All posts by Amy Thorpe

Election Business at Feb. 3 County Commissioner Meeting

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

County Commissioners received input from Michael Hoyt and Shane Walker on how to conduct the election of new commissioners for the new districts in Bourbon County.

Michael Hoyt began the public comments portion of the meeting by asking the commissioners what they are planning to do about the resolution made by the previous commission to hold elections for the added districts on April 18, 2025.

Commissioner Brandon Whisenhunt responded by saying that after talks with the Kansas governor’s office, they were told no special election is allowed allowed to fill the two new commissioner district position.

Hoyt claimed it may be possible to hold the election in April by a commission resolution. He mentioned that Jay Hall believes that the county could.

Shane Walker, Bourbon County Chief Operating Officer, commented from the audience that that was not the case, causing Hoyt to tell him he was there to address the commission, not Walker. Hoyt then left the table and ended his comments.

Walker came to the commissioners’ table to address the issue saying, “I’ll explain it so you guys can do it right so we don’t have this problem.”

He explained that in a meeting with the governor’s chief of staff and legal counsel, he learned that a law was passed in 2023 due to Potowatomie and Douglas county’s plans to have a special election to fill their new commission district seats.

Jay Hall, Shalenberger, and attorneys met with county officials. They told county officials that if they go by the letter of the law, the election will hold up in a court case, but that holding a special election with candidates chosen by the leaders of the Republican and Democrat parties would render the election invalid and open the county up to being sued. Because there are no current commissioners for the two new districts, they are not considered vacated positions.

“We don’t need sued. We do things legal for a reason….The old law doesn’t get struck, but this [new law] supersedes it,” Walker said. “The recommendation from the highest offices at the state absolutely say that we need to do it as a standard election.”

With current election situation, the new commissioners would enter their positions in 2026 and hold office for one year, terming out at the same time as Whisenhunt. However, the commission could choose to have one of the new commissioners hold a three year term that would coincide with the two commissioners elected in 2024, Dave Beerbower and Leroy Kruger, while the other new commissioner’s term would end with Whisenhunt’s. The purpose of this law is to keep the commission from having a super-majority of four commissioners running for office every four years and only one commissioner on the opposite two years.

If commissioners are elected contrary to current state law, and the county is sued and looses the suit, all the actions taken by those commissioners would be subject to that lawsuit.

Walker agreed with Hoyt that a special election would be good, so the new offices are filled quickly, but state law does not allow for that.

The commission took no action at the meeting, but acknowledged the need to change the previous commission’s resolution for an April 18, 2025 election as well as look further into the matter before making another decision about the election.

Kruger, referring to the interruption and outburst between Hoyt and Walker, “We’re not going to go back to the old ways of the old commission…I want to do a good job of getting away from the negativity and get back on board with having these meetings done correctly.”

Talking about how to conduct a meeting according to the rules of order, Beerbower pointed out that when someone fails to follow those rules, a point of order should be called to rectify it and the chairman (Whisenhunt). Whisenhunt agreed and apologized for not keeping order. Beerbower acknowledges that this is only the commission’s fourth meeting and everyone is still learning.

Public Works Report

Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, came to the commission with a department update including monthly culvert reports.

“We have developed a safety committee at public works with a chairman, vice-chairman and secretary as well and then all of our lead people are on the Safety Committee at this time,” he said.

His department is in contact with KWorks, awaiting the return of the contact person there to continue with the committee’s work and get answers about OSHA training.

The committee has a book they are following to get some safety policies and procedures started as well as some training. The committee will meet the first Wednesday of each month at 7:30 at the public works building. However, the February meeting will be on Feb. 12,  due to a conflict with other training regarding working at the quarry, which the public works employees will be doing Feb. 5.

Bailey also told of the Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission creating a comprehensive safety action plan for several counties in the area, including Bourbon County. The purpose of the plan is to identifying solutions along the region’s street system to eliminate fatalities and serious injury crashes. They are holding an open house Wednesday Feb. 19 from 4-7 p.m. at Buck Run Community Center.

“I encourage everyone to swing by. There will be no presentation, it’s just kind of come in and look at what they have so far.”

He also encouraged everyone to fill out the survey on the SEKRPC website at https://sekrpc.org/ .

Bailey also said that his department will have a meeting with FEMA on Feb. 7 at 11 a.m. and he is working on getting quotes for roof replacements on Elm Creek Lake shelters.

Beerbower asked for a list of what’s needed to repair that area of the lake for the two volunteers who have contacted him to work on it.

Bailey also suggested using individuals sentenced with community service could help as well.

He said that crews are now picking up limbs felled by recent storms as well as grading gravel roads damaged after all the freezes and thaws. The ditch north of Tomahawk on 125th being repaired after the rains.

Hospital equipment disposal

Kruger, who is the commissioners’ contact for Freeman Hospital said that Freeman wants to know what the county would like to do with the equipment they have no use for. Freeman has a contact for donating it to third world nations that cannot afford to purchase new equipment.

Beerbower and Whisenhunt agreed that donating it would be a good solution. Since it’s taxpayer owned, they need to dispose of it properly. Most of it outdated or not in good working order.

Whisenhunt asked Kruger to get a list of the equipment.

County Clerk Susan Walker mentioned there is a state statute which addresses the disposal of county property, but that a memorandum of understanding to be reviewed by the county’s counsel is also in order.

The issue was tabled for now.

Commissioner comments

Kruger reminded all that the meeting with city commissioners will be at The Empress Center at 5:30 on Feb. 6, 2025. No county business will be conducted, but it is a work session.

Beerbower said Elm Creek Lake has some great potential. His only reservation is having a rock quarry out there too. He wants to study efficiency of the county owning a rock quarry.

Whisenhunt choked up a bit and said he had a request from youngest daughter due to tragedy at school last week. “She wanted me to remind everybody to stay off the frozen water.”

“Amen!” was the response of several folks present.

Bourbon County changing from 3 to 5 Commissioner Districts

Bourbon County will change from a three-district county to a five-district county in 2025.

In the fall of 2024, citizens collected signatures on a petition to add the change to the ballot in November. Even though they were unable to get the needed number of signatures in the time required to add it to the ballot, the County Commissioners approved a resolution to put the matter on the ballot.

In the November 2024 elections, a majority of voters approved the change.

Bourbon County Deputy Clerk Jennifer Hawkins said that the election office is currently switching everyone over to their new districts. Those districts are based on maps approved by the previous county commission.

Anybody interested in running can pick up a packet at the County Clerk’s office at 210 S. National Ave. Any registered voter living in the district he or she wishes to represent may run for commissioner, according to Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk.

The deadline to turn in completed candidate packets is noon on Monday, June 2, 2025.

Primary election date is August 5, 2025. 2025 Primary Election Dates

The general election will be on November 4, 2025 and will include school district and city elections as well. 2025 General Election Dates

County Commissioners increase sheriff’s, EMS director’s pay

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

The Bourbon County Commission voted to bring Sheriff Bill Martin’s pay up to $75,000. This was to correct the lack of pay raise passed in the Jan. 20 meeting.

Commissioner Leroy Kruger had received feedback from citizens that Sheriff Martin has become the lowest-paid elected official. He opened the discussion, saying that Bill was under the impression that a $5000 raise was budgeted for him and he should have at least that much.

Commissioner Dave Beerbower said, “I’ve been opposed to these big increases in salary over the last couple of weeks.” They may be deserved, but it’s more about how we get them there. In the initial resolution, the other elected officials were getting a big increase to their base salary. The sheriff was already at a higher rate than them, as his position warrants, and was going to receive an 8% raise. Now, after the revision last week, that brought the raises of the other elected officials to about 26% from the base salaries. “I would like to see it staggered, but we didn’t do that,” he said.

Average salaries for sheriffs in Kansas ranges from $75,000 to $100,000, per Beerbower’s research.  He went on to say that if the county raised him about 26%, “like we did the others, that would raise him to $75,600 and that would put him at the bottom of that scale for the state.”

“I’m not opposed to him getting a raise at all,” said Commissioner Brandon Whisenhunt.

A citizen asked if there’s enough room in the budget for the salary increase.

“In the original resolution, there was money set aside for the increases that they originally asked for and then we lowered that last week,” said Beerbower. So there is money out of that that still would be available to increase him more than the $5000.

“Sheriffs are typically the highest paid in most counties,” because of the risks inherent to their positions, Beerbower also said.

He went on to explain that there’s at least $30,000 left after changing the resolution from the original request of $70,000 for each position (clerk, register of deeds, and treasurer) to $60,000.

Beerbower moved to increase the sheriff’s salary by 26% to $75,600.

Whisenhunt moved to raise the sheriff’s salary to $75,000 and give a $5,000 raise to the EMS director. Beerbower seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Susan Walker, County Clerk said she would start a new salary schedule next week.

During the public comments section of the meeting, Clint Walker spoke to the commission about solar and open government. He advised them to slow down and not make hasty decisions. “Do your research and make a good decision on things.”

“My specialty in the military was nuclear, biological, and chemical, so I know a little bit about this stuff and have dealt with this stuff,” said Walker, when referring to lithium batteries as part of using solar power. Lithium batteries can be dangerous, but many businesses in the area use solar. If solar is so dangerous, why do we use it in so many places? He asked.

He reminded the commission that county agreements need to be consistent, saying that a projected $4 million in tax income was to come from solar businesses over 10 years. “I’m sure that y’all will figure out and find a business to come in and make up that $4 million in taxes.”

County Clerk Susan Walker brought some end-of-year reallocations to the commission for approval. These were due to late invoices and a major issue with an accounts payable that never posted to the general ledger.

The two funds involved were the Appraiser fund and Sheriff’s fund.

In order to keep within the bound of both budget and cash laws, the commission was asked to reallocate from the sheriff’s fund to the general fund for $52,325.45; and from the appraiser’s fund to the general fund for $4,500. She explained that if the commission didn’t reallocate these amounts, they will have a budget violation in both the sheriff and appraiser funds.

Walker explained that the sheriff and appraiser had enough cash to cover the expenses, but not enough budget. They must follow budget law and cash law. There should have been a budget amendment done at the end of the year, had the issue been known.

Walker explained that this is a 2024 matter. “I need to know if, in the general fund, in 2025, if you want me to move cash from these two funds to the general fund so that you recoup it. It’s two separate issues, budget and cash,” she said.

At the end of the year [2024], the clerk asked each department if they needed an increase in their budgets, but received no response.

Walker has offered to create a purchase order system so that the expenses are encumbered on the date of service or purchase, rather than each department having to collect invoices. “It helps with these kinds of things when you get down to the end of the year.”

Whisenhunt made motions to reallocated the expenses as listed, Beerbower seconded and it carried unanimously.

Discussion is expected regarding budget as the year wraps up.

After conducting two separate executive sessions about non-elected personnel, Whisenhunt announced: “We are going to hire a new county counselor today. Bob Johnson from Iola.” The vote was unanimous.

Terry Hallsey, EMS director, asked the commissioners for permission to start getting bids for new ambulances. It will take 3-5 years to get the actual ambulance. The current new one took 2 and a half years to obtain. Commission approved the hunt for new bids.

Whisenhunt addressed the issue of meeting decorum, asking that when the meeting is in session, those in attendance and the commissioners please turn cell phones to silent to avoid distractions.

Whisenhunt also introduced a noise ordinance discussion he had been receiving calls on. Some folks in the north east part of the county building bitcoin mining computers that require diesel generators. Citizens want it quiet after 10. The county currently has no noise ordinance. Commission suggested asking the new county counselor about possible steps.

Kruger said that historically it won’t be something easily done.

Commission approved a resolution setting legal descriptions for the five commissioner districts. These districts have already been settled when the maps were chosen at the beginning of 2025.

The election for districts 4 and 5 will be the Bourbon county 2025 general election.

Primary election dates: June 2, candidate filed deadline of noon.

July 15, deadline to register to vote or update registration.

July 16, advanced ballots by mail

July 28 – Aug. 1, early voting at the courthouse from 8:30a.m. to 4:30p.m. Aug. 2, is 8a.m.-12p.m., Aug. 4 is 8:30a.m.-12p.m.

Aug. 5 is primary election day from 7a.m. to 7p.m. at your normal polling place.

Polling place changes will be mailed out to everyone.

Commissioners selected the board seats and advisory positions they will serve on this year.

Beerbower: Juvenile detention, senior citizens, health department

Kruger: Fair board, REDI

Whisenhunt: Bourbon County Conservation district

During commissioner comments, Beerbower brought up Michael Barnard volunteering services to repair the Elm Creek Lake Shelter House. Beerbower and the other commissioners plan to ask the new counselor about liability, so the county can move forward to use Barnard’s services. There may also be FEMA money available and a state grant to help fix the dam.

Kruger had a juvenile detention center question for Beerbower to ask when he meets with the juvenile detention board. He said that when he (Kruger) was in law enforcement, it took a judge’s order to send a juvenile there. With the rate for that bed being so high and a potential system in play in here in town, is that something that we need to keep holding down money for. “It’s a very big expense for something we rarely, if every, use.”

Kruger also said, “I want to thank everyone for having patience with us,” as we learn how to do this job. “I appreciate everyone sticking with us.”

Whisenhunt wrapped up the meeting saying, “I want to try to bring some fun back into county politics.” He then suggested a youth day, where selected youth come and try to do commissioner jobs for a day.

Jan. 20, 2025 County Commissioner meeting part 2

Most of the first hour of the meeting was discussing salaries of elected officials and was reported on in an earlier story on Jan. 21.

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

After returning from a 5 minute break, the commission approved the resolution on flood plane management, the public hearing for which was held at the last meeting on 1/13/25.

Commissioner Dave Beerbower then made a motion to meet himself with public works to see their plan and come up with ideas to share with the commission regarding any changes they could make with road treatment during inclement weather. This was to take the place of the idea discussed at the Jan. 13 meeting of the whole commission having a work session on the topic. Commission approved the motion.

During the Public Comment portion of the meeting, J.D. Hanley, Osage Township Trustee and culvert supervisor for Bourbon County Public Works, expressed appreciation for professionalism on the part of the commission. He said he was not speaking to the commission as trustee or culvert supervisor, but as a citizen of Bourbon County.

“You are a huge breath of fresh air,” he said. He went on to say that the community is looking to the commission to make the county better. You have the opportunity to decide if you want to be a politician or a public servant. This choice will show in every decision you make. Please ask yourself, “Will my decision be in the best interests of Bourbon County?” Establish your purpose as being a public servant. Let your goal be to bring unity back to our community. Please let all members of county government treat one another with respect. It’s the commission’s job to get into the various department’s business and ask questions. Citizens should communicate directly with their commissioners, not use Facebook to broadcast the county’s differences and short-comings. Thank you for including God back into the commission and the dealings of the county.

Next, Zach Ross, former deputy, came to speak as a tax payer. He expressed concerned about the new position of Sheriff’s advisor. Sheriff Bill Martin entered the meeting to address Ross’s concerns. he said that the new advisor, Brian Murphy, is the former sheriff of Allen County with more than 30 years of experience. He knows how to deal with commissioners, the public, budgets, employees, etc. He is going work full time, on the road and taking calls.

Martin said, “There’s nothing wrong with hiring advisors” to help him with his job, citing that many people in the public and private sector use advisors. He also stressed that he has an open-door policy for anyone to come discuss questions or problems with him.

Ross expressed concern that the money for the financial advisor and advisor to the sheriff could be used to increase the pay for deputies and fill open positions.

“In the state of things we are in the county I agree the advisement may be needed, but is this the time and the place to spend the $80,000?” he asked.

Nick Graham, also addressed the commission during public comments, saying, “This may not have been the best first week for a new county commission, but we are glad you are here. I hope you take it as a learning experience and keep moving forward. You are the first county commission in the 20 years I’ve been in politics that is here for the right reasons.”

Brad Matkin, Fort Scott City Manager invited the commissioners, clerk, appraiser, and whomever the commission sees fit to bring, to a combined county/city work session on Thurs. Feb. 6 at 5:30 at Memorial Hall in Ft. Scott, with supper and drinks provided by the city. The agenda for the meeting will be made public. The public are welcome to attend and the meeting will be live-streamed on Facebook.

“This is something we’ve got to do. We’ve got to be on the same page,” Matkin said. “We’ve tried in the past but it didn’t work because of egos, but that won’t be the case this time.”

Matkin went on to encourage the commission: “I appreciate you guys doing this [serving as commissioners]. You need anything from me, you ask me.”

“Do not use the rumor mill,” he said. “If you use Facebook to determine your way of managing here, it’s not going to be good.”

Shayla Snider addressed Pike Lake Reservoir project, asking the commissioners their positions on the issue.

Whisenhunt said he is “150% against the reservoir project. I’ll do everything I can to make sure it doesn’t come back.”

Kruger said he didn’t know enough to speak on it.

Beerbower said he’s been against it from the beginning. It wasn’t operated properly from the beginning, and includes a cemetery. “I believe in property rights for the property owners.”

Michael Hoyt asked about moving forward on the change to 5 commissioner districts. He was told that legal descriptions of the new districts are needed before the maps can be published.

Hoyt suggested that the county not ask for permission for a special election, but “ask forgiveness after we do it.” He is concerned that by doing it the state way, we will mix a partisan election (city, school board, college) with a non-partisan election (county commissioners). he recommended getting the party officials of both Republicans and Democrats to solicit for names for the positions and just have the election.

The commission held executive sessions to talk with County Counselor Candidates Matthew Bonner, Jacob Bylanumburg. Another executive session was held for the commission to discuss the hiring of one of the three candidates they spoke with to be the new county counselor.

Beerbower made the motion to hire Jacob Bylanumberg for County Counselor. Whisenhunt seconded. The motion passed with Kruger opposing.

A representative of Kingbird Solar Energy, LLC came to ask the commission to terminate agreements made with the county in 2024 so the company can start fresh working with the new commission. The development agreement, decommissioning agreement, and road and maintenance agreement were all terminated by the county.

2024 end of year review and financial transfers with County Clerk Susan Walker was next. The review will be published, per state statutes.

First, the County Sheriff’s account was negative $10,000 for cash. The Commission needed to move money to pay accounts payable from either the jail sales tax or general fund.

Whisenhunt moved to pull it from the general fund, and the commission approved.

Walker said that funds that did not hit the targeted budget carryover were Election, Road and Bridge, Landfill, and Sewer Repayment, which means they have to cut their budgets by the amount they are short.

She explained the financial report to the commission, saying that they would receive an email report each month.

Bourbon County will pay Freeman all of the EMS taxes collected, per their agreement. Michael Hoyt pointed out that the vote for the sales tax was to pay Freemen once the emergency room is opened, and Walker agreed with him. However, the agreement the county made with Freeman means they will be getting all the revenues from the EMS tax starting now.

Kruger spoke with Freeman, and they mailed the signed agreement on Monday. “I do have a copy of that signed agreement on my phone,” he said.

Budgets categories that went over at the end of 2024 were: Commission by $9,000, Clerks by $5,000; coroner by $32,000, juvenile detention by $7,000, and courthouse general by $9,000.

Walker said the commission has $541,000 left in their budget remaining. She said this is because every department not listed as going over held the line and didn’t overspend.  They deserve a thank you from the commission “because they are the one’s that are truly trying to make a difference and only spend what they have to.”

Whisenhunt made a motion to move $20,000 to cover overages from the sheriff’s department.

Commissioner comments:

Kruger: Freeman had first board meeting at the hospital last Friday. “Everything is a go out there.”

Whisenhunt: “This commission is new and we will stumble, but we will find our feet.” Give us a brief grace period. We are getting training. Please contact us directly for answers to your issues and questions.

Jan. 20, 2025 Bourbon Co. Commissioner Meeting, part 1

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

After starting the meeting prayer after the pledge, a new addition by the new commission, Bourbon County Commissioners spend more than an hour in salary discussions with County Clerk Susan Walker.

Walker began her remarks by giving a brief history of her positions at the county. She was hired in 2022 to assist department heads and county officials as CFO. She stayed in the position, despite the tension it cause because she cares.

“I’ve devoted 20 years to public service, and plan to continue doing just that,” she said. “I ran [for county clerk] on transparency and respect and plan to continue just that.”

She went on to explain that there were many issues with how the county was processing employee pay and benefits as well as tax and insurance problems when she was hired as CFO. Budget and cash basis laws were violated. The county was paying sales tax, though it is an exempted entity. Walker also worked to get the county reimbursed for utility bills. Payments the county owed were not paid on time, causing penalties and grant paperwork was not filed in a timely manner, causing the county to have to pay $38,000 back to the federal government.

Bourbon County’s first clean audit since 2017 was when Walker came on board in 2022.

She said that the salary schedules from the Jan. 13, 2025 meeting needed more discussion, but it wasn’t her place. She explained that $65,000 was budgeted for each elected official’s position, and the dissolving of the position of CFO made the funds available to cover the cost of the increase in pay.

During the budget sessions last summer, a commissioner agreed to fund every department as requested, except the County Clerk, and $26,550 was moved from the clerk’s budget and added to the commission’s budget. The clerk was told  that the new commission could move it back if they wanted.

“I’m asking these funds be moved back to the clerk’s budget,” she said. The extra $20,000 to get employees to the $70,000 that was requested would come from employee benefits as, “we’ve had extra savings due to all the changes that we made last year.”

Walker said she ran for County Clerk because she was given to understand that the CFO position was going to be dissolved, though that was the place she always wanted.

Walker refuted statements about county employees not getting raises with a list of departments that had received extra funds for those raises in the last 2 years.

She also disputed the statement that the county is broke. “We have spent down $1.2 million in cash reserves by lowering taxes but not cutting spending…Cutting spending does mean cutting services even though some do not believe this statement.”

Walker concluded her statements saying, “I want to be a part of the solution to get the county back on track. That is what I was hired to do and that is what I will continue to do…the question is, ‘in what capacity does the commission want me to be in?'”

The commission proceeded to revisit the salary schedule approved at the Jan. 13 meeting.

Commissioner Leroy Kruger apologized for “acting hastily” regarding the new salary schedule in the last meeting and said he wanted to rectify that in the current meeting. He then moved to repeal the raise increases and open them back up for conversation, which the commission approved.

Kruger said that after looking into things and fielding many calls, emails, and texts, he would like to see that those elected officials not at the $58,600 mark be brought up to “at least that if not just a little bit more of a bump to $60,000.” That way if the bill regarding wages which is currently being held up in court does pass, the county is on track to not have to pay back-wages.

He wants to hold off on raises for everyone else until next year and then revisit it annually.

Commissioner Dave Beerbower said that his research shows that in  2019 a salary of $47,428 was approved for the county clerk, register of deeds, and county treasurer.

He commented that previous commissions had the opportunity to increase that and that a 4% increase per year is the corporate average. If that had been compounded over the last 4 years, the current pay rate would be $60,000. He doesn’t think it should all be done in one year, however, and suggested starting now with 4% increase as more reasonable step.

The other part of the salary issue the commission discussed was payment for extra duties, some of which is mandated by law. Currently, budget, payroll, and benefits, are extra duties of the clerk, not mandated by law as part of the legal description of her position. These duties were performed by Walker when she was employed by the county as a CFO. However, that position was dissolved by the last commission, which is part of why Walker ran for County Clerk.

Kruger said that he had spoken with member of other county governments and most of them do pay extra for those duties.

Commissioner Brandon Whisenhunt said, “We gotta look and see how much it would cost us if the clerk wasn’t doing those. I mean, if she’s asking for an extra $20,000 but she’s doing $9,5000-worth of work on top of her regular clerk duties… The only elected official that can do those jobs on a day-to-day basis is the clerk.”

“If the clerk doesn’t…help us with it, then that’s our job,” he said tot he other commissioners.

Beerbower agreed that it makes the most sense for those duties to be part of the county clerk’s position.

The clerk also serves as the election officer for the county, which duties are compensated at $10,000, per state statue.

A document showing salaries of clerks, register of deeds, and treasurers in counties of comparable size, population, and valuation was passed around for the public in attendance to see. This document had been provided to the commissioners at the Jan. 13 meeting.

The $47,428 current salary and no raises given under last commission, puts a big gap between what other counties pay for the same positions and Bourbon County’s current payroll.

Beerbower said same discrepancy exists on all levels in the county.

A citizen attending the meeting spoke up and said there’s no good fix to the situation the commissioners inherited. Even if they do a 4%-per-year raise they will continue to lag behind comparable counties and the next commission will inherit a similar mess to what they are dealing with now.

There’s not been a salary solution for at least four years, said Lora Holdridge, Register of Deeds.

The 2025 budget approved by the previous commission, which included base salary rates of $65,000 for the sheriff, register of deeds, and county treasurer, but not the county clerk, was not revenue neutral.

Beerbower asked how the county will get back to revenue neutral.

Walker listed insurance rates, both liability and health, as the main reason for the increasing county budget.

She explained that assessed values will either stay the same or come up a little. Not taking advantage of that in the county’s expenditures is how to stay revenue neutral.

She then reiterated that money for raises is coming from removal of CFO position.

Beerbower continued to point out that the rest of the county employees hadn’t received raises either.

Kruger stated that it’s up to the new commission to start fixing the issues of the broken system they have inherited, seeking fairness for the employees and the public.

There’s very few departments that have the ability to give themselves or their employees raises out of their regular budget without coming to the commission, said Walker.

Bigger budgets have lots of leeway to create raises in their department meetings.

“I’ve been drug through the mud on this. But I’m also standing up for what I think is right.” said Walker.

Walker also pushed the commission to make a decision, reminding them that she is running payroll this week and needs to know what to pay people.

Kruger: Get everyone to $60,000 Register of Deeds, County Treasurer and County Clerk. Everyone else stays the same. Also pay the required extra duties.

Beerbower said that payroll and benefits were done by the clerk before Walker was hired as CFO in 2022. Walker reminded the commission that the county was not in compliance with statues and had various other financial problems that she had had to rectify as CFO.  Whisenhunt reminded that if the county is not in compliance with statutes for the county budget they can be written up in audit and can be fined.

Beerbower said of base salaries, “I don’t have an issue with increasing it to $58,600.” Then said he was “not opposed” to having another set of eyes look at the budget.

Whisenhunt weighed in with, “We need to do the payroll and benefits. I think if we do the $60,000 and the extras for the extra work, that gets ’em close. Then we dig through the budget and see where we can scrimp and save to start getting the other departments up to the level of the neighbors.”

“There’s room somewhere. We just have to figure out where we’re spending. I mean we’re a government, there’s lots of inefficiencies,” he said.

Beerbower made motion to set the salaries for county clerk, register of deeds, and county treasurer at $58,600 and that the sheriff, attorney, and county commissioner salaries stay the same; the motor vehicle and investment officer extra duty at $10,000 for the treasurer’s office; register of deeds $5000 for road officer, and the county clerk receive $10,000 for election officer, $6000 for payroll and benefits and table the budget, which includes financial review, to be discussed at a later date.

There was no second

Kruger made a motion similar to Beerbowers but with a base salary of $60,000 and extra duties as posted on the original sheet including $10,000 for extra duties of the clerk.

Whisenhunt seconded and the motion passed. Kruger and Whisenhunt: Yes. Beerbower: No

The commission took a 5 minute break 1 hour and 10 minutes in to the meeting so Walker could created a new salary resolution.

 

New Commission voted for four year moratorium on solar

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Two new commissioners began their duties at the Jan. 13th meeting, wrapping it up by voting unanimously for a 48 month moratorium on solar projects.

The new commission consists of Brandon Whisenhunt for District 1, David Beerbower for District 2, and Leroy Kruger for District 3.

The meeting began with a Flood Plane Management Public Hearing.

Brian Allen of Bourbon County Emergency Management explained that every time the federal government changes the flood maps, the county has to redo the resolution to allow those who live in the flood plane to have flood insurance.

Regarding the changes to the maps, he said that more territory went out than came in to the flood plane.

The new maps will be available for public viewing at the courthouse until the next commissioner meeting on Jan. 20.

The commission tabled the flood plane resolution until the Jan. 20 meeting.

Brian Allen also reported on a study from Texas A&M about the dangers of lithium ion battery fires associated with solar projects, but said he was still searching for information on panel fires.

During public comments, Pete Hornsby asked the commission to consider all the citizens of Bourbon County. He expressed faith in the commission.

Nick Grand spoke about the commissioners’ time. “I have full faith you’re going to do your jobs to the fullest…You got a lot on your plate,” he said. He encouraged them not to devalue their time in light of the importance of family and the brevity of life. Grand claimed that Bourbon County commissioners are already underpaid, compared to nearby counties and should consider, if possible, giving themselves a raise to previous pay levels or even above.

Theresa Davenport, president, and Corey Bryars, VP of the board of Care to Share gave an update to the county about what their organization has been doing to help cancer victims in Bourbon, Lynn, and Crawford Counties. They were not requesting anything from the county.

Board Members: Richard Long, Leah Lewis, Clay Campbell were also at the meeting. Clay Campbell gave a brief testimony of how much Care to Share helped his family during cancer. He joined the organization as soon as he was able to retire. He asked those in attendance to please consider volunteering and donating items to fundraisers. “It’s been a good adventure.”

Care the Share was founded in 2007. It covers Bourbon, Lynn, and Crawford Counties and is 100% volunteer based. Their mission is to provide friendship and support through emotional and financial assistance to cancer fighters and their care givers because we care to share.

Intake coordinators assess needs on an individual basis from financial help to physical help. “We want to help people financially, but we want to help them emotionally too,” said Davenport.

Davenport encouraged those present to volunteer in a number of ways. “Anybody can do anything.”

Care to Share now has a van and a ride coordinator, Dale Cathy. They also facilitate a cancer support group meeting four times a year. The next one is March 1.

Bryars reported that in 2024 Care to Share gave $100,000 back to the community, as they did in 2022 and 2023. He explained that means about 10 times per day, someone is having a need met by Care to Share.

Money is raised by donations and memorials. Largest donation was $5000, but the bulk of the $300,000 raised over the last three years was in small increments that “all add up.” Money also comes in from grants. “Timken threw a $70,000 grant our way last year,” Bryars said, earmarked for a mobile community stage, which Care to Share now has available to loan to the community for a donation.

He listed a number of fundraising events with sponsors, including FortFest, a golf event, and February Fling this Feb. 15 with a piano player who does Elton John- and Billy Joel- type tributes. He said they are hoping for more help alongside the city of Fort Scott to host events and performers from outside the area to bring in more funds as well.

Bourbon County is the largest recipient of funds from Care to Share and donations from the county match expenditures within it.

Because of God and the community’s help, “We’ve never had to turn anybody down,” said Davenport.

“We’ve given out over $1.6 million dollars back to the community since founding,” said Bryars. “$20 at a time. I mean, it’s hard for me to comprehend.”

Care to Share has moved into new office at 9 E. Wall and will have a community open house soon. They are open for walk-ins, Mon. Wed. Fri. 11-2. There is also Care to Share merchandise for sale and plans to have other vendors selling items with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Care to Share. Through subletting some of the space and donations, current rent for the space is costing Care to Share nothing out of pocket other than utilities.

The commission held three separate executive sessions to discuss non-elected personnel. They also spoke in executive session with County Counselor Candidate Bob Johnson. Who lives in Humbolt and has been practicing law for 28 years, and county counselor for 24 years.  No other candidates for the position attended the meeting.

No action was taken to fill the vacant position.

The monthly report from public works included annual interim bridge inspections, mandated by KDOT, with 22 structures due for inspect. Commission voted, per recommendation to hire Schwab Eton to do the inspections as they have for the last 20 years for $11,025.

The Blake Quarry blast last week produced 47000 tons. They are now waiting for weather to cooperate to start crushing the rock.

There will be a FEMA flood followup meeting Thursday to get back on track after the holidays and get funding brought in.

Ice storm went really well as far as the county’s work goes, pre-treating for faster melt-off after the event with a salt gravel mix.

Regarding the  snow storm dropping 3-5 inches of wet snow, which packed down and slicked up, the county was able to clear and plow the roads by the afternoon.

Whisenhunt mention an accident on Yale Road which brought up the question of having the county grade gravel roads in snow and ice. Beerbower suggested a work session to assess what the current plan and any changes.

The commission expressed gratitude to road crews for their hard work during the storms.

County Clerk Susan Walker spoke to the commission about a number of items. She mentioned that there are lots of statutes that the commission and other elected officials are governed by, and gave the commissioners a collection of laws that apply to commission for publication, public hearings, etc.

Susan Walker said Amy Kramer said the State messed up in distributing tax funds to the county. Bourbon County received a distribution that should have gone to cities in the county, “so we’ll have to cut checks to them,” Walker explained. Then they will have to move the money that goes into public works in the public safety fund. “We have a lot of fixing we’ve got to do,” she said.

Walker explained that Freeman contract audit committee Payment of $500,000 cannot be made from sale tax, since it’s not the county’s money, they really only have $50,000, which would be the December distribution for the sales tax funds.

“What I need you guys to make a motion on is for me to reallocate the sales tax money that was already spent for Freeman to be taken out of the general equipment reserve fund in the amount of $114,837.39,” she said.

That takes the general reserve fund down to $48,517.95 as of the end of 2024.

The next hiccup, she said, is that the county has not gotten a contract back from Freeman, so the commission needs to create a point of contact for Freeman. “I’m kind of uncomfortable because we have sent money to them, so we need to get on this as soon as possible,” she said.

Leroy Kruger was made the point of contact for Freeman going forward.

The commissioners also approved a salary resolution for elected and appointed officials, the heads of departments.

Walker explained that the County Clerk, Treasurer, Register of Deeds are underpaid in Bourbon County compared to similar counties, and the new schedule brings the pay up to a more comparable pay rate. This was made possible because the various departments did a good job of keeping a carryover in their budgets this last year. The sheriff has been increased from $60,000 to $70,000. County Attorney and EMS director have received increases as well.

Beerbower asked about pay raises for corrections officers and public works employees. He also asked for another week to look at the numbers.

Whisenhunt said he had been one of those who worked hard to put together the 2025 budget, which allows for this new pay schedule and he wanted to approve it.

Kruger made the motion to approve the resolution. It carried 2/1 with Beerbower voting against.

Human Resources liaison for the county commission is now Kruger.

During commissioner comments Beerbower made a motion to discuss a moratorium on solar.

He then read a rough draft of a resolution he had written, based on a template from other counties doing the same thing, regarding a non-expiring moratorium on the construction and operation of solar projects commonly referred to as the Hinton Creek, Kingsburg, and Tennison Creek solar projects, and all other similar projects. The resolution mentioned that these cannot be effectively responded to by the Bourbon County fire department to negate such risks to the public health and welfare of the citizens of the county.

Whisenhunt explained that Bourbon Co rural fire is not equipped to fight a solar panel fire. Turnout gear alone is $3700 per fireman, let alone the pumps and equipment. The county doesn’t have the budget to bring it up to that standard.

A citizen handed out a copy of a lawyer-reviewed resolution for a 48 month moratorium.

Whisenhunt made the motion to adopt the resolution to enact a moratorium on solar projects for 48 months, good until Jan. 13, 2029, and the commission approved it unanimously.

Beerbower shared his vision statement for Bourbon County, ” I envision a board of leaders where the same old same old is not an option, where innovation and traditional values together cultivate a thriving community fostering growth in our future generations.”

Kruger said his vision is to give the voice back to the people and offer an attentive ear, doing the best he can to make a good decision that benefits the majority.

Whisenhunt thanked the county for their support and asked that the citizens would “keep letting us know what we’re doing wrong and right so we know what direction to go.”

12/30/2024 Bourbon County Commissioner Meeting

Commission approves map making five commissioner districts of Bourbon County.

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

The meeting opened with a full audience.

Dustin Lewis spoke to the commission regarding a potential housing unit Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). He expressed a desire to build a 20-30 2000 sq. ft. single home housing development. He said they were looking for right location to bring it into the area in the next year. He was not asking county for anything at this time.

Commissioner Harris said he was very excited about this opportunity and asked if there was anything the county to do to help. Nothing needed at this time.

A Legacy property MOU was also discussed. Commissioner Clifton Beth said, “We need development.”

The property under discussion is located near the hospital, and has a call back on it and the county must release it in order for Legacy to develop said property. Commissioners Beth and Harris said that Legacy has fulfilled it’s contract in light of the call back on the lots near the hospital. Wisenhunt said he’s never seen the contract. Beth read out some information from the MOU stating, “Lots one and two are transferred to KRI, already. Lot five would be transferred back to Bourbon County for EMS services.” Legacy will provide the quit claim deed to the county for filing before the year end. Legacy paid for the survey for lot 5.

Beth said, “I would like to see the land developed…Maybe this would be one that they could do.”

A citizen requested that the commission to wait to release the call backs on the 11 acres directly south of the hospital until Freeman opens the hospital in June to be sure Legacy has fulfilled their contract with the county. Beth expressed concern over losing the housing project to Crawford County.

Wisenhunt expressed his belief that it will take time to create the development, anyway and waiting until June isn’t a big deal.

Harris suggested tabling it for a week. Wisenhunt offered to do some research.

Kaety Bowers spoke to the commission as Republican County Chair, thanking Harris and Beth for their service and wishing Wisenhunt a successful completion of his term.

She then spoke “as a concerned citizen of Bourbon County.” She expressed desire to start the year off in a positive manner, then asked the commission to alleviate concerns she’s heard for a number of citizens by signing an affidavit, which she offered to read. Harris immediately asked for a week to review it. Bowers said, “perfect.” Upon looking over the document, Harris said, “I take this as an insult.”

“I apologize. It’s not meant that way,” she replied, reiterating that her intention is to be positive and not to tarnish anyone’s reputation. Harris expressed that any of his constituents could talk to him directly if they have questions. He asked where the Democrat Party chair was. Bowers said she had not been able to get a hold of him or her.

Beth agreed with Harris and asked why no one came to him directly with questions.

Harris said his reputation was tarnished when people lied about him in the newspaper and on Facebook.

Beth laughed at the idea that Facebook would be the place for him to answer questions.

Wisenhunt weighed in, addressing Beth: “First of all, there’s been several people stand at that podium and ask you questions, and you get exactly like that, Clifton. You are the most disrespectful commissioner I’ve seen in ANY committee meeting. I will sign it for you, Kaety, because I’m ___________ honest.” Citizen’s in attendance clapped at the end of his remarks.

“My intent with this was just to give you guys a chance in a public form,” said Bowers.

Beth and Wisenhunt began an argument about accusations of dishonesty and disrespect. Harris intervened and stopped the argument to continue the meeting.

Next, Mark McCoy with Bourbon County REDI addressed the commission regarding funds for work REDI had done in 2024.

Harris said that after looking at the budget, he doesn’t see any funds for them. He suggested that REDI regroup and start a new relationship with the new commission.

Wisenhunt: “I agree that we need economic development in our county. I think, money-wise, right now it’s a bad time. I would like to see REDI regroup, come back together and maybe start letting us know at least monthly what we’re working on, working towards, so we can get you the help from the County Commission if need be. We can reach out and get the community more involved in it.”

McCoy mentioned that communication between the county and the city should probably increase for successful of economic development. “Without everybody working together, it’s never going to happen.”

Justin Meeks, in his final acts as county counselor, reported that he hand-delivered the original Freeman agreements to Patrina Richards, general counsel for Freeman, and she expects to have them back by Jan. 3. “Once those are done, I think everything on the county’s end will be satisfied and we’ll be good to go down the road…. I’m excited to have them here. I think it will be good.”

Redistricting talk was the final agenda item. Commissioner Harris invited the citizen’s committee members to pull up a chair. He indicated that the maps had been available for viewing in the foyer before the meeting. Everyone then took about 6 minutes to look go to the foyer and look over the maps during the meeting.

Clifton Beth preferred map Number 2, as did the rest of the commission and those members of the committee that Harris heard from. Harris made the motion to accept Map 2, and the commission voted unanimously to do so.

Wisenhunt then made motion to adopt the resolution 15 for 2024 establishing commission districts for Bourbon County changing the number of commission districts from 3 to 5, per the vote of Nov. 5, 2024.

There was not further discussion from the audience or commission and the motion carried.

Another motion to create a special election on or before April 15, 2025 to fill the new districts was also carried unanimously.

Commission comments wrapped up the meeting. First, Wisenhunt apologized for his attitude and losing his cool earlier in the meeting. Next, Jim Harris mentioned, regarding his response to Katie Bower’s affidavit, “Please don’t question my integrity, my honestly, and my love for Jesus Christ. I’m going to walk away in a week with a good conscience.”

Bourbon County Commission Meeting 12-23-24

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Freeman of Ft. Scott and funding for a Sheriff’s Department  Financial Advisor top commissioner meeting activity on Dec. 23.

The commission dealt with several business items related to the re-opening of a hospital in Bourbon County and the county’s relationship with Freeman of Fort Scott. The approved a memorandum of understanding between Bourbon County and Freeman Fort Scott. This is to understand the way they’re going to spend the sales tax dollars they receive and let the county know how their going to spend it. Commission voted to sign in.

An agreement for equipment list that Freeman of Ft. Scott wanted from the hospital building was approved and signed.

The commission also approved and signed a letter to the IRS on behalf of Freeman of Ft. Scott, explaining that the hospital is committing to be open by June 1, 2025 and asking for patience regarding paying taxes.

Sheriff Bill Martin, presented his request for funding for a financial advisor again. Since the Dec. 19 commission meeting, financial information for the county was collecting showing $21,800 from county counselor’s budget that could be moved to the Sheriff, and $64,000 in the courthouse maintenance fund which could also be moved, as well as $50,000 in the commissioner contingency fund. This protects the $250,000 cash carryover from 2024 going into 2025.

Mr. Hart from the firm of Baker Tilly explained his approach to financial advising and how he can help the Sheriff’s office.

Beth made motion to transfer $36,000 to pay Baker Tilly from the commissioners contingency fund and that if the funds are not available, the money be moved from the county counselor or courthouse maintenance fund. The agreement is for $3000 per month. Beth and Harris voted for it, Wisenhunt against.

During the public comments section of the meeting, Heather Ethridge, president of West Plains and Centerville cemetaries presented an issue regarding recording deeds of burial sites. She presented a thick stack of deed papers and asked if there is a way to have them scanned in to the county’s records for future reference. “They don’t need to be registered,” she said, just recorded for access by those who purchased them, should they loose their own records. No taxes are paid on the deeds, but the current cost is $23 to register each deed, and the cemeteries don’t have the budget for that. Taxes for maintenance of cemeteries are paid by residents of towns served by cemeteries. Some donations as well as perpetual care funds help with improvements and maintenance such as surveys and maps.

The commissioners are in favor of waiving the fees, but will have to research it to be sure to follow all regulations before taking any further action.

Deb McCoy brought up her concern regarding California Legacy Healthcare’s tax abatement situation. McCoy claims the county doesn’t have a standard policy and procedure when it comes to submitting applications for tax exemptions and so should follow the state guidelines. California Legacy Healthcare completed the tax exemption application and had it notarized on March 11, 2024. State statutes provide for tax exemptions for hospitals. However, the building and land was not a hospital from 2022-23 and Legacy has not paid the $400,000 tax bill for that time. McCoy maintains that Legacy has taken advantage of the community “at every twist and turn,” and asked the commission if they are going to allow Legacy to walk away from their outstanding tax bill. Her main contention was that the county doesn’t have it’s own procedures for filing for tax exemptions.

Legacy was helpful in getting KRI and Freeman to begin re-opening a hospital in Bourbon county, claim commissioners Beth and Harris. Harris also stated that the state has forgiven the $400,000. “Legacy did a good job,” said Harris.

“It’s not an opinion, actually. KRI is here strictly because of Legacy and only because of Legacy. That’s the facts,” claimed Beth.

Anne Dare stated, “My main concern is that county funds are being doled out so quickly at the end of the year.”

She also mentioned payments made to REDI, per her records request: in 2021, $174,500; in 2022, $300,500; in 2023, $155,000. All of which is well over the $130,000 promised at the beginning. “I would implore you to defund or not use REDI anymore.”

Beth responded that regarding the funding the county gave REDI, “A large portion of that went for grants.” It didn’t go directly into REDI’s pocket.

Another citizen asked if the county budgeted to fund REDI in 2024. Commission Beth answered they did budget for it by putting the money in the commissioner contingency fund.

Kelly Perry, a small business owner in the Bronson area, asked that regarding REDI, the commissioners would install some “checks and balances.” Regarding her own business, she said she hasn’t received any services from REDI but has done all her own grant writing and searching for help for her small business.

She also mentioned that in order for REDI to maintain its charitable status, it cannot bill for services.

Perry concluded that she has been afraid to speak up because of backlash and consequences for her family business. She claimed there are other violations of rules that REDI has committed, but because she served on the REDI board in the past and signed a non-disclosure agreement, she cannot give particulars. She ended by asking the commissioners to do their research before going further with REDI and received applause from citizens at the meeting.

Michael Hoyt presented letters of interest received over the last weeks after he was asked to head a citizen’s committee on redistricting. Hoyt expressed that he did not wish to chair the committee anymore due to negative feedback from the community.

Beth reminded everyone that the company SAM has been hired by the county and is in the process of creating the three maps that the commission will then select from for the new 5-commissioner-district county. Harris expressed the desire for the citizen’s committee to get together and weigh in on the redistricting decision.

A citizen asked for a town hall meeting about the redistricting. Commission states that citizens can come to the commission meeting on Dec. 30 to discuss it at that time.

The committee members are: for District. 1: Kelly Perry, Jim Sachet, Ron Miller; district 2: Josh Jones, Don Tucker, Jean Tucker, Pete Allen, and district 3: JD Handley. Katie Bowers, who was at the commissioner meeting, asked to be added to the committee and was.

New commissioners are sworn in Jan. 13.

Redistricting and REDI fill 12/19 County Commissioner Meeting

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commissioners meeting of Dec. 19, 2024 opened to a packed citizens’ section.

Redistricting was one topic that dominated the meeting.

Commissioner Brandon Wisenhunt started the redistricting discussion by apologizing: “We dropped the ball on the 3 to 5 thing. We should have been working on it as soon as it was on the ballot.” We originally thought the clerk and secretary of state was working on it.” After last meeting Wisenhunt did some more research on the issue. “I want to start off by apologizing to Mr. Hoyt. This is not something that should be citizen-lead.” Wisenhunt went on to explain that it is the “most litigated topic in Kansas, and I would not want to put individual citizens at risk for litigation.”

It is the sole responsibility of the commission to redistrict based on KSA19-204. The current commission must vote in the new districts, per Kansas law. Redistricting is to be completed by January 1, 2025. After consulting with other counties, Wisenhunt says, “We are so far behind in our process it’s almost embarrassing.”

After explaining that there has been distrust between the public and the commission leading to this situation [around the 48 minute mark], the commissioner made several motions to remedy the situation and move the county toward compliance with the law regarding redistricting.

He then made motions to hire SAM, a survey and mapping company, to create three different maps of possible new districts, based on the population of the county and keeping the voting wards and precincts intact. The commission would then choose from those maps to create the 5 districts.

Commissioner Clifton Beth spoke about the citizen’s committee created at the previous county commissioner meeting. He said that it was intended to be an advisory committee, “they have no say in what happens, just advice.”

All committee meetings would be open to the public.

County employee stated that the county cannot produce the needed maps themselves, because the census data is produced in blocks, but the county is divided into precincts and wards. It is in the best interest of the public to pay somebody to do this, so as do avoid any charges of malfeasance. The company, hired by the county will “go in and break the [census] blocks, figure the blocks to fit into the wards because the wards cannot be separated. Precincts can’t be separated.”

He went on to explain to the commission that creating the new districts was beyond his capability, especially within the timeline, “so if we want to get it done in a timely manner we need to use SAM.” He predicted that if the county hired SAM, they could probably get the redistricting done by the end of the following week, Dec. 27.

The commission voted to hire SAM to create the three maps of 5 commission districts of Bourbon County on the motion of Commissioner Beth. SAM’s services will cost $7,600 and the maps will be ready by Dec. 30.

Mark McCoy, chairman of Bourbon County REDI gave an overview of key activities and accomplishments of REDI including conducting several targeted studies to inform strategic planning and decision making. These studies covered labor market trends; data shared with state officials to assist in site selection projects for potential business locations; information to several local business to support HR teams in marketing their companies to prospective employees; and retail selection performance.

REDI also supported several businesses including The Kitchen Collective, Bibs and Dibs, the Artificers, and Bourbon County Clay. REDI’s data was instrumental in grant applications resulting in multiple successful awards.

REDI also conducted housing needs assessment used by external and local developers to promote housing initiatives, as well as sales tax revenue analysis. They made business retention efforts, conducting three years of visits since 2021.

REDI claims that their assistance allowed for the securing of more than $2 million in competitive grant funding with $200,000 already being disbursed.

“REDI distributed more than $150,000 in community grants to fund critical development projects across the county.” These funds provided by the county have been invested in baseball field upgrades in Redfield and Bronson, park improvements in Uniontown, Fort Scott, and Mapleton, a new playground at Kansas Rocks, and $17,000 for Bourbon County EMS to purchase AEDs (defibrillators).

REDI has played a roll in community based projects demonstrating its commitment to partnering with local organizations. Projects include the splash pad and the First Kansas Mural, and the new pavilion down town, promoting civic pride.

Housing developments, REDI is actively engaging developers to address critical housing needs with ongoing initiatives totaling more than $5 million. Working to expand single and multi-family housing options.

REDI organized a county-wide strategic planning session including school districts, Fort Scott Community College, community organizations,and local businesses to identify and address regional challenges.

REDI’s ongoing efforts include the areas of housing, child care, tourism, and health care.

When asked by the commission about the idea of REDI being self-sufficient three years from its formations, McCoy answered that REDI’s previous chairman stated that the goal for REDI was to be self-sufficient in three years from 2020, but the REDI board didn’t vote on that.  McCoy went on to answer Wisenhunt’s questions regarding REDI’s expectation of funds from the county by stating that he has had conversations with the commissioners on 3 previous occasions regarding funding for REDI. He also said that $130,000 was set aside for REDI at the end of 2023 and beginning of 2024 for services rendered and services being paid.

Another citizen claimed that the things REDI is taking credit for helping with in Bourbon county could have been done without their assistance. He then went on to ask how much funding REDI is receiving outside of the city and the county.

McCoy says that he is unaware of REDI receiving any funds from anything outside of the county and city. “If we don’t get funded, that is your choice,” he told the commission. “We’re here to provide services and are listed on the Bourbon County website as the county’s economic development entity.”

A former REDi board member asked what the county had asked REDI to do. Expressed concern about the county’s funding limitations and the precedence set by continuing to fund REDI indefinitely.

Deb McCoy presented detailed information she had collected about the history of REDI and its relationships with the city of Fort Scott and Bourbon County. REDI was formed in August of 2021. However, she could produce no signed contracts between Bourbon County and REDI.

Her information stated that the county paid Bourbon Co. REDI between 2021-2023, per expenditure reports, $774,751, that the county didn’t include REDI in the 2024 budget. The city drew up a contract with REDI signed April 8, 2024.

Combined with payments from the city, REDI received $849,918 during that time period.

McCoy asked how the commission to explain these payments and services rendered without signed contracts, pointing out that the expenditures exceed the amounts in those contracts.

Commissioner Beth said that the county did their business via a motion, no contract, but a motion made to create a city/county entity (REDI) for economic development in 2021 and fund it for 3 years at $130,000 per year. Contracts with the city are seperate. The county was paying a one time annual payment per their motion. There were no contracts considered by REDI.

One citizen spoke up, “I’m asking the county, please, you fulfilled your promise, please do not fund this.”

Rob Harrington spoke to the commission about REDI as well, explaining his involvement in REDI: “I’ve given my heart and soul to this community.” Enumerated numerous activities that REDI took part in, including getting health care back in Bourbon County by bringing in KRI, helping revive downtown Ft. Scott by getting viable businesses into unoccupied buildings, and keeping the Artificer’s building stable.

He went on to explain that his children have been harassed on the street asking if they know their dad’s a fraud, and he has received 2 a.m. phone calls saying he should be killed or run out of town.

“Our job at REDI is to bring in new revenue so we can decrease [tax] rates,” he said.

Wisenhunt said he wanted to  wait to decide about funding REDI to “see how much money we have left.”

The commissioners voted to table it for a few weeks until they get final numbers for their finances for the year.

The meeting also included a public hearing for budget amendments. Several funds amended by county due to revenue that has come in that exceeds the budget in various categories for a number of reasons  by $1.3 million: Road and Bridge, Appraisers, Bridge and Culvert, Election, Employee Benefits, Landfill, and Emergency Services sales tax ( The new sales tax fund)

Susan Walker explained that the purpose of the budget hearing is amend to budget to spend un-budgeted extra revenue by the end of the year. However, unspent funds will carry over. Even though the cash is available, a hearing and amendment to the current budget must be made to keep the county from violating budget laws.

Susan went on to answer several questions from the citizens at the meeting explaining the following:

It is ideal to have 3 months of funds carry over every year, but the county usually spends it down to zero, especially in the road and bridge department. The county currently has no plan for a three month carryover for 2025, but they are “working towards that” by building cash reserves.

The county cannot always budget for inflation.

Commissioner Jim Harris said, “Everyone has to keep in mind that we assisted in funding health care. That money could have easily been called carryover because it was in an account and it could have been moved to any cash fund by this commission. For us spending a half million dollars assisting with healthcare, it would strain anyone’s budget, any time any where.”

However, the commission is making steps toward creating a carryover amount, “With Susan’s help, for 2025, we budgeted $450,000 extra cash to help carry over the cash and start building cash reserves again.”

“We are way behind on pay raises (for employees),” said Susan, then she explained that the commission has increased wages for county workers, changing the base pay to $15 and hour and giving them 40 hours a week, up from $13 an hour and 35 hours a week.

In order to keep taxes down, the changes the commission made forced the spending of reserves, “We knew it wasn’t sustainable,” said Susan, “and so now you’re at a rebuilding phase.”

She mentioned the importance of talking about the county’s priorities when building the budget: “I’ve always said, ‘If your going to cut expenses, you’re going to cut services…People need to understand that.”

The county’s budget was decreased by $300,000 for road and bridge in 2024. “That hurts,” said Susan. The county tried to do as much as they possibly could but “it hit them really hard.” Roads and Bridges is also awaiting reimbursement from FEMA for the repairs required by the floods earlier this year, which will help that department rebuild its reserves.

Commissioner Harris prefaced the public comments section of the meeting by reminding those present that the purpose of this section of the commissioner meeting is to discuss county business. He said that if people make personal comments or get insulting, he will end the meeting at that time. He also said that no one can discuss solar or wind farms due to litigation.

Anne Dare said the commission should give clear direction to the citizen’s committee, created for the purposed of advising the commission in the Dec. 12 commissioner meeting, and not allow Michael Hoyt to run it without their direction. She referred to the solar committee the commission created in the past.

Mary Pemberton stated that a committee will just bog the redistricting down. She also stated that REDI should not receive extra funding. They went into the year knowing they weren’t receiving funding, so presenting a bill for work they did isn’t right.

Brian Allen asked for permission to have a public hearing on the new flood plane maps.  on Jan. 13 at 5:30pm

Sherriff Bill Martin brought the commission a financial adviser request. He asked that Ben Hart with Baker Telly, which firm also works for the city of Ft. Scott, be hired as a financial adviser for his department to look through the budgets to find money for pay raises and equipment, as well as big ticket items anticipated in the new future. He was asking the county to pay $34,000 for the services as the Sheriff’s budget has already been approved. This would be a one year contract.

Commissioner Beth said he was in favor of the hire because, “I think you’re going to need it.” Then he moved to fund it from the general fund, starting Friday, Dec. 20. Susan advised to fund it out of the VIN account or tabling it for a week to get a better idea of the funds available.  Sheriff read the statute regarding use of VIN funds stating they are for law enforcement purposes and not to supplement the department’s budget.

Vote was to table it and add it to the next week meeting.

The Ft. Scott hospital equipment agreement and a memorandum of understanding with Freeman Ft. Scott Hospital was presented and tabled until Monday, Dec. 23 meeting to give commissioners time to read over.

The commissioners voted to encumber $50,000 to cover attorney fees for the lawsuits filed against the commission regarding solar panels.

County Commission changes meeting day, votes to create community involvement group

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commissioner meetings will be held on Monday evenings at 5:30, starting after December 19, per the commission’s vote in the Dec. 12 meeting.

Commissioner Clifton Beth made the motion to create a community involvement group of three to four people headed by Michael Hoyte. Motion was approved. (see recording 41:14)

Several citizens attending the meeting expressed gratitude that a time for public comments had been added back into the County Commissioner meeting.

Anne Dare expressed concern about the county’s relationship with Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI), asking, “Do we have a current 2024 contract with REDI? When was the last contract that we had with REDI?”

Commissioner Beth answered, “I don’t know that we ever had one,” Explaining that the county had agreed in 2020 to fund REDI for three years running from 2021-2023, with the idea that they (REDI) would be self-sufficient thereafter.

Dare referenced a request by Mark McCoy to the county for $75,000 for services rendered and asked if a detailed bill had been submitted. Beth replied that it had not.

Referring to a news release stating that REDI had brought in $2 million in projects and major manufacturing developments to the county, Dare asked for “quantifiable, existing results,” and expressed concerns from the community that REDI is not being monitored and held accountable to do the development work they requested payment for.

“The overall feeling is that REDI has had their shot and it might be time to really create a separation from REDI and let the new commission figure out what that needs to look like going forward.”

Michael Hoyte came forward to ask, “Where are we at with the ballot initiative of going from 3 to 5 commissioners? Do we need a citizens committee or coalition to move that forward?” He reminded the commissioners that the voters spoken in the November election, voting to change Bourbon County from three to five  commissioner districts  and then to have elections to seat people there.

Commissioner Brandon Wisenhunt replied, “We are actually working on redistricting the map,” based off the last census. This redistricting will be submitted to the state for approval, then a special election will be held.

Pam and John Spear Senior expressed concerned about the closing of a road near their home on 105th St. south of Maple by fencing being installed by an adjacent property owner. The county assured them that the road would not be closed because the county has a 50-foot easement for their road and access to an adjacent field is required by a third property owner. No further action can be taken until the survey is completed and accepted by the county.

During the monthly report by Eric Bailey, county public works director, Beth addressed the issue of the county and cities “getting along” said that the county doesn’t have the manpower and equipment to do the street repairs and maintenance for cities in Bourbon County, “I hope and I pray that the new county commission doesn’t push for Road and Bridge to do a ton of work for the city when we are … here for the county.”

County employee who used to work for the City of Fort Scott explained that in 2009 the city manager laid off the city’s asphalt crew and has been in a maintenance mode since that time.

Commissioner Beth reiterated that without a great expenditure for manpower and equipment, the county cannot take on city road repairs and maintenance.

Bailey said he expects his department to complete the FEMA-funded repair throughout the county by early January 2025, explaining that most of those repairs have already been done. He mentioned that they haven’t received any funding from FEMA yet, but the paperwork is in and “they have been good to work with.”

He went on to mention that the county is moving out of Thomas quarry and has a blast planned for Jan. 7 at Blake quarry, weather permitting.

The county’s snow equipment is ready to go.

 

 

County Commissioners vote to sign agreement for Emergency Room

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Dec. 5, 2024

(Due to technical difficulties with the meeting recording, the first 6 minutes of this meeting had no sound. Whatever was said at the beginning of that meeting is not in this article.)

The Bourbon County Courthouse, 210 S. National Avenue.

Six citizens in attendance asked several questions about the future of the hospital building and the agreement that the county is making with Freeman to get an emergency room back in Fort Scott.

The commissioner read the agreement for emergency facility aloud in the meeting.

The agreement includes a deadline of opening a fully operational emergency room by June 1, 2025. If Freeman fails to meet the requirements of the agreement without “good cause,” all funds will be returned to the appropriate parties. The deadline for completion may be extended up to six month “for good cause,” but no further.

The commissioner state that the agreement keeps Bourbon County’s taxpayer dollars in Bourbon County.

He also mentioned that there is a separate agreement regarding sales tax that “comes later.”

Citizen asked why date changed from April 1 to June 1. No specific reason was given.

Another citizen asked how much money the county has invested in this. The commissioner responded: $2.5 million plus the building and land.

Other county commissioner acknowledged the discussion that has surrounded the county’s actions regarding the hospital, “was it the right decision, or a bad decision?” As a commissioner, his perspective was that we have “so many dollars in the hopper” and the county wasn’t collecting any rent and was paying all the expenses out of said hopper. He projected it would take about 30 months to use up the money in the hopper at the current rate. This would have led to the choice to either tearing the building down or “go after a lot of taxpayer dollars to keep it open.”

“Now that $2 million came from the federal government and Mercy Hospital.” he said. None of it was county tax dollars and there is documented accounting for all of it.

“It was a gamble,” admits commissioner, referring to the relationship with KRI Freeman, “but it worked. We got very fortunate.”

“Legacy is the reason KRI is here,” said another commissioner. “Let’s not forget everybody involved.”

When a citizen asked if the county could not have just sold the building, the commissioner responded, “we tried to give the building away, and no one would take it.” He listed several organizations and groups that the building was offered to before Legacy took over, including KU Medical, St. Luke’s, Freeman, and Mercy, as well as various developers.

“Legacy will fulfill what they said they would, and we’ll have an emergency room,” was his summarizing of the current situation.

In response to rumors that Legacy is holding up the sale of the old hospital building, the commissioner explained his conversation with the lawyer for Legacy in which the lawyer stated that Legacy has been in talks with KRI’s CFO for 2 months and that, “it seems to me everybody is doing everything they can to get that building transferred.”

Motion to accept agreement was unanimously accepted pending discussed changes.

Commissioners also reaffirmed a vote that had not been properly recorded in the Oct. 31 meeting to the effect of signing a resolution rescinding the moratorium on solar projects in Bourbon County and termination of prior agreements with Creek Solar (?) with an effective date of Oct. 31, 2024