Category Archives: Bourbon County
Mapleton Residents Invited to Community Forum on Town Improvements
City of Mapleton Invites Community to Share Input on Park and Ballfield Improvements
MAPLETON, KS — The City of Mapleton, in partnership with the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT), invites all residents to a Community Forum on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM at 565 Eldora Street, Mapleton, KS.
This forum is part of a broader effort supported through Pathways to a Healthy Kansas, a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas® (BCBSKS) initiative. With Pathways funding, HBCAT and the City of Mapleton are working to extend sidewalks around Mapleton City Park and renovate the Mapleton Ball Park to support physical activity, community connection, and quality of life.
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the quality of life in Bourbon County. HBCAT works to increase access to physical activity, healthy food, promote commercial tobacco cessation, enhance quality of life, and encourage economic growth. Its community-driven approach helps create a healthier, more vibrant region for all.
The event will feature a short presentation, a brief survey, and small group discussions. Residents will have the opportunity to share their ideas, concerns, and vision for improvements to Mapleton’s public spaces.
“Your input is vital to ensure these projects reflect what Mapleton residents truly want and need,” said Jody Love, President and CEO of HBCAT. “Whether it’s better lighting, more seating, or ballfield upgrades, this is your chance to be heard.”
Residents are encouraged to complete the survey ahead of time at: https://forms.gle/1h7w3xFLv18QxUFc6. All survey participants will be entered into a raffle for a $100 gift card.
Refreshments will be provided. Families are welcome. For more information, visit the City of Mapleton website or contact Jenny Layes at [email protected].
About Pathways to a Healthy Kansas
Pathways to a Healthy Kansas is the largest community grant program ever funded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. The Pathways program provides community coalitions with the tools and resources needed to remove barriers and engage their communities in ways that improve active living, healthy eating, behavioral health and commercial tobacco prevention. For more information, visit bcbsks.com/pathways.
About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas
For more than 80 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas has built a reputation of trust with its members and contracting providers by providing outstanding customer service while quickly and accurately processing claims; fairly administering benefit plans and contracts; offering programs, services and tools to help members improve or maintain their health; and operating under the highest ethical standards while being good stewards of premium dollars. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and is the state’s largest insurer, serving all Kansas counties except Johnson and Wyandotte. For more information, visit bcbsks.com.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. BLUE CROSS®, BLUE SHIELD® and the Cross and Shield Symbols are registered service marks of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.
About the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT)
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the quality of life in Bourbon County, Kansas. Through a collaborative, equity-centered approach, HBCAT works to increase access to physical activity, healthy food, promote commercial tobacco cessation, enhance quality of life, and foster economic growth. By building strong partnerships with residents, community groups, and local governments, HBCAT is helping to create a healthier, more vibrant region for all.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. BLUE CROSS®, BLUE SHIELD® and the Cross and Shield Symbols are registered service marks of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. HBCAT is leading the Pathways initiative in Bourbon County and is not affiliated with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas.
Commissioners Discuss Animal Control in July 7 Meeting
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Public Hearing Plaster Road Vacation
The commissioners approved resolution 2325 vacating Plaster Road. No one came to the meeting to speak in the public hearing.
Old Business
Dissolution of Zoning Advisory Board
The bylaws of the board state that the committee will be dissolved after their presentation to the board of commissioners. Commissioner David Beerbower moved to approve resolution 2425 to dissolve the board. The motion passed.
Employee Benefit Committee
The commission approved resolution 2525, establishing a committee to assist in making decisions regarding the insurance provided to county employees. The committee will be made up of several county employees and some elected officials, and will meet with the county’s insurance broker quarterly. This resolution repeals resolution 1925.
Resolution 2625, appointing a parliamentarian appointed to fulfill resolutions 0925, 1025, and 1125 for the orderly and effective conduct of county commissioner meetings was also approved.
Animal Control
Beerbower looked into property owned by the county that could be used for animal control purposed. The commission discussed using a portion of the county’s property on Native Road, the former dump, near Oakgrove Cemetery. This was in response to a county citizen in a previous meeting saying she would be willing to apply for grants and work to get animal control up and running in Bourbon County. That person was not at the July 7 meeting.
Some audience members expressed concern about the landfill use time restriction. The project is awaiting legal counsel regarding the feasibility of using the proposed land, and a group to come forward to take on the project.
“There is definitely a need in this county, county-wide,” said Beerbower, since the county has no animal control and the city has no room to partner with the county to house homeless animals.
Milburn suggested a county effort to spay and neuter, possibly partnering with someone else on the job, but an audience member pointed out that one problem with that is proof of ownership for those animals brought in to receive such services.
Beerbower suggested using the county’s grant research people to look for more money to meet the need for animal control in the county.
Stronghold
Commissioner Mika Milburn, said that the county has an internal contract with Stronghold to service computer needs. They cover Fort Scott as well, and will be on site Mondays and Fridays to work out any kinks. There will be a meeting at 4:30 Thursday with Stronghold, the City of Fort Scott, and Bourbon County.
Cameras
Beerbower proposed a security camera use policy that he wants to incorporate into the employee handbook.
The county currently doesn’t have a camera policy and, “I think we need one…we face liability if we don’t have some type of policy in place,” said Beerbower.
The item was tabled to the 21st for time to gather information.
Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
Pete Owenby asked the commissioners about the hospital. Greg Motley came to the table to address the commission and answer questions. Motley serves on the Freeman Fort Scott Board of Directors.
He said that the construction is “virtually done.” They were held up by modifications needed on the proprietary fire suppression system, but that has been completed. The next step is approval from state and federal inspectors.
“Freeman has done everything they can,” said Motley. He is impressed with what he’s seen of Freeman personnel.
Legacy still owns the building behind the ambulance building. It has fallen off the radar since the previous county attorney left his position, but was supposed to be deeded back to the county.
The new attorney, Bill Johnson, will look into it.
New Business
Policy & Procedures
Beerbower proposed a memorandum for a temporary policy regarding hiring and terminating employment. There is no policy on hiring in the handbook at present. The termination policy is in the handbook as a disciplinary action. There is also no job performance evaluation policy in the handbook at this time. Beerbower’s proposed memorandum would be an interim set of guidelines until the policy handbook is complete.
“I’m astounded that this wasn’t in place previously,” said Commissioner Samuel Tran.
Milburn suggested consulting the HR firm that the county uses. Beerbower agreed and moved to table the item until July 21.
Commission Comments
Milburn received some hate mail this week and addressed the senders in a written statement.
Tran agreed with Milburn, saying that the executive sessions may seem frustrating, but there are rules they must follow.
“The three of us are doing the best that we can,” he said. “There’s a lot of people within this county that are doing a really, really good job.”
He thanked the clerk, treasurer, and others involved for their work on the budget.
“We’ll keep pushing,” and doing more for the county he said.
Beerbower said he supports freedom of speech, and said that, “As Americans we should have common respect for each other.”
Regarding litigation with solar, it’s common knowledge and public information that they are reaching a settlement. Once that’s complete and signed, the public will have access to the information. “There has been no deal made,” as of this time, he said.
Agenda Packet for the Uniontown City Council on July 10 at 7 p.m.
ROLL CALL: ___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett ___ Bradley Stewart
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
CITIZENS REQUESTS
FINANCIAL REPORT
Sally Johnson – Financial reports
APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA
- Minutes of June 10, 2025 Regular Council Meeting
- June Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & June Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan
202 4th St- Mowing and Overgrown Weeds
306 Washington St- Mowing and Overgrown Weeds
406 Fulton Street- Mowing and Overgrown Weeds (nuisance vehicle?)
405 Hill Street-letter sent to owner with requested repairs needed & mowing
Smith Estate-falling down shed & tin roof
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
Clerk Report: Danea Esslinger
Junk Vehicle Citation-Citation given on 6/13/25
Keys made for all Council Members
Dakota Harrison/Lilly Wright Final Bill not paid-CBK to collect?
Diehl, Banwart, Bolton, CPA-new audit agreement
KMGA Choose Director & Alternate-
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin –
Councilman Kelly –
Councilwoman Pemberton –
Councilwoman Pritchett –
Councilman Stewart–
Mayor Jurgensen –
OLD BUSINESS
SEED Grant – have received all supplies ordered, and some work is complete, but still an ongoing project for
the City Library and City Office
FEMA Flooding–Ag Engineering did stop the Hydrology Study. Conference call with Carlise Jones, new FEMA Project
Manager, he stated will send the mitigation project on to be approved or disapproved without the Engineer Hydrology Study.
Sidewalk-Letter sent to Rainbow Organic Farms, but not picked up, another letter sent to owner’s home address.
Park electric –Kelly Electric will work on this project soon.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by _____________, Second by __________, Approved ______, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at ____________.
Attachments:
How Federal Education Funding Freeze Will Effect U235 School District
All American schools, including local schools, will be impacted by the funding freeze that President Trump has directed the U.S. Department of Education to delay, pending a review.
USD235 Superintendent Vance Eden remains hopeful that the Trump administration will unfreeze funds, enabling schools to continue operations as authorized by Congress, he said.
Here is his statement
“The Uniontown USD 235 School District receives federal “Title” funds to support students. Currently, the Trump administration has directed the US Department of Education to delay reimbursement of some of these funds until a review can be completed. These Title funds aren’t a single lump of money, but instead are received by the district with individual designations for individual purposes. While we don’t qualify in all categories, the following three specifically apply to Uniontown.
- Title IIA- These funds can be used to reduce class sizes and were initially used to add a teacher, and that position has continued to be paid with Title II funds. Our allocation for the coming year is $25,222. While not all funds the district receives can be used for teacher salaries, this can and has been a meaningful part of our budget and the goal of maintaining a quality salary schedule. The removal of this funding stream will make it more difficult to continue this practice.
- Title IVA- These funds can’t be used on people and but instead are used primarily on safety and security items and also things that “extend the curriculum.” Our next year allocation was set at $17,492. While most are likely unaware if anything in their classroom has been purchased with these funds, the reality is that probably all of them have had some benefit. I manage these funds and purchase qualifying items throughout the school year as teachers submit requisitions that can qualify. As an example, field trips, science experiment supplies, digital cameras for the yearbook team, a pottery wheel, the window display at WBE, and a good chunk of the smartboards in the district are all things that have been purchased with these funds over the past few years. These funds invite creativity and foster a robust and quality learning experience. Losing these funds directly impacts our ability to maintain this commitment in the future without cutting from other areas or increasing the mill levy (which no one wants).
- Title IVB- These funds pay for the WBE after-school program and summer program. Without this allocation, the district will not be able to afford to continue to offer this to students and parents.
We also receive Title I funds, which are used to support math and reading support at WBE. These funds are stated to still be usable for the coming year. This is good news as it represents our largest area of allocation and would be extremely difficult to adjust for in its absence.
I’d encourage you to visit with our federal legislators during this period of review to help them consider this change in direction and priority, as ultimately, they SHOULD control the disbursement of funds. Most likely, none of us enjoys making these contacts, but I want you to be informed and involved, as these decisions will affect us all.”
To contact your elected representatives, according to the Bourbon County, KS website:
US Senator
Roger Marshall – (R)
PO Box 1588
Great Bend, KS 67530
(202) 224-4774
Jerry Moran – (R)
PO Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
(620-232-2286
Derek Schmidt
1223 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-6601
Revised Agenda for the Bourbon County Commission Meeting Today, July 7
BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County, Kansas
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
July 07, 2025, 5:30 PM (Revised)
I. Call Meeting to Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Prayer
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approval of Minutes from 06.30.25 & 07.01.25
IV. Consent Agenda
Approval of 06.24.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $110,518.99
V. Public Hearing 5:35 Plaster Road Closing
VI. Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to
protect their privacy.
VII. Old Business
Zoning Advisory Board – Milburn
Fence Viewing Resolution – Beerbower
Juvenile Detention– Beerbower
Stronghold Update – Milburn
Housing agreement with Johnson County – Beerbower
Ealyn Taylor – Animal Control – Beerbower
Public Works Safety Audit – Dr. Cohen
Cameras – Beerbower
VIII. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
IX. New Business
Resolution for the Cancellation of Outstanding Checks – Susan Walker
KAC Convention – Beerbower
Audit Agreement for Fiscal Year Ending 2025
Policy & Procedures – Beerbower
X. Commission Comments
XI. Adjournment
Future business that has been tabled in past meetings or planned for future meetings:
Economic Development Direction
911 Agreement
Precinct Legal Resolution
Doherty Health Benefits review – Executive Session August 2025
NRP Update July 14th
Courthouse Repairs August 4th
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their
privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which would be
deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in
consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations,
partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to 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
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.
The Bourbon County Commission Agenda Packet For July 7
The Bourbon County Commission will meet on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Commission Chambers located in the Bourbon County Courthouse, 210 S. National Avenue. This meeting is open to the public.
In addition, the Budget Advisory Committee will meet on July 9, 2025, at 4:30 PM in the Commission Chambers located in the Bourbon County Courthouse, 210 S. National Avenue. This meeting is open to the public.
Susan E. Walker, Bourbon County Clerk
BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County, Kansas
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
July 07, 2025, 5:30 PM
I. Call Meeting to Order
Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
Prayer
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approval of Minutes from 06.30.25 & 07.01.25
IV. Consent Agenda
Approval of 06.24.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $110,518.99
V. Public Hearing 5:35 Plaster Road Closing
VI. Old Business
Juvenile Detention– Beerbower
Housing agreement with Johnson County – Beerbower
Ealyn Taylor – Animal Control – Beerbower
Public Works Safety Audit – Dr. Cohen
Cameras – Beerbower
VII. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
VIII. New Business
Resolution for the Cancellation of Outstanding Checks – Susan Walker
KAC Convention – Beerbower
Audit Agreement for Fiscal Year Ending 2025
Policy & Procedures – Beerbower
IX. Commission Comments
X. Adjournment
Future business that has been tabled in past meetings or planned for future meetings:
Economic Development Direction
911 Agreement
Precinct Legal Resolution
Doherty Health Benefits review – Executive Session August 2025
NRP Update July 14th
Courthouse Repairs August 4th
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their
privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which would be
deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in
consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations,
partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to 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
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.
Selection Criteria: Vendor =
Bank =
Batch =
Due Date = 7/3/2025
Invoice Date =
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
00Dept: Non-Departmental
016Fund: APPRAISERS
$64.35APPRAISER CONTRACTUAL
SVCS
6116237908 ACCT#00010 APPRAISER PHONES 5/18-6/17VERIZON WIRELESS
1Fund: 016 – APPRAISERS Invoice Count and Total: $64.35
027Fund: GENERAL EQUIPMENT RESERVE FUN
$8,992.80EXPENSE
DISBURSEMENT
INV046008 EQUIPMENT FOR FREEMAN HOSPITAL
FORT SCOTT
CASSLING
($2,709.46)EXPENSE
DISBURSEMENT
RTN007063 RETURN FOR INVOICE#INV045990 FOR
EQUIPMENT MOVING
CASSLING
2Fund: 027 – GENERAL EQUIPMENT RESERVE FUND Invoice Count and Total: $6,283.34
062Fund: ELECTION
$30.23ELECTION CONTRACTUAL
SVCS
075135 FUEL REIMBURSEMENT FOR ELECTION
TRAINING IN ERIE
SUSAN WALKER
1Fund: 062 – ELECTION Invoice Count and Total: $30.23
064Fund: EMPLOYEE BENEFIT
$875.00CONTRACTUAL SERVICESINV-38587 QUARTERLY 7/25-9/25LUCET
1Fund: 064 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT Invoice Count and Total: $875.00
108Fund: LANDFILL
$234.21LANDFILL COMMODITIES0198-360420 FILTERS #154O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$7,776.77LANDFILL CONTRACTUAL SVCS31450 MSW 6/12 – 6/18/25ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS
$5,925.96LANDFILL CONTRACTUAL SVCS31464 MSW 6/20 – 6/25/25ALLEN COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS
$46.47LANDFILL COMMODITIES433445 FUEL TRANSFER HOSE #154LOCKWOOD MOTOR SUPPLY, INC.
$90.54LANDFILL COMMODITIES433702 OIL FILTER/FUEL-WATER SEPARATOR #154LOCKWOOD MOTOR SUPPLY, INC.
Page 1 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
00Dept: Non-Departmental
108Fund: LANDFILL
$75.00LANDFILL CONTRACTUAL SVCS8426 PORTA POTTY RENTALSKITCH’S HAULING&EXCAVATION INC
6Fund: 108 – LANDFILL Invoice Count and Total: $14,148.95
220Fund: ROAD AND BRIDGE
($5.00)ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-356866 CORE RETURNO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$144.34ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-356948 BELTS #151O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$154.19ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-356950 BELTS #151O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$7.63ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360046 6/20/25 RELAY #145O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
($9.93)ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360067 GREASE UNION RETURNO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$279.99ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360601 REFRIGERANTO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$391.37ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360722 COOLANT HOSES/OIL/ANTI FREEZ #196O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$17.08ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360730 HOSE CLAMPS/OIL #196O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$233.30ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360788 RADIATOR #196O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
($195.57)ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360795 RADIATOR RETURNO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$27.54ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360798 AIR FILTERS #9O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$49.27ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360881 OIL FILTER/OIL #10O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$59.01ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360882 AIR FILTER/WIPER BLADE #10O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$75.98ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360970 WIPER BLADES #10O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
($43.18)ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360990 WIPER BLADES RETURNO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$44.99ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-360995 LEAK DETECTORO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$382.83ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES0198-361467 MANIFOLD GASKET/FUEL INJECTOR #190O’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$885.00ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES09P60210 VALVE BODY #155TRI-STATE TRUCK CENTER, INC
$61.46ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES12842021 WHEEL SPEED SENSOR #85HERITAGE TRACTOR, INC.
$1,252.13ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES2462098 6/3/25 ACTUATOR #198MURPHY TRACTOR & EQUIPMENT CO
$79.40ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES36266 BLADE/GLASS CLEANER/TOWELS #14IOLA AUTO PARTS, LLC
$1,365.00ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES39059 TILT CYLINDER #201MID AMERICA HYDRAULIC REPAIR, INC.
Page 2 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
00Dept: Non-Departmental
220Fund: ROAD AND BRIDGE
$200.77ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES433551 HOSES/COUPLINGS #M85LOCKWOOD MOTOR SUPPLY, INC.
$75.54ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES50561 TOWELS/GLASS CLEANER/FUEL
TREATMENT GRADER
IOLA AUTO PARTS, LLC
$1,651.17LEASE – PRINCIPAL59617-7-2025 2021 SANY PAYMENTKS STATEBANK
$566.02ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES60-0875442 ADVANCE GR-A1 TIRES T148HESSELBEIN TIRE OF OKLAHOMA
$40.01ROAD & BRIDGE
CONTRACTUAL SVC
6115683107 BILL SUMMARY 5/11 – 6/10/25 ACCT00003VERIZON WIRELESS
$4.49ROAD & BRIDGE COMMODITIES70383 1/8 X 2-1/2 FLAT X 3JUDY’S IRON & METAL, INC.
$150.00ELM CREEK CONTRACTUAL8426 PORTA POTTY RENTALSKITCH’S HAULING&EXCAVATION INC
$245.00ROAD & BRIDGE
CONTRACTUAL SVC
8426 PORTA POTTY RENTALSKITCH’S HAULING&EXCAVATION INC
$56.33ROAD & BRIDGE
CONTRACTUAL SVC
9127625636 6/23/25 ELECTRIC AT SHOP (NORTH BUILDING)EVERGY
31Fund: 220 – ROAD AND BRIDGE Invoice Count and Total: $8,246.16
222Fund: ROAD & BRIDGE SALES TAX FUND
$75.00R&B SALES TAX
CONTRACTUAL SVCS
8426 PORTA POTTY RENTALSKITCH’S HAULING&EXCAVATION INC
1Fund: 222 – ROAD & BRIDGE SALES TAX FUND Invoice Count and Total: $75.00
257Fund: SHRF TRUST FORFEITURE 7/1/19
$1,398.00CONTRACTUAL SERVICES17007 3 DAY CRIMINAL INTERDICTION
WORKSHOP
RELENTLESS LLC
1Fund: 257 – SHRF TRUST FORFEITURE 7/1/19 Invoice Count and Total: $1,398.00
387Fund: ADDICTION SETTLEMENT FUND
$230.30CAPITAL OUTLAY7/1/25 MILEAGE:329@$0.70/MILEPATH OF EASE ASSOCIATION
1Fund: 387 – ADDICTION SETTLEMENT FUND Invoice Count and Total: $230.30
45Dept: 00 – Non-Departmental Invoice Count and Total: $31,351.33
Page 3 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
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Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
01Dept: COUNTY COMMISSION
001Fund: GENERAL FUND
$2,500.00COMMISSION CONTRACTUAL
SVCS
47883 NETWORK ASSESSMENTSTRONGHOLD DATA LLC
$130.49COMMISSION CONTRACTUAL
SVCS
6116237909 ACCT#00011 COMMISSION PHONES 5/18-
6/17
VERIZON WIRELESS
2Fund: 001 – GENERAL FUND Invoice Count and Total: $2,630.49
2Dept: 01 – COUNTY COMMISSION Invoice Count and Total: $2,630.49
Page 4 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
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Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
07Dept: COURTHOUSE MAINTENANCE
001Fund: GENERAL FUND
$260.05GENERAL COMMODITIES1663353736 TRASH BAGS/FOOD BAGS/GORILLA
TAPE/PAPER TOWELS
CAPITAL ONE
$617.82GENERAL COMMODITIES55791683-00 COND MTR/CAPACITOR OVAL/CAPACITOR
ROUND
LOCKE SUPPLY CO.
2Fund: 001 – GENERAL FUND Invoice Count and Total: $877.87
2Dept: 07 – COURTHOUSE MAINTENANCE Invoice Count and Total: $877.87
Page 5 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
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Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
10Dept: DISTRICT COURT
001Fund: GENERAL FUND
$111.98DISTRICT COURT
COMMODITIES
566310-0 PAPERETTINGER’S
$1,900.00DISTRICT COURT
CONTRACTUAL SVC
7/1/25 JULY CONTRACTDOMONEY & DOMONEY
$2,100.00DISTRICT COURT
CONTRACTUAL SVC
7/1/25 (1) JULY CONTRACTGREGORY, GILBERT E
$1,900.00DISTRICT COURT
CONTRACTUAL SVC
7/1/25 (2) JULY CONTRACTGREGORY, GILBERT E
$600.00DISTRICT COURT
CONTRACTUAL SVC
7/1/25 (3) JULY CONTRACTGREGORY, GILBERT E
$1,900.00DISTRICT COURT
CONTRACTUAL SVC
7/1/25 JOSH JULY CONTRACT JOSHBASELEY LAW OFFICE LLC
$2,100.00DISTRICT COURT
CONTRACTUAL SVC
7/1/25 TERRA JULY CONTRACT TERRABASELEY LAW OFFICE LLC
7Fund: 001 – GENERAL FUND Invoice Count and Total: $10,611.98
7Dept: 10 – DISTRICT COURT Invoice Count and Total: $10,611.98
Page 6 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
11Dept: EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
001Fund: GENERAL FUND
$155.08EM. PREP. CONTRACTUALSVCS203755 7/1/25 EM MGMT:VOIP/INTERNET/CABLE/VOICE
SERVICES
CRAW-KAN TELEPHONE CO.
1Fund: 001 – GENERAL FUND Invoice Count and Total: $155.08
1Dept: 11 – EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Invoice Count and Total: $155.08
Page 7 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
15Dept: I T
001Fund: GENERAL FUND
$2,681.49I/T CONTRACTUAL SVCS203755 7/1/25 COURTHOUSE:VOIP/INTERNET/CABLE/VOIC
E SERVICES
CRAW-KAN TELEPHONE CO.
$74.13I/T CONTRACTUAL SVCS6116237903 ACCT#00002 I/T PHONES 5/18-6/17VERIZON WIRELESS
$56,140.00I/T CONTRACTUAL SVCSPSI40874 ANNUAL PEOPLEWARE AGREEMENTCIC
3Fund: 001 – GENERAL FUND Invoice Count and Total: $58,895.62
3Dept: 15 – I T Invoice Count and Total: $58,895.62
Page 8 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
24Dept: AMBULANCE SERVICE
375Fund: AMBULANCE SERVICE
$300.00VEHICLE MAINTENANCE0001706 EMS#1 TOWDAVE’S TOWING & RECOVERY
$159.58VEHICLE MAINTENANCE0198-360769 EMS#1 OIL/OIL FILTERO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$77.27VEHICLE MAINTENANCE0198-360810 EMS#1 OIL/OIL FILTERO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
($159.58)VEHICLE MAINTENANCE0198-360824 EMS#1 OIL/OIL FILTER RETURNSO’REILLY AUTO PARTS
$372.32TELEPHONE EXPENSES205355 7/1/25 EMS CABLE/VOICE SERVICESCRAW-KAN TELEPHONE CO.
$478.71ELECTRICITY-UTILITIES9079952521 6/27/25 405 S WOODLAND HILLS BLVDEVERGY
6Fund: 375 – AMBULANCE SERVICE Invoice Count and Total: $1,228.30
6Dept: 24 – AMBULANCE SERVICE Invoice Count and Total: $1,228.30
Page 9 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
30Dept: NOXIOUS WEED
200Fund: NOXIOUS WEED
$4,345.90CHEMICALS236505 CHEMICALSVAN DIEST SUPPLY COMPANY
1Fund: 200 – NOXIOUS WEED Invoice Count and Total: $4,345.90
1Dept: 30 – NOXIOUS WEED Invoice Count and Total: $4,345.90
Page 10 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
43Dept: COURTHOUSE GENERAL
001Fund: GENERAL FUND
$62.89CONTRACTUAL
SERVICES
08-2093-01 6/27/25 108 W 2ND STCITY OF FT SCOTT UTILITIES DPT
$330.20CONTRACTUAL
SERVICES
08-2227-01 6/27/25 210 S NATIONAL AVECITY OF FT SCOTT UTILITIES DPT
$29.33CONTRACTUAL
SERVICES
1217143248 6/27/25 STREET LIGHTSEVERGY
3Fund: 001 – GENERAL FUND Invoice Count and Total: $422.42
3Dept: 43 – COURTHOUSE GENERAL Invoice Count and Total: $422.42
Page 11 of 137/2/2025 3:30:52 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
$110,518.99Grand Total:70Invoice Count by Dept:
Open Invoices – Dept/Fund. Totals
Dept Fund Amount
00 Non-Departmental
$64.35016 APPRAISERS
$6,283.34027 GENERAL EQUIPMENT RESERVE FU
$30.23062 ELECTION
$875.00064 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT
$14,148.95108 LANDFILL
$8,246.16220 ROAD AND BRIDGE
$75.00222 ROAD & BRIDGE SALES TAX FUND
$1,398.00257 SHRF TRUST FORFEITURE 7/1/19
$230.30387 ADDICTION SETTLEMENT FUND
$31,351.33
01 COUNTY COMMISSION
$2,630.49001 GENERAL FUND
$2,630.49
07 COURTHOUSE MAINTENANCE
$877.87001 GENERAL FUND
$877.87
10 DISTRICT COURT
$10,611.98001 GENERAL FUND
$10,611.98
Page 12 of 137/2/2025 3:30:53 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
Invoice Invoice Amt
Open Invoices By Department Summary Bourbon County
PO Purchase DescriptionVendor Name Account Charged
11 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
$155.08001 GENERAL FUND
$155.08
15 I T
$58,895.62001 GENERAL FUND
$58,895.62
24 AMBULANCE SERVICE
$1,228.30375 AMBULANCE SERVICE
$1,228.30
30 NOXIOUS WEED
$4,345.90200 NOXIOUS WEED
$4,345.90
43 COURTHOUSE GENERAL
$422.42001 GENERAL FUND
$422.42
$110,518.99Grand Total:
Page 13 of 137/2/2025 3:30:53 PM
AmberOperator:Report ID: APLT24B
RESOLUTION _______
BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
VACATION OF ROAD
WHEREAS, the Board of Bourbon County Commissioners of Bourbon County, Kansas, has proposed to
vacate a road pursuant to K.S.A. 68-102; and
WHEREAS, the vacation request is located in Hiattville, Kansas, and is described as follows:
60’ road of 128 th between lot 5 sub of lot 1 block 8 & lot 2 of block 8, Hiattville, Kansas.
WHEREAS, notice of said proposed vacation has been given by the County Clerk as required by K.S.A. 68-
102; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to K.S.A. 68-102, the Board of County Commissioners is given authority to vacate;
and
WHEREAS, said vacation consists of less than two consecutive miles, as required by statute.
NOW THEREFORE be it resolved by the Bourbon County Kansas Board of Commissioners, 60’ road of
128 th between lot 5 sub of lot 1 block 8 & lot 2 of block 8, Hiattville, Kansas be hereby vacated.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Commission hereby instructs the County Clerk to publish this
resolution for two consecutive weeks in the Fort Scott, Tribune and a certified copy of this resolution is
to be filed and recorded in the office of Register of Deeds and with the Office of Public Works of
Bourbon County, Kansas.
BE IT RESOLVED this _________ day of _____________, 2025 by the BOURBON COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS.
BOURBON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF
BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
Attest: ________________________________
Mika Milburn-Kee, Commissioner
___________________________ ________________________________
Susan E. Walker, County Clerk David Beerbower, Chairman
________________________________
Samuel Tran, Commissioner
RESOLUTION _______
BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
Cancellation of Warrants
WHEREAS, K.S.A. 19-320 states whenever any county warrant, issued to any person, remain in the office
of the county clerk unclaimed for a period of three years from the date thereof, such warrant shall be
returned by him to the board of county commissioners and canceled.
WHEREAS, the list of checks are older than three years totaling $9,550.31.
NOW THEREFORE be it resolved by the Bourbon County Kansas Board of Commissioners:
Request that the County Clerk cancel the listed checks totaling $9,550.31 that are older than three years
from the date of this resolution.
BE IT RESOLVED this _________ day of _____________, 2025 by the BOURBON COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS.
________________________________
David Beerbower, Chairman
Attest: ________________________________
Mika Milburn-Kee, Commissioner
___________________________ ________________________________
Susan E. Walker, County Clerk Sam Tran, Commissioner
Check
Number Date Vendor Amount
Check
Number Date Vendor Amount
505990 03/30/18 DOUGLAS COUNTY CORRECTIONS 50.00$ 513839 01/29/21 TRANSLATIONPERFECT.COM 280.00$
506067 04/04/18 BOURBON COUNTY CLERK 25.00$ 514059 03/12/21 ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE 225.00$
507195 08/17/18 O’BRIEN ROCK CO. 300.00$ 514098 03/12/21 GALEN C BIGELOW, JR. 645.00$
507729 10/26/18 MERCY KANSAS 49.00$ 514437 04/23/21 TRANSLATIONPERFECT.COM 420.00$
508228 01/04/19 LAWRENCE, JOSHUA 16.00$ 514443 04/23/21 WEST PAYMENT CENTER 1,137.00$
508801 03/15/19 MCKAY, SARAH JO 6.48$ 514535 05/07/21 TODD A NORRIS 269.14$
509967 08/02/19 NEW JERSEY MOTOR VEHICLE COMM 15.00$ 514646 05/21/21 TODD A NORRIS 269.14$
510077 08/16/19 KRUGER, AUSTIN 8.33$ 514876 07/02/21 CWDAK 125.00$
510520 10/11/19 SKYLIGHT FINANCIAL 10.00$ 515008 07/16/21 J & W SPORTS SHOP 48.00$
511419 02/14/20 TRANSLATIONPERFECT.COM 442.50$ 515194 08/13/21 KANSAS ASSOC.OF COURT SVC.OFF. 135.00$
511480 02/28/20 KANSAS ASSOC.OF COURT SVC.OFF. 270.00$ 515291 08/27/21 KANSAS ASSOC.OF COURT SVC.OFF. 135.00$
511654 03/27/20 DEPT OF MOTOR VEHICLES 5.00$ 515430 09/10/21 RUDDICK’S, INC. 200.00$
512248 06/19/20 FORT SCOTT QUIK LUBE 78.74$ 515614 10/08/21 KELLER, JEFFREY M 72.92$
512736 08/28/20 KEY INDUSTRIES, INC. 113.88$ 515993 12/03/21 CAPITAL ONE 447.02$
512898 09/25/20 DURATECH, USA, INC. 254.27$ 516269 01/14/22 CULLIGAN OF JOPLIN 211.97$
513253 11/06/20 TEAHOUSE VISUALS 300.00$ 516270 01/14/22 CWDAK 300.00$
513361 11/20/20 RYAN’S GARAGE 572.00$ 516722 03/11/22 DUROSSETTE’S TIRE SERVICE 250.00$
513405 12/04/20 GIRARD TARPS INC 17.90$ 516913 03/25/22 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY 10.00$
513431 12/04/20 MILLER FEED & OIL 33.93$ 516943 04/08/22 BTX KS INC 24.78$
513599 12/31/20 KANSAS SENTENCING COMMISSION 230.00$ 517232 05/06/22 KULLY SUPPLY 17.00$
513608 12/31/20 MURPHY TRACTOR & EQUIPMENT CO 877.50$ 517338 05/20/22 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY 10.00$
517517 06/17/22 JOPLIN TRAILER SALES INC. 642.11$
ACH 05/20/22 AUBREY HAWPE 0.70$
9,550.31$
Quadruplet Hair Sheep Born on Brock Farm
Matt and Sally Brock started Brock Farms in Bourbon County in 1994.
On June 23, the farm had its first set of Katahdin Hair Sheep quadruplet lambs born.
Katahdin hair sheep provide a practical option to producers who are primarily interested in raising a meat animal, with great lamb vigor, mothering ability and do not want to shear or are no longer able to find shearers, according to https://katahdins.org/
“In the 1970s, someone bred an African Hair Sheep with an English Suffolk Sheep,” Brock said. “It sheds its hair in the summer. The wool industry became unprofitable, so in America, it changed to meat sheep.”
The recent quadruplet lambs were taken to the barn for extra care and fed for two weeks, he said.
“The decision was made to separate one lamb for bottle feeding. The other three lambs and momma were put back on the pasture with the rest of the herd for grass grazing on July 1. All lambs are healthy.”
“The sheep farm has also raised five sets of triplets, but the ewes normally have twins or singles. Statistically, it is said a quad birth is 1 in 500. Their goat herd has produced two sets of quads from Kiko and Nubian goats in past years as well.”
About the Brock Farm
“The sign on the barn came from the original Kansas Brock Farm established in 1879 in Buffalo, KS. The one on the ground behind Mary came from my Dad’s farm in Humboldt, KS. All three farms had sheep in their livestock history,” Matt Brock said.
Brock Farms comprises 300 acres near Redfield and currently has 100 hair sheep ewes raising around 150 lambs yearly. They have four dairy goats. The family works together to care for the herds.
“We started with cattle and switched to sheep in 2010,” Matt Brock said. “When we sold cattle, we got 30 Kiko breed goats and 30 Katahdin hair sheep. We decided that hair sheep is what we preferred to put on our pasture. The dairy goats are more of a hobby farm.”
They give about two farm tours a month, he said.
Meet the Bourbon County Republican Party Chairperson, Kaety Bowers
Faith, Family, Freedom
Submitted by Gregg Motley
One must spend very little time with Kaety Bowers to discern the drive, the leadership skills, and the passion that motivates her every day. Behind those desirable qualities is a person who earned her stripes through hard knocks, failure, and the faith to get back up again and keep trying. How did this capable party chairperson transition from a small Western Kansas town in a home led by a single mother to leadership in Bourbon County?
Anyone with a pulse and a social media account in Bourbon County knows how difficult the political arena has been inside the county and some its incorporated towns. Disagreements on weighty issues facing us, along with questionable choices and methods displayed by some of our elected officials have left a significant number of local voters jaded and cynical. Into that maelstrom stepped Kaety Bowers to preside over a party that was struggling to recruit good candidates and support those in office.
Perhaps it was her challenging early years that gave her the courage and confidence to step into the role. Ms. Bowers excelled in school, so much so that she earned a full-ride scholarship to the University of Kansas. Fate had another destiny for her, as marriage at a young age, motherhood and a desire to serve others in the beauty industry changed her course. During her career in the industry, she noticed that unlicensed operators were victimizing those in unfortunate circumstances, such as cancer patients, over-charging them and giving them poor results. Ms. Bowers took her concerns to the state capital and fought for regulation and licensing for these unscrupulous vendors. She learned to navigate the halls of the capital, and a political career was born.
Political success requires a drive that is committed to principles that form the core of a person, and Bowers is an excellent example of this truism. To a mother who is raising a family, education is a critical element of the development of her young charges. When the large school district in which her family lived began to make questionable choices, Bowers became an organizer of parents who wanted to make a difference. The process helped her hone her leadership skills, and her passion for the issues led her to a successful run for school board of this giant district, eventually ascending to the role of vice president of the board. She soon began consulting with Republican Party leaders and helping political candidates with their campaigns.
It was natural for Bowers to get involved in party politics when her family recently moved to Bourbon County. Republican Party members soon recognized the drive, leadership and passion possessed by Ms. Bowers and selected her for Chairperson of the party in 2024. Soon after taking office, she was faced with redistricting to add two county commissioners, the resignation of two existing commissioners and the inevitable strife that results from leadership voids. Bowers has met the challenges by consulting with past leaders, seeking the advice of those who are currently active and calling upon her years of experience.
Bowers has a vision for the future of Bourbon County, which centers around our youth. Her desire is to engage youth leaders in schools and other organizations to educate and inspire our young people to engage pollical activities and get personally involved. Bowers notes that she was blessed to have faith-based mentors as a youth and into her young adult years to guide her into productive, caring choices that have motivated her involvement over the years. She would like to see concerned citizens of Bourbon County fill that role for our young people. Her plan is to create active roles for youth in our political structures, provide scholarships for deserving achievers, and get them involved and voting.
As for the future of struggling rural communities, Bowers points to technology and leveraging the resources we have. We must ask the question, “Why do people move here and why do people stay?” We must understand why people choose a Bourbon County lifestyle and invest in making it better. We must create structures that encourage ideas, creativity and dreams. If we do not, we will be passed by and devolve into more complaining and backbiting. We must work together on these issues.
In the end, it is all about the faith which informs us, the family which motivates and supports us, and the love of freedom which keeps us working together. With these core values, Bowers has used her drive, leadership skills and passion to cast a bigger, better vision for Bourbon County.
State of Kansas v. Dawson James Mitchell in Bourbon County: Hard 50 Life Sentence Affirmed
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June 30 Bourbon County Commission Meeting, Part 2
The Bourbon County Zoning Recommendation Committee presented its report and recommendations to the county commission.
Old Business
Zoning Recommendation
“It is this committee’s recommendation to proceed with limited zoning for Bourbon County, Kansas,” read Brian Ashworth, presenting to the commission for the zoning recommendation committee.
The committee, made of members from throughout Bourbon County, met for 6 weeks and held three town halls as well as other communication with county residents as they researched and formed their recommendations.
The report reads, “The implementation of zoning will help preserve productive farm and ranch lands from unfettered development of large-scale industrial and commercial projects.”
The report also says that zoning policy needs to be forward-thinking and comprehensive.
The committee proposed three types of zones: Agricultural (A1), Large Commercial (C1), and Large Industrial (I1). It also acknowledged that there could be a need for transitional zoning around the cities.
The committee reports recommends that the county begin by zoning all of the county A1. Outside of agriculture, residential, personal use, or small local business, Conditional Use Permits (CUP) or rezoning would be required. Landowners will need to submit to the zoning commission for a CUP or zoning change to use the land for anything above a certain threshold.
The report also recommends limited, comprehensive zoning to protect personal property rights, saying that checks and balances need to be put in place to avoid unnecessary expansion of zoning regulations.
All current land uses should be grandfathered in with no phase-out clause, per the report.
People do not want codes and are concerned that they will need a permit to build barns or other structures on their property. No building codes should be implemented beyond those required for large-scale commercial and industrial projects, said the committee.
Citizens are concerned about the environmental impact of solar panels and batteries near their properties. The committee recommends that the county incorporate environmental and property value studies into the requirements for large-scale industrial and commercial developments. They also recommend including reasonable set-back and visual barrier requirements and a thorough review and standards set. Safety concerns, property encroachment, loss of property value all should be considered.
The committee also recommends that the county consider establishing a limit on the amount of land that may be allocated for large-scale industrial developments in the county.
They also recommended using a reputable planning firm to limit the cost of zoning to the county.
Addressing the concern about the loss of tax revenue that may occur if zoning drives business away, the committee said that zoning should be business-friendly, and studies may need to be done on how to encourage economic growth.
Zoning should not create a barrier for temporary events.
Resources the committee used and recommended to the commission include the American Planning Association website and the Kansas Practical Guide to Zoning and Land Use Changes website.
Commissioner Samuel Tran thanked the committee members for their diligence in forming the recommendations.
Commissioner David Beerbower also thanked them and said, “we will not take the recommendations lightly.” The commission will move forward with work sessions and public hearings as they decide what will happen in Bourbon County regarding zoning.
New Business
Truck Bypass Route
Matthew Wells, city commissioner for Fort Scott, spoke to the county commission on behalf of the city of Fort Scott about some proposed projects. He said that they have been working on a TEAP (Traffic Engineering Assistance Program) Study of truck routes in and around Fort Scott. As a result, KDOT is recommending a truck bypass on 240th Street out to JayHawk, putting in a roundabout using KDOT funds. KDOT also want to build a train overpass funded by federal, state, and railroad funds
KDOT is looking into how much it would cost to make those changes to handle truck traffic, especially during flooding that closes the highway and train traffic causing truck backups.
Currently, there is no bypass truck route in Fort Scott.
Precinct Legal Descriptions-Susan Walker
County Clerk Susan Walk, who is also the elections officer explained to the commission that the redistricting caused the need for eight new precincts within the townships, affecting how the people vote. Legal descriptions need to be completed in July and approved by the state of Kansas. They also must be published for three weeks in a row before the next election.
The commission approved her request for time with GIS to try to create the maps.
Commission Comments
Commissioner Mika Milburn, speaking about perception, said it varies from person to person regarding how to get the county where it needs to be.
“I believe all the moves the commission is currently making is in good conscience to move Bourbon County in a healthy, sustainable direction,” she said. “You can trust me to be authentic and lean on morals.”
“This job has blessed me with a greater resilience,” she concluded. “Thank you Bourbon County.”
“The people in this county are amazing,” said Tran. He said he is working with a great team at the county and the people of Bourbon County should be proud of their neighbors.
He also said that people watching the meetings see the decisions that the commissioners make, but they don’t see the choices, or lack thereof.
June 30 Bourbon County Commission Meeting, part 1
The Bourbon County Commissioners received the 2024 audit report for the county from Emily Frank of Jarred, Gilmore & Phillips.
Bourbon County has chosen to follow the Kansas Regulatory Basis of Accounting instead of General Accounting Principles and received an “unmodified opinion,” which means the audit was clean. The county had no cash or budget violations in the 2024 audit.
The county started 2024 with $4,149,000 of unencumbered cash. Total receipts for the county in 2024 were $17,949,000, and expenditures were $18,414,000, resulting in an ending unencumbered cash balance of $3,686,000.
Frank gave the commissioners information to help with budget creation for 2026.
She recommended that the general fund have at least 90 days’ cash on hand to be safe. “But a little bit extra would be better,” she said.
“The last two years you guys have had some pretty big decreases in your general fund,” she said, $120,000 in 2024 and $167,000 in 2023. She said that the commission will need to find ways to increase income and decrease spending to prepare for emergencies, as they go through the process of creating the 2026 county budget.
The Public Safety fund also needs watching, she said. It was at an unencumbered cash balance of $268 at the end of 2024. “This fund probably is going to need some help over the next couple of years to kinda get to a little bit more comfortable position,” said Frank. The Public Safety fund was supplemented with transfers from the general fund in 2024.
Road and Bridge also had a low cash balance of $12,000.
In 2024, several funds were amended, including Road and Bridge, Bridge and Culvert, Appraiser, Election, Employee Benefit, Landfill, and the Emergency Service Sales Tax Fund.
County bonds and lease debts total $3,824,000, and the county paid $235,000 in interest in 2024.
Executive Session for personnel matters of individual, non-elected personnel resulted in a vote to approve a deviation from policy to allow the public works director to work HR, as explained within the written documentation for this one occurrence.
Old Business
Juvenile Detention
Commissioner David Beerbower moved to cancel the county’s membership with the Gerard Juvenile Detention Center and adopt juvenile detention with Johnson County on a case-by-case basis.
Commissioner Mika Milburn asked if the county attorney had weighed in on the contract.
The item was tabled until next week, when the county attorney’s opinion can be given.
District 4&5 Term Limits
County Clerk Susan Walker told the commission that they need to pass a resolution regarding the changeover from 3 to 5 commissioner districts. One of the new district commissioners will serve a one-year term, and the other a three-year term. This is so that in an election cycle, either 2 or 3 of the commission seats will be up for re-election, but no more.
Milburn, who currently represents District 3 will be representing District 5 after being re-elected. This means that District 3’s seat will be vacated and require an appointment at the beginning of 2026.
Commissioner Samuel Tran said that switching out people too quickly causes a loss of historical knowledge. The commission has been in turmoil lately. Tran wants to keep at least one person in for a longer term to build continuity.
Tran made motion that district 5 commissioner will serve a three year term and district 4 will serve a one year term.
Both the candidate for new districts 4 and 5 are running unopposed.
The commission approved Tran’s motion as resolution 2125, Milburn abstaining.
SEK Mental Health Resolution and Letter of Support
Resolution 2225 will repeal the old resolution funding SEK Mental Health and have the commission sign a letter of support for SEK Mental Health. The resolution passed.
Courthouse Repairs
Tran looked over repair recommendations and saw a lot of maintenance that had fallen through the cracks with a price tag of more than $1 million.
He thinks the number may be high and wants a much more detailed proposal so the commission can verify the numbers and make better decisions.
“It’s ultimately by job to be a steward of your money,” Tran told the audience.
“Even if the county could or would fund this amount, doing so without a line-item bid is not recommended,” he said. He also said the county should have an on-site project manager for the work that needs to be done. Tran also wants to get input from the people who use the building.
“We need to break this down. We need small bites,” he said.
Tran expressed the need to formalize how the county procures goods, services, and equipment.
Milburn moved to give Tran the authority to go through the building with a hand-picked team of volunteers to see what’s needed to care for the county buildings to report back to the commission on Aug. 4. The motion was approved.