Category Archives: Bourbon County
Bourbon County Commission Meeting July 20 Cancelled
The County Commission Meeting for tomorrow is CANCELLED due to two commissioners not available.
Beech Street Eats: A Full Restaurant on Wheels
A new restaurant on wheels started on Memorial Day 2021 by Wesley and Kenna Smith, called Beech Street Eats.
“My parents, Kenneth and Calen Alley, owned the Riverside Cafe in Belltown for 15 years,” Kenna Smith said. “We kids worked there.”
“I managed the Best Western OFF Club and restaurant from 1986 to ’89,” Smith said.
Her brother John Alley works as the cook in the new food trailer venture.
“John was grill cook at Mercy Hospital for 20 years,” she said. “My dad was a cook in the navy. We’ve always done food. We are a family of cooks.”
“We decided on a 30-foot food trailer, so we can travel,” she said.
When they first started at the end of May, they were asked to do weddings and graduation parties, and even the Good ‘Ol Days Festival, but wanted to get a little experience in the food trailer business first, she said
They park their food trailer on the east side of Lockwoods Motor Supply, located at 1523 S. National Avenue, Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
“But we might switch that up in the future,” Smith said.
The employees are herself, her brother, John, her daughter Chasi Pickert and Cristy Montogo.
Mark Brillhart, a Bourbon County Fair Board member, asked the Smiths to provide food during the fair last week.
They had a steady stream of customers.
On the horizon for the business is providing food for special events and festivals, she said.
Some of their crowd favorite offerings are street burritos, Philly sandwiches, and quesadillas, she said.
“The street burrito is a 14-inch shell filled with steak, chicken, cheese, guac, homemade pico, salsa with steak fries,” Smith said. “It’s one of our best sellers.”
“For the quesadilla, we make our own pico, fresh every day,” she said. “We try to get our tomatoes and onions from the Fort Scott Farmer’s Market.”
For those craving a sweet dessert, they include homemade cherry cheesecake and homemade peanut butter pie to finish out a meal.
For more information or to phone an order: 620-224-8005.
Be Aware of Child Tax Credit Scams
Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent
Adult Development and Aging
Family Resource Management
K-State Research and Extension
Southwind Extension District
210 S. National
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Office: 620-223-3720
Fax: 620-223-0332
[email protected]
Advance Child Tax Credit & Scams
To help parents during the pandemic, the Child Tax Credit has been expanded under the American Rescue Plan Act. This means that many families will receive advance payments starting July 15, this opportunity is confusing and scammers are already are jumping into the game with attempts to capture personal information from you.
What is the Child Tax Credit (CTC)? The CTC is available if you claim any children younger than 17. The CTC has been $2,000 per qualifying child. For 2021, the amount will increase to $3,600 for children ages 5 and under and $3,000 for children ages 6 through 17. Note, the CTC amount is based on income.
The American Rescue Act included an Advance Child Tax Credit Payments program. These early payments from the IRS are half of the estimated CTC that you may properly claim on your 2021 tax return during the 2022 filing season. If the IRS has processed your 2020 or 2019 tax return, these monthly payments will be made starting in July and through December.
In general, you do not need to do anything to receive these advance payments. You may opt out of the monthly payments and get your money in one lump sum when you file during 2022.
Families should be on the alert for scammers using phone calls, emails, texts and social media to trick them into providing information needed to get the new 2021 advance Child Tax Credit. The IRS emphasizes that the only way to get the Advance Child Tax Credit is by either filing a tax return with the IRS or registering online through the Non-filer Sign-up tool , exclusively on IRS.gov. Any other option is a scam.
There are many details regarding the Advance Child Tax Credit. To learn more and find answers to your questions, I recommend 3 resources. First is the IRS Advance Child Tax Credit Payments in 2021 (www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021). Here you can learn the details of program, unenroll from advance payments, and non-filers can submit information. The second is The White House (www.whitehouse.gov/child-tax-credit). Here they will cover the same topics as the IRS, but also provide some examples of how the Child Tax Credit works for families that may be similar to yours. The third source is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (www.consumerfinance.gov/coronavirus/managing-your-finances/).
For more information, contact Joy Miller at [email protected] or by calling 620.223.3720
Bourbon County Agenda For Today
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: July 16, 2021
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District-Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Kendell Mason
**MEETING WILL BE HELD FRIDAY, JULY 16TH AT CITY HALL 123 S. MAIN, FORT SCOTT
7:00 PM – Emergency Declaration regarding the Eagle Block Building
Bourbon County Commission Agenda For July 20
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: July 20, 2021
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District-Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Kendell Mason
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM.
Call to Order
-
- Flag Salute
- Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
- Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
- Matt Quick – Resolution to Appoint an Interim Appraiser
- Lynne Oharah – KCAMP
- Michael Braim – Lynne Oharah’s outburst at Anne Dare in the last meeting
- Jim Harris – Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships (10 minutes)
- Mary Pemberton – Budget Comments
- Tiana McElroy – Personnel
- Elected Officials Comment
- County Counselor Comment
- Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
- Public Comment
- Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session:
KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
KSA 75-4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
KSA 75-4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency
KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property
KSA 75-4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.
Applications Accepted For Grants Through Local Foundation
The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation is pleased to announce that we will begin accepting applications for the 2021 grant cycle beginning August 2nd.
The deadline for submission will be August 31st. Maximum grant is $5,000.00.
For a grant application, email Gregg Motley at [email protected].
A Walk Through the Fair
A walk through the Bourbon County Fair on Wednesday afternoon was comfortable with a breeze and upper 80s temperature.
This was perfect weather for viewing the activity on the fairgrounds.
Thursday’s events include the Chamber Coffee, swine judging, exhibits in the Myer’s Building, 4-H Fashion Show, cornhole tournament, Christmas in July at the Merchant’s Building, and ends with a 4-H Member Dance.
Friday’s: livestock judging contest, exhibits, 4-H Barnyard Olympics, Christmas in July at the Merchant’s Building, Buyers Appreciation Supper, and the junior livestock sale.
Saturday is clean-up day and ends the fair with live music performances at 6:30 p.m.
Here are a few of Wednesday’s sights.
Some of the grand champions in the 4-H Building:
O’Brien Starts a Consignment Business
Christy Schobey O’Brien has had a dream for years to start a business.
In April 2021, she was given four real estate properties in Bronson, located in the westernmost town in Bourbon County.
“My first intention was to open (a place) to showcase my t-shirt company,” O’Brien said.
“It turned out being more,” she said.
On July 2, she began work on a consignment store at Hwy. 54 and Charles Street in Bronson to be called Highway Dreams.
“Once we are able to finish the inside, we plan to house homemade items by local artists and vendors,” she said. “For now, we will be showcasing locals only.”
She currently says her consignment offerings are furniture, clothing, jewelry, books, and crafts.
“Weekends we plan to have all friendly faces set up, yard sale style,” she said. “I plan to have tables and racks and a clothesline. Bring your tent and chair if you need shade and do not sit in the grass.”
August 5 is the tentative opening date of the venture.
Contact her at 620.228-1338 or [email protected]
Bourbon County Commission Minutes of July 6
July 6, 2021 Tuesday 9:00 am
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Commissioner Oharah and Commissioner Harris present, Commissioner Beth arrived at 9:20, the County Counselor and the County Clerk were also present.
Also present were the following: (some were present for a portion of the meeting and some were present for the entire meeting), Jason Silvers with the Fort Scott Tribune, Susan Bancroft, Michael Hoyt, Anne Dare, Mr. & Mrs. Clint Walker, Harley & Beverly Fuhrman, Lora Holdridge and Economic Development Director Rob Harrington.
Lynne made a motion to approve the previous meetings Commission minutes, Jim seconded and the motion passed.
The Commissioners received a request for a permanent road opening at 45th & Unique; Lora said this used to be an open road, but was closed, Jim said it was closed in 1849. Lora said one road in that area is not officially closed, but is being used as a private driveway. Jim said he was concerned that if they opened this road, they would receive more requests in the future to open roads. Lynne said they couldn’t deny access to an individual’s property. Lynne made a motion to support opening 1,293’ starting at 45th & Unique going East, Jim seconded and the motion passed. Lynne made a motion to sign the application for the permanent road opening of 1,293’ starting at 45th & Unique Road going East, Jim seconded the motion and the motion passed and they signed the application. Lynne made a motion to adopt Resolution 18-21 to open 1,293’ starting at 45th & Unique going East, Jim seconded and the motion passed and they signed the resolution.
Lynne asked Eric to review an area of Unique going West off 95th; Lynne said it had never been closed.
Eric Bailey said heavy rain had caused washouts around the County and they are hauling gravel. He said they had a sinkhole at 75th North of 54 Highway and a sinkhole on Xavier ¾ mile East of 215th, both sinkholes have been fixed.
Eric said they will be doing a blast at the Beth Quarry on July 13th. They will then be crushing at the Beth Quarry.
They are asphalting on the Jefferson Highway now. Eric said that asphalt oil had gone up $40/ton.
Eric said they will be putting berms around the soybeans this week.
Eric said the KDOT off system bridge report is due at the end of July; he said he is working with Schwab Eaton on this.
Jim said that at some time they need to clean up the metal bridge on 250th.
Windmill update; Eric said they are also dealing with the heavy rains.
Lynne asked Eric to check out 120th & Unity going South to make sure it is a closed road and said if not there is a metal bridge there that is dangerous.
County Counselor Comment: Justin Meeks said he had received a petition to revoke a 1 cent sales tax on the City-wide sales tax; he said he would meet with Kendell Thursday of this week and will get a response back to the individual that sent the petition.
Mercy Hospital facility: Justin said the County is now the owner of the Bourbon County healthcare facility (formerly Mercy Hospital), Clifton said 3 employees there will keep the building up to the Joint Commission Standards. The Commissioners will be over the 3 employees, but there is a supervisor amongst the 3 employees. Susan Bancroft said one of the employees had been working under contract, but is retiring, so they would need to replace this employee. Lynne said the contracts in place now have to be honored.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to have an executive session, Jim seconded and the motion passed.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 15 minute executive session for KSA 75-4319(b) (1) to discuss personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel to protect their privacy the session is related to job function, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in the Commission room at 9:49, Jim seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Shane Walker and Justin Meeks). Clifton made a motion to resume the normal session, with action, Jim seconded and all approved.
Clifton made a motion that the County take on two of the existing employees at the Bourbon County Health System as County employees, Jim seconded and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to make Shane Walker – the County I/T director the director of the Bourbon County Health System facility, and that all contacts go to him regarding maintenance and I/T there, Jim seconded and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to give Susan Bancroft the ability to post for a maintenance technician at the Bourbon County Health System facility, Jim seconded and all approved.
Susan Bancroft will work with Kendell to add the Bourbon County Health System facility employees to the County Salary Schedule.
Clifton made a motion to approve allowing Lynne Oharah to sign the feasibility study (for the healthcare facility), Jim seconded and all approved.
Justin Meeks said they would probably publish for the tax sale next week.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 20-minute executive session for KSA 75-4319(b) (6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property for that reason, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in the Commission room at 10:19, Jim seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Rob Harrington, Shane Walker and Justin Meeks). Clifton made a motion to resume the regular session, Jim seconded and all approved.
Lynne made a motion to give Clifton permission to call someone at Pittsburg State regarding a contract with Bourbon County, Jim seconded and approved.
Lynne made a motion to allow Rob Harrington and Susan Bancroft to look into an issue with a MOU and come back to the Commission next Tuesday about this, Jim seconded the motion, Justin said the MOU deals with real property that is not owned by the County and will possibly have revisions to it, all approved the motion.
Susan Bancroft reminded the Commissioners of the budget work session next Tuesday, July 13th.
Public Comment: none
Commissioner Comment: Jim said he had received a phone call from Jeremy Frazier at the City of Fort Scott, requesting that he be part of the HR interview process; Justin Meeks said as a private citizen he didn’t need a motion to allow this. Justin said they are still looking into a shared service on this, but aren’t sure.
At 10:23, Clifton made a motion to adjourn, Jim seconded and all approved.
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
(ss) Lynne Oharah, Chairman
(ss) Jim Harris, Commissioner
(ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner
ATTEST:
Kendell Mason, Bourbon County Clerk
July 13, 2021, Approved Date
Local Democrats Meet July 18
The Bourbon County Democrats will hold a social meeting on Sunday, July 18th from 2-4 p.m. at Fort Scott Community College in the Administration Building’s Heritage Room.
Submitted by Carol MacArthur, Chair, Bourbon Co. Democrats
620 215 1505
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As Parents Get Older
As parents get older, we want to be reassured they are taking care of themselves and staying healthy. That can be hard to discern at times, especially if we live a distance away. The Mayo Clinic suggests these questions to think about as we consider the abilities and health of our older parents.
Are they able to take care of themselves? Pay attention to their personal appearance and to things around the house. Failure to keep up with personal hygiene, yard work, and housework might be signs of dementia, depression or physical impairments.
Is there an issue with memory loss? It’s normal to forget things from to time to time. However, asking the same question repeatedly; getting lost in familiar places; and becoming confused about time, people and places can be indicators of memory loss.
Are your parents safe at home? Here again, watch for red flags around the house. Do they have difficulty in navigating narrow stairways? Have either of them fallen recently? Are they having difficulty reading directions on medication containers?
Are your parents safe on the road? Driving can be challenging for older adults. If they are easily confused while driving or they have experienced a moving violation, it might be time to stop driving.
Have your parents lost weight? Weight loss without trying could be a sign that something is wrong. They may be experiencing a lack of energy, difficulty in grasping tools, or reading labels. They may have lost interest in eating, due to a loss of taste and smell. Weight loss can also signify other serious underlying conditions.
Are your parents in good spirits? Monitor your parents’ moods and ask how they are feeling. A drastic change in mood or outlook could be a sign of depression or other health concerns.
Are they still social? Inquire about their activities. Are they staying connected with friends, their usual organizations or faith-based communities? Are they maintaining interest in hobbies and other daily activities? If they have given up on some of these activities, it could indicate a problem.
Are they able to get around? Note how your parents walk. Are mobility issues limiting their usual walking distances or activities? Would an assistive device, such as a cane or walker, help?
If any of these indicators exist, consider sharing your concerns with them. Talk with your parents about seeing a doctor and making changes. Including close friends in the conversation may help. Encourage regular medical check-ups where weight loss, changes in mood, or memory loss may be a concern. Maybe you or someone else could attend the doctor visit with them.
Discuss potential safety issues with your parents and work with them to make a plan to address them. Some simple home modifications may help in preventing falls. Transportation options may be discussed rather than driving themselves. Home care services may also be an alternative to assist with house cleaning, running errands, or in-home meals.
Contact the doctor for guidance if your parents dismiss your concerns. The doctor may need permission from your parents to discuss your parents’ care. However, these discussions may give you and the doctor insight on future doctor visits.
Look into local agencies that offer aging assistance services. A local or area Agency on Aging would be a good first place to start. There may be social workers available that may evaluate your parents’ needs and help connect them with local services.
Some older adults don’t want to admit they can’t do something on their own or don’t realize they need help. They may not know where to start to look for assistance to help them remain as independent as possible.
It’s important that they understand the problem and the proposed solution. Remind your parents that you care about them and that you want to help support their health and well-being, both today and in the years to come.
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