Category Archives: Bourbon County

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program

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Joy Miller, RD, LD
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]

K-State Research and Extension Southwind District

Family Consumer Science News Column

Joy Miller

620-223-3720 or [email protected]

Release: May 14, 2021

COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program, What Do You Need to Know?

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) began providing financial assistance for funeral expenses under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The Funeral Assistance program is one of the ever-evolving schemes to take advantage of a vulnerable economic moment. Read on to learn more about the Funeral Assistance Program and tips to avoid being scammed.

Beginning in April, survivors can apply for up to $9,000 in qualifying funeral expenses if a loved one past away after January 20, 2020 related to COVID-19.

To be eligible for the funeral assistance, applicants must meet these conditions.

  • The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.
  • COVID-19 related death must have occurred in the United States or U.S. territories.
  • No requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen, or qualified alien.
  • Applicant(s) is a U.S. Citizen or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses for a death attributed to COVID-19.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 9a.m. to 9p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. No online applications will be accepted. Prior to calling, start gathering documents such as official death certificate, funeral expense receipts and contracts, and proof of funds received from other sources specifically used toward funeral costs. This information will need to be submitted after registering the application. Review the Funeral Assistance frequently asked questions page for qualifications, covered expenses, and information needed to apply at COVID-19 Funeral Assistance|FEMA.gov.

FEMA reports that scammers are contacting people and pretending to offer to register them for funeral expense benefits. To avoid government imposter scams, here are some tips:

  • FEMA will not contact you until you call or apply for assistance.
  • The government won’t ask you to pay anything to get this benefit.
  • Don’t give your own or your deceased loved one’s personal or financial information to anyone who randomly contacts you.

If you get a scam call, hang up and report it to the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

For more information, contact Joy Miller at [email protected] or call 620.223.3720.

Bourbon County, Business, Food

New Venture For the Shead Family: Organic Homestead Festival

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The Shead family, minus three grandchildren who hadn’t been born yet. Submitted photo.

Larry and Vickie Shead are opening their farm next week for the community to view the organic homestead they have created.

All the Sheads will be helping on the day of the Organic Homestead Festival, including themselves, their adult children and their spouses, along with their 20 grandchildren.

The Organic Homestead Festival has several purposes.

“To share our family farm’s story-touring the farm, which will be laced with the history….to show our gardens, orchards, high tunnel, animals, bees and others, to supply ideas and information from what we learned in 43 years, to stir up interest in sustainable organic lifestyle, to sell products: produce, plants, kittens and poultry, to serve lunch for hungry people, to strengthen the community with other like-minded people and to sign-up for future classes,” Vickie said.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with single tickets-$5 or a family, $20.

A walking taco meal will be available for an additional $5.

Vickie Shead inside the high tunnel greenhouse on their farm.

To view a Shead YouTube on spring planting:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dk-j18Ox5Y

Education is an important part of the Shead farm. Pictured is a graphic depicting all parts of a carrot, with the plant featured below the graphic.
Part of organic farming is natural pesticides. Pictured is a praying mantis nest.
This old turkey was roaming free on the farm on May 7.
Beehives on the Shead farm.

There will be a SheadStead Market Store with fresh produce picked that day, veggie powders-which add nutrients to any meal, Guatemala sun hats, egg-gathering aprons, and herbal salves.

Vickie Shead demonstrates the egg apron’s usefulness. The aprons will be for sale on the day of the festival.

In addition, they will be selling some of their animals: peacocks, turkeys, chicks, ducklings, and kittens.

Poultry will be for sale at the Organic Homestead Festival.

“We have always been a farm where people would come to learn and help,” she said. “Now, we have seen an increase in people asking us for information on how to grow their own organic fruits and vegetables.”

Rows of vegetables on the Shead farm on May 7.

“Gardening and homestead-type living off the land are becoming very appealing to many because of the uncertainty of our future and the number of chemicals farmers are using,” Vickie said. “Many are asking if we will teach them…to plant, harvest and preserve, which includes canning, dehydrating, and freezing, as well as have one’s own meat and eggs.”

“There will be lots of fun for the whole family,” she said. “Questions and answers session on sustainable organic lifestyle..for adults.”

“In the children’s areas, they can…milk a cow and learn how to churn cream into butter, pet the animals in the petting yard, take pictures in photo cut-outs, hear a story about working on a farm, gather eggs…play educational games and meet Kernal Corn himself!” Vickie said.

A graphic of the Shead Farm.

The Shead farm is located at 2468 Cavalry, Garland, south of Fort Scott.

For more information:http://sheadfarm.com or 620.224.4149.

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott, Jobs

Center for Economic Growth: Focus on Health and Economic Stability

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Dacia Clark and Jody Hoener.

The group that set up an office on the second floor, above the Star Emporium Downtown General Store, 17 S. Main,  has changed the name, but not services.

 

 

“The partners that made up the Bourbon County Workforce and Entrepreneur Resource Center (BWERC) have decided to name ourselves The Center for Economic Growth,” Jody Hoener, director of the center, said. “We have the same space, model, operations, and services that were provided before.” The one exception is the Bourbon County Commission is not a part of the partnership, she said.

 

“Our mission is to increase access to physical activity and healthy food, promote tobacco cessation, enhance the quality of life and encourage economic growth,” she said.  “We wanted our program and name to tie directly to our mission.”

 

 

 

“The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team Board and our partners re-branded our collaborative efforts,” Hoener said.  “Our work to build healthy communities and address the social determinants continues, with health and economic stability as the focus of the center.”

 

 

“Specifically, we are working with community members and our partners on economic stability,” she said.

 

 

“Priority is given to those businesses owned by low-income, minority, female, or veteran,” she said. “Pittsburg State University Small Business Development Center uses the U.S. Small Business Administration small business definition…typically 500 employees or less with less than $5m in profit in a two-year period.”

 

 

Jody Hoener at her desk at the Center For Economic Growth, 17 S. Main, second floor.

 

 

 

“Poverty and low income are drivers of poor health,” Hoener said. ” Bourbon County is a rural community… with higher rates of poverty.  Our community has seen low investment and low upward mobility in employment.  We are working to create economic opportunities to generate wealth and income for Bourbon County residents.”

 

 

 

The partner organizations are the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce,  Fort Scott Community College, Kansas Works, Pittsburg State University’s Small Business Development Center, and  BAJA Investments.

 

 

Hoener’s work as the Bourbon County Economic Director ended in March

 

Continue reading Center for Economic Growth: Focus on Health and Economic Stability →

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Friday Night Concert Features The Hemphill Family

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Ralph Carlson introduces the Friday Night Concert musicians May 2019.

This Friday night, May 14th, the Chamber of Commerce Concert series at Heritage Park, will present The Hemphill Family and Friends Band. The group consists of Jack and Sandy Hemphill and their two adult children, Brad Hemphill and Kristen Weeks.

A granddaughter, Piper Weeks, will perform a song. In addition, Floyd Feezell (fee zel’), who is a crowd favorite, will join them for some songs.
The band plays old country songs, old-time rock, gospel, and country standards. Because of limited seating, please bring a lawn chair. The concert begins at 7 PM.

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

UMB Donates To CASA

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UMB Bank donates $2,000 from its community fund to support Bourbon County CASA. UMB is a proud sponsor and supporter of the local CASA program.
Bourbon County CASA, founded in May 1990, has provided advocates for over 900 local children who are victims of abuse and neglect. This would not be possible without the support of individuals and businesses such as UMB.
On Mother’s Day, we celebrated everything a mother does for her children. Mothers change their children’s diapers, fed them, teach them to walk, take them to school, protect them and so much more.
Sadly, not all children are so lucky to have a mother, or a mother figure, who can and will do these things for them.
When a child is placed in the state’s care because of evidence of abuse and neglect, a judge can appoint a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) to speak up for a child’s best interest by learning everything about the child’s situation. Often the CASA volunteer is the stability a child needs during this frightful time. CASA volunteers advocate for the child’s best interests in court and in the child welfare system when no one else can.
CASA volunteers are regular people — stay-at-home moms, retirees, teachers, business people. They don’t need to be lawyers or social workers. They just need to be willing to speak up for children in need just like a mother would for her child.
“CASA volunteers become that role model because they often are the one constant in a child’s life while he or she is in the foster care system,” said Horn.
You can help break the cycle of abuse from one generation to another. You can model what a good mother looks like by becoming a CASA volunteer or supporting Bourbon County CASA.
The next training class to become a CASA volunteer for Bourbon County CASA is spring 2022. More information can be found at nationalcasagal.org or by emailing [email protected].

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

UMB Bank Contributes $2000 toward The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team’s “Center for Economic Growth”

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The Center for Economic Growth (The Center) is giving individuals, living in a historically impoverished rural community, an opportunity for economic stability and wealth creation. Because of generous donations like these, critical services will continue to be provided to Bourbon County and City of Fort Scott residents and businesses free of charge. The Center provides expertise, business planning, financial projections, training and more with a focus on low to moderate-income, minority, woman-owned, or food-related business.
Economic stability represents an individual’s ability to access resources such as food, housing or healthcare, as well as creating a healthy business culture to help an employer attract and retain talent, reduce absenteeism and turnover, and improve productivity. “Since 2016, we have focused intently on our mission to enhance the quality of life and encourage economic growth in individuals,” Jody Hoener, President and CEO of The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, “Through this collaboration, we are increasing access to employment and entrepreneurship in a population that has lacked upward mobility in employment opportunities and access to capital.”
The Center for Economic Growth has an array of state, regional, and local partnerships that include: The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, PSU Small Business Development Center (PSU SBDC), Southeast KANSASWORKS, Fort Scott Community College, and BAJA Investments. “I am constantly impressed with how well each entity works together,” Dacia Clark, Assistant Director, PSU SBDC says, “This collaboration benefits our clients as a one-stop-shop for services. Because of The Center, Bourbon County is ahead of the pack and significantly contributing to our regional goals.” Through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas Grant, The Center has access to even more expertise and resources right at their fingertips.
According to Smart Growth America, in today’s world business growth is driven by collaboration among many types of entities, private companies, universities, and others, that must interact frequently and work together creatively. “UMB is excited to support the creative and innovative efforts of The Center for Economic Growth. We hope that our contribution will make a difference in the lives of individuals in our community.” Crystal Maddox, UMB Senior Vice President-Commercial Lender.
The Center is located in the Historic Downtown Fort Scott in the upstairs of 17 South Main Fort Scott KS. It is a “one-stop-shop” for business, employment, food, telework, and distance learning needs. Current businesses, and those looking to start a business, have a physical location to meet with a person. Additionally, services are available for those seeking employment, developing soft skills (i.e. interviewing), or other job-seeking assistance. Businesses are encouraged and welcome to contact Southeast KANSASWORKS to see how they can connect with those looking for employment.
An overview of services The Center provides Bourbon County:
• WORKERS & FAMILIES:
o Distance Learning and Telework Space
o Unemployment & Job Seeking Assistance
o Increasing Access to Healthy Food
o Building Capacity for Local Food Assistance
• ADDRESSING CHILDCARE:
o Relief in Fulfilling Educational Requirements for Centers
o Incentives for Becoming a Legal Childcare Provider
• BUSINESS TOOLS & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE:
o Getting Businesses Online via new Websites & Social Media
o Loans & Grants
o Special COVID Programs & Resources
Find us on social media! On Facebook, Instagram and Twitter #healthybbco
Background of The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team:
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team is a Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy
Kansas Community. Its mission is to increase access to healthy food and physical activity,
promote commercial tobacco cessation, enhance quality of life and encourage economic
growth. The problems of health inequity and social injustice are complex in nature and
inextricably linked to key economic indicators. A healthy workforce is a prerequisite for
economic success in any industry and in all cities.
Contact information:
Jody Hoener, President and CEO
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, Inc
620-215-5725
[email protected]
Mary Hunt, Interim Operations Director
Southeast KANSASWorks
Desk: 620-232-1222
Cell: 620-670-0006
Website: www.sekworks.org
Dacia Clark, Assistant Director, PSU SBDC
[email protected]
785-445-2537
Lindsay Madison, President and CEO, The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
[email protected]
(620) 223-3566

Bourbon County, Business

Union State Bank a Mainstay and Family Business for 120 Years

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Union State Bank, Uniontown. Courtesy photo.
Union State Bank, Fort Scott. Courtesy photo.

The Holt family started as bankers in Uniontown on May 10, 1901, with an investment of $5,000.

 

 

“The bank’s assets are around $60 million total,” said current Union State Bank President Bryan Holt. “That is an increase of about 20% over this time last year. There’s currently nearly $5 million in Tier 1 capital.”

 

 

For five generations they have served the banking needs of their community, starting with Emmit Holt, then his son, Curtis, then his son, Kent, then his son Kenny, then his son, Bryan. All these were in succession.

 

Emmit Holt, courtesy photo from Union State Bank.

 

Curtis Holt. Submitted photo.

Kent Holt, 89, remembers the first job at 12 years old.  He helped his parents, Curtis and Helen, where he could.

 

 

“One of my duties was the Address-o-Graph, that machine that addressed envelopes,” Kent said.

 

 

By that time in the early 1940s,  his mom and dad were the owners of the bank.

 

Kent Holt. Submitted photo.

 

 

Kent became president when his father died at 62 years old, he was 35 years old.

 

When he was the president he could do any job in the bank, he said. But through the years, the industry has become more complicated.

 

 

“The big change was computers coming to the bank,” he said. “it was slow coming in, and in stages. Then we had to hire more people.”

 

 

Kenny Holt was president and CEO of Union State Bank from 1993 until 2018 when he retired. He died in November 2019.

 

 

To view his story:

Baton Is Passed at Union State Bank

 

 

 

Fifth-generation president, Bryan Holt,  became president and CEO of Union State Bank on January 1, 2019.

Bryan Holt.

 

“I returned to the bank in 2005 after working for 10 years in the accounting and tax software industry,” Bryan said. “I had always wanted to work in the family business and was, and still am, grateful for the opportunity to do so.”

 

 

Changes that Bryan has seen in the banking industry also include technology.

 

 

“Most recently, the ability to conduct business via a mobile device has been a game-changer in terms of service,” Bryan said. “Our mobile banking app allows for users to deposit checks via their phone, which is extremely convenient. We’ve also added our debit cards to mobile wallets, which allow for payments via mobile phone. Personally, I didn’t see this as a great addition, but after I used it, I use it as often as I can.”

 

 

Through the years Kent’s wife, Marilyn, and sons, Kenny and his wife Nancy, and Randy and his wife Debbie, and daughter, Susan Eldridge,  worked at the bank, along with some of their children. Then grandsons, Bryan and Chad, and his wife Amy.

 

 

Daughter, Debbie Likely, chose to teach for her career.

 

 

“Holt family members currently working in the bank include Randy Holt, Susan Eldridge, Chad Holt, Amy Holt and myself.,” Bryan said. “Aiden Holt( Chad’s daughter) works part-time in Uniontown during the summer and Claire Holt (Bryan’s daughter) works as a part-time teller in Fort Scott.”

 

 

In 1992, the bank opened a branch in Fort Scott, just off Hwy. 69 and 12th Street.

 

 

“We have 16 full- and part-time employees between the two branches.,” Bryan said.

 

 

Kent Holt Remembers a Bigger Community

 

 

Like most small towns, the population of Uniontown has shrunk.

 

 

Uniontown Park, approximately the early 1900s. Courtesy of Union State Bank.
Union State Bank, the original building, in Uniontown, KS. Courtesy of Union State Bank.

Uniontown used to have more people, Kent Holt said.

 

 

He tried to remember all the businesses in town while he was working at the bank.

 

“Stroud’s Grocery Store, Griffith Elevator and Lumber, Bishard Grocery Store, there was an old folk’s home, Gates-the blacksmith,  several filling stations-Ira Steele’s was one, a barber shop-Raymond Mosier, telephone company, two doctors-Dr. Miller was one, a dentist, Arch Ramsey, we were the only bank in town,” Kent said.

 

 

Flora Klenklen was his secretary for several years, then Alice Ramsey.

 

 

Kent Holt said he just faded out, he didn’t really retire, and was a member of the bank’s board of directors until about five years ago.

 

 

See the latest about the bank on its’ Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

Sharing Our Stories

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Barbara Stockebrand. K-State Extension Agent. Submitted photo.

Maybe I’m just at that point in my life, but I always find it interesting when I get a chance to hear some of the personal stories of someone who has lived a full life. They are likely remembering back in their time. They are also sharing bits and pieces of what has molded their lives to be the person they are today.

All older adults have made their mark on their families, their communities, and beyond – whether they realize it or not. Just by the fact that they have lived life, they have had many trial and error and success experiences.

Older adults bring wisdom, experience and life history to younger adults’ perspectives on their future. Purposeful sharing and connections can be incredibly valuable to both of the individuals involved. We need to make time to visit with our older adult relatives and friends and encourage them to tell their stories.

Jumpstart those memories with questions, photos and portions of stories which you may already be aware. Let them fill in the blanks and the story behind the story.

Here are some questions to stimulate the stories:

— What kinds of toys and games did you play?

— What was your schooling like? You may learn their one-room school building had been moved from one location to another in the middle of the night as a result of a neighborhood feud.

— What were you paid for your first job?

— What was your favorite vacation spot?

— What would you like to tell your 22-year-old self?

— What do you think your 22-year-old-self would want to tell you?

— What are the best and worst pieces of advice you’ve received?

— What motivated you in life?

— What were some of the turning points in your life?

— Looking back, is there something you wish you had done that you did not?

— What are you most proud of?

These are samples of questions, and most will lead to many other questions and stories. Plan on several visits. Be sure to write them down or document them in some way to share with other family members and your younger generations.

Many countries revere their older adults where older age is honored and celebrated, and respect for elders is central to the family. Our western culture often depicts aging in a negative light. We have a lot to learn.

May is Older Americans Month. It’s a great reminder for all of us to find ways to celebrate the older adults in our own lives and communities.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer

Bourbon County, Schools

West Bourbon Elementary: A Music Program Following COVID-19 Protocols

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West Bourbon Elementary School Principal Vance Eden worked the soundboard, while WBE Music Teacher Rhonda Allen welcomes the audience to the spring program of kindergarten through third-grade students on May 3.

The music program for the performances.
Rhonda Allen has taught music for 39 years, with 30 of those at West Bourbon Elementary School in Uniontown.
“I teach pre-k through 6th-grade general music and junior high choir,” she said. “I also accompany the high school choir.”
Second-grade students enjoy their teachers Sheryl Fry and Brenda Gleason hamming it up during a performance.
But Monday’s kindergarten through third-grade spring music concert was not the normal spring concert at WBE.
It was held outside on the front porch of the school, with parents and the community invited to bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy the performances, because of the COVID 19 pandemic restrictions.
The audience brought lawn chairs and blankets to watch the performances.
The idea was born out of some recommendations and some experiences, Allen said.

“There were recommendations by the National Association of Music Education, that outside is a safer place to make music,” she said.

 

 

First-grade students perform.

 

 

Last fall the district had outside performances in the local park.

 

 

“We had an event held last fall in Uniontown City Park by the 4th and 5th grades, and the junior high and high school music and art students called Art in the Park,” Allen said.  “It was very successful.”

 

 

“And we knew, an outdoor venue would not require us to limit the audience for these young performers,” she said.  “An indoor program would be limited to four audience members per participant.”

 

 

At the end of each class performance, parents came to retrieve their students. They could then leave or stay for the entire concert.

 

So plans were made for the annual spring concert with fingers crossed and prayers to God for good weather.
“It was a delight to be able to have a spring program this year,” Allen said. ” At the beginning of the school year, performances seemed unlikely. We were very thankful that the rain held off!”
Third-grade students performed on the kazoo.

 

“I feel the outdoor venue was a success,” she said.  “Many seemed to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as they watched the kids perform.”
Allen feels performing music is important.
“Performance skills are an important part of the elementary music curriculum,” she said.  “I was grateful to be able to teach those skills in this unprecedented year.”
Kindergarten students perform
Covid impact on Music Education
“A study done in the summer of 2020 revealed the amount of aerosol, how Covid is spread, created while singing or playing an instrument was significantly higher,” Allen said.  “Music education was deeply impacted by this discovery.  Social distancing, masks, and bell covers on the ends of instruments were some of the protocols followed.”
“Until late February, I traveled to each classroom, teaching from a cart,” she said.  “This changed my curriculum and the activities I normally used to teach music concepts.  It was different, but it was doable. Though it was challenging, I learned new skills and had the opportunity to discover new, and sometimes better, ways to teach music skills.”

 

Bourbon County

Infrastructure! by Gregg Motley

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Greg Motley. President of the Bourbon County Economic Development Council. Submitted photo.

Gregg Motley is the chairman of the Bourbon County Economic Development Council.

As mentioned in previous columns, there is not much we can do about some megatrends; but, we can do the basic blocking and tackling to make our town more attractive and livable. We can’t lose sight of long-term investments in exchange for short-term gains. What is infrastructure? Congress has struggled with this definition lately. Here are my thoughts:

Roads and Sewers

Somehow, we quit maintaining these two critical features. I was involved in an exchange program, designed to send teams to a “sister city” and evaluate them on numerous criteria. Our partner was Independence, Kansas, and a small group of us took off for a stealth tour of the town. A few days later, a group from there toured Fort Scott. Their report on us? Overwhelmingly positive, except one category: roads. And, if they could have seen underground to examine our sewer system, that grade might have been worse. It cost five times more to repair/replace than to maintain. Yes, the catch up, and beginning proper maintenance might be painful in the short-term, but the price tag will be substantially more later.

Internet Access

In whatever form it comes, Internet access is becoming almost important as paved roads. It is critical to our businesses and schools, as well as desirable for every citizen in Bourbon County. We have to expand and improve this infrastructure, in whatever form it comes, to the far reaches of the county.

Downtowns

Studies show that outsiders judge the vitality of communities by their downtowns and central business districts. We have to pay attention to this aspect of every community in Bourbon County, and see what we can do to put our best foot forward.

Schools

What do working-age parents evaluate first in considering a move to a community? This is a no-brainer; continue to invest our collective time, talent, and treasure in the public and private schools in our county.

Recreation

Years ago, corporate site selectors paid little attention to recreational amenities when deciding where to locate; now it is critical. Younger people want something to do; some place healthy to “hang out”. Older people want amenities too, a place to connect around a recreational activity.

Faith Community/Charity

Is this infrastructure? Yes! How we create community, and how we respond to the most vulnerable among us is a quality of life issue that must be addressed. Most American’s are concerned about the poor, and want to live in communities that respond to these critical needs. We can’t ignore this factor when considering how to grow our communities and create quality of life for all. I am so glad for the success of the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation, our strong church community, and other charities that focus on meeting basic human needs.

Next week: Eleven common attributes of non-energy sector small towns that are bucking the trends, and continuing to grow.

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of April 20

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April 20, 2021                                        Tuesday 9:00 am

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners, the County Counselor and the County Clerk present.

 

Also present were the following: (some were present for a portion of the meeting and some were present for the entire meeting), Tammy Helm with the Fort Scott Tribune, representatives from SEK Multi County Health Department, Susan Bancroft, Scott Shelton, Anne Dare, Will Wallis, Mr. & Mrs. Clint Walker and Mark McCoy.

 

Clifton made a motion to approve the minutes from the two prior Commission meetings, Jim seconded and all approved and signed the minutes.

 

Eric presented three culvert permits for culverts that have been completed for Ron Hillard, Doug Adamson and Nick Leighty; Eric and the Commissioners signed the permits.  Jim made a motion to allow a culvert installation for Dale Simpson at 1947 Tomahawk Road, Clifton seconded and all approved.

 

Eric reported they received $1,145 for the scrap metal at the Landfill.

 

Eric said they had poured a portion of a new deck and will be pulling forms and will have the bridge at 60th & Grand open next Thursday.

 

They have been crushing at the Beth Quarry and have been in contact with Buckley Powder regarding a blast to remove the overburden at the Blake Quarry.

 

Eric said they will be moving the bulk fuel tank from the Bronson Fire Station to Uniontown for the grader operator’s use.

 

The K39 bridge has been closed for repairs and they are detouring traffic onto County roads; Eric said they are having to add more gravel and said he will document this for possible reimbursement from the State.

 

Windfarm – Eric said they are still capping the roads between 39 and 3 Highway.  He said they have had reports of wash boarding on the roads in the area.  He said there is a bridge deck deficiency on a bridge between 60th & Arrowhead and Birch; he said they may need to reroute traffic and not use this bridge.  Eric said there is an area near 20th & 39 going north that the Windfarm company might do work to the road in order to use the road.

 

Lynne thanked Eric for cutting the road at 95th & Range.

 

Eric said after they review the budget, he might discuss purchasing trucks and a mini excavator.

 

Eric said he would give the Commissioners the Schwab Eaton report on the bridge inspections done this year.

 

Lynne plans to ride with Eric to the Southeast Kansas regional meeting on Thursday in Yates Center.

 

Rebecca Johnson with the SEK Multi County Health Department met with the Commissioners (other representatives from the SEK Multi County Health Department were also present); she presented the following speech to the Commissioners: “Fifty years. The SEK Multi-County Health Department has been serving the residents of Bourbon County as their local health department for the last 50 years.

 

In 1971, after the health departments of Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Linn and Woodson Counties served as a health planning organization for the state, an agreement was signed by the counties, which formed the SEK Multi-County Health Department. The County Commissioners could see the benefit of the organization and how it saved their counties money and also allowed for a balance of perspectives from policymakers, medical professionals and the public.  Linn County has since left the multi-county health department, which has resulted in the 4-county configuration.

 

SEK Multi-County Health Department is made up of 4 county health departments, Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, and Woodson. We share 1 medical director, health officer/administrator, regional public health emergency preparedness coordinator, accountant, and billing clerk. Each office has at least 1 nurse and clerk. We have 1 home visitor that covers Allen and Anderson counties and 1 that covers Bourbon and Woodson counties. We also have a nurse that is the WIC coordinator and we have a dietician. We have hired a 2nd nurse in our Bourbon County office this last year who has assisted with our other county COVID-19 responsibilities as well. Due to efforts needed still for the pandemic, we have been able to maintain 3 temporary staff to assist where needed.

 

Public Health is a specialty all its own. Public Health has many more trainings that are required than the average healthcare job. Trainings range from disease investigation and control to FEMA and incident command, to vaccine for children program to packaging and shipping of dangerous goods. We have a wide range of knowledge and expertise in many different areas.

 

SEK Multi-County Health Department partners with many organizations and entities, in Bourbon County, the surrounding counties, our region and at the state level. We also have worked extensively with some organizations in Missouri over the last year. These partnerships and friendships have been very beneficial to us through the years and through this pandemic. We try to maintain a well-balanced give and take relationship with our partners.

 

The Bourbon County Health Department currently provides 67 types of services to the public, many of which are at no cost. These fall under family planning, KanBe Healthy Screenings, School Physicals, Immunizations, Adult Physicals, Blood Pressure and Blood Glucose Checks, Hearing and Vision Screenings, DCF referrals, MCH Home Visitor, breastfeeding education, STD testing and treatment, and lab draws. We travel to many off-site clinics to provide immunizations and physicals for children and adults. Many of our services are at times provided in client’s homes.

 

Other services provided, that are at no cost to the public and stand out are:

  • Disease investigations and contact tracing.
  • Health Officer services such as review of plans for schools and LTC facilities, recommendations related to isolation / quarantine, creation of isolation and quarantine orders, rabies investigations, review/investigation of nuisance calls and other public health hazards.
  • Provision of general medical, nutrition, immunization, etc information provided to all callers to the health department.
  • Technical assistance to medical / non-medical providers, schools, day cares, industries and other businesses related to PPE, preparedness planning, availability of COVID vaccinations.
  • Technical assistance to long-term care facilities related to PPE, preparedness planning, and review of COVID response plans,
  • Assistance to other county health departments during disasters
  • Review of mask usage in Bourbon County and mask distribution
  • Mommy & Me classes, breastfeeding support
  • Referral of clients to other providers such as smoking cessation, depression, birth spacing planning, hearing, dental, job sites, etc.
  • Management of supplies received from federal and other sources and transfer of those supplies — hand sanitizer, masks, gowns to local medical and school providers in need.
  • Education presentations for schools as well as being a member of the School Health Council, and participation in those meetings.
  • Educational presentations for long term care facilities on bloodborne pathogens.
  • On call 24/7 for public health emergencies-especially with the pandemic. Each superintendent has the Heath Officer’s personal number.
  • COVID-19 Recovery Drive. We applied for a grant and were able to have 2 recovery drives where we provided food and supplies to Bourbon County residents in need. We were blessed to partner with many businesses who helped make the recovery drives possible, such as Valu Merchandizers, G&W foods, Walmart, Dollar General and also several community members and community partners.
  • Health Fair participation.
  • Offer our conference room to local organizations, such as the LEPC for meetings, trainings such as Love and Logic parenting class and CPR.

 

January 2020, SEK Multi-County Health Department started planning for the impending pandemic by meeting with regional and local partners regarding information KDHE and CDC were issuing. We began studying, training and preparing for our role in the global pandemic. We began educating the public, by way of newspaper, internet, Facebook, radio, flyers and also participated in numerous educational/informational meetings with department heads of many different entities. KDHE provided guidance and support to the local health departments, as well as regulations for isolation and quarantine. That set the stage for the expectations for local health departments and SEK Multi-County Health Department has held strong to these regulations to pull our counties through this pandemic. We’ve worked with our schools, long term care facilities, businesses, colleges and community organizations, to list a few, on their mitigation and reopening plans, as well as contact tracing within their facilities. COVID-19 investigations and contact tracing took up most of our days for an extended period of time. Many times this had us working evenings, nights and weekends to make sure everyone’s needs were met. Our own family life was put on hold for about 9 months, as we dealt with COVID-19 related issues.

 

During the fall, in Bourbon County, we pushed through and administered 619 flu vaccines and did 21 off-site flu clinics. On December 7th, Bourbon County’s active case count rose to 152 active cases, a dramatic increase from prior to Thanksgiving. We were all exhausted by this point, but knew we had to keep going. Later in the fall we began preparing for mass vaccination clinics and what those would look like. We reached out to the Fort Scott city commissioners and staff, who helped us secure a site for these large clinics for Bourbon County. We were able to get many volunteers, businesses and community members who were willing to help us out. Because of all the volunteer work, partnerships we have and new ones we’ve formed over the last year, every COVID-19 vaccination clinic was a success and at no cost to the public.

 

SEK Multi-County Health Department wanted to ensure that our school staff were also being vaccinated, so we transferred 600 of our Moderna COVID-19 doses to CHC-SEK to vaccinate the school employees while we were vaccinating the health care workers and elderly. To date, SEK Multi-County Health Department has administered 2351 COVID-19 vaccines in Bourbon County. SEK Multi-County Health Department will continue providing until there is no longer a need.

 

On January 21st, Governor Laura Kelly recognized me as a Public Health Hero in Kansas. I do not consider myself a hero at all. I appreciate the recognition, but that tells me that my staff and I are doing something right. We’ve followed KDHE’s guidelines, state law and recommendations by our medical director. We’ve taken a more conservative approach to the pandemic and have seen less cases than other counties that did not. We have done the best that we could with what we were given and have managed to stay afloat and not given up, when many have.

 

If you do a comparison of funding for health departments across the state, SEK Multi-County Health Department asks for very little from Bourbon County. There have been talks of Bourbon County looking into contracting with an FQHC for public health. One county health department in Kansas is run by an FQHC, and that county provided approximately $666,000 this last year to the FQHC to run it. Looking at surrounding counties annual funding for health departments: Linn CO: 189,000; Crawford: 556,000; Franklin: 423,000; Coffey: 371,000; Cherokee: 108,000. Up until this last year, Bourbon County provided $80,750 per year to SEK Multi-County Health Department to provide public health services to Bourbon County. Our organization hadn’t seen an increase in 12 years, up until last year. Our staff are employed by our organization, we carry our own insurance, we own our own buildings, and apply for grants through KDHE that help aid our services we provide.

 

Bourbon County residents need a health department that have expertise in their field and prepared for public health situations as they arise, one they can count on for their children’s needs and family services and one they’ve come to trust for health-related questions and family support over the years.  Our 4 counties are stronger together and we’ve built Bourbon County Health Department to provide a sturdy leg to our organization. SEK Multi-County Health Department wishes to remain the Public Health Service Provider in Bourbon County. I cannot speak for the Commissioners of Allen, Anderson, or Woodson, but do know I have no outstanding complaints or issues that are holding them back from continuing on with SEK Multi-County Health Department as their county’s public health service provider.

 

Bourbon County Board of Commissioners, SEK Multi-County Health Department asks that you continue to allow us to be the public health service provider for Bourbon County. Look at how far we have come in 50 years!!  With your continued support, just think of how much more we can accomplish together for our residents of Bourbon County in the years to come!”

 

After her presentation, Clifton asked what the main thing they did prior to pre-pandemic was; Alice Maffet said all of the things that were listed in Rebecca’s speech.  Jim said he has heard from the public that they would like to see the Health Department open on Friday’s; Alice said have early and extended hours of 7:00 am – 5:30 pm Monday through Thursday.  Justin Meeks said the contract has been the same since 1971 and said if the County opted to not renew, then it would have to be done in May of 2021.  Lynne and Jim both said they didn’t think the County should change.

 

Scott Shelton met with the Commissioners regarding a variance on the County sanitation code; he lives in the Country Hills subdivision which is located north of Redfield outside of the city limits of Redfield.  He said in 1998 Redfield got a loan to get a sewer system and to install a pump station.  A 40-year contract was signed between the City of Redfield and the residents of the subdivision and part of the contracted stated the rates for the subdivision were to be the same as for the residents of the City of Redfield.  From 1998 – 2019 the rates were $18/month, in 2019 the sewer rates went to $30/month + $7.50 per person in the house, then the rates went to $36/month + $8.00 per person in the house for city residents and $44/month + $8.00 per person for residents in the subdivision.  In 2021 the rates were increased to $36.00/month + $8.00 per person in the house for residents living in the City of Redfield and to $51.70/month + $8.00 per person in the house for residents in the subdivision.  Scott said he questioned the City of Redfield what the reason was for the increase; he was told they increased the costs to pay the loan off faster as well as there was no money in the account to pay expenses and said they were behind on paying the loan – Scott said that USDA told him they were not behind on paying the loan and said the City later said during a City meeting that there was $20,000 in the account.  Scott questioned the different amounts being charged for the City residents vs. the subdivision residents and said he was told it costs more to operate the sewer for the subdivision than it does in town.  Scott said Redfield was in violation of the contract.  He said he as well as the City of Redfield have lawyers involved and said they are now at an impasse on the sewer rates.  He said now several residents of the subdivision would like to install septic systems, he said a contractor has said they can install the septic system, Scott has worked with the County Appraiser’s office and they told him as long as the County Commissioners say it is ok to install the system, he is ok with it.  Scott said the County sanitation code from 1998 says any resident within 400’ must connect to the sewer system and said the code requires a minimum of a one-acre area for a septic system.  Scott said some houses that want a septic system have a little under one acre and some have a little more than one acre.  Justin Meeks said he could address Scott’s legal counsel or the City of Redfield’s attorney about this issue and said the County Commissioners have no authority over the City of Redfield or the subdivision.  Justin said a KORA request could be filed with the City of Redfield for information.  Jim Harris said the County would need to work with KDHE regarding the requirements and to get the sanitation code changed.  Justin said they would need to look over the contract; Scott said he would provide a copy of the contract to them.  Jim made a motion to request Justin Meeks to get involved and review the contract, Clifton seconded and all approved.  Scott said that the County sanitation code does give the Commission the ability to grant exceptions.

 

Clifton made a motion to sign the Tri Valley agreement for services, Jim seconded and all approved and signed the agreement.

 

Lynne made a motion to transfer the operational portion of the BWERKS organization to BEDCO which includes the possession of the material assets, he said they would need to revisit this again on 12/31/2021, Jim seconded and all approved.

 

Lynne briefly discussed the KOMA training that the Commissioners participated in last week; he said the Commissioners are not required to televise the Commission meetings and said if people have a subject they want to discuss with the Commissioners, then they should schedule this on the agenda, Jim Harris agreed with this.  Lynne said if possible, people should be at the Commission meeting in person if they want to address the Commissioners.

 

Elected Officials Comment: Bill Martin and Ben Cole phoned into the Commission meeting, Bill said they had been awarded cars from seizures and said that the deputies have requested that the vehicles be used as undercover vehicles; Bill said he would contact KCAMP insurance to get the vehicles included with the fleet.  He said he would bring the cost to insure the vehicles to the Commissioners in a few weeks.

 

Justin Meeks discussed the tax sale, he said he will be sending petitions and summons to individuals and said he hopes to have a tax sale at the end of June.

Justin said APEX (windfarm) contacted him and said the County now has the $408,000 PILOT check; Susan Bancroft will work with Patty Love to get an account set up for this money.

Justin suggested putting on the agenda (scheduled for May 4th) a discussion over adding zoning to the November 2021 ballot.

 

Justin said he would start collecting data regarding population and valuation.

 

Susan Bancroft met with the Commissioners; she gave the Commissioners a 10-year recap of assessed valuation and mill levies for Bourbon County.  She said the Bourbon County audit is scheduled for the week of May 10th.  Susan will work with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton to do the audit.

 

Commissioner Comment: Jim said it was previously requested that he work with KDHE regarding the old landfill site, he presented a letter from Charles Bowers with KDHE which stated that construction at the site would be an alteration of the final cover and in accordance with Kansas Administrative Regulation (KAR) 28-29-6(b) require a permit modification application with a design and drawings sealed by a professional engineer licensed to practice in Kansas.  There is only a total of 24” of cover at the site.  Jim said the County would need to do a restrictive covenant for the site disposal area and would need to put this on file in the Register of Deeds office.

 

At 10: 15, 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

_________________, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Doretta Neville, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk

April 27, 2021, Approved Date