Category Archives: Bourbon County

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Meets January 14 at 7 p.m.

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01-25 informational items

CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by

 

ROLL CALL: 

___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing –

 

SEK Multi-County Health Department, Hannah Geneva –

 

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Sally Johnson – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of December 11, 2024 Regular Council Meeting
  2. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

KRWA Conference on 3/25-27/2025

 

Clerk Report:  Danea Esslinger  

gWorks issues –

Website Hosting

Rabies Clinic?

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilman Kelly –

Councilwoman Pemberton –

Councilwoman Pritchett –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

Warehouse project –electric proposal

 

SEED Grant – formally announce winners on January 17, if you want to know if we are awarded, be here at 10AM.

 

Park electric –

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

 

 

ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________

Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the Dec. 11 Uniontown City Council Meeting

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The Regular Council Meeting on December 11, 2024 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Savannah Pritchett, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Danea Esslinger.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Appoint and administer Oath of Office Savannah Pritchett as council member to fill vacant position.

 

Administer Oath of Office to Danea Esslinger, City Clerk/Municipal Court Clerk.

 

KMGA Prepay Project, Dixie Riedel – Dixie unable to attend due to meeting date change. Council to review Slide Show

Presentation and email questions to Clerk to forward to Dixie before the January meeting.

 

Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing – Cost estimates not completed yet, table until January meeting.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson was absent but a written report was presented for the November 2024 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $305,810.54, Receipts $32,360.86, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $34,792.15, Checking Account Closing Balance $290,603.25. Bank Statement Balance $302,036.21, including Checking Account Interest of $63.57, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $11,432.96, Reconciled Balance $290.603.25.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $37,813.87, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $21,652.34, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $39,625.68, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $389,695.14. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $651.22, and Utility CDs $1,993.05 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $2,644.27.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of November 2024, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  November Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvements-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvements-Streets $2,500.00 for Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of November $15,207.29, Year-to-Date Net Income $55,124.05.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $111,087.83 (90.0%), Expenditures $114,731.66 (70.6%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $32,108.71 (86.9%), Expenditures $28378.65 (67.4%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $104,804.74 (71.5%), Expenditures $109,096.85 (61.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $205,995.81 (105.3%), Expenditures $176,750.57 (57.1%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,175.91 (112.5%), Expenditures $7,183.05 (70.9%).  The December 2024 payables to date in the amount of $25,405.87 were presented.  The invoices from Homestead Tech, KMGA, Johnson-Schowengerdt, council pay and payroll have not been received/completed by meeting time.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of November 12, 2024 Regular Council Meeting and November 19, 2024 Special Council Meeting.
  • Treasurer’s Reports, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported that Bill Griffith would like rock or something on the railroad right-of-way where county cleaned out ditch. Mayor Jurgensen suggested to try 5 to 6 inches of milling.

 

Clerk Esslinger informed the council that gWorks is not working as promised.

She asked the council if can waive the penalty for utility billings this month due to slow US Postal delivery.  We received several calls that billings had not been received by the 10th.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to inform unpaid accounts of waiving of penalty due to slow postal delivery, and inform them of amount due; penalty will be applied if not paid January 10th.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Pritchett– nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilwoman Pemberton – there is a need a for additional electrical outlets for Christmas lights in the Park. Discussion followed, and Council directed Superintendent Rich to get quotes for additional electrical outlets.

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – brought up items covered in other sections.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Pickleball Court Placemaking Project – Councilwoman Pemberton gave report that they will put in the poles for the fence soon, but will wait for Spring to put up the fence.

 

Streets/FEMA – Mayor Jurgensen asked if we know when Bettis Asphalt will be here to complete warranty work.  Clerk Esslinger stated that Bettis will be here when they can. FEMA have the information and is still working on it.

 

Warehouse project – Superintendent Rich stated that the warehouse skin is about completed. Mayor Jurgensen let Council know that Evergy is coming soon to advise us where the electricity line will be put that will be for the warehouse. Discussion followed.  Getting electrical bids for the inside of the warehouse building was discussed. The sale of the Weed Barn was also discussed as the proceeds will be earmarked for the warehouse.

 

SEED Grant – Grant application was submitted 11/4/24. Grant will be awarded in December, and Clerk Esslinger has not heard back yet.

 

NEW BUSINESS

CMB 2025 License renewal – Discussion followed.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to allow the CMB 2025 License renewal

 

Sunday CMB hours of sales- Discussion followed.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to approve Ordinance No. 205 amending the start time to sell CMB to 9AM.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:19PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 8:19.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:32PM.

 

Superintendent Rich called in at 8:20, out at 8:32. Open meeting resumed at 8:32.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:07PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 9:07.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to convert unallocated benefit stipend to an hourly rate of $2.88 effective 1/1/2025 and add $1.00/hr merit increase effective immediately for City Superintendent.

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 9:20PM.

Bourbon County

Doral Renewables Awards Grants to Bo.Co. Fire District #3 and Core Community

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From left: Cliff William, David Goodyear, Deanna Betts, Rachel Carpenter, Rachel Carpenter and Sarah Dorsey. Submitted photo.

The Bourbon County area will be experiencing meaningful growth and opportunity thanks to the Tennyson Creek Solar project. The project’s developer, Doral Renewables, recognizes the importance of investing in the future, particularly in the youth who will shape it. Through a series of impactful partnerships, the project is helping to enhance safety, empower families, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

 

During a recent visit, representatives from Doral Renewables demonstrated their commitment to the community by presenting $5,000 contribution to the Bourbon County Fire District #3, strengthening emergency response efforts and ensuring greater preparedness for the area. Core Community also received $1,000 to further their mission of breaking the cycle of poverty for local families.

 

“We appreciate this support from Doral,” said Shawn Wyatt, fire chief of Bourbon County Fire District #3. “The donation will go towards the purchase of new safety and turnout gear for District 3 firefighters.”

 

Doral’s dedication to youth development has been equally evident. The Southwind District 4-H Livestock Judging Team received sponsorship of their trip to Scotland last summer, where they proudly represented the region and the U.S. in an international competition.

 

Additionally, Doral has extended support to the Uniontown High School team that is preparing to compete in the SunPowered Student Challenge, which involves giving students an opportunity to become more educated about the solar industry and present what they have learned.

 

“These partnerships reflect our deep commitment to this community,” said Cliff Williams, Vice President of Development at Doral Renewables. “The Tennyson Creek Solar project’s team is honored to play a role in fostering safety, opportunity, and sustainability for the region.”

 

Outside of these recent donations, Doral Renewables was also the first solar developer in the County to sign contribution agreements last year with local schools and Core Community. Over $1.5 million in total will go to each of Fort Scott USD 234, Uniontown USD 234, and Fort Scott Community College during the first 10 years after construction starts.

 

It is also estimated that, once operational, the Tennyson Creek Solar project will generate over $90 million in property taxes in total for all taxing districts over the life of the project.

 

 

 

Cliff Williams, Dakota Harrison, Delwin Mumbower and Shawn Wyatt. Submitted photo.

 

 

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Health Care, Mercy Hospital

Freeman Waiting For State Authorization For Hospital and Emergency Department in Fort Scott

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In June 2024, Freeman Health Systems CEO Paula Baker announced that Freeman will build a 10-bed hospital and emergency department in the former Mercy Hospital Fort Scott building. They are “optimistic” for a spring 2025 opening.

Quickly Taking Shape 

 Freeman Fort Scott Hospital Plans Under Review by State Officials

                                     

FORT SCOTT, Kan. – There’s been plenty of positive movement and momentum surrounding Freeman Fort Scott Hospital since it was first proposed to 100-plus cheering residents last June.

Freeman Health System, the region’s largest provider of healthcare services, is in the process of seeking licensure to open and operate an acute care hospital. Upon obtaining licensure, the proposed 10-bed general medical unit and 24-hour emergency department will operate within the city’s former hospital site located at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. Freeman will lease the space from Kansas Renewal Institute, which recently purchased the former hospital building.

According to Freeman Neosho Hospital Chief Operation Officer Renee Denton, the all-important planning for required renovations and the design phase has been completed. The requested renderings have been submitted to state officials, and once approved, renovations will begin. Denton offered one example of minor renovations that would be required – the need for some of the bathrooms to undergo minor renovation to assure they meet current Americans with Disabilities Act compliance standards.

“We submitted those plans to the state and are waiting for their authorization,” Denton said. “Once plans are approved, we will immediately send the plans out for bid to have the required renovations completed.”

There’s plenty of “quiet” work currently underway at the former hospital building, she continued: Evaluating infrastructure capabilities that will be needed to support the overall computer system, operability and building the electronic medical record; evaluating and sorting through discarded equipment to determine what is operable; and identifying all new laboratory, radiology and pharmacy equipment needed to support the new hospital and emergency department.

“Representatives at Kansas Department of Health and Environment have been very helpful to work closely with us,” Denton said. “They have been very willing to help in whatever way they can. They, too, are supportive of the effort we’re trying to bring to fruition in Fort Scott.”

A community of roughly 7,600 residents and the county seat of Bourbon County, Fort Scott has been without a hospital since 2018. The hospital’s emergency department stayed open until it, too, closed in December 2023, forcing residents to seek medical treatment 30 minutes away in Pittsburg or across the state line in Nevada, Missouri.

The emergency department will consist of six bays, with 365-day, 24/7 coverage, by licensed physicians and trained nursing staff who will be well prepared to provide emergency care. Support for the emergency department includes laboratory, radiology, computerized tomography and an inpatient pharmacy. Opportunities to have outpatient lab, radiology and CT services will also be available to the community from the hospital.

The specific opening date for Freeman Fort Scott Hospital in 2025 will crystallize as state officials review Freeman’s submitted plans and required renovations are completed. Freeman Fort Scott Hospital will be prepared to undergo the state facility survey followed by the hospital licensure survey.

“We are optimistic that we can be open in the Spring of 2025, and what we continue to work toward right now,” Denton said.  “There is no community that should be without emergency services, and we are committed to work as quickly as possible to bring these life-saving services to the Fort Scott community.

 

###

 

 

About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2024, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers and their experiences. U.S. News & World Report named Freeman Health System one of the Best Hospitals for 2022. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopaedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. A

Bourbon County, Entertainment

Bourbon County Community Theatre Hosts 2nd Annual Adult Prom

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Bourbon County Community Theatre in Fort Scott hosts Saturday Night Fever, an Adult Prom, as a fundraiser for future events and performances.

BCCT formed in 2023 and is holding its second annual prom for adults (age 18 and over); a night of fun, dancing, and community support.

This formal dance is from 8-11 p.m. on Feb. 15 on the upper floor of Sharky’s, 16 N. National in Fort Scott. In addition to dancing to a live DJ, there will be non-alcoholic drinks and snacks included in the ticket price, as well as alcoholic beverages and meals available for purchase from the bar.

They hope to add to the fun (and success) of the night with some lighthearted music dueling. Attendees can pay $1.00 to request and/or dedicate a song, $5.00 to request a song NOT be played for an hour, or $10.00 for a song to be banned for the night.

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at bcct.ludus.com or at the door on Feb. 15. Tickets are $40 per couple or $25 for a single ticket. Additionally, Valentine gift add-ons can be purchased through bcct.ludus.com ahead of time including a half dozen roses for $12 and a heart-shaped box of chocolates for $20.

Participants are encouraged to dress in their best formal or disco-era attire.

BCCT is always accepting members. If you’d like to be a part of bringing community theatre back to Bourbon County, visit the Bourbon County Community Theatre Facebook page and complete the form to become a new member.

Bourbon County, Clothing, Food, Fort Scott

Clothing and Food Donations Accepted by Bethsada Christian Church For Those In Need

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The west porch of Bethsada Christian Church, at 101 S. Judson, has donated items that are free to those in need at any time. Submitted photo.

Becky Cowlishaw purchased the former Christian Church at 101 S. Judson in 2016 and renamed it Bethsada Christian Church.

“About 7 years ago, in 2017,  I saw an idea a friend of mine had shared on Facebook that I wanted to replicate. I started taking donations to give away winter coats, gloves, hats, and scarves,” Cowlishaw said.
That idea soon turned into giving away donated clothing of all kinds as well as bric-brac and other household items, Cowlishaw said.
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Becky Cowlishaw. Submitted photo.
She knows there is a clothing need in the community and asks those wishing to donate clothing to do the following:
“1. I would prefer a message or text letting me know an approximate time frame, if at all possible,  as to when the donations will be dropped off.  This allows me to get the donations taken inside where I can separate and hang items if needed. If bags are left on the porch without my knowledge many times I will find the bags ripped and items scattered.
“2. Do not donate dirty items,  junk, trash, etc. That should go without saying but you would be surprised /shocked by what I have come across while going through bags and boxes.
“3. I ask that any items taken are for you or family members to personally use. I have had reports of items being taken with the purpose of selling those items.
“4. The donation box in the alley is not associated with the church.  I did ask for the box to be put there so that I could forward non-wanted items to another organization. Just know, if you put your bags of donations in the box in the alley, those donations are not staying local. It’s the donor’s choice, but wanted to clear up any possible confusion.”
Clothing donations to stay local are left on the west porch on Judson Street.
Food Is Available Also
The Blessing Box has nonperishable food for those in need. Submitted photo.
“I also have a food Blessing Box on the west side of the building,” she said.  “Should anyone have donations of non-perishable food items feel free to put your items in the box, no prior arrangements are necessary.”
“My intent and prayer is for the truly needy ( single mothers, folk with low income,  the unemployed, the homeless ) to possibly come across items that they or their family can use,” she said.
“I understand how much of a blessing it is to have my family’s needs met when I didn’t have the finances to meet those needs.  I want others to be blessed too.”
Donors can contact her through Messenger on Facebook pages at
Becky Caldwell Cowlishaw
Bethesda Christian Church
or
Email addresses:
or
Cell phone:
Submitted photo.
Bourbon County, Government

The Bourbon County Commission Meeting For Today Has Been Cancelled

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Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Brandon Whisenhunt

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

 

 

 

 

The meeting scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on January 6, 2025 has been cancelled due to the courthouse being closed due to inclement weather.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Area News, Bourbon County, Business, Government, Kansas

Stream Advisory Issued For Unnamed Tributary near 185th and Quail in Bourbon County

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In mid-December, a Pittsburg company was cited in northeast Bourbon County for not complying with Kansas laws on solid waste disposal. In 2024, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued five stream advisories in the State of Kansas.

“Radell Underground, Inc. was issued a Notice of Non-Compliance by KDHE, citing violation of K.S.A. 65-3409(a)(1) Disposal of solid waste by open dumping, on Dec. 13, for dumping the bore tailings and bore gel compound (containing bentonite and silica) as a slurry into the waterways shown on the attached map,” according to Jill Bronaugh, KDHE Communications Director in an email.

 

Radell bore dumping site in northeast Bourbon County. Submitted map.

 

“We do telecommunication (fiber optic cable) for CrawKan (Telephone Cooperative). One of our guys dumped mud where he wasn’t supposed to,” said Anthony McNeely a manager with Radell.

Organically modified bentonites effectively reduce the consumption of drilling fluids, conserve resources, and lessen environmental effects, according to https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10707903/

Industrial sand and gravel, often called “silica,” “silica sand,” and “quartz sand,” include sands and gravels with high silicon dioxide (SiO2) content. These sands are used in glassmaking; for foundry, abrasive, and hydraulic fracturing (frac) applications; and for many other industrial uses, according to https://www.usgs.gov/centers/national-minerals-information-center/silica-statistics-and-information

Radell Underground Inc. is a utility contractor that specializes in horizontal directional drilling, also known as boring. Their clients include AT&T, Evergy, CrawKan, and many more, according to their website.

“We met with Radell representatives to discuss the clean-up of the dumping sites and established a date of Jan. 10, to obtain the proper permits and approvals from the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who have jurisdiction over waterways. The clean-up is required to be completed by Jan. 20; at which time, the stream advisory will be rescinded,” Bronaugh said.

 

The following was posted on: December 13, 2024, on the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1385

Stream Advisory Issued for an Unnamed Tributary North of Fort Scott, Kansas

Stream Advisory

 

“Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a stream advisory for the unnamed tributary near 185th Street and Quail Road North of Fort Scott, Kansas.

The stream advisory is a result of multiple disposal sites from a boring operation that contained silica, bentonite, and a gel polymer near 185th Street and Quail Road North of Fort Scott, Kansas.

The advisory has been issued because of potential sediment and unknown contaminants being present in the unnamed tributary. If you live or have activities near this area, do not enter the stream or allow children or pets to enter the stream.

KDHE will rescind the advisory once secondary (wading) contact has been deemed safe.”

 

 

Area News, Bourbon County, Government

Delegates are being sought for the Kansas Silvered Haired Legislature.

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Delegates are being sought for the Kansas Silvered Haired Legislature.
The Kansas Silver Haired Legislature is a unicameral (one-chambered) legislature composed of 125 representatives across the state. SHL delegates are 60 years or older and are elected from their county of residence.
SEK Area Agency on Aging is seeking candidates to serve a two-year term representing their county. SEKAAA covers a 9-county area: Allen, Bourbon, Cherokee, Crawford, Labette, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson.
The legislature provides an educational experience in the political process and provides an opportunity to identify priority concerns of Kansas’ older adults.
The SHL develops bills and resolutions which are presented to the Kansas Legislature and the governor as recommendations for state policy.
SHLs were created by Congress in 1969 when each state was encouraged to create a body of older adults who would identify issues important to older adults 60+ and educate their state legislatures about those issues.
The Kansas Silver-Haired Legislature was created by a 1982 Senate resolution. The website for Kansas Silver-Haired Legislature is www.Kansas-shl.org
“It is important that the voice of older Kansans is heard,” says Kathy Brennon, SEKAAA Executive Director, “there are constant changes that have an impact on individuals 60 and older that can be overlooked. It is important to have this group that is solely focused on issues that impact older Kansans.”
If anyone is interested in being a delegate, they can request an application packet by emailing [email protected] or calling 620-431-2980. Applications must be received by February 3, 2025. If more than one person is interested in a position an election will be held on February 21, 2025. The term is for two years. March 1, 2025 to February 28, 2027.
Bourbon County

12/30/2024 Bourbon County Commissioner Meeting

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Commission approves map making five commissioner districts of Bourbon County.

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

The meeting opened with a full audience.

Dustin Lewis spoke to the commission regarding a potential housing unit Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). He expressed a desire to build a 20-30 2000 sq. ft. single home housing development. He said they were looking for right location to bring it into the area in the next year. He was not asking county for anything at this time.

Commissioner Harris said he was very excited about this opportunity and asked if there was anything the county to do to help. Nothing needed at this time.

A Legacy property MOU was also discussed. Commissioner Clifton Beth said, “We need development.”

The property under discussion is located near the hospital, and has a call back on it and the county must release it in order for Legacy to develop said property. Commissioners Beth and Harris said that Legacy has fulfilled it’s contract in light of the call back on the lots near the hospital. Wisenhunt said he’s never seen the contract. Beth read out some information from the MOU stating, “Lots one and two are transferred to KRI, already. Lot five would be transferred back to Bourbon County for EMS services.” Legacy will provide the quit claim deed to the county for filing before the year end. Legacy paid for the survey for lot 5.

Beth said, “I would like to see the land developed…Maybe this would be one that they could do.”

A citizen requested that the commission to wait to release the call backs on the 11 acres directly south of the hospital until Freeman opens the hospital in June to be sure Legacy has fulfilled their contract with the county. Beth expressed concern over losing the housing project to Crawford County.

Wisenhunt expressed his belief that it will take time to create the development, anyway and waiting until June isn’t a big deal.

Harris suggested tabling it for a week. Wisenhunt offered to do some research.

Kaety Bowers spoke to the commission as Republican County Chair, thanking Harris and Beth for their service and wishing Wisenhunt a successful completion of his term.

She then spoke “as a concerned citizen of Bourbon County.” She expressed desire to start the year off in a positive manner, then asked the commission to alleviate concerns she’s heard for a number of citizens by signing an affidavit, which she offered to read. Harris immediately asked for a week to review it. Bowers said, “perfect.” Upon looking over the document, Harris said, “I take this as an insult.”

“I apologize. It’s not meant that way,” she replied, reiterating that her intention is to be positive and not to tarnish anyone’s reputation. Harris expressed that any of his constituents could talk to him directly if they have questions. He asked where the Democrat Party chair was. Bowers said she had not been able to get a hold of him or her.

Beth agreed with Harris and asked why no one came to him directly with questions.

Harris said his reputation was tarnished when people lied about him in the newspaper and on Facebook.

Beth laughed at the idea that Facebook would be the place for him to answer questions.

Wisenhunt weighed in, addressing Beth: “First of all, there’s been several people stand at that podium and ask you questions, and you get exactly like that, Clifton. You are the most disrespectful commissioner I’ve seen in ANY committee meeting. I will sign it for you, Kaety, because I’m ___________ honest.” Citizen’s in attendance clapped at the end of his remarks.

“My intent with this was just to give you guys a chance in a public form,” said Bowers.

Beth and Wisenhunt began an argument about accusations of dishonesty and disrespect. Harris intervened and stopped the argument to continue the meeting.

Next, Mark McCoy with Bourbon County REDI addressed the commission regarding funds for work REDI had done in 2024.

Harris said that after looking at the budget, he doesn’t see any funds for them. He suggested that REDI regroup and start a new relationship with the new commission.

Wisenhunt: “I agree that we need economic development in our county. I think, money-wise, right now it’s a bad time. I would like to see REDI regroup, come back together and maybe start letting us know at least monthly what we’re working on, working towards, so we can get you the help from the County Commission if need be. We can reach out and get the community more involved in it.”

McCoy mentioned that communication between the county and the city should probably increase for successful of economic development. “Without everybody working together, it’s never going to happen.”

Justin Meeks, in his final acts as county counselor, reported that he hand-delivered the original Freeman agreements to Patrina Richards, general counsel for Freeman, and she expects to have them back by Jan. 3. “Once those are done, I think everything on the county’s end will be satisfied and we’ll be good to go down the road…. I’m excited to have them here. I think it will be good.”

Redistricting talk was the final agenda item. Commissioner Harris invited the citizen’s committee members to pull up a chair. He indicated that the maps had been available for viewing in the foyer before the meeting. Everyone then took about 6 minutes to look go to the foyer and look over the maps during the meeting.

Clifton Beth preferred map Number 2, as did the rest of the commission and those members of the committee that Harris heard from. Harris made the motion to accept Map 2, and the commission voted unanimously to do so.

Wisenhunt then made motion to adopt the resolution 15 for 2024 establishing commission districts for Bourbon County changing the number of commission districts from 3 to 5, per the vote of Nov. 5, 2024.

There was not further discussion from the audience or commission and the motion carried.

Another motion to create a special election on or before April 15, 2025 to fill the new districts was also carried unanimously.

Commission comments wrapped up the meeting. First, Wisenhunt apologized for his attitude and losing his cool earlier in the meeting. Next, Jim Harris mentioned, regarding his response to Katie Bower’s affidavit, “Please don’t question my integrity, my honestly, and my love for Jesus Christ. I’m going to walk away in a week with a good conscience.”

Bourbon County, Government

Minutes from the Bourbon County Commission Meeting on December 23

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December 23, 2024                                                                                                          Monday, 5:30 p.m.

 

 

 

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

 

Heather Ethridge, Deb McCoy, Mike Wunderly, Tim Emerson, Anne Dare, Michael Hoyt, Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, Marita Meech, Elizabeth Meech, and Kaety Bowers were present for some or all of the meeting.

 

Jim opened the meeting with the flag salute.

 

Clifton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes approval of minutes from 12-19-2024 and approval of November financials. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Heather Ethridge, President of West Plains and Centerville Cemeteries stated she has a problem with the cemetery plot deeds. Heather stated they have several deeds that have not been registered with the county and that she doesn’t need them filed, only scanned in. Heather said the Register of Deeds office informed her it would cost $23.00 per deed to file. Heather asked for the fees to be waived. Clifton said we would have to waive for all cemeteries and questioned if it was a state requirement to charge the fee. Brandon stated Lora Holdridge, Register of Deeds, text him and said it is a state statute that requires them to charge the fee. Jim suggested letting them talk to the Register of Deeds office and putting the matter back on the agenda in two weeks.

 

Deb McCoy asked the Commissioners if we follow state guidelines for the abatement process as she was informed that Bourbon County doesn’t have any policies or procedures in place. Deb stated that Legacy Healthcare notarized their abatement application in March 2024 and chose the exemption reason of KSA 79-201b which is for hospitals. Deb stated they have not been operating as a hospital and questioned why they were allowed to use that exemption and who knew about the application as she does not remember it being discussed in open meeting. Deb asked if the Commissioners would do the same with the lots that Legacy broke off from the original parcel that the county donated to them in 2022. Jim stated it is hard to explain how helpful Legacy was with getting KRI and Freeman here and that the state forgave the tax dollars.

 

Anne Dare said she did some digging in her documents and that BEDCO hired Rob Harrington in 2021 and the name of the organization was changed to REDI. Anne expressed her concerns regarding the amount of county funds that were being spent so quickly at the end of the year. Anne stated she has not filed a KORA request yet but questioned where the spending for this year is in relation to the past few years at the end of year. Anne said she received a report through a KORA request for the amount that Bourbon County has paid to REDI and it is $630,000 total and she implored the Commissioners not to fund REDI and if they do to have a written contract going forward. Anne stated she wished the Sheriff could use the in person in house for budget help instead of paying $34,000 for a financial advisor. Anne said she remembers when the survey for the lot behind the EMS building was approved in open session and she requested the invoice for the services and was informed that Bourbon County has not received an invoice. Anne closed her statement urging the Commissioners to be careful with tax dollars.

 

Michael Hoyt said he would speak later about the redistricting and said that he thought there was some confusion about him circulating a petition and leading the redistricting committee and asked why it was a bad thing.

 

Pete Owenby asked if REDI requested the $75,000 during budget time. Clifton stated they put the money for REDI in a contingency fund along with the soil conservation district. Pete asked if we had a contract with REDI and Jim stated no, it was just a verbal vote for funding. Pete asked if the City of Fort Scott or USD 234 were supporting REDI. Jim stated he was unaware of anybody supporting REDI.

 

Kelly Perry stated she is a small business owner in Bronson. Kelly said that there is an organization at Kansas State University that could redistrict the maps and possibly save some tax dollars. Kelly stated she does not think that funding should be spent on REDI. Kelly stated that REDI is a 501(c)(3) and that due to their stated charitable purposes she does not think it allows them to bill us for economic development. Kelly stated she served on the REDI board and that she had to sign an NDA but suggested looking at their by-laws and charters as well as looking into if they are legally able to bill us for economic development. Kelly stated she tries to be non-biased and to be good to people while not being self-serving and that she has not spoken out due to the fear of backlash. Kelly stated if anybody had any questions to reach out to her.

 

Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, stated he has a utility permit application for Dale Jackson for 160th Street south of Wagon Road. Eric said a few years ago the utilities were run but were not in conduit and now is asking to redo and put the utilities in conduit. Brandon asked if they would bore or trench the road. Eric said they would trench the gravel road and that Mr. Jackson owns the parcels on both sides of the road. Brandon made a motion to give Dale Jackson a utility permit for 160th Street south of Wagon road for utilities across the road since both parcels are his. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, asked to amend the agenda to speak about an invoice. Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to allow the County Clerk to speak. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved. Jennifer stated she received an invoice this afternoon from KWORCC who is our workers compensation insurance. Jennifer explained that the way we are billed is an estimated premiums amount is sent at the beginning of the year then our account is audited and any additional premiums will be billed. Jennifer stated the estimated premiums invoice for 2025 is $111,375.00 which is $27,488.00 more than last year. Jennifer stated the additional premiums over the last few years have been anywhere from $6,000 to over $21,000. Jennifer said the total amount of premiums paid to KWORCC in 2024 was $92,443.00, so during the budget process a total of $110,000 was budgeted for 2025. Jennifer stated she wanted the Commissioners to be aware of the increased amount due.

 

Jim asked if the Commissioners had any questions regarding the Freeman agreements that were passed out during last week’s meeting. Clifton made a motion to accept the MOU and to allow the Chairman to sign it with Freeman of Fort Scott. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved. Jim said he would sign the agreement and told the County Clerk that Justin would like a copy. Jim said they went over the equipment list with Dr. Nichols, Justin, and Freeman and that it is listed in the equipment agreement handed out last week. Brandon made a motion to approve the equipment list agreement with Freeman of Fort Scott and to allow the Chairman to sign it. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved. Jim said he needs to amend the agenda to talk about a letter that Freeman needs for the IRS. It was determined that the letter would fall under Freeman agreements, so the agenda was not amended. Brandon asked if the letter is for their tax exemption. Jim said the letter states that Freeman intends to be operation by 6-1-25 and Clifton added it says funding is contingent upon the 6-1-25 date. Clifton made a motion to approve the letter Freeman needs for the IRS and to allow Chairman Harris to sign it. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Sheriff Bill Martin was back with Ben Hart from Baker Tilly. Jim asked the other Commissioners if they had any questions after the discussion at last week’s meeting. Jim said that Susan sent them reports that showed the County Counselor had $21,800 left in his budget, there is $64,000 in the courthouse maintenance fund, and $50,000 in the Commission contingency fund. Brandon said he doesn’t know why we need to pay for two bookkeepers. Jim said that next year the CFO position will go away. Bill asked Ben Hart to explain the reasoning. Mr. Hart said there are two ways of looking at budget numbers and that he would handle things a different way and will have input from the elected official. Mr. Hart said that the levy for the Sheriff’s budget has gone down the last few years even though operations go up. Jim said that County Counselor Meeks has informed him that Bill can enter into a contract without the Commission’s approval. Clifton made a motion to transfer $36,000 to Sheriff Martin out of the Commission contingency fund by the end of business tomorrow. Jim asked Clifton to add to his motion that if for some reason that money has been moved to take it out of the building maintenance fund as well as the counselor fund. Clifton added “that if the money is mysteriously missing then that money be taken out of the building maintenance fund to transfer to Sheriff Martin to pay Baker Tilly for services and/or the county counselor fund.” Brandon said he had a question. Jim stated he had a motion and Clifton added “ so, anyway $36,000 transferred to Sherrif Martin not out of his accounts out of the accounts I stated so that he can hire Baker Tilly to assist him in 2025, by the end of business day tomorrow.” Jim asked if the contract will be December to December? Ben Hart stated that was correct. Jim seconded the motion. Brandon questioned why the amount requested this week was $36,000 when last week it was stated $34,000? Mr. Hart said the agreement you have has never changed it is $3,000 per month. Brandon opposed the motion. The motion passed 2-1.

 

Jim requested a 10-minute executive session for non-elected personnel. Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel to protect their privacy to include the three Commissioners and Patty Love and will return at 6:32. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:32 with no action. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Jim said he had a contractor call today and they want to be on the agenda next week for a possible housing development for. Jim handed out an MOU for the other Commissioners to review for next week and said it pertains to the possible opportunity for some new housing south of town. Jim said it is estimated 20 to 25 houses and that the company will be here next week to do a presentation. Samuel Tran asked if the name of the company could be released and Jim stated it is Middle Water LLC out of Overland Park.

 

Michael Hoyt said he received letters of interest for those who wish to be on the redistricting committee. Mr. Hoyt gave the list of names to the Commissioner and said he would like to step back from the committee. Clifton said that SAM will do the redistricting and present the Commissioners with three maps for them to choose from. Jim said he would like the committee to get together for the redistricting. Brandon asked why not do it all at once have the committee present when the maps are given next Monday then open it up to the public. Kay Tran asked if the public would be allowed to speak and Jim said yes, they would. Pete Owenby asked what the state statute outlines for the process. Brandon said it is the Commissioner’s decision and then it will be sent to the state to file the new map. Jim said he is confident that they can make a decision next week. Brandon read the list of names provided by Michael Hoyt and they are: Kelly Perry, Jim Sackett, and Ron Miller for district one, Josh Jones, Don and Jean Tucker, and Pete Allen for district two, and JD Handly for district 3. Kaety Bowers asked to be added to the list.

 

Jim made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:42. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.

 

 

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

___________________, Chairman

___________________,Commissioner

ATTEST:                                                                                                  ___________________,Commissioner

                                                                       

Selena Williams, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk

12-30-2024                     Approved Date