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Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Minutes of May 16

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

Minutes of May 16, 2023                                                                         Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held May 16, 2023 at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners T. Van Hoecke, K. Harrington, E. Woellhof were present with Mayor M. Wells.

 

FLAG SALUTE AND INVOCATION:  M. Wells, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

PROCLAMATIONS:   M. Wells made a Proclamation from the City of Fort Scott for National Nursing Home Week (May 14-20, 2023).  He stated that he also appeared at Medicalodges and presented the same Proclamation and a blessing over the residents on May 15, 2023.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Police Chief Jason Pickert, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, Jackson Tough/Director of Public Relations and Tourism, Scott Flater/Director of Water Utilities, Justin Pregont, Dean Striler, Michael Clancy/RenoDry, Mark McCoy/REDI Chairman, Rob Harrington/REDI Director, Tayton Majors/REDI, Emily Diebolt/REDI, Carolyn Sinn, Kendall Schoenrock

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA:

  1. Jones moved to approve the agenda as submitted for May 16, 2023. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED AGENDA AS SUBMITTED FOR May 16, 2023.

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 2, 2023
  2. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1336-A – $799,127.78
  3. April Financials

 

  1. Jones moved to approve the Consent Agenda. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

 

Dean Striler:  Addressed the Commission regarding the progress of campground and renovation projects approved on February 28, 2022. He stated that the Commission approved the following:  Shelter House, ADA-Compliant Bathroom, Water, Sewer, Fishing Docks, Electricity, Lighting, Primitive Camping and RV Campsites. He would like to know the status of each of the items because as of date, nothing has been done.

 

  1. Matkin stated the Shelter House has been painted and cleaned up, mowing has been happening, all the docks are in place.

 

  1. Wells asked if the items other than the docks have been addressed. B. Matkin stated no.

 

  1. Striler asked for the reason behind that because it was stated over a year and a half ago that the funds were approved by resolution and signed by J. Jones, who was mayor at the time.

 

  1. Wells stated that when he was the Commission’s Representative for the Lake Advisory Board, he did bring these items to the attention of the Commission twice to approve the water line so the project could continue. He stated that he did not have the votes from the other Commissioners to move forward with those projects.

 

  1. Striler asked what is being done with those funds. He stated that he heard there was talk that the lake funds would be used for Memorial Hall improvements.

 

  1. Jones stated that currently they are sitting idle in the account, and it takes a majority of the Commission to approve moving expenditures out of that account.

 

  1. Striler asked what is being done to move forward.

 

  1. VanHoecke stated that the Commission received presentations for the campground and there was confusion about the size and cost, which slowed things down.

 

Further details about the plans were discussed.

 

  1. Striler asked what will be done with the money that is currently in that fund. He stated that certainly things can be done.

 

  1. Jones stated that he would like to see a sight plan for the primitive camping by the next meeting.

 

Further discussion was had about the preliminary plans versus what is financially possible. J. Jones directed B. Matkin to find out what items could be taken care of in the very near future minus electricity and water.

 

Further ideas were discussed on improvements that could happen to the primitive camp site and other items that need immediate attention.

 

  1. Matin also stated that the improvements were taken into Executive Session a few months back that cannot be discussed.

 

  1. Striler again asked what will happen next.

 

  1. Wells stated that B. Matkin will look at the items brought to the Commission’s attention, find some prices, and have those at the next meeting so that we can possibly move forward.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 

  1. Consideration of Approval of RenoDry Contract for Memorial Hall – Michael Clancy:

 

Discussion was had about the Commissioners speaking with references regarding the system to be installed and how it can benefit Memorial Hall in its present and future condition.

 

  1. Clancy stated he will do the work May 22nd and May 24th, 2023.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the contract for services from RenoDry from Memorial Hall in the amount of $35,000.00. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONTRACT FOR SERVICES FROM RENODRY FROM MEMORIAL HALL IN THE AMOUNT OF $35,000.00.

 

  1. Consideration of Lagoon Aeration Proposal – Phase II – J. Dickman:
  2. Dickman stated that the proposal was not ready for this meeting and that they are still refining the numbers. J. Dickman stated that he will confirm that the proposal will be ready by the June 6 meeting.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to table the Consideration of Lagoon Aeration Proposal – Phase II until the June 6, 2023, meeting. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO TABLE THE CONSIDERATION OF THE LAGOON AERATION PROPOSAL FOR PHASE II UNTIL THE JUNE 6, 2023, MEETING.

 

  1. Youth Activities Team (Y.A.T.) 1311 S. National Going To Auction, tabled from May 2, 2023, meeting:

 

  1. Jones deferred to Bob Farmer regarding the need for a motion. B. Farmer stated that he believed it to be best to have a motion on the record.

 

  1. Jones moved to allow the Y.A.T. to proceed with selling the house at 1311 S. National.

 

  1. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ALLOW THE Y.A.T. TO PROCEED WITH SELLING THE HOUSE AT 1311 S. NATIONAL.

 

  1. Consideration of Ordinance – Vacancy in Commission – Revision for 2023: Ordinance No. 3746 was drafted by B. Farmer and J. Jones and presented to the Commission as follows: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING 3290 SECTION 2.60.010 (VACANCY IN OFFICE – HOW FILLED) OF CHAPTER 2.60 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE. ORDINANCE 3290 SECTION 2.60.010 is amended as follows:
  2. In case of any vacancy in the office of mayor or commissioner, the remaining members of the board of commissioners shall, within ten days or the next regularly schedule commission meeting, after the occurrence of a vacancy, elect some suitable person, by majority vote, who shall reside inside the territorial limits of the City of Fort Scott, Kansas and shall be a qualified elector therein to fill the vacancy for the balance of the unexpired term of such office. During the calendar year 2023 there will be allowed a onetime exception to the ten-day rule and will allow vacancy to be filled by a ballot at the next general election being held in Bourbon county as which time the person to fill the unexpired term will be placed on the ballot and elected by the people. If the remaining members cannot agree upon a suitable person, then they shall call upon the City Attorney who shall cast the decisive vote for such an appointment. All remaining sections, listed as B – E of Ordinance 3290 Section 2.60.010 shall remain in effect and be unchanged.

 

Discussion was had about the current Ordinance and the potential change. Commissioners voiced concerns as to how this would be better than the Ordinance currently in effect.

 

  1. Jones stated he would hold of moving until the election and therefore moved to approve the Ordinance as presented.

 

  1. Woellhof asked J. Jones if he was making a commitment to stay on until the election. J. Jones stated yes.

 

  1. Farmer stated that the minute you are technically not a resident, you are off the Commission. J. Jones stated that it is based on intent.

 

  1. Wells seconded.

 

  1. Woellhof was called to vote and stated that he wanted to be clear that he is all for letting people vote, but if J. Jones has given his commitment that he will stay until the election, he (E. Woellhof) will vote yes.

 

  1. Woellhof, J. Jones and M. Wells voted aye. Katie Harrington and T. VanHoecke voted nay.

 

APPROVED TO PASS AND APPROVE ORDINANCE NO. 3746 ON MAY 16, 2023.

 

APPEARANCES:

 

  1. Jackson Tough /Director of Public Relations and Tourism: J. Tough appeared before the Commission to update them on what is happening in Tourism. He stated that the most recent completion is the 3,000 + rack cards that have been distributed, which tend to be one of the most successful tourism campaigns. He stated that he is also working on new signage on the highway and working with KDOT for new signage for the National Cemetery. He also announced that Fort Scott has been selected to host the 2024 Kansas Museum Conference and he will be working on a video to promote.
  2. Tough stated that the Osage Ballet will be at the FSCC Ellis Center on July 21 and 22, 2023, and the Gordon Parks Celebration is coming up October 5-7, 2023. He has also been involved in the 1st Colored Infantry Mural, Bourbon on the Rocks Gravel Grinding, SEK Regional Tourism Conference, LaRoche quarterly e-mails and the newly created Stay and Play that is creating packages with Woodland Hills Golf Course and are hotels.
  3. Tough fielded questions from Commissioners regarding GeoFencing and comparisons of last years’ statistics to this year’s numbers for tourism.
  4. Matkin stated that with Tourism he believes Fort Scott needs to be proactive and not reactive and focus on networking and building relationships all over the area. He also believes the City’s new App (MyCivicService) will help with Tourism as well.

 

  1. Business Retention by REDI: R. Harrington addressed the Commission by stating that REDI was present to update the Commission on a regular basis as requested.  Tayton Majors updated the Commission about the projects he has been working on for REDI regarding business retention and expansion. T. Majors stated that he collaborates with the grant writer, marketing specialist and the director on each project he works on.  T. Majors outlined that he has been working on with REDI. He stated that the largest project is the creation of a formal business retention and expansion program. It has not yet been completed but has some tentative findings that are eye-opening and have yielded some amazing results.  T. Majors talked about the need for healthcare and moderate-income housing in the community.  He will collaborate with B. Matkin on infrastructure needs.  T. Majors also stated that REDI, in partnership with the Chamber, will host a Rural Workforce Development Summit on June 22, 2023.  He stated that he is also involved in the 1st Colored Infantry Mural. He finished by informing the Commission that he will be leading the development of a Small Business Incentive Package. He stated that each project that REDI does is in close coordination and compliance with the 2018 Comprehensive Plan and the Strategic Initiatives that were discussed at the last meeting.

 

  1. Harrington asked that the City consider an Executive Session at this time to discuss a possible development that could come to Fort Scott.

 

  1. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the session will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager, the City Attorney, Rob Harrington, Mark McCoy, and Kendall Schoenrock. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:18PM.

 

  1. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED HAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO THE FINANCIAL AFFAIRS OR TRADE SECRETS OF CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, TRUSTS, AND INDIVIDUAL PROPRIETORSHIPS EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319(B)(4). IN THE SESSION WILL BE THE (5) CITY COMMISSIONERS, THE CITY MANAGER, THE CITY ATTORNEY, ROB HARRINGTON, MARK MCCOY, AND KENDALL SCHOENROCK. THE OPEN MEETING WILL RESUME IN THE COMMISSION ROOM AT 7:18PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to come out of Executive Session at 7:18PM. K. Harrington seconded. T. VanHoecke, E. Woellhof, and K. Harrington voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:18PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the session will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager, the City Attorney, Rob Harrington, Mark McCoy, and Kendall Schoenrock. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:30PM.

 

  1. Harrington seconded. T. VanHoecke, E. Woellhof, and K. Harrington voted aye.

 

APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO THE FINANCIAL AFFAIRS OR TRADE SECRETS OF CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, TRUSTS, AND INDIVIDUAL PROPRIETORSHIPS EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319(B)(4). IN THE SESSION WILL BE THE (5) CITY COMMISSIONERS, THE CITY MANAGER, THE CITY ATTORNEY, ROB HARRINGTON, MARK MCCOY, AND KENDALL SCHOENROCK. THE OPEN MEETING WILL RESUME IN THE COMMISSION ROOM AT 7:30PM.

 

  1. Wells moved to come out of Executive Session at 7:30PM with no action. J. Jones seconded. J. Jones, K. Harrington, and M. Wells voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:30PM.

 

  1. Harrington took the podium and stated that he has had some discussions with Bond Counselors as well as B. Farmer and B. Matkin regarding a project we’ve been working on for a couple of years now. He stated that he is coming to the City Commission tonight for REDI to recommend the City Commission authorize City staff and Bond Counsel to move forward on a TIF and a STAR Bond District.

 

  1. Matkin stated that he was given authorization as City staff with the Bond Counsel to move forward with the process of establishing the STAR Bond and TIF Districts for the project that R. Harrington has been working on.

 

  1. Jones asked what the next step would be.

 

  1. Farmer stated that the next step would be discussions with the Kansas Department of Commerce. He said it basically means that the State is underwriting a portion of this project with their share of sales tax money that they receive from the district that is formed here. He stated that the developer has a list of what they want to develop here. The State determines whether any of it is eligible or if they are interested in using taxpayer’s money to develop the plan. It then comes back to the City to fill in all the details.

 

 

 

 

  1. Wells stated that at this point our Bond Counsel and our City are asking permission to go ahead and proceed forward with the establishment of drawing up the different districts or the TIF and STAR Bond so that we can move forward with the sports complex.

 

  1. Farmer stated that the County will have to go into the program with the City because some of the land is within City limits and some is outside.

 

  1. Jones moved to move forward with the establishment of the TIF and STAR Bond Districts. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TIF AND STAR BOND DISTRICTS.

 

  1. Justin Pregont – Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE SUBMISSION OF THE MODERATE-INCOME HOUSING GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CERTAIN HOUSING WITHIN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS TO ACCOMPANY THE GRANT APPLICATION TO THE KANSAS HOUSING RESOURCES CORPORATION:

 

  1. Jones moved to approve Resolution 9-2023. Katie Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED RESOLUTION 9-2023.

 

  1. Lindsay Madison – Consideration of Application for Parade Permit – Good Ol’ Days Festival Annual Parade “Back to the Bricks with Family, Friends and Fun,” Request is the same as last year so she will not appear, only submit application:

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the application for the Good Ol’ Days Festival Annual Parade as submitted on the application by Lindsay Madison for June 2, 2023, beginning at 6:00PM. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE APPLICATION FOR THE GOOD OL’ DAYS FESTIVAL ANNUAL PARADE AS SUBMITTED ON THE APPLICATION BY LINDSAY MADISON FOR JUNE 2, 2023, BEGINNING AT 6:00PM.

 

PUBLIC HEARING:  None

 

NEW BUSINESS:

 

  1. Split Case Pump for WTP – S. Flater: S. Flater/Water Utilities Director requested that the Commission consider and take action to accept the quote from Alliance Pump and Mechanical Services, Inc. to provide labor and materials for the repair of the Goulds 3410 6X8 split case pump. Staff will rebuild split case pump #3 om the High Service Pump Station at the Water Production Plant. S. Flater stated that this item was on the capital improvement and is routine maintenance but must be done before problems arise.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the purchase of the Split Case Pump from Alliance Pump and Mechanical Service, Inc. for the Water Treatment Plant in the amount of $12,671.92. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO PURCHASE THE SPLIT CASE PUMP FROM ALLIANCE PUMP AND MECHANICAL SERVICE, INC. FOR THE WATER TREATEMENT PLANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,671.92.

 

  1. Consideration of Park Advisory Board’s unanimous recommendation to fill vacancy with candidate Kimberly Young: It was stated for transparency that Kimberly is a City Employee and employees are eligible to sit on an advisory board as a citizen.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the recommendation of the Park Advisory Board to fill the vacant seat with applicant Kimberly Young. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE PARK ADVISORY BOARD TO FILL THE VACANT SEAT WITH APPLICANT KIMBERLY YOUNG.

 

  1. Consideration of Acquisition of Land for Economic Development and Construction of a Manufacturing Plant: M. Wells moved to have Letter of Intent sent out to move forward with the project.

 

  1. VanHoecke questioned whether the information can be disclosed to the public.

 

  1. Farmer stated it is reasonable to discuss concerns.

 

MOTION DIES FOR LACK OF A SECOND.

 

  1. Consideration of Approval of Boundary Survey for 37+/- Acre Parcel and Certificate of Survey of a 20-Acre Parcel Split out from boundary for the Acquisition of land for Economic Development and Construction for a Manufacturing Plant to be completed by Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. for $5,000.00. – M. Wells

 

  1. Wells requested that the matter be tabled until May 17, 2023, Special City Commission Meeting.

 

  1. Establishment of a Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) – M. Wells: After discussion with the Commission, it was decided to direct the City Manager to move forward and work with developers to pick (3) sites for developing RHID’s in the community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

REPORTS AND COMMENTS:

 

City Manager:  B. Matkin

  1. Memorial Hall steps require another coat to be completed.
  2. Diehl, Banwart and Bolton will begin the City’s audit.
  3. The “Icehouse” is down. There have not been plans or a timetable presented.
  4. Rearing Pond concerns addressed
  5. There is no leak on the dam.

 

City Engineer:  J. Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspection

1, Bennet Construction has begun mobilizing for the CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project and their sign is up.

  1. Survey is completed on Wall Street.
  2. 6th and Horton – request for Certifications is to the Clerk

 

 

COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS:

 

  1. VanHoecke:
  2. Thankful for the much-needed rain.
  3. Not against Economic Development, just concerned about money spent.
  4. Thank you B. Matkin – discussion about Golf Course produced do solutions.

 

  1. Woellhof:
  2. Announced he will run in the November 2023 election to maintain a seat on the Fort Scott City Commission.
  3. Gunn Park Road is in bad shape – any plans?
  4. In favor of the City contributing to the Fireworks Display this year.

 

  1. Harrington:
  2. School is out for the summer, reminder to be extra observant and careful.
  3. The Lake Advisory board requested that the Commission temporarily restrict wake boards and similar activities due to low lake level and blue algae.

 

  1. Jones: No Comment

 

  1. Wells:
  2. Congratulations to FSHS Baseball who won the Regional Championship.
  3. Osage Ballet at the Ellis Center (FSCC) July 21st and 22nd.

 

 

City Attorney Comments:  No comments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjournment:

 

  1. Harrington moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:40PM. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:40PM.

 

 

Respectfully submitted for approval,

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Government, Kansas

Grants Available For Cities/Counties COVID-19 Issues For Small Businesses

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Department of Commerce Makes $2 Million Available for COVID Resiliency Program

TOPEKA – The Department of Commerce will award $2 million through the Community Development Block Grant – COVID Resiliency (CDBG-CVR) program to enable cities and counties to address issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic when no other funds are available. This is a competitive CDBG grant with an application window that closes July 31, 2023.

Funding for the program was made available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the State of Kansas should utilize CDBG-CV funds to modernize facilities owned and operated by small businesses that provide vital services and goods. Funds will be prioritized for for-profit businesses that have a majority ownership by a socially or economically disadvantaged person or persons as defined in 15 CFR 1400.0.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they were hit hard by the pandemic,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “We are pleased to receive this funding that will help support more Kansas businesses and enable them to continue serving their communities.”

Eligible activities for the CDBG-CVR program include COVID resiliency improvements for businesses such as:

Upgrades to remain open and prevent future closures due to community illnesses and public health emergencies
Technology, hardware, and software upgrades
E-commerce updates
Professional development and training
Other updates that can be directly related to resiliency improvements

Eligible businesses must have at least 51% of their employees meet the low- to moderate-income (LMI) standards. Like other CDBG grants, cities and counties will apply for the funds on behalf of eligible businesses and then make the funds available, administering the program locally. Non-LMI communities can still qualify for this funding if not an entitlement community. The LMI requirement is determined by the business and not the city.

The Kansas Department of Commerce provides CDBG funds to non-entitlement communities across the state, while entitlement communities receive CDBG funding directly from the federal government. Entitlement communities in Kansas include Kansas City, Lawrence, Leavenworth, Manhattan, Overland Park, Topeka, Wichita, and all of Johnson County. Cities and counties are also ineligible if they have a current balance in in their CDBG Local Revolving Loan Funds account.

For more information on the CDBG-CVR program and to access the application, click here.

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 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Good Ol’ Days Parade Winners Announced

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 2023 Good Ol’ Days Parade winners. The Chamber would like to thank everyone who entered and participated in the parade. The Chamber would also like to thank the many volunteers who judged, marked the line-up, or otherwise assisted with the event.
Category Winner
Float           Pint Sized Ice Cream Shop
Foot            Unit Cal Cosens
Tractor      Ron Sharp
Horses      Niece Products
Classic Car Michaleen & Claude O’Dell
Golf Cart   Whispering Willows
Antique Car Jim Fewins

The Chamber organizes the Good Ol’ Days Parade, Halloween Parade and the Christmas Parade.

If you have feedback or suggestions for future parades you may contact the Chamber at (620) 223-3566 or email [email protected].

Obituary

Obituary of Flona Jane Palmer

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Flona Jane “Jani” Palmer, age 68, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, June 4, 2023, at her apartment in Cavalry Crossing.

She was born October 11, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, the daughter of J. E. Douglas Palmer and Clara Christine Honaker Palmer.

Janie had lived primarily in Maryland where she worked for a time in childcare and also as a bus driver; however, her most important job was being a mother and grandmother.

She enjoyed arts and crafts – there was never a craft she would not try.  She especially liked painting and drawing as well as crocheting and cross-stitch.  In 2016, she moved to Kansas to be near family.

The last year and a half were spent at Cavalry Crossing.

Jani enjoyed playing marbles and participating in activities with the other residents.  She enjoyed reading and had recently reorganized the apartment complex’s library.  Some of her favorite times were spent at the beach.

Survivors include her three children, Michael Guns, Jr. (Julie) of Delaware, Christine Guns of West Virginia and Douglas Guns (Melissa) of Ft. Scott, Kansas and ten grandchildren, Michael Guns III, Morgan Guns, Alyssa Haymaker, Grayson Guns, Liam Guns, Douglas Guns, Jr., Zander Guns, Emma Guns, John Guns and Lincoln Guns.  Also surviving are a sister, Connie Callahan of Spokane, Missouri and three brothers, Rick Palmer, Cherry Hill, Maryland, Douglas Palmer, Jr., Onalaska, Texas and Ronald Hancock of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Janie was preceded in death by her parents.

There was cremation and no public service is planned.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Fort Scott, Government

NEWS RELEASE – CITY COMMISSION VACANCY

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Effective June 6, 2023, Josh Jones resigned his position as City Commissioner on the Fort Scott City Commission.  Persons interested in applying to fill the position vacated by Commissioner Josh Jones are asked to submit a Letter of Interest to:  City Clerk, Lisa Lewis at 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas  66701 or by email at [email protected] . Letters of Interest must be received by the City Clerk by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023. Only individuals who reside in the City limits of Fort Scott are eligible to apply.  Once the appointment has been made, it will become effective at the next scheduled City Commission meeting, June 20th, 2023, and the term will expire in December of 2025.

 

Any additional information or questions may be obtained by contacting Lisa Lewis, City Clerk OR Brad Matkin, City Manager at 620-223-0550.

 

Obituary

Obituary of Glenn Post

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Glenn M. Post, 103, resident of Redfield, Kansas, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023, at his home. He was born on June 2, 1920, in Redfield, Kansas, the son of Marion Melvin Post and Gladys Elizabeth (McHenry) Post.

 

Glenn was a WWII veteran and member of the V.F.W., a 60-year member of the Xenia Masonic Lodge, as well as the Grange.

 

Survivors include his daughter, Vickie Kay McWilliams, of Redfield; two sisters, Anna Ruth Bybee of Parsons, Kansas, and Natalie Comstock, of Fort Scott; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a grandson, Robert Kerr.

 

Rev, Chub Bolling, Rev. Seth Bolling, and Tom Bradbury will officiate graveside services on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Marion (Paint Creek) Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mirza Transportation Fund and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.

 

Obituary

Obituary of Leta Welch

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Leta Ann Poore Welch, 82, of Fort Scott, peacefully passed away on June 3, 2023, to join her Lord and Savior. She was born on December 13, 1940, in Bronson, Kansas, to the late Paul and Pearlie Roberts Poore. Leta was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Pearlie Poore, her beloved brothers Howard and Melvin Poore, her nephew Brian Shelton, and the love of her life, Jerry Welch.

 

Growing up in Bronson, Leta attended Bronson schools and cherished her hometown. She embodied love as a daughter, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Leta dedicated many years of her life working at the Western Insurance Company, Newman Young Clinic, and Key Industries. Her caring nature led her to employment at Tri-Valley Developmental Center and Care-4-U, where she found joy in taking care of others.

 

Leta is survived by her sister Martha (John) Shelton of Drexel, Missouri; her son Roger (Carolyn) Welch of Bronson, Kansas; her daughter DeAnn (Bill) Cambers of Walnut, Kansas; and her daughter Lisa (Ron) Gray of Olathe, Kansas. She leaves behind cherished grandchildren Ryan (Jonna) Mills of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Paul Welch of Fort Scott, Kansas; Bayley (Brett) Linn of Garnett, Kansas; Kelsey (Dalton) Bruns of Mound City, Kansas; Jordyn (Jon) of Spring Hill, Kansas; and Dane Cummings (Dani) of Girard, Kansas. Leta’s great-grandchildren, Isaac Mills and Kate Mills, Brynleigh and Barrett Linn, Sutton and Walker Bruns, Luke Cooper, and Remi Cummings, will forever carry her memory. Additionally, she is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members who will deeply miss her presence.

 

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Horton House for their exceptional love and care during her stay there.

 

Rev. Marty DeWitt will officiate graveside services to celebrate Leta’s life on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Uniontown Cemetery, under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.

 

 

Art, Business, Fort Scott

Artist Reception and Master Class at Artificers

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Join Us at The Artificers For

Phillip Ortiz

Opening Reception and Master Class!

This Friday!

June 9th 6PM

Artist Opening Reception

Master Artist

Phillip Ortiz, Mixed Media Artist
Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Commission Minutes of May 22

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May 22, 2023                                                                                                         Monday, 5:30 p.m.

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present at the Garland Community Center.

 

David Klein, Raymond Kalm, Lester Waring, Ruth Waring, Shirley Colvin, Tammie Underwood, Rob Gray, Jeremiah Hill, Richard Cullison Jr., Kathy Crisp, Clint Walker, and Rachel Walker were present for some or all of the meeting.

 

Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute followed by a prayer led by Nelson Blythe.

 

Clifton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes the approval of minutes from last week’s meeting, approval of payroll totaling $327,284.67, and the approval of accounts payable totaling $780,170.75. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Matthew Wells, Mayor of the City of Fort Scott, asked the commission for a donation for the fireworks show that Fort Scott provides. Mr. Wells asked for the same amount that Bourbon County gives to Uniontown or any other town. Jim stated the Uniontown show is not paid for by the city, but by a private company.  Jim said he appreciates the city stepping up to provide a fireworks display for our residents. Nelson stated he doesn’t believe that government funds should be involved and does not want to use taxpayer dollars in that manner. Clifton said to his knowledge Bourbon County hasn’t donated to a fireworks display before. Jim made a motion to donate $2500 to the City of Fort Scott for a fireworks display. The motion failed due to a lack of a second. Clifton made a motion to donate $500 to the City of Fort Scott and the City of Uniontown for a fireworks show from the PILOT funds. It was explained that the PILOT funds are revenues generated from the Jayhawk Wind project and are not taxpayer dollars. Jim seconded the motion, but Nelson opposed stating no county funds should go to fireworks. The motion passed 2-1. Jim said we are responsible for a better quality of life for our residents.

 

Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to allow for an executive session with Matthew Wells. Jim seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Clifton made a motion to go into a 7-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships to include all three Commissioners, Matthew Wells, and Justin Meeks. The executive session will be conducted in another room in the community center and the Commission will return at 5:46. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 5:46 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Dustin Hall, Assistant Public Works Director, gave an update stating they are redoing decking on the bridge at 60th and Arrowhead Road. Dustin said there have been 21 signs vandalized throughout the county. The laydown machine is currently waiting on a part, but they anticipate having the machine back this week. The crusher has been down due a programming issue, but the company will be here Wednesday to fix it. Jim asked if the price of oil was still ok, and Dustin said it is good right now.

 

Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to strike Eric’s executive session. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved.

 

Tim Spehr submitted an application for a road closure on a portion of 260th Street south of Deer Road. Mr. Spehr stated he came before the Commission a few years ago and was told by the prior board no because re-opening a road could be a hassle. Mr. Spehr said the road is in bad shape and isn’t driveable. Jeremiah Hill voiced his concern and said he disagrees with closing the road. Mr. Hill said there was an agreement with the coal company who was to put the road back in good condition when they were done reclaiming. The Commissioners discussed the condition of the road as they all separately viewed the section of road that Mr. Spehr is wanting to close. Clifton said he takes in all input and if a motion is made today, he will abstain until he talks to all the landowners on 260th Street between Cavalry Road and Deer Road. Jim tabled the application for a few weeks to allow the Commission to speak to the area landowners and do more research. The County Clerk will contact Tim Spehr and Jeremiah Hill when the issue is placed back on the agenda.

 

Jeremiah Hill questioned the section of Eagle Road that is scheduled to be paved this year and asked why it was starting at the railroad tracks and going to the state line instead starting at the top of the hill. Dustin said they’ve discussed starting at the railroad tracks due to the budget, but if there are funds left, they may be able to tie in and asphalt to the hill.

 

Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, asked the Commission about the schedule for future evening meetings. There are currently meetings scheduled in Uniontown and Mapleton, and Jennifer stated if additional locations are wanted, she needs to reserve buildings and notify the public. The Commissioners decided to have a meeting in Hammond on June 19th.

 

Jim opened the meeting to public comments and stated if an identifiable individual is going to be discussed it would have to be done in executive session.

 

Vicki Shead stated the county has previously sprayed poisonous Hemlock and the area around 250th Street and Deer Road needs sprayed again. Mrs. Shead stated the Hemlock is very dangerous and can kill deer and cattle and she is concerned as there are kids who go fishing at the bridge where it is located.

 

Larry Shead thanked the county for quickly cleaning the graffiti on the metal bridge. Mr. Shead asked if the county would be mowing to the fences as they did last year, and Dustin replied in the fall they will try to make two passes while mowing.

 

Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to add an executive session. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy to discuss job performance and will include all three Commissioners, Dustin Hall, and Jeremiah Hill. The executive session will be conducted in another room in the community center and the Commission will return at 6:21. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 6:21 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Richard Cullison Jr. and Raymond Kalm discussed Tweedy and Custard cemeteries and how they are not being mowed properly. Mr. Kalm said a lot of people come in for Memorial Day and the cemeteries need mowed especially then. Since the county does not mow the cemeteries the County Clerk will research who is on those cemetery boards and notify them of the mowing issues.

 

Nelson talked about how there are roads in the county that are not maintained, and employees not paid well, and the county has to stop spending money on things like fireworks and extra stuff. The recent $50,000 donation that Bourbon County made to Core Communities was brought up. Jim stated that the Meals on Wheels program and the Southeast Mental Health Clinic makes life better for Bourbon County residents and he will always vote to help the elderly. Jim said the $50,000 donation will help 50 families out of poverty and to think about how that will help the next generation, that we have to reach out and help them. Nelson asked about those who work for Bourbon County who make $13.00 an hour. Jim said the Sheriff’s Department, Jail, and Public Works have given raises and they need to work on the courthouse, but that we can’t abandon other people we need to make the county a better place to live. Clifton said the money given to Meals on Wheels and for the elderly is a good investment.  Clifton stated they have lowered the levy 5 mills since he has been Commissioner and not raised taxes. Jim agreed they have lowered taxes and helped people.

 

Jim said he was contacted by the Fort Scott Tribune about not releasing minutes of the meetings before they are approved. Jim said it is up to the Commissioners, but he is ok as long as it is posted as un-official minutes. Clifton said he has been misquoted in the minutes before and Nelson agreed and said if he sees something wrong, he will want it corrected. Justin explained that the notes the County Clerk takes during the meeting are KORA discoverable. Jason Silvers, with the Fort Scott Tribune, said if they report something from unofficial minutes, they report it as such. A comment from a previous article regarding the meetings outside of the courthouse was discussed. Jim said it was questioned if the Commission wanted to please five people in person or 200 who watch on livestream. The residents in attendance were asked if they liked having meetings come to the smaller communities in the county, and they responded yes. Clifton said that the meetings don’t have to be livestreamed and Jim explained that started during COVID when the courthouse was closed, and residents were unable to attend meetings. Clifton stated a lot of counties are stopping the livestream of their meetings. Justin stated that for the whole time he was county counselor people have been asking for night meetings.

 

Jim gave an update on the Elm Creek dam project stating Eric Bailey has been in contact with engineers and contractors to set up meetings. Clifton suggested if anybody knows of contractors to have them contact the Commission to go look at the dam. Jim said they want four or five contractors to look at the dam and will need an engineer if it goes to the grant process.

 

Clifton asked those in attendance if they would like the meetings to come out in the community more often and they responded yes and they would like more notice. Clifton said he would love to have more people come to the meetings.

 

Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:43. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

Approved 6-5-2023

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

___________________, Chairman

___________________, Commissioner

___________________, Commissioner

ATTEST:

___________________,

Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Clerk

_______________, Approved Date