Category Archives: Bourbon County

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

Successful and wealthy vs. happy and healthy

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

If you were going to invest now in your future best self, where would you put your time and energy? Research has shown that most would answer this question with activities that would bring success and wealth. Our worldly pressures push us to work harder so we can achieve more to reach those successes to have a better life.

I would challenge you to think about successful and wealthy vs. happy and healthy. For over 75 years, The Harvard Study of Adult Development has tracked the lives of 724 men — following their work, their home lives, and their health. Sixty of the 724 still live with most of them in their 90’s.

One group of the men studied finished the Harvard college, and most of those went on to serve in World War II. The second group consisted of a group of boys from the poorest neighborhoods in Boston, specifically chosen because they were from some of the most disadvantaged families in that city in the 1930’s.

Whole families were interviewed at the beginning of the study. These men entered adulthood in all walks of life. Some climbed the social ladder all the way to the top. Some went the opposite direction.

Follow-up continues with the remaining men, with interviews taking place in their own homes with them individually and with their families, studying their medical records, and questioning their doctors. What they have discovered so far, is that having a good life doesn’t have anything to do with wealth or fame or working harder, but simply that good relationships keep us happier and healthier.

Here are three main lessons learned:

Firstly, social connections are really good for us, and loneliness stifles. Those more socially connected to family, friends, and their community are happier, healthier, and they live longer. Loneliness is toxic. They are less happy, their health declines earlier in mid-life, and their brain function declines sooner.

Secondly, the quality of close relationships matters. Living in the midst of conflict is bad for our health. Living in the midst of warm relationships is protective. When the men had been followed into their mid-80’s, a look-back into the two groups was done to see if at age 50, a prediction could be made as to how they would grow old. It wasn’t their mid-life cholesterol levels that forecasted how they were going to age, it was how satisfied they were in their relationships. Those most satisfied with their relationships at 50 were the healthiest at 80. Good relationships add a protective factor from other life crises.

Thirdly, good relationships protect our brains in addition to our bodies. Being in a securely attached relationship to another person in your 80’s — where one can really count on the other person in times of need, is protective. Memories stay sharper longer. Bickering aside, when things got tough, they knew they could still count on that other person, and those arguments would not take a toll on their memories.

This isn’t new information. We are human and all like a quick fix. However, relationships are built over time. They require dedication, can be complicated, and take work over a lifetime to achieve meaningful relationships.

In the study those that were happiest going into retirement were those that replaced their friends from the work place with new friends in retirement. What might that look like? Replace screen time or being holed up in your home environment with spending time with people. Doing something new together with your spouse or a special someone, or reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in years. Feuds take a toll on those who hold grudges.

While acquaintances and friendships of all kinds are important, meaningful relationships can provide an increased sense of satisfaction and well-being. For more information on relationship building, contact a Southwind District Extension Office with locations in Erie, Fort Scott, Iola and Yates Center.

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

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

K-State Ag Meetings Offered

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Dale Lanham. Submitted photo.

The Southwind Extension District will host a free information meeting on Old World Bluestem at the Bressner Hall on the Woodson County Fairgrounds on February 16, 2022 at 2:30 p.m..

Old World Bluestems are a group of introduced grasses into the United States in the late 1920’s as improved grasses.  While these grasses are called bluestems they are not closely related to Big Bluestem or Little Bluestem.  Old World Bluestem are survivors of centuries of overgrazing.  They are drought tolerant, aggressive, and prolific seed producers which sounds great until you add they are unpalatable to livestock in relation to our desired native grasses.  They can become invasive anytime our natives species are stressed.

Dr. Walt Fick, Kansas State University Range Specialist, will discuss identification and control of Old World Bluestem.  Also on the program will be Jarrod McVey, Woodson County Noxious Weed Director, discussing ways his department can help you with your noxious weed problems.

 Beef/cow/calf Risk Management

The Southwind Extension District will be hosting Beef Cow/Calf Risk Management meeting on February  23, 2022 , at 5:30 at two locations.  This is a hands-on evening workshop that will teach principles of determining cost of production for a cow/calf operation.  Learn strategies for cattle marketing, and insurance products for price risk management.  Participants will work with a case farm to apply these topics to a real-world cattle operation.  The goal is for participants to acquire risk management skills they can apply directly to their own operations.

Registration fee is $15, payable that night.  To guarantee a meal and informational packet call the Southwind Extension in Yates Center 620-625-8620 to register.

The Iola location is at the Southwind Extension Office at 1006 N. State Street in Iola.  Fort Scott location is at Healthy Bourbon County Action Team Office at 104 N. National Ave in Fort Scott.   Dinner will start at 5:30 pm with the program starting at 6:00.  Program is scheduled to end at 8:30 pm

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Bourbon County

Prom Dress Event Rescheduled Due to Storm

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Due to winter storm and parking conditions the prom dress  event has been rescheduled for Feb 19th.  Please share with our Ft. Scott/Bourbon County residents.
This event is being rescheduled for February 19th.
Location, registration and selling times will remain the same.
The organizers have been on site today and the ice, snow and drifting in the parking areas are not favorable for the amount of vehicle traffic and parking that is expected with this event.
We apologize for the inconvenience of a re-schedule but we want this to be a positive experience for everyone, seller and buyer.
Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Feb. 8

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: February 8, 2022
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District-Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
• Mowing & Snow Removal Bids for Medical Building
• County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
▫ Ascension Via Christi 1 year Lease Agreement Renewal
▫ State Setoff Agreement
• Public Comment
• Elected Officials 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.

Attachments:

22.02.08 Ascension Via Christi 1 Year Lease Renewal(1)

22.02.08 State Setoff Agreement

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Government

More City Personnel Needed

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From Bing,com

The City of Fort Scott is like other employers nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic, they have many positions to fill to be fully staffed.

The financial director position is one.

Last year, Susan Bancroft was hired as the Bourbon County Financial Director and also the Human Resource Director, in addition to her position as the City of Fort Scott Financial Director to combine services between the city and the county.

She has since given her resignation notice to the City of Fort Scott but has remained part-time financial director until a replacement can be found there, she said in an email.

“We are looking at applicants (for this position) and will be interviewing over the next couple of weeks,” Fort Scott’s Human Resource Director Brad Matkin said.

According to the City of Fort Scott website, the summary of the position is as follows: http://www.fscity.org/173/Job-Openings

“Under the general supervision of the City Manager, the Director of Finance performs financial reports, payroll, and retirement records; assists in the preparation of the city budget; monitors city revenues and expenditures and maintains all related records; supervises personnel in performing related accounting, utility billing systems, and clerical work”.

Matkin said some recently hired new city employees are Erica Mahder, dispatch; Melanie Enloe, dispatch; Tyler Cook, Woodland Hills Golf Course Groundsman, and Garret Rash, street sweeper.

Currently there are two unfilled vacancies at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, two in the public works department, one to two police officers, one to two firemen and Emergency Medical Services personnel and one to two paramedics, Matkin said.

To apply for these positions http://fscity.org

“We will continue to utilize social media, our website, a weekly radio broadcast, and word of mouth,” to fill these vacancies, he said.

 

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Meeting of Jan. 10

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The Regular Council Meeting on January 10, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 5:30 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Tyler Travis, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Oath of Office was administered to newly elected officials. President of Council was elected.

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0-1 (Ervin abstained) to elect Jess Ervin as President of Council

CITIZENS REQUEST

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger presented the December Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $348,223.56, Receipts $68,673.96, Transfers Out $35,022.42, Expenditures $58,131.60, Checking Account Closing Balance $323,743.50. Bank Statement Balance $335,330.57, including Checking Account Interest of $28.96, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $11,587.07, Reconciled Balance $323,743.50. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,038.92, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,538.88, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,323.63, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $400,644.93. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $369.71, and Utility CDs $323.27 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $692.98. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of December 2021, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. December Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.00, Capital Improvements $1,000, Capital Improvement-Streets $250, and General Fund $2,000, from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00, Capital Improvements $1,000, Capital Improvement-Streets $750, Security Meter Deposit $0.14, and General Fund $3,000, from Gas Fund to Capital Improvements $3,000, Capital Improvement-Streets $12,500, Security Meter Deposit $0.28, and General Fund $3,000, from General Fund to Capital Improvements $3,000 and Capital Improvement-Street $2,500, Total Transfers of $35,022.42. Net Loss for the month of December $24,480.06, Year-to-Date Net Loss $77,354.97. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $117,090.65 (117.3%), Expenditures $113,960.87 (92.1%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $37,924.19 (109.1%), Expenditures $39,925.02 (91.5%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $149,077.20 (115.4%), Expenditures $292,421.16 (88.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $148,684.70 (129.9%), Expenditures $157,586.80 (96.0%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $9,287.36 (155.3%), Expenditures $13,736.60 (91.9%). The January 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $21,547.42 were presented.

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of December 14, 2021 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
  • Resolution 2022-0110-1 – 2022 GAAP Waiver
  • Destruction of records for 2011 and prior

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

The sewer main servicing Tyler Travis’ at 204 Second St sewer line is blocked by roots. Superintendent Rich received some quotes to cut out the roots, from Meyer Specialty, Wichita, at $450/hr and Ace Pipe Cleaning, Kansas City, at $300/hr. Also roots in main near 304 Washington St. Replacing the main with pvc at 204 Second St is out of the question due to the proximity of electric pole in the dig area and property owners garage (excavator will not attempt). It was suggested to look into using ARPA funds to pay for this.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to contract Ace Pipe Cleaning to clean roots out of sewer mains near 204 Second St and also near 304 Washington.

Rich reported that the tractor has been repaired. Councilman Stewart volunteered to haul to/from the mechanic in Colony. Mechanic cost was substantially less than PrairieLand Partners.

Trees have been planted at park and pond.

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan started discussion on ordinances for storage containers, storage/accessory buildings. Mayor Jurgensen spoke to owner of 112B Second St and 103 Fifth St. They will sell 112B Second Street to the City for $1,000. Mayor and owner discussed that 103 Fifth St needs cleaned up. A letter needs to be sent to initiate cleanup. Cleanup completion date was discussed. Discussion concerning the purchase of 112B ensued. This property adjoins the Kite property the City recently acquired.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to purchase Lot 58 less west 8’, Block 11, Original town, Uniontown, Bourbon County, KS commonly known as 112B Second St

Clerk Johnson reminded Council that Local Government Day at the Capitol is January 26, 2022, and to let her know if she needed to register anyone or get lodging for them.

Communities in Schools is hosting “Mental Illness-The Silent Epidemic with Coach Potter” on January 17, 6:30PM at West Bourbon Elementary

Reminded Council of the Health in All Policies Learning Session on January 19, 2022, 5:00-8:00PM at Healthy Bourbon County Action Team office.

KRWA Delegate –

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to designate Bobby Rich as Delegate and Josh Hartman as Alternate Delegate for KRWA

She has registered for an ARPA Overview zoom on January 25 through CCMFOA.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – She has been asked by someone on Bronson City County to have someone from Uniontown City Council to attend county commission meeting to have Maple Road resurfaced from Bronson to Uniontown.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to have Amber Kelly attend county commission meetings to get Maple Road resurfaced from Bronson to Uniontown

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

OLD BUSINESS

Traffic control on several streets – streets and locations were discussed.

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-1 (Stewart) to purchase and install five sets of speed bumps and four signs with two sets on Hill St and three sets on Fulton St

Dog/Cat Ordinance and amendments review – after discussion, it was recommended to amend ordinance to include $100 fee per animal for non-compliance of number of animals allowed and animal(s) must be removed from city limits within 30 days or fee assessed again. Clerk Johnson will check with attorney and bring amended ordinance to next meeting.

Wholesale water supply – Councilman Hartman has been in communication with Bourbon County RWD #4 but the length of pipe to connect has not been determined. Councilman Ervin has been in communication with Rob Harrington, Bourbon County REDI, to facilitate a meeting between him, as a representative of City of Uniontown, and City of Fort Scott regarding rates.

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to have Jess Ervin represent the City of Uniontown at meeting(s) with the City of Fort Scott and Bourbon County Consolidated Rural Water District #2 negotiating water rates

Pond Improvement Project – no update. The walkway east rail is welded on the east side and tacked on the west side.

City Utility Low-Interest Loan update – Interest rate for 2022 did not change, still 0.25%. Clerk Johnson plans to send yearly statements by the end of January.

American Rescue Plan Act update – Clerk Johnson will attend another zoom on ARPA on January 19. Final Rule has been released.

NEW BUSINESS

Street Repair – Mayor Jurgensen has spoken with County Commissioner Oharah about hiring the county to asphalt some of the streets in town this summer. As of December 31, there is $106,517.50 in the Capital Improvement-Streets fund. We might be able to asphalt about a mile of streets. Communication will continue with County on their willingness to work with us. The damage to the streets by the three different trash companies was discussed. It was suggested to have Clerk Johnson to check into citywide trash hauling to limit the number trash trucks on our streets.

Moved by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 7:39PM

Bourbon County, Government

City of Uniontown Agenda for  Feb. 8

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City of Uniontown Agenda for  Feb. 8

CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by

ROLL CALL:

___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Bradley Stewart

Motion by ________________, Second by _____________________, Approved ________ to recess into executive session pursuant to the nonelected personnel matters exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1) in order to discuss performance of nonelected personnel, the open meeting to resume at____________.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

CITIZENS REQUESTS

Nancy Holt

FINANCIAL REPORT

Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

A. Minutes of January 10, 2022 Regular Council Meeting

B. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent: Bobby Rich

KRWA Conference-March 29-31, Wichita

Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan

Shipping/Storage Containers, Accessory/Storage Buildings, Fences regulations

Clerk Report: Sally Johnson

HBCAT Placemaking Pledge –

Court Clerk’s Spring Conference – March 4, Wichita

CCMFOA Spring Conference – March 16-18, Manhattan

KSGFOA membership

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilwoman Esslinger –

Councilman Hartman –

Councilwoman Kelly –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

OLD BUSINESS

Dog/Cat Ordinance and amendments review –

Wholesale water supply –

Pond Improvement Project –

City Utility Low-Interest Loan update –

American Rescue Plan Act update–

Street Repair –

NEW BUSINESS

ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________

Ordinance under consideration:

CITY OF UNIONTOWN

PO BOX 51

UNONTOWN, KS 66779

ORDINANCE NO. 196

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 174 RELATING TO THE KEEPING OF DOGS AND CATS WITHIN THE CITY OF UNIONTOWN AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLIC SAFETY BY REQUIRING ALL DOGS AND CATS KEPT WITHIN THE CITY OF UNIONTOWN TO BE REGISTERED AND VACCINATED FOR RABIES.

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF UNIONTOWN, KANSAS:

SECTION 1. Add Section 2 as follows:

PERMITTED DOGS AND CATS; FEE

  1. Any household knowingly own or harbor more than three adult dogs and/or three adult cats will be assessed a fee of $100 and the animal(s) will have to be removed from the city limits within thirty (30) days of notification of assessed fee. If animal(s) is not removed fee will be re-assessed every 30 days until number of animals in household comply.

 

  1. Notification can be delivered in person or sent by certified mail, return receipt.

SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance shall take effect and be in force after its passage and publication in the official city newspaper.

Passed and approved this 15th day of February, 2022.

___________________________

Larry Jurgensen, Mayor

ATTEST:

________________________________

Sally Johnson, City Clerk

Attachments are below:

0222 Inforamtional Items

2022 Financials-January

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Draft Minutes of the Jan. 10 Meeting

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The Regular Council Meeting on January 10, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 5:30 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Tyler Travis, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Oath of Office was administered to newly elected officials. President of Council was elected.

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0-1 (Ervin abstained) to elect Jess Ervin as President of Council

CITIZENS REQUEST

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger presented the December Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $348,223.56, Receipts $68,673.96, Transfers Out $35,022.42, Expenditures $58,131.60, Checking Account Closing Balance $323,743.50. Bank Statement Balance $335,330.57, including Checking Account Interest of $28.96, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $11,587.07, Reconciled Balance $323,743.50. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,038.92, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,538.88, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,323.63, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $400,644.93. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $369.71, and Utility CDs $323.27 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $692.98. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of December 2021, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. December Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.00, Capital Improvements $1,000, Capital Improvement-Streets $250, and General Fund $2,000, from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00, Capital Improvements $1,000, Capital Improvement-Streets $750, Security Meter Deposit $0.14, and General Fund $3,000, from Gas Fund to Capital Improvements $3,000, Capital Improvement-Streets $12,500, Security Meter Deposit $0.28, and General Fund $3,000, from General Fund to Capital Improvements $3,000 and Capital Improvement-Street $2,500, Total Transfers of $35,022.42. Net Loss for the month of December $24,480.06, Year-to-Date Net Loss $77,354.97. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $117,090.65 (117.3%), Expenditures $113,960.87 (92.1%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $37,924.19 (109.1%), Expenditures $39,925.02 (91.5%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $149,077.20 (115.4%), Expenditures $292,421.16 (88.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $148,684.70 (129.9%), Expenditures $157,586.80 (96.0%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $9,287.36 (155.3%), Expenditures $13,736.60 (91.9%). The January 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $21,547.42 were presented.

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of December 14, 2021 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
  • Resolution 2022-0110-1 – 2022 GAAP Waiver
  • Destruction of records for 2011 and prior

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

The sewer main servicing Tyler Travis’ at 204 Second St sewer line is blocked by roots. Superintendent Rich received some quotes to cut out the roots, from Meyer Specialty, Wichita, at $450/hr and Ace Pipe Cleaning, Kansas City, at $300/hr. Also roots in main near 304 Washington St. Replacing the main with pvc at 204 Second St is out of the question due to the proximity of electric pole in the dig area and property owners garage (excavator will not attempt). It was suggested to look into using ARPA funds to pay for this.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to contract Ace Pipe Cleaning to clean roots out of sewer mains near 204 Second St and also near 304 Washington.

Rich reported that the tractor has been repaired. Councilman Stewart volunteered to haul to/from the mechanic in Colony. Mechanic cost was substantially less than PrairieLand Partners.

Trees have been planted at park and pond.

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan started discussion on ordinances for storage containers, storage/accessory buildings. Mayor Jurgensen spoke to owner of 112B Second St and 103 Fifth St. They will sell 112B Second Street to the City for $1,000. Mayor and owner discussed that 103 Fifth St needs cleaned up. A letter needs to be sent to initiate cleanup. Cleanup completion date was discussed. Discussion concerning the purchase of 112B ensued. This property adjoins the Kite property the City recently acquired.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to purchase Lot 58 less west 8’, Block 11, Original town, Uniontown, Bourbon County, KS commonly known as 112B Second St

Clerk Johnson reminded Council that Local Government Day at the Capitol is January 26, 2022, and to let her know if she needed to register anyone or get lodging for them.

Communities in Schools is hosting “Mental Illness-The Silent Epidemic with Coach Potter” on January 17, 6:30PM at West Bourbon Elementary

Reminded Council of the Health in All Policies Learning Session on January 19, 2022, 5:00-8:00PM at Healthy Bourbon County Action Team office.

KRWA Delegate –

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to designate Bobby Rich as Delegate and Josh Hartman as Alternate Delegate for KRWA

She has registered for an ARPA Overview zoom on January 25 through CCMFOA.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – She has been asked by someone on Bronson City County to have someone from Uniontown City Council to attend county commission meeting to have Maple Road resurfaced from Bronson to Uniontown.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to have Amber Kelly attend county commission meetings to get Maple Road resurfaced from Bronson to Uniontown

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

OLD BUSINESS

Traffic control on several streets – streets and locations were discussed.

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-1 (Stewart) to purchase and install five sets of speed bumps and four signs with two sets on Hill St and three sets on Fulton St

Dog/Cat Ordinance and amendments review – after discussion, it was recommended to amend ordinance to include $100 fee per animal for non-compliance of number of animals allowed and animal(s) must be removed from city limits within 30 days or fee assessed again. Clerk Johnson will check with attorney and bring amended ordinance to next meeting.

Wholesale water supply – Councilman Hartman has been in communication with Bourbon County RWD #4 but the length of pipe to connect has not been determined. Councilman Ervin has been in communication with Rob Harrington, Bourbon County REDI, to facilitate a meeting between him, as a representative of City of Uniontown, and City of Fort Scott regarding rates.

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to have Jess Ervin represent the City of Uniontown at meeting(s) with the City of Fort Scott and Bourbon County Consolidated Rural Water District #2 negotiating water rates

Pond Improvement Project – no update. The walkway east rail is welded on the east side and tacked on the west side.

City Utility Low-Interest Loan update – Interest rate for 2022 did not change, still 0.25%. Clerk Johnson plans to send yearly statements by the end of January.

American Rescue Plan Act update – Clerk Johnson will attend another zoom on ARPA on January 19. Final Rule has been released.

NEW BUSINESS

Street Repair – Mayor Jurgensen has spoken with County Commissioner Oharah about hiring the county to asphalt some of the streets in town this summer. As of December 31, there is $106,517.50 in the Capital Improvement-Streets fund. We might be able to asphalt about a mile of streets. Communication will continue with County on their willingness to work with us. The damage to the streets by the three different trash companies was discussed. It was suggested to have Clerk Johnson to check into citywide trash hauling to limit the number trash trucks on our streets.

Moved by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 7:39PM

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

Big Sugar Lumber: Change of Ownership

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The Big Sugar Lumber staff, front from left: Tim Culbertson-contractor sales, Jim Fewins-general manager, Janice Fewins-accounting. Back row from left: Jeff Dollarhyde-yard man and driver, Kristin Bishop-floor manager, Tyler Travis-logistics manager and Stihl products, Cade Goodridge-yard man, and Daniel Harney, assistant manager.

Big Sugar Lumber had a change of ownership on Dec. 31, 2021.

With the retirement of  Matt Noll as a business partner, Jim Fewins is now the sole owner of the local lumber materials store in Fort Scott.

“He had been a business partner for several years and wanted to retire,” Fewins said. “We appreciate Matt’s working here over the years and wish him well in his retirement.”

The lumber yard is a member of the international building materials dealer Do It Best cooperative, he said.

“We are proud to be your local lumberyard,” Fewins said.

Among the store’s offerings are lumber, hardware, paint, windows, and roofing supplies.

They have a delivery service available for their products and are also a United Parcel Service drop-off point in Fort Scott.

The store personnel are working to expand the inventory: “more lumber, commodity products (plywood and OSB’s) and more niche items,” Fewins said.  And they are re-merchandising the items on the shelves to be more accessible.

Jim Fewins, the owner of Big Sugar Lumber, stands in front of a newly re-merchandized shelf in the store.

There is a new hospitality area in the store, where one can sit in a chair and have a cup of coffee at a table. This is located to the left of the sales desk, near the rear of the store.

“We’ll have contractor meetings in this area,” he said. “A place to have a cup of coffee and sit down.”

Daniel Harney, the assistant manager, said they are working to increase inventory and maintain it to have what people need.

“Customer service is a high priority, that sets up apart,” he said. “And we are a local lumber yard.”

“Every small town needs a really good lumbar yard,” Kristin Bishop, the floor manager said. “We want to provide that for Bourbon County. We are proud to be your local lumber yard.”

Fewins said new staff will be “working on making sure we have all our bases covered correctly.”

Big Sugar Lumber has a quick turnaround on items not in the store.

Do It Best Warehouse has 87,000 items, which can be ordered through the Big Sugar Lumber Merchandise Catalogue on a Monday and be in the Fort Scott store by Wednesday, Fewins said.

“And there is no charge to the consumer,” he said.

 

History of the Big Sugar Lumber Store

Original business partners Ed Graham, Sid Colwell, Jim Fewins, and Matt Noll started Big Sugar Lumber in March 1983 in Mound City.

“We came to Fort Scott in 1984,” Fewins said. “We owned both stores and had a third one in Garnett in 1988. It closed in the early 2000s.”

The facility is located at 1005 S. Clark, near the junction of 12th Street and Hwy. 69. The store phone number is 620-223-5279.

Find them also on their Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

Focus on Heart Health This Valentine’s Day

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By Clara Wicoff

Southwind Extension District

Did you know February is American Heart Month? With Valentine’s Day approaching, it’s the perfect time to be thinking about heart health! Here are some heart-related items to keep in mind.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. This is also true for the state of Kansas, where heart disease leads all causes of death. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help to prevent heart disease. Two of these choices include eating a healthy diet and being physically active. The former is essential because poor dietary quality is the top risk factor for heart disease, accounting for approximately half of heart disease deaths worldwide. The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association have identified several diet recommendations related to heart health. This includes following a diet which emphasizes eating vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole grains, and fish. They also recommend choosing foods lower in sodium and cholesterol, replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats (like cooking with vegetable oil instead of butter), and avoiding sweetened beverages.

In addition to eating a heart-healthy diet, being physically active is also key to promoting heart health. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. These guidelines also recommend doing muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week. However, if this is more than you can do right now, focus on doing what you can. Even just five minutes of physical activity can have health benefits!

There are many tools out there which can help you to make healthy choices regarding diet and exercise, including MyPlate, the Nutrition Facts label, and more. Learning how to use these tools to improve your health and potentially reduce your health care costs will be the focus of a free class I am teaching at the LaHarpe City Hall on Saturday, February 26th at 1 PM. For more information about this class and other steps you can take to prevent heart disease, please contact me at [email protected] or 620-365-2242.

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Knights of Columbus Continue Tradition of Support

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Tri-Valley Developmental Services in located at 4305 Campbell Drive in Fort Scott’s Industrial Park.

The Fort Scott Knights of Columbus Council #796 continue to show their support for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) served by Tri-Valley Developmental Services. Council #796 donated $537.87 raised during the 2021 Tootsie Roll Drive to Tri-Valley. This donation will help support client services and actively assist our neighbors with I/DD in their pursuit of community inclusion. The donation is appreciated by everyone associated with Tri-Valley.

Submitted by : Tricia Campbell

Special Projects Coordinator

Tri-Valley Developmental Services

Bourbon County, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, COVID-19

Government Makes Free N95 Masks Available

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A sign on the door of a Bourbon County clinic states a mask must be worn.

The Biden Administration announced on Jan. 19 that N95 masks will be available to the public from the government’s Strategic National Stockpile, which has more than 750 million of the protective masks on hand, according to Free N95 masks: Biden administration plans to give away 400M masks | AP News. The masks will be available for pickup at pharmacies and community health centers across the country.

Currently, Walmart Fort Scott has the N95 masks for distribution, according to a call to their pharmacy on Feb. 1.

Walmart Fort Scott, 2500 S. Main.

A spokeswoman for Fort Scott Walgreens Pharmacy on Jan. 31 said their location will not be allocated these free masks.

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas Fort Scott clinic will have them available on Feb. 4.

“We received five pallets of masks Friday,” Krista Postai, CEO of Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, said. “There is a limit of three per person per the guidance we received.”

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd.

“We received a shipment of 20,000 Honeywell adult masks Friday evening,” Robert Poole, CHC  Communication and Marketing Director, Pittsburg, Kansas, said. “We are in the process of getting those redistributed to our clinics.  They should be available to pick up in all of our clinics by (this) Friday.

To view the latest statistics of COVID in Kansas: https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas

To view the particulars of the mask: https://www.honeywellstore.com/store/products/molded-cup-n95-face-mask-respirators-dc300n95.htm

Free N95 masks were to be available to pick up at local pharmacies and community health center sites across the country.

Every person is allowed up to 3 free masks, pending availability.

Wearing a mask is a critical way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, according  to https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/masks/index.html

Masks and respirators, when worn consistently and correctly, are effective at reducing the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that one wear the most protective mask that one can and that it fits well over your nose, mouth, and chin.