Stewart Davenport, Violin; Dr. Karen Fremar, Foundation President; Juni Fisher, Voice/Theatre at Fort Scott High School.
The Fremar Foundation has awarded its 2026 scholarship grants to include several area high school graduating seniors. Dr. Karen Fremar, foundation president, recently presented the $1,000 awards, foundation medals, honor cords, and certificates to 5 outstanding musicians and artists. These extraordinary student musicians and artists are scholastically ranked at the top of their graduating classes. Awards are competitive and are granted after review of taped auditions and portfolio presentations by the foundation’s scholarship committee, comprised of professional musicians from the Kansas City area. Awardees may also receive invitations to be featured performers or exhibitors at the foundation’s future public concerts and events.
Scholarships awarded to Fort Scott High School students included, Stewart Davenport, violin, who will attend Kansas University; and Juni Fisher, voice/theatre, who will attend Pittsburg State University.
Dr. Karen Fremar, Uniontown High School Art Teacher Chris Wood and Jewell Endictott. Submitted photos.
Fremar Foundation President’s Awards were awarded to Jewel Endicott, artist from Uniontown High School, headed to Kansas State University; Alex Brady, flutist from St. James Academy, at Kansas University; and Talya Banwart, vocalist from the private music studio of Pat Harry and senior from Christian Learning Center, who is headed to Fort Scott Community College and Pittsburg State University.
Dr. Karen Fremar with Alex Brady, flutist from St. James Academy, will be heading to Kansas University at a concert in Leanwood, KS.
The Fremar Foundation is a charitable non-profit that recognizes outstanding accomplishments in music and the arts by graduating high school seniors. Since its inception in 2010, the foundation has awarded thousands in grants primarily to musicians and artists in the Fort Scott area. Former Fort Scott residents and musicians Mayson Lane, Julie Gettler Silfverberg, and Dr. Karen Fremar serve on the foundation’s board together with Kansas Citians Melody Stroth, Dee Sligar, and director emeritus Larry McMullen.
From left Pat Harry, private voice coach; Taly Banwart, vocalist, from Christian Learning Center with Dr. Karen Fremar. Submitted photos.
Commissioner Gregg Motley pointed out that the commission had been using attorneys in addition to county counselor Bob Johnson for legal opinions, which is costing the tax payers more money. He said that while he did approve the spending of the $4,500 on other attorney fees, the commission should “be cognizant of taxpayer dollars,” and use Johnson, as he is on retainer for that purpose.
Baker Tilly
Matt Lawn and Ben Hart from Baker Tilly addressed the commission about the budgeting process.
Motley brought up to Hart that Baker Tilly hadn’t shared the budget instructions that were given to the various departments within the county with the commission directly.
Hart apologized and said that he had understood that the commission has discussed goals, but it was not made clear to him that they have not agreed on them.
“These instructions really revolve around what the commission’s goals are in limitation to property tax revenue,” he explained.
Milburn-Kee said she reviewed the video of the last meeting where the commission discussed their goals and she is still of the opinion that she wants to lower property taxes.
Hart said he needs input from the entire commission, as they must have consensus to move forward.
Motley said his objection to the instructions given to county departments by Sam Lawn of Baker Tilly does not pertain to revenue but restricts “the department heads and elected officials from having input into their budget.”
He said that those instructions were not agreed to by the commission and they should be removed, as the commission has not reached consensus revenue or expense.
The bullet points in question state that wages, salaries, employee benefits costs will be prepared by Baker Tilly and departments should not modify personnel costs, and that the total of the 2027 budget request should not exceed the total shown in the 2026 budget column.
Allen expressed a desire to efficiently work on the basics the county should provide. He said they should keep taxes a low as possible and still be able to succeed as a county.
Hart read through the entirity of the budget instructions that Baker Tilly gave to county departments, pointing out that there was a place to explain in the notes about any changes department heads and elected officials needed to make. He emphasized that this part of the budget making process is an information gathering stage to be able to paint a complete picture for the commission.
Tran summarized his notes from the work session about county goals earlier this year. He said that Milburn-Kee wants to cut 10% off of everything, lowering the mill levy again. Motley said his priority is to restore trust tot he employees, the public, and financial markets to the county can get bonding sources. Allen echoed Motley. Beerbower wants to reduce property taxes by 155 and re-balance services. Tran said his priority is to stay revenue neutral. He also said that the commission did a good job with their budget last year and justified their expenditures.
Tran supported Hart’s statements that Baker Tilly is collecting information to present to the commission through this budget process.
Motley pointed out that county managers and elected officials were seeing a repeat of last year’s budget with no raises and a cut in benefits.
“I could have clarified,” said Lawn. “The instructions could have clarified more. I tried to separate out personnel costs and say not to worry about that because that would be for a later discussion.”
Motley said Lawn had no way of knowing the sensitivities in the county at the time.
Lawn said they need budget questionnaires back from the departments by the end of the month.
Motley said that explaining the situation to the department heads and elected officials should help address their concerns and get the process going again.
Milburn-Kee said that the commissioners need to be clear about what they are looking at doing with taxpayer dollars. She asked Tran to share his perspective.
Tran advised Lawn to collect the information they need and not change the questions. He said he’d rather have too much information than not enough.
Milburn began questioning the commission about their positions on taxes.
SEK Multi-County Health Department Budget Request – Rebecca Johnson: Administrator and Health Officer for the Bourbon County Health Department.
Johnson brought the health department’s yearly funding request. There was no increase last year.
2025 was a really rough year for the health department. They rely on federal and state grants, many of which were cut. Johnson said the health department is asking for a cost of living increase of 2.8% for a total of $93,291. They are currently operating at the minimum required staffing amount.
Further reductions in funding would affect accessibility and cause delays in services, as they’ve already cut personnel as far as possible.
They document animal bite reports, offer breastfeeding support, disease investigations, immunizations, lab draws, and local emergency preparedness work. They also facilitate WIC for Bourbon County.
Tran asked how much WIC has been cut by the federal government.
Bourbon County provides about 6% of the health department’s budget.
Johnson asked to be included in communication from Matt Lawn with Baker Tilly on budget information.
Department Updates EMS Equipment Request – Teri Hulsey
A computer that Stronghold has come to repare and a few times and is not working properly needs to be replaced. The computer is used daily for paramedics and EMTs to do their reports. Stronghold quoted $1407.88 for a new computer. Hulsey did some research to compare costs.
She asked if the county could buy the department a new computer using the county’s equipment fund, as she has no money in her budget for the purchase.
Milburn-Kee asked if they could use one of the mini-PCs that the county already has. “Whatever works,” answered Hulsey.
Tran agreed with the idea of using computers that the county already has. He offered to talk to Stronghold about how to get that working for the EMS department.
Public Comments
Anne Dare read a statement about her disappointment with the county regarding recent discussions on contracted services. She pointed out failings of the HR firm and PayEntry and questioned continued expenditures on technology required by Stronghold. She suggested that the commission’s efforts to lower the mill will result in a planned reduction of services. She asked that the commission put a fair and consistent policy in place for hiring services and called for an acknowledgment of the appearance of unequal treatment on the part of the commission.
Tran interrupted her statement to tell her her time was up.
Bob Reed: came on behalf of the fair board
Rodeo will be June 24-25 and Fair Week is July 11-17th.
They are seeking individual sponsorship for the fair board and rodeo. Historically, the fair board has asked for sponsorship for elected officials and those running for office. Sponsorship will lead to recognition on the handbill and during the event.
Old Business Hidden Valley Roads – Allen
Commissioner Joe Allen was contacted by Kaety Bowers about the condition of the roads. Kenny Allen, Public Works Director, discussed the load of work it would be to add the entire neighborhood to his crew’s rotation.
Tran asked Kenny Allen to come up with a plan. Allen then asked if there was a resolution in place to address the situation of working an HOA. He didn’t think working the whole neighborhood was feasible, but possibly the main road, and that the county could help if the neighborhood could supply the rock. Allen said he would consult with an employee who used to grade it and see what he thinks.
Auction Update – Allen
The majority of the items to be sold or gotten rid of have been moved.
There are quite a few toilets and sinks still in the EMS building.
Milburn-Kee moved to give Joe Allen the authority to auction it off. Motion carried.
New Business Solid Waste Plan – K Allen
It’s time for the annual update of the five-year plan. The only change from last year is that they are no longer taking beans.
The commission approved and signed the plan.
Allen said his department laid 572 tons of asphalt at Osage and 215th. There’s a small spot remaining. When it’s finished, next will be Maple.
Hale Fireworks Permit
To sell at 2325 S. Main. Permit approved.
Jarred Gilmore Phillips 2026 Audit Engagement
This is the regular audit that is done every year. Motion approved.
Commission Comments
Allen addressed Milburn-Kee’s comment she made during the budget discussion about dancing around questions.
Milburn-Kee said the commission needs to start engaging the public about the budget.
There’s no meeting scheduled for Memorial Day, May 25.
A recall petition has been formally filed against Bourbon County Commissioner Samuel Tran, and Bourbon County Attorney James Crux has found the petition meets the legal requirements to begin collecting signatures that can lead to the recall process. This article looks at the petition, who filed it, the grounds for recall, the applicable laws, and what happens next.
The recall committee is made up of three Bourbon County residents:
Lynne D. Oharah — Uniontown, KS
Clinton L. Walker — Mapleton, KS
Rachel S. Walker — Mapleton, KS
The petition was filed with the Office of the Secretary of State, Elections Division, using the standard Kansas “Petition For Recall of Elected Official” form (K.S.A. 25-4320, K.S.A. 25-4322).
Grounds for Recall
The petition alleges “Failure to perform duties prescribed by law” and makes the following specific claims:
K.S.A. 79-2934, Kansas budget law, states that no money in any fund shall be used to pay for any indebtedness created in excess of the total amount of the adopted budget of expenditures for such fund.
On December 15, 2025, during a regular business meeting, Commissioner Tran stated he would not be available to attend any budget hearing to amend the budget after the ten-day publication requirement.
The petition alleges Tran failed to perform the duties prescribed by law to make himself available to amend known violations of budget law for Bourbon County, creating a budget violation.
This budget violation was cited in the 2025 audit presented on May 4, 2026.
The petition states that these actions and omissions demonstrate a failure to perform official duties as prescribed by law and constitute sufficient grounds for recall under Kansas Statutes.
County Attorney’s Review
In a letter dated May 11, 2026, County Attorney James Crux reviewed the petition and found it meets all statutory requirements under K.S.A. 25-4320. Those requirements include the name and office of the official, grounds for recall described in less than 200 words, a statement that petition signers are registered electors, the name and address of the recall committee, the warning required by K.S.A. 25-4321, and a statement that a list of authorized petition circulators is on file with the County Election Officer.
Crux noted that under K.S.A. 25-4322, it is the duty of the County Attorney to determine the sufficiency of a recall petition. He found that the description of the alleged failure does indeed describe a failure to perform the required duties of a County Commissioner. However, the letter also notes that the truth or falsity of the grounds must still be determined by the electorate, not the County Attorney.
Signature Needed Still Being Determined
In an email on May 15, 2026, County Clerk Susan Walker stated that due to the uniqueness of Commissioner Tran’s appointment and the fact that he switched between districts, the Secretary of State is working on a ruling for the number of signatures that must be obtained. The Clerk indicated she would follow up as soon as a determination is made.
Under Kansas law (K.S.A. 25-4322), once the petition is found sufficient, the recall committee has 90 days to gather the required number of verified signatures from registered voters in the election district before the petition can proceed to a recall election.
Other Active Recall Petitions
Commissioner Tran is not the only Bourbon County official currently facing a recall petition. A separate recall petition was recently filed against County Clerk Susan Walker, alleging failure to perform duties related to ballot errors during the 2025 General Election. That petition was filed by a different recall committee made up of Kyle R. Parks, Kevin Wagner, and Lyle K. Owenby.
Residents interested in the legal process for recalls may be interested in these links:
K.S.A. 25-4301 et seq. — General provisions governing recall of local officials in Kansas
K.S.A. 25-4320 — Requirements for the content of a recall petition
K.S.A. 25-4321 — Warning required on the petition regarding the penalty for fraudulent signatures
K.S.A. 25-4322 — County Attorney’s duty to determine sufficiency; 90-day signature-gathering period
K.S.A. 25-4325 — Affidavit requirement for petition circulators
K.S.A. 79-2934 — Kansas budget law (cited as the statute allegedly violated)
This is a developing story. FortScott.biz will continue to publish updates as more information becomes available, including the required number of signatures once the Secretary of State issues a ruling.
This event is an opportunity to hear the latest updates, learn more about the progress and future direction of the college, and stay connected with what is happening at FSCC.
Fort Scott Community College is conducting an Economic Impact Study to better understand its role in the area’s economy, workforce, infrastructure, and community well-being.
Community feedback is an important part of this process. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and help FSCC better identify, share, and strengthen its impact across the region.
Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda & Packet Summary
At 4:30, there will be a special meeting with the Attorney General’s office for KOMA training for the commissioners, followed by the regular meeting at 5:30.
7. Approval of Accounts Payable (05.15.26) – $363,496.33
8. Approval of Tax Corrections
9. SEK Multi-County Health Department Budget Request – Rebecca Johnson
10. Department Updates
EMS Equipment Request – Teri Hulsey
11. Public Comments
12. Old Business
Hidden Valley Roads – Allen
Auction Update – Allen
13. New Business
Solid Waste Plan – K Allen
Hale Fireworks Permit
Jarred Gilmore Phillips 2026 Audit Engagement
14. Future Agenda Topics
15. Commission Comments
16. Adjournment
II. Detailed Information Packet Summary
Meeting Minutes Summary (Pages 2–6)
Meeting Details: Official record of the prior Bourbon County Commission meeting held on May 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM at 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. (Page 2)
Agenda Modifications: Commissioner Beerbower requested swapping items VIII and IX so that a resolution could be addressed before payroll and accounts payable discussions. The agenda was approved 5-0 as amended. (Page 2)
Tax & Accounts Payable Approvals: Tax corrections were approved 5-0. Accounts payable from May 8, 2026, totaling $457,015.06, were approved 5-0. Minutes from the May 4, 2026, meeting were approved 5-0. (Pages 2–3)
Public Comment (Meals on Wheels): Michael Hoyt addressed the commission regarding federal defunding of the Area Agency on Aging (AAA). He noted that the Pittsburg-headquartered program is frozen to new home meal delivery requests, impacting local elderly constituents, and urged the county and city to consider funding solutions during upcoming budget sessions. (Page 3)
Resolution 22-26: Introduced by Commissioner Beerbower following a prior consensus during a work session. It was adopted with a 3-2 vote (Commissioners Beerbower, Motley, and Allen voting in favor; Commissioners Milburn-Kee and Tran voting against). (Page 3)
Check-Signing Authority Dispute: County Attorney James Crux addressed a lack of communication that caused late employee payments due to Commissioner Tran’s surprise refusal to sign routine checks. Commissioner Tran clarified that state statutes only mandate signatures from the treasurer and clerk, not commissioners. To resolve the logjam, Commissioner Tran moved to authorize Commissioner Allen to sign accounts payable checks. This passed 5-0, though Commissioner Allen noted he cannot sign until formally added to the bank signature cards by the treasurer. (Pages 3–4, 5)
Clerk Payroll System Access Dispute: Commissioner Motley moved to restore read-only access to the pay entry system (SecureView) for the County Clerk so she could generate general ledger entries. Commissioner Milburn-Kee objected, citing employee privacy and PII concerns (such as hire dates). The Clerk stated that summary files provided by an intermediary assistant lacked necessary cost-center breakdowns and Excel formatting. The motion failed 2-3 (Motley and Allen in favor; Milburn-Kee, Tran, and Beerbower opposed). It was suggested to invite the system representative, Mr. Cohen, to a future meeting to investigate custom restricted profiles. (Pages 4–5)
Commission Comments: Commissioner Allen congratulated 2026 graduates. Commissioner Milburn-Kee suggested ordering an annual signature disc for checks to match regular rotations in the commission chairmanship, noting Linn County follows this practice. (Page 5)
Open Invoices By Department Summary (Pages 7–17 & Pages 27–35)
An itemized breakdown of the Grand Total: $363,496.33 in open invoices scheduled for approval.
Department 00 – Non-Departmental / Clearing Accounts (Pages 7–11, 17, 33): Net total of $218,993.36, primarily consisting of employee benefit clearings, insurance accounts, withholdings, and cost clearings across multiple funds including:
General Fund: -$1,286.98 (Page 7)
Appraisers: $7,347.76 (Page 8)
County Treasurer Motor Fund: $3,189.16 (Page 9)
Diversion Application Fee Fund: $64.66 (Page 9)
Election Fund: $2,885.50 (Page 9)
Employee Benefit Fund: $35,222.73 (Page 10)
Rod-Tech Fund: $509.05 (Page 10)
Landfill Fund: $5,626.37 (Page 11)
County Sheriff/Correctional Fund: $76,306.32 (Page 13)
Department 01 – County Commission (Pages 18, 33): $9,768.78 (Includes $4,500.00 for legal services rendered through 3.31.26 by Fisher, Patterson, Sayler & Smith LLP and $5,195.42 in commission wages).
Department 02 – County Clerk (Pages 19, 33): $4,386.70 (Includes $4,230.94 in clerk wages, travel toll fees, and copier readings).
Department 03 – County Treasurer (Pages 20, 34): $4,807.71 (Includes $4,787.73 in treasurer wages).
Department 04 – County Attorney (Pages 21, 34): $10,356.08 (Includes $10,254.39 in attorney wages and office/water supplies).
Department 05 – County Register of Deeds (Pages 22, 34): $5,010.14 (Includes $4,948.49 in register wages).
Department 07 – Courthouse Maintenance (Pages 23, 34): $3,145.68 (Includes $2,866.00 in maintenance building wages and $240.00 for security locking bars).
Department 08 – County Coroner (Pages 24, 34): $50.00 (Report of death fee from Forensic Medical).
Department 10 – District Court (Pages 25, 34): $5,615.33 (Includes legal conflict representation from John A. Villamaria for $1,302.24 and $652.80, court mileage reimbursements, interpreter translation services, and $1,847.34 in court wages).
Department 11 – Emergency Preparedness (Pages 26, 34): $1,361.40 (Includes $769.23 in wages, vehicle maintenance, and home show supplies/giveaways).
Department 18 – Juvenile Detention (Pages 27, 34): $11,377.00 (Consists of an $11,194.00 monthly detention fee to the SEK Regional Juvenile Detention Center alongside inmate medical bills).
Department 24 – Ambulance Service (Pages 28, 35): $45,621.00 (Includes $33,659.94 in ambulance service wages, emergency vehicle repairs to EMS 7 by BOFS, Inc. totaling $6,181.34 and $3,362.40, and $1,013.07 for medical/valve equipment from Hamilton Medical).
Department 30 – Noxious Weed (Pages 29, 35): $12,715.10 (Primarily chemical supplies from Van Diest Supply Company for $10,193.60 and $2,521.50).
Department 43 – Courthouse General (Pages 30, 35): $22,295.74 (Includes a $15,625.00 tax sale report fee to Security 1st Title, $4,554.00 for 2026 SEKRPC membership dues, and $300.00 to CIC for a signature file programming set up).
Department 44 – Human Resources (Pages 31, 35): $4,300.00 (Monthly custom HR support package from HR Solutions on Call, LLC).
Department 99 – County Miscellaneous (Pages 32, 35): $3,692.31 (County Counselor wages).
SEK Multi-County Health Department Budget Request (Page 36)
Funding Proposal: Letter from Rebecca Johnson (BSN, RN, Administrator & Local Health Officer) outlining the 2027 funding request of $93,291. This represents a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment over the 2026 approved funding allocation of $90,750.
Justification: The increase is sought to preserve skeletal staffing levels and core programs, such as immunizations, WIC, disease control, maternal/child care, and emergency preparedness. Johnson warns that alternative budget reductions will delay services and worsen recruitment/retention hurdles.
Solid Waste Plan Amendment (Page 37)
KDHE Communication: Draft letter dated May 14, 2026, directed to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Bureau of Waste Management regarding updates to the Bourbon County Transfer Station operations.
Plan Changes: Section 2: D 1 is revised to indicate that soybeans are no longer accepted at the transfer station.
Committee Adjustments: Public Works Director Kenny Allen replaces Dustin Hall on the committee. Commissioners Joe Allen and Greg Motley are formally added as committee members.
Fireworks Permit Request (Pages 38–41)
License Details: Form 2026-001 authorizing Hale Fireworks, LLC to sell fireworks seasonally at 2523 S Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. The permit fee is $75.00 and carries an expiration date of July 7, 2026. (Page 38)
Application Data: Hand-signed application by Mitch Hale (Owner) listing the corporate address out of Buffalo, MO, and naming Sandy Kueck as the primary contact person. (Pages 39–40)
Financial Receipt: Treasury receipt #44076 issued by Treasurer Jennifer Hawkins confirming the $75.00 payment cleared into the county General Fund on May 6, 2026. (Page 41)
External Audit Engagement Agreement (Pages 42–47)
Engagement Terms: Agreement letter from CPA firm Jarred, Gilmore & Phillips, PA to audit the Bourbon County regulatory-basis financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2026. (Page 42)
Scope & Standards: The audit will conform to Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS) in the US and includes testing compliance with supplementary schedules, internal controls, and looking for risks surrounding management override or improper revenue recognition. (Pages 42–44)
Fee Structure: The standard hourly billing rates plus out-of-pocket expenses are capped at a maximum proposed fee of $29,500.00. If federal expenditures push past $1,000,000.00, triggering a mandated Single Audit Act procedure, an additional estimated fee of $2,900.00 will apply. Neil L. Phillips, CPA, is designated as the supervising engagement partner. (Page 46)
The work session began on time without Commissioner Samuel Tran or Mika Milburn-Kee present.
Tran came in while Commissioner David Beerbower was reading the introduction of the resolution aloud.
“The purpose of this resolution is to restore employees’ years of service for vacation and sick leave to their appropriate pre-2026 levels, correcting errors identified during a personnel audit. The resolution further provides updated vacation and sick leave policies that strengthen workforce support, simplify administration and ensure equitable treatment of all full time eligible county employees,” read Beerbower.
Commissioner Gregg Motley pointed out that despite the commission approving pre-2026 numbers for all employee vacation and sick leave, the current payroll clerk is using numbers from Jan. 14, 2026 and needs to be instructed to go back to Dec. 31, 2025.
One change that Beerbower made from the previous versions of the resolution was to remove the vacation time bank. He said that prior to 2026, there was no vacation carryover and that carryover is not a widely practiced policy among other employers. He said that those with carryover vacation at this time will be grandfathered in, but carryover will not happen going forward.
Beerbower said that the Kansas Wage Act calls vacation time earnings and the resolution has the county paying employees for their unused vacation time at the end of the year. County Clerk Susan Walker said that this may cause inflated budget numbers for the 2027.
Beerbower said he tried to keep the policy similar to the historic policies of vacation and sick leave accrual.
He said that the Kansas Wage Act says that if the county frontload vacation, vacation not used by Dec. 31 must be paid as wages. He also mentioned that if county employees were to abuse the system, the solution would be to remove the option of vacation for county employees altogether, since it’s not required by the law.
Sick Leave
Beerbower cut sick leave from 12 days to 10 days in the initial draft of the resolution based on national averages for sick leave.
Motley said he was in favor of less change and advocated for going back to 12 days, as many employees came onto the job with that expectation.
Beerbower asked Tran his opinion.
“It’s your show,” replied Tran.
“It’s not a show. That’s disrespectful,” said Motley.
Beerbower said he would change it back to 12 days of sick leave. Many county officials and department heads in the room thanked him.
The sick leave section had a grandfather clause for all employees hired before Jan. 1, 2026 to keep whatever leave they have already accumulated.
County Attorney James Crux said that the vacation and sick leave scale is very low for his office compared to other counties in the region. He said it’s very difficult to fill positions in his office.
Allen asked what smaller counties in the region offer their county attorneys for leave. Crawford county offers 96 hours of sick leave per year to their attorneys, said Crux.
Motley asked it if could be split for more highly educated hires, such as attorneys.
The EMS director spoke up and shared the leave offered to EMS workers in Miami County.
Beerbower gave a couple of examples of increased vacation leave times to see if it would be possible to get the county into a more competitive position with other employers in the area.
After a 90 day introductory period, new county employees will begin accruing 8 hours of vacation per month with rollover benefits from year to year. Once an employee has been with the county for 2 years, at the beginning of the following fiscal year, accrued leave disappears and vacation days based on the number of years the employee has worked for the count will be front loaded on Jan. 1.
One employee asked how long the resolution would be in effect before it’s voted out, if it was approved. Tran asked why he thought it would be voted out.
The employee cited the turmoil at the commissioners’ table and throughout the courthouse and county as reasons it may be overturned.
“I have no intention of reversing anything,” he said. It would be a bad move for him to make.
Tri-Valley Purchases Diabetic Training Tool Thanks To Rita J. Bicknell Women’s Health Fund
Thanks to a grant from the Rita J. Bicknell Women’s Health Fund Circle of Friends, Tri-Valley Developmental Services was able to purchase diabetic training kits, which will provide Tri-Valley staff with first-hand experience to enhance their competency in diabetes care.
“Tri-Valley is grateful to the Rita J. Bicknell Women’s Health Fund Circle of Friends and the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas for enabling us to purchase these training kits. We are now able to provide our staff with hands-on training for proper diabetes care for the individuals we serve. By providing a more practical training, staff can become comfortable with administering insulin.” said Bill Fiscus, CEO. “This hands-on practical training would not have been positive without the support given to us by both the Community Foundation and the Rita J. Bicknell Circle of Friends Committee. Thank you.”
The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas hosts individual charitable funds created by donors who have a passion for giving back to their community. Grants from these funds assist people throughout Southeast Kansas and beyond. Call CFSEK at 620-231-8897 with questions about the Community foundation.
Bourbon County is now utilizing the Genasys ALERT notification system to provide residents with emergency notifications and important public safety information.
Bourbon County will transition away from the current CodeRED alert system effective May 31, 2026. Residents currently receiving CodeRED notifications will need to register for Genasys ALERT, as contact information from the CodeRED system will not transfer to the new platform.
The system will be used to notify residents about incidents that may affect safety, including severe weather, floods, wildfires, gas leaks, power outages, evacuation or shelter-in-place orders, active threats, and other emergencies. Bourbon County may also use the system to provide information regarding road closures and traffic impacts related to public events such as parades, festivals, and community celebrations.
Genasys ALERT is a multi-channel communication platform that delivers notifications through phone calls, text messages, and email.
Residents are encouraged to register at:
bourboncountyks.genasys.com/portal
Users can customize how they receive alerts, add multiple phone numbers and email addresses, enter important locations, and choose the types of notifications they wish to receive.
To help ensure alerts are received properly, residents are encouraged to save the following contacts:
Receiving timely and accurate information during an emergency is extremely important. Bourbon County Emergency Management encourages all residents to register and keep their contact information updated so they can receive alerts and important community notifications.
Additional information and frequently asked questions are available on the Genasys ALERT login page.
This is a new system for Bourbon County, and officials ask for the public’s patience as final details are worked through and the transition from CodeRED is completed.
For more information, contact:
Bourbon County Emergency Management
Phone: 620-215-6316
Email: [email protected]
Approval of Minutes (April 22nd and April 27th) (Page 1)
New Business (Page 1)
Comprehensive Plan Interviews (Page 1)
Public Comment (Page 1)
Next Meeting and Agenda Planning (Page 1)
Adjournment (Page 1)
Detailed Section Summaries
Administrative Approvals The committee will begin by formalizing the meeting structure. This includes the standard Pledge and Roll Call, followed by the formal approval of the current agenda. Additionally, the committee will review and approve minutes from two previous sessions held on April 22nd and April 27th to ensure historical accuracy of the records. (Page 1)
Comprehensive Plan Interviews A significant portion of the “New Business” segment is dedicated to interviews regarding the County’s Comprehensive Plan. This represents a critical step in the long-term strategic development and zoning oversight for Bourbon County. (Page 1)
Public Engagement & Future Planning The meeting provides a designated window for Public Comment, allowing residents to voice concerns or support regarding planning initiatives. Before adjournment, the committee will establish the timeline and primary objectives for the next scheduled meeting. (Page 1)
Administrative Procedures The meeting will open with the standard ceremonial and administrative protocols. This includes the Pledge of Allegiance and a formal Roll Call to establish a quorum. Following these steps, the committee will review and officially approve the agenda for the May 14th session. (Page 1)
Comprehensive Plan Development A primary focus of this session’s “New Business” involves the Comprehensive Plan Interview. This is a vital component of the county’s long-term planning strategy, likely involving discussions or candidate evaluations aimed at shaping future land use and community development goals. (Page 1)
Community Input and Future Scheduling As part of the committee’s commitment to transparency, a Public Comment period is scheduled to allow citizens to address the board directly. Prior to the meeting’s adjournment, the committee will coordinate the schedule and primary agenda items for the next upcoming meeting to ensure continuity in planning efforts. (Page 1)
Welcome: 11 members from ten agencies attended the meeting in the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.
Coalition Board News: There is an open seat on the Coalition Board. Reach out to Nick if you are interested.
Member Introductions and Announcements:
Lora Wilson shared about what she does for CHCSEK.
Airrick Lee was here from Neosho County Community College with a program called R.S.V.P.- Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
Shelby Moore with FAST -Families Together shared about the different ways her program benefits children and families.
Patty Simpson with Fort Scott Housing Authority shared that they were accepting applications.
Stephanie Breckenridge-Strengthening Families with the Family Resource Center, Her program offers help with resources and Parenting Skills.
Star Culp-Parents As Teachers from Greenbush, has openings in her program in BBCO
Kelli Mengarelli-Early Childhood Block Grant with the Family Resource Center shares about delivering books for preschoolers going to kindergarten.
Janelle Tate the Transitions Coordinator in six counties with the Early Childhood Block Grant.
Craig Campbell-GNAT Good Neighbor Action Team, this program offers assistance for single moms, and the elderly. They have currently been building wheelchair ramps for those in need in Bourbon County. A future project is to paint park benches at Schubitz Plaza. This group has also been able to help with gas line break assistance. They are currently working on a recycling program starting, working with Vernon County.
Theresa Amershek – Safe House Children’s Director
Cheri Walrod from Credo Senior Living brought flyers about the Virtual Dementia Tour they are having during their Senior Care Coalition Luncheon on May 20.
Program:
Jennifer Gum-Fowler our librarian from the Fort Scott Library came to tell us about the programs that are currently happening at the library. She shared a little history about the building which is a Carnegie building, and our library is one of the oldest in Kansas still using the original building.
They received an ALA Grant for $20,000.00 and have partnered with Mental Health to purchase sensory toys and products for neurodiverse adults, teens and children to assist with their sensory needs. They include a Shush Booth, Sensory Table, Light Table, Bean pods to read in, and Toys for therapists.
The Library has had a make over including:
-an adult space upstairs for computers, telehealth, and interviews.
-A Teen space, tv, play station, study area, including two laptops.
The Childrens Program has moved downstairs, with hard and soft play places to include a
zero to three soft area, with a charging space for parents, and a Lego wall .
The Summer Reading Program has started, see the Youth Services flyer
The library has been pairing with Lowell Milken Center offering a great program including a Dig Crew bag
They offer adult reading BINGO with great prizes
They offer hand designed t-shirts that are available with Dig Crew
Golden Aces for 55+, enjoy arts and crafts.
They partnered with DAR for the 250th Celebration.
Road Scholars flyer
They are participating in The National Treasure Duck Hunt, with other community businesses.
Chamber Guide Books are available at the library for free.
The library is a source for various resources available in our community and nationwide. Jennifer is connected to the Library’s National and State committees allowing her to pull in resources and information nationwide.
Benefits of having a library card go beyond just books off the shelf it also grants us access to
Audio Books
Kanopy app which includes Sesame Street, Between the Lions videos free.
Information services
Assist with families in need.
WiFi 24/7
Open to Community Service Volunteers
Jennifer is very excited to share her knowledge and resources with the Fort Scott community, feel free to stop by and see all of their progress and programming. If you need something, the library is a great place to start.
Open Forum: Nothing further came before the coalition.
During Public Comments, Michael Hoyt addressed the commission about the Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging headquartered in Pittsburg. They are responsible for Meals on Wheels to the aged. They are hurting for funds and are not accepting new applicants for meals right now.
Hoyt said they have been defunded by the federal government. He asked that the commission keep that in mind when they discuss the county budget. He also said that 65% of the constituents in Bourbon County are over 65.
AAA provides a lot of other services for the elderly in addition to Meals on Wheels.
Resolution 22-26 – Beerbower
Commissioner David Beerbower moved to adopt the resolution “as discussed and consensus reached in the work session” that the commission held just prior to their regular meeting. Commissioner Gregg Motley seconded.
Motion carried with Commissioners Mika Milburn-Kee and Samuel Tran voting against.
Tran acknowledged Beerbower’s good work on the resolution.
Payroll & Accounts Payable – Motley
James Krux, County Attorney, addressed the board regarding issues with accounts payable.
Lack of communication between the board and other offices in the county has created financial issues. “We have to be able, as a county, to continue operating and to continue growing,” he said, “And at least work together enough to make sure that’s happening.”
Tran refused to sign the checks as they had been done previously which directly affects Crux’s office. His employees have been paid late two pay periods in a row.
Motley asked what it will take to get those checks signed. He said the county is incurring late fees because of the failure of the commission to sign the checks. He and Commissioner Joe Allen are not on the signature card and cannot sign the checks.
Tran said he has spoken to four lawyers and claims to understand the statutes. The statutes don’t require commissioner’s oversight to sign checks, according to Tran. The treasurer signs them when she cuts them and the clerk attests to them by signing, which gives the two requisite signatures.
“I understand the angst here, I do,” said Tran. “What do you propose?” he asked the commissioners.
Allen said he doesn’t know where this problem came from, as it’s been standard practice for years for the county commission chairman to sign the checks. He said he offered to sign them so that people can get paid, “but I don’t believe it’s my position to sign the checks.”
He confirmed that the whole commission reviews and approves the checks. “I just don’t understand why the chairman can’t sign them to get them moving along,” said Allen.
Tran said that because the statue doesn’t require him to sign the checks, he has chosen not to.
He proposed that he relinquish his ability to sign the checks and make Laura Krom, the commission’s executive assistant, the official signer.
Milburn-Kee said that the chairman should have a signature stamp so he doesn’t have to sign 200 checks. Tran said he had asked for one but has not received it.
Allen said he preferred a commissioner sign the checks.
Tran immediately moved to make Allen the check signer. Motley said that the statutes allow the chairman to appoint someone to sign for him, and he approved of that person being Allen.
Allen said that “if it gets people paid,” he’s willing to do it to keep the county moving forward.
Motley next made a motion to restore read-only access to Payentry for County Clerk Susan Walker so that she can process the accounting entries that she needs to every two weeks after payroll.
Milburn-Kee said that read-only access gives the clerk access to too many reports she doesn’t need.
Tran said he hasn’t told the executive assistant or Payentry what to do, but has advised Krom to talk to HR and Payentry to figure out what to do. He said to let Krom know what’s needed so she can handle it.
“That’s not my motion,” said Motley. He asked why there needs to be an intermediary between Payentry and the clerk, noting that Krom does not understand what’s required for the payroll accounting the clerk has to do. The reports that she sent weren’t adequate.
Allen asked Walker what she needs to do the accounting. She said she sends an email every time there’s an issue, but does not receive responses.
“I am ultimately responsible for getting your financial information into the general ledger,” she said. “The problem with the report I’m receiving is that it’s not broken down by cost center,” which requires her to spend hours digging through to get the information she needs to enter into the county’s ledger.
Walker also pointed out that she is not required to do all the accounting work of creating the general ledger, journal entries, and benefit payments that she does.
Tran said it’s a work in progress and more change will be coming due to resolution 22-26.
“Why was it necessary?” Motley asked. “We’ve got a part-time person who’s the intermediary for the clerk, who’s an elected official. It makes zero sense.”
“I’m very frustrated by that lack of communication,” said Beerbower.
Motley said that his conversation with Steve Cohen (HR) showed that Cohen was unaware of the accounting duties of the clerk that require her to have the information in the reports she is currently being denied.
Having Krom send reports to Walker is “grossly inefficient,” said Motley. “Give her [Walker] access to the reports she needs…It’s just common sense.”
Motion failed to pass. Beerbower, Tran, and Milburn-Kee voted against.
Allen asked if there’s a way to control the view only access. Milburn-Kee said she didn’t think so.
Tran said that Payentry told him they have to create the data bases the clerk needs.
Beerbower pointed out that he was led to believe the clerk had access to too much employee information.
“What it boils down to is I advocated for the employees,… because I could see what their hiring dates were,” said Walker.
“Isn’t the county clerk the custodian of the records?” asked Hoyt. Motley agreed that she is and that it is counterintuitive to give access to those records to a part-time employee while denying it to the clerk.
Beerbower said he doesn’t see the issue as clearly as he thought he was.
Tran asked to table it.
Beerbower suggested they have Cohen come to the meeting next week to iron it out. “That’s communication.”
