Category Archives: Bourbon County

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

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of April 27

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April 27, 2021                                                                Tuesday 9:00 am

 

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

 

Also present were the following, (some were present for a portion of the meeting and some were present for the entire meeting); Anne Dare, Nancy Van Etten, Susan Bancroft, Lora Holdridge and Jason Silvers.

 

Jim Harris made a motion to approve the minutes from the April 20th Commission meeting, Clifton Beth seconded and all approved and signed the minutes.

 

Lynne Oharah stated that he received a call from Blake Wilson, Clifton Beth stated he had received a call as well, regarding Jayhawk Road as well as other roads that have been affected when Craw-Kan came in and put the fiber optic in and they were right on the edge of the right of way which has created a pothole scenario.  Even the roads that have been fixed are still an issue due to clay.  Lynne said we hope the citizens will bear with us as it will take a lot of work to get this resolved.  Eric Bailey, Director of Road & Bridge, stated that some of their fiber optic ended up in the road, they didn’t stay the 15’ off center line or 5’ off the edge of the road whichever was greater, they did submit a utility plan but he doesn’t believe it was signed off by commission.  He thinks there may have been a verbal to proceed but doesn’t know that there were any signatures on it.  Jim Harris stated that he didn’t see it.  Eric stated that he didn’t get any of the bond paperwork.  Eric has e-mails on this, and said they are working with us on this.  They should be done by the end of the month.  He will drive the area with Matt Wells, foreman for Bob Hull Inc, the contractor that is working out there, and see what we can come up with.  Craw-Kan has been very good to work with.  Eric said with all the rain it’s sloppy out there.

 

Eric reported several culvert permits that have been completed: Clint Hazen, T & C Hunt Club, Larry Shead and Dale Simpson.  He said they are under 80 culvert replacements and crossroad tubes.

 

Eric said 60th & Grand opened last Thursday.

 

Bridge inspection reports were handed out to commissioners regarding the bridge over BSNF.  Eric has had conversations with the Engineer about grants to see what is available.  Linn County has gotten some grants, so he will be meeting with Jackie Messer, Linn Co., to see what grants they’ve gotten and what we can do.  It was determined to revisit this in a couple of weeks to give Eric time to find grant information.

 

Eric reported they will continue patching potholes.  The County borrowed the city’s mini excavator and are hauling brush from the lake.  The County is going to be working with the city on a bad spot near the spillway in the road.  There was discussion regarding what part of the road was city and which part is county.  Jim Harris stated that Chad Brown showed him a document a couple of years ago that said the city’s property went up to the camping area; Eric will get with Chad regarding this.

 

Eric received a complaint that stated they had listened to the lake advisory board meeting and it sounded like it was promised that the road would be resurfaced this year on 195th.  Jim Harris said that during the road work session a chip and seal could be possible.

 

Eric stated another grant opportunity for roads would require a Local Road Safety Plan to be done.  We haven’t had one done.  Bourbon County is one of 33 counties out of 105 that haven’t.  There would be a $50,000 cost but the county’s share would be $5,000.  There is up to 3 ½ to 4 ½ million dollars available.  Jim Harris stated this was the same grant that was used down at the sale barn.  Barbara Albright was driving that and received the grant.  Eric asked to be able to get the Local Road Safety Plan done so that the county would be eligible for these types of grants.  Jim made a motion to allow the Local Road Safety Plan to be done. Clifton seconded and all approved.

 

Eric had a meeting with CIC regarding implementing computer software programming that we already have.  They will be providing training in a couple of weeks.  Eric will get a date and time and let everyone know.

 

Regarding the Jayhawk Wind are and the bridge on 60th between Arrowhead and Birch, Eric said it has been recommended by our engineer to put a speed limit sign of 15 miles per hour over that bridge.  He said they had an issue where bridge decking did come loose and said it would take 4 signs, two to reduce the speed and two to return it to standard limit.  Jim made a motion to allow Public Works Director to place a 15 mile per hour sign on either side of the bridge.  Clifton seconded and all approved. The completion of capping the roads with 4 to 6” of rock is at 90%.   Eric said everyone has been very good to work with.

 

Jim had a conversation with Eric regarding the mowing plan; they have two mowers and two side arm mowers.  The bridge truck has a motor issue.  They got a quote back from R & R on the blue tractor, they think it is a clutch fan and will be around $3,000 to $4,000 to fix it.

 

Justin Meeks stated that he and Eric visited with patrons regarding bridge on 35th & Yellowstone Road, he said we started research on it yesterday and found that the road is open and does belong to the county.  The bridge was closed in 2012.  It is about a 4 ½ mile route around.  It’s a beautiful old iron bridge.  It was built in 1889.  Patrons would like to get the bridge to accommodate ATVs, side-by-sides and foot traffic.  It would take a small fortune to get it up to accommodate vehicles.  Justin said two options would be to fix it or close 35th down.  Justin said maybe we could possibly get grants from the Department of Wildlife because of the area it’s in.

 

Lynne stated that the Gilmore & Bell Disclosure for Refinance expired in September 2020.  We are required by law to do a disclosure every year.  Susan Bancroft, Finance Director, stated that anytime you do any kind of lease/purchase agreement, any new debt you issue as a county, you should let Gilmore & Bell know so that they can continue to disclose that because otherwise it could be a material issue.  Clifton made a motion to renew the contract with Gilmore & Bell.  Jim seconded and all approved.  Clifton made a motion for Lynne to sign the contract.  Jim seconded and all approved and Lynne signed the contract.

 

Lynne discussed the mask mandate; the County did a diligent job to protect our employees and fellow citizens while in the Courthouse.  One of the biggest items was the liability it created.  Things have changed, we’ve been through the process of offering vaccinations against the Corona Virus.  We’ve had minimal response to get vaccinations.  With us offering vaccines at the county and the medical professional providers, our liability is now non-existent. Because it’s available, people that don’t want the vaccine don’t have to get it but the other side of that is the County no longer has a liability that I can see and I’ve also talked to the County Counselor with moving forward with the mask mandate.  Justin suggested that if the mask mandate is lifted it is for the County only and this facility only.  If any other entity wants to keep a mask mandate, they have a right to do that.  Each person can make their own choice of whether to take the vaccine.  You can’t force an employee to take the vaccine.  It’s each person’s choice.  Jim asked for Clifton’s opinion; Clifton stated he agreed with Justin.  It’s a person’s choice whether to wear a mask or not.  He did suggest that people keep their circles small.  There are still hot spots in the country.  Jim stated he spoke with some of the elected officials.  Kendell Mason, County Clerk, stated that she would like to see the masks continue.  Patty Love, Treasurer, said that she preferred the masks continue but is okay either way.  Lora Holdridge doesn’t think they are necessary.  Clifton made the motion, applicable to only Bourbon County buildings, excluding 3rd floor, which are under their own mandate, would not be under mask mandate.  The rest of the County would fall under State Legislature guidelines.  Jim seconded and all approved.  Jim made a motion for this action to be immediate.  Clifton Beth seconded and all approved.

 

Justin requested a motion be made to go into executive session.

 

Clifton made the motion to amend the agenda and go into an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.  Subject matter is job performance with possible employment opportunity for individual (the session included 3 Commissioners and Justin Meeks).  The Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in the Commission room at 9:55am. Jim seconded and all approved.  At 9:55am Clifton made motion to come out of executive session and resume the normal meeting.  Jim seconded and all approved.  Lynne made a motion to have permission to talk to an employee about future employment.  Jim seconded all approved.

 

Lynne Oharah requested a short break from 9:57am to 10:07am.

 

Elected Official – Bill Martin, called in via phone.  The connection was lost.  Lynne said that Bill spoke with them at a previous meeting about bringing three vehicles from forfeiture that he wants to add back to the fleet.  Lynne asked for insurance costs to add these vehicles back in and he can get that information to Kendell’s office.

 

Justin stated that the tax sale will wait two more weeks.  The abstract company is working diligently and they are very busy which is a good thing.  He said we have around 400 parcels total.  If we can get 150 to 175, we might have a second sale in November or December.  We were hoping for June for the first one but with the housing market “on fire” it is delaying the abstracts.  We would rather have the person who has bought a home to be first in line instead of the tax sale.  We don’t want to put any pressure on the abstract company.  There are people redeeming which is good.  The collections rate is good and we will hopefully be at $300,000 pre-sale which is a big deal.  Justin said hopefully we will keep up with the trend and keep collecting back taxes.

 

Justin also stated that Mr. Coon contacted him a month ago regarding a lot on Wall Street; Justin said he wants to start building spec homes, smaller square footage wise but will be perfect for our demographic in our community.  There was a special on that property with the City and the City did the right thing and waived the special tear-down fee.  The tear down fee was around $7,000 to $8,000.  He’s paid back taxes on the property and he is going to use Clint’s office with the NRP program.  If there are some taxes in the future, we might want to think about waiving taxes at the County level to help spur residential and even commercials on some level.  Mr. Coons stated that he has owned this property for many years, but due to bad city management that left a bad taste in his mouth and just said there you go.  There is a lot of new energy in the City right now as there is in the County and I like that.  My wife and I decided to invest a little bit, but we have to have some incentives.  The city has given me a waiver for $7,200.  My plans are to build 4 additional homes in 2021 and 2022.  There is a 5-year tax abatement for new building.  Lynne clarified that it is a tax refund and not abatement.  Mr. Coon said the City tears houses down and then it has no taxable value and if there were incentives for investors for new construction that would be helpful.  Justin stated that the NRP program is available.  An incentive for economic development that happens for a builder that wants to do residential development like Mr. Coon’s is talking about. The County has moved toward the BEDCO model where you have an economic source to go to.  The Landbank would be a big part of this where someone could come in and get lots for next to nothing or free and not having back taxes and having a clear title.  It can cost $1,800 to $2,500 to get a clear title.  We have to do things on our end to get him the help he needs and we aren’t there yet.   Mr. Coon’s is currently seeking a grant.

 

Susan Bancroft, Finance Director, the last meeting we talked about going out for bid on Property/Casualty, WC and Health Insurance Benefits.  She recommended that the County look at a broker, consultant or advisor that is non-biased that helps you through this process or we can try to do it ourselves.  The problem is when you try to compare apples to apples you don’t always get that when you’re doing these types of bids.  I’m recommending an advisor to help through this process.  Lynne stated that he feels the County has very good benefits and we need to compare apples to apples.  Clifton stated that he wasn’t comfortable with getting a broker/consultant/advisor as he didn’t feel they would be fair as there would be a commission at stake.  Clifton suggested a consultant be brought in once the quotes were received.  All Commissioners agreed.  Lynne stated that we should look at what it is going to take to have a consultant look at the quotes prior to presenting them to the Commission.

 

Anne Dare was scheduled for comment but had not received all the information she needed.

 

Public comment: Clint Walker stated that the county has done ok with the mask mandate.  The Commissioners have allowed each entity to enforce their own mandate.  Also, regarding healthcare, we want young people to move here and yet if they want to have a child they will have to go to Nevada, Allen County or down to Pittsburg.  Allen County is talking about expanding and Chanute got a grant for $2,000,000 to expand.  My brother is a medical doctor in a town half the size of Fort Scott and has a hospital.  What is wrong with this picture?

Lynne stated the hospital pulled out because they were not making any money.  The Dialysis Center went out because they weren’t making money.  You have to make money to keep an operation going, even though a lot of them are heavily subsidized.

Jim stated that he read in Fort Scott Biz that Via Christi is not moving with CHC and hopes they will make their plans known soon.  We need an emergency room.  Clifton stated that hospitals make very little money.  They are a private business and if they are losing money they are going to shut down.  If we as a County want to subsidize that to the tune of about $5,000,000 per year, we can do that for a hospital.  Regarding an ER, there has to be a standing hospital within 35 miles to operate an emergency room.  Via Christi is it.  As far as Via Christi and CHC that’s between them.  They are private businesses.

Justin stated that we are very grateful for CHC and Via Christi being in our community.  We may have to think about subsidizing an ER.  Without it we won’t be a normal community.  An ER is vital.  If it comes with a $1,000,000 per year price tag it may be something we have to look at.

 

At 10:50 Jim Harris made a motion to adjourn.  Clifton seconded and all approved.

 

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Chairman

(ss) Jim Harris, Commissioner

(ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Kendell Mason, Bourbon County Clerk

May 4, 2021, Approved Date

 

 

Bourbon County, Health Care

Uniontown Medical Clinic Open For Patients

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Lori Reith, left, medical assistant, and Stephanie Hallacy, nurse practitioner, stand in front of the newly opened Girard Medical Center of Uniontown Clinic.

Uniontown’s new medical clinic is open for patients as of May 4.

 

The staff has been in the building for a month, working on the accreditation process which was completed.

 

The clinic staff received accreditation this week.

 

“There was a soft opening for four weeks,” Medical Assitant Lori Reith said. “We have seen 20 patients.”

 

 

The official title of the facility is the Girard Medical Center of Uniontown Clinic.

 

 

The building is located south of the USD 235 football field, at 401 Fifth Street. The phone number is 620-756-4111.

 

 

Clinic hours are 8 a.m to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The clinic is closed each day between noon and 1 p.m.

 

On the front door of the clinic is a list of the summer holiday schedule.

 

Reith is in the clinic on Tuesdays doing bookkeeping, she said. “I can schedule appointments, answer questions and fill out new patient forms.”

 

 

Stephanie Hallacy is the nurse practitioner and Reith is the medical assistant of the clinic. Candi Adams is the director of clinic operations, with Dr. Adam Paoni the medical director.

 

 

 

Hallacy is a family practice nurse practitioner, who will be offering primary care to the community in western Bourbon County.

 

Hallacy has worked for Girard Medical Center since 2013 as a nurse practitioner in their clinics as well as its walk-in clinic, she said in a prior interview.

 

From 2006-2014 she was a flight nurse for EagleMed.

 

Prior to that, she worked as a registered nurse in an intensive care unit in Oklahoma from 1994 – 2006.

Nurse Practitioner Stephanie Hallacy works on charting at her desk in the Uniontown Clinic.
Hallacy received her 1994 associate degree in nursing from Grayson County College in Denison, TX,  her bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Oklahoma, and her master of science in nursing from Pittsburg State University in 2012.

To see a prior story on Hallacy, click below.

Stephanie Hallacy: New Nurse Practioner At Uniontown Clinic

 

 

Medical Assitant Lori Reith works at the front desk at the Uniontown Clinic.

 

Reith’s education was as an emergency medical technician but was cross-trained in the lab and as a medical assistant. She was a phlebotomist for 15 years and recently worked for the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas in Iola.

Reith is married to Uniontown Junior High/Senior High Principal Mike Reith.

 

Medical Assistant Lori Reith stands in the laboratory of Uniontown Clinic.

 

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

 

“It is a walk-in clinic, but also primary care,” Reith said.

Other services:

rapid testing for strep, flu, COVID-19

urinalysis, urinalysis for pregnancy,

hemoglobin tests,

tetanus shots,

blood draw,

monitor of blood pressure,

steroid shots,

stitches and

referral of patients.

 

“We are also able to do sports physicals free for the month of May, Reith said.  “We can do pre-school physicals. We offer immunizations, but those need to be scheduled.”

 

 

A patient exam room at the Uniontown Clinic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda For May 11

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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: May 11, 2021

1st District-Lynne Oharah                                                                Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jim Harris                                                                      Corrected: _______________________

3rd District-Clifton Beth                                                                              Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

 

   

    MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM.

 

Call to Order

   

    • Flag Salute
    • Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
    • Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
    • BSNF Bridge Overview
    • Community Corrections Advisory Board Member
    • Elected Officials Comment
    • County Counselor Comment
    • Susan Bancroft, Finance Director
    • Public Comment
  • Commission Comment

Justifications for Executive Session:

          KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy

          KSA 75-4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship

          KSA 75-4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency

          KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships

          KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property

          KSA 75-4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.

Area News, Bourbon County, Business

Evergy’s Plan: Public Comments Sought

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KCC invites public comments on Evergy’s Sustainability Transformation Plan

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has opened a public comment period beginning today through July 7 to allow Evergy customers the opportunity to weigh in on the company’s proposed Sustainability Transformation Plan (STP). The plan, approved by Evergy’s Board of Directors in August, is designed to cut operating and maintenance expenses while increasing capital expenditures.

To protect the interest of Kansas ratepayers, the Commission opened a General Investigation on August 27 to provide KCC staff, stakeholders, and Evergy an opportunity to discuss and evaluate the plan.

As part of the investigation, a series of workshops were scheduled and broadcast for the public on the KCC’s YouTube channel.  The final workshop is scheduled for May 24 at 10 a.m. At that time, Evergy will present an updated STP plan incorporating feedback from earlier workshops and answer questions from intervenors and Commissioners.

Recordings of the three previous workshops are available on YouTube for anyone who missed them. Topics covered include grid modernization investments and related benefits, operational efficiencies, and enhanced customer experience.

Additional information is available in Docket No. 21-EKME-088-GIE on the KCC’s website .  The Commission has requested all participants in the docket file background information explaining the proceeding and their respective positions.

Public comments can be submitted online via the KCC website, through email ([email protected]) or in a letter to the agency’s Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at 1500 SW Arrowhead, Topeka, KS 66614. All comments must be received by 5 p.m. on July 7 and will be included in the case record.

Area News, Bourbon County

Evergy Announces 2021 First Quarter Results

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  • GAAP EPS of $0.84; Adjusted EPS (Non-GAAP) of $0.55
  • Declares quarterly dividend of $0.535
  • Raises 2021 GAAP earnings guidance; affirms 2021 adjusted earnings guidance

 

Kansas City, Mo., May 6, 2021 – Evergy, Inc. (NYSE: EVRG) today announced first quarter 2021 earnings of $192 million, or $0.84 per share, compared with earnings of $69 million, or $0.31 per share, for the first quarter of 2020.

 

Evergy’s adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) were $125 million and $0.55, respectively, in the first quarter of 2021 compared with $94 million and $0.41, respectively, in the first quarter of 2020. Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) are reconciled to GAAP earnings in the financial table included in this release.

 

First quarter earnings per share were driven higher primarily by favorable power marketing margins gained during the February winter weather event, which also favorably impacted retail sales compared to the prior year.  Adjusted earnings exclude power marketing margins gained during the February winter weather event, as well as executive transition, severance, and advisor expenses.

 

“We are off to a solid start in 2021,” said David Campbell, Evergy president and chief executive officer. “Our team continues to execute – delivering strong financial results in the first quarter and advancing several key regulatory and legislative objectives.”

 

Net-Zero Carbon Goal

 

Evergy recently announced its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which outlines and accelerates the company’s carbon reduction timeline.  Evergy plans to add 3,200 megawatts of renewable generation and retire nearly 1,200 megawatts of coal-based generation in the next 10 years. The plan balances sustainability, reliability, and affordability, and outlines Evergy’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, enabled by a combination of supportive energy policies and ongoing technology developments.  As part of the plan, Evergy also announced an interim target to reduce its carbon emissions 70 percent by 2030, relative to 2005 levels.

 

“Our net-zero carbon emission goal establishes a vision of accelerating our transition toward cleaner energy, benefitting our customers, communities and stakeholders,” said Campbell.  “Reducing carbon emissions and increasing renewable energy benefits our customers by reducing operating costs and by making our operations more environmentally sustainable.  The growth of renewable energy will bring economic benefits to our region through cost-competitive generation and investment in rural communities.  Our plan will also assist our customers in meeting their own sustainability goals.”

 

 

 

Earnings Guidance

 

Evergy has raised its 2021 GAAP EPS guidance range to $3.43 to $3.63, from $3.14 to $3.34 primarily due to the impact of favorable power marketing margins gained during the February winter weather event, which the Company has excluded from its adjusted earnings.  The Company has affirmed its 2021 adjusted EPS guidance range of $3.20 to $3.40 and long-term adjusted EPS annual growth target of 6% to 8% from 2019 through 2024.

 

Dividend Declaration

 

The Board of Directors declared a dividend on the Company’s common stock of $0.535 per share

payable on June 21, 2021. The dividends are payable to shareholders of record as of May 21, 2021.

 

 

 

 

 

This earnings announcement, a package of detailed first-quarter financial information, theCompany’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2021 and other filings theCompany has made with the Securities and Exchange Commission are available on the Company’s

website at http://investors.evergy.com.

 

 

Adjusted Earnings (non-GAAP) and Adjusted Earnings Per Share (non-GAAP)

 

Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) exclude the income or costs resulting from non-regulated energy marketing margins from the February 2021 winter weather event, and costs resulting from executive transition, severance, and advisor expenses. This information is intended to enhance an investor’s overall understanding of results. Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) are used internally to measure performance against budget and in reports for management and the Evergy Board of Directors. Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) are financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with GAAP and may not be comparable to other companies’ presentations or more useful than the GAAP information provided elsewhere in this report.

 

The following tables provide a reconciliation between net income attributable to Evergy, Inc. and diluted earnings per common share as determined in accordance with GAAP and adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP).

 

Evergy, Inc

Consolidated Earnings and Diluted Earnings Per Share

(Unaudited)

 

Earnings (Loss)

  

Earnings (Loss) per Diluted Share

  

Earnings (Loss)

  

Earnings (Loss) per Diluted Share
Three Months Ended March 31

2021

  

2020
 

(millions, except per share amounts)
Net income attributable to Evergy, Inc. $

191.6

  $

0.84

  $

69.4

  $

0.31

Non-GAAP reconciling items:              
Non-regulated energy marketing margin related to winter weather event, pre-tax(a)

(96.5)

 

(0.42)

 

—

 

—

Non-regulated energy marketing costs related to winter weather event, pre-tax(b)

2.0

 

0.01

 

—

 

—

Executive transition costs, pre-tax(c)

5.5

 

0.02

 

—

 

—

Severance costs, pre-tax(d)

1.6

 

0.01

 

27.0

 

0.12

Advisor expenses, pre-tax(e)

1.5

 

0.01

 

6.6

 

0.02

Income tax expense (benefit)(f)

19.7

 

0.08

 

(8.8)

 

(0.04)

Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) $

125.4

  $

0.55

  $

94.2

  $

0.41

  1. Reflects non-regulated energy marketing margins related to the winter weather event in February 2021 and are included in operating revenues on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  2. Reflects non-regulated energy marketing incentive compensation costs related to the winter weather event in February 2021 and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  3. Reflects costs associated with executive transition including inducement bonuses, severance agreements and other transition expenses and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  4. Reflects severance costs incurred associated with certain voluntary severance programs at the Evergy Companies and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  5. Reflects advisor expenses incurred associated with strategic planning and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  6. Reflects an income tax effect calculated at a statutory rate of approximately 22% in 2021 and 26% in 2020, with the exception of certain non-deductible items.

GAAP to Non-GAAP Earnings Guidance

Earnings per
Diluted Share

Guidance
2021 Net income attributable to Evergy, Inc.

$3.43 – $3.63
Non-GAAP reconciling items:

Non-regulated energy marketing margin related to winter weather event(a)

(0.42)
Non-regulated energy marketing costs related to winter weather event(b)

0.03
Executive transition costs(c)

0.03
Severance costs(d)

0.01
Advisor expenses(e)

0.05
Income tax expense (benefit)(f)

0.07
2021 Adjusted earnings (non-GAAP)

$3.20 – $3.40

  1. Reflects non-regulated energy marketing margins related to the winter weather event in February 2021 and are included in operating revenues on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  2. Reflects non-regulated energy marketing incentive compensation costs related to the winter weather event in February 2021 and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  3.  Reflects costs associated with executive transition including inducement bonuses, severance agreements and other transition expenses and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  4.  Reflects severance costs incurred associated with certain voluntary severance programs at the Evergy Companies and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  5. Reflects advisor expenses incurred associated with strategic planning and are included in operating and maintenance expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
  6.  Reflects an income tax effect calculated at a statutory rate of approximately 22% in 2021, with the exception of certain non-deductible items.

About Evergy

Evergy, Inc. (NYSE: EVRG), provides clean, safe and reliable energy to 1.6 million customers in Kansas and Missouri. The 2018 combination of KCP&L and Westar Energy to form Evergy created a leading energy company that provides value to shareholders and a stronger company for customers.

Evergy’s mission is to empower a better future. Today, half the power supplied to homes and businesses by Evergy comes from emission-free sources, creating more reliable energy with less impact to the environment. We will continue to innovate and adopt new technologies that give our customers better ways to manage their energy use.

For more information about Evergy, visit us at http://investors.evergy.com.

 

Forward Looking Statements

Statements made in this release that are not based on historical facts are forward-looking, may involve risks and uncertainties, and are intended to be as of the date when made. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to our strategic plan, including, without limitation, those related to earnings per share, dividend, operating and maintenance expense and capital investment goals; the outcome of legislative efforts and regulatory and legal proceedings; future energy demand; future power prices; plans with respect to existing and potential future generation resources; the availability and cost of generation resources and energy storage; target emissions reductions; and other matters relating to expected financial performance or affecting future operations. Forward-looking statements are often accompanied by forward-looking words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” “should,” “could,” “may,” “seeks,” “intends,” “proposed,” “projects,” “planned,” “target,” “outlook,” “remain confident,” “goal,” “will” or other words of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information.

In connection with the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Evergy, Inc., Evergy Kansas Central, Inc. and Evergy Metro, Inc. (collectively, the Evergy Companies) are providing a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking information. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to: economic and weather conditions and any impact on sales, prices and costs; changes in business strategy or operations; the impact of federal, state and local political, legislative, judicial and regulatory actions or developments, including deregulation, re-regulation, securitization and restructuring of the electric utility industry; decisions of regulators regarding, among other things, customer rates and the prudency of operational decisions such as capital expenditures and asset retirements; changes in applicable laws, regulations, rules, principles or practices, or the interpretations thereof, governing tax, accounting and environmental matters, including air and water quality and waste management and disposal; the impact of climate change, including increased frequency and severity of significant weather events and the extent to which counterparties are willing to do business with, finance the operations of or purchase energy from the Evergy Companies due to the fact that the Evergy Companies operate coal-fired generation; prices and availability of electricity in wholesale markets; market perception of the energy industry and the Evergy Companies; the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on, among other things, sales, results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows, and also on operational issues, such as the availability and ability of our employees and suppliers to perform the functions that are necessary to operate the Evergy Companies; changes in the energy trading markets in which the Evergy Companies participate, including retroactive repricing of transactions by regional transmission organizations (RTO) and independent system operators; financial market conditions and performance, including changes in interest rates and credit spreads and in availability and cost of capital and the effects on derivatives and hedges, nuclear decommissioning trust and pension plan assets and costs; impairments of long-lived assets or goodwill; credit ratings; inflation rates; the transition to a replacement for the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) benchmark interest rate; effectiveness of risk management policies and procedures and the ability of counterparties to satisfy their contractual commitments; impact of physical and cybersecurity breaches, criminal activity, terrorist attacks and other disruptions to the Evergy Companies’ facilities or information technology infrastructure or the facilities and infrastructure of third-party service providers on which the Evergy Companies rely; ability to carry out marketing and sales plans; cost, availability, quality and timely provision of equipment, supplies, labor and fuel; ability to achieve generation goals and the occurrence and duration of planned and unplanned generation outages; delays and cost increases of generation, transmission, distribution or other projects; the Evergy Companies’ ability to manage their transmission and distribution development plans and transmission joint ventures; the inherent risks associated with the ownership and operation of a nuclear facility, including environmental, health, safety, regulatory and financial risks; workforce risks, including those related to the Evergy Companies’ ability to attract and retain qualified personnel, maintain satisfactory relationships with their labor unions and manage costs of, or changes in, retirement, health care and other benefits; disruption, costs and uncertainties caused by or related to the actions of individuals or entities, such as activist shareholders or special interest groups, that seek to influence Evergy’s strategic plan, financial results or operations; the possibility that strategic initiatives, including mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, and long-term financial plans, may not create the value that they are expected to achieve in a timely manner or at all; difficulties in maintaining relationships with customers, employees, regulators or suppliers; and other risks and uncertainties.

This list of factors is not all-inclusive because it is not possible to predict all factors. Additional risks and uncertainties are discussed from time to time in current, quarterly and annual reports filed by the Evergy Companies with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Reports filed by the Evergy Companies with the SEC should also be read for more information regarding risk factors. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement. The Evergy Companies undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Investor Contact:

Cody VandeVelde

Director, Investor Relations

Phone: 785-575-8227

[email protected]

 ­

Media Contact:

Gina Penzig

Manager, External Communications

Phone: 785-508-2410

[email protected]        

Media line: 888-613-0003

Continue reading Evergy Announces 2021 First Quarter Results →

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Gordon Parks Museum Fundraiser Event: Feature Contemporary Jazz and R&B Violinist, Dominique Hammons

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Fort Scott-The Gordon Parks Museum Fundraiser event, will feature Jazz & RB Violinist, Dominique Hammons in a music performance at 8:00 p.m. at the Liberty Theater in Fort Scott, KS on Friday, June 18, 2021. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.

This event is supported in part by Liberty Theater, Bourbon County Arts Council, and Briggs-Fort Scott.

“We are very excited and thrilled that we are able to bring the sensational multi-talented Dominique Hammons to Fort Scott. This is a performance you won’t want to miss” said Kirk Sharp, Gordon Parks Museum Director.

Dominique Hammons is a young, energetic, Contemporary/Jazz and R&B Violinist from Houston, TX and started playing classical violin at the age of eight.

Hammons attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston and was a member of the school orchestra program for four years. After high school, Dominique attended the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma, and graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Performance with an emphasis in Jazz.

During the early part of middle and high school years, Hammons performed for four years with the Houston Youth Symphony Orchestra, receiving high accolades for excellence. Dominique also performed with other orchestra and chamber groups such as Virtuosi of Houston and TMEA All-State Orchestra. He was also chosen to study and perform with the Diaz Music Institute’s Youth Latin Jazz group, “Caliente”.

According from his biography, his ‘God given’ talent has been recognized with many awards and among them, the Houston Symphony’s “Young Artist Competition”, where he won the opportunity to play a solo on stage with the Houston Symphony. He also competed and won medals and recognitions while participating in NAACP “Actso” competitions.

Since graduation, Dominique has gravitated to teaching classical violin lessons to the youth who desire to follow in his footsteps; and continues to perform in Houston and surrounding cities as a solo artist. His popularity has risen in high demand to perform at many venues and performs various genres of music such as classical, pop, gospel, jazz, hip hop, and R&B. His unique blend of music and style has granted him to perform across the nation such as Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, and Washington State.*(2020)

Hammon’s Musical career has led him to perform at the following events:

 Selected to play the National Anthem during the pre-game show at the Houston Rockets game in
November of 2018.
 He was selected to audition for the ‘2019 America’s Got Talent’ competition.
 Opening act for Johnathan Butler at the 2018 Martini Blue Jazz Festival. (Which Dominique received
a standing ovation of a crowd of 3,000.)
 Headliner for City of College Park & 7Flavors of Smooth Jazz Festival, Atlanta, GA.
Tickets are $30 each or $35 at the door. Tickets will be available at the Gordon Parks Museum located on the
campus at Fort Scott Community College or over the phone (620)-223-2700 ext. 5850.
For more information about the Fundraiser Performance Event, contact us by phone (620) – 223-2700, ext.
5850 or by email [email protected].
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