Monthly Archives: April 2023

Bourbon County, Government, Schools

U235: There is a Need For Upgrades

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Vance Eden. From the district’s online staff directory.

There is a need to upgrade some infrastructure in Uniontown’s School District, Vance Eden, associate superintendent, told a recent Community Connections Panel in Fort Scott. A bond issue is being looked at for the district possibly this year.

USD 235 has 480 students from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade and serves five small communities in the western rural part of Bourbon County.

“If a bond is brought to the community for a vote, we would anticipate that happening in late summer or early fall, but that will be dependent on a variety of factors,” Eden said.
The U235 District bond issue would be for upgrading pre-school,  a tornado safe room, an updated fire system, security upgrades, and a hydronic lab.
The board is also looking at a grant to upgrade the walking trail that is around the school district property, which is also used by the community.
The following is an interview with Eden:
What is the need with the preschool building?
“Our current modular pre-kindergarten structure is at a point of deterioration that it no longer makes financial sense to invest funds into it.  Additionally, safety and security would be increased by having a structure that is attached to West Bourbon Elementary.  One other layer of consideration is that Kansas State Department of Education  has expanded its funding stream to include three-year-old students.  With this is mind, it makes sense that we consider adding programming for these students as well.  There is still much to consider and many factors at play, but we recognize some significant needs related to pre-school programming.”
What is the need for a saferoom?
“Our current facilities do not have tornado safe rooms.  Sheltering in interior classrooms and /or in locker rooms is clearly more safe than some other spaces.  However, it is now widely recognized that a purpose-built facility is really the only option for ensuring maximum safety.  These spaces would be designed for regular use as classrooms and/or multipurpose rooms to maximize the return of our investment.  Additionally, the district has the ability to apply for FEMA Grant funds to potentially help offset some of the cost associated.”
What is the need for updated fire alarm system?
” While up to code, the current JH/HS fire alarm is in need of updating.  In its current configuration it most broadly relies on pull stations near exits that then sound an audible alarm with flashing strobes.  We would like to upgrade to a system that also includes smoke detectors and automatically communicates with emergency services.”
What is the need for security updates?
“It is important that we are always considering student safety as a top priority.  There are some needs and opportunities for improvement have been identified, but it is critical that I’m careful as to not share our security vulnerabilities with those who may have malicious intent.  These have been identified through professional assessments, our administrative team, and the bond advisory council.”
What is the hydronic lab idea?
” Instead of using a greenhouse, the district is pursuing a “container farm” as a means of providing hands on learning opportunities to students across a variety of programs in addition to providing some produce for our food service programs.  We have done a tour and had some initial conversations with Leafy Green Farms of Pittsburg who has these containers.  Leafy Green Farms is currently working with Pittsburg High School and several other Southeast Kansas schools to facilitate such a program.”
Also you are looking for grants to update the walking trail around the school?
“The district is waiting to hear back on a response from a Recreation Trail Program (RTP) Grant that had been applied for.  We are hoping to get a response any day.  Once we get word one way or the other, we will share that information.  We recognize that this is a project that many are interested in.”
Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Special Meeting April 11

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Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 1st Floor County Courthouse

210 S National Avenue

April 11, 2023, 12:30 PM

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Special Meeting to Possibly Approve a Letter to the Commissioners of the City of Fort Scott
  1. Adjourn

 

One or more County Commissioners may attend via phone.

 

 

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING APRIL 10 PUBLIC AGENDA

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Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                        

Superintendent                                                                                                                                             

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

APRIL 10, 2023 – 5:30 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0       Call Meeting to Order                                  Danny Brown, President

 

2.0       Flag Salute

 

3.0       Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)

 

4.0       Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)

            4.1       Board Minutes

  1. 03/06/2023 Regular Meeting
  2. 03/27/2023 Special Board Meeting

            4.2       Financials-Cash Flow Report

            4.3       Check Register

            4.4       Payroll – March 9, 2023 – $1,571,728.00

            4.5       Activity Fund accounts

            4.6       Negotiations Training

4.7       LEA Assurances

4.8       Point of Interest – Board Meeting on May 8th will be at the normal time of 5:30.  The                  Employee Recognition Reception will be held on May 17, 2023 starting at 1:00 pm.

 

5.0       Recognitions

5.1 Student Recognition

5.2 Employee Recognition

5.3 Board Member Acknowledgements

 

6.0       Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)

            6.1       Superintendent’s Report

            6.2       Assistant Superintendent’s Report

            6.3       Finance Director’s Report

                                               

 

 

7.0       Old Business

7.1       Fort Scott Preschool Center (Action Item)

7.2       Tennis Courts Resurface – Hellas Construction Inc. (Action Item)

7.3       Resolution 22-13 (Action Item)

           

8.0       New Business

8.1       KASB Membership Renewal & Legal Assistance Fund Contract (Action Item)

8.2       Roof Payment (Action Item)

8.3       Science Textbook Adoption (Action Item)

Grades 3-5: Inspire Science, McGraw Hill

Grades 6-8: Inspire Science, McGraw Hill

8.4       Letters Exchanged for Negotiations (Information Item)

  1. USD 234 Letter
  2. FSKNEA Letter

8.5       Contract for Occupational Therapy Services with Outreach Occupational Therapy, LLC                  for the 2023-24 School Year          (Action Item)

8.6       Premium Pay Rates for 2022-23 and 2023-24 (Action Item)

 

9.0       Public Forum

10.0     Other Business – Negotiations

10.1     Enter Executive Session – Negotiations (Action Item)

10.2     Exit Executive Session

 

11.0     Other Business – Personnel Matters

11.1     Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)

11.2     Exit Executive Session

11.3     Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)

11.4     Approval of Personnel Report – Reemployment Certified & Special Services Personnel                  2023-24 (Action Item)

11.5     Approval of Personnel Report – Part-Time Speech Language Pathologist 2023-24

             (Action Item)

11.6     Approval of Personnel Report – Reemployment Certified Personnel 2023-24 (Action Item)

 

12.0     Adjourn Meeting

                        Vice-President Barrows

 

Opinion

Just For The Weekend by Carolyn Tucker

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I didn’t grow up with the joy of having a sister, but God has blessed me with true-blue   girlfriends all my life. In 1990, one family jokingly adopted me as their sixth daughter. I became known to them as Rhonda #6 and I was happy to be a pseudo sister to the other five girls in that wonderful family. Daughter #4 is a professional woman with  closets full of attractive clothes. Occasionally, I call Deborah to ask if I may borrow a brown skirt, a polka-dot blouse, etc. Even if my request is “off the wall,” she always comes through for me. I guess it’s a sister thing to wear each other’s clothes. When I borrow an article of clothing, it’s usually for a special occasion taking place over the weekend.

 

Joseph of Arimathea was an upright, wealthy, and generous man who assumed responsibility for the burial of Jesus after His crucifixion. Among the Jews, it was considered a horrible thing for the body of a friend or fellow Jew to remain unburied. “As evening approached, Joseph…who had become a follower of Jesus, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him” (Matthew 27:57-58 NLT). This was the first documented instance where Joseph openly confessed that he was a disciple of the long-awaited Messiah. It took great courage to go to Pilate and ask for the body of Christ.

 

Joseph was part of the Jewish Sanhedrin who called for Jesus to be condemned and crucified. Although a prominent member in good standing, Joseph was opposed to the Council’s decision. With Pilate’s permission, “…Joseph came and took the body away. With him came Nicodemus…. He brought about 75 pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. …they wrapped Jesus’ body with the spices in long sheets of linen cloth. The place of crucifixion was near a garden, where there was a new tomb, never used before…they laid Jesus there” (John 19:38-42 NLT). The embalming spices were very costly and was enough for the burial of a king…the King of kings.  

 

“He [the Messiah] had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone. But He was buried like a criminal; He was put in a rich man’s grave” (Isaiah 53:9 NLT). Although Jesus was an innocent Man, God’s Holy One, dishonor pursued Him all the way to the tomb. His death was an official Roman execution sanctioned by the Sanhedrin Council. Joseph of Arimathea donated his newly-carved sepulcher for the Savior’s burying place. Jesus had done nothing to deserve such a vicious death and was guilty of nothing more than love in the third degree.

 

Scripture reveals that Jesus could be trusted to borrow things. He borrowed an unsanitary   manger at his birth. He borrowed a lowly donkey’s colt when he rode into Jerusalem. He borrowed an upstairs guest room for the Last Supper. And he borrowed a fresh tomb at his death. Joseph of Arimathea deeply loved Jesus and gave Him his own tomb, thinking he’d never see the inside of it again. Fortunately, Joseph’s gift of honor was returned after three days because Jesus only needed it for the weekend.

 

The Key: Jesus borrowed a tomb just for the weekend, but He wants us to live with Him for all eternity.

Government

FS City Commission Minutes of March 21

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

Minutes of March 21, 2023                                     Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held March 21, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, K. Harrington, were present with Mayor M. Wells.  E. Woellhof was absent.

 

FLAG SALUTE AND INVOCATION:  M. Wells, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Ben Hart/BakerTilly Financial, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Police Chief Jason Pickert, Scott Flater/WWTP Director, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, Pete Earles/Earles Engineering, Doug Guns/Facilities Director, Thomas Russell/Codes Enforcement, yMichael Clancy/RenoDry, Doug McKinney/AMS, Jimmy Pleasant/AMS, Shawn Davies, Ryan Born, John Carrier, Michael J. Hoyt, Pete Allen.

 

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:

  1. Jones moved to approve the march 23, 2023 agenda as submitted. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE MARCH 23, 2023 AGENDA AS SUBMITTED.

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of March 7, 2023, and special meeting of March 13, 2023.

 

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1332-A totaling $321,703.00

 

  1. Request to Pay – J. Richardson Construction – 17th & Eddy Stormwater Improvements – $12,274.30

 

  1. February Financials

 

  1. Jones moved to approve the Consent Agenda. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:  None

 

OLD BUSINESS:

  1. Sludge Removal Update: AMS and Scott Flater/WWTP Director – Scott Flater address the Commission with an update on progression at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. He stated that on November 4 (or 5), 2022, they began treatment with microbes. On September 19, 2022, a sludge judging, to measure the depth of the sludge, was performed prior to treatment. The average measurements were as follows: Cell#1 – 77.83”, Cell#2 – 25”, Cell#3 – 24”. December 20, 2022 (5 or 6 weeks after the addition of microbes) Cell#1 – 33.54”, Cell#2 – 12.3”, Cell#3 – 14.06”.  January 6, 2023 – Cell#1 – 23.21”, Cell#2 – 12.70”, Cell#3 – 10.06”. Microbes are added daily and the lagoons are stirred. The last sludge judge was done on March 15, 2023 – Cell#1 – 20.0”, Cell#2 – 9.00”, Cell#3 – 4.00”.
  2. VanHoecke questioned the high concentration levels of BOD, COD and TSS over the past few months. T. VanHoecke is concerned about how the elevated numbers are affecting the work that AMS is doing if the customer dropping off loads is not helping to reduce the volume and potency. S. Flater stated that it seriously impedes the process.

 

Discussion was had about the sludge judge numbers, the process the company uses to dump the product, test results, and increase in the number of loads from the customer. It was also discussed what has happened so far to address the backslide and what is Fort Scott doing or not doing to handle the issue.

 

  1. Flater stated that it is not a matter of what we’re not doing, it is a matter of what they’re not doing. T. VanHoecke stated his concern about having issues with KDHE. S. Flater stated there are issues. He explained how the system works. He stated that seven (7) out of the last (12) months we have exceeded the permit with KDHE due to the issues being addressed.

 

  1. VanHoecke stated that prior to S. Flater taking the position, there had been plans to have the customer help reduce the issues with corrective action, but he had not received any of that information.

 

  1. Matkin stated that he was told in a meeting that the customer was treating the water over there, they were trying to recycle some of the chemicals that are in their waste such as glycerin. B. Matkin stated that they must start working on their end to help themselves and to help us. He stated that they had no action plan to share.

 

  1. Wells asked S. Flater what he believes should be done. S. Flater stated that in his opinion, in the present state of conditions, it is not a sustainable relationship. He stated that he understands we want to stay in the relationship, but things must change. He stated a letter was sent and nothing was done about it and there was no follow-up, there was no response to the letter.

 

Doug McKinney addressed the Commission on behalf of Advanced Microbial Solutions (AMS) to answer questions and give a point of view from his perspective. He stated that his company is “the boots on the ground” and they do have concerns. He stated that the information he received from the officials in the beginning was verbal. He said it was his understanding that there was 45 to 90,000 additional gallons of industrial sludge coming into the plant.  He said that the point we are at now, the smell will be back. He stated that AMS removed 51” of sludge from Cell#1 in a timely manner. He stated they should have been done by February. He explained how the system was intended to work, the issues they are encountering now and what is happening with the sludge. He began seeing a problem on January 16, 2023. He stated that they were monitoring the issue and expediting their efforts, but the efforts were going backwards. He stated that they saw a difference in the composition of the sludge. It is very pasty and gritty, and it should be slimy. He stated that while he was on site, he observed more trucks coming in and contacted S. Flater. It was calculated that more industrial sludge was being dumped than was calculated for treatment.  D. McKinney stated that had he had the proper numbers, AMS would be doing something different to handle this lagoon system. He believed that AMS has already removed 150% of what they had agreed to do.  He feels they have gone above and beyond and would like to know what the next move will be. He stated that ADM is bringing in twice as many loads and that is increasing the capacity. He stated they can help but in a different way, not in its current state.  He also said that it is his belief that if AMS stopped treating, the situation would be back within 90 days.  D. McKinney proposed to the Commission to pay AMS for what they have done, regroup and help Ft. Scott find a solution to addressing the industrial sludge.

 

  1. Wells asked D. McKinney for his approach to the problem. D. McKinney stated that he would start by taking a sample from the truck, determine the load amount, go back to the table with ADM, get additional equipment installed and a new plan in place. He stated that if it is glycerin in the sludge, that makes a huge difference in rectifying the situation. He stated it is imperative to know what they are dealing with regarding the sludge.

 

Further discussion was had about the goal of the contract and the current situation of the lagoons.

 

  1. Jones directed B. Matkin to arrange a special meeting with ADM and the Commission.

 

  1. VanHoecke stated that he would like to see ADM take action to help the relationship remain between the City and ADM.

 

Pete Earles addressed the Commission regarding the lagoons. He stated that the lagoons operate on three (3) things, air, temperature and time. He explained that winter temperatures have affected the microbes and the aeration system installed has not been turned on yet.  P. Earles stated that AMS did not sample the sludge which can contain biological and non-biologically treatable materials. This lagoon is an overflow that receives stormwater which contains clay, rocks and silt that goes in to the lagoon.  He stated that possibly the sludge is gritty because it contains non-biodegradable materials. He stated that AMS cannot say they can remove all of the sludge when they do not know what is in it. He stated that we had a different lab sample and the high level results are what started the process to make AMS pay for what they were truly sending. He stated that the worst thing you can do with a tank system treatment plant is slug it, and that’s what we are doing.

 

APPEARANCES: 

 

  1. Pat Bishop – Land Bank Manager – Introduction and Annual Report:
  2. Bishop distributed an annual report for the Fort Scott Land Bank. He reported that the current inventory is forty-seven (47) properties in Fort Scott that were acquired from the two (2) foreclosure sales in the past year and two (2) additional properties have been acquired by donation. He stated that most are vacant and eight (8) or nine (9) have a structure. P. Bishop stated that as Land Bank Manager it is his job to get these properties ready for sale or transfer. He stated that anyone interested in the properties should contact him or any member of the Board to begin the application process.

 

  1. Shane Lamb and Susan Galemore/SEKEDC: Consideration of Resolution No. 6-2023. A RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT KANSAS HOUSING INVESTORS TAX CREDIT APPLICATION BY RURAL REDEVELOPMENT GROUP LLC FOR DEVELOPMENT OF RENTAL HOUSING LOCATED AT 736 S. HEYLMAN, FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

  1. Lamb stated he acquired the Old Fort Scott Manner property. His goal is to convert the property into nineteen (19) fair-market rental units with a mix of one (1) and two (2) bedroom apartments.

 

  1. Jones confirmed S. Lamb had previously addressed the Commission. S. Lamb stated that he has a pending assessment waiver.

 

  1. Harrington questioned the status of that issue. Discussion was had about the status of his progress. S. Galemore stated that his progress was dependent on this tax benefit program which requires approval of the submitted resolution stating that the City supports the project.

 

  1. VanHoecke questioned the time frame of the project. S. Galemore stated that the application is due February 17th, (2023) with an award date of mid-March (2023). She stated that there is a qualification process for the project before it can begin. S. Lamb stated that his timeframe was eighteen (18) months.

 

  1. Harrington stated that approving the resolution would allow S. Lamb to move forward with his project to request state income tax credits.

 

Further discussion was had about S. Lamb’s previous appearance regarding this property.  J. Jones asked R. Harrington about the ramifications of the project not being completed.  R. Harrington stated that the tax credits were given upon completion of the project.  S. Galemore explained the program as it relates to Senate Bill 2237 and the follow through process. She also explained that multiple developers cannot make multiple applications, funds are limited, and it is highly competitive but other developers can apply for additional tax credits.

 

  1. Harrington moved to approve Resolution No. 6-2023. A RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT KANSAS HOUSING INVESTORS TAX CREDIT APPLICATION BY RURAL REDEVELOPMENT GROUP LLC FOR DEVELOPMENT OF RENTAL HOUSING LOCATED AT 736 S. HEYLMAN, FORT SCOTT, KANSAS. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED Resolution No. 6-2023. A RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT KANSAS HOUSING INVESTORS TAX CREDIT APPLICATION BY RURAL REDEVELOPMENT GROUP LLC FOR DEVELOPMENT OF RENTAL HOUSING LOCATED AT 736 S. HEYLMAN, FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

  1. Justin Pregont regarding the Van Fossen Apartment Project: Consideration of Resolution No. 4-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE SUBMISSION OF THE MODERATE-INCOME HOUSING GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CERTAIN HOUSING WITHIN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS TO ACCOMPANY THE GRANT APPLICATION TO THE KANSAS HOUSING RESOURCES CORPORATION

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 5-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF A RURAL HOUSING INCENTIVE DISTRICT (RHID) AND AN INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND (IRB) ISSUE IN SUPPORT OF THE VANFOSSEN APARTMENTS PROJECT TO BE LOCATED AT 19 S. MAIN AND 23 S. MAIN IN DOWNTOWN FORT SCOTT, KANSAS

 

  1. Pregont stated this was his second appearance before the Commission regarding the building at 9 S. Main. He is pursuing a project he calls the Van Fossen Apartments. It is a sixteen (16) unit adaptive reuse and historic preservation project approximately 16,000 square feet of the second and third floors of the Van Fossen building at 23 S. Main as well as a comprehensive renovation of the second floor of 19 S. Main. He is seeking the Commission’s approval to apply for $1,375,000.00 in the AARPA category of the Moderate-Income Housing (MIH) Grant. He stated that the City’s responsibility is administrative because the checks that come from the Kansas Highway Resource Corporation must flow through a local government sponsor. He explained the process that he followed with similar projects he has done in the past. He stated that he is the sponsor, he is responsible for carrying it through to completion and he is responsible for the compliance but the funds flow through the City.

 

Commissioners asked questions of the City Attorney and J. Pregont was answered.

 

  1. Harrington stated that J. Pregont is asking for a zero-dollar IRB for sales tax exemption on the purchases he makes. He also stated that the federal government and the state would pursue him if he failed to complete the project.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 4-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE SUBMISSION OF THE MODERATE-INCOME HOUSING GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CERTAIN HOUSING WITHIN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS TO ACCOMPANY THE GRANT APPLICATION TO THE KANSAS HOUSING RESOURCES CORPORATION. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 4-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE SUBMISSION OF THE MODERATE-INCOME HOUSING GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CERTAIN HOUSING WITHIN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS TO ACCOMPANY THE GRANT APPLICATION TO THE KANSAS HOUSING RESOURCES CORPORATION.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 5-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF A RURAL HOUSING INCENTIVE DISTRICT (RHID) AND AN INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND (IRB) ISSUE IN SUPPORT OF THE VANFOSSEN APARTMENTS PROJECT TO BE LOCATED AT 19 S. MAIN AND 23 S. MAIN IN DOWNTOWN FORT SCOTT, KANSAS. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 5-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF A RURAL HOUSING INCENTIVE DISTRICT (RHID) AND AN INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND (IRB) ISSUE IN SUPPORT OF THE VANFOSSEN APARTMENTS PROJECT TO BE LOCATED AT 19 S. MAIN AND 23 S. MAIN IN DOWNTOWN FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

  1. Proposal of Pocket Neighborhood – Patrick Wood
  2. Wood distributed handouts of a Pocket Neighborhood that he is proposing at 1907 Huntington. He purchased the property in 2018. He described that he planned to put in ten (10) houses on four (4) lots with one central green area which promotes a sense of community and security. They are four (4) one (1)- bedroom, three (3) two (2)-bedroom, and three (3)-bedroom, handicap accessible individual rental units. Currently they are planned to be stick build on site, but he is looking into other options. The zoning is appropriate for the project. The plan is to be completed within a year to 18 months. R. Harrington stated that REDI is excited about this project as well as the VanFossen Apartments project and recommends that the Commission approves the proposal. R. Harrington stated that P. Wood does not have the resolution he needs from him. Therefore, he is requesting that the Commission come back in a special meeting to approve the resolution because the application is due on February 17, 2023.

 

ITEM TABLED UNTIL THE SPECIAL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 14, 2023.

 

PUBLIC HEARING:

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to open the Public Hearing for Petitioner Robert Lembcke of 2010 E. 3rd Street, Fort Scott, to vacate the roadway easement on Barteau Street between 3rd Street and 4th Street – Property described as: APPROXIMATELY 300’ X 60’ OF BARTEAU STREET LYING BETWEEN LOTS 1-13 BLOCK 16 AND LOTS 2-14 BLOCK 17 MCMILLAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT KANSAS. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR PETITIONER ROBERT LEMBCKE OF 2010 E. 3RD STREET, FORT SCOTT, TO VACATE THE ROADWAY EASEMENT ON BARTEAU STREET BETWEEN 3RD STREET AND 4TH STREET – PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS: APPROXIMATELY 300’ X 60’ OF BARTEAU STREET LYING BETWEEN LOTS 1-13 BLOCK 16 AND LOTS 2-14 BLOCK 17 MCMILLAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT KANSAS.

 

Thomas Russel/Codes Enforcement, stated that part of Mr. Lembcke’s garage is already in this easement. Both neighbors who are affected agree with the petition.  T. Russel, B. Matkin and Chief T. Shelton stated they do not have concerns.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR PETITIONER ROBERT LEMBCKE OF 2010 E. 3RD STREET, FORT SCOTT, TO VACATE THE ROADWAY EASEMENT ON BARTEAU STREET BETWEEN 3RD STREET AND 4TH STREET – PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS: APPROXIMATELY 300’ X 60’ OF BARTEAU STREET LYING BETWEEN LOTS 1-13 BLOCK 16 AND LOTS 2-14 BLOCK 17 MCMILLAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT KANSAS.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the petition by Robert Lembcke of 2010 E. 3rd Street, Fort Scott, to vacate the roadway easement on Barteau Street between 3rd Street and 4th Street – Property described as: APPROXIMATELY 300’ X 60’ OF BARTEAU STREET LYING BETWEEN LOTS 1-13 BLOCK 16 AND LOTS 2-14 BLOCK 17 MCMILLAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT KANSAS. J. Jones seconded.  T.VanHoecke, J. Jones, E. Woellhof, K. Harrington voted aye.  M. Wells voted nay.

 

APPROVED THE PETITION BY ROBERT LEMBCKE OF 2010 E. 3RD STREET, FORT SCOTT, TO VACATE THE ROADWAY EASEMENT ON BARTEAU STREET BETWEEN 3RD STREET AND 4TH STREET – PROPERTY DESCRIBED AS: APPROXIMATELY 300’ X 60’ OF BARTEAU STREET LYING BETWEEN LOTS 1-13 BLOCK 16 AND LOTS 2-14 BLOCK 17 MCMILLAN’S ADDITION TO THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT KANSAS.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

 

  1. Consideration to publish for Request for Proposals for Ground Lease – B. Matkin explained this was the yearly lease program for the land by the Wastewater Treatment Plant. It is done every year and we the consider accepting the highest bidder.

 

  1. Jones moved to publish for Request for Proposals for Ground Lease by the Wastewater Treatment Plant. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO PUBLISH FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR GROUND LEASE BY THE WATERWASTER TREATMENT PLANT.

 

  1. Consideration to go out for bids for 2023 Mowing Season – B. Matkin explained this was the yearly bid for contract mowing of properties in the Land Bank or Code Violations. He would like to suggest that the Commission consider asking for three (3)-year contract bids.

 

  1. Wells stated that he would like to see it move to a three (3)-year contract.

 

  1. Jones stated that he would like to see both one (1)-year and three (3)-year bids and then the Commission has options.

 

  1. Jones and T. VanHoecke would like to see the Land Bank piggyback off of this agreement.

 

  1. Jones moved to go out for one (1)-year and three (3)-year moving bids for the 2023 mowing season. Bids will be due March 17th, 2023. K. Harrington seconded.

 

  1. Jones directed B. Matkin to speak with P. Bishop about the Land Bank agreement.

 

All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO GO OUT FOR ONE (1)-YEAR AND THREE (3)-YEAR MOVING BIDS FOR THE 2023 MOWING SEASON. BIDS WILL BE DUE MARCH 17TH, 2023.

 

  1. Consideration to apply for Grant Project for Automatic External Defibrillator to be placed at City Hall, Buck Run, Fire Department, Airport, Golf Course, Public Works, and Memorial Hall – Dave Bruner: D. Bruner answered questions from Commissioners regarding the number of defibrillators, their planned locations maintenance, brands being considered and training. He is asking permission from the Commission to seek out opportunities. If there are matching opportunities, he will bring those back to the Commission’s approval.

 

  1. Harrington moved to apply for Grant Project for Automatic External Defibrillator to be placed at City Hall, Buck Run, Fire Department, Airport, Golf Course, Public Works, and Memorial Hall. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO APPLY FOR GRANT PROJECT FOR AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR TO BE PLACED AT CITY HALL, BUCK RUN, FIRE DEPARTMENT, AIRPORT, GOLF COURSE, PUBLIC WORKS, AND MEMORIAL HALL.

 

  1. Consideration to apply for an Assistance to Firefighters Grant to replace the Exhaust Removal Systems within truck bay areas of Fire Station 1 and Fire Station 2 – Dave Bruner: D. Bruner stated that they have systems that are outdated and cannot get replacement parts for any longer. He stated it will be approximately $150,000.00. Fort Scott qualifies for the 95/5 Matching Grant so the City would be responsible for approximately $7,500.00.  He stated that it is a tough process for this grant, and he is not positive they will be awarded. If not, he will find another for next year.

 

  1. Jones moved to grant permission to apply for an Assistance to Firefighters Grant to replace the Exhaust Removal Systems within truck bay areas of Fire Station 1 and Fire Station 2. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO GRANT PERMISSION TO APPLY FOR AN ASSISTANCE TO FIREFIGHTERS GRANT TO REPLACE THE EXHAUST REMOVAL SYSTEMS WITHIN TRUCK BAY AREAS OF FIRE STATION 1 AND FIRE STATION 2.

 

It was agreed by the Commission, through discussion, that in the future, if the application for a grant did not require the Commission’s approval and it was under the budget impact of the City Manager, the item could move forward without appearing before the Commission.

 

  1. Consideration to go out for RFPs for the Cape Seal Program for 2023: Discussion was had about where the Cape Seal would be applied.  B. Matkin was directed by M. Wells to make changes to the program and have it ready for the special meeting on February 14, 2023.

 

CONSIDERATION TABLED TO FEBRUARY 14, 2023, SPECIAL MEETING.

 

  1. Brick Crew Justification:
  2. Matkin would like the Commission to consider hiring a Utility Street Repair Crew consisting of a three (3)-person crew. $120,000.00 a year would be used to fund the crew and it would be taken from three (3) GL’s: Streets, Wastewater and Water Distribution. Their focus would be repairing street cuts, but they would do other things as needed.

 

  1. Hart confirmed that the funds were available for this crew.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve a three (3)-person Utility Street Repair Crew consisting based on BakerTilly’s recommendation of funding and the City Manager’s justification for need. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED A THREE (3)-PERSON UTILITY STREET REPAIR CREW CONSISTING BASED ON BAKERTILLY’S RECOMMENDATION OF FUNDING AND THE CITY MANAGER’S JUSTIFICATION FOR NEED.

 

  1. Harrington asked the group of Nursing Students from Pitt State who came to the Commission meeting to introduce themselves. Maddy Morris, Sarah Coffman, McKenzie Hughes and Leia Shaffer stated that they were here to observe the meeting and do a community assessment as a class assignment. They thanked the Commission for allowing them to observe and speak with citizens and they enjoyed visiting Fort Scott.

 

  1. Consideration of removing the “Interim” from Interim City Manager title:
  2. VanHoecke motioned to move into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters pursuant to the personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). In the meeting will be five (5) City Commissioners, City Attorney and Jeff Hancock for 15 minutes. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Meeting Room at 8:32PM. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO MOVE IN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING PERSONNEL MATTERS PURSUANT TO THE PERSONNEL MATTERS OF NON-ELECTED PERSONNEL EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319(B)(1). IN THE MEETING WILL BE FIVE (5) CITY COMMISSIONERS, CITY ATTORNEY AND JEFF HANCOCK FOR 15 MINUTES. THE OPEN MEETING WILL RESUME IN THE COMMISSION MEETING ROOM AT 8:32PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke motioned to come out of Executive Session at 8:32PM with action. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:32PM WITH ACTION.

 

  1. VanHoecke motioned that the Commission will begin contract negotiations with Brad Matkin to move from title of Interim City Manager to active full-time City Manager and that he work on the negotiation with City Attorney Bob Farmer to be present back to the Commissioners for approval. He will remain on his current contract and the severance of fifteen (15) days’ notice and that we maintain BakerTilly to work with Brad at this time until such time deemed not necessary to ensure B. Matkin’s success. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

  1. Wells directed J. Hancock to move forward with the facilitation of the performance evaluation.

 

APPROVED THAT THE COMMISSION WILL BEGIN CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS WITH BRAD MATKIN TO MOVE FROM TITLE OF INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO ACTIVE FULL-TIME CITY MANAGER AND THAT HE WORK ON THE NEGOTIATION WITH CITY ATTORNEY BOB FARMER TO BE PRESENT BACK TO THE COMMISSIONERS FOR APPROVAL. HE WILL REMAIN ON HIS CURRENT CONTRACT AND THE SEVERANCE OF FIFTEEN (15) DAYS’ NOTICE AND THAT WE MAINTAIN BAKERTILLY TO WORK WITH BRAD AT THIS TIME UNTIL SUCH TIME DEEMED NOT NECESSARY TO ENSURE B. MATKIN’S SUCCESS.

 

 

REPORTS AND COMMENTS:

 

Interim City Manager: B. Matkin thanked the Commission for their consideration and moving forward on his title.

 

  1. RenoDry: The report is complete, suggests having Michael Clancy return to answer questions but would also like to explore other options and consider doing the outside as well as the inside. Brad will contact Michael Clancy.

 

  1. School Crosswalk Light on National Ave: got three (3) bids ranging from $6,000.00 to $8,500.00. B. Matkin will check on grants.

 

  1. Sidewalk and Curb Reimbursement Program: City Hall was told we no longer did this.  B. Hart told B. Matkin that there are funds to bring the program back.  T. VanHoecke would like to discuss it further before deciding.

 

  1. Demolition Budget: There is $50,000.00 in the budget but also $22,000.00 for carryover but does not include bids already in play.

 

  1. Audio-visual Equipment for Commission Room: E. Woellhof retrieved a quote that is over our budget. We still have a quote of $8,000.00 for speakers and hard-wired microphones and required equipment and installation. To add two cameras to the package the total would be $12,000.00. Discussion was had about how the equipment would be placed. It was agreed upon to purchase the audio equipment and the two (2) cameras, two (2) speakers and twelve (12) microphones for $12,000.00. B. Matkin has the three (3) bids for the budget impact requirements.

 

  1. Jones moved to purchase the audio-visual package for $13,000.00 which included two (2) speakers, two (2) cameras and twelve (12) hard-wired microphones.

 

  1. Harrington asked to see the other two (2) bids before voting. Motion struck and item tabled until the special meeting on February 14, 2023.

 

  1. Downtown Parking ideas: B. Matkin introduced his idea for increased parking on Wall Street with angled one-way parking. He will be discussing it with business owners. Discussion was had on traffic and the one-way parking.

 

Engineering:  J. Dickman updated the Commission that he received an approval letter for the Waterline Extension, need to decide when to go out for bids. He will start writing the bid.

 

Wastewater Treatment Plant:  Peter Earles met with Scott Flater.  P. Earles would like to get on the next agenda to bring items to the Commission.

 

17th and Eddy:  Waiting for contact from ATT.

 

Gunn Park Shower House and Bathroom:  Currently working on a bid package.

 

Downtown Parking:  Gave comments on stall sizes and stated they were laid out at 9 feet. Handicapped parking stalls were discussed.

 

COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS:

 

  1. Jones – Status of Member of the Week – B. Matkin stated not implemented yet. Production time sheets – B. Matkin stated that we are doing project time sheets. Action in Progress Plan – want report on cart path repairs, roof on shop by Hole 16, edge outfield of LaRoche, Gunn Park Gazebo. B. Matkin stated the gazebo was discussed at the Parks Advisory Board meeting.

 

  1. Jones moved to have Norm Mackley use his best judgement to determine whether to fix or remove the gazebo at Gunn Park. He is to remove it if necessary. If he determines it can be fixed, he is to bring a plan back to the Commission for approval. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO HAVE NORM MACKLEY USE HIS BEST JUDGEMENT TO DETERMINE WHETHER TO FIX OR REMOVE THE GAZEBO AT GUNN PARK.

HE IS TO REMOVE IT IF NECESSARY. IF HE DETERMINES IT CAN BE FIXED, HE IS TO BRING A PLAN BACK TO THE COMMISSION FOR APPROVAL.

 

Discussion was had on the condition of the Lion’s Den at Gunn Park.

 

  1. Jones asked J. Dickman if the Car Wash Meter had been set. B. Matkin stated he would ask B. Lemke for status.

 

UTV Ordinance language to be cleaned up.  B. Matkin clarified that the vehicle was to be inspected once to obtain the City license and if it changes ownership.

Discussion was had about the Golf Cart Ordinance changes previously made.

 

Seriously consider Golf Course Marshall for Saturday and Sunday.  B. Matkin stated he needs to find out what is legal compensation.

 

  1. VanHoecke expressed concern about not seeing Management present at the weekend and the Rules sign not being visible.

 

More discussion was had about the golf course topics.

 

  1. VanHoecke – follow up discussion on alley marking by Common Ground, US-69 traffic lights update, interested in going through Codes procedures with City Attorney, M. Wells is interested in helping, congratulations to the new Police Chief.

 

  1. Harrington – Boat ramp at Lake Fort Scott will be closed until the 20th. Shelter house repairs are still in progress, congratulations to Kate and Trent with their ribbon cutting event, Pinewood Derby, Chocolate Crawl, and the Illusionist.

 

  1. Woellhof – comments were inaudible.

 

  1. Wells – Possible to set up AB3 storage spots next to Public Works and one in another location for efficiency, Department Heads come to Commission meeting and give reports on a set cycle. Track our crews with app on phone. Concern about staff not being present at the airport on Sundays – B. Matkin stated that someone is always on call.

 

City Attorney Comments: None.

 

Adjournment:

  1. VanHoecke moved to adjourn at 9:24 PM. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:24 P.M.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Lisa Lewis

City Clerk

Opinion

Letter to the Editor: Deb McCoy

7 Comments

Haywired

Deb McCoy

Perpetrators: Shared Services of the Bourbon County IT Department that involves both the County Courthouse and the City Hall

Unethical Actions: Wiretapping, and Breach of Privacy that includes County and City Offices of City and county officials and associates.

Timeline: 2022 to present

Victims: Bourbon County/City Citizens, employees, and anyone else who contacts the County or City by telephone or email.

City and County Officials Who Are Aware of this activity:

    – Sitting County Commissioners

– County Counsel and Bourbon County Prosecuting Attorney

– County Officials and County employees

– Sitting City Managers, past, interim and present

– Sitting City Commissioners – Sitting City Attorney

– City Employees

– Citizens who have been involved in observing and taking an interest in the local government activities.

Agencies that have been contacted regarding the unethical activity:

– County Prosecutor

– Local Sheriff

– Kansas State Attorney General’s Office

– Kansas State Ethics Department

– Kansas State Office of Research

– FBI

 Action that has been taken: – Ongoing

 Consequences of the above unethical behavior:

    – Employees are avoiding City/County email/ phone conversations by using direct employee  communication or private phones.

– Parties calling into the Bourbon County/City Hall are not made aware that their conversations are being recorded and therefore are innocent bystanders in the scheme of the unethical actions.

– Employees are not taking actions due to fear of retaliation and losing their jobs.

– Loss of elected and non elected employees who reported the actions, and became the target for doing so.

– Citizen mistrust, due to the action and inactions of those employees and officials in office.

– Citizen mistrust in employees and officials, who do not want to follow the Rule of Law and State Statutes, Policies, Procedures, Ordinances and Resolutions.

– Citizens in the community who do speak up are publicly shamed.

The Rule of Law does not oppress you. It gives you the Freedom in knowing the boundaries. Where as a community are we going to be, if this unethical behavior continues with our elected officials and city/county employees? 

 

Food, K-State Extension

Reduce Food Waste for the Earth and Your Wallet

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Clara Wicoff. Submitted photo 2023

 

 

By Clara Wicoff

Southwind Extension District

 

Earth Day is coming up, which makes it the perfect time to consider how you can reduce food waste. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates that 30% to 40% of the food supply in our country goes to waste. This waste has many negative impacts, including on the environment and on your wallet.

 

How does food waste affect the environment? Consider all of the resources that go into producing food and getting it to your plate. Those resources include energy, labor, land, water, and more. When we waste food, we aren’t just wasting the food itself; we are also wasting all of the resources that went into growing, processing, and transporting that food. Food waste has further negative impacts on the environment once we send it to the landfill. Why? Food rotting in landfills produces methane, which is a greenhouse gas. In addition to helping the environment, reducing food waste can also save you money. The USDA estimates that households can save $370 per person each year by reducing food waste.

 

So, what can you do? K-State Research and Extension has developed a fact sheet (available at bit.ly/FoodWasteFactSheet) which details steps that consumers can take to reduce food waste. Some of those steps include:

  • Shop your refrigerator first.
  • Shop from a list to reduce impulse purchases of food you won’t end up eating.
  • Store food properly to reduce spoilage. Make sure you have a thermometer in both your refrigerator and in your freezer to ensure these appliances are in good working condition. For quality and safety, the temperature in your refrigerator should be 40°F or less and the temperature in your freezer should be 0°F or less.

 

When working to reduce food waste, it is also important to remember the following rule: When in doubt, throw it out! If you aren’t sure if food is safe to eat, throw it away.

 

Want to learn more about how you can prepare food plans to reduce food waste? Join Nutrition, Food and Health Agent Clara Wicoff for a free educational program at the LaHarpe City Hall on April 17th at 6 PM or at the Neosho County Community College Student Union Cafeteria on April 27th at 1:30 PM. Topics covered will include meal planning, reducing a recipe, strategic grocery shopping, proper food storage, and more. Contact Clara with questions at [email protected] or 620-365-2242.

 

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Area News, K-State Extension

Aging with Attitude Regional Expo Set for April 28th

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member
Southwind Extension District…
Aging with Attitude Regional Expo Set for
April 28th
It’s taking place every day, for everyone….aging that is, and it is an opportunity! Let’s come together to learn and ensure we can all thrive as we age, on Friday, April 28th, for the Aging with Attitude Regional Expo.
The expo aims to promote positive attitudes about aging and educate on issues that support physical, mental, and financial health. K-State Research and Extension along with community partners invite you to connect with others for information and resources on April 28th. The event includes presentations, breakfast, activities, prizes, and a resource fair from 8:00 to 11:30a.m. at Foursquare Church, 98 Main Street, Parsons, KS.
Registration fee is $15 per attendee.
Register online at https://bit.ly/2023AWAexpo or by calling 620-625-8620.
 
Keynote Presentations include:
Affordable Day Trips
SEK Living Magazine will provide the inside scoop on fun, affordable day trips in Kansas!
Planning for Life Panel
Hear from financial, legal, and funeral professionals on estate planning essentials and get your questions answered!
Make the most of your life by attending this year’s regional expo!  For more information you may contact me at [email protected] or 620-625-8620.
Bourbon County, K-State Extension

2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing School in Bronson May 5-6

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Chad . His email is [email protected]
District Extension Agent, Crop production and Forage Management
Submitted photo.

 

The Southwind Extension District, in partnership with the Kansas Forage and Grassland Council and the Natural Resource Conservation Service, is hosting the 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing School in Bronson, Kansas on May 5 and 6.

The 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing School will be two-day workshop for beginning and experienced grazers, focusing on management-intensive grazing (MiG). MiG is a flexible approach to using a rotational grazing system where paddock size, stocking density, and grazing timing is adjusted based on available forage. Attendees will learn how MiG could benefit their operation, and how to implement MiG to their farm.

Day 1 topics will focus on agronomic principles to maintain healthy pastures using MiG. Attendees will learn how to correctly calculate stocking rates, how to match animal needs to available forages, and how to properly manage their grass pastures.

Day 2 topics will focus on using modern technology to build the infrastructure needed to practice MiG. Attendees will learn how to build and use electric fence, how to implement and manage water resources, and will get a glimpse of how using E-collars on grazing cattle could work in Southeast Kansas.

The 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing Schools will focus on sound grazing practices that can be implemented into any grazing operation, regardless if rotational grazing is being practiced. The program will focus on grazing cattle, but practices can be easily adjusted for any grazing animal.

Register now! The 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing Schools is limited to 35 farms/location. To register, contact the Southwind Extension District at 620-223-3720, or check out our website at www.southwind.k-state.edu/agriculture and click on the “Events” tab.

 

 

K-State Extension

Protect Yourself Against Current Scams

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Tara Soloman-Smith, Family and Wellness Agent, Sunflower District of Kansas State University’s Extension Office. Submitted photo.

 

Anyone can fall victim to a scam and many have.  We all need reminders now and then on how to detect and react to questionable inquiries.  There are a few items of concern I’d like to make you aware of and provide general reminders on how to protect yourself.

 

Please be aware of the following current events:

Letter offering millions of unclaimed life insurance policy

Letters circulating in Kansas claim to be from an attorney with law firms located in Canada, and state there are millions of dollars in an unclaimed life insurance policy available. The sender asks the recipient to partner with them to claim these monies.

This is a scam.  There are legitimate ways to check for both a life insurance policy benefit and unclaimed property through valid sources. Kansans can locate a life insurance policy using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Life Insurance Policy Locator at eapps.naic.org/life-policy-locator. To check for unclaimed property in your or a loved one’s name, visit the Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property division at kansascash.ks.gov/up_main.html or call 785-296-4165.

 

Plastic Medicare Card Marketing

A company called Platinum Marketing & Design is offering plastic cards for a fee.  Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) advises to be aware and guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card! Don’t share your number, laminate it, make copies, or let anyone else make a copy. If you need an official replacement card, you can print or order one at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

 

Flex Card Scam

Some Medicare Advantage (not Original Medicare) plans offer prepaid debit cards, also known as flex cards, to eligible members to cover some health-related expenses, which may include groceries.  False advertisements claim that Medicare is giving out flex cards containing several hundred dollars to apply toward food and other items.  It involves someone impersonating a Medicare representative who tries to encourage you to purchase a Medicare flex card.

The scam directs people to a website, where they’re asked to provide personal information that can be stolen, such as a Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account information.

 

 

The Federal Trade Commission Provides These Four Signs that It’s a Scam

  • Scammers pretend to be from an organization you know
  • Scammers say there is a problem or a prize
  • Scammers pressure you to act immediately
  • and Scammers toll you to pay in a specific way

 

Trust your gut.  Always trust your gut.  If you feel uncomfortable or are unsure, get yourself out of the situation or ask for help from a trusted family member or friend.  For more information, contact Tara Solomon-Smith, [email protected], or by calling 620-244-3826.

 

# # #

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director of K-State Research and Extension, Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts.

Government, Health Care, Kansas

Air Quality Advisory Issued for the Flint Hill Region

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Air Quality Advisory Issued for Parts of the Flint Hill Region Due to Seasonal Burning

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing an air quality advisory for the Flint Hill region, through Manhattan toward Nebraska.

KDHE activated the Kansas smoke modeling tool on March 1, prior to widespread burning in the Flint Hills. The computer models use fire data and current weather conditions to predict the potential contribution of smoke to downwind air quality problems.

Modeling has predicted conditions will worsen because of existing smoke combined with weather inversion patterns starting at 10 p.m. – 10 a.m. with a brief reprieve possible between noon and 5 p.m. and may continue for several days. The advisory took effect on April 7 for central and north-central counties in Kansas due to smoke from the Flint Hill seasonal burning between Topeka, Manhattan, and Salina, Kansas. When human health impacts are reduced, KDHE will rescind the advisory.

KDHE reminds Kansans that March and April are when large areas of the state’s rangelands are burned, especially within the Flint Hills. These burns help preserve the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, control invasive species, reduce woody encroachment from species such as Eastern Red Cedar, and provide better forage for cattle. Prescribed burning also reduces the risk of wildfires and effectively manages rangeland resources. Smoke from the burns can influence the air quality of downwind areas.

Smoke management techniques are vital to reduce air quality and health impacts for the most vulnerable individuals, including those with respiratory issues, pre-existing heart or lung diseases, children, and the elderly.

“Because air quality levels can change quickly, we are asking people to remain vigilant,” Doug Watson, meteorologist, said. “Prescribed burns release large amounts of particulate matter and other pollutants that can form ozone. Particulate matter and ozone can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals.”

Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing, and illnesses such as bronchitis.

If individuals live or have activities near these areas, they can take these steps to protect themselves when smoke is present:

  • Healthy people should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor exercise.
  • More vulnerable people should remain indoors.
  • Help keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and running air conditioners with air filters.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
  • Contact their doctor for symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.

For more information about the burning in the Flint Hills, the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan, April burn restrictions, and the smoke modeling tool, please visit http://ksfire.org.