Category Archives: Bourbon County

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes Dec. 20, Dec. 18

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December 20th, 2018                                       Thursday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session to have a meeting regarding economic development.

Lynne Oharah, Nick Ruhl, Don George, Pam Henderson, Earl Lewis, Jody Hoener, Justin Meeks, Shane Walker and Tom Metcalf met and took a ride around Bourbon County to look at potential economic development. No action was taken.

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Chairman

(ss) Jeff Fischer, Commissioner

(ss) Nick Ruhl, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Kendell Mason, Bourbon County Clerk

01/08/2019, Approved Date

December 18, 2018                                         Tuesday 9:00 am

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

Tammy Helm with the Fort Scott Tribune and Nancy Van Etten were also present.

Jody Hoener, Krista Goltra, Micah Bukowski and Lora Holdridge met with the Commissioners regarding a $12,500 wellness grant that the County is maintaining. Jody said a survey was sent out to County employees and the results of the survey will be incorporated into the wellness committees plan. Jim said some of his employees may not have filed out the survey due to the fact that they don’t have a computer; Jody said she would get a paper copy of the survey for them to fill out. Jody said the survey has nothing to do with the County insurance.  Jody said a tobacco cessation program will be held at the end of January of 2019. The goal of the wellness program is to increase productivity, improve overall health and lower absenteeism. Jeff suggested that the first meeting of every month beginning in February the agenda has 10 minutes dedicated to wellness at the beginning of the meeting.

Lynne made a motion to approve an application for AT&T to install a box in the right of way in the Industrial Park for fiber optic, they will bore 85’ across Indian Road and 70’ across Campbell Road, Nick seconded and all approved and signed the application. Nick questioned if the County charged for this service, Lynne said no, the companies are already taxed enough.

Lynne made a motion to approve an application from Verizon for the moving of 58 sites from underground to above ground, Jeff seconded and all approved. Jeff asked Jim for copies of all of the maps associated with this project.

Jim Harris asked permission to purchase an additional truck; he said when Jerad Heckman uses his truck he is left without a vehicle. Lynne asked that they wait on this until after the first of the year to decide this.

Lynne made a motion to do the end of the year transfers for 2018 once all of the bills are paid for 2018 and before the books close, Jeff seconded and all approved.

Travis Clinesmith with Murphy Tractor met with the Commissioners; he presented a quote for a John Deere JD6120E with a 22’ Diamond rear cradle boom for $113,000.00.   This is a used tractor with less than 350 hours; the County can commit to hold the mower, but does not have to buy. If purchased, the County will have to pay a difference of $14,725 after the insurance company sends a check for the tractor that was destroyed in a fire. Lynne made a motion to hold the tractor for future consideration, Nick seconded and all approved.

Lynne told Jim that a property owner between 30-40th & Eagle Road requested gravel.

The Commissioners considered a road closure petition; the petition was filed by Shawn Bates with Top Pin Holdings, LLC the legal description is as follows… Jeff questioned how close this road was to utilities. Lynne made a motion to not approve the road closure petition due to the possibility of future development, Jeff seconded and all approved.

Jeff told Jim Harris that it was reported to them that after the Road & Bridge had their Thanksgiving meal that the employees left for ½ day; Jim said that was incorrect, the employees left in the afternoon and they had their time made up before they left, which prevented overtime.

Lynne made a motion to go into a 10 minute executive session for personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel, Nick seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Clint Anderson, Justin Meeks and Kendell Mason). No action was taken.

Lynne made a motion to go into a 5 minute executive session for consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship, Nick seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners and Justin Meeks). No action was taken.

Jason Findley met with the Commissioners; he requested replacement signs for no shooting on Pavey’s Ford. He said that the signs used to be there and said the property owners in the area are sitting ducks with people discharging firearms in the area. The Commissioners said they would ask Jim Harris to put up signs.

Nick made a motion to approve the emblem design for the uniforms and ambulances that Dave Bruner presented to him, Jeff seconded and all approved. Nick estimated the uniforms to cost approximately $7,000 and $1,725 for the emblems on the ambulances. Lynne said that according to Terry Sercer, the County should have some carryover money to use towards the ambulance project.

Nancy Van Etten questioned where the Commissioners were with the bridge inspection report that was previously presented; the Commissioners discussed some of the bridges that they have started making improvements on.

There was a brief discussion over the expansion of 69 Highway and the importance of it for economic development in Bourbon County.

Nancy Van Etten complimented the Commissioners; she complimented Nick on his knowledge of emergency services, Lynne on his knowledge of the budget and Jeff on his interesting questions he asks and the statistics presented to help make decisions. The Commissioners felt they accomplished a lot over the past year.

Lynne discussed the Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission; he said every 4 years the SEKRPC has a community development team and there is grant money awarded for economic development. He said they have gotten more aggressive in promoting economic development. Lynne said the County will develop a plan and have monthly meetings to discuss economic development. Lynne and Jody Hoener will be on the core committee.

Jeff made a motion for Lynne to sign the closing certificate bill of sale for the ambulances (a certificate for Mercy to give the County the ambulance donations, a bill of sale was needed in order to tag the ambulances), Nick seconded and all approved. Nick made a motion to allow Jody to spend up to $50 per ambulance for the title transfer, Jeff seconded and all approved. KCAMP, the County insurance carrier recommended that the County create a lease to lease the ambulances to the City for use; Justin said he didn’t think that was necessary since both the City and County are insured with KCAMP. Lynne asked Jody to call KCAMP to discuss this lease, Nick seconded and all approved.

The Commissioners said they appreciate the help Mercy has given in the ambulance transition and the ambulance donations.

The Commissioners discussed the OMNI contract; OMNI will do the ambulance billing and coding. OMNI will receive 7% of the money collected. Nick made a motion to sign two one-year contracts with OMNI; the business association agreement and the OMNI EMS billing contract, Jeff seconded and all approved and Lynne signed both contracts.

The Commissioners said without the ambulance donations from Mercy and without partnering with the City of Fort Scott the County would have had to cut services and raise taxes to fund the ambulance.

Ralph Carlson and Amanda Gilmore met with the Commissioners; Mr. Carlson said he had called the University of Kansas Health System to see if they were aware of the hospital situation in Bourbon County, they were. Mr. Carlson offered his assistance in getting a hospital back here and possibly being an investor in the mission. Nancy Van Etten asked what the next step for the hospital was; Justin said they have a good plan for the next two years, and said they have two years to come up with the next step. Jody said the community needs a sense of security that they will have health service in the future. Currently patients will not be admitted to the hospital, but maybe in the future. Jody said they were grateful for Community Health Center coming to the area. Mrs. Gilmore said she had been looking at faith based hospitals, and discussed the original mission of Mercy Hospital. She said that the churches need to be better at meeting the needs of the community. Justin said the demographic numbers are down and that the data supports it can’t be what it is now and said that Mercy didn’t want to close the hospital. Mrs. Gilmore said she felt that there are generous patrons that could help with the hospital.

At 11:54, Lynne made a motion to break for lunch and reconvene at 1:30, Nick seconded and all approved.

Nick made a motion to have a special meeting on December 20th at 9:00 am regarding economic development, Jeff seconded and all approved.

Lynne reported that on 115th and Tomahawk going north that it wasn’t an open road.

Jeff discussed the idea of a KIOSK or an information officer; he said he met with an elected official to discuss this idea as well as to discuss a compensation strategy for department heads that have followed the salary resolution. Jeff said he didn’t know where in Kansas a KIOSK had been implemented. Jeff discussed what can currently be done online; he said currently taxes can be paid online, but a username and password is required to do this. Jeff said he visited Mark McCoy with McDonalds who has recently implemented a KIOSK system; Mr. McCoy reported that it would save employees but change the rolls for the employees. Jeff suggested getting department heads together to each come up with one task of transactions that could be completed on the website. Justin suggested setting funds aside for future website improvements.

Justin reported he is still working on implementing the NRP with the AG’s office.

Jeff made a motion to go into a 30 minute executive session for personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel, Nick seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners and Justin Meeks). After the session, Lynne made a motion to give Jeff the authority to get access to CIC Budgetary fund accounting for reporting purposes, Nick seconded and all approved.

Lynne made a motion to go into a 5 minute executive session for personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel, Jeff seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Justin Meeks and Kendell Mason). No action was taken.

At 3:40, Lynne made a motion to adjourn, Jeff seconded and all approved.

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Chairman

(ss) Jeff Fischer, Commissioner

(ss) Nick Ruhl, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Kendell Mason, Bourbon County Clerk

12/27/2018, Approved Date

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes Dec. 11

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December 11, 2018                                                   Tuesday 9:00 am

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

Tammy Helm with the Fort Scott Tribune was also present.

Jerad Heckman and Jim Harris with Road & Bridge met with the Commissioners; Jim reported they are mowing on 210th as well as Tomahawk, he said they are hauling rock to Osage Road and crushing at the Beth Quarry. Jim said that some of his employees are taking a first aid class on December 12th, (Jeff said he may participate in the class). He said they will be drilling at the Thomas Quarry next week. Jim said they will be receiving a $98,275 check from the insurance company for a tractor, (he asked that it be deposited in the Special Machinery fund) this money will be used for a replacement tractor.

Nick made a motion to sell a tire machine and a 1998 New Holland on Purple Wave, Jeff seconded and all approved.

Lynne said Loretta George complimented the patching done on 2nd street.

Jim Harris said he would be moving an employee from the Landfill to work on a motor grader in the northwest portion of the County.

Nick made a motion to go into a 30 minute executive session for consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship, Jeff seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners and Justin Meeks). No action was taken.

Jeff made a motion to go into a 30 minute executive session for personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel, Nick seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Lora Holdridge and Justin Meeks). No action was taken.

Lora and the Commissioners discussed the current Bourbon County fee schedule; Jeff asked Lora to review what other counties are charging for fees and then Bourbon County may need to revise its fee schedule.

Lynne made a motion to adopt resolution #24-18, the wage resolution adds an exempt position called Data Center Director with an annual salary of $3,499.99, Jeff seconded and all approved.

The Commissioners and Shane Walker briefly talked about a data center at the County. Tom Brink prepared a Data Center document; Jeff said he felt that the County needed to solicit potential data center customers and see what their needs are; Jeff felt that Tom Brink could provide guidance with this matter.

Lynne made a motion to go into a 30 minute executive session for consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship, Nick seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners and Justin Meeks). No action was taken.

At 12:05, Nick made a motion to break for lunch and reconvene at 1:30, Lynne seconded and all approved.

Nancy Van Etten arrived at the Commission meeting.

After lunch, Jim Harris and Jerad Heckman met with the Commissioners and reviewed the current 2018 budget figures. Jim questioned revenue reported on the reports; Kendell suggested that Jim and Patty Love meet with Terry Sercer to review the revenue reports and accounts that the revenue is coded to.

Justin Meeks said that he is working on an agreement regarding a possible donation of ambulance equipment. Jody Hoener reported that the County had received the OMNI contract for the ambulance billing services. Justin reminded the Commissioners that the County has been subsidizing the Mercy ambulance for several years, (in 2018 $311,478 has been budgeted to pay to Mercy for ambulance services). The County will continue to pay to Mercy to subsidize the ambulance January – March in 2019.

Lynne reported that he would be meeting with Terry Sercer on December 13th at 9:00 to review some funds; Jeff made a motion to allow this meeting, Nick seconded and all approved. Terry said he felt that the 2018 General fund would end the year with a good carryover balance. Terry said he felt the County needed to amend four funds due to the fact that revenue and expenses were both more than was budgeted for.

  1. Noxious Weed fund
  2. Road & Bridge Sales Tax
  3. Landfill
  4. Jail Sales Tax fund (which is the sales tax fund used to pay the debt service for the new jail)

The 2018 budgeted amendment will be on December 27, 2018 at 10:00 am.

Lynne made a motion to go into a 5 minute executive session for consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship, Jeff seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Justin Meeks, Kendell Mason and Terry Sercer). No action was taken.

Lynne made a motion to have a Commission meeting on December 27th instead of December 25th, Nick seconded and all approved.

Jeff made a motion to go into a 10 minute executive session for personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel, Lynne seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners and Justin Meeks). After the session, Lynne made a motion to give Jeff permission to meet with an elected official, Nick seconded and all approved.

Jeff made a motion to have a special meeting on December 12th at 11:00 regarding the ambulance service, Nick seconded and all approved.

Lynne made a motion to move the January 1st, 2019 meeting to January 2nd, Nick seconded and all approved.

At 4:10, Nick made a motion to adjourn, Lynne seconded and all approved.

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Chairman

(ss) Jeff Fischer, Commissioner

(ss) Nick Ruhl, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Kendell Mason, Bourbon County Clerk

12/18/2018, Approved Date

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

Family Caregivers Support Program Jan. 14-Feb 18

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

Program to be Offered to Support Family Caregivers

A couple of months ago I wrote an article on supporting family caregivers. You might remember that I mentioned family caregivers, often referred to as informal caregivers, provide 90% of the long-term care offered in America. The value of the unpaid care they provide runs into the hundreds of billions of dollars.

Caregivers frequently experience the need to ‘do it all’. ‘Doing it all,’ from the caregiver’s perspective, may not include caring for themselves so they can thrive, and not just survive during their caregiving experience.

The Southwind Extension District is joining the Wildcat Extension District and also Sedgwick County Extension in offering Powerful Tools for Caregivers. This educational program is designed to support family caregivers in taking better care of themselves while caring for a relative or a friend. The program can benefit participants who are helping a parent, spouse, child, friend or someone who lives at home, in a nursing home, or across the country.

The 6-session course will be offered virtually on Thursdays, January 14 – February 18, 2021, from 1:30-3:00 p.m. A $5.00 registration fee covers the postage for sending out the Caregiver Helpbook. The helpbook includes topics on: Hiring in-home help, helping memory impaired elders, making legal, financial, and care decisions, understanding depression, and making decisions about driving.

Caregiver tools provided as part of the sessions include: Helping the caregiver reduce stress; communicating effectively; encouraging ways for the caregiver to take care of themselves; reducing caregiver guilt, anger and depression; helping the caregiver to relax; making tough decisions; setting goals and problem solving.

Register online by going to https://bit.ly/tools4care or call the Yates Center Southwind office at 620-625-8620. Class size will be limited. Registering early will allow staff to help participants be able to participate virtually and to receive the Caregiver Helpbook prior to sessions beginning.

The program is being offered at a reduced cost thanks to partial funding by the K-State Research and Extension Adult Development and Aging Program Focus Team and the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas.

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

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

American Legion Post 25 Scuttlebutt

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Membership

American Legion Fort Scott Thompson-Harkey Post 25 is in 1st place in 2nd District membership. Today’s numbers have Post at 85 members or 111.84%.

This is Post 25’s third consecutive year at having Post membership above 100%.  Be proud of yourself and this milestone achievement.  I salute all members who made this possible.

If you have not yet renewed, please do consider doing so. Your dues support the Legion’s efforts advocating for Veterans and their families throughout Kansas and great country. The recently passed Blue Water Navy bill was the result of the Legion’s efforts to insure “Blue Water” Sailors and Marines could receive medical and pension benefits for exposure to Agent Orange.

Volunteer Needs

There will be a workday to start putting the Legion Room in Memorial Hall back together. The first workday is Friday, January 3rd at 10 am.

Baseball Chair for the 2020 American Legion baseball season. The 1st meeting for prospective teams is in late January. Post 25 has received a grant for $1,400 as seed money for this year’s team.  Unless we have a Baseball Chair to oversee the coaches and insure that Legion high standards towards sportsmanship and positive charter building are maintained, the grant money will be returned to the City of Fort Scott.

Upcoming Events

January 3. Workday at Memorial Hall. Starts at 10 am.

January 6. Post 25 meet and greet starts at 630 pm in Memorial Hall.

January 6. Post 25 general membership meeting starts at 7 pm in Memorial Hall.

January 16. American Legion Auxiliary Unit 25 meets at 600 pm in Memorial Hall.

January 16. American Legion Post 25 Color Guard meets at 730 pm in Memorial Hall. All Post 25 Legion family members can join the Post 25 Color Guard. This includes Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion Squadron members.

January 31 – February 2, 2020. Department of Kansas Midwinter Forum at Fort Scott.

 Informational Items

Kudos to our Legion Family members who “rang the bell” for the Salvation Army on December 17th.  100% of the donations contributed to the red kettle stay in Fort Scott. Bell ringers were Mary Tinsley, Bob and Pamela Belknap, Marilyn Gilmore, Diane Spencer, Myra Jowers, Darrell Spencer and Mike Hansen.

Several Post 25 Legionnaires and Auxiliary members visited Veterans at the Fort Scott Medicalodges on December 23.  Only about half of the Veterans residing at the Medicalodges were able to attend. Each Veteran received a Hallmark Christmas ornament and a stocking containing candy and some small personal items.

The Department of Kansas Sunflower for January – March 2020 is attached for your reading pleasure.

Post 25 will be hosting the Department of Kansas Midwinter Forum January 31 – February 2. Please mail in your reservation for the Filet Mignon dinner to be held at the River Room on Saturday, February 1. You can also bring your reservation to our general membership meeting on January 6th.  The reservation is in the Mod-Winter Forum attachment.

For more info:

Mid-Winter Forum at Fort Scott

sunflower2020q1

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

Home Energy Cost Assistance Available Jan. 16

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The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a Federally funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their home energy costs by providing a one-time per year benefit.

Locally,  at Community Christian Church, January 16th from 10 a.m. -2 p.m.  Evergy will have a representative onsite to help answer questions and assist people in signing up for this program.

 

 

LIEAP Frequently Asked Questions.

 

The 2020 LIEAP application period is from Thursday, January 2, 2020, through Tuesday, March 31, 2020. Applications must be received prior to 5:00 PM, March 31, 2020.

 

  • Print application available December 16, 2019.
  • Online application available January 2, 2020.

 

The following summary describes basic LIEAP eligibility provisions.  Additional information may be obtained by calling 1-800-432-0043.

 

Persons Eligible

In order to qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. An adult living at the address must be personally responsible for paying the heating costs incurred at the current residence, payable either to the landlord or the fuel vendor.
  2. Applicants must demonstrate a recent history of payments toward purchase of the primary heating energy.

 

The combined gross income (before deductions) of all persons living at the address may not exceed 130% of the federal poverty level according to the guidelines listed below:

 

2020 Income Eligibility Guidelines

Persons Living at the Address Maximum Gross Monthly Income
1 $1,354.00
2 $1,832.00
3 $2,311.00
4​ $2,790.00​​
5​ $3,269.00​
6​ $3,748.00​
7​ $4,227.00​
8​ $4,705.00​
9​ $5,184.00
10​ $5,663.00
11​ $6,142.00
12​ $6,621.00
+1    $479.00 for each additional person
​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefits

Benefit levels vary according to the following factors:

  • Household income
  • Number of persons living at the address
  • Type of dwelling
  • Type of heating fuel

 

Bourbon County, Business, Entertainment, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Want To Host A Chamber Coffee?

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Happy New Year!
We are now booking
Chamber Coffees for 2020! Chamber Coffees take place each Thursday at 8am and are a great way to promote your business or organization with approximately 40-50 people in attendance.
Click here for a current schedule and to view open dates.
Click here to email us your preferred date.
You might include a 1st & 2nd option in case your
choice is full by the time you request a date.
Click here for an overview of hosting a Coffee.
You may also call us vs. email with your preferred date or to go over any questions you may have about hosting.
Rita Schroeder, Administrative Assistant
Lindsay Madison, Executive Director
620-223-3566
Upcoming Chamber Coffee Schedule:
* 1/9Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, at the Chamber office, 231 E. Wall St.
* 1/16 Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries, at their office located w/the Bourbon County Senior Citizen Center, 26 N. Main St.
* 1/23 Walmart, in the Vision Center
* 1/30 My1Stop, at Empress Center, 7 N. Main St.
Bourbon County, Business, Government, Schools

Controversy Rises on Wind Farm Possibility In Bourbon County

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Photo from the Jayhawk Wind website.

The proposed wind turbine project in southwest Bourbon County has long term consequences for the economy of the area.

Jayhawk Wind, the wind energy company proposing the project, is looking to use 28,000 acres of land in the county to produce electricity in the region, including Bourbon and Crawford counties.

The Jayhawk Wind project is being developed by Apex Clean Energy.

Apex Clean Energy develops, constructs, and operates utility-scale wind and solar power facilities across North America. Their team of more than 200 renewable energy experts uses a data-focused approach, according to its website. Apex Clean Energy, Inc. is located at 310 4th St. NE, Suite 300, Charlottesville, VA  22902

To see the Bourbon and Crawford County’s  project analysis  and a Jayhawk Wind press release which was published recently on FortScott.Biz, click below:

Jayhawk Wind – Economic Development Report Final November 2019(2)

Jayhawk Eco impact report 12 2019(1)

 

Wind farm production in Kansas has helped to lower CO2 emissions, according to a National Public Radio (NPR) article.

Kansas’ lower emissions is largely due to the rapid adoption of wind energy and a slow move away from coal-powered electricity.

“With the fast growth of cheap wind-generated electricity in Kansas, it’s become less profitable to run coal plants,” according to the article.

Click below to view:

https://www.kcur.org/post/heres-why-kansas-co2-emissions-are-their-lowest-level-40-years?utm_medium=social&utm_term=nprnews&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=npr&fbclid=IwAR3kxuboA8mY22wFvsrDFLNxYuwkkGrtJYdjYB1Jym1vmpuCLo4wT5xU2bM#stream/0

Controversy

There is a local controversy building about the proposed wind energy project.

A meeting of opponents to Jayhawk Wind project is planned for  Bourbon and Crawford county residents, according to a press release.

The meeting is scheduled for  6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 9,  at Rodeway Inn, Ft. Scott, Ks.

On the agenda will be the organization of a formal opposition group, assistance from successful opponents of previous wind farms, and a discussion of potential and political avenues to stop the Jayhawk development.
Dane Hicks and Kim Simons will be speaking, according to Anne Dare, one of the concerned citizens who will be attending.
The meeting is open to the public.
Anyone concerned about the impact on home values and damage to the community’s natural rural vista by the project is asked to attend.
Contact: Kim Simons, 620-224-1215, [email protected]

 

Noise level and other issues have been questions the public has asked about the project.

 

Noise level is 50 dBa

 

Apex Clean Energy, says the noise is minimal.

“The majority of the sound produced from modern dynamic windmills will be limited to 50 decibels,  quieter than a refrigerator as measured at a nearby house,” according to Helen Humphries, Public Engagement Manager for Apex Clean Energy, Inc.

 

 

Other issues

To see community opinions on noise levels and other related issues at another wind farm site, view this Youtube from an Arkwright, NY wind turbine project controversy:

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6KhDrkoUVmc&fbclid=IwAR3YgITfI3VZriIVTHnVqVRgaMvxEE4Z-DNaZ7DtxPzOqrH6yP_5qSpoWks&app=desktop

 

There  are benefits

Some of the financial benefits go to landowners, schools and government entities, which are facing a decline in population and finances. The project will also provide some jobs: construction, operation, supply chain, and induced jobs.

Jobs

“Construction jobs only last during the construction of the wind farm,” Dr. David Loomis, professor of economics at  Illinois State University and co-founder of Center for Renewable Energy said in an interview with FortScott.Biz. Loomis is the author of the analysis. “Construction jobs last six months to a year, 318 jobs for the year (estimated). All estimates are full-time equivalency.”,

“Operational jobs…They last the life of the project,” Loomis said. “On-site wind turbine technicians, a site supervisor, some administrative support.”

“There will be supply chain jobs due to expenditures in the local economy…truck fuel, gravel, supplies, and other items.”

“The final category is induced jobs…spending, shopping, eating out, entertainment because of all other jobs created because people have more money to spend for that,” Loomis said.

“Induced long term jobs include landowners leasing their land, tax revenue going into the local economy, schools, county, so forth,” Loomis said.

Rural areas are hard hit economically.

“The agriculture sector has been hit hard over the last two cycles,” he said. “2005 was a great time to be on a corn or soybean farm, but they’ve gotten squeezed because of the rising costs of equipment and fertilization.  Oversupply caused a downturn.”

“Rural economies are hurting, individual farms are feeling this punch. This lease payment will take little land out of production but can help stabilize family farms. It’s a fixed payment to them.”

Currently,  Jayhawk Wind is leasing land from landowners in the area of southwest Bourbon County and northwest Crawford County,  Humphries said.

 

School District Benefits

“There is no revenue until 2032 due to the property tax exemption.,” Loomis notes in the analysis reports. “Starting in 2032, USD 235 will receive over $161 thousand annually for the general fund, over $225 thousand for the ‘Other’ Fund which totals to over $2.4 million and over $3.3 million respectively.”

Renewable energy facilities are exempt from property taxes for 10-12 years.

“Kansas recently changed the way that it taxes wind energy projects,” according to Humphries.” Before 2016, renewable energy generating facilities such as wind farms were exempt from property taxes according to K.S.A. 79-201. Since 2016, renewable energy generators are exempt from property taxes for only twelve years if owned by an independent power producer and ten years if constructed by a regulated public utility per K.S.A. 79-259. After this exemption period, the wind energy project will pay property taxes to all the taxing jurisdictions.”

 

Bourbon County Government Benefits

“Typically, wind developers in Kansas enter into a contribution agreement to voluntarily support the county during the 10 or 12 year exemption period, as we expect Jayhawk Wind to do,” Humphries said.  “Once the initial 10 or 12 year period as defined by state law concludes, the wind power project will increase the property tax base and create a new revenue source for education and other local government services, such as road maintenance, libraries, and cemeteries.”

To see other views on the school and local government issues, click below:

https://www.flatlandkc.org/farm-field/winded/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda Dec. 31

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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: December 31, 2019

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

10:00-10:30 – 2019 Budget Amendment Hearing

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

New Year’s Resolutions, How to Develop Fitness Goals into Good Ones

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K-State Research and Extension Southwind District Agent Joy Miller

 

620-223-3720 or [email protected]

 

 

Just rattle off how many pounds you want to lose, what pant size you want to wear, how much weight you want to squat, or the date you need to look photo-ready and you are on your way. That is how most people set goals. Typical resolutions and goals often lead to feeling lost, confused, overwhelmed, and crushed by ‘should’. Continue reading for tips on how to create your 2020 blue print to build the skills you need to reach your goal this year.

When someone is asked about their fitness goals, most people start with the outcome(s) they want: lose 20 pounds, six pack abs, binge less often, bench press a certain amount of weight. Outcome goals describe how we want things to be at the end of the process. There is nothing wrong with starting with the end in mind but we may not have control on how things turn out.

Set a behavior goal to focus on the things you do have control over. They represent your commitment to practice a particular set of actions or tasks every day, as consistently and regularly as possible. Examples: Lose weight (outcome), eat until satisfied instead of stuffed at each meal (behavior). Squat more weight (outcome), squat 3 times a week at various intensities (behavior). Want a better relationship with a partner (outcome), have a date night once a week (behavior).

Both outcome and behavior goals are trackable. Behavior goals are usually more effective because they give you something to do and track each day.

Avoidance goals, you know the ones-stop drinking soda, absolutely no sugar, stop smoking. Avoid goals are nice and straightforward, seems logical they would push you away from something bad or something that threatens what you want to achieve. This type of goal is a lot of psychological work, taking up mental and emotional real estate and energy. All you think about is what you are not doing or shouldn’t do but really want to do.

Turn avoidance goals into approach goals. Approach goals pull you toward something desirable, focus on feeling good or about doing good for ourselves. Revisiting the stop drinking soda (avoid) an approach solution could be drink a glass of water with meals each day, the benefit may be headaches are gone.

Performance goals are similar to outcome goals and usually associated with external validation such as wanting to get good grades or win a competition. Performance goals can be fun for a while, pushing yourself to be your best. It can also be demotivating if they don’t work out. Just like outcome goals, performance goals are often limited by factors outside your control. Performance goals also put our happiness and satisfaction in the hands of someone or something else. This may be pleasing a coach or parent, beating a competitor, social media likes, etc.

Instead of setting performance goals, create mastery goals that emphasize the process of getting a little bit better each day at a particular skill. Mastery is gratifying because no matter what others think or do, you can still feel good about your own personal progression. Mastery goals involve words like ‘work on’, ‘build’, and ‘practice’.

To help with your health and fitness goals this year, visit Southwind.k-state.edu for upcoming programs such as Stay Strong Stay Health and Walk Kansas. The Southwind District has other upcoming events and resources to help you work toward your goals of health, finance, and overall well-being.

Ascension Via Christi, Bourbon County, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, Fort Scott

CHC Looks At Feasibility to Preserve Mercy Hospital Building

2 Comments
Krista Postai

“After almost a full year of providing services in Ft. Scott, the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas wanted to take one last look at preserving the hospital building that was built to last through several generations. As you can imagine, transitioning almost 75 people and five clinics in a few short months was a very daunting task a year ago and, at the time, we were concerned about making it as seamless as possible. We were aware that our lease was only two years and that a long-term solution needed to be found and the easiest approach was to build from ground up. We have indeed started that process.

 

However, one can’t spend any time in Ft. Scott without realizing the impact the Sisters of Mercy have had on the community over the last century and how much their hospital meant to everyone – especially those who donated toward building it. With a year of history in the building, we thought it wise before we invested $5 million in building a new clinic, to evaluate what the actual costs of keeping the hospital building open have been. Without many of the services a hospital provides, the cost appears to have been far less than originally projected. In the meantime, there has been renewed interest in using portions of the space for health-related purposes as evidenced by the meeting held in Ft. Scott a few weeks ago.

 

As a result, CHC/SEK is doing a feasibility study to determine exactly what it will take to preserve the facility from destruction. We have approached the Mercy System about the possibility of acquiring the building and they have responded positively. At this point, everything is very preliminary and no formal ask has been made.

 

This is something we can’t do alone. We have also approached other possible major tenants in the building including Ascension/Via Christi and may have enough to sustain and maintain the facility. Again, everything is in the discussion stages with no firm commitments or contracts. We will also be talking with the city and county over the next few weeks. The last thing we want to do is raise false hopes so please know this is just an evaluation of what may be possible.

 

I will be presenting a recommendation to my Board at their January 16th meeting. Time is of the essence so a decision whether to formally approach the Mercy System for the donation must be made prior to February 1. Two building projects have already been initiated for a new clinic and an new ER and decisions have to be made quickly if we are going to reverse course.  That leaves little time to work out all the details and talk with everyone so my apologies to anyone who we may miss over the next few weeks.

 

We do want people to be aware of our efforts and will be happy to talk to anyone with an interest that we haven’t already spoken with.  The concept of a ‘medical mall’ is a promising one but, at this point, is only an idea. The best way to reach me is via email at [email protected].”

Submitted by:

Krista Postai

President & CEO

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

3011 N. Michigan

Pittsburg, KS 66762