Category Archives: Bourbon County
February Uniontown 4-H Report
The Uniontown 4-H club met on Sunday, February 14 2021 via zoom. There were 11 members and 3 leaders present. The club recognized all members that participated in 4-H Days, which was held via zoom on Saturday, February 4th.
Senior Reading – Bareigh Farrell – Top Blue.
Intermediate Reading – Kendyl Bloesser – Top Blue, Seth Shadden – Blue, and Hailey Shadden – Blue
Junior Reading – MaKinlee Bloesser – Red.
Intermediate Demonstration/ Illustrated Talk – Austin Maycumber – Top Blue.
Senior Instrumental – Bareigh Farrell – Top Blue
Senior Vocal Solo – Bareigh Farrell – Top Blue.
All participants receiving a top blue are able to move on to Regional 4H Days on March 6, 2021.
Beef tag-in is Wednesday, March 10, 2021, at Bourbon County Fairgrounds from 4 pm – 6 pm. Sheep, Meat Goat, and Swine Tag in: Wednesday, April 28 at the Bourbon County Fairgrounds. Also, Bourbon County Born animals need to be identified at tag-in to be eligible for that class. The next Uniontown 4H meeting is to be held on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 6:00 p.m.
Submitted by Kendyl Bloesser, Club Reporter
Uniontown City Council Agenda For March 9
CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by _____________________________
ROLL CALL: ___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Charles Wehry
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Personal Service Insurance, Loren & Matt Korte
CITIZENS REQUESTS
FINANCIAL REPORT
Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports
APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA
A. Minutes of February 9, 2021 Regular Council Meeting and February 18, 2021 Special Council Meeting
B. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan
Dog bite
Clerk Report: Sally Johnson
Citywide yard sale – May or August
Meter Deposit Refund –
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin –
Councilwoman Esslinger –
Councilman Hartman –
Councilwoman Kelly –
Councilman Wehry –
Mayor Jurgensen –
OLD BUSINESS
Whether to pass on gas daily gas prices in February to customers –
Utility Hearings –
NEW BUSINESS
Uniontown City Council Unapproved Minutes of Feb. 18
The Special City Council Meeting on February 18, 2021 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman (by phone), Amber Kelly, and Charles Wehry. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Joe George, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
To Discuss and make decisions on the following topics:
KMGA February 17, 2021 invoice – Invoice consisted of usual March 2021 estimate prepayment, January 2021 true up, but also included a Collateral Call to reimburse for the $1,000,000 cash collateral required to secure gas to all of their members through the holiday weekend. Our portion of the collateral call is $6,295. Invoice is due by Monday, February 22, 2021 instead of the usual 30 days.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Wehry, Approved 5-0 to pay the KMGA February 17, 2021 invoice in the amount of $10,178.22 by March 22, 2021
How to pay KMGA March Invoice – Council reviewed the usage to date and the daily indexes to date. Clerk Johnson estimates the bill to be $133,678.47 without the collateral call adjusted back off. She will ask KMGA if the collateral call will be adjusted on the next billing and if we could possibly get a month-to-date or weekly statements/invoices to better understand the true financial impact for the month. Council will look at whether to pass on to customers, how much, and in what manner at the March 9, 2021 regular meeting.
Finalize emergency procedures for this gas/extreme weather emergency. Mayor Jurgensen, Councilman Wehry, Superintendent Rich, and Clerk Johnson met on February 16, 2021 with Will Wallis, Bourbon County Emergency Manager, and Commissioner Lynne Oharah.
Bourbon County Emergency Management has cots, blankets, etc needed to set up a warming station. Clerk Johnson had spoken with Bret Howard, Superintendent USD #235, about using the WBE gym for a warming station in the event of loss of gas. It was verbally agreed on. A calling tree has been set up to notify gas customers in the event of loss of gas.
Superintendent Rich informed that manpower would be an issue if this occurred. All gas meters would have to shut off and when flow was reinstated all meters would have to be turned on, bled, and all pilots lit. This would require several people if to be done in a timely manner and each person would have to have to proper tools to complete the task. It was suggested to compile 4-5 tool kits with all the tools that would be needed.
The emergency procedures for a loss of gas event would be:
- Notify Bourbon County Emergency Management and USD 235.
- Notify Governing Body to implement calling tree. If no answer, visit the location. If they have special needs or need transportation they are to call City Hall.
- Shut off meters.
- Help transport citizens to warming station.
- End of event, an adult household member must be present to turn on gas, bleed lines, and light pilots.
Council also approved a public statement:
As many of you have heard, with the extreme cold we have recently experienced, gas prices have skyrocketed. At this time the City of Uniontown is able to pay for the gas we supply to you. However, a portion of this may have to be passed on to you. We have an emergency plan if for some reason our gas supplier is unable to supply us. We appreciate all of the conservation efforts you have put forth and ask that you continue to conserve. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 8:40PM
Uniontown City Council Unapproved Minutes of Feb. 9
The Regular City Council Meeting on February 9, 2021 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Charles Wehry. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Mark Warren, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Smoothwall firewall & guest internet connections, Mark Warren – Mark started out going over all the technology that has been added. He gave a quick tutorial on the function of the Smoothwall firewall and presented options for allowing access to WIFI by guests.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to allow guests open WIFI access with acceptance of terms and conditions before connection
CITIZENS REQUEST
None
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger presented the January Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $401,098.47, Receipts $70,486.17, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $19,809.54, Checking Account Closing Balance $448,749.10. Bank Statement Balance $453,583.25, including Checking Account Interest of $36.11, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $4,834.15, Reconciled Balance $448,749.10. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $26,921.23, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $17,390.08, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $23,221.60, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $516,282.01. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $36.11 and Utility CDs $0 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $36.11. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of January 2021, Beginning Balance $225.33, Receipts $197.23, Expenditures $197.23, Ending Balance $225.33. January Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.00, from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00, for Total Transfers of $3,026.00. Net Income for the month of January $47,650.63, Year-to-Date Net Income $47,650.63. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $8,828.46 (8.8%), Expenditures $6,048.52 (4.9%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $3,048.49 (8.8%), Expenditures $1,969.31 (4.5%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $20,260.03 (15.7%), Expenditures $7,280.52 (2.2%); General Fund YTD Revenue $33,588.86 (45.6%), Expenditures $6,834.21 (4.2%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $1,734.33 (29.0%), Expenditures $0 (0.0%). The February 2021 estimated payables in the amount of $46,224.68 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda including:
- Minutes of January 19, 2021 Regular Council Meeting
- Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
Mark Warren gave an update on the medical clinic. Building is ready. They are looking for a local nurse practitioner. They will be open three days a week to begin.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent Rich reported that the steel basketball backboard was received and installed. Clerk Johnson reported that the backboards were donated by the school. A partial payment by the vandal has been received.
The amount of water kept in the tank was discussed. He will keep the tank at a level to accommodate weather and fire protection.
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that letters regarding the dog bite were sent to the owner of the dog and to the complainant. We have received no response from the Smith Estate regarding the punch list letter from our attorney.
Clerk Johnson stated that the Park Committee would like for their funds to be used for a dedicated pickleball court with a fence at 105 Third St. It was also suggested to consider 210 Sherman St as it already has a cement slab. She will look into measurements for the court and measurements of the lots suggested and the cost of building/fencing a court.
A contract for 2020 financial audit was received from Diehl, Banwart, Bolton.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to accept contract from Diehl, Banwart, Bolton for 2020 financial audit
Clerk Johnson received an inquiry about citywide yard sale. It was decided to have ours the weekend before or the weekend after Fort Scott has theirs. Citywide cleanup was also discussed. It was decided that due to amount of misuse of the service last year that we will not host a citywide cleanup this year.
The Cornhole project based learning group notified us that the target date to complete the project is April 1. Clerk will send a response to have someone from the group and their project teacher contact Superintendent Rich about placement and timing.
A voting delegate needs to be selected for KRWA.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Wehry, Approved 5-0 to appoint Bobby Rich as KRWA voting delegate
A Notice of Conditional Renewal was received from EMC regarding communicable disease exclusion endorsements on the general liability coverage.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – nothing
Councilman Wehry – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – nothing
OLD BUSINESS
Liquor Sales and Sunday CMB Sales – an ordinance authorizing the retail sale of liquor and an ordinance authorizing Sunday sales of liquor and CMB was presented.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Wehry, Approved 5-0 to adopt Ordinance No. 190 authorizing the retail sale of alcoholic liquor within the city limits of Uniontown, Bourbon County, Kansas
Motion by Kelly, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to set the biennial occupation tax at $200 on Ordinance No. 190
Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to adopt Ordinance No. 191 authorizing Sunday sales of alcoholic liquor and cereal malt beverage in the original package within the city limits of Uniontown, Bourbon County, Kansas
Ordinance No. 191 must be published two consecutive weeks on the same day of the week, allow for a 60 day petition period, and, if petitioned, put before the voters before becoming effective. If no petition filed, the ordinance will become effective April 22, 2021.
SPARK funding – Clerk Johnson still has not received a ship date on the service window. The $225.33 left in the project account is for reimbursement of expenditures between March and June of 2020. These funds were transferred to the general fund February.
NEW BUSINESS
Water Rate Increase – a notice of a 5% rate increase from Consolidated RWD #2 was received. Treasurer Bolinger and Clerk Johnson presented some options on passing the increase on to our customers.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to accept Option B, increase minimum charge 5% (to $25.69 inside city limits, $26.87 outside city limits) and usage charge 5% (to $11.56 inside city limits, $12.10 outside city limits) and adopt Ordinance No. 192 repealing Ordinance No. 188, relating to water rates and amending any previous ordinances or resolutions setting forth water rates for the City of Uniontown, Kansas
Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 8:47PM
Bourbon County Commission Agenda For March 9
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: March 9, 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 COMMISSION ROOM. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.
Call to Order
- Flag Salute
- Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
- Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
- SEKRPC
- Discussion-Does the county want to take hay bids for Elm Creek
- Health Insurance for 2022
- Discussion regarding Dispatch
- Lora Holdridge – Roads
- County Counselor Comment
- Public Comment
- Commission Comment
Fruit Tree Dormant Oil Application
District Extension Agent, Horticulture
Southwind Extension District
111 S. Butler
Erie, KS 66733
Office: 620-244-3826
Cell: 620-496-8786
Winter is still holding on, although I’m optimistic that spring might be within sight. Hopefully we will get some nice warm days here in March since February didn’t have very many to offer us. When we do, have your dormant oil sprays ready for application.
There are a number of dormant sprays used on fruit trees and other plants to control various diseases and insects. However, a dormant oil spray is designed to control scale insects, aphids and mites. Just like the name implies, dormant oils are applied before the tree begins to bud. Dormant oil sprays are important because some pests attack before visible growth even begins. If you have a problem with scale, now is the time to start watching the weather and look for an opportunity to spray.
Scale insects can be seen easily this time of year since there a no leaves. Scale insects are easily overlooked because they are small and immobile most of their lives, and they do not resemble most other insects. Many of them resemble small shells that are oval or circular. Coloring varies but can include white, tan and brown. Plants that should be inspected for scales include apple, pear, other fruit trees, lilac, crabapple, oak, ash, elm, maple, arborvitae, juniper, pine, spruce, euonymus and yew.
Plants are not harmed if only a few scales are present, but scale population can increase dramatically during the growing season. Heavy scale infestations can damage fruit crops, destroy branches and kill entire plants.
Normally sprays should be applied around March 1, especially with peaches and nectarines. Apples are tougher and application may be delayed up to the green tip stage. Temperatures need to be at least 40 degrees so spray has a chance to dry before freezing. If the spray does freeze before it dries, plant injury can occur. Applying the spray during the morning will help insure that it dries properly. It is much easier to achieve good spray coverage if the tree is pruned before spraying.
The Extension office has several publications outlining the fruit spray schedule for the entire growing season.
Now is an excellent time to prune. Pruning can be done in March. Prune on days when the temperature is above 20 degrees to prevent injury. Prune older trees first because older, larger wood tolerates lower temperatures than young trees with small diameter wood.
If your trees are overgrown, out of control and you just don’t know where to begin, stop by the Extension office and pick up a pruning publication. This publication offers step-by-step instructions on pruning overgrown trees and it also has nice diagrams.
Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Agricultural agent assigned to Southwind District. She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.
K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Thinking About Retirement? What is Your Mental State on the Topic?
Most often financial preparedness comes to mind when we think about retirement. There are a lot of variables that can create a big gray area in knowing if you have put enough back to live comfortably and do the things you have longed to do in retirement.
Feeling financially prepared can relieve a lot of worry and lends to the thought there will be smooth sailing in retirement. However, we may not be giving enough consideration to our mental preparedness toward retirement.
Retirement is an exciting adventure for most. The term liberation comes to mind. There may be a sense of freedom to do what you want when you want and the ability to start tackling your bucket list. It’s a major transition – moving from a structured work life as you are “getting a new life.” Be prepared to be patient with yourself and those in your household who are experiencing this “new life” transition along with you.
Being productive and having purpose is important in retirement. Getting that all figured out is a normal process for retirees. Having some hobbies in place before retirement is helpful in creating that sense of purpose. Give thought to volunteer opportunities that may be available. Be vigilant in concentrating on those undertakings that are important to you. Volunteering can fill a void and foster new relationships and environments to spend productive time. On the other hand, committing to too much can be overwhelming and taxing on your health.
When considering retirement, it is important to be aware of the effects retirement might have on your most meaningful relationships. Being together with your loved ones more frequently can be wonderful but may also be too much at the same time. The key is to talk about your fears, expectations, and concerns with your loved ones and friends ahead of time. Some helpful questions to consider discussing with family members and close friends include:
- When I retire, I picture spending my time doing ______. How do you feel about that? How/when would you like to be involved?
- What would you like for us to accomplish together once I retire?
- How do you picture balancing our personal space/personal interests with participating in joint activities or socializing together once I retire?
Our expectations and assumptions for retirement may not match up with those we plan to spend time with. There may be expectations that more time together will be automatically accepted. That may not be the desired outcome for one of the parties. It’s good to get those out in the open prior to transitioning.
Retirement can be a rollercoaster of emotions and adventures, both fun and nerve-wracking. Not only are you leaving something, you will be starting something new. There will likely be not one but many transitions. Prepare yourself mentally for the unexpected. Realizing that ups-and-downs are likely to happen, and that it is okay, will help in re-establishing your sense of purpose and assist in enjoying retired life.
K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Art Is Ageless Contest Announced
Starlite FCE Minutes of Feb. 25
Starlite FCE
February 25, 2021
The February meeting of the Starlite FCE was held at the Yeager building at the Fairgrounds. President Glenda Miller called the meeting to order and Joyce Allen led the members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the Club Collect. Nine members were in attendance, they reported that they had volunteered for four hours and had recycled sixty pounds of cardboard.
The minutes of the precious meeting were read and approved. Doris Ericson presented the treasurer report. Glenda Miller passed out the new membership roll and informed us Sekan will except cardboard on Mondays.
Jackie Warren reported that as of now we are planning to have an Open Class at the Fair this year and asked for a show of hands of those who would be able to help.
New Business consisted of planning an Easter party for Tri-Valley. It was decided to make bunny bags and fill with treats and to has an egg hunt. Everyone is to bring wrapped candy to place in eggs and bags.
Deb Lust moved that the meeting be adjourned, Doris Ericson seconded the motion, motion carried, meeting adjourned. After the meeting Deb Lust presented a program on Character Counts- Responsibility. Doris Ericson and Deb Lust provided refreshments of cake, M&M and water, which were enjoyed by all.
Prepared by
Terri Williams
Jayhawk Wind Project Breaks Ground This Week
The Jayhawk Wind farm facility breaks ground this week and is expected to be operational later this year, according to a press release from Apex Clean Energy, the developer.
The project will consist of 70 General Electric wind turbines totaling an installed capacity of more than 190 MegaWatts. The project will provide more than 115 construction jobs and seven long-term operations positions—and will generate over $20 million in landowner payments and $27.2 million in tax revenue, according to the press release.
The following is an email interview with Patrick Chilton, Apex Public Engagement Manager.
Apex sold to WEC yet you will be doing the construction and operating of the windmills?
“Apex Clean Energy has not been sold to WEC Energy Group. Jayhawk Wind, the wind project developed by Apex in Bourbon and Crawford Counties, has been sold to WEC Energy Group and Invenergy.
“The power produced by the project will be injected into the Southwest Power Pool grid, the electric grid network that serves Bourbon and Crawford Counties.
To learn more about the Southwest Power Pool: https://spp.org/
“Facebook signed a contract to purchase the power from Jayhawk Wind after the previous power purchase agreement (PPA) was mutually dissolved. The tech company will buy that power to help support its operations in the region.”
Facebook is a valued Apex customer, according to a Bloomberg Business press release about the transaction:
Apex sold to WEC but will still construct and operate the farm?
“Apex Clean Energy will manage the construction of Jayhawk Wind on behalf of its new owners, and IEA Constructors will perform all of the engineering, procurement, and construction needs of the project.
“Under this contract, IEA will be responsible for working to hire subcontractors, vendors, and local personnel. Upon completion of construction, Invenergy will take over operations.
“IEA Constructors is a subsidiary of IEA that manages utility-scale renewable energy and heavy civil infrastructure projects. They will perform all of the engineering, procurement, and construction needs of the project,” according to Chilton.
A question was asked if Apex was planning on selling Jayhawk Wind from the beginning?
“Yes. Our plans to work with a financing counterparty on Jayhawk Wind have been a part of our discussions with the community since the beginning of this project. Apex is honored to help design and permit excellent projects like this one for companies that want to support and own renewable energy facilities. We believe WEC and Invenergy will be wonderful long-term partners for this community.”
You will be hiring locals, so where is the info if someone is interested in seeking a job with Jayhawk Wind.
“Jayhawk Wind has been running a local vendor program, which is ongoing.
“More information about this program is available at https://www.jayhawkwind.com/local_vendor_program.
“Through this program, local contractors and vendors have been signing up to let us know they are interested in supporting the construction of Jayhawk Wind.
“As promised, we have been preparing to share this information with the Balance of Plant contractor. We have continued to aggregate a locate vendor list throughout development and vendors are welcome to continue to submit their information on our website for consideration.
The Balance of Plant (BoP) is a power engineering term that refers to the various supporting and auxiliary components of a power plant system required to produce energy, according to https://ifsolutions.com/what-is-balance-of-plant-in-power-plants/
“Now that IEA has been selected as the Balance of Plant contractor, we will be sharing our local vendor directory with them directly.”
K-State Extension Crop, Forage Management Agent Needed
K-State Extension has a Crop, and Forage Management career opportunity in Southwind District.
The primary office location is negotiable between Iola, Erie, Fort Scott and Yates Center.
See https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/jobs/current_openings/index.html for responsibilities, qualifications and application procedure.
The application deadline is March 17, 2021.
K-State Research Extension is an EOE of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.
A background check is required.
From the website:
The Southwind District is comprised of Allen, Bourbon, Neosho and Woodson Counties in southeast Kansas. There are 2,314 farms and more than 112 million acres of pasture and crops growing primarily soybeans, corn, wheat, and a diverse selection of native and introduced forages. The population of the district is 46,048. The district is home to Neosho County Community College, Allen Community College, and Fort Scott Community College, as well as ten public school systems. Southwind staff are housed in four office locations and include eight agents, four specialized office professionals, and one 4-H program assistant.
Extension agents are community-based faculty of Kansas State University who make a difference by connecting community needs with university resources. Agents are administratively responsible to the local extension director and the local extension board.
This position will provide primary leadership for the development and implementation of research-based educational programs related to production, management, and marketing issues involved in crop production, especially forages. Programs will include but are not limited to tillage, planting, and variety selection; irrigation; weed, disease, and pest control; soil testing and fertilization; harvesting and post-harvest handling.
Extension agents are professional educators who serve as a link between Kansas State University and communities across Kansas. Agents are administratively responsible to the Director of K-State Research and Extension (represented by a designated administrator) and the local extension board.
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| What You’ll Need to Succeed: | Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Other Requirements:
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| Salary, Benefits, and Professional Development: |
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| How to Apply: | Please submit the following documents:
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| Screening of Applications Begins: | Applications will be accepted until March 17, 2021 |
| Equal Employment Opportunity: | Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans and actively seeks diversity among its employees. |
| Background Screening Statement: | In connection with your application for employment, Kansas State University will procure a Background Screen on you as part of the process of considering your candidacy as an employee. |
