Category Archives: Bourbon County

Bourbon County

Fort Scott Commission Declines Continuum of Care Grant for Transitional Housing

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The Fort Scott City Commission voted 4–1 on July 13 to decline a Continuum of Care grant that would have had the city acquire and operate the former convent building as a transitional housing project.

The vote came during a continued special meeting, where the grant was the central agenda item. The proposal — known as BridgePoint Community — would have used federal Continuum of Care funding to renovate the building into a transitional housing facility for people experiencing homelessness.

City Manager Brad Matkin opened the discussion by reading a prepared statement opposing the plan. He said his objection was not to transitional housing itself, but to the city owning and operating such a facility: grant funding is temporary, he noted, while the long-term operating costs would ultimately fall on taxpayers. A qualified nonprofit, he argued, would be better positioned to run the program.

Commissioner Julie Buchta then moved to reject the grant. “Our first decision, in my opinion, is that we disapprove this consideration, continuum of care grant,” she said. Commissioner Tim Van Hoecke seconded, and the motion to reject the grant passed 4–1. Commissioner Matthew Wells cast the lone dissenting vote, saying that even if he had been inclined to vote yes, he had already been outvoted.

Commissioners said the proposal felt rushed, raised concerns about the building’s location near an elementary school and Gunn Park, and felt the scale of the project was too large for the city to take on.

An extended public comment period followed, with residents and operators of existing transitional-housing programs sharing their perspectives on homelessness in Fort Scott — including personal recovery stories and calls for the community to keep working on the issue through other approaches.

Bottom line: the grant will not move forward. The city will not submit the application to acquire and operate the convent building as a transitional housing project.

Special Meeting Agenda — July 13, 2026 (PDF)

Bourbon County, Fair, Food, Youth

2026 Bourbon County Fair Started Today: Join The Fun

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Today was the start of the county fair, the culmination of the work that 4-H’ers put into their projects.
Most of the action was in the Myers Building, with people bustling to have their items entered into the competition.
Each 4-H Club creates a diorama for competition which is on display in the Cloverleaf Event Center.
Another 4-H diorama.
Another diorama in the Cloverleaf Event Center.
The Myers Building was busy with people entering their exhibits on Monday afternoon.

Open Class exhibitors enter their art work.

People went to different stations in the Myers Building to enter their items.
Exhibitors of all ages were entering their projects in the Myers Building on Monday afternoon.

 

All indoor exhibits and open class exhibits were entered, in addition to 4-H and Open Class Market Animals, Poultry and Rabbits.
Judging was completed on the indoor exhibits in the Clover Leaf Event Center.
Karlee Hereford, Northeast Scott 4-H Club Member, readies her goats for the Bourbon County Fair on Monday afternoon.
Karlee’s Dad, Jake Hereford hands his daughter a bale of hay for feeding to her goats. The 17-year-old has been in 4-H for eight years.
Market animals were weighed, ready for the judging to start this week.
The following schedule for tomorrow’s activities is provided by Emelia Whiteaker, vice president of the Bourbon County Fair Association.
Tuesday, July 14th at the Bourbon County Fair, located on Horton Street in Fort Scott.
The tables are ready for fairgoers and participants to enjoy a meal in the Clover Leaf Event Center.
7 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Uniontown 4H Club Concession Stand in the Cloverleaf Event Center
8 a.m. – Rabbit Judging
9 a.m. – Open Class Judging – Myers Building is Closed
9 a.m. – Southwest/Southland Dairy Mobile Classroom with presentation at 9:30 am and 10:30 am
10 a.m. – Poultry Judging
11 a.m. – Operation Wildlife Eagle Presentation
12 p.m. – FCE Bake Sale in the Myers Building
12 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Myers Building Open for viewing
1 p.m. – Bourbon County 4H Council Afternoon Matinee in the Cloverleaf Event Center
5 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Merchant’s Building Open – over 15 vendors
5 p.m. – Sheep Show
6:30 p.m. – Meat Goat Show
Food Vendors:
7 a.m. to 2 p.m.  at the Uniontown 4H Club Concession Stand in Cloverleaf Event Center
All Day – Lemonade Lagoon
5 p.m. – Jonny O’s Food Truck
Some of the flyers on the doors of the buildings, telling of some of the week’s fair events.
A draft horse pull is July 16 at 8 p.m. at the fair.
On July 14 from noon to 2 p.m. is the selling of the prize winning foods judged in open class in the Myers Building.
There will be a free pancake breakfast on July 15 from 7 to 8 a.m. at the Cloverleaf Event Center, provided by Landmark Bank.
Bourbon County

Bourbon County Commission Agenda Summary for July 13, 2026 Meeting

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Bourbon County Commission

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda – July 13, 2026, 5:30 PM

The meeting will be held at 210 S National Avenue, Fort Scott, KS. Immediately following the meeting will be a budget work session.

07.13.26_Agenda.pdf (full PDF)

Detailed Information Packet Summary

1. Meeting Minutes – June 29, 2026 (Pages 3–6)

The packet includes full draft minutes from the June 29, 2026 meeting for commission approval.

  • Attendance & Logistics: Meeting called to order by Chair Samuel Tran on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Fort Scott, KS. Present: Chair Samuel Tran (District 1), Commissioner David Beerbower (District 2), Commissioner Joe Allen (District 3), Commissioner Gregg Motley (District 4), Commissioner Mika Milburn (District 5), County Clerk Susan Walker. Citizen attendees included Rachel Walker, Clint Walker, Jennifer Simhiser, Don Tucker, Jean Tucker, Marlon Merida, Jason Silvers, Lisa Dillon, James Crux, Kenny Allen, Ben Hart, Matt Lawn, Al Neice, Nick Graham, Teri Hulsey, Brian Ashworth, Trey Sharp, Bryan Murphy, Kevin Davidson, Pete Owenby, and Kevin Allen. (Page 3)
  • Agenda Modifications: The agenda was revised prior to adoption. The following items were tabled to expedite the meeting in advance of a public works budget work session: American Flag Purchase, Jarred Gilmore Phillips 2026 Audit Engagement, Procedures for Adopting Resolutions, Fund Resolution, Resolution 25-26 Cancellation of Warrant Checks, and Heartland Business License Annual Billing. Commissioner Allen’s Statement/Discussion was voluntarily deferred. Added to the agenda: Planning Committee under Special Appearances, a Resolution for Funding the Comprehensive Plan (to follow Public Comments), Chamber Membership under New Business, and an Executive Session for nonelected personnel performance. Motion to adopt as revised by Chair Tran, seconded by Commissioner Milburn – carried unanimously. (Page 3)
  • Financial & Payables Approvals:
    • Approval of Minutes – 06/15/26, 05/11/26 (Revised), 04/13/26 (Revised): Motion by Commissioner Milburn, seconded by Commissioner Motley – carried unanimously. (Page 3)
    • Accounts Payable 06.18.26 – $83,374.82: Commissioner Milburn moved to remove $3,011.25 postage charge pending explanation; Chair Tran seconded, restating motion as approval of 06.18.26 payables. Commissioner Beerbower voted no; motion passed 4-1. (Page 4)
    • Accounts Payable 06.26.26 – $453,809.91: Commissioner Motley updated his motion to approve all 06.26.26 payables except the $3,011.25 postage charge. Commissioner Milburn seconded. Commissioner Beerbower voted no; motion passed 4-1. (Page 4)
    • Approval of May 2026 Financials: Motion by Commissioner Motley, seconded by Commissioner Allen – carried unanimously. (Page 4)
  • Special Appearances – Planning Committee / Confluence Contract: The Planning Committee presented the best and final offer from Confluence for the Comprehensive Plan, reduced from $152,000 to $116,500 through consolidation of planning phases and reduction of public hearings and attorney fees. Motion to amend agenda to add a Resolution for Funding the Comprehensive Plan following Public Comments by Commissioner Milburn, seconded by Chair Tran – carried unanimously. (Page 4)
  • Public Comments:
    • Railroad Museum / Moody Building: Al Neice reported the organization was officially gifted a caboose from Houston, with transportation arranged and track installation expected the following week. (Page 4)
    • Redemption House Roof Repair: Don Tucker and Jennifer Simhiser requested $24,000 from the county’s opioid fund for roof replacement, supported by three contractor bids. Commissioners expressed support but noted uncertainty about available fund balance. Motion by Commissioner Beerbower, seconded by Commissioner Motley to approve $24,000 from the opioid fund – failed 1-4 (Beerbower in favor). Item to be added to following week’s agenda pending confirmed fund balance. (Page 4)
  • Fund Resolution – Commissioner Milburn: Financial advisors Ben and Matt discussed funding options for the Confluence Comprehensive Plan including general fund carryover (~$50,000 after legal expenses), inmate fee fund, FEMA reimbursement funds ($600,000), and year-end budget savings from unfilled positions. Advisors cautioned against using the inmate fee fund. No action taken. (Page 5)
  • Old Business:
    • SEK Juvenile Detention Center Discussion: Board discussed renewing Girard contract vs. transitioning to per-use arrangement with Johnson County (~$130–$150/day vs. ~$100,000/year regardless of use). Motion by Chair Tran, seconded by Commissioner Beerbower to terminate Girard contract – failed 3-2 (Beerbower and Tran in favor; Milburn, Motley, and Allen opposing). (Page 5)
    • Public Works Items – K. Allen: Motion by Commissioner Milburn to allow chairman to sign grant paperwork for Jayhawk bridge repair – seconded by Beerbower, all approved. PEC recommended for $5,900 geological study; no formal action taken. (Page 5)
    • Chamber Membership: Motion by Commissioner Allen, seconded by Commissioner Motley to approve $570 annual Chamber membership renewal from general fund – carried unanimously. (Page 5)
    • Executive Session – Nonelected Personnel Performance: Two executive sessions held pursuant to KSA 75-4319(b)(1), resuming at 6:49 PM and 7:01 PM respectively, both with no action taken. (Pages 5–6)
  • Future Agenda Topics: Commissioner Policy Manual and Job Descriptions (Beerbower), Redemption House Roof Funding, Commissioner Allen’s Statement/Discussion, Solar Funds Update (Beerbower, pending attorney report), Budget (Milburn), Resolution 25-26 Cancellation of Warrant Checks. (Page 6)
  • Adjournment: Motion by Chair Tran, seconded by Commissioner Milburn to adjourn at 7:05 PM – carried unanimously. (Page 6)

2. Meeting Minutes – July 6, 2026 (Pages 7–11)

The packet includes full draft minutes from the July 6, 2026 meeting for commission approval.

  • Attendance & Logistics: Meeting called to order Monday, July 6, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Fort Scott, KS. Present: Samuel Tran (District 1, Chairman), David Beerbower (District 2), Joe Allen (District 3), Gregg Motley (District 4), Mika Milburn (District 5), Bob Johnson (County Counselor), Deputy County Clerk Lesley Herrin. Citizen attendees: Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, Marlon Merida, Kyle Parks, Don Tucker, Jean Tucker, Michael Hoyt, Jennifer Simhiser, Kasee Howard, Pete Owenby, William Jackson, Jason Silvers, Nick Graham, Kevin Allen, Teri Hulsey. (Page 7)
  • Agenda Modifications: Commissioner Beerbower added RFP updates and auction updates to old business (items d and e). Commissioner Allen removed his statement from New Business item X.b. Commissioner Milburn moved budget discussion (items X.a.1 and X.a.2) to immediately after Public Comments. Motion by Chairman Tran, seconded by Commissioner Milburn – carried unanimously. (Page 7)
  • Financial & Payables Approvals:
    • Accounts Payable 07.02.26 – $144,022.62: Motion by Commissioner Motley, seconded by Commissioner Allen – carried unanimously. (Page 7)
    • Postage tabled from 06.29.26 – $3,011.25: Commissioner Milburn expressed concern about budget constraints but had not received confirmation from treasurer. Motion by Commissioner Motley, seconded by Commissioner Beerbower to approve postage payment – carried 3-2 (Milburn and Tran opposing). (Page 8)
    • Murphy Tractor Training Dispute: Commissioner Milburn noted Road and Bridge Director Kenny confirmed the item was placed on the agenda without his knowledge. Motion by Chairman Tran, seconded by Commissioner Milburn to remove the item – carried unanimously. (Page 8)
  • Special Appearances – Redemption House Roof Replacement (Tucker & Simhiser): Mr. Tucker reported the applicable fund holds $67,000, of which $15,242 is encumbered, leaving $51,000 unencumbered. Roof replacement cost confirmed at $24,700. Motion by Commissioner Milburn, seconded by Commissioner Motley to approve funding up to $25,000 for Redemption House roof – carried unanimously. Tucker directed to submit invoice upon completion. (Page 8)
  • Public Comments:
    • Kevin Allen: Addressed commission regarding Bourbon County Transfer Station budget changes, including removal of $35,000 building payment, departure of fourth employee, and loss of bean contract. Urged commission to account for savings before considering fee increases. (Page 8)
    • William B. Jackson (former maintenance director): Addressed health and safety concerns at the courthouse; stated he was terminated after raising concerns about deteriorating insulation and materials warranting asbestos testing. Called on commission to release inspection records and conduct transparent testing. (Page 8)
    • Michael J. Hoyt: Stated he was not recognized at June 15 meeting when wishing to speak on road situation in Hidden Valley Lakes. Provided 120-day notice pursuant to KSA 12-105b of intent to file a lawsuit against Chairman Tran in his official and individual capacity. (Page 8)
  • Budget Discussion – Milburn-Kee (New Business X.a, moved): Accountant Matt Lawn presented budget requests for EMS and Appraiser departments.
    • EMS: 2027 budget request $1,203,459 (increase of ~$11,856 / ~1% over 2026 adopted budget of $1,191,603). Projected 2026 year-end deficit ~$5,700; collections tracking near $900,000 target; 20% fuel cost increase included; new ambulance process anticipated (~$430,000 including power cot with ~2-year delivery lead time). (Page 8)
    • County Attorney: Budget request reflects 8.17% increase (~$38,404 over current year). Assistant county attorney salary range requested at $105,000; legal assistant wages requested at $25/hour (senior), $22/hour (junior), $20/hour (full-time). Offsetting reductions include removal of case management system, travel expenses, and relocation of SANE exam line ($5,000) to general fund. (Page 9)
    • Appraiser: Flat budget request; no additional allocation needed. (Page 9)
    • Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR): 2026 RNR is 54.661 mills vs. current mill levy of 56.669 mills. Mr. Lawn recommended commission notify county clerk of intent to exceed RNR at 56.669 mills to preserve flexibility; full analysis with fund balance impact scenarios to follow. Budget work sessions to continue over next two meetings targeting ~80% completion before addressing benefits. Mid-year financial report targeted for early August. (Page 9)
  • Old Business:
    • Discussion of Minutes Format: Commission voted to adopt short minutes format going forward. Motion by Chairman Tran, seconded by Commissioner Motley – carried unanimously. (Page 9)
    • Resolution 25-26 Cancellation of Warrant Checks: Resolution to cancel 20 outstanding warrant checks totaling $8,216.36 dating to 2022–2023 (funds never disbursed; standard bookkeeping measure). Motion by Commissioner Motley, seconded by Commissioner Beerbower – passed (Beerbower, Motley, Tran, and Allen yes; Milburn did not vote). (Page 9)
    • Confluence Contract Approval – Use of Solar Funds: No funding update from Commissioner Beerbower; commission agreed not to execute contract until funding is confirmed. Tabled to July 20, 2026 meeting. (Page 9)
    • Jarred Gilmore Phillips 2026 Audit Engagement: Commissioner Milburn researching alternative auditing firm; item carried over to next meeting. (Page 9)
    • RFP Updates: Bids received for forensic audit RFP; Chairman Tran to present bid details and statements of work at July 20 meeting. MSB Law hired for title search. Commissioners Allen and Beerbower expressed desire to continue (health care services concern); Commissioner Milburn expressed preference to discontinue. (Pages 9–10)
    • Auction Updates: Commissioner Allen coordinating meeting with relevant party; no date confirmed. (Page 10)
  • New Business – CIC Renewal ($55,465 from IT Budget): Several CIC software modules related to payroll and time clock no longer in use after transition to new system; estimated $5,000 savings possible by removing redundant modules. Motion by Commissioner Motley, seconded by Commissioner Beerbower to table pending review and removal of unused modules – carried unanimously. (Page 10)
  • Commission Comments: Commissioner Allen noted ~10 minutes late to next meeting; Wednesday work session cancelled as accountant was unavailable. Chairman Tran noted KDHE conducted courthouse inspection and issued clean bill of health; acknowledged building’s age and presence of potentially asbestos-containing materials but noted KDHE guidance that undisturbed asbestos does not pose a hazard. Chairman Tran proposed public town hall July 22, 2026 at 5:30 PM (tentatively Fort Scott Community College) to discuss taxes and budget; requested commissioner responses by Friday, July 10. (Page 10)
  • Adjournment: Motion by Chairman Tran, seconded by Commissioner Milburn to adjourn at 7:28 PM – carried unanimously. (Page 10)

3. Accounts Payable – 07.10.26 Grand Total: $543,225.90 (Pages 12–39)

The packet contains a 28-page Open Invoices by Department Summary for Bourbon County with a due date of 7/10/2026 and 284 total invoices across all departments. Grand total: $543,225.90.

  • Non-Departmental Fund Summary (Dept 00) – $399,486.47: (Pages 12–23)
    • General Fund (001): ($1,255.10) – payroll clearing offsets for various employee benefits including Assurity Life ($151.76), Bay Bridge cancer ins ($81.38), BBCO HSA ($150.00), KPERS ($1,784.19), IRS payroll taxes ($5,076.07), state taxes ($1,631.00).
    • Appraisers (016): $7,773.43 – includes Card Services vehicle/fuel/meal ($98.49), Marshall & Swift/Boeckh Marshall Valuation Service ($721.90), Culligan cooler rental ($14.95), appraiser wages ($7,465.76).
    • County Treasurer Motor Fund (052): $3,978.79 – includes Card Services Hilton Garden Inn lodging for training ($135.89), Card Services meals & lodging ($134.17), Amazon check stamps ($9.99), wages ($3,745.54).
    • Diversion Application Fee Fund (060): $285.01 – Card Services Amazon subscription/office/breakroom/office luncheon ($285.01).
    • Election (062): $4,255.53 – Fort Scott Tribune June 2026 required publication/notices ($2,220.00), Card Services cardboard tabletop voting booths ($90.37), Card Services election office supplies ($135.32), Susan Walker L&A testing lunch reimbursement ($20.80), election wages ($1,807.31).
    • Employee Benefit (064): $146,077.37 – Blue Cross/Blue Shield July 2026 medical & dental premiums ($111,153.74), KPERS EE & ER ($19,036.10 + $654.03), ER IRS Social Security ($14,567.20), Equitable vision insurance ($116.64), KC Life ER life insurance ($248.53), BBCO HSA ($137.28), ER unemployment ($163.85).
    • Special Law Enforcement (097): $100.00 – Kansas Renewal Institute Ride 4 Kids Poker Run donation ($100.00).
    • Landfill (108): $13,216.28 – Allen County Public Works MSW 6/25–6/30/26 ($6,189.38), Robinson Welding and Fabrication welding #21 ($1,000.00), SW Mgmt Fund-KDHE 2nd quarter landfill tonnage 2026 ($1,217.72), Foley Equipment Co. elements #15 ($202.59), landfill wages ($4,454.82), Lockwood Motor Supply fuel filters #15 ($105.49), Rural Water District water ($34.45), Terry Lawrence pump at landfill ($100.00), Quill Corporation copy paper ($41.99), ComplianceOne monthly charge ($18.45).
    • County Sheriff/Correctional (120): $95,741.89 – Benchmark Government Solutions inmate meals ($14,534.00), Wex Bank fuel acct#0460-00-335351-3 ($10,850.83), Wex Bank fuel acct#0460-00-335346-3 ($453.85), Satterlee Plumbing, Heating & Air-Cond labor ($1,980.00) and parts ($1,022.04), sheriff wages ($34,896.98), SEKRCC wages ($28,474.81), KPERS ($3,748.69), Card Services (Pritchett) duty holster/cuff pouch ($395.99), KA-Comm patrol vehicle equipment ($973.70), Craw-Kan monthly internet & phone ($606.72), Card Services (Moore) fuel/cigarettes/lighter/meal/lawn mower blades/leaf blower ($669.95), Card Services (Hawpe) lodging/meals for transport ($496.49), IRS payroll taxes ($8,856.61), state taxes ($3,243.00), 4 State Sanitation monthly trash SEKRCC ($180.50), First Responder Outfitters uniform pants ($213.12), BTX KS inmate medical services ($312.00), Fort Scott Broadcasting July 4th safety ads ($65.00).
    • Noxious Weed (200): $1,624.79 – noxious weed wages ($1,524.80), Card Services (Reed) hose repair kit/tote adapter ($48.84), Card Services (Reed) certified applicator exam fee ($45.00), ComplianceOne ($6.15).
    • Road and Bridge (220): $74,960.69 – Road & Bridge wages ($41,869.50), Elm Creek wages ($1,075.20), Judy’s Fuel & Oil various deliveries totaling ~$19,117.72 (county barn gas/diesel, Uniontown tank, Mapleton tank, fuel truck), John Deere Financial graders payment #s 9 & 36 lease principal ($7,083.86) and interest ($2,042.54), O’Reilly Auto Parts hydraulic/fuel/oil filters graders ($745.76) and multiple other parts, Bo’s 1 Stop 12″ storm pipes ($1,762.00), Foley Equipment filters #14 ($163.90), #81 ($551.59), elements #53 ($185.54), IRS payroll taxes ($5,148.94), state taxes ($1,833.00), KPERS ($2,320.81), Rural Water District water ($43.90 + $87.80), Bobby Ann Miller July 2026 sanitation services – Elm Creek ($80.00) and Road & Bridge ($85.50), Sales Tax-KDOR 2nd quarter 2026 ($253.08 × 2), Heartland Propane tank lease ($60.00), Terry Lawrence pump at county barn ($100.00), Amazon headlight assembly #105 ($135.00).
    • Road & Bridge Sales Tax Fund (222): $53,297.68 – Wright Asphalt Products AC-20 24.2 tons @ $609.00 ($14,737.80) and AC-20 23.86 tons @ $609.00 ($14,530.74), Coastal Energy Corporation SS-1H 3,545 gal @ $2.50 ($8,862.50), Kunshek Chat and Coal sand and haul 181.87 tons @ $39.50 ($7,183.88), Judy’s Fuel & Oil dyed diesel 1,811 gal @ $3.34 asphalt plant ($6,048.74), BMO Harris Bank asphalt roller payment #308 lease principal ($561.11), Premier Truck Group A/C evaporator #145 ($219.46), Kirkland Welding acetylene/oxygen ($174.50), ComplianceOne ($89.18), Prairieland Partners wiring harness/sensor ($200.93), Card Services (Allen) parts ($352.42), Card Services (Snyder) diesel fuel ($141.01), Rural Water District water ($62.80), O’Reilly starting fluid ($20.97), Lockwood Motor Supply fitting/coupling/hose ($83.78).
    • Ambulance Service (375): ($1,182.06) – payroll clearing offsets; ambulance service wages are captured under Dept 24.
    • Addiction Settlement Fund (387): $612.17 – Path of Ease Association mileage reimbursement ($389.33) and vehicle maintenance reimbursement ($222.84).
  • County Department Operations: (Pages 24–39)
    • Dept 01 – County Commission: $4,909.96 – commission wages ($4,909.96). (Page 24)
    • Dept 02 – County Clerk: $3,915.69 – clerk wages ($3,915.69). (Page 25)
    • Dept 03 – County Treasurer: $4,736.39 – treasurer wages ($4,710.46), Amazon check stamps ($9.98), Culligan cooler rental ($15.95). (Page 26)
    • Dept 04 – County Attorney: $12,068.90 – attorney wages ($11,360.70), Fort Scott Tribune legal publications – KMS & UM ($138.75 × 2), Card Services documents/publication/Culligan/registration ($430.70). (Page 27)
    • Dept 05 – County Register of Deeds: $4,774.60 – register of deeds wages ($4,744.74), Ettinger’s Office Supplies ($29.86). (Page 28)
    • Dept 07 – Courthouse Maintenance: $2,089.99 – building mtce wages ($2,048.00), Quill Corporation copy paper ($41.99). (Page 29)
    • Dept 10 – District Court: $3,058.54 – district court wages ($2,440.15), Great America Financial Svcs agreement 230-3247749-000 ($158.21), Culligan water delivery & cooler rental ($83.00), Cordant Health Solutions drug testing services ($152.40), Card Services office supplies/office lunch meeting ($133.89), Claire Clark mileage reimbursement ($89.90), Card Services Apple.com iCloud storage ($0.99). (Page 30)
    • Dept 11 – Emergency Preparedness: $1,019.71 – EM. Prep. wages ($769.23), Card Services (Howard) fuel/meal/charger ($131.66), Card Services (Howard) membership/subscriptions ($118.82). (Page 31)
    • Dept 17 – Dispatch: $60,500.00 – City of Fort Scott 2nd quarter dispatching services ($60,500.00). (Page 32)
    • Dept 24 – Ambulance Service: $40,828.84 – ambulance services wages ($36,071.58), DH Pace Company overhead door repair ($1,775.35), Stryker Sales medical supplies ($364.04), Morris & Dickson medication ($172.10 + $92.36), patient overpayment refunds (Malone $325.00, Shoemaker $150.56, Franklin $128.41), Card Services (Hulsey) educational supplies/Adobe ($766.64), Card Services (Hulsey) water/cleaning supplies/uniforms/office supplies ($553.24), Bobby Ann Miller July 2026 sanitation ($103.00), Kirkland Welding oxygen ($57.00), Verizon Wireless EMS iPad service ($40.04), Evergy 2817 S Horton storage electricity ($43.89), Card Services (Hulsey) medical supplies ($17.90), Card Services (Hulsey) fuel ($45.60), O’Reilly motor resistor ($63.22), Card Services (Hulsey) vehicle maintenance ($13.94), Card Services (Hulsey) building maintenance/cleaning supplies ($44.97). (Page 33)
    • Dept 43 – Courthouse General: $201.50 – Bobby Ann Miller July 2026 sanitation services ($201.50). (Page 34)
    • Dept 44 – Human Resources: $1,943.00 – Emerson & Co LLC June 2026 payroll services ($1,943.00). (Page 35)
    • Dept 99 – County Miscellaneous: $3,692.31 – county counselor wages ($3,692.31). (Page 36)

4. Jarred Gilmore Phillips 2026 Audit Engagement Letter (Pages 40–45)

The packet includes the engagement letter from Jarred, Gilmore & Phillips, PA, Certified Public Accountants, dated May 4, 2026, for audit services for Bourbon County, Kansas for the year ended December 31, 2026.

  • Audit Scope and Objectives: The firm will audit the financial statement of Bourbon County as of and for the year ended December 31, 2026 on a regulatory basis of accounting (per K.S.A. 75-1120a(c) waiver). Supplementary information to be audited includes: (1) Summary of Expenditures – Actual and Budget – Regulatory Basis (Budget Funds only); (2) Schedule of Receipts and Expenditures – Actual and Budget – Regulatory Basis; (3) Summary of Receipts and Disbursements – Agency Funds – Regulatory Basis. (Page 40)
  • Auditor’s Responsibilities: Audit to be conducted in accordance with GAAS. Firm will evaluate appropriateness of accounting policies, reasonableness of significant estimates, and overall presentation. Significant risks identified: (1) management override of controls; (2) improper revenue recognition. (Pages 41–42)
  • Management Responsibilities: County is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining internal controls; preparing financial statements; identifying fraud risk; and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. County must provide access to all relevant records and personnel. (Pages 42–43)
  • Engagement Fees and Terms: Audit services fee not to exceed $29,500.00 including travel and out-of-pocket costs. If federal expenditures exceed $1,000,000.00, a Single Audit may be required; estimated additional fee $2,900.00. Engagement partner: Neil L. Phillips, CPA. Disputes subject to mediation; venue: State of Kansas. (Pages 44–45)
  • Reporting: Written audit report to be issued upon completion, addressed to the Board of County Commissioners of Bourbon County. (Page 45)
Bourbon County, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 13, 2026

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Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 13, 2026

Arrested

Eisenbrandt, Jonah (Age 46) — Arrested 7/10/2026 6:00 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Sanction. Bond: $0.00. Released 7/12/2026 6:09 PM via Time Served.

Sayer, Bailee Michelle (Age 34) — Arrested 7/10/2026 7:01 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Warrant Bourbon County (Bond Revoke). Bond: $1,118.00 Cash.

Woolery, James Kenneth (Age 55) — Arrested 7/11/2026 1:51 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Expired Registration, Possession of Certain Hallucinogenic Drugs, Use/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body. Bond: $0.00.

Ramey, Joseph Silas (Age 21) — Arrested 7/12/2026 10:39 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Opiates/Opium/Narcotic Drug and Certain Stimulants, Possession of Certain Hallucinogenic Drugs, Use/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body. Bond: $0.00.

Released

Eisenbrandt, Jonah — Released 7/12/2026 6:09 PM via Time Served (Self).

Guzman-Ramirez, Jesus Ricardo — Released 7/10/2026 2:01 PM via Probation (Self).

Olkowski, Micheal Lee — Released 7/11/2026 11:43 AM via Surety Bond (A+ Bail Bonds).

Total Inmates Released: 3

Documents:

Bourbon County

Were Milburn-Kee’s Defense Donations Illegal? What the State Says

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As Bourbon County Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee fights criminal charges brought by the Kansas Attorney General, some residents have asked whether the money being donated to help pay her legal bills should it count as campaign contributions.

FortScott.biz filed an open-records request with the state agency that oversees campaign finance in Kansas, and the records show it took up that exact question earlier this year. An investigator for the agency told Milburn-Kee that money given specifically to cover her legal defense is not a campaign contribution as defined by the Kansas Campaign Finance Act, and does not have to be reported as one.

The situation stems from charges related to an Oct. 25, 2025 incident when the county commission room while it was being used for early-voting. For the full history, see State of Kansas vs. Mika Milburn-Kee and Judge Rejects Late Felony Charge; State Will Refile All Counts. Lawyers to defend against the charges costs money. As supporters discussed raising funds to help, questions circulated about whether those donations should have been reported as campaign contributions.

The records show that on April 13, Milburn-Kee emailed the agency herself “to request guidance regarding transparency and reporting requirements.” She asked whether “financial assistance for personal legal defense from family members or friends” is “subject to reporting requirements under Kansas ethics or campaign finance,” and said she wanted to “remain fully transparent and compliant with all legal and ethical obligations.”

Two days later, investigator Scott Smith responded with the agency’s written guidance:

“Funds donated or gifted to you for the purpose of paying for your legal defense of the criminal charges against you are not campaign contributions as defined by the Kansas Campaign Finance Act (CFA) and therefore do not need to be reported on any report required by the CFA.”

Smith added two points. First, Milburn-Kee cannot use her commissioner campaign contributions to pay for this defense. Second, he wrote that the donor’s intent for the money is what matters, and suggested she and anyone helping her raise funds make that purpose clear:

“It is the donator’s intent for the use of the funds that is key. Accordingly, I suggest that you, and anybody assisting you with raising funds for your legal defense, make it clear that you are not soliciting or accepting the funds as campaign contributions and that the funds will be used for your legal defense costs.”

The same guidance applies regardless of how the money is collected: “The foregoing applies to funds raised on the GoFundMe platform or by any other means.”

The agency is the Kansas Public Disclosure Commission (KPDC), formerly the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission. It enforces the Kansas Campaign Finance Act along with state lobbying laws and conflict-of-interest and financial-disclosure laws for state-level officials. It is important to note that the KPDC oversees state-level campaign finance, not every ethics question about local officials. When a resident’s complaint about the fundraising reached the agency, it said so plainly:

“We do not enforce any ethics / conflicts of interest laws applicable to local political officers, including county commissioners. You may wish to consult with your county attorney or county counselor to determine if there are any local ethics / conflicts of interest laws that may be implicated.”

So the guidance answers the campaign-finance question she raised, but the commission was clear it does not decide whether any local county rule might apply.

The records also show the concern was formally raised when a resident sent a complaint about the fundraising to the Attorney General’s office, which forwarded it to the KPDC. Responding, investigator Smith gave the agency’s bottom line:

“Based on the information and allegations in your complaint, there is no apparent violation of any of the laws enforced by our office. However, if you have specific, verifiable information that may constitute a violation of the Kansas Campaign Finance Act, such as the commissioner using her campaign funds for her legal defense, then please let us know.”

The question behind the rumor was whether Milburn-Kee should have reported these donations as campaign contributions. Since the state says the donations for her defense are not campaign contributions, the Campaign Finance Act doesn’t specify any reporting requirement for them. However, that guidance only considers the relevance of Kansas campaign contributions laws.  The commission specifically noted it does not decide any separate local ethics or legal questions regarding such donations.

FortScott.biz obtained these documents through a Kansas Open Records Act request. The commission released four responsive records and withheld one internal staff email chain under a KORA exemption for agency deliberations. The released records are posted in full below.

KPDC records on legal-defense donations for Commissioner Milburn-Kee (KORA response)

Related coverage

Commissioner Milburn-Kee was contacted for comment but had not replied by the time this story was scheduled.

Bourbon County, Elections, Government, Kansas

2026 Bourbon County Primary: Full Candidate List & Ballot Question

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2026 Bourbon County Primary Election: Candidates and Ballot Question

The Bourbon County Clerk’s office has released the official list of candidates and ballot question for the August 2026 Primary Election. Below is a complete breakdown of every race and the constitutional amendment question that Bourbon County voters will see on their ballots.

Democratic Primary Candidates

United States Senator

  • Damon Anderson – Shawnee
  • Christy Davis – Cottonwood Falls
  • Adam Hamilton – Stilwell
  • Jason Hart – Wichita
  • Kevin Latz – Mission Hills
  • Erik Murray – Kansas City
  • Sandy Spidel Neumann – Overland Park
  • Anne Parelkar – Overland Park
  • Patrick C. Schmidt – Topeka
  • Michael “Mike” Soetaert – Wellington
  • Noah Taylor – Kechi

U.S. House of Representatives – District 2

  • Don Coover – Galesburg

Kansas Governor / Lt. Governor

  • Ethan Corson / Renee Duxler – Salina
  • Cindy Holscher / KC Ohaebosim – Wichita
  • Curt Skoog / Jennifer Bacani McKenney – Fredonia

Kansas Secretary of State

  • Jennifer Day – Overland Park
  • Samuel Lane – Shawnee

Kansas Attorney General

  • Chris Mann – Lawrence

Kansas State Treasurer

  • Juan C. Luengo – Olathe

Commissioner of Insurance

  • Dinah Sykes – Lenexa

State Board of Education – District 9

  • Heather Guernsey – Chanute

Bourbon County Commissioner – District 1

  • Clinton L. Walker – Mapleton

Bourbon County Commissioner – District 3

  • No candidate filed

Bourbon County Commissioner – District 4

  • No candidate filed

Township Clerk (Democratic)

No candidates filed in Drywood, Franklin, Freedom, Marion, Millcreek, Marmaton, Osage, Pawnee, Scott, Timberhill, or Walnut townships.

Democratic Precinct Committeeman/Committeewoman

Precinct Position Candidate
7th Ward Committeewoman Tracy J. Schafer – Fort Scott
Marmaton D2 Committeewoman Thelma J. Quirin – Redfield
Millcreek Committeewoman Jane L. Gaines – Fort Scott
Scott D4 Committeewoman Carol K. Lydic – Fort Scott
Timberhill Committeeman Clinton Lee Walker – Mapleton
Timberhill Committeewoman Rachel Walker – Mapleton
All other Democratic precinct positions: No candidate filed

Republican Primary Candidates

United States Senator

  • Roger Marshall – St. John
  • Pond Naramore – Lawrence

U.S. House of Representatives – District 2

  • Derek Schmidt – Independence
  • Chad E. Young – Lawrence

Kansas Governor / Lt. Governor

  • Ty Masterson / Jeffrey Klemp – Lansing
  • Charlotte O’Hara / Michelle Dombrosky – Olathe
  • Nick Reinecker / Katy Reinecker – Inman
  • Stacy L. Rogers / Michael W. Smith – Lansing
  • Philip Sarnecki / Joy Eakins – Wichita
  • Vicki Schmidt / Joe Newland – Neodesha
  • Scott Schwab / Ken Rahjes – Agra

Kansas Secretary of State

  • Pat Proctor – Leavenworth

Kansas Attorney General

  • Kris Kobach – Lecompton

Kansas State Treasurer

  • Steven Johnson – Assaria

Commissioner of Insurance

  • Daniel Hawkins – Wichita

Kansas House of Representatives – District 4

  • Rick James – La Cygne

State Board of Education – District 9

  • Destry Brown – Fort Scott
  • Kristian Gerken – Paola
  • Renee Slinkard – Parker

Bourbon County Commissioner – District 1

  • Lyle K. (Pete) Owenby – Redfield
  • Mike Hueston – Mapleton
  • Lisa Dillon – Fort Scott

Bourbon County Commissioner – District 3

  • Joe Allen – Fort Scott
  • Josh Jones – Fort Scott

Bourbon County Commissioner – District 4

  • Gregg Motley – Fort Scott

Township Clerk (Republican)

  • Drywood: Laura Krom
  • Franklin: No candidate filed
  • Freedom: No candidate filed
  • Marion: Brent M. Smith; Michael Ramsey
  • Millcreek: No candidate filed
  • Marmaton: No candidate filed
  • Osage: No candidate filed
  • Pawnee: No candidate filed
  • Scott: Donald Banwart
  • Timberhill: Jennifer Epting Williams
  • Walnut: No candidate filed

Republican Precinct Committeeman/Committeewoman

Precinct Position Candidate(s)
1st Ward Committeeman Kevin W. Davidson
1st Ward Committeewoman Cheryl L. Adamson
2nd Ward Committeeman Robert J. Uhler
2nd Ward Committeewoman Laurie R. Uhler
3rd Ward Committeeman Brian Rhoades
3rd Ward Committeewoman Brandy L. Rhoades
4th Ward Committeeman Matthew Wells
4th Ward Committeewoman Katie Wells
5th Ward Committeeman No candidate filed
5th Ward Committeewoman Jana R. Walker
6th Ward Committeeman Douglas E. Niemeir
6th Ward Committeewoman No candidate filed
7th Ward Committeeman Michael Hoyt; Robert S. Love
7th Ward Committeewoman Patricia S. Love
Drywood Committeeman Larry Shead
Drywood Committeewoman Vickie Shead; Laura Krom
Franklin Committeeman Tony Bradbury
Franklin Committeewoman Kaitlyn Bradbury
Freedom D1 Committeeman No candidate filed
Freedom D1 Committeewoman Janice Seested
Freedom D5 Committeeman Lawrence Paddock
Freedom D5 Committeewoman Karen A. Paddock
Marion Committeeman No candidate filed
Marion Committeewoman Nancy Holt
Marmaton D2 Committeeman Jeffrey L. Reed; Micheal Bryant
Marmaton D2 Committeewoman Angela Soetaert
Marmaton D4 Committeeman No candidate filed
Marmaton D4 Committeewoman No candidate filed
Millcreek Committeeman Boa Casper
Millcreek Committeewoman Katie K. Casper
Osage Committeeman Joshua Kee; Marvin Creager
Osage Committeewoman Mika Milburn-Kee
Pawnee Committeeman Kevin Wagner
Pawnee Committeewoman Rachel Wagner
Scott D1 Committeeman Jim Sackett
Scott D1 Committeewoman Gayle Sackett
Scott D2 Committeeman Bryan Holt
Scott D2 Committeewoman Tara Holt
Scott D3 Committeeman Luke Demko
Scott D3 Committeewoman No candidate filed
Scott D4 Committeeman Roy D. Dare
Scott D4 Committeewoman Anne Dare
Scott D5 Committeeman Bill Lalman
Scott D5 Committeewoman Glenda Lalman
Timberhill Committeeman Timothy H. Emerson Sr.; Brandon Whisenhunt
Timberhill Committeewoman Rebecca Whisenhunt
Walnut Committeeman Jason Sutterby
Walnut Committeewoman Rebecca Sutterby

Constitutional Amendment Question

In addition to candidate races, voters will be asked to decide on a proposed constitutional amendment regarding how Kansas Supreme Court justices are selected.

Explanatory Statement

This amendment gives voters the right to elect the justices of the Kansas Supreme Court. The justices shall serve terms of six years, with elections of justice positions 1, 2 and 3 to occur in 2028, positions 4 and 5 to occur in 2030, and positions 6 and 7 to occur in 2032, and every six years thereafter. The rules applicable for such elections and the designation of position numbers shall be provided by law. Any vacancy on the court for an unexpired term shall be filled at an election as provided by law.

A vote FOR this proposition would give Kansas citizens the right to elect Kansas Supreme Court justices as provided by law. Justices will hold office for terms of six years. The Kansas Supreme Court nominating commission, whose membership consists of a majority of lawyers, would be abolished.

A vote AGAINST this proposition would continue the current system in which the Kansas Supreme Court nominating commission, whose membership consists of a majority of lawyers, provides the governor a list of three individuals to choose from for vacancies on the Kansas Supreme Court. Justices hold office for a term of six years and retain their offices if they win a retention election in which they do not face an opponent.

Proposed Amendment Text (§ 5 – Selection of Justices of the Supreme Court)

The citizens of Kansas who are qualified electors shall elect the justices of the supreme court. The rules applicable for such elections and the designation of position numbers shall be provided by law. Justice positions 1, 2 and 3 shall be elected at the general election in November of 2028, justice positions 4 and 5 in November of 2030 and justice positions 6 and 7 in November of 2032, and every six years thereafter, respectively. Any vacancy occurring on the supreme court for an unexpired term shall be filled by election as provided by law.

The full text of the amendment, including proposed changes to §§ 8 and 15 of the Kansas Constitution, is available in the attached ballot PDF.

Source: Bourbon County Clerk’s Office.

Documents:

Bourbon County, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 10, 2026

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Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 10, 2026

Arrested

Herrington, John Thomas (Age 56) — Arrested 7/9/2026 3:24 AM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charges: Giving a False Alarm; Emergency Services, Interference with LEO; Obstruct/Resist Felony. Bond: $0.00.

Jefferson, Tyler (Age 32) — Arrested 7/9/2026 11:18 AM by Douglas County. Charge: Other Agency Hold. Bond: $0.00.

Jackson, Ontareo (Age 23) — Arrested 7/9/2026 11:36 AM by Douglas County. Charge: Other Agency Hold. Bond: $0.00.

Kerron, Dakota (Age 28) — Arrested 7/9/2026 11:47 AM by Douglas County. Charge: Other Agency Hold. Bond: $0.00.

Released

Carr, Randle R — Released 7/9/2026 10:52 AM via Transferred Out (Douglas County).

Dalager, William Paul — Released 7/9/2026 10:55 AM via Transferred Out (Douglas County).

Garrett, Brandy Sherie — Released 7/9/2026 11:15 AM via Transferred Out (Crawford County).

Heffner, Evan — Released 7/9/2026 10:54 AM via Transferred Out (Douglas County).

Total Inmates Released: 4

Documents:

Bourbon County, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 9, 2026

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Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 9, 2026

Arrested

Cox, Melissa Ann (Age 45) — Arrested 7/8/2026 9:23 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Warrant Bourbon County (Probation Violation). Bond: $0.00 No Bond.

Hendrix, Bryan William (Age 40) — Arrested 7/8/2026 11:24 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Warrant – Out of County. Bond: $0.00 No Bond.

Herrington, John Thomas (Age 56) — Arrested 7/9/2026 3:24 AM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charges: Giving a False Alarm; Emergency Services, Interference with LEO; Obstruct/Resist Felony. Bond: $0.00.

Released

Brashear, Julie Irene — Released 7/8/2026 11:35 AM via Surety Bond (Able Bonding).

Reinkens, Jenise Michelle — Released 7/8/2026 11:22 AM via Surety Bond (Able Bonding).

Total Inmates Released: 2

Documents:

Bourbon County, Elections

Clerk Asks Judge to Deny County Attorney’s Motion, Send Recall Lawsuit to Trial

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Bourbon County Clerk Susan Walker has filed her written response to County Attorney James Crux’s request to end her recall lawsuit without a trial — and she is asking the judge to reject that request and let the case proceed.

The response, filed July 8 in Bourbon County District Court, is the latest step in Walker v. Crux (BB-2026-CV-000048), the suit Walker brought in May to challenge a recall petition being circulated against her.

In late June, Crux — the defendant in the case — asked the court for a “judgment on the pleadings,” a request to decide the case on the written filings alone, without a trial. In that motion, Crux argued the recall petition is legally sufficient and should be allowed to go to the voters, and he asked the court to bring the three recall committee members back into the case.

Walker’s July 8 filing asks the court to deny that motion. Notably, she is not asking the court to rule in her favor now. She is asking it to let her two claims move forward “to trial so it may fully examine the facts and law.”

Walker makes two main arguments, both drawn from her amended petition.

First, she says the county attorney did not do what the law requires. Under K.S.A. 25-4322(b), the county attorney must review a proposed recall petition and determine whether it is legally sufficient. Walker contends Crux reviewed and rejected an earlier draft but never independently reviewed the second, amended version that was actually circulated for signatures. She argues Crux effectively concedes this in his own motion, and that he cannot rely on “substantial compliance” with the statute because, if he never reviewed the petition, he met none of its requirements. Reading the recall law generously in favor of voters, she writes, “does not erase” the county attorney’s duty to follow the procedure.

Second, she says the petition itself is too vague to be valid. The petition cites no statutes, which Walker argues leaves her unable to respond meaningfully within the roughly 200-word rebuttal the law allows a targeted official — pointing to the Kansas appellate cases Reynolds v. Figge and Baker v. Gibson. She also argues the petition still implies “misconduct” and “disenfranchisement,” accusations she says a reasonable signer could read as claims that she broke the law.

Walker asks the court to deny Crux’s motion and allow her petition to proceed to trial. Her underlying suit seeks a court declaration that the recall petition is invalid and an order blocking any recall election based on it. In the same filing, she also opposes a separate bid by recall organizers Kyle Parks, Kevin Wagner and Lyle Owenby to join the case as parties. You can read Walker’s full response here.

How the case got here:

  • May 22: Walker sues to block the recall petition, naming Crux and three committee members (original report).
  • Late May: Walker narrows the suit to name only Crux; a judge dismisses the committee members, and one member asks to undo that (update).
  • June 23: Crux answers the suit and files his motion for judgment on the pleadings.
  • July 8: Walker files the response described here.

A case management conference — where the judge is expected to take up the recall organizers’ motion to intervene and a related motion — is set for July 14 at the Bourbon County Courthouse in Fort Scott.

Being named in a lawsuit is not a finding of wrongdoing, and the filings described here reflect each party’s arguments, not the court’s conclusions. FortScott.biz will continue to follow the case.

 

Bourbon County

Bourbon County Commission Tackles Budget, Tables Comprehensive-Plan Contract Again — July 6, 2026

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Bourbon County Commission meeting

The Bourbon County Commission met Monday, July 6, 2026, for a meeting dominated by budget season — a possible new ambulance, requested raises in the county attorney’s office, and whether to hold the line on the revenue-neutral property-tax rate. The board also fielded pointed public comment, including an asbestos-safety claim from a former employee and a pre-suit legal notice served on the chairman, and once again put off signing the county’s comprehensive-plan contract while it works out how to pay for it.

At the top of the meeting the board revised its agenda, moving financial consultant Matt Lawn’s budget presentation earlier to accommodate his schedule, removing a Murphy Tractor training-dispute update, and dropping a statement item from Commissioner Joe Allen.

The commission approved the July 2 accounts-payable batch of $144,022.62 and, in a separate vote, approved a postage charge that had been tabled from the June 29 meeting — the courthouse “postage overage” Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee had questioned two weeks earlier.

Redemption House roof funded from opioid settlement

Don Tucker, appearing with Redemption House live-in manager Jennifer Simhiser, returned to ask the county to help replace the aging roof on the recovery home, which has been patched repeatedly but is failing. The lowest bid the group received was about $24,000.

Milburn-Kee moved to approve $25,000 from the county’s opioid settlement fund for the roof, noting the settlement dollars are restricted and that a roof over a recovery house fits their allowed use. The motion passed unanimously.

Public comment: an asbestos claim and a legal notice

Three residents addressed the board.

Kevin Allen urged the commission to look hard at the Bourbon County Transfer Station’s finances before raising gate fees or leaning on the mill levy, arguing the operation has shed major costs — a building payment that has been retired, a fourth employee who is gone, and a lost bean contract. Because the transfer station is self-funded, he said, “rather than say, raise the gate fees … you get the money, but” the underlying costs still need scrutiny, and he pushed the board to weigh equipment financing instead.

William Jackson, the county’s former maintenance director, told the commission he had found “deteriorating insulation and damaged building materials that warranted asbestos testing” in the courthouse while on the job, and that he was terminated “within hours after raising these concerns.” He asked the county to release inspection and testing records: “If there is no hazard, prove it. Release the inspection records, show the testing, let the facts speak. … No government should ever punish anyone for asking whether a public building is safe.” (Later in the meeting, Chairman Samuel Tran said the Kansas Department of Health and Environment had inspected the building and given it a clean bill of health.)

Michael Hoyt served Chairman Tran with a notice under K.S.A. 12-105B — a required precursor to a lawsuit against a governmental official — saying Tran had declined to recognize him during the June 15 discussion of the Hidden Valley roads. At that June 15 meeting the board had adopted Resolution 23-26, reaffirming that the Hidden Valley roads in the Mound City/Mapleton area are designated for law-enforcement access only and not for county maintenance. Hoyt said the notice named Tran “in your capacity as chairman and individually” and that he would file a stamped copy with the clerk.

Budget: a possible new ambulance, attorney raises, and the revenue-neutral question

Matt Lawn of Baker Tilly, the county’s outside financial consultant, walked the board through the EMS and county attorney budgets.

On EMS, Director Teri Hulsey is holding a position vacant and projecting essentially flat wages, but the department is weighing the replacement of a 2018 ambulance (EMS-3) that is nearing the end of its service life. Commissioners discussed financing a new unit over a multi-year lease rather than buying outright, and Hulsey noted the county would have to absorb the full cost: “There’s no grants out there to purchase an ambulance. There is for equipment, but there’s not for an ambulance.”

County Attorney James Crux requested salary increases to keep his office competitive with surrounding counties, centered on raising the pay for his full-time assistant county attorney position, along with raises for legal support staff. He also asked to move the county’s SANE-kit line item (sexual-assault forensic exams) off his office budget and into the general fund.

Lawn recommended the board formally notify the county clerk of its intent to exceed the revenue-neutral rate, which preserves flexibility during budget-setting; the board can always adopt a lower rate later. Lawn cautioned that holding to revenue-neutral year after year, with rising health-insurance costs and cost-of-living adjustments, becomes “death by a thousand cuts.” A public hearing on any rate above revenue-neutral cannot occur until after the state’s notice deadline in late August.

Comprehensive-plan contract still waiting on funding

The board again declined to sign its contract with Confluence, the firm the Planning Commission — represented by Brian Ashworth II and Pete Owenby — recommended on June 15 to write the county’s first comprehensive plan and an updated zoning code. That work is tied to the development moratorium the commission adopted the same night. Confluence’s original proposal was $105,500 for the comprehensive plan plus an optional $46,500 zoning-code update; at the June 29 meeting the firm brought a “best and final” of about $116,500 by combining phases and trimming outside costs. Commissioners have said they want a funding source settled before signing.

Commissioner David Beerbower, who carries the item, said he had no funding update. With the paperwork in hand, Tran said, “this is the contract for Confluence. We need to sign it,” but agreed with colleagues that signing without the money in place was premature: “No, we don’t want to sign it yet.” The board tabled the contract for two weeks, to its July 20 meeting.

Hospital donation agreement: commission split on pressing forward

The board revisited its decision to have MSB Law examine the donation agreement and lease tied to the former county hospital building, now operated under an arrangement involving the Kansas Renewal Institute (KRI) and Freeman. Commissioner Milburn-Kee said she would prefer to pull the county’s involvement: “I would personally like to pull our involvement in this.”

Commissioners Gregg Motley, Beerbower and Allen wanted to continue. Motley argued the county has an obligation to protect local health care: “We have two entities that are losing money out there every month. … We owe it to this community to explore all options.” He pushed back on the framing that the county was headed to court: “We are not entering litigation. … What we are doing is exploring options.” Allen put it simply: “I don’t want to lose a hospital.”

Tran, while agreeing the community needs a hospital, cautioned about the county’s odds if a dispute went to court: “Historically, courts and judges don’t like it when government get involved in private entities.” Separately, Chairman Tran said he would bring the county’s forensic-audit RFP — the bids received and the firms’ scope of work — to the board on July 20.

Old business: minutes, warrant checks, audit and software

After a month of disputes over errors in the county’s minutes, the board voted to adopt the short version of its minutes going forward, which Beerbower said “provides just what is necessary by law.”

The commission approved Resolution 25-26, canceling a batch of stale, uncashed warrant checks. It tabled the Jarred Gilmore Phillips 2026 audit engagement so commissioners could compare firms, and tabled the CIC software renewal — a roughly $55,465 IT-budget item — until unused payroll and time-clock modules can be identified and stripped out.

Commissioner comments

Tran reported that KDHE had inspected the courthouse and, despite the building’s age, given it a clean bill of health. He also floated a town-hall meeting at Fort Scott Community College on July 22 at 6 p.m. to talk with residents about taxes and the budget ahead of the county’s rate decisions.

Beerbower distributed a draft policy-and-procedure manual resolution for discussion on July 20. The meeting adjourned.

Bourbon County, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 8, 2026

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Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – July 8, 2026

Arrested

Reinkens, Jenise Michelle (Age 47) — Arrested 7/7/2026 1:37 PM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charge: Warrant Bourbon County (Failure to Appear). Bond: $2,500.00 Cash/Surety.

Released

Homeier, Bobby Duane — Released 7/7/2026 4:47 PM via Surety Bond (Able Bonding).

Shead, Elijah A — Released 7/7/2026 9:01 AM via Court Order (Self).

Tucker, Blake Micheal — Released 7/7/2026 11:06 AM via Surety Bond (A+ Bail Bonds).

Total Inmates Released: 3

Documents: