Monthly Archives: January 2025

Obituary

Obituary of Donald Wunderly

Leave a comment

 

 

Donald Fredrick Wunderly, resident of rural Fort Scott, passed away January 4, 2025, at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri.

 

Born July 26, 1950, in Fort Scott to Fred and Julia (Brennan) Wunderly, Don graduated from FSHS in 1968. He was active in football, FFA and 4H. He attended University of Arkansas pursuing a Physical Education degree. He excelled in football and served as a team captain. Don went on to play football for the British Columbia Lions and briefly in the NFL.

 

He found true contentment on the family farm where he settled with his wife and children. He was known for his physical strength and unwavering work ethic as well as his willingness to help anyone in need. An avid outdoorsman, Don had a passion for hunting and fishing, and he enjoyed chopping firewood – a task he continued until shortly before his passing. He enjoyed simple pleasures like daily country drives with his wife, Peggy, always passing by neighboring family farms and stopping at Dayton Cemetery to pay respects to departed loved ones. Don also treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren, engaging in outdoor activities and playing pitch or dominos. He loved sharing stories around the bonfire.

 

Don married Mary Margaret (Peggy) Grillot in Saint Francis Church in St Paul, KS, on September 27, 1974. She survives of the home. Also surviving are his children; Megan Weddle, Fort Scott, and Nate (Jade) Wunderly of Overland Park, and grandchildren Kaeli (Clay) Holloway and Delani Weddle of Fort Scott, Brennan and Braylan Wunderly of Overland Park, and great-grandson Trey Holloway of Fort Scott.

 

Surviving siblings include a sister, Barbara Schmidt and brothers Mike Wunderly, Dan (Stephanie) Wunderly, and twin brother Ron Wunderly, all of Fort Scott, Joe (Marsha) Wunderly of Fulton, sister-in-law Linda Wunderly of Mapleton and numerous and beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Julia, sister; Pat Cook and brother Lawrence Wunderly.

 

Following cremation, Father Yancey Burgess will celebrate the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. The Rosary will be at 9:00 a.m. prior to services at the church. Private family interment will take place at a later date in the Dayton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Don Wunderly Memorial and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

 

Don’s family would like to extend special thanks to the nurses and supportive staff of Girard Medical Center and all of Research Medical Center.

 

 

K-State Extension

Make SMART Financial Goals in 2025

Leave a comment

 

Amanda Clasen- Community Vitality Agent    

January 2025

The past few years have been challenging, from a global pandemic to rising inflation rates. As a result, many people have had to put their financial goals on hold. But with 2025 upon us, now is the perfect time to prioritize your financial freedom. Setting clear financial goals is essential to successful budgeting and saving.

Recent surveys reveal that the top five financial resolutions for Americans this year are: paying off current debt, building a savings account, spend less, and make more money.

While most of these goals hit what a lot of us want to accomplish in 2025, it is important to make you’re your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based.

Once you’ve set your goals, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and put in the work. Here are some actionable tips to help you stay on track toward financial freedom this year:

  1. Write Your Goals Down

Research shows that writing down your goals increases your likelihood of success. Not only does it solidify your commitment, but sharing your goals with a trusted friend or accountability partner can provide extra motivation and encouragement. Having someone to check in with helps keep you focused and on track.

  1. Stick to Your Timeline

If your goal is to save a certain amount for that Special fund, make sure to have a set date in mind for that goal. Break it down into manageable monthly steps. It’s easy to push back deadlines, but doing so could delay your progress. Staying firm on your timeline helps you maintain momentum and ensures that you stay on course.

  1. Dream Big for the Future

While focusing on short-term goals is essential, don’t forget to think long-term. If paying off credit card debt is one of your objectives for 2025, consider the benefits of achieving that goal. Picture what your monthly budget will look like once your debt is cleared—perhaps you can finally take that dream vacation or buy that newer car you have had your eye on. Achieving short-term financial milestones will set you up for long-term success and peace of mind.

Wishing you a prosperous and financially secure New Year!

For more information, contact Amanda Clasen, Southwind Extension District- Community Vitality Agent at [email protected] or by calling 62-244-3826.

Business, Fort Scott, Youth

Young Entrepreneur: Dancer Kenna Miles

Leave a comment
This is part of series on young entrepreneurs in our community.
If you would like fortscott.biz to feature a young business person you know, please send name and contact info to [email protected]
Submitted graphic.
Kenna Miles is a 17-year-old Fort Scott High School student and Fort Scott native.
She is offering dance classes on Sundays starting on January 12 at Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Avenue.
For more information call 620.644.8050.
More details are given on Kenna’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571544970552
She and, Leslie Godden, her momanager, are offering drop-in classes, to remove the commitment of a monthly class.
“We know life is crazy, kids do many events and sports so we can’t always make every class time,” Godden said. “This way you can decide which class you can attend and miss out on those other full fees and obligations. Kenna is also a wrestler and is busy with wrestling season. This is also why for now we are choosing Sunday classes.”
Class️es are for girls and boys ages 2 to teen and are $20 each.
“We do NOT believe in an age defining your athlete’s ability,” Godden said. “Every dancer grows, develops, and learns at their own rate. For now, we are going to have three classes: Tinys are  2-6-year-olds, then  7-12 years, and also 13 years and up. You are not required to be in any of these classes just because you are the age of the class. If you are able to move classes due to skill – you will be moved. The key to learning is pushing yourself and getting out of your comfort zone.”
” Anyone and EVERYONE is welcome,” Godden said.  If a child has a disability “we probably need to know a little about the disability so we can help figure out a way to be able to help the student without singling them out or causing a distraction to the rest of the students. We would also offer a short private possibly to see how they do and if it’s something they’d be comfortable with. Then we would be better equipped to see how we can make their experience the best possible!”
“We will offer a sibling discount if more than 1 child wants to dance,” Godden said.
“Kenna has danced since age 4 competitively around the U.S.,” said her mother Godden. “I could tell when she was little she would dance around all the time. I would say she is gifted, it always came naturally to her.”
Kenna said she started dancing because of her mom’s friend, Brenna Stewart. “She only had boys and she put me in a dance class. After she passed away,  I did it for her. I wouldn’t be where I am with dancing, if not for her.”
Kenna interviewed and was on TV’s Nickelodeon show at age 10, and this was her first dancing job.
At age 12  she was involved in Abby Lee Miller’s dance competition TV show, at 14 she danced at a Kansas City Chief’s half-time game with their cheerleaders, after training for six months.
This past summer she created choreography for the Northeast High School Vikings dance team, creating four dances for them to use throughout the year.
Her plans for the future:
“I am going to try to get into a Division 1 College for a dance team or try out for the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders,” Kenna said. “I eventually was to travel and dance with music artists and later to open a dance studio and continue teaching.”
Government

USDA Invests in Kansas Domestic Biofuels Projects to Lower Costs and Increase American Energy Security

Leave a comment

 

 

TOPEKA, Jan. 10, 2025 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Director for Kansas Rural Development Christy Davis today announced that Rural Development is funding five projects to expand access to domestic biofuels. The $2,262,500 investment is made through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) and biofuel construction projects will happen in four Kansas communities.

“By expanding access to homegrown biofuels, we are making long-lasting investments that will create new market opportunities and revenue streams for Kansas producers” Davis said.

Today’s announcement is part of a larger national announcement that includes projects in 41 other states and 3 territories. The details of the Kansas projects are:

  • A $78,750 grant will help TT Station LLC install three E15 dispensers at one fueling station in Wichita. This project is estimated to increase the amount of ethanol sold by 76,767 gallons per year.
  • A $540,000 grant will help Prairie Eagle LLC install twelve E15 dispensers, and twelve E85 dispensers at four fueling stations in Wichita. This project is estimated to increase the amount of ethanol sold by 524,272 gallons per year.
  • A $159,000 grant will help Mo’s LLC install two E15 dispensers and one ethanol storage tank at one fueling station in Linn. This project is estimated to increase the amount of ethanol sold by 152,557 gallons per year.
  • A $953,750 grant will help CC of Hays Inc. install sixteen E15 dispensers, sixteen E85 dispensers, seven B20 dispensers, two ethanol storage tanks, and two biodiesel storage tanks at two fueling stations in Wilson and Hays. This project is estimated to increase the amount of biofuel sold by 2,129,805 gallons per year.
  • A $531,000 grant will help Cervs LLC install six E15 dispensers, six E85 dispensers, and one ethanol storage tank at one fueling station in Hays. This project is estimated to increase the amount of ethanol sold by 589,973 gallons per year.

Background

The HBIIP program provides grants to fueling station and distribution facility owners—including marine, rail, and home heating oil facilities—to expand access to domestic biofuels, a clean and affordable source of energy. These investments help business owners install and upgrade infrastructure such as fuel pumps, dispensers and storage tanks.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. Visit the Rural Data Gateway to learn how and where these investments are impacting rural America. To subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit the GovDelivery Subscriber Page. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

 

###

Government, Kansas

Kansas Fish Consumption Advisories For 2025

Leave a comment

 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) (collectively, “Kansas”) is issuing fish consumption advisories for 2025. The following advisories identify types of fish, or other aquatic species, that should be eaten in limited quantities or, in some cases, avoided altogether because of contamination. General advice and internet resources are provided to aid the public in making informed decisions regarding the benefits and risks associated with eating locally caught fish from Kansas waters.

Definitions/Servings:

Bottom-feeding fish: buffalo, carp, catfish, sturgeon and suckers

Shellfish: mussels, clams and crayfish

Serving size (skinless fish fillets before cooking):

  • Adults and children age 13 and older = 8 ounces
  • Children age 6 to 12 = 4 ounces
  • Children younger than 6 = 2 ounces

Statewide Mercury Advisories for Fish:

There are many health benefits associated with going outside and catching and consuming fish; however, all fish contain some amount of mercury. Consumption of mercury-rich fish can harm the development of fetuses, nursing babies, and growing children. As a result, anyone who routinely eats fish or serves fish to children, including store-bought fish, should carefully consider the type and amount of fish eaten. Therefore, mercury-sensitive individuals (women who are pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant, and children 17 or younger) should follow the guidelines presented below for eating Kansas-caught fish.

Fishing and Eating Guidelines:

  • Eat smaller portions – a fillet about the size of your palm.
  • Eat fish species with less mercury (see “Preferred Choice Fish” chart below).
  • If you don’t know what type or size of fish you’ve eaten, wait at least one week before eating fish again.
  • When fishing, keep fish shorter than your forearm (fingertips to elbow) or less than 20 inches, as regulations allow. Visit Fishing Regulations / Fishing / KDWP – KDWP (ksoutdoors.com) for more information.
  Preferred Choice Fish   Servings
  Blue and Channel Catfish

Common Carp

Crappies

White Bass, White Perch, Wiper, Striped Bass

Walleye, Sauger, Saugeye

Bullhead Catfish

Drum

Sunfish (Bluegill, Green, Redear, etc.)

    1 or 2 per week     

 

  Second Choice Fish   Servings
  Buffalo (Black, Bigmouth, Smallmouth)

Flathead Catfish

Bass (Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted)

    1 or 2 per month 

Reduce the recommendations above if you tend to keep fish larger than 20 inches to:

  • Preferred Choice Fish – not more than 1 serving per week
  • Second Choice Fish – not more than 1 serving per month

For specific questions or concerns about mercury in Kansas-caught fish, contact KDHE. For information about mercury in fish caught in other states, store-bought fish, and other types of seafood, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) EPA-FDA Advice about Eating Fish and Shellfish | US EPA website.

Waterbody-Specific Advisories for All Consumers:

Kansas recommends restricting consumption of bottom-feeding fish to 2 servings per month from the following location because of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs):

  • Little Arkansas River from the Main Street Bridge immediately west of Valley Center to the confluence with the Arkansas River in Wichita (Sedgwick County).

Kansas recommends restricting consumption of bottom-feeding fish to 1 serving per month from the following locations because of PCBs:

  • Cow Creek in Hutchinson and downstream to the confluence with the Arkansas River (Reno County).
  • K-96 Lake in Wichita (Sedgwick County).

Kansas recommends restricting consumption of bottom-feeding fish to 1 serving per month from the following location because of arsenic:

  • Mill Creek from Madison Road east of Morrowville to confluence with Little Blue River (Washington County).

Kansas recommends not eating specified fish or aquatic life from the following locations:

  • Antioch Park Lake South in Antioch Park, Overland Park (Johnson County); all fish due to pesticides: dieldrin, heptachlor epoxide, chlordane and dichlorophenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs).
  • Arkalon Park Lakes in Liberal (Seward County); Kansas recommends not eating any aquatic life because the lakes are sustained solely by treated municipal wastewater.
  • Arkansas River from the Lincoln Street dam in Wichita downstream to the confluence with Cowskin Creek near Belle Plaine (Sedgwick and Sumner counties); bottom-feeding fish due to PCBs.
  • Kansas River from Lawrence (below Bowersock Dam) downstream to Eudora at the confluence of the Wakarusa River (Douglas and Leavenworth counties); bottom-feeding fish due to PCBs.
  • Mill Creek from Washington (below 18th Road) downstream to confluence of Little Blue River (Washington County); shellfish due to arsenic.
  • Shoal Creek from the Missouri/Kansas border to Empire Lake (Cherokee County); shellfish due to lead and cadmium.
  • Spring River from the confluence of Center Creek to the Kansas/Oklahoma border (Cherokee County); shellfish due to lead and cadmium.

Waterbodies Affected by Harmful Algae Blooms:

To date, measured algal toxin levels in fish samples collected from waters affected by harmful algal blooms suggest the fish are safe to eat.  However, please take the following precautions:

  • Avoid skin contact with water.
  • Wear gloves when handling wet fish and equipment.
  • Rinse fish with clean water.
  • Remove skin from fillets and rinse with clean water prior to cooking or freezing.
  • Eat only skinless fillets.
  • Do not eat shellfish.

General Advice for Reducing Exposure to Chemicals in Fish:

  • Keep smaller fish to eat (regulations permitting) and let the big ones go.
  • Avoid eating fish parts other than fillets.
  • Trim fat from fillets and/or use cooking methods that allows fat to drip away.
  • Avoid subsistence fishing (relying on wild-caught fish for daily nutritional needs) in rivers within or immediately downstream of large urban/industrial areas.
  • Do not eat fish or aquatic life from wastewater outfalls, waste treatment lagoons or stormwater retention ponds.

Other information from KDHE, KDWP, EPA and the American Heart Association

To view the advisories online – and for information about KDHE’s Fish Tissue Contaminant Monitoring Program –  Fish Tissue Contaminant Monitoring Program | KDHE, KS.

For information about fishing in Kansas – including licensing, regulations, fishing reports and forecasts –  Fishing in Kansas | KDWP.

For information about the health benefits and risks of including fish in your diet, visit Eating fish twice a week reduces heart, stroke risk | American Heart Association.

For technical information regarding the U.S. EPA risk assessment methods used to determine advisory consumption limits, visit EPA Guidance for Developing Fish Advisories | US EPA.

###

                              

Opinion

A Mean Mom Encounter by Patty LaRoche

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

 

 

“Be Kind.”  Walk into almost any school, and you will see that reminder hanging on walls or recited in assemblies. For most of us aged ones, we were raised to be nice to others.  Now, because of bullying and the attacks on social media, the “Be Kind” message somehow has skipped much of this younger generation.  Parents, take note.

Yesterday, I, as usual, looked for the shortest line in the grocery store.  There wasn’t one.  The self-checkout lines dragged down the aisles, so I opted for the regular line.  The man in front of me told me go ahead of him since he had a full basket and was waiting for his wife who was in the bathroom, and I had only two items. I thanked him and, being kind myself, said that we should wait and see if she returned before he got to the cashier.  Then I noticed a clearing in the self-checkout row. My lucky day!

I left my line and walked a few yards to jump in that line.  My unlucky day.  The “clearing” was just a space left for regular shoppers to get through. The actual line, extending down the entire aisle, was longer than ever.  I returned to my place behind the kind man…at the same time a woman jumped ahead of me and signaled for her teenage son to bring their loaded cart from another aisle.

Referring to me, the son said to his mother, “Mom, she only has two things.  Let her go in front of us.”  Without looking at me, she answered, “She can go to the self-check line if she’s in a hurry.” The modeling done by that parent was distressing, and for a few seconds, I thought of saying that to the mean mom.  But God allowed for a different outcome.

The wife of the man in front of Mean Mom returned with their son, but instead of loading his groceries on the roller belt, he turned to me, speaking over Mean Mom and her son.  “You go ahead of us.  You were here first.”  (Which, technically, I was… until, that is, I wasn’t.)

“You are so kind,” I answered, moving ahead of his family. “Thank you so much” (which I repeated louder than I probably needed to after paying for my two bottles of salad dressing).

Why is it so many people are so self-absorbed that they ignore opportunities to help?  We know that doesn’t need to be the case.  Take my granddaughter, Mo, for example, who was driving to Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on her way to Wyoming.  With blizzard conditions late at night, she opted to drive slowly behind a semi-truck ahead of her, until, that is, a moose side-swiped her car.  When she pulled onto the shoulder of the road, she became stuck in the snow.

Soon, Mo saw a woman (who had pulled over ahead of her) running back to see if she was okay.  Then, two truckloads of Spanish-speaking men pulled in behind her.  When their trucks couldn’t pull her out, they crawled under her car to scoop out the snow.  A man hauling a trailer tried to tow her out, and even a cement truck driver came to her aid.  Nothing worked, but it was sacrificial Kindness in action. Fortunately, her uncle and his wife live only an hour away and were able to come to her aid.

Galatians 5:22 lists the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control.  As 2025 gets underway, perhaps we all can make that our New Year’s goal.                                                                                                                                                          Yes, I think that should win out over Mean Mom’s way, everyday.

Entertainment, Gordon Parks Museum, Kansas

Gordon Parks Museum Featured in 2025 KS Travel Guide

Leave a comment

Kansas Tourism Unveils its 2025

Kansas Travel Guide

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced the release of the highly anticipated 2025 Kansas Travel Guide, a comprehensive and free resource designed to inspire exploration of the Sunflower State. The guide is available in both print and digital format, just in time for planning your 2025 Kansas adventures.

The Kansas Travel Guide highlights the state’s remarkable attractions, vibrant culture, rich history, unique lodging and breathtaking landscapes and scenery. Sections about each of Kansas’ six distinct travel regions highlight the unique personality and experiences that make each area special.

Inside the guide, readers and travelers also will find:

  • Must-see attractions that include a collection of museums, scenic byways and hidden gems that make Kansas unforgettable
  • Pre-planned day trip itineraries, perfect for the busy traveler who enjoys hitting the road without the stress of planning
  • Insider tips for local favorites, dining recommendations and lodging options to enrich every visit
  • Special features including a collection of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and exploring Kansas’ 28 state parks.

“The travel guide reflects the heart and soul of Kansas, a place where history, adventure and community come together,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “We invite everyone to explore our state and discover the warmth and beauty that makes Kansas a must-visit destination.”

To order your free copy of the 2025 Kansas Travel Guide, click here or call the Kansas Tourism office at (785) 296-2009.

About Kansas Tourism:

The mission of Kansas Tourism is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination. Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, approves tourist signage applications, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education and support. 

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

###

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Meets January 14 at 7 p.m.

Leave a comment

01-25 informational items

CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by

 

ROLL CALL: 

___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing –

 

SEK Multi-County Health Department, Hannah Geneva –

 

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Sally Johnson – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of December 11, 2024 Regular Council Meeting
  2. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

KRWA Conference on 3/25-27/2025

 

Clerk Report:  Danea Esslinger  

gWorks issues –

Website Hosting

Rabies Clinic?

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilman Kelly –

Councilwoman Pemberton –

Councilwoman Pritchett –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

Warehouse project –electric proposal

 

SEED Grant – formally announce winners on January 17, if you want to know if we are awarded, be here at 10AM.

 

Park electric –

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

 

 

ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________

Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission Meeting on Jan. 7

Leave a comment

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of January 7, 2025                                      Regular Meeting

 

A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was not streamed live on YouTube due to technical difficulties, but a version is now available.

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Commissioners Tim VanHoecke, Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells, and Kathryn Salsbury (via teleconference) were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer.

 

In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Jason Pickert/FSPD Chief of Police, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement Technician, Jessica Oliphant/BakerTilly (via teleconference).

 

  1. Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and M. Wells said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda  (Time stamp 3:20)

MOTION:  VANHOECKE moved to approve the Agenda with the addition of Item K/New Business/Action Items – Consideration of City Liaison to REDI.  WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Appointment of Mayor of Fort Scott 2025  (Time stamp 4:59)

MOTION:  DANCER moved to nominate VANHOECKE for Mayor.  SALSBURY seconded.

 

SALSBURY, VANHOECKE, DANCER – YES     WELLS, OLSON – NO

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-2.

 

Discussion was had regarding the nomination process in the Code of Procedures for the Commission of the City of Fort Scott.

 

FARMER stated that action was already approved on appointing the Mayor. Further discussion led to the agreement to continue with the process stated in the Code of Procedures.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to nominate WELLS for Mayor.  WELLS seconded.

 

WELLS, OLSON – YES                   SALSBURY, VANHOECKE, DANCER – NO

 

MOTION FAILED 2-3

 

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to nominate OLSON for Mayor.  OLSON seconded.

 

WELLS, OLSON – YES                   SALSBURY, VANHOECKE, DANCER – NO

 

MOTION FAILED 2-3

 

It was determined that the majority of votes in the motion for VANHOECKE resulted in a majority.  TIMOTHY J. VANHOECKE is appointed Mayor.

 

Appointment of President of the City Commission of Fort Scott (Time stamp 14:23)

MOTION:  WELLS moved to nominate OLSON for President. VANHOECKE seconded.

 

WELLS, OLSON, SALSBURY, VANHOECKE – YES                DANCER – NO

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to nominate WELLS for President.  WELLS seconded.

 

OLSON, DANCER, WELLS – YES                       SALSBURY, VANHOECKE – NO

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-2

 

MOTION:  VANHOECKE moved to nominate SALSBURY for President.      OLSON seconded.

 

WELLS, DANCER, OLSON, VANHOECKE – YES                   SALSBURY – ABSTAINED

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-0

 

Code of Ethics – Ordinance No. 3780  (Time stamp 17:49)

MOTION:  WELLS moved to table the consideration of the Code of Ethics Ordinance No. 3780 until the changes agreed upon last year could be executed into the new document. DANCER seconded the motion.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

ACTION:  FARMER will execute the document and provide to all Commissioners prior to the January 21, 2025, meeting.

 

Code of Procedures for the Commission of the City of Fort Scott  (Time stamp 19:14)

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the Code of Procedures as presented.

WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

 

 

 

 

Appointment of Commission Representative of the Fort Scott Land Bank  (Time stamp 20:38)

MOTION:  DANCER moved to nominate WELLS.    SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Appointment of Commission Representative of the Fort Scott Housing Authority  (Time stamp 21:43)

MOTION:  WELLS moved to nominate VANHOECKE.    OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Appointment of Commission Representative of the Fort Scott Public Library  (Time stamp 22:32)

WELLS expressed willingness to continue in the role.

MOTION:  DANCER moved to nominate WELLS.   OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Appointment of Commission Representative to Healthy in All Practices Commission  

(Time stamp 23:58)

Salsbury is current representative and stated schedule conflict with their meeting time.

MOTION:  DANCER moved to table the item until January 21, 2025.

OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Appointment of Commissioner Liaison to the Street Advisory Board  (Time stamp 25:34)

MOTION: OLSON moved to appoint WELLS.  SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Consideration to Appoint or Remove Commission Representative to REDI  (Time stamp 30:41)

Discussion about having a city liaison for properties within REDI such as importance of monitoring properties for city projects. DANCER is interested and will check his calendar for availability before volunteering for the position.  VANHOECKE believed the need to resolve the issue since there was an existing appointment.  FAMER confirmed.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to table the consideration until the January 21, 2025, meeting.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Approval of Consent Agenda  (Time stamp 31:02)

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1375-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of December 11. 2024 – January 2, 2025, – $581,356.50

–  Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 17678 – Project No. 24-414 – Horton St. & 6th St. Improvements – Payroll – $28,686.16

–  Approval of Renewed Cereal Malt Beverage (CMB) License for 2025 Consumption on the Premises – Outpost 13 West LLC – 13 W. Oak

–  Consideration of Pay Request No. 6 – Heck & Wicker, Inc. – Project No. 24-414 Horton Street & 6th Street Improvements – $126,029.60

–  Approval of Resolution No. 1-2025 – A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE OFFICIAL CITY NEWSPAPER FOR THE ENSUING TERM OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

–  Approval of Resolution No. 2-2025 – A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE OFFICIAL DEPOSITIORES FOR THE PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

–  Approval of Resolution No. 3-2025 – A RESOLUTION FOR EXEMPTION FROM GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRACTICES UNDER K.S.A. 1120A.

 

MATKIN questioned Pay Request #6 to Earles Engineering ($126,029.60). DICKMAN confirmed that the invoice did not include the overlay.

 

Discussion of Resolution No. 3-2025.  WELLS has an issue with the Exemption from Generally Accepted Accounting Practices Under K.S.A. 1120A.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the Consent Agenda minus the approval of the Exemption from GAAP.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to table consideration of Resolution No. 3-2025 until January 21, 2025, for further discussion with the auditor.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Status of 323 W. Wall  (Time stamp 35:38)

KRUGER stated the condition has worsened, more roof damage and debris present.

 

Discussion was had on contacting the owner and potential buyers. KRUGER stated that the owner has no money or plans to address the building. Homeowner is concerned about losing the property due to taxes.

 

WELLS stated that three contractors showed interest, but follow-up was not completed.

 

Discussion was had on the Land Bank’s role on properties and structures. Current property owner owes the city approximately $12,000 to $13,000 in back taxes.  WELLS stated that grants and tax credits

 

 

may be available to facilitate property transfer and that the owner may consider giving property to a contractor willing to restore it.

 

WELLS stated that two contractors have been approached regarding property restoration. One contractor expressed interest but has too many current projects.

 

ACTION:  WELLS stated that he would be willing to take the lead on contacting interested parties and report back with updates on contractor interest by the next meeting in January.

 

Reporting of Demolition Award – 1105 S. Scott  (Time stamp 43:50)

Demo for 1105 S. Scott has been awarded by the City Manager to Dave’s Demo for $3,500.00. There were (2) other bids: Foxwell Holdings at $5,000.00 and Skitch’s Inc. at $6,427.00. The winner is ready to begin demolition.

 

Reports and Comments

 

City Manager Comments: (Time stamp 44:33)

–  Joint work session – City Commissioners and County Commissioners scheduled for Thursday, January 16, 2025, 6:00PM at Memorial Hall.

–  Public Works Crew commended for handling recent storm issues.

–  Work Session for 118 E Wall postponed to Monday, January 13, 2025.

–  Dance Party scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025, 7:00PM-10:00PM at Memorial Hall. Cover charge of $5.00 to attend.

 

Engineer Comments: (Time stamp 48:09)

– Horton Street & 6th Street Project Update – need to review Substantial Completion Date

 

Commissioner Comments

OLSON (Time stamp 49:30)

WELLS (Time stamp 50:48)

SALSBURY (Time stamp 52:16)

DANCER (Time stamp 53:39)

VANHOECKE (Time stamp 59:02)

 

City Attorney Comments  (Time stamp 59:50)

Requested a call for an Executive Session

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to amend the agenda to allow for the Executive Session.  WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION: WELLS moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion of legal matters pursuant to the attorney-client privilege exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). In the meeting will be the (5) Commissioners (SALSBURY via phone), City

 

Attorney, City Manager and City Engineer.  The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:20PM. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to come out of Executive Session at 7:20PM.  DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:21PM.  OLSON seconded.

 

JANUARY 7, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:21PM.

 

 

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the Dec. 11 Uniontown City Council Meeting

Leave a comment

The Regular Council Meeting on December 11, 2024 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Savannah Pritchett, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Danea Esslinger.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Appoint and administer Oath of Office Savannah Pritchett as council member to fill vacant position.

 

Administer Oath of Office to Danea Esslinger, City Clerk/Municipal Court Clerk.

 

KMGA Prepay Project, Dixie Riedel – Dixie unable to attend due to meeting date change. Council to review Slide Show

Presentation and email questions to Clerk to forward to Dixie before the January meeting.

 

Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing – Cost estimates not completed yet, table until January meeting.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson was absent but a written report was presented for the November 2024 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $305,810.54, Receipts $32,360.86, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $34,792.15, Checking Account Closing Balance $290,603.25. Bank Statement Balance $302,036.21, including Checking Account Interest of $63.57, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $11,432.96, Reconciled Balance $290.603.25.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $37,813.87, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $21,652.34, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $39,625.68, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $389,695.14. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $651.22, and Utility CDs $1,993.05 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $2,644.27.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of November 2024, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  November Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvements-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvements-Streets $2,500.00 for Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of November $15,207.29, Year-to-Date Net Income $55,124.05.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $111,087.83 (90.0%), Expenditures $114,731.66 (70.6%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $32,108.71 (86.9%), Expenditures $28378.65 (67.4%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $104,804.74 (71.5%), Expenditures $109,096.85 (61.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $205,995.81 (105.3%), Expenditures $176,750.57 (57.1%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,175.91 (112.5%), Expenditures $7,183.05 (70.9%).  The December 2024 payables to date in the amount of $25,405.87 were presented.  The invoices from Homestead Tech, KMGA, Johnson-Schowengerdt, council pay and payroll have not been received/completed by meeting time.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of November 12, 2024 Regular Council Meeting and November 19, 2024 Special Council Meeting.
  • Treasurer’s Reports, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported that Bill Griffith would like rock or something on the railroad right-of-way where county cleaned out ditch. Mayor Jurgensen suggested to try 5 to 6 inches of milling.

 

Clerk Esslinger informed the council that gWorks is not working as promised.

She asked the council if can waive the penalty for utility billings this month due to slow US Postal delivery.  We received several calls that billings had not been received by the 10th.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to inform unpaid accounts of waiving of penalty due to slow postal delivery, and inform them of amount due; penalty will be applied if not paid January 10th.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Pritchett– nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilwoman Pemberton – there is a need a for additional electrical outlets for Christmas lights in the Park. Discussion followed, and Council directed Superintendent Rich to get quotes for additional electrical outlets.

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – brought up items covered in other sections.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Pickleball Court Placemaking Project – Councilwoman Pemberton gave report that they will put in the poles for the fence soon, but will wait for Spring to put up the fence.

 

Streets/FEMA – Mayor Jurgensen asked if we know when Bettis Asphalt will be here to complete warranty work.  Clerk Esslinger stated that Bettis will be here when they can. FEMA have the information and is still working on it.

 

Warehouse project – Superintendent Rich stated that the warehouse skin is about completed. Mayor Jurgensen let Council know that Evergy is coming soon to advise us where the electricity line will be put that will be for the warehouse. Discussion followed.  Getting electrical bids for the inside of the warehouse building was discussed. The sale of the Weed Barn was also discussed as the proceeds will be earmarked for the warehouse.

 

SEED Grant – Grant application was submitted 11/4/24. Grant will be awarded in December, and Clerk Esslinger has not heard back yet.

 

NEW BUSINESS

CMB 2025 License renewal – Discussion followed.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to allow the CMB 2025 License renewal

 

Sunday CMB hours of sales- Discussion followed.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to approve Ordinance No. 205 amending the start time to sell CMB to 9AM.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:19PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 8:19.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:32PM.

 

Superintendent Rich called in at 8:20, out at 8:32. Open meeting resumed at 8:32.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:07PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 9:07.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to convert unallocated benefit stipend to an hourly rate of $2.88 effective 1/1/2025 and add $1.00/hr merit increase effective immediately for City Superintendent.

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 9:20PM.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

FS Downtown Meet and Greet is January 14

Leave a comment

Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greet scheduled for January 14th!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces a Downtown Meet & Greet will be held Tuesday, January 14th at City State Bank, 202 Scott Ave., from 8 to 9am.

These informal, quarterly meetings are hosted by the Chamber for downtown business owners, representatives, and community members to network and share ideas on events, promotions and anything related to downtown.

Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served.
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US