Dr. Robert Wayne Stark, known affectionately as Wayne to his friends and family, passed away on August 19, 2025, due to heart complications. Born on April 14, 1937, in Blue Mound, Kansas, the son of Nolan Vern Stark and Mary Maxine Stark.
Wayne’s life was a beacon to all who knew him and to the Lord Jesus Christ. He departed this world in Fort Scott, Kansas, surrounded by the warmth of his family’s love.
Wayne grew up in the rolling plains of Kansas and carried the spirit of his homeland throughout his life. He graduated Fort Scott High School in 1955 and furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he completed a 2-year Farm & Industry Short Course.
At the age of 22, after attending a revival service at Grace Baptist Tabernacle, he knelt down in the milking barn on their dairy farm and asked Jesus to forgive him of his sins and to be his Lord and Savior. Wayne’s faith played a central role in his life, guiding him to the Arlington Baptist Seminary, where he earned his Bachelors of Divinity in 1965. His profound impact on the community and unwavering dedication to his faith were recognized with an Honorary Doctorate of Theology degree from Salt Lake Baptist College in 2015.
Wayne was also deeply patriotic and served his country in the US Army National Guard in Kansas, Wisconsin and Texas from 1955 to 1964.
Wayne was a man of many talents and passions. He found joy in the demanding life of dairy farming and his entrepreneurial spirit shone through as he owned and operated several businesses. Wayne’s calling as a pastor and evangelist was a testament to his faith-centered life, touching the hearts and souls of countless individuals. He pastored churches in both Chapman and LaCrosse, KS. He invested the last years of his life traveling the Western United States as an Evangelist with the Baptist Circuit-Riding Mission. He loved helping small congregations of believers in rural areas, Wayne often said, “There is no small work with God”. He was a faithful member of First Bible Baptist Church in Great Bend, KS.
Beyond his professional and spiritual accomplishments, Wayne was a family man at his core. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Nina Sue Gaunt-Stark, brother, Dick Stark and sister, Nancy Erwin. His legacy continues through his son, James Stark; daughters, Jennifer Ballou and Julie Buchta; step-son, Neal Morgan; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; fifteen step-great grandchildren; and six step-great-great grandchildren, all of whom will miss him deeply.
An avid outdoorsman, Wayne found great joy in hunting and fishing. His skill and passion for training and showing Welsh ponies were renowned.
To know Wayne was to know a man whose life was a reflection of the values he held dear – friendliness, hard work, and an unshakeable faith. His presence was a comforting and steady force, and he approached each day with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit ready to serve others. He would want everyone to know the promise of eternal life though faith in Jesus Christ who sacrificed himself on the cross to offer forgiveness of our sins!
As we bid farewell to Wayne, we do so with heavy hearts, yet we are comforted by the hope of the resurrection of Jesus Christ knowing that we will see him again!
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, August 25th at the Bethel Community Church west of Ft. Scott.
Burial will follow in the Pleasant View Cemetery at Blue Mound, Kansas.
The family will receive friends on Monday at 1:00 P.M. prior to the service.
Memorials are suggested to the Baptist Circuit-Riding Mission and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
A power delivery project, many years in the making, has started transmitting energy through Bourbon County.
NextEra Energy Transmission (NEET) – Southwest began producing energy over the 92-mile, 345-kV Wolf Creek – Blackberry transmission line on July 16, 2025, according to Lillie Zeng, spokesperson for NEET-Southwest.
The project was within budget and nearly five months ahead of Southwest Power Pool’s (SSP) required in-service date. The project was completed within three years, according to the spokesperson.
This is the second of three competitively awarded transmission projects in SPP that the company is building, she said.
“NextEra Energy Transmission – Southwest is proud to support SPP and its customers in Kansas and Missouri with a transmission line that will help enhance grid reliability and support economic growth in the region.”
The NEET-Southwest field office is at 2522 Richards Road, Fort Scott, KS 66701.
“We are in the process of hiring local office staff. In addition, NEET Southwest has access to approximately 70 affiliate technical staff located in the project area,” according to the spokesperson.
The project included a diagonal power line through the southwest part of Bourbon County as noted in the graphic from NextEra.
The process can be summed up this way:
Electric power is generated by nuclear energy at the Wolf Creek Nuclear Plant near Burlington, Kansas in Coffee County.
The power is moved via transmission power lines to the southwest, to the Blackberry Electrical Substation, just over the state line in Missouri.
There, high voltage power is then stepped down to a lower voltage and distributed over power lines to neighborhoods, businesses, and residences, according to https://www.nexteraenergytransmission.com/subsidiaries/neetsw/projects/wolf-creek-blackberry
This project is a new 94-mile, 345-kilovolt (kV) regulated transmission line that runs from the Wolf Creek substation (Evergy Energy) in Kansas to the Blackberry substation, Associated Electric Cooperative Inc.(AECI) in Missouri.
About Wolf Creek
Wolf Creek Nuclear Generating Station, Kansas’s only nuclear power plant, has been providing energy to Kansans and Missourians since 1985, according to https://www.evergy.com/landing/wolf-creek-nuclear-generating-station
The Wolf Creek site is about 10,500 acres, and 1,500 acres of company land are reserved and managed for wildlife. Wolf Creek employs approximately 750 employees, many of whom have worked at the site since the plant began providing electricity to the nation’s power grid more than three decades ago, according to the Evergy website.
Wolf Creek provides electric generation for Evergy and generates about 1,200 megawatts of electricity, which is enough energy to power more than 800,000 homes, according to the Evergy website.
Wolf Creek generates 20.7 percent of Kansas’ electricity, and 36 percent of its emissions-free electricity, according to the NextEra website.
Evergy is an electric service provider in Bourbon County.
“Evergy and Next Era are both members of the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which helps manage the power grid and energy markets across 14 states in the middle of the country, including Kansas and Missouri,” said Evergy Director of Corporate Communications Gina Penzig. “SPP keeps track of how electricity moves through the system and helps ensure coordination among area utilities.”
“The Wolf Creek–Blackberry Transmission line simply connects to Evergy’s equipment and helps send electricity into the power grid,” Penzig said. “The SPP chose Next Era to build this line through a competitive bid process. Even though the line connects to Evergy’s substation and electricity flows through it, Next Era owns and operates the line.”
The project is part of the 2019 Integrated Transmission Plan approved by SPP in October 2019 to address the need for a more reliable and cost-effective grid. This project will reduce congestion and provide market efficiencies and benefits to ratepayers, according to the NextEra website.
According to NextEra, the project benefits are:
- “Leads to lower electricity costs for customers
- Enhances the reliability and resiliency of the electric grid
- Creates job opportunities in the short and long term
- Spurs investment in the local economy during construction
- Supports public health and safety through access to reliable electricity
“Environmental & Visual Considerations
Conducted rigorous environmental analyses to limit impacts on wildlife, sensitive habitats, and natural resources
Coordinated with federal and state agencies to identify protected species found along the route
Selected monopole structures to minimize tree clearing and agricultural impacts
Incorporated considerations for visual impacts into the routing study.”
CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING
A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.
The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer, Dyllon Olson, and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.
In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Pete Earles/Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Pete Allen, Lindsay Hill/FSCC, Michael Hoyt, Rob Hansen, Rory Chaplin, Alyson Goodwin/InSite Real Estate Group, Nathan Eady/Senior Manager, Economic Development & Policy–Amazon, Kirk Sharp/Gordon Parks Museum, Rachel French/Fort Scott Forward, Lewis Nihiser and Thomas Metcalf Jr/Sons of the American Legion.
VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and DANCER said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda
MOTION: OLSON moved to approve the amended agenda VAN HOECKE seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consent Agenda
– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1390-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of July 23, 2025 – August 12, 2025 – $662,802.14
– Approval of Minutes: Special Meeting of July 30, 2025; Special Meeting of August 4, 2025; and Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025.
– Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18159 – 21-303 – Davis Lift Station – Addendum No. 4 ($11,600.00) and Addendum No. 5 ($18,600.00) – Total $30,3200.00
– Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18141 – EEI No. 25-12 – East National Project Phase I – Survey 100% ($6,400.00) and Preliminary Design 12.5% ($12,937.50) – Total $19,337.50
– Request to Pay – Cardinal Sitework – Application for Payment No. 2 (FINAL) – Charles Street Lift Station EEI No. 24-003B – $3,587.45
– July Financials
MOTION: OLSON moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Public Comment
Lindsay Hill/FSCC – Thanked the commission for originally approving the land donation for the FRAME grant, however, the college will have to decline the land because real estate agents advised that they would likely lose money building homes in that location. HILL stated she is now the grant administrator for the college, replacing Sonia Guganani. VAN HOECKE requested that a representative of the university be present to confirm land suitability for future infrastructure assistance requests. HOYT asked if the college had any written specifications for properties that could be shopped for during the upcoming tax sale. HILL responded that they have found a property that will work best for the college and will be coming back to the city to ask for assistance with infrastructure.
MOTION: DANCER moved to revisit the City’s commitment to providing infrastructure development for the FRAME Grant under Item IX, New Business, Item E. OLSON seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Appearances
Rachel Carpenter delivered a Tourism Report, noting that since May she has focused on promoting Fort Scott through history and culture, outdoor recreation, relaxation, and events. She reported on bus tours, events, and downtown revitalization, along with expanded marketing efforts through social media, the updated Visit Fort Scott website, radio/TV ads, and printed materials. Grants have supported promotional videos and downtown signage improvements. Upcoming goals include hosting influencer groups, expanding social media, and addressing ongoing signage challenges with KDOT. Carpenter has attended tourism conferences, partnered with the Chamber, and is exploring collaboration with Visit KC. Staff commended her leadership, and future plans include applying for a World Cup marketing grant, working with FSCC on a December initiative, and using the Placer data tool to strengthen targeted marketing.
Discussion was had about updating the tourism signs on Hwy 69, connecting with the upcoming African American Tourism Conference and the previous Tourism Advisory Board.
Thomas Metcalf Jr. – 3rd Annual Sons of American Legion Car Show – August 30, 2025 – Request for Temporary Street Closure – National Ave. between Oak St. and Pine St. The event includes cars, trucks, motorcycles, and a kids class, with trophies and cash prizes. MATKIN wanted to make it about drug awareness for kids and recommended closing off the street north of H and H to the alley to prevent traffic near the pavilion.
MOTION: WELLS moved to close the recommended streets, including Fort Scott Boulevard from National to the alleyway. SALSBURY seconded.
ACTION: VAN HOECKE confirmed that the Sons of the American Legion will work with the City for the requested barricades.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Unfinished Business
Public Hearing #1
MOTION: WELLS moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Planning Commission Case No. 1052 – Conditional Use Permit – 2400 S. Main – Amazon Storage Unit – Recommended by Planning Commission on July 9, 2025 – Tabled from August 5, 2025
Transcript of Public Hearing – Attachment 1 – Amazon representative, Nathan Eady presented Amazon’s proposal for a storage unit (ASU) at 2400 South Main Street by telephone. The project aims to improve customer delivery service in rural areas. The ASU will extend delivery to new zip codes not currently serviced by Amazon. It will rely on additional flex drivers, potentially increasing employment and revenue. Current freight flex drivers will continue to receive packages as before. EADY anticipates one to two box trucks per day, smaller than semi-truck trailers. The ASU will not affect current zip codes, only new areas not currently serviced. The goal is to have a centralized deposit place for packages to expand flex deliveries, not downsize or eliminate jobs. The Planning Commission approved the Conditional Use Permit for the ASU on July 9, 2025.
FRENCH addressed the Commission and commented that examples of areas not currently serviced include Uniontown and Redfield.
MOTION: WELLS moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: DANCER moved to approve the Conditional Use Permit for the Amazon Storage Unit recommended by the Planning Commission. VAN HOECKE seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Public Hearing #2
MOTION: DANCER moved to open the public hearing. VAN HOECKE seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Vacation of Alley – Lewis Nihiser – Revisit requested by City Commission – Transcript of Public Hearing – Attachment 2 – The proposal to vacate an undeveloped alley in exchange for a lift station easement raised concerns among commissioners about setting a precedent, utility access, and the City’s view on giving up land. WELLS preferred a lease over a trade, others emphasized the need for a consistent process. One speaker urged a site visit and suggested moving the discussion along.
MOTION: DANCER moved to close the public hearing. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: DANCER moved to vacate or abandon the alley in question as a trade for the easement that we did not give you for the lift station. SALSBURY seconded. VAN HOECKE, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS and OLSON voted no.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Further discussion was had about the City’s position on street and alley vacations.
VAN HOECKE called for Point of Order. The Commission agreed return to the next order of business on the agenda.
Action Items:
Consideration of Appointment of (1) Member for FSHPRC – Tabled from August 5, 2025
DILLON reported that the Historic Preservation Resource Commission’s process is continuing, with two additional resumes submitted for review of appointment. Discussion was had regarding applicant eligibility and documentation, as some confirmed candidates failed to submit resumes or complete applications, one lacked service on the Design Review Board, and one did not live within city limits—a stipulated requirement. Commissioners noted inconsistencies between advertised requirements and state documentation needs, with clarification that either an application or resume suffices, though residency must be established. One applicant’s residency was questioned, but their voting status, tax payments, and home ownership were cited as evidence.
WELLS called the question to select (1) of the (2) applicants presented for the remaining position on the FSHPRC.
MOTION: WELLS moved to accept Kathy Dancer as the final applicant.
OLSON, WELLS, SALSBURY and VAN HOECKE voted yes. DANCER abstained.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
DANCER requested that in the future, the Commission stick to the requirements that are published.
Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2025 RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 121 S. MARGRAVE – Tabled from April 15, 2025
KRUGER confirmed that the work has not been completed as agreed upon with the extension. WELLS owns the property and asked for a further extension until February to get the project going in earnest or he will demolish the structure at his expense. KRUGER stated that the structure has been on the Codes list since July 2024 (prior to WELLS ownership).
MOTION: OLSON moved to table Resolution No. 9-2025 until February of 2026 with the stipulation that the house will be boarded up, the windows, the entry, anything conducive to an outside intruder getting in. If Codes has any further problems that they feel it is an actual imminent threat, they’ll bring it back to the Commission immediately. SALSBURY seconded.
DANCER, SALSBURY and OLSON voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no. WELLS abstained.
MOTION CARRIED 3-1.
ACTION: WELLS will address the safety concerns discussed.
New Business
Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Gordon Parks Mural at Main & Wall (Wilder House Building) – Approved by Design Review Board – SHARP presented the mural project funded by the Kansas Arts Commission, to be installed on the north side of the Sunshine Boutique featuring Gordon Parks on a horse with a quote about Fort Scott. Created by artist Cbabi Bayoc. FRENCH informed the Commission that the mural was approved by SHPO, it will be installed on panels attached in the mortar and unveiled on October 4th during the Gordon Parks Celebration, with Commissioner Wells and Chase Halsey helping with installation.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Gordon Parks mural at Main St. and Wall St. on the Wilder House Building that was approved by the Design Review Board. DANCER seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes. WELLS abstained.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
Consideration of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive Package 2026
DILLON presented the Developer Partnership Incentive Program, offering up to $7,500 per home for utilities and sidewalks, performance-based payments upon home completion and sale, and a limit of five homes per developer annually. The program includes a $1,000 neighborhood bonus for targeted areas, marketing support, land bank partnerships, a nine-month construction timeline with a three-month extension possible, and a $50,000 annual cap was the proposal. The money for this will come from Economic Development fund.
MOTION: DANCER moved to approve the 2026 City of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive package as presented. OLSON seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration of Sales Tax Ballot Question
MATKIN stated that five options were available for consideration. WELLS presented Option #6 which would be (3) separate ballot questions: 0.45% for streets, 0.1% for parks and 0.1% for public safety. Separating them out would equal .65% if all passed. Further discussion was had on all options.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to accept option one which is the 80/10/10 on the ½ cent sales tax. OLSON seconded. OLSON, DANCER, VAN HOECKE and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS voted no.
MOTION CARRIED 4-1.
Discussion with Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc.
WELLS requested that Earles Engineering appear before the Commission. Pete Earles addressed the Commission. WELLS praised Earles Engineering for its work on the wastewater projects but raised concerns with street projects, particularly the overlay project where the contractor failed to follow the original two-lift plan, leading to drainage issues and insufficient oversight. Questions were raised about the roles of the firm’s representatives and City staff, with Commissioners noting disappointment that an inexperienced supervisor was assigned to the Horton Street project, the City’s largest road project, which resulted in errors. In response, Earle’s Engineering pledged to assign only highly experienced personnel moving forward, naming inspectors with 30–40 years of experience, and committed to addressing concerns directly.
Consideration to rescind the Frame Grant Infrastructure approval
MOTION: OLSON moved to rescind the FRAME Grant Project at 4th and Arthur and the extended infrastructure projects that were accompanying it. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Reports and Comments
CITY ENGINEER
– E. National Project Update
– Davis Lift Station – Force Main – Bid coming
– CCLIP bid – Advertise in September, open in November to begin early spring
– Discussion of E. National as option for overpass
CITY ATTORNEY – Positive comments by visitors about noticeable progress in Fort Scott
CITY MANAGER
– No comments
COMMISSIONER WELLS
– 3rd Street traffic light
– Lights at skate park
– Chip Seal Project remedies
ACTION: City Clerk will put Chip Seal Project remedies on September 2, 2025, Agenda
– Moody Building status
COMMISSIONER OLSON
– Reminder for school traffic safety
COMMISSIONER DANCER
– ADM update from 4/15/2025 handouts on website
– WELLS requested update numbers for ADM to be posted
COMMISSIONER SALSBURY
– Feral cats update
COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE
– City events
– Water main break
– Awareness with school in session
– Get involved and support local businesses and activities.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager and the City Attorney in the City Manager’s office. The open meeting will resume in Commission Room at 8:40PM. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to come out Executive Session with action. OLSON seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: OLSON moved that the Commission provides the City Manager permission to negotiate with the County, in good faith, the exchanging of the 9-1-1 services and should an agreement not be reached, the City Manager has permission, by January 1, 2026, to terminate our services provided by the City for 9-1-1. WELLS seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Adjourn
MOTION: DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:43PM. OLSON seconded.
AUGUST 19, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:43PM.
Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk
OUTSTANDING PROPERTY TAXES VS. TAX ABATEMENTS
AND HOW IT IS AFFECTING OUR COMMUNITY
Submitted by Deb McCoy on 8.21.25
County officials suggested to add the Neighborhood Revitalization Rebates information, which shows the payout for each year of rebates to the property owners, and they were sent to Deb McCoy which she added to this letter to the editor.
Look what is happening in our small community. As of the 2020 Census, the total population of the incorporated cities in Bourbon County was 8,464, and 5,896 live in unincorporated communities and rural regions making our total population of Bourbon County 14,360.
As citizens we need to be held accountable for the actions that we are responsible for. Without taxes our City and County Government cannot provide the essential services and infrastructure in our community. They primarily fund: Public Schools, Public Safety to support police and fire protection, Roads and Infrastructure contribute to the maintenance and construction of roads and public transportation, and Community Services that include local health and social service programs, libraries, parks, recreational facilities and other community amenities. Overall, Property taxes are a crucial source of revenue for local governments, enabling them to provide essential services and to maintain the infrastructure of our community.
“Most Americans do not like doing, or paying their income taxes, but every year about 85% of them will voluntarily pay the full amount of the taxes they owe. Even so, the IRS estimates that the United States loses over $400 billion of revenue each year because people fail to file their taxes, under report their income or underpay the amount of taxes they owe.” (4/11/2024 “The Conversation” by Michele Frank)
The recent Legal Notice printout of Bourbon County 2024 outstanding taxes total of $1,355,870.93. The following figures are outstanding taxes from 2017 through 2023 that were received from our treasurer’s office:
2017 – $70,123.81
2018 –$80,569.78
2019 –$89,831.45
2020 – $94,115.88
2021 – $159,182.00
2022 – $316,810.93
2023 – $600,321.48
Another Program that gives residents tax breaks is The Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Rebate Commercial or Residential Program. This program is a partnership between Bourbon County as well as Bronson, Fort Scott, Fulton, Redfield, Mapleton and Uniontown for promoting revitalization and development. To qualify the property must be located within the contiguous city limits of the City of Fort Scott, Conform to the City of Fort Scott’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan & Zoning Ordinance, Conform to all applicable building codes, rules & regulation in effect at the time the improvement are made and for the length of the term of the rebate., and be up to date on all property tax & special assessment payments. The following list from 2015 through 2025 breaks down the annual rebates on taxes that were given in Bourbon County through the County Appraiser’s Office upon the increase in value for the participating properties.
PROPERTY VALUATIONS NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION PROGRAM REBATES
2015 – $822,736 2015 – $44,869.14
2016 – $3,328,018 2016 – $189,247.41
2017 – $4,817,118 2017 – $217,325.80
2018 – $108,850 2018 – $492,748.60
2019 – $425,832 2019 – $419,864.72
2020 – $1,985,078 2020 – $433,934.71
2021 – $2,754,027 2021 – $467,728.35
2022 – $1,097,830 2022 – $489,788.37
2023 – $4,816,782 2023 – $475,128.72
2024 – $6,927,358 2024 – $623,486.97
2025 – $5,466,190 2025 – $687,424.27
The total amount of taxes that are unpaid or rebated in our community for 2024/2025 is $2,666,782.17.
The questions on whether cities should have caps on the number of grants awarded is complex and subjective and perhaps, we as a city and a county should consider caps on tax rebate incentives to ensure they are used effectively and equitably and based on community needs. It’s essential to consider the economic impact of these grants on local communities, as well as the need for flexibility in grant allocation. Ultimately the decision of our local government should be based on a thorough assessment of the specific circumstances and needs. The purpose of the Neighborhood Revitalization Program was intended to encourage reinvestment and improvement of areas of decline or areas of architectural or historical significance within the community per K.S.A. 12-17.114. Are we following these requirements and who is monitoring the program to ensure that we are within the purpose and factual findings of this program? These programs are enticing, but have we over extended our means to the point that we cannot meet the basic needs of our essential services and to maintain the infrastructure of our community without imposing additional sales taxes?
The Mapleton Cafe, located in rural northern Bourbon County, is under a new manager.
“This cafe had been shut down for eight years,” Adam Clay, the new owner/manager,” said. “Joe Bisogno owns the building.”
It opened at the end of July.
“I was given an opportunity to open my own business in the country, where I want to be,” Clay said. “I have always been drawn to the country. I lived in DeSoto. Panasonic moved into the area, and lots of people have moved in.”
“You need to seize an opportunity.”
He moved a fifth-wheel recreation vehicle to the site of the building in Mapleton, population 99, in January and started renovating the building.
“I had to fix it up. I moved here, living in the fifth-wheeler.”
Clay has 35 years in the hospitality business with a focus on kitchen, menu, costing, and trends in the food business.
“I come from the K.C. area, Desoto, and worked as a chef for a corporation in their test kitchen. I left my position with Goodsents in K.C. at the end of June to do this full-time. Up to then, I only worked on weekends.”
The restaurant passed the Kansas Department of Agriculture inspection in mid-July.
“Even though a lot of work needs to be done, with the help of the Mapleton City Council, the local residents, and Joe Bisogno, we’ll make it successful,” he said.
“I’m the only cook; there are two local people as employees, Shawn Mierkey and Zoe Charley, and other local people pitch in to help.”
About the cafe
“It’s a country cafe with a modest breakfast and lunch menu,” he said. “It’s a starter menu. I’m still trying to figure out what works in this marketplace.”
“We are open to suggestions. A new dish for me is chili with a cinnamon roll and a pickle,” he said.
He said he is trying to keep the prices that fit this rural area.
The restaurant is located at 423 N. Bourbon Street in Mapleton. Contact info: 785-813-6051. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Special Council Meeting on August 14, 2025 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 5:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting, Interim City Clerk Sally Johnson.
Purpose of meeting is to hire/appoint non-elected personnel.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to hire Haley Arnold for City Clerk position to start September 2, 2025 with 90 day probationary period
Moved by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 5:07PM
The 2026 Budget Hearing and Regular Council Meeting on August 12, 2025 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Matt Kelly, Judy Cassidy, Haley Arnold, Leah Hall, Regan Bryant, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Treasurer/Interim City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
2026 Budget Hearing –no citizens in attendance.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to adopt the 2026 Budget as presented
2026 Budget Hearing closed.
CITIZENS REQUEST
None
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Johnson presented the July 2025 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $249,350.12, Receipts $26,400.57, Transfers Out $3,024.00, Expenditures $26,745.44, Checking Account Closing Balance $245,981.25. Bank Statement Balance $254,478.97, including Checking Account Interest of $53.64, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $8,497.72, Reconciled Balance $245,981.25. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $38,287.32, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $22,987.37, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $45,153.41, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $352,409.35. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $424.17, and Utility CDs $1,273.42 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,697.59. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of July 2025, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. July Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00 for Total Transfers of $3,024.00. Net Loss for the month of July $3,368.87, Year-to-Date Net Loss $17,882.49. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $98,877.38 (73.4%), Expenditures $73,404.11 (48.1%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $20,424.04 (54.9%), Expenditures $32,494.65 (70.5%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $64,418.94 (52.0%), Expenditures $68,270.29 (42.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $100,366.09 (67.0%), Expenditures $153,430.62 (71.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $3,886.52 (53.5%), Expenditures $3,047.95 (42%). The August 2025 payables to date in the amount of $38,721.19 were presented. The invoices from KMGA and Johnson Vaughn, PA have not been received by noon meeting day.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan reported that letters will be sent to 201 Fulton St for tall grass/weeds (clerk will try to find an address), 101 Washington St has mowed but still needs to address backyard. It was brought to his attention that 401 Sherman has tall grass/weeds in ditches and backyard and possible junk vehicles and 306 Hill St has a junk vehicle in driveway. Letters will also be sent to those two addresses. A vehicle has been parked on the easement in the 400 block of Washington St for quite some time now. He will investigate.
Superintendent Rich informed the council the outlets for food trucks/vendors on the north side of the park are not working for food trucks. Matt Kelly, Kelly Electric, was asked which ones are 50AMP and 30AMP. He will check and mark them. He came back later in the meeting and reported that there are no 50AMP. He will present a quote to install two 50AMP near the breaker boxes. He also left business cards to give to vendors if they are having trouble with the outlets.
Rich also reported that the grease gun for the gas valves is not working properly and the company we purchased from no longer works on them. He presented a quote for a new gun and repair kit. Interim Clerk Johnson reported that the current guns have been repaired in 2008, replaced with reconditioned ones in 2013, and repaired again in 2015. Ervin asked about the warranty for a new gun. Rich was unsure, but would check.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to buy a new Valtex 1400 Lubrication Gun 10M with hose and gauge for price quoted
Clerk Johnson reported a dog at large complaint received on 8/7 but complainant would not describe the dog or location of the incident.
Council was presented with the draft 2024 Audit.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to accept audit as presented.
She asked about fall citywide cleanup. Cleanup will be August 25-28. When order, ask if we order two dumpsters, could we get another if needed. Since there is no billing to go out before cleanup, she will distribute flyers to Union Station, Post Office, and Union State Bank and post at City Hall and community bulletin board.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – someone painted “CLEAN DRAIN DRY” on fishing dock. It was suggested that if may have been Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks. Interim Clerk Johnson will check with Don George, KDWPT biologist.
Councilwoman Kelly – nothing
Councilwoman Pemberton – nothing
Councilwoman Pritchett – absent
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – nothing
OLD BUSINESS
SEED Grant – Treasurer Johnson received an email requesting clarification on the Amazon invoices breakdown between the different projects.
FEMA Flooding (DR4800) Project – Had a conference call with FEMA and DKEM on August 6. FEMA will provide weekly updates on progress of project through the system. Damage Description and Dimensions (DDD) on Project Rip Rap has been reviewed, signed and submitted. There was discussion on going ahead with the ditch/culvert work on 2nd St. Marbery was the low bid for all four components. If he does not get all of them there will be a $750 mobilization charge added to his bid. He is still the lowest bidder with the addition. Council agreed to start the 2nd St ditch/culvert work with Marbery as the contractor.
Sidewalk Project – Rogers & Sons started on August 5. Mayor Jurgensen said the cost to break up & haul off concrete slab on 210 Sherman is $2,000 and he authorized that addition to project.
Park Electric (south side) – lines have been laid but outlets have not been installed. Joe George volunteered to smooth dirt and seed the excavation area.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss applicants and conduct interviews for non-elected personnel position, the open meeting to resume at 10:40PM
Cassidy called in at 8:30PM, out at 8:35PM, Arnold called in at 8:36PM, out at 8:59PM, Hall called in at 9:00PM, out at 9:11PM, Bryant called in at 9:12PM, out at 9:43PM, Johnson called in at 9:52PM, out at 10:15PM.
Open meeting resumed at 10:40PM. No action from executive session.
Moved by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 10:40PM
Fort Scott, Kan. Aug. 20, 2025 – The Gordon Parks Museum has been awarded a $6,874 grant from the
Kansas Arts Commission Public Art and Murals Grant Program.
For the 2025–2026 grant cycle, the Kansas Arts Commission distributed $1 million in funding to 108 recipients
across 35 Kansas counties.
These funds support a wide range of creative initiatives, including museums, arts
education, music, dance, visual arts, professional and community theater, creative writing, murals, and other
cultural projects.
“We are very thankful for this kind gift from the Kansas Arts Commission grant,” said Kirk Sharp, executive
director of The Gordon Parks Museum.
The awarded funds will support the creation of a Gordon Parks Mural on the Wilder House building, located at
Wall and Main Streets in downtown Fort Scott. The mural will be designed and painted by Cbabi Bayoc, an
internationally recognized visual artist and illustrator based in St. Louis, Missouri. Bayoc is also the artist
behind the First Kansas Colored Infantry Mural, completed in 2023 on the north downtown building at 9 South
Main Street, near Skubitz Plaza, facing the Fort Scott National Historic Site.
Funding for Kansas Arts Commission grants is provided by the Kansas Legislature and the National
Endowment for the Arts.
For more information, please contact The Gordon Parks Museum at (620) 223-2700, ext. 5850 or by email at
[email protected].
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It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of our loved one, Lory Ann Woods. Lory passed from this world on Sunday August 17, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri.
Lory was born, February 27, 1956, in Kansas City, Kansas to Loretta May (Downing) Neal and William Frederick Neal.
Lory learned to ride horses at a young age and loved horses and the outdoors; she often spoke of her adventures riding. She enjoyed playing cards, specifically spades. Lory also loved to read, especially Western novels. Zane Gray was one of her favorite authors. She enjoyed watching Western movies and TV shows. It didn’t matter if she had seen it before. She enjoyed every minute of it. She enjoyed going to stock car races with her family nearly every weekend in the Summer. Each year the family spent time at both the Kansas State Fair and Missouri State Fair taking in the events that each had to offer. Lory especially enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and loved them so very much. Lory opened her home to others and was like mom to many and provided a safe place for them to stay. Lory loved to be surrounded by family and friends and would often host gatherings to be enjoyed by everyone.
Lory is preceded in death by her spouse, Homer Lee Woods, her parents, Loretta May (Downing) Neal, her father, William Frederick Neal, sisters, Lola May Neal and Dorothy Lee Wallace and brother, William Frederick Neal.
Lory is survived by sons, Rollo Woods, Anthony Woods (Darrean), Sisters, Mary McKinley (Tony), Billie Nation (Brent), Carol Cox (Bill), Grandchildren, Maxtin McCurley, Kamiya Woods, Anthony Woods, Zyir Woods, Zeno Bost and Zeke Bost and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, August 23trd at the Cheney Witt Chapel The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Lory Woods Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
