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Government, Kansas

Commerce Announces New Opportunity for Transformative Art in Public Spaces

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the launch of an innovative program to support community-driven projects that enhance the quality and functionality of public spaces in Kansas communities. The Transformative Art for Public Spaces (TAPS) grant will have a total of $150,000 available to support the creative transformation of often overlooked infrastructure into vibrant and engaging elements for the community.

“The TAPS grant program is about more than making every-day objects look more presentable,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Having attractive public gathering spots encourages more people to utilize them, stay for longer periods of time, and spend more money at local establishments. These small investments will have long-term economic benefits for communities across the state.”

The TAPS grant offers awardees amounts of $1,500 to $2,000 per project to cover materials, supplies and artist compensation. Interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with local artists, students and community members by offering them opportunities to contribute creatively to their communities. A maximum of five projects are allowed per applicant.

Approved and funded fixtures and overlooked structures include:

  • Electrical boxes
  • Fire hydrants
  • Trashcans
  • Water utilities
  • Other infrastructures

Applications will be accepted through December 5 or until funds are depleted. Priority will be given to projects in communities that have not received funding from Commerce during the previous three years.

“The TAPS Grant is an exciting way to celebrate community identity while offering artists and residents the chance to make a lasting impact on their surroundings,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “We can’t wait to see how these projects inspire collaboration and connections among our Kansas communities and residents.”

Organizations may submit proposals for multiple projects within a single application, provided each project meets the program’s guidelines. Projects that will not be supported include:

  • Signs promoting businesses
  • Murals or large-scale wall installations
  • Live performances or temporary art
  • Large undertakings requiring structural modifications

Applicants must work with their local municipality or property owner and be permitted to create art on the proposed structure. Documentation of this permission will be required for the application.

For more details, application forms, project examples and resources, click here.

Questions about the TAPS Grant can be directed to Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

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

About the Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

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Obituary

Obituary of Donny Roberts

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Donny Ray Roberts, a beloved family man and respected business owner from Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 27, 2025, at the age of 46.

 

Donny was the proud owner of Roberts Outdoor Works, a family business that was his greatest professional achievement. Beyond his work, he was known for his passion for rock crawling and show cars, with one of his most cherished memories being his top 10 placement at the Sparks of the Ozarks event.

 

A true family man, Donny was renowned for being the life of the party and a dependable source of support for those around him. His vibrant personality and generous spirit touched the lives of many.

 

Donny will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire Fort Scott community. His passion for life, love for his family, and commitment to his business will be remembered by all who knew him.

 

Survivors include his wife Jennifer (Jae) Miller-Roberts of Fort Scott, KS; his father Ronnie Roberts of Fort Scott, KS; brother Ronnie Roberts (Jennifer) of Fort Scott, KS; children Austin Robichaux (Theresa) of Bar Hill, UK, Corryn Cortner (Wyatt) of Emporia, KS, Lillian Greer of Nevada, MO, Adalay Connet of Emporia, KS, Jaeci Roberts (Arden) of Harrison, OH, Morgan Roberts of Columbus, OH, Kyleigh Roberts of Ross, OH, Cody Roberts of Fort Scott, KS, and Bella Roberts of Fort Scott, KS.  Also surviving are nieces and nephews Damian Roberts (Katiria) of Louisburg, KS, Jerica Roberts (John) of Fort Scott, KS, and Jasime and Mackie Roberts of Fort Scott, KS.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda (Large) Roberts.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, April 6th at 12:00 pm at Gunn Park Shelter House #1, 1010 Park Ave., Fort Scott, KS 66701.

Lunch and drinks will be provided.

Memorials are suggested to the Robert’s Children Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

 

Government, Kansas

March Total Tax Collections at $636.9 Million; 2.1% Below Estimate

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TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends March 2025 with total tax collections at $636.9 million. That is $13.6 million, or 2.1%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 16.2% from March 2024.

Individual income tax collections were $261.6 million. That is $3.4 million, or 1.3% below the estimate. Individual income tax collections were down 28.3% from March 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $50.1 million. That is $26.9 million, or 34.9% below the estimate, and down 35.0% from March 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $246.8 million, which is $8.2 million, or 3.2% below the estimate and down $14.5 million, or 5.5%, from March 2024.

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group (CRE), comprised of the Department of Revenue, Division of Budget, Legislative Research Department, and economists from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University, will meet on April 17, 2025, to review the fall estimate and make any revisions it may consider necessary.

Click here to view the March 2025 revenue numbers.

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Area News

Kansas Gas Service Kicks Off Safe Digging Month with Tree Giveaway

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Kansans Encouraged to Contact 811 Before Digging

 

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – April 01, 2025 – April typically marks the start of the spring planting season, home improvement projects and large-scale excavations. It’s also National Safe Digging Month, and Kansas Gas Service is reminding residents to contact 811 before any digging project – big or small. To celebrate those who commit to safe digging practices by taking the pledge, participants will have a chance to win a free tree.

 

“Safe digging is essential to protecting our communities, preventing service disruptions and keeping everyone safe,” says Trey Pool, manager of public awareness and damage prevention for Kansas Gas Service. “Through the Safe Digging Pledge and tree giveaway, we’re reminding Kansans that simply contacting 811 before digging can prevent costly damages and hazards. This initiative not only promotes responsible digging but also supports a greener, healthier environment for all.”

 

Dig Hero Tree Giveaway

Kansas residents can prioritize safety by taking the 2025 Safe Digging Pledge at beadigherokansas.com, and recognizing the importance of contacting 811 before their shovels or excavating equipment hits the ground – regardless of the size of the digging project. After taking the pledge, residents are automatically entered into a random drawing to win a free tree in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees in the U.S. Winners of the tree giveaway will have the opportunity to pick the type of tree they wish to plant and receive information about energy savings gained from their tree.

 

Why Contact 811?

With any digging project, whether planting a tree or repairing a sprinkler system, there is a high probability of underground facilities below the site, such as natural gas pipelines, electric cables or water lines. The best way to avoid damage and injury or loss of service is to contact 811 at least two full working days before digging starts to learn the approximate location of buried facilities in your area. Contacting 811 is free, and it’s the law.

 

By calling 811 or submitting a request at kansas811.com, professional locators will mark the underground facilities within the designated project area with flags and/or paint at no cost to the home or business owner. Once the project is marked, be aware of the tolerance zone: a minimum of 24 inches. Hand or soft dig techniques should be used within this area.

 

Learn more about safe digging and take the pledge at beadigherokansas.com for your chance to win a free tree.

 

Digital Toolkit:

Access b-roll, Safe Digging Month flyer and graphics here.

 

About Kansas Gas Service

 

Kansas Gas Service provides a reliable and affordable energy choice to more than 648,000 customers in Kansas and is the largest natural gas distributor in the state in terms of customers. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas Gas Service is a division of ONE Gas, Inc. (NYSE: OGS), a 100-percent regulated natural gas utility that trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “OGS.” ONE Gas is included in the S&P MidCap 400 Index and is one of the largest natural gas utilities in the United States. For more information and the latest news about Kansas Gas Service, visit kansasgasservice.com and follow its social channels: @KansasGas, Facebook, Nextdoor, LinkedIn and YouTube.

 

About the Arbor Day Foundation

The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporters united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees. For more than 50 years, they’ve answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners. And this is only the beginning.

The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at arborday.org.

 

 

 

 

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Fort Scott, Schools

News Release From the USD234 Board Meeting on March 31

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Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                        

 
 

Superintendent                                                                                                                                            

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, March 31, 2025

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025, for a special meeting at 424 S Main.

 

President David Stewart opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda.

 

The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.

 

President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED

March 31, 2025

 

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

 

Anderson, Mikiah – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Preschool

Blackburn, Brendon – Resignation – 8th Science Teacher – Middle School

Blackburn, Brendon – Supplemental Resignation – Head Football Coach – Middle School

Blackburn, Brendon – Supplemental Resignation – Assistant Wrestling Coach – Middle School

Blackburn, Brendon – Supplemental Resignation – Assistant Wrestling Coach – High School

Blackburn, Brendon – Supplemental Resignation – Summer Conditioning Coordinator

 

EMPLOYMENT:

 

Certified Recommendations

 

Hendrickson, Elanor – Special Education Teacher – High School

Karleskint, Amanda – 2nd Grade Teacher – Winfield Scott

Madison, Kendall – Special Education Teacher – Winfield Scott

Simas, Kiel – Physical Education Teacher & Weights – Middle School

Staton, Shanna – Special Education Teacher – Winfield Scott

 

Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:

 

Cavin, Brent – Assistant Football Coach – Middle School

 

 

Area News, Youth

Grants To Support At-Risk Youth Applications Start Today

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CFSEK Launches 2025 Elm Acres Foundation Grant Cycle

Since 2017, the Elm Acres Foundation has hosted an annual grant cycle through the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) to help fund projects and services supporting at-risk youth in Southeast Kansas. Since inception, the Elm Acres grant cycle has awarded over $160,000 to vital service projects benefiting area children.

“CFSEK is proud to continue the legacy of the Elm Acres Foundation, ensuring that at-risk youth in Southeast Kansas have access to essential services and programs that foster their growth and development,” said CFSEK Executive Director Devin Gorman.

Applications for the Elm Acres Foundation grant cycle are available online via CFSEK’s portal until midnight on April 30th. Questions regarding the grant applications should be directed to CFSEK Program Coordinator Kara Mishmash at SoutheastKansas.org/Contact/Kara.

Applications are available at SoutheastKansas.org/Grant-App, and more information about the fund is available at SoutheastKansas.org/EA.

Area News

Pavement marking underway on U.S. 69 at Pittsburg

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The Kansas Department of Transportation has started a pavement marking project on U.S. 69 at Pittsburg. The project area begins south of U.S. 400/K-171 and continues north for 9.8 miles to U.S. 160.

 

A mobile operation is placing the pavement markings on the highway, with no significant effects expected to traffic. Flaggers will guide traffic through the work zone at intersections and the railroad crossing. Weather permitting, the work should be completed by the end of May.

 

KDOT awarded the $495,614 construction contract to Cillessen and Sons Inc., of Kechi. Check KDOT’s updated traveler information website, www.kandrive.gov, for more highway conditions and construction details. Persons with questions may contact Bukola Oni at KDOT-Pittsburg, (620) 308-7617, or Priscilla Petersen at (620) 902-6433.

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Downtown Meet and Greet April 1 at the Kitchen Collective

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Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greet scheduled for April 1st!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces a Downtown Meet & Greet will be held Tuesday, April 1st at The Parlor by Eighteen65, adjacent to The Kitchen Collective + Collaborative,

10 S. Main St., from 8:30 to 9:30am.

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

Contact the Chamber at 620-223-3566 with any questions.

Click HERE for the Facebook Event Page.
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 
Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
March 28, 2025
The 2025 regular session ended.  Veto session starts April 10th and is scheduled to last two days.  Below are a few of the items we worked on last week.  All legislation can be found at www.KSLegislature.gov.
Property Taxes the statewide 1.5 mill levy used for building maintenance will be eliminated if CCR 35 becomes law.  The Senate passed the tax cut in January.  In March, the House gutted the bill and put language in that would repeal transparency (often referred to as Revenue Neutral that requires local governments to vote on property tax increases) and created an option to petition counties and cities to restrict property tax increases over inflation plus new development plus some bonding, but the Senate saw too many issues so asked for a conference committee.  The House agreed in conference to put the Senate version back, eliminating the statewide 1.5 mill levy tax cut.  Some legislators complained because it is a minimal cut, but a cut is a step in the right direction.  Keep in mind, it is a cut that will save you more each year, because you will no longer pay 1.5 mill on your increased valuations.  All property taxes will now be to fund local governments, including schools, not state government.
The Senate also passed constitutional amendments that would have gone on a ballot for voters to decide if they want to limit property taxable valuation increases.  The county valuation of your property could still increase but the taxable value of your property would be limited in growth each year.  The Senate passed it three times by 2/3 majority (in SCR 1603 and HCR 5011, with a 3% limit on a bipartisan vote; and CCR 5011 with a 4% limit).  It doesn’t make sense the Senate passed each one with 2/3 majority, and the House rejected the opportunity for voters to decide.  The House passed a more clunky version to limit taxable value increases using an average of several years that could still result in double digit increases and would have taken longer to implement because the number of years would have to be defined in statute.  The House could still move on SCR 1603 in veto session, but the odds are slim because lobbyists for the Kansas Realtors and others are putting out inaccurate information.  SCR 1603 would allow voters to decide if they want a taxable valuation limit of 3%.  I say, let the voters decide.
Foreign Adversaries would not be able to own property within 100 miles of a military facility in Kansas and drones or parts for drones made by foreign adversaries could no longer be purchased by government entities, including law enforcement, if CCR 9 becomes law.  This would restrict foreign governments from spying.  The Senate sent it to the Governor’s desk on a vote of 39 to 1.  I voted Yes.
Right To Try experimental drugs if you are out of health options passed the Senate unanimously and was sent to the Governor.
Contingent Fee Contracts by political subdivisions would have a higher level of scrutiny if HB 2228 becomes law.  That sounds good, but the bill had some suspicious dates like back dating to July 1, 2024, and sunsetting in 2029.  Only 9 other Senators had concerns, so the bill passed with 28 yes votes.  I voted No.
Campaign Contribution Limits to candidates would double if the Governor signs CCR 2054 into law.  It would also increase contribution limits to political parties.  We do not need increased contribution limits.  It passed 26 to 14.  I voted No.
Kansas Court of Appeals appointment of Lori Bolton Fleming from southeast Kansas, passed the Senate unanimously, which finalized her appointment.
Kansas Supreme Court Justices could be elected if voters decide to amend the Kansas Constitution on the August 2026 ballot.  SCR 1611 passed both chambers with 2/3 majority.  I voted Yes.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Two Bills, Allows Three to Become Law Without Signatur

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has vetoed Senate Bill 5 and Senate Bill 14. Governor Kelly also allowed House Bill 2106, House Bill 2027, and Senate Bill 105 to become law without her signature.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 5:

“Restricting federal funds for elections and election-related activities without legislative approval is not just unnecessary micromanagement; it undermines our ability to conduct secure and efficient elections.

“Some legislators have voiced concerns about voter fraud and foreign interference, but state and local election officials would be much more capable of addressing these threats if they received necessary funding from Congress. It doesn’t make sense to turn down these resources that make our local elections in Kansas safe, secure, and accurate.

“Given that the Legislature only convenes for three months each year, how can we expect them to approve funding when they are not available year-round? Instead of obstructing our electoral process, lawmakers should concentrate on the real issues impacting Kansans, rather than complicating the management of election funds.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 5.”

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 14:

“Kansas entered statehood on January 29, 1861. Since that time, every single Legislature has managed to pass a budget that became law. In fact, technically speaking, it’s the Legislature’s only constitutionally required job.

“If this Legislature cannot do what every previous legislature has been able to do since our founding—through periods of war, famine, pandemic, recession, the Dust Bowl, and even the Great Depression—then they will have to do it over my veto because I will not sanction it, nor will the people of Kansas.

“This bill is the latest attempt at legislative overreach into the executive branch and is really nothing more than an invitation to government dysfunction—just like we see in Washington, D.C. Is that what we want for Kansas?

“I am confident that this Legislature will be able to continue the tradition of completing their constitutionally mandated duties, within the constitutionally mandated timeframe just as every one of their predecessors has been able to do.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 14.”

The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding allowing House Bill 2106 to become law without her signature:

“I support stopping foreign influence in our elections so that Kansans can decide what’s best for Kansas. Federal law already prohibits foreign nationals from contributing to federal, state, or local elections. If the Legislature had crafted something similar for Kansas, I would have signed it. But this bill goes too far. I cannot sign a bill that takes away the ability of Kansans and Kansas businesses to support elections if they accept money from overseas for any purpose, not just those related to elections.

“Forcing Kansans to choose between accepting financial support for any reason or surrendering their voice in the political process is wrong. This bill potentially exposes our state to litigation for its limitations on speech and association, possibly violating First Amendment protections in the U.S. Constitution as well as possible equal protection violations of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution on account of disparate treatment of the people and businesses in Kansas based on whether they have international operations or support.”

The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding allowing House Bill 2027 to become law without her signature:

“The Legislature passed the so-called HOPE Act in 2015, severely restricting Kansans’ ability to access social service programs like SNAP food assistance, TANF cash assistance, and childcare assistance.

“The HOPE Act was wrong then, and it remains wrong now. Legislators are only trying to put lipstick on a pig, and I refuse to associate myself with the HOPE Act. Now, more than ever, the Legislature should look for ways to support working Kansas families rather than further shredding the safety net that gives Kansans a bridge back to self-sufficiency.”

The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding allowing Senate Bill 105 to become law without her signature:

“While I understand the Legislature’s desire to have a say in the appointment process for filling vacancies for United States senator, state treasurer and insurance commissioner, this bill puts forth a partisan power grab by the Legislature and includes an overly bureaucratic process ripe for undue influence by special interests.

“Had the Legislature passed a simpler method for modifying the appointment process for these offices, I would’ve signed it into law. However, given my concerns about the messy process this bill creates, the bill will become law without my signature.”

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Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Increasing Dollars for Conservation Districts

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed Senate Bill 36, which increases the cap on the amount of money conservation districts can receive from the division of conservation and increases the amount of matching dollars the state can provide conservation districts.

“Addressing our state’s diverse water quality and quantity challenges will require on-the-ground action from local partners who know their communities the best,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This bill strengthens local capacity by providing our state’s conservation districts the resources they need to effectively implement state and federal natural resource programs.”

Under Senate Bill 36, the matching basis for state moneys disbursed to conservation districts will be based on amounts allocated by the board of county commissioners for such districts.

“Kansas Conservation Districts have been a vital part of responsibly maintaining our water supply and protecting against erosion for over eight decades,” said Representative for House District 116 Kyle Hoffman. “By ensuring these districts have the resources necessary to continue their important work, we are taking critical steps toward the future of agriculture in Kansas.”

This bill doubles the amount of money conservation districts can receive from $25,000 to $50,000 and makes matching dollars a $2 division contribution for every $1 from counties to match the funds allocated by county commissioners.

“Doubling the matching funds available could allow the district to hire a second staff member to focus on education and outreach,” said Senator for District 2 Marci Francisco. “Helping our farmers understand the advantages of conservation practices such as cover crops could in turn have a significant impact on both soil health and crop quality.”

In addition to Senate Bill 36, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

Senate Bill 6: Reaffirms current law prohibiting the use of ranked-choice voting methods for conducting elections.

Senate Bill 58: Modifies the requirements and allocations for multi-year flex accounts, providing for additional flexibilities to maximize the efficiency of water usage and conservation.

House Bill 2254: Ensures Kansas milk producers are financially protected by requiring milk processors to hold payments in trust for producers until full payment is received.

House Bill 2085: Extends the expiration of permits issued under the water pollution control permit system from five to 10 years.

House Bill 2166: Continues existing exceptions to the disclosure of public records under the open records act pertaining to sensitive personal medical information.

House Bill 2182: Clarifies that victims shall not be charged a fee for service of process by a sheriff’s office under the Kansas protection order acts; with the goal of ensuring that said fee does not deter victims from pursuing a protection order for their safety.

House Bill 2238: Directs legislative administrative services to prepare all committee minutes.

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