Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission Meeting on Sept. 2

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of September 2, 2025                       Regular 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 AttendanceBrad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Michael Hoyt, Jack Welch, Zac Crumby, Patrick Barnes/Olsson, Diane Striler, Anne Dare, and Harold Martin.

 

VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and WELLS said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the amended agenda with the addition of Ben Hart/BakerTilly/Appearances and the removal of Item D/New Business/Action Items – purchase of the skid steer. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1391-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 13, 2025 – August 26, 2025$1,554,438.30

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of August 19, 2025

–  Request to Pay – Invoice No. 527851 – Olsson – Project No. 024-06580 – FSK RSA Grading and Runway Lighting Project – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-024/025-2025 – Design and Bidding (services rendered through February 1, 2025) – $41,850.00

–  Approval of Resolution No. 20-2025 A RESOLUTION TO SUBMIT TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY, THE PROPOSITION OF LEVYING ONE-HALF PERCENT (0.5%) RETAILERS’ SALES TAX IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Comment

Harold Martin requested permission to comment during the discussion on the sale of lake lots which was granted.

 

Appearances

Zac Crumby – Request for Temporary Street Closure – Motorcycle Benefit Ride for KRI/Ride 4 Kids – September 13, 2025 – National to W. Oak from Wall St. – 3:00PM – 11:30PM – Last stop at Sharky’s.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the Temporary Street Closure for the ride for kids event from 3PM to 11:30PM on September 13, 2025 . WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Jack Welch –   CHAMPS (H.O.T.) Heart of Texas Football Bowl

Welch, Founder and CEO of America’s Drug Free Productions, requested City sponsorship for the December 6th CHAMPS bowl game, a 501(c)(3) event promoting awareness on alcohol, drugs, bullying, and suicide. He seeks $30,000 in funding to cover team lodging and a banquet, though $20,000 would cover the game alone without the banquet. Ticket sales support future events. The game typically features a top Texas team against one from Kansas, Mississippi, or Arizona, though it would be canceled in case of bad weather. Welch will host the event at Frary Field.

 

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to host the CHAMPS Heart of Texas Football Bowl with the City of Fort Scott with a donation to help cover those costs including the banquet of $30,000.00 out of the Special Alcohol/Drug Fund. OLSON seconded. VAN HOECKE, OLSON, and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS and DANCER voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-2.

 

Ben Hart/Baker Tilly was available for Commissioners’ questions in preparation of the public hearing for the budget scheduled for September 16, 2025, including a 0.8 mill decrease.

 

New Business

 

Public Hearing:

Consideration of Resolution No. 21-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 102 N. BARBEEL. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

KRUGER gave a history of the structure as it pertains to code violations and Code’s Enforcement.

He stated the owner was unresponsive to outreach attempts, and the property is delinquent on

taxes. There we no other public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 21-2025 a resolution directing the removal of an alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 102 N. Barbee. OLSON seconded.

DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 22-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 602 S. BARBEEL. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

KRUGER requested the item be tabled for another time because a gentleman has a contract with a realtor to buy the property. There we no other public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the public hearing for 602 S. Barbee for (90) days. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 23-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 CLARKL. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

KRUGER gave a history of the structure as it pertains to code violations and Code’s Enforcement. He stated the owner was contacted and expressed no interest in fixing the property.

 

No public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 23-2025 a resolution directing the removal of an alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 505 Clark. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Action Items:

Consideration of Olsson proposal to perform the design and bidding phase services for KDOT-KAIP (Project No. AV-2026-16) – Olsson Project No. 025-04135 Patrick Barnes/Olsson

BARNES presented the proposal from Olson to design and perform bidding services for taxiway lighting at the Fort Scott Municipal Airport was presented. The project is funded by a KDOT grant with a 90/10 split. He was present to answer questions.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to allow Olsson to move forward. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

Overview of MIH Grant Application as it relates to the proposal advertised for qualified residential developers (Applications due September 20, 2025) L. Dillon

DILLON appeared to request permission to apply the MIH grant along with the Kansas Housing Investor

Tax Credit (KHITC). She stated that a Request for Proposals has been advertised and approximately (4) developers are interested. The grant being sought is $650,000, with approximately 10% allocated for down

payment assistance for moderate-income housing.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to give permission to go after the MIH and KHITC grants. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Discussion of the Sale of Lake Lots – L. Dillon

DILLON stated that an individual had inquired about purchasing lake lots and wanted to know the process. Discussion was had about the remaining that were still open and owned by the City, and the previous sales. The Commission concluded that the topic and process needed to be discussed and reevaluated in the future.

 

MARTIN commented that he was encouraged that the Commission was taking a cautious approach on making the decision for further sales of lake lots. He expressed his concern about the health of the lake and recommended that they consider doing a bathymetric survey, environmental impact study and regular water quality testing. He also expressed concern about the sewer system and lift station at the lake regarding its ability to manage an increase of residents. He has brought these items to the City’s attention several times in the past.

 

Discussion was had on encroachment on City property and improvements at the lake.

 

MATKIN left the meeting at 7:01PM and returned at 7:03PM.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the lake lot discussion until another time in the future, based on our previous procedures of selling lake lots, or until such matter is brought up again. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 24-2025 A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AUTHORIZING THE REDEMPTION AND PAYMENT OF ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES A, 2014 AND SERIES B, 2014 (SLEEP INN AND SUITES HOTEL PROJECT) AND THE SALE AND CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY TO FS HOSPITALITY GROUP, LLC

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve Resolution No. 24-2025. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

 

Consideration of Chip Seal Payment

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to accept the offer from Bettis for the Chip Seal payment at the reduced rate of $201,000.00 Olsson. DANCER seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of 99-Year Land Lease Agreement – M. Wells

MOTION:  WELLS moved to table the discussion until September 16, 2025. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project Update

– Davis Lift Station

 

CITY ATTORNEY – Observation on American Legion representative for the car show, thorough and appreciative.

 

FARMER left the meeting 7:13PM and returned at 7:15PM

 

CITY MANAGER

–  Franchise fees with Evergy – agreement expires February 2026

–  Milling of Lee Circle Drive and Crescent Drive

–  Curb and guttering work on Eddy Street

–  100th Year Celebration of Memorial Hall, Friday, Sept. 5 – 11:30AM

–  Organizational chart for DANCER coming this week

–  Memorial Hall renovation scope of work to come

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will provide a Scope of Work for Memorial Hall project for bond consideration by September 16, 2025, meeting.

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

–  Additional activities on Skubitz Plaza

–  Concerns about Lake Patrol and camping area improvements

–  Evergy franchise agreement

–  Bettis Asphalt

–  Memorial Hall in combination with Library expansion for bond

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

–  Comments regarding city events and Commission is doing a good job

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY –  No comments

 

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

–  Moody building status

–  Revisit food truck ordinance September 16, 2025

–  Sidewalk improvement in downtown district (mostly south side)

–  Budget reports feedback to come Monday, September 8, 2025

 

ACTION:  CITY CLERK to put food truck ordinance on September 16, 2025. MATKIN will look for SALSBURY’S submitted suggestions for the ordinance.

 

ACTION:  DANCER will talk with MATKIN regarding the budget reports he is requesting.

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

–  Response to comments made by WELLS

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  OLSON moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:36PM. DANCER seconded.

 

SEPTEMBER 2, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:36PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County Receives $1M For Bridge Project on Jayhawk Rd.

Governor Kelly Announces $40.5M
for 27 Local Bridge Projects


TOPEKA
– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed today announced that 27 local and off-system bridge projects across Kansas will receive a combined total of $40.5 million in state and federal funding as part of two local bridge improvement programs.

“By funding bridge projects across our state, we are directly investing in the future of our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Repairing and replacing aging bridges ensures people and commerce can move safely and efficiently throughout Kansas.”

Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $46.5 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, and over 5,000 of those bridges need updates to meet today’s standards.

“The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program has allowed us to enhance our commitment to local bridges,” Secretary Reed said. “This is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about strengthening the vital connections that keep our towns and cities thriving.”

KDOT will award about $20 million through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2026. The funds will go to 11 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four deficient bridges will be permanently removed from local systems. The KLBIP, established in 2015, provides funds to local public authorities for the replacement or rehabilitation of deficient city and county-owned bridges. The program also allows cities and counties to be awarded additional funds for the removal of deficient bridges.

KDOT will award $20.5 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2027 to fund 16 projects across the state. The OSB program was established to comply with federal requirements to use a specific portion of federal funds for bridges not on the federal-aid system. The funding is a combination of federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, Bridge Program Funds, and state funds.

The OSB and KLBIP programs are used for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that consider items such as bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 163 applications requesting $189.3 million.

Below is a list of the recipients and project locations for the KLBIP and OSB programs.

2026 Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program Projects

Local Government Agency

Location

Local Contribution

Local % Match

KDOT Match Funds

Funds for Bridge Removal

Total Funds Awarded

City of Topeka

SW 57th Street over S. branch Shunganunga Creek 0.2 miles east of US-75

$528,758

20%

$1,200,000

$      –

$1,200,000

Edwards County

20 Road (RS 1491) over a tributary to Little Coon Creek 7.0 miles north of Offerle

$65,521

0%

$900,000

$      –

$900,000

Ellis County

125th Avenue over the Saline River 12.5 miles north and 0.5 miles east of Ellis

$757,178

15%

$4,300,000

$60,900

$4,360,900

Gray County

FF Road over Crooked Creek tributary 6.0 miles south and 0.8 miles east of Haggard

$110,459

5%

$750,000

$      –

$750,000

Greenwood County

100th St over Fall River tributary 3.0 miles east and 3.2 miles north of Climax

$142,509

5%

$1,200,000

$       –

$1,200,000

Harvey County

SW 14th St over Sand Creek 1.9 miles west of I-135 in Newton

$1,057,558

15%

$2,550,000

$      –

$2,550,000

Lincoln County

E Kiowa Road over Wolf Creek 4.5 miles west of Sylvan Grove

$31,902

0%

$1,970,000

$50,000

$2,020,000

Neosho County

Veteran’s road over the Neosho River 1.0 miles east and 2.6 miles south of St. Paul

$840,859

15%

$3,065,000

$      –

$3,065,000

Rawlins County

Road 16.5 over Little Beaver Creek 0.4 miles north of Blakeman

$95,552

0%

$2,300,000

$      –

$2,300,000

Rooks County

J Road over Sand Creek 8.2 miles west of Stockton

$57,616

5%

$1,100,000

$52,200

$1,152,200

Trego County

380th Avenue over drainage ditch 1.4 miles south and 13.0 miles east of Trego Center

$40,951

0%

$500,000

$      –

$500,000

 

 

$3,728,863

 

$19,835,000

$163,100

$19,998,100

2027 Off-System Bridge Program Project Recommendations

Local Government Agency

Bridge Location

Local Contribution

Local Cost %

Maximum Funds Awarded (covering 100% of Construction and CE)

Doniphan County

Oxide Road over an abandoned CRI railroad immediately south of US-36 2.5 miles east of Troy

$82,994

6.80%

$1,250,000

Bourbon County

Jayhawk Road over tributary to Marmaton River 2.5 miles South and 1.9 miles West of Fort Scott

$87,362

8.90%

$1,000,000

Butler County

SW 80th Street over the Walnut River located 3.6 miles North and 2.0 miles East of Augusta

$251,537

11.20%

$2,000,000

Chase County

YY Road over Jacob Creek tributary 4.7 miles South and 1.0 mile East of Saffordville

$133,227

11.20%

$1,100,000

Cloud County

Wagon Road over Grave Creek 2.8 miles North and 6.0 miles East of Jamestown

$92,822

7.50%

$1,300,000

Cowley County

155th Road over Silver Creek 9.6 miles East and 4.0 miles North of Arkansas City

$114,663

5.60%

$2,000,000

Geary County

McNeal Road over East Branch Humboldt Creek 5.0 miles South and 12.0 miles East of Junction City

$104,834

12.50%

$800,000

Harper County

SE 120 Avenue over Bluff Creek 3.0 miles East and 0.4 miles South of Bluff City

$416,269

17.20%

$2,000,000

Kingman County

SE 100 Street over Rose Bud Creek 3.2 miles North and 0.2 miles West of Rago

$76,442

10.30%

$750,000

Linn County

E 850th Road over Little Sugar Creek on the north edge of Mound City 0.6 miles East of K-7

$614,308

23.50%

$2,000,000

Osage County

S Fisher Road over Plum Creek tributary 1.7 miles South and 1.5 miles West of Burlingame

$124,491

11.70%

$1,000,000

Osborne County

S 55th Road over South Fork of the Solomon River 1.0 miles South and 5.5 miles East of Osborne

$65,521

4.30%

$1,600,000

Ottawa County

Frontier Road over Sand Creek 0.5 miles North of Bennington

$68,252

7.80%

$900,000

Phillips County

W 700 Road over Starvation Creek 0.5 miles North of Stuttgart

$76,442

6.80%

$1,200,000

Riley County

Lasita Road over Timber Creek 1.0 mile North, 6.0 miles West of city of Riley

$66,614

11.10%

$600,000

Stafford County

SE 60 Street over the North Fork Ninnescah River, 6.0 miles South and 0.4 miles West of Stafford

$76,442

7.90%

$1,000,000

$2,452,220

$20,500,000

More information about KDOT’s bridge program is available on its webpage on the KDOT website.

###

Obituary of Charlotte Elaine Lucas

Charlotte Elaine Lucas, age 77, a long-time resident of Humboldt, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the Medicalodge in Ft. Scott, Kansas. She was born June 15, 1948, the daughter of Gerald Lee Stephens, Sr. and Evelyn Nadine York Stevens. Charlotte grew up in Humboldt and graduated from Humboldt High School. She was united in marriage to Lewis William “Bill” Lucas on April 25, 1981. Charlotte worked as a CNA and CMA at the nursing home in Humboldt for many years. She had been an active member of the First Baptist Church of Humboldt. Charlotte loved her grandchildren dearly and always wanted to spend time with them or hear about their activities. She also enjoyed spending time with her friend group known as the “Golden Girls.” She could often be found socializing at the senior citizens center or visiting the Humboldt Library. She also never missed Humboldt’s annual Bibelesta Parade.

Survivors include a daughter, Karon Schnichels (Troy) of Linn Valley, Kansas; ten grandchildren, Brandi Robertson, Heather Hillis, Megan Sherbon, Courtney Miller, Kyle Schnichels, Zayne Schnichels, Madgelene Harper, Eric Lee Lucas, Sarha McCormick, and Heath Lucas; twenty-eight great-grandchildren and twelve great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are a daughter-in-law, Mandy Lucas, a sister-in-law, Lorraine Stephens and a nephew, Simon Stephens. Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, on December 28, 2017. She was also preceded in death by a son, Eric Lucas, a daughter, Melody Lucas, a brother, Gerald Stephens, Jr. a grandson, Earnest Lucas and a great-granddaughter, Oaklynn.

Pastor Jerry Neeley will conduct funeral services at 10:00 A.M. Monday, September 8th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the U. S. National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Memorials are suggested to Tri-Valley Developmental Center 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.

KS August Tax Collections Above Estimate

August Total Tax Collections at $692.3 Million; 3.9% Above Estimate


TOPEKA
– The State of Kansas ends August 2025 with total tax collections at $692.3 million. That is $26.2 million, or 3.9%, above the estimate. Total tax collections were up 4.0% from August 2024.

“This month’s stronger-than-expected tax collections highlight the strength of Kansas’ work to attract business investment and workforce development, evidenced by reported witholdings up 13.7% over August of 2024,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “However, even if these better-than-expected revenues continue, I remain concerned about the reckless budget’s impact on the long-term fiscal health of the state and the risk of departing from the course of fiscal responsibility we have been on.”

Individual income tax collections were $361.2 million, which is $16.2 million, or 4.7% above the estimate. Individual income tax collections were up 9.7% from August 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $18.2 million, which is $1.8 million, or 9.0% below the estimate, and down 9.7% from August 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $294.2 million, which is $11.2 million, or 4.0% above the estimate, and down 0.1% from August 2024.

Click here to view the August 2025 revenue numbers.

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Freeman Fort Scott Hospital Opens Following Successful Kansas Licensure Survey

Up and Running

 

                            

FORT SCOTT, Kan. – As of 9:00 am Thursday, Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. is open for business.

The official opening follows the successful completion of the Kansas Licensure Survey. This milestone marks a significant step forward in Freeman’s mission to expand access to high-quality, compassionate healthcare throughout Southeast Kansas.

“This has been an exciting, and very long journey with many working diligently to support the reopening of this hospital! The overwhelming support and positive response from the community has been humbling and we are so honored to join the Fort Scott community and reopen a hospital and emergency department for the Bourbon County residents, assuring they have access to inpatient and emergency care,” said Renee Denton, Chief Executive Officer of Rural Hospitals.

The last time Fort Scott residents enjoyed access to a full-service, hometown-based hospital was 2018, which has forced local residents to seek medical treatment in communities 30-plus minutes away.

“We are thrilled to open our doors in Fort Scott and begin serving this vibrant community,” said Matt Fry, Freeman Health System President and Chief Executive Officer. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and tireless efforts of community stakeholders and our entire team. We are deeply proud to bring Freeman’s standard of care to the people of Southeast Kansas.”

Freeman officials first announced the six-bed emergency department and 10-bed acute care hospital – located at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. – to a crowd of nearly 150 local residents in June 2024.

“We had a staff huddle this morning and I told them, ‘It’s a great day to open a hospital,’” said Anita Walden, Chief Administrative Officer at Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. “Today is the culmination of 14 months in the making, and it’s been a lot of hard work by a lot of people to make today even possible. Of course, the support from the citizens of this community and from Bourbon County has been overwhelming.

“Our success will be dependent on the community utilizing the services of our hospital,” she added.

Freeman officials were notified Wednesday evening that the hospital had successfully passed the Kansas licensure survey. The survey is a rigorous process that ensures hospitals meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and patient care. Passing this survey affirms Freeman’s readiness to provide exceptional healthcare services in Fort Scott — and reflects the strength of the organization’s culture and commitment to excellence. Now, attention turns to passing a credentialing survey conducted by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) officials.

Freeman Fort Scott Hospital offers a range of services designed to meet the needs of the local community, with a focus on accessibility, innovation, and personalized care. The opening represents not only a physical expansion, but also a cultural one — reinforcing Freeman’s values of compassion, collaboration, and community investment.

Freeman Health System extends its heartfelt thanks to every team and community member who contributed to this achievement. Their dedication and teamwork made this moment possible — and their continued efforts will shape the future of healthcare in the region.

For more information about Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. and the services offered, visit freemanhealth.com.

 

###

 

 

About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2025, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers and their experiences. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.

 

 

Fort Scott Freeman Hospital and Emergency Department Opens Today

The reception area of the Freeman Fort Scott Hospital.

At the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Coffee this morning, Fort Scott Freeman Hospital Board members Lindsay Madison and Don Doherty announced they had received notice that the hospital and emergency department, long-awaited by the community, is open today. The hospital is located at 401 Woodland Hills, the former Mercy Hospital building.

More information will be provided as it becomes available from Freeman Hospital staff.

 

 

 

 

Chamber Coffee Hosted by the City At Memorial Hall on Sept. 4

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

City of Fort Scott

Memorial Hall 100-Year Celebration

Thursday, Sepember 4th

8am

@ Memorial Hall

1 E. 3rd St.

(Enter through the 3rd street entrance)

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by City of Fort Scott. The coffee will be held at Memorial Hall, 1 E. 3rd St. this Thursday, September 4th, at 8am. Coffee, juice, and refreshments will be served, and attendees may register to win a special drawing.

This week’s gathering will serve as a prelude event to the Memorial Hall 100-year Celebration, scheduled for Friday, September 5th from 11:30am to 1pm when the community is invited to join in commemorating the centennial milestone of this cherished architectural and cultural landmark in downtown Fort Scott.

Constructed in 1925 in the elegant neoclassical style by architect William T. Schmitt, Memorial Hall was built to honor those who gave their lives in World War I. Through the decades, it has hosted high school basketball games, served as city offices, and provided space for community events and organizations.

Today, Memorial Hall proudly stands as a contributing property within the Fort Scott Downtown Historic District, formally recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. As the building reaches its 100th anniversary, both the Chamber Coffee and community celebration offer opportunities to reflect on a century of local heritage, civic service, and community resilience.

For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

Click HERE to visit the

City of Fort Scott’s Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the Memorial Hall 100th Year Celebration Facebook Event Page!

Click HERE to visit the Facebook Page of

Visit Fort Scott to stay up to date on area tourism updates.

Memorial Hall

1 E. 3rd St, Fort Scott, KS

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

Obituary of David Michael Harney

David Michael Harney was born on 7 March 1935 in Winchester, Massachusetts, one of nine children of the late Edward Francis “Ted” Harney and Mabel Garland, of Arlington. In the late 1950s, David served in the US Army in Korea. He then studied to be a landscape architect and started a successful landscaping business in southern California.

In the 1970s Dave moved to Fort Scott and went into the truck-transport business. While Dave spent years traveling throughout the United States he maintained a home in Fort Scott, Kansas, where he had many close friends that he considered family. He enjoyed his friends, enjoyed life, and always had his many projects to work on.

In 2007 Dave built his dream home in Fort Scott and held a family reunion for his brothers and sisters and their offspring in 2008, including his “favorite nieces”. He received many offers to purchase his dream home and later sold it and moved into a smaller home which he then landscaped beautifully so that it became a showplace. In retirement David continued landscaping which he loved.

His family was important to David, and over the years he amassed a large collection of family photographs from the 1890s to present, as well as family letters, which he organized and digitized in preparation to creating a family book or video. David’s work on this project will be continued by his sister Linda and his niece Susan “Suki” Vierra.

David is survived by his brothers Richard Harney, Oregon; Peter Harney, Washington; and sister Linda (Harney) MacDonald, Wyoming; as well as his many “favorite” nieces and nephews on the East Coast, Gulf Coast, and West Coast.

There was cremation.  Private burial will take place at the U. S. National Cemetery in Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary of Edward Lee Ramsey

Edward Lee Ramsey, age 60, went to meet his Lord and Savior on August 28, 2025. Ed was born in Independence, Missouri on May 2,1965. He was the beloved son of Leonard Roscoe Ramsey and Mary Louise Ramsey and nephew of Martha Ann Gentry. He was the proud and loving father to Garrett and Rebecca Ramsey, Tanner Ramsey, and Yheana Josol.

He was an even prouder Granddad to Grady Ramsey, Emery Ramsey, Remington Ramsey and Waylon Ramsey. Ed was the loving brother to Dana Ramsey, Bob Padgett and Terry Fritz. He was a loving uncle to Ross and Brenna Nolan, Spencer Nolan, and Brook Roberts. Ed was married to his beloved and caring wife IanLou Matanod Ramsey and loved and appreciated all of his family here and in the Philippines.

Ed was a loving husband and good father. He preached the family motto “Family over everything”. Ed (Eddie) graduated from Uniontown High School in 1983 and then continued his education and football career at Ottawa University where he earned the name “Big Ed”. Ed was a passionate lifelong teacher, coach and mentor to many. One his favorite motivators was to say “Pin your ears back and go”. His entire life Ed loved spending his time hunting (especially with Max, Chip, Gunner and Molly), fishing, and riding his ATV. There were many memories made enjoying the great outdoors.

After retirement, Ed was fortunate enough to be able to return home to the Uniontown community where he worked as a bus driver and served First Missionary Baptist Church as a deacon. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9.

Following cremation, services will be held for Ed at the First Missionary Baptist Church (100 5th Street) in Uniontown, Kansas on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. After the service, we will lead a procession to Ed’s favorite spot on the hill- we will have a prayer fire and fellowship for all who wish to attend. If you feel led to give, your donations will go towards an education fund for Ed and Ianlou’s daughter Yheana. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Obituary of Kenneth Bradley Hart

Kenneth Bradley Hart age 88 of rural Garland, quietly slipped away on August 30, 2025 at his home. He was born September 1, 1936, the son of Merle Franklin Hart and Martha Lou (Bradley) Hart at the end of a long, hot summer at the home of his grandparents Henry and Louisa (Corn) Bradley in Chetopa, Kansas.

He spent his early years in Kansas City, Missouri playing in the woods, climbing trees, shooting wasp nests with a slingshot, flinging mudballs at clean cars on the highway and annoying his older brother and baby sister.

Halfway through his 8th grade year, His parents sold their house in Kansas City and purchased Hart’s Shoe Shop on Wall Street and the family made their home in the back of the shop. Kenneth graduated from Fort Scott High School as part of the Greatest Class of 1954. He attended Fort Scott Community College and Pittsburg State University graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1960 and completing a master’s degree in secondary school administration later.

Seeing Vietnam on the horizon, he joined the local National Guard unit, serving 6 months in Army basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and 6 years in the National Guard with training in survey and artillery. During basic, without knowing it, he won the medal as Battalion marksman.

He held several jobs during his lifetime starting with the soda fountain next to the shoe shop, assistant manager of the Fox Theater, a short stint on the railroad, and Bruce Marble and Granite Works. It was while he was at Bruce’s that he was hired by the Metz, Missouri superintendent to teach English, Business, and Social studies. After seeing the class of 1964 through their high school years, he accepted a position at Fort Scott High School teaching English and sponsoring the Crimson yearbook, the junior class and the Junior-Senior Prom. While the community college was housed in the same building as the high school, he also sponsored the Maroon yearbook and taught some classes there.

After leaving teaching in 1982, he worked at Lincoln National Insurance processing claims and working in the mail room until the company left Fort Scott. He formally retired from there New Year’s Eve 1992 and was a full-time father and cattleman.

In 1957 he married Pauline Sue Coonrod with whom he traveled to 49 of the 50 states. He never made it to Michigan but he circumnavigated it so he didn’t care that he never made it there. He and Pauline also traveled internationally to Canada, Mexico, El Salvador, Grand Cayman, Great Britain and Ireland (where he ate some terrible peas).

After he and Pauline divorced, he hung up his travel bags and focused on his relationship with God, family, and hunting.

On April 20, 1983 he married Evangeline Faith Simpson in Pittsburg, Kansas and began a new adventure. Late that summer he received Jesus as his savior and began attending church and singing in the choir at Independent Bible Baptist Church in Pittsburg. He later served as song leader, Sunday school superintendent and VBS director.

Kenneth and Evangeline became interested in genealogy tracing their family histories for several years until their sons were born then he focused on raising his sons, playing video games and watching movies with them and rewriting the story books they tossed in his lap. He introduced them to really good music from the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s. He often sang along to the radio much to his son’s chagrin.

As part of that focus, he moved his growing family to worship closer to home at Cherry Grove Baptist Church and later moving with them to Freedom Spirit Church. He stopped attending church when his hearing failed but continued to support the church his wife called home which is presently Faith Church.

He spent his retirement taking over his father-in-law Stanley Simpson’s cattle operation, deer hunting with his brother Merle Jr and reading and listening to books. He also loved target shooting and was a proud member of the National Rifle Association. He often lamented that he hadn’t purchased a lifetime membership when he was only $50 away from it.

He loved watching birds and over the years he put up houses and feeders for Carolina wrens, bluebirds, Cardinals, Purple Martins and hummingbirds. He was especially pleased with the number of Cardinals and hummingbirds he attracted.

In the last decade or so of his life he became a fan of Royals and Cardinals baseball, football (he thought college was more interesting than the NFL) and NASCAR (for the crashes).

Survivors include his wife of 42 years Evangeline of the home, five sons Keegan, Trevor, Justin, and Dalton Hart of the home and Zachary Hart of Fort Scott. His sister June (Gene) Christy of Girard, his sister-in-law Dolores Daum Hart of Fort Scott, one nephew Mark (Angela) Christy, five nieces Candice Hart (Craig Dunn), Kimberly Hart-McBride (Ron McBride), Kelly Hart (John Lane), Gina Christy, Samantha Christy-Dangermond (Tom Dangermond), nine great nieces and nephews, seven great grand nieces and nephews and his lifelong best friend Don (Mim) Carlson and his devoted cat Perce Blackborow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved brother Merle Hart Jr and all his first cousins. He was also preceded in death by his good friends Howard Kivett, Hubert Leonard, and Norman Cross and his beloved dogs, Patrice Lamumba, Boromir, Butterrum, Codi, Galadriel, and Rommel Panzer and cats Chubby and Ash Chippy.

The family extends their thanks to everyone at Gentiva Hospice for their care, especially Christina, Treva and Michelle. You are superstars!

Memorial services will be held at 4:00 PM Tuesday, September 9th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  The family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:00 PM Monday the 8th at the funeral home.  Burial will take place at Pleasant View Cemetery.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the National Rifle Association, the Fort Scott Public Library, or Faith Church building fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.