All posts by Loretta George

Fort Scott, Schools

New Teachers at Eugene Ware: Sarah Hendricks and Anna Kim

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This is part of a series featuring new educators in Fort Scott.

There are 26 new educators in USD 234 this year.

Sarah Hendricks and Anna Kim are two new teachers at Eugene Ware Elementary School.

Sarah Hendricks. Submitted photo.
Sarah Hendricks, 22, is a new fourth grade teacher at Eugene Ware Elementary School in Fort Scott.
She received a Bachelors in Science for Elementary Education at Kansas State University and taught second grade last year at Pleasanton.
She is from Olathe.
Her husband is Caleb Hendricks, who is the head football coach for Pleasanton.
Hendricks  interests outside of school are traveling, “going on runs with my dog and watching my husband coach football,” she said.
Since a small child, she knew she wanted to be a teacher.

“It was something I knew that I always wanted to do, so it is a dream come true to be able to do this job,” she said.

“I had great teachers growing up so I always wanted to be like them,” she said.” I learned from them, but I also knew I was loved and cared for at school, I want to do the same for my students.”
For Hendricks, the best part of teaching is getting to know all of the kids and making connections with them.
“I strive to be someone who students look up to and go to whenever they may be having a difficult time whether it’s in academics or not,” she said.
“The biggest challenge in teaching for me, is knowing that I can’t fix everything in my students’ lives,” she said. “It’s hard not to bring work home.”
Anna Kim. Submitted photo.
Anna Kim, 35, is a new fifth grade teacher at Eugene Ware.
Kim is a hometown girl, that has landed back in Fort Scott.
She went to school in Fort Scott from kindergarten through high school then earned a B.A. in Cross-Cultural Ministries from Manhattan Christian College (2009) and M.A. in Teaching from Kansas State University (2022).

 

“I have been teaching in different ways for twelve years, primarily in China,” she said. “I coordinated a volunteer English teaching program for Chinese migrant students, taught third grade at an international school, and English as a Second Language at a Chinese elementary school. I have also taught online and been a substitute teacher.”

“My husband, Jong Kim, is running a restaurant in the Philippines, but will join us in Fort Scott soon,” she said. They have two kids, Naomi (6) and Josiah (3).
My parents, Curt and Kelly Toll, have taught and coached in Fort Scott in the past. My twin brother lives in Colorado with his wife and daughter.
Her involvement with the community centers around spending time with family. “I also attend and teach Sunday School at Community Christian Church,” she said.
How did you become a  teacher?
“For my first official teaching job, the school my husband worked for in China called me in and said, ‘We need a third grade teacher!’ I said, ‘Absolutely not! Not me!’. They said, ‘You’re hired.’The first year was very challenging, but I slowly adjusted and realized I really enjoyed teaching children.
Is there someone who inspired you?
“My mom has been a teacher my whole life. She has always made learning fun and made kids feel special. She is definitely a model of the teacher I want to be.”
What is the best part of teaching for you?
“One of the best parts of being a teacher is seeing students grasp something that was challenging. Building pride and confidence in students is priceless. Another fun aspect is that every day is different. Kids are hilarious and unpredictable.”
What are the challenges?
“Students today face hardships at home, with friends, and on social media like never before. Teachers are not only responsible for the academic success of students, but also for their overall well-being. It is a huge responsibility.”
Bourbon County, Food, Fort Scott

The Beacon Staff: Increase In Need Is Seen

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Dave Gillen and Patty Mowen are the co-directors of The Beacon Food Pantry of Bourbon County. Submitted photo.
The Beacon Food Pantry of Bourbon County is seeing an increase in need.
“We have seen a uptick in new families this summer,” Dave Gillen, director of the pantry said. “New families have been the larger families. I believe with the increase in prices of everything their money does not go as far. “
The pantry is running low on a few things and  are paying more for things they must purchase for food baskets.
THE BEACON IS IN NEED OF A FEW ITEMS:
Specifically, the Beacon is in need of boxed marcaroni and cheese, Ramen noodles, boxed cereal and spaghetti noodles.
The Beacon is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
It is closed Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
The phone number is (620) 223-6869.
It is located at 525 E. Sixth Street, Fort Scott.
The Beacon is  a not-for-profit organization,  a food pantry serving Bourbon County, Kansas, that also provides financial assistance.
Business, Fort Scott

New Restaurant and Pub Coming to Downtown Fort Scott

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From left: Bret and Sara Holder, Pat McDonald and Kim and Robert Coon are the investors in Pizza Republic.

A new restaurant and pub is on the horizon for downtown Fort Scott, called Pizza Republic.

“We want to make sure people have good options,” Bret Holder, the president of the new business venture said. “You’ll get a great meal and it’s a place for the whole family.”

Robert and Kimberly Coon, owners of 17 S. Main, the old Kress Building, are partnering with Pat McDonald and Bret and Sara Holder, all of Fort Scott,  and Dennis Moon, Houston, TX, Sara’s uncle, to open the new business venture by September 1.

Demolition is taking place inside 17 S. Main, in preparation for the new restaurant, Pizza Republic.

Bret Holder is the president of Pizza Republic, and has 20 years of corporate law experience, he said. “I am setting the vision, and making sure it’s going,” he said.

Pat McDonald just moved from Kansas City Northland, and has previous restaurant ownership experience: PatMacs in Kansas City. He is also an investor, chief chef and manager, he said.

Moon is the treasurer of the new venture, Holder said.

The Coons have been facilitating the reno of the first floor,  5,000 square foot of space, that will be divided into a family dining area, a bar, a large kitchen and an office space.

In the family side will be arcade games, a juke box, 10-plus big screen TVs and space for live music on occasion.

“It’s a big thing coming,” Robert Coon said. “The new floor plan requires a lot of reconstruction. The restaurant and pub will take up the entire first floor.”

“Kim and I have a residential construction crew, that we are having them take time off from that, to work on this,” he said. “We’ve been working non-stop.”

Demo workers are employed by Robert and Kim Coon, from left, Noah Terry, Drake Garcia, and Dacoda Garcia, all of Fort Scott.

The idea for the business has been percolating for some time.

“Bret and Pat approached me quite some time ago, but I wasn’t open to the idea because the building was already rented,” he said.

A sushi restaurant business was formerly the renter of a portion of the first floor.

“The sushi restaurant closed on July 5,” Coon said.

The new restaurant plans to employ 15-20 people, Holder said.

The ideal candidates for employment are “go-getters from Fort Scott High School and Fort Scott Community College and others,” Holder said.

Holder, a veteran,  said the reason he moved to Fort Scott “was to help veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome with Adam LaRoche.”

Adam LaRoche, retired from major league baseball, along with his wife, Jennifer, both of Fort Scott, are the founders of the E3 Ranch Foundation.  Together, they are committed to put God’s love into action, through supporting combat wounded veterans, fighting against sex-trafficking, and providing support during humanitarian crises globally, according to their website.

In the future, Holder sees opportunities for veterans getting training at this restaurant for future franchises.

“The plan is open other restaurants, in other towns,” Holder said.

 

 

 

 

 

Obituary

Obituary of BERNARD l. “BUD” RAUSCHENBERGER

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Bernard Lee Rauschenberger, “Bud”, 75, passed away Monday, July 11, 2022, in Fort Scott, Kansas, surrounded by loved ones at his home at the time of his death. He was born October 31, 1946, in Butler, Pennsylvania, the son of William Frank and Jeanette (Raybuch)

Rauschenberger. He married Nolene Mochel October 12, 1962, in Butler, Pennsylvania. They were married for over 50 years, and she preceded him in death. Out of that union were born four children.

 

Bud was a Jack of All Trades – Master of Some; he was a pastor, Bible School worker, Missionary, truck driver, caretaker, and autobody technician.

 

Bud is survived by his son, Brian (Jamie) Rauschenberger, of Jackson, Kentucky, and their children, Jessica (Jonathan) Barthelemy, Benjamin Rauschenberger (deceased), Brooke (Jeremy) Wright; daughter, Lisa (Robert) Price of Elwood, Indiana, and their children, Lacy Massey, Cody (Elizabeth) Price, Leeza (Jordan) Jackman, Kyle Price, LeAnn Price; daughter, Amy (Nathan) Bryant, of Fort Scott, Kansas, and their children, Amanda (Chris) Pierre, Nolan (Shelly) Bryant, Nathaniel (Emily) Bryant, Nicholas (Rhonda) Bryant; son, David (Mindy) Rauschenberger of Carmel, Indiana, and their children, Cory Rauschenberger (deceased), Audrey Rauschenberger, Tyler Rauschenberger, Grace Rauschenberger, Emma Rauschenberger. He is also survived by a brother, Frank Rauschenberger, three sisters, Joyce Benson, Linda Powell, and Sally Sebak, and sixteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Nolene, Bud was also preceded in death by his parents, two grandchildren, Benjamin Rauschenberger, and Cory Rauschenberger, and two sisters, Cathy McNight, and Peggy Turano, and a brother, James Rauschenberger.

 

Endearingly called Bud, he was loved by many. He lived a life for Jesus Christ and made Heaven his home for all eternity. His life story and conversion was aired on the Unshackled program, #3680.

We as a family plan to see him again! We are coming Mama & Papaw, so make room – this is just a “see ya later!”

A Celebration of Life is being planned for October 29, 2022, at Mt. Zion Bible School in Ava, Missouri.   Local arrangements are under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commissioner Lynne Oharah Resigns

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Lynne Oharah
Lynne Oharah resigned  from the Bourbon County Commission as the District 1 Commissioner on July 13, 2022.
“I served seven and one-half years as commissioner,” Oharah said. “I enjoyed being a commissioner and I feel we did a lot of good things. I want to thank all of my constituents for putting up with me…and I sincerely wish Bourbon County the best of luck in the future.”
The resignation came about because the commission could not find a person to fill the position of Bourbon County Medical Facility Director at the former Mercy Hospital building which the county now owns, Oharah said, so he applied. The facility now houses Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas Clinic and Ascension Via Christi Emergency Department, I Am Rehab and a beauty salon.
Oharah started as the new director on July 13, 2022.
“The reason I resigned was that we could not find anyone to fill the Bourbon County Medical Facility Director position,” he said. “Some of my background was managing central offices, telephone switching offices in Western Kansas, for 10 years. Larger offices in places like Dodge, Garden City, Scott City and Liberal. The medical facility is the same concept, just more regulations, so it’s a good fit.”
The facility is 177,00 square feet and there are two other employees who work to keep the building maintained.
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas Clinic, 401 Woodland Hills, just off Hwy. 69 south of Fort Scott.
Ascension Via Christi operates the emergency department at the former Mercy Hospital building.
The Bourbon County Republican Committee will meet on  Thursday, August  4 from 6 to 8 p,m.  at the Empress center, 7 N. Main St. to decide on a new county commissioner.
“Voting is by committee members, one man and one woman from from the 18 different precincts,” Mark McCoy, chairman, said. “We will select one person that night and send to the governor’s office for approval. To be eligible the candidate must reside in the first commission district and be a member of the Republican Party.”
The first district is north and west of Fort Scott to the Allen and Linn County lines.
Bourbon County Commission Districts map taken from the county’s website.
Bourbon County, Government, K-State Extension

K-State Extension Offers Bread Basics Class August 18

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Bread Basics Class

Thursday, August 18th, 6pm

Fort Scott First Southern Baptist Church

1818 N. Main St.

Interested in breadmaking?

Join the Southwind Extension District’s Master Food Volunteer Terri Williams and Agent Clara Wicoff for “Bread Basics” on August 18th at 6 PM at the First Southern Baptist Church in Fort Scott. Terri will lead you in baking (as well as tasting!) Italian bread, no-knead bran rolls, and whole wheat pizza crust. Breadmaking techniques will also be discussed. This class is free, but an RSVP is required by calling us at 620-365-2242. If you have questions, please contact Clara Wicoff at that same phone number or via email at [email protected].

Thank you to our Chamber Champions for all of your support!
Business, Fort Scott

John Bartlesmeyer: 60 Years in the Craft

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John Bartelsmeyer in front of his jewelry store on North Main in Fort Scott.

John Bartelsmeyer, Fort Scott’s jeweler, is training the next generation of jewelers.

Bartelsmeyer Jewelry specializes in retail jewelry sales, engagement rings, custom jewelry designs, and repair or restoration of all types of jewelry.

Krysta Hulbert has been working for him since 2010, and has been learning ring sizing, general jewelry repair, chain repair, welding with a torch and engraving.

Krysta and Wyatt Hulbert. Submitted photo.

Her husband, Wyatt, has been coming in on his days off his regular job to learn some of the trade as well.

“Wyatt is learning ring sizing and in the near future-diamond setting, stone setting and making pendants,” Bartelsmeyer said.

 

Jeweler John Bartelsmeyer works on a piece of jewelry.

Bartelsmeyer started learning from his dad, Bart, at Newberry Jewelry. His dad had apprenticed as a watchmaker.

“In 1963, my dad bought the shop from Newberry’s widow,” he said.
“I had already been working with him after school on Saturdays.”

“So, I have been doing it for 60 years,” he said.

Through the years, Bartelsmeyer not only learned from his dad, but took jewelry seminars and schools and most recently gleans from You Tube, on the internet.

He credits Elmer Smith, who was a Fort Scott Community College welding instructor, with helping him learn to be a metalsmith, and eventually Bartelsmeyer helped teach the class.

“I love to move metal,” he said. “He taught me techniques I use everyday.”

Bartelsmeyer restores heirloom jewelry and also crafts chains out of gold and silver.

“I love what I am doing, I think it’s because of the smile on the customer’s face,” he said. “I get to work on beautiful things for beautiful people.”

The Bartelsmeyer Jewelry store, looking to the street.

 

The store features new and also estate sale jewelry.
Bartelsmeyer Jewelry is at 22 N. Main, Fort Scott and can be reached at 620.223.2070, email: [email protected] or website: bartelsmeyerjewelry.com

John works Wednesday-Saturday.
Bourbon County, Fair

Merchant’s Building at the Fair Features Local Cottage Industry Businesses

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The Merchants Building at the Bourbon County Fair, is air conditioned and features local organizations/businesses. Submitted photo.

 

The Merchant’s Building at the Bourbon County Fair is open this evening and is AIR CONDITIONED.

“Always, in years past, we have tried to get local cottage industry vendors,” Leanne Leatherman, coordinator of the vendors, said.

This year is no exception with the additions of some local organizations.

This year 9 Acre Farms will be dispensing literature on homesteading, Uppa Creek Ranch-honey, Circle P Ranch-jewelry, Buckin A Ranch-home decor, MM Creations-spices, and Carolyn Crystal-jewelry.

The Merchant Building is on the north side of the fairgrounds, near the restrooms. Submitted photo.

In addition, the Bourbon County Conservation Office  and the Museum of Creativity will have activities for the kids.

Joining these, will be Miller Farm and Seed, T-Mobile, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Fort Scott Community College, Bourbon County Democrats and Bourbon County Republicans, who will all have booths.

KOMB, the local radio station will be broadcasting live from the building, with interviews of local fair participants.

The  building is open from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21.

In addition, the rest of the fair includes animals, produce, crafts, and other departments for both 4-H youth and community members.

For the latest info, see the Bourbon County Fair Facebook page at

https://www.facebook.com/bourboncountyfair

 

 

Bourbon County, Fair

Bourbon County Fair Begins With a Couple of New Offerings

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Kort Stock looks at the chickens in the poultry section of the Bourbon County Fair on Monday evening.

The Bourbon County Fair runs until July 22 at the fairgrounds on South Horton Street in Fort Scott.

The 4-H Building was quiet on Monday evening, but entries had been judged and many young people went home with a ribbon for their entries in a variety of departments.

Meanwhile, animals were being weighed in the Show Pavilion on the fairgrounds.

Carson Wunderly and her dad, Fred, line up a cow to be weighed on the first night of the Bourbon County Fair.

The community is encouraged to come to see the results of the work that 4-H Club youth have completed for the year.

“I know it’s going to be warm, but I hope everyone comes out to support the kids,” Mark Crystal, vice president of the Bourbon County Fair Board, said. “There are a lot of nice looking animals, and they have put a lot of work into getting the animals ready for judging.”

In addition to animals, produce, crafts, and other departments can be viewed for both 4-H youth and community members.

Temperatures are forecast to be over 100 degrees for the next week.

“It wouldn’t be the Bourbon County Fair if is wasn’t the hottest days of the year,” he said.

Rachel Martin, who has two daughters in 4-H, Juley and Katie, puts up a fan in the cattle area at the Bourbon County Fair.

Animal owners keep fans on them and provide water to keep the animals from overheating.

New this year is the Chicken Mary’s Dinner that will be served by the Fort Scott Future Farmers of America Organization.

“It’s $9 for a chicken dinner on Thursday night, July 21, at the Huebenet Pavilion,” he said. Chicken Mary’s is located in Yale, near Pittsburg and is well known for its’ chicken meals.

Also new this year is a circus for the community on Thursday, which will be set up in the grandstand arena, he said.

The King Ryder Circus will be from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and includes jugglers, daredevils on motorcycles and a clown, according their information on Facebook. Cost is $5 to $15.

“They called and wanted to know if they could come,” Crystal said.

The fair schedule:

 

The Barnstormer 4-H Club won overall grand champion in table display.
Dakota Foulk won the 4-H Woodworking Top Exhibit and also the Woodworking Overall Champion.
Macie Hueston won 4-H grand champion in flower arrangements.

 

Rachel Martin, who has two daughters in 4-H, Juley and Katie, puts up a fan in the cattle area at the Bourbon County Fair.
Lexi Marchiano won overall champion and 4-H Photography Top Exhibit With 8 or More Years in the Project.
Davina Foster won overall champion with her health and wellness exhibit.
Hailey Shadden won 4-H Misc. Overall Champion Reading Notebook.
Kristy Beene won 4-H Misc. Overall Champion Club Officers Notebook.
Gwen Fry won 4-H Fiber Arts Overall Champion.
Macie Hueston won Overall Champion Junior Age 7-9 in Constructed Clothing and Textiles.
Gwen Fry won Clothing Construction Senior Overall Champion.
Makiah Woods won Constructed Clothing and Textiles Over All Champion, Intermediate Age 10-13.
Alexa Fuhrman won 4-H Visual Arts Overalll Champion, Senior.
Davina Foster won Overall Champion in Energy Management.
McKinley Sutton won the 4-H Visual Arts Over All Champion Intermediate Age 10-13.
Davina Foster won 4-H Home Environment Over All Champion.
Fort Scott, Schools

Winfield Scott Assistant Principal: Krystle Mayginnes

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Krystle Mayginnes and her family. Submitted photo.

This is part of a series profiling new educators in Bourbon County schools.

Krystle Mayginnes, 35, is the new Winfield Scott Elementary School Assistant Principal.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in English Secondary Education from Kansas Wesleyan University, a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Emporia State University,  and currently is  in her second year as a Educational Leadership Doctoral student at Baker University.
Mayginnes has taught 11 years of  secondary language arts.
She and her husband, James have an 11-year-old daughter, Klaire and a 2-year-old son, Jimmy.  Salina is where she grew up.
Mayginnes has a variety of interests when not in school.
“I love to volunteer at the library and animal shelter,” she said.  “As a family, we enjoy being outdoors including fishing, camping.  My husband and I love to attend Bluegrass Festivals whenever we are able.  Personally, I love to read and enjoy talking about and collecting books.”
Why did you become an educator?
“I have always had a love of school.  My mom always talks about how when I was little I used to play school with my siblings, and I was always the teacher.  I went into leadership because I think that teaching is the most noble profession, and I want to be a part of helping teachers become the best that they can be while also helping students.”
Did someone inspire you?
“I have always been inspired by the teachers/professors that I have learned from throughout my educational experience including my teacher colleagues who have helped me become a better teacher and a better leader.”
What is the best thing about being an educator?
“The best thing about being an educator is that I get to hang out with kids all day.  Our youth are such a precious commodity, and I get to be a part of helping them discover who they are, and who they want to become.”
What is a challenge?
“I think the most challenging thing about being an educator is that there are lots of things that we cannot control in the world.  We have students who are coming from all different backgrounds and experiences, and we have to teach them all.”
Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Minutes of July 5

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Minutes are unapproved until the 7/19/2022 meeting.

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

         Minutes of July 5th, 2022                           Regular Meeting #13

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held July 5th, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

 

Commissioners J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, S. Walker, and M. Wells were present with Mayor K. Harrington.

 

INVOCATION: City Commissioner, Tim Van Hoecke, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Travis Shelton, Lisa Lewis, Gregg Motley, Thomas Russell, Kevin Allen, Nancy Maze, Rob Harrington, Delores Covey, Shana Miller, Tobyn Schubert, Melissa Goff, Marianne Crane, Lavetta Simmons, Billy Duren, Dakota Crumby, Don George, Kim Boham, Tanya Miller, Tayton Majors, Frank Schubert, Ronda Hassig, Angie Kemmerer, Dona Spencer, Harry Spencer, Sarah Maike, Jason Dickman, Doug Guns, Jerry Morgan, Julie Saker, Sandy Gibbs, Billy Willett, Michael Hoyt, Frankie Miller, and Michael Mix.

 

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:  None

 

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA:  None

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 21st, 2022.

 

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1315-A totaling $405,044.03.

 

  1. Request to Pay – Insituform – CIPP Sanitary Lining Project – $7,246.69

 

  1. Request to Pay – Susan Bancroft – Financial services – $446.88

 

  1. Wells moved to approve the Consent Agenda. S. Walker seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

 

Public Comment:

(Sign up required.  Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to  5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

 

Nancy Maze – Nancy Maze, Chairperson, Lake Advisory Committee, informed the Commission that it was a busy and safe weekend at Lake Fort Scott. There were lots of boats on the water and lots of enjoyment.  She stated that the Lake Advisory Board is meeting this Saturday, July 9th, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. and they will address the policies and procedures for the sale of lake lots as well as the deed restrictions that were approved by the City Commission.  She invited them to attend the meeting if they can.

 

Delores Covey – Ms. Covey said that she wished to speak in support of the ex-Animal Control Officer.  She doesn’t feel like anyone knows what the community lost.  She was very caring and did what was best for all the animals in this community.  She was a phone call away.  She also worked with various agencies in the placement of the animals.  Her number one priority was caring for animals, and the City has lost a valuable asset.

 

Kim Boham – She stated that she wants to speak in support of the ex-Animal Control Officer.  She said that animals don’t have a voice and she was a voice for all the animals in town.  She has lived in other cities and the ex-A.C.O. was one of the best she has seen for a small town.  The City should be proud of her and it has taken a step backwards now.  She asked them to reconsider their decision, as this has affected the community as a whole.

 

Melissa Goff – Ms. Goff stated that the City has lost a great asset in the ex-Animal Control Officer.  She has lived here 21 years and never met an Animal Control Officer like her.  She mentioned that there is only one female patrol officer and that there had not been one since 2009. She stated that this position has now been filled with a male now.   She urged them to reconsider their decision.

 

Tobyn Schubert – Ms. Schubert informed the Commission that there is a loss in this community due to the ex-Animal Control Officer’s termination.  She went out of her way to do fundraisers for the shelter.  She showed several pictures of a dog that had been picked up by the ex-Animal Control Officer, and then bathed and cleaned up and loved on, and then pictures of how the dog looks now.  She impacted many animals lives and adopted them out.

 

Marianne Crane – Ms. Crane said that she is a huge dog advocate and had several encounters with the ex-Animal Control Officer.  She was very caring of dogs and did so with kindness.  The dogs were safe and well taken care of.   She also had an ability to find owners for the dogs.  She believes that the City did wrong in terminating her employment.

 

Shana Miller – Ms. Miller appeared before the Commission requesting a stop sign be placed at Van Fossen and Pine Streets.  She said that there are issues with overgrown trees there too that need trimmed.

 

Chief Shelton said that he would check into this and get with Public Works also on the tree issue.

 

Mayor Harrington asked that this be placed on the July 19th, 2022 agenda for more information.

 

Angie Kemmerer – Ms. Kemmerer said that she was representing the Fort Scott Hurricane Swim Team.  They are having an swim event on July 16th, 2022 at the Fort Scott Aquatic Center.  She thanked Dave Bruner and Chasity Ware for all of their hard work at the aquatic center each year.  She stated that we have a facility to be proud of.  There will be around 200 swimmers present for this event and could possibly be up to 450 swimmers.  This is their first time hosting this four-state event.  She asked that north parking lot by the pool be closed and one way traffic on Scott Avenue from the 800 to 900 block from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. be enforced.    She will work with Dave Bruner on barricades.

 

  1. Walker moved to approve the closure of the parking lot north of the aquatic center and one way traffic on Scott Avenue from the 800 to 900 block from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 16th, 2022 to host a swim event. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

approved the closure of the parking lot north of the aquatic center and one way traffic on Scott Avenue from the 800 to 900 block from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 16th, 2022 to host a swim event.

 

Don George, Kansas Wildlife & Parks – Mr. George was present to discuss two items.  The State of Kansas is sponsoring a Great Kansas Fishing Derby.  It began on May 15 through September 15.  This is an event where fish are tagged and if one is caught that is tagged, prizes are awarded.

 

His next topic was that the State is doing a survey on who is using the lake and where are they traveling from. He also mentioned finding out what kind of fish they want to catch, and do they catch and release?  This would be a creel survey and would provide good information.

 

Sarah Maike – Ms. Maike mentioned that people in the City limits need to be respectful of people who don’t have as much as they do.  She is ashamed of people and how they act.   There are a lot of hurting people in the world, and we need to be considerate of them.

 

Rhonda Hassig – Ms. Hassig said that she moved here three years ago and loves the town and loves dogs.   She stated that it is very wrong that the ex-Animal Control Officer was terminated and that there is no voice for the animals now.

 

Old Business:

 

  1. Consideration of 623 Short Street and possible demolition – Billy Willett and Sandra Gibbs informed the Commission that they need additional time to finish repairing the house. They had until June 24th, 2022 and need more time.  She talked to a contractor about the roof and is expected to get an estimate within the next ten (10) days.

 

Discussion was held that they were first notified and the first resolution to set the public hearing was approved on March 15th, 2022, and then the public hearing was held on May 3rd, 2022.  On May 3rd, 2022, they were given until June 24th, 2022 to repair or remove the structure.

 

Mr. Willett and Ms. Gibbs both informed the Commission that they have tried to contact several contractors with no success.

 

Mayor Harrington informed the couple to appear at the next Commission meeting on July 19th, 2022 for a progress update.

 

  1. Wells gave them 14 days to provide proof of a written contract with a contractor, and have the yard cleaned up, and a date for the contract to begin. S. Walker seconded. J. Jones, S. Walker and M. Wells voted aye.  T. Van Hoecke and K. Harrington voted no.  Motion carried 3-2.

 

APPROVED TO ALLOW 14 days to provide proof of a written contract with a contractor, and have the yard cleaned up, and a date for the contract to begin FOR 623 SHORT street.

 

  1. Consideration of Corporate Golf Rate Season Membership – Doug Guns, informed the Commission that modifications have been made to this agreement.

 

Discussion was held regarding the start date for the membership and changing the golf season passes to a calendar year.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to approve the Corporate Golf Rate Season Membership. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED CORPORATE GOLF RATE SEASON MEMBERSHIP.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to approve to change the golf membership to a calendar year basis. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO CHANGE GOLF MEMBERSHIP TO A CALENDAR YEAR BASIS.

 

Appearances:

 

David Lipe – Street Closure Request – Care to Share Fundraiser – 16 N. National Avenue – August 13th, 2022 – David Lipe informed the Commission that he would like to request to shut down National between Wall and Oak and the parking lot to the east of Sharky’s on August 13th, 2022 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for a Care to Share Bike Ride/Street Dance.  They plan on having two bands, a cornhole tournament, and a silent auction.

 

  1. Walker moved to approve the street closure request. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO SHUT DOWN NATIONAL BETWEEN WALL AND OAK AND THE PARKING LOT TO THE EAST OF SHARKY’S ON AUGUST 13TH, 2022 FROM 1:00 P.M. TO 5:00 P.M. FOR THE CARE TO SHARE BIKE RIDE/STREET DANCE.

 

Aaron Foxworth – Tacos & Tailgates Event – September 3rd, 2022 – Temporary Street Closure Request – Mr. Foxworth was not present and had not filled out the request form yet.  City Clerk will send it to him again.

 

Public Hearings:  None

 

New Business:

 

  1. Consideration of Land Bank Board position and approval of budget – Gregg Motley, Land Bank Board Member, appeared before the Commission to request a full-time person be hired for the overseeing of the Land Bank program. By fall, there could be 80 properties in the Land Bank, and this will need to be a full-time position.

 

Discussion was held concerning if the County would split this amount with the City.

 

Mr. Motley said that he does not have a commitment from Bourbon County yet.

 

  1. Jones said that he believes the salary for this position is excessive since it is over $25.00 an hour.

 

Mr. Motley said that they did a salary survey and came up with this amount.

 

  1. Harrington asked the City Manager what fund the salary will come from?

 

City Manager said that it is not a budgeted position.  The funds could come from economic development from the sale of the First Source building, or A.R.P.A. funds.

 

  1. Wells said that we need to be able to fund it. He questioned the demolition fund and what was remaining in it. He also questioned if it could be a 32 hour/week position.

 

  1. Jones said that there is about $20,000 to $25,000 left in the demo fund.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to move forward with the approval of the Land Bank position and to use funds from the sale of the First Source building to fund this position. This is all contingent upon Bourbon County funding half of this position and the total cost. S. Walker seconded. T. Van Hoecke, S. Walker, and K. Harrington voted aye.  J. Jones and M. Wells voted no.  Motion carried 3-2.

 

Approved to move forward with the approval of the Land Bank position and to use funds from the sale of the First Source building to fund this position This is all contingent upon Bourbon County funding half of this position and the total cost.  

 

 

(The budget was not approved at this time.)

 

  1. Consideration of engineering firm for Lake Fort Scott valve – Michael Mix, Water Utilities Director, informed the Commission that RFP’s were taken for the lake valve at Fort Scott Lake engineering. Michael said that there were two RFP’s received:  Midwest Engineering Group, LLC and Allgeier, Martin & Associates, Inc.  He said that he is familiar with both firms, and they would both do a great job.    His recommendation is for Midwest Engineering Group, L.L.C.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to approve the engineering firm of Midwest Engineering Group, L.L.C. for the Lake Fort Scott valve. M. Wells seconded.  All voted aye.

 

approveD the engineering firm of Midwest Engineering Group, L.L.C.  for the Lake Fort Scott valve. 

 

  1. Consideration of publication of Budget Hearing Amendment for July 19th, 2022 – City Manager said that this needs removed from the agenda as it is not needed.

 

  1. Consideration of Charter Ordinance No. 34 relating to Transient Guest Tax and a Tourism Advisory Board – City Manager said that this is the new Charter Ordinance for the tourism board and transient guest tax. This ordinance establishes a convention and tourism committee.

 

  1. Van Hoecke questioned why we did away with the Tourism Board about 6 to 8 weeks ago and now it is being brought back again. He asked who would manage that board.

 

Rob Harrington said that it doesn’t affect him either way.  He feels it is more red tape.  It affects Jackson Tough.  He said that we will continue to work no matter whether there is a board or not.

 

City Manager said that it is however they want to set it up – whether under Bourbon County R.E.D.I. or under the City.

 

City Attorney said that he thought this was their thought process to create this ordinance.

 

  1. Wells said that he thought this would clean up the other ordinance.

 

  1. Wells moved to approve Charter Ordinance No. 34. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED CHARTER ORDINANCE NO. 34 REPEALING CHARTER ORDINANCE NO. 19 AND CHARTER ORDINANCE NO. 25 OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, AND EXEMPTING THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT FROM THE PROVISIONS OF K.S.A. 12-1697 RELATING TO THE LEVY OF A TRANSIENT GUEST TAX WITHIN THE CITY, AND THE EXEMPTION OF K.S.A. 12-1695 RELATING TO THE ESTABLISHING OF A CONVENTION AND TOURISM COMMITTEE AND PROVIDING SUBSTITUTE AND ADDITIONAL PROVISIOONS ON THE SAME SUBJECTS.

 

  1. Consideration of Demolition Bids: 601 W. 2nd – 604 W. 5th – 722 S. Heylman – City Manager said that bids were taken for 601 W. 2nd Street, 604 W. 5th Street, and 722 S. Heylman.  There is a property owner present for 722 S. Heylman.

 

City Clerk said that they can approve the first two demolitions and then take up the 722 S. Heylman demo.

 

City Clerk said that there were four bids received on 601 W. 2nd Street:  Dave’s Demolition – $2,800.00; Skitch’s Inc. – $2,945.00; J. Fellers Contracting, Inc. – $8,270.00; and Justin Best Construction LLC – $18,500.00.

 

City Clerk said that there were four bids received on 604 W. 5th Street:  Dave’s Demolition – $1,800.00; Skitch’s Inc. – $2,944.00; J. Fellers Contracting, Inc. – $5,190.00; and Justin Best Construction LLC – $17,500.00.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to approve Dave’s Demolition in the amount of $2,800.00 for 601 W. 2nd Street, and $1,800.00 for 604 W. 5th Street. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

722 S. Heylman Street – Billy Duren stated that he was the owner of this property and would like to demolish the structure himself and asked for time to do this.

 

  1. Jones moved to have significant progress made in 30 days and have it completely done in 60 days with an update from Codes on this in 14 days at the next meeting. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ALLOW BILLY DUREN TO HAVE SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS MADE IN 30 DAYS AND HAVE THE STRUCTURE COMPLETELY REMOVED IN 60 DAYS WITH AN UPDATE IN 14 DAYS BY THE CODES DEPARTMENT AT THE JULY 19TH, 2022 MEETING FOR THE PROPERTY AT 722 S. HEYLMAN.

 

Reports and Comments:

 

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

 

  1. City Manager Comments: City Manager gave the Commission an update on his discussion with K.D.H.E. and issues that the City needs to correct. The first item is A.D.M. and the wastewater the City receives from them.  D.M. has reduced their frequency of loads by 30%.    A.D.M. is working on a lagoon to be a healthy aerobic system.  A.D.M. is working with the Missouri Department of Health on a long-term management on a healthy lagoon system, up to and including the possibility of a redundant lagoon.

 

The City is improving its lagoon system with better aeration and testing of A.D.M. waste to determine the best treatment measures.

 

Also, the Davis Lift Station bypass into Buck Run Creek is to be eliminated or reduced at the very least.

 

Kansas Department of Agriculture – City Manager said that he has been in contact with Frank Young of AG Engineering regarding the dam at Lake Fort Scott.  City Manager updated the Commission that there are currently bids out for the buildup for the top of the Lake Fort Scott dam per permit requirements.  Also, No Parking in the overflow spillway is a violation of the City’s permit – Install bollard posts with a cable across emergency spillway with a sign pointing to the parking lot up the hill.  The last item is the lake valve restoration as an auxiliary source of water for the City of Fort Scott.

 

Executive Session:

 

  1. Jones moved to recess into Executive Session for the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4) until 8:30 p.m. This will include City Commissioners, City Manager, and City Attorney. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to come out of Executive Session at 8:30 p.m. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

  1. Director Comments:  Jerry Morgan – Jerry gave the Commission a packet of a wish list of equipment the Street Departments needs.  This list included the following:  Cat 963, two work trucks, pad foot compactor, two dump trucks/plow trucks, compact track loader, and excavator. The combined total amount is approximately $560,000.00.  He asked them to consider this list when doing their 2023 budget.
  2. Engineering Firm Comments:

 

  1. Proposal for Street and Sidewalk Improvement on South Horton Street from West 18th to West 6th Street and West 6th Street from South Horton Street to South National – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, Inc. informed the Commission that this proposal is the agreement for the Horton Street project. This is the design of the sidewalk and street improvements for South Horton Street and West 6th Street. The amount for this project is $136,500.00.

 

  1. Jones moved to approve the Earles Engineering Inc. proposal in the amount of $136,500.00 for the Horton Street project. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED EARLES ENGINEERING PROPOSAL FOR THE STREET AND SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENT ON SOUTH HORTON STREET FROM WEST 18TH TO WEST 6TH STREET AND WEST 6TH STREET FROM SOUTH HORTON TO SOUTH NATIONAL AVENUE.

 

  1. Consideration of Addendum No. 1 – Wastewater Design Contract – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, Inc. said that this Addendum No. 1 is an addendum to the original contract. This addendum allows for the aeration system to replace the existing system. The addendum amount is $167,500.00.

 

  1. Wells moved to approve Addendum No. 1 for the Wastewater Design Contract in the amount of $167,500.00. S. Walker seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ADDENDUM NO. 1 FOR THE WASTEWATER DESIGN CONTRACT WITH EARLES ENGINEERING, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $167,500.00.

 

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

 

  1. Van Hoecke – Tim thanked the Fort Scott High All School Reunion committee for their organization of the all school reunion. He said it was great to see so many people in town.

 

Tim also wished all had a great 4th of July.

 

  1. Wells – Matthew informed the Commission that he had gotten a message that Martha Scott had passed away. He said that she was a huge supporter of Fort Scott and that we need to remember her husband and daughter and their family in prayer at this time.

 

  1. Walker – Shane asked about 2nd Street and the water issue.

 

City Manager said that the plan is to start this project next week and make a utility cut.  Brad has been in contact with Bill Lemke and his crew on this project.

 

  1. Jones – Josh asked for an update on National Avenue and when it will be redone.

 

Jason Dickman said that he left a message with Heckert and is waiting on a call back.  He knows they contract out their milling and he may just contact the milling company.

 

  1. Harrington – Katie reminded the public of the upcoming Gordon Parks event to be held on Friday, July 8th, 2022 at the Liberty Theater. She also reminded them up of the upcoming rodeo July 8th and 9th.

 

  1. City Attorney Comments – None

 

Adjournment:

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:01 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:01 P.M.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Diane K. Clay, MMC

City Clerk