NATIONAL GOING NORTH AND SOUTH.

J. Jones – Josh asked that the Interim City Manager review the Public Works contract with Earles Engineering.

Josh also asked that dock permit fee at Lake Fort Scott be researched.

Josh asked about the expansion of Municipal Court.

Diane told him that we are waiting on the new books from the League of Kansas Municipalities.

Josh asked about the traffic signals and the delay in the signals.

City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.

Adjournment:

J. Jones moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:33 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:33 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Fort Scott, Government

FS Commission August 20 Special Meeting

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of August 10th, 2021 Special Meeting #21

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held August 10th, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, and Randy Nichols were present with Mayor Josh Jones presiding. L. Watts was absent.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Mark McCoy, Travis Shelton, Brad Matkin, Rachel Thompson, Susan Bancroft and Michael Hoyt.

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration of Interim City Manager Proposed Contract – Mayor Jones said that this agreement had been sent to all Commissioners yesterday. He asked if any of them had any questions.

Randy asked about the renewal period of month to month and if each month it is renewed.

City Attorney said that is correct.

J. Jones made a motion to enter into an employment contract with Mark McCoy as Interim City Manager for the City of Fort Scott. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ENTER INTO AN EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT WITH MARK MCCOY AS INTERIM CITY MANAGER FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT ON A MONTH TO MONTH BASIS.

ADJOURNMENT:

J. Jones moved to adjourn the special meeting at 6:05 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 6:05 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C., City Clerk