Category Archives: Bourbon County

Area News, Bourbon County

K-7 pavement repair project to start at Girard into Bourbon County

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In early November, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) expects to begin a pavement repair project on a 500-foot section of K-7 at Girard. K-7 will be closed to traffic north of K-47. A state route detour will be signed on K-47, U.S. 69 and K-39 (see map).

 

Project activity includes repairs to the base drains and replacing the water lines and pavement. KDOT awarded the construction contract of $388,686 to Mission Construction, St. Paul. Weather permitting, the work should be completed by mid-December.

 

Persons with questions may contact KDOT Pittsburg Area Engineer Kyler Farmer at (620) 308-7617, or Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433. Check KDOT’s updated traveler information website, www.Kandrive.org, for more highway condition and construction details.

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Commission Revised Agenda for Oct. 25

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Date: October 25, 2022
1st District–Nelson Blythe Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District–Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk–Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM BEGINNING at 9:00AM.
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Approval of Accounts Payable/Payroll
• Jerry Witt – FS BBCO Riverfront Authority Appointment of Committee Member
• Burn Ban Discussion
• Ashley Shelton – Gas Price Lock In
• North Parking/Sidewalk Project
• Jim Harris – Executive Session KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual
nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer Comment
o Financial Report
o KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to
protect their privacy
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
o KSA 75–4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney–client relationship
o KSA 75–4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to
protect their privacy
o KSA 75–4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of
such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Public Comment
• Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session:
KSA 75–4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
KSA 75–4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney–client relationship
KSA 75–4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer–employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency
KSA 75–4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
KSA 75–4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property
KSA 75–4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.

Bourbon County, Elections, Kansas

The November 2022 Election Voting Starts This Week

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The general election will be November 8, but those who wish to, may vote earlier.

Early voting will begin Wednesday, October 26th and will be open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and will end on Monday, November 7th at noon.

People may vote at the  Bourbon County Courthouse, 210 S. National Ave. in the commission room.

To view the sample ballot:

Sample 22GKSBOU

“We provide early voting to allow everyone the opportunity to vote, which is why we started offering Saturday voting,” said Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Clerk. “We had a good turnout in the primary for early voting and a lot of positive comments regarding Saturday voting. We will continue to offer Saturday voting as an option if people continue to utilize it.”

Ashley Shelton. Submitted photo.

In addition to selecting candidates, there will be two questions on this ballot, one about  the election of sheriffs and one about Kansas legislative oversight.

 

Taken from the ballot:

County Sheriff Question

 

This amendment would preserve the
right of citizens of each county
that elected a county sheriff  to continue
electing the county sheriff. The
amendment would also provide
that a county sheriff only may be
involuntarily removed from office
pursuant to either a recall election
or a writ of quo warranto initiated
by the attorney general.

A writ of quo warranto is a common law remedy which is used to challenge a person’s right to hold a public or corporate office, according to https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/quo_warranto

A  yes vote for this proposition would
preserve the right of citizens of
each county, to
continue electing the county sheriff
via popular vote. The amendment
would also direct that a county
sheriff only may be involuntarily
removed from office pursuant to
either a recall election or a writ
of quo warranto initiated by the
attorney general.


A  no vote against this proposition
would not make any changes to
the constitution and would retain
current law concerning the election
of a sheriff and the procedures for
involuntary removal of a sheriff from
office.

The amendment states:

County and township
officers. (a) Except as provided
in subsection (b), each county
shall elect a sheriff for a term of
four years by a majority of the
qualified electors of the county
voting thereon at the time of voting
designated for such office pursuant
to law in effect on January 11, 2022,
and every four years thereafter.
(b) The provisions of subsection
(a) shall not apply to a county
that abolished the office of sheriff
prior to January 11, 2022. Such
county may restore the office of
sheriff as provided by law and such
restoration shall be irrevocable.
A county that restores the office
of sheriff shall elect a sheriff by a
majority of the qualified electors
of the county voting thereon for a
term of four years. Such sheriff shall
have such qualifications and duties
as provided by law. The time of
voting for the office of sheriff may
be provided for by the legislature
pursuant to section 18 of article 2 of
this constitution.
(c) The filling of vacancies and the
qualifications and duties of the
office of sheriff shall be as provided
by law.
(d) The legislature shall provide for
such other county and township
officers as may be necessary.
§ 5. Removal of officers. (a) Except
as provided in subsection (b), all
county and township officers may
be removed from office, in such
manner and for such cause, as shall
be prescribed by law.
(b) A county sheriff only may be
involuntarily removed from office by
recall election pursuant to section 3
of article 4 of this constitution or a
writ of quo warranto initiated by the
attorney general.

From Bourbon County Counselor Justin Meeks,

“A yes vote would require counties to maintain a sheriff as an elected official,”

The Question of Legislative Oversight

The purpose of this amendment is
to provide the legislature with
oversight of state executive branch
agencies and officials by providing
the legislature authority to establish
procedures to revoke or suspend
rules and regulations.


A yes  vote for this proposition would
allow the legislature to establish
procedures to revoke or suspend
rules and regulations that are
adopted by state executive branch
agencies and officials that have the
force and effect of law.


A no vote against this proposition
would allow state executive branch
agencies and officials to continue
adopting rules and regulations
that have the force and effect
of law without any opportunity
for the legislature to directly
revoke or suspend such rules and regulations.

Legislative oversight of administrative rules and
regulations.


Whenever the legislature by law has
authorized any officer or agency
within the executive branch of
government to adopt rules and
regulations that have the force and
effect of law, the legislature may
provide by law for the revocation
or suspension of any such rule and
regulation, or any portion thereof,
upon a vote of a majority of the
members then elected or appointed
and qualified in each house.

From Bourbon County Counselor Justin Meeks,

“This will basically allow the legislature to overturn regulations created by agencies, environmental agency for example,” Meeks said. “It would take away some of the governor’s administrative powers.”

Justin Meeks, Bourbon County Counselor. Submitted photo.
Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Oct. 25

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Date: October 25, 2022
1st District–Nelson Blythe Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District–Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk–Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM BEGINNING at 9:00AM.
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Jerry Witt – FS BBCO Riverfront Authority Appointment of Committee Member
• Ashley Shelton – Gas Price Lock In
• Jim Harris – Executive Session KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Transient Guest Tax
• Susan Bancroft – KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer Comment
o Financial Report
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Public Comment
• Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session:
KSA 75–4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
KSA 75–4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney–client relationship
KSA 75–4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer–employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency
KSA 75–4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
KSA 75–4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property
KSA 75–4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Bank Reconciliation Ending September 30, 2022.22.10.21

Quarterly Report 22.10.21

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Housing

Thirty-five Properties Sold At The County Tax Sale, 36 Go To Land Bank

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Patty Love. Submitted photo.

The second property tax sale this year added over $86,000 to Bourbon County treasurer’s funds, with the unsold properties deeded over to the Fort Scott Land Bank.

The Bourbon County treasurer collects and distributes all real and personal property taxes. The tax districts that receive this are the City of Fort Scott, the Bourbon County government, and the county’s two school districts- USD 234 and USD 235.

“There were 35 properties that sold at the October 13, 2022 tax sale for a total of $86,514.09,” said Patty Love, Bourbon County Treasurer.   “The 36 properties that did not receive a bid are all properties inside Fort Scott that have City special assessments on them.  These properties are being deeded over to the Fort Scott  Land Bank. The money collected from the tax sale will be distributed to the various tax districts just like the regular tax collections.”

“Once the property has been sold and Register of Deeds issues the new deed they become like any other property of the tax roll and the new owners will be responsible for the 2022 taxes,” Love said.

To see info on the prior 2022 tax sale:

Bourbon County Tax Sale Nets $129K

 

The function of the Fort Scott Land Bank Board is as an independent agency with the City  of Fort Scott that acquires, holds, manages, transforms, and conveys surplus city properties and other abandoned, tax foreclosed, or otherwise underutilized or distressed properties in order to convey these properties for productive use, according to a prior city press release.

Currently serving on the Land Bank Advisory Board are Craig Campbell (Chairperson), Gregg Motley, Bailey Lyons,  Tim VanHoecke, Robert Coon, Patrick Wood and Jim Harris.

To learn more about Fort Scott Land Bank:

Land Bank by Gregg Motley

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Meeting Minutes of Oct. 11

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The Regular Council Meeting on October 11, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger (7:02), Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Raymond George (Uniontown Ruritan), Kyle Knight (Knight’s Tree Service), City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Painting is supposed to be finished, electrician should be in next week.  He is trying to get LACO to donate the guttering.  Hopeful to have it finished by next month.  Clerk Johnson asked what times they wanted to have the locks set to unlock/lock – during central standard time, 7am-5pm, during central daylight time, 7am-10pm.  Signage for the doors needs to be ordered.  Council directed clerk to order blue background with braille.

 

Kyle Knight, Knight’s Tree Service, suggested trimming tree canopy over Washington Street from First Street to Seventh Street, Sherman Street from Fifth Street to Sixth Street, and the one tree on Sixth Street west of Methodist Church.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to get quotes for trimming canopy over Washington Street from First Street to Seventh Street, Sherman Street from Fifth Street to Sixth Street, and the one tree on Sixth Street west of Methodist Church to a height of 18’ and back from street to main trunk and to be able to start within 10 days, not to exceed $3,500.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

East Coast Trip Fundraiser – a group of junior high students are raising funds to take a trip to Washington DC, Mount Vernon, and Gettysburg in July 2023.  They are asking for donations to defray the cost.  The City of Uniontown historically does not donate tax revenue to fundraisers except the Send Off Seniors after graduation party.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger presented the September 2022 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $363,858.59, Receipts $42,963.45, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $35,368.83, Checking Account Closing Balance $368,427.21. Bank Statement Balance $369,935.26, including Checking Account Interest of $30.37, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $1,508.05, Reconciled Balance $368,427.21.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,127.37, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,621.26, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,406.10, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $445,581.94. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $269.90, and Utility CDs $253.30 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $523.20.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of September 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  September Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Total Transfers of $3,026.00.  Net Income for the month of September $4,568.62, Year-to-Date Net Income $44,683.71.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $86,225.64 (81.8%), Expenditures $82,163.60 (62.9%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $26,324.90 (73.7%), Expenditures $28,239.03 (68.9%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $105,077.39 (75.3%), Expenditures $111,413.74 (45.4%); General Fund YTD Revenue $127,710.65 (99.4%), Expenditures $109,019.30 (66.0%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $5625.70 (82.1%), Expenditures $7,768.61 (73.1%).  The October 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $33,126.10 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

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

  • Minutes of September 13, 2022, Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing, Budget Hearing and Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Lead and Copper additional sample results have been received.  KDHE has invalidated the first sample results from 601 Fifth St and replaced it with the new sample results.  They will not accept the two additional samples as they are not on our approved site sampling plan.  KDHE is hosting a Public Meeting for Public Water Supply Lead and Copper Rule Implementation.  Clerk Johnson asked if Superintendent Rich and she could attend on October 12, 2022 in Chanute from 1-3PM.  Council gave permission for both to attend.

The east rollup door at the barn will not raise – one of the overhead springs is broken and both springs need replaced.  Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan will forward some recommendations for making repairs.

Rich thanked the Council for the vacation time.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported Smith Estate demolition is progressing and he feels they should have completed by the end of the month.

 

Clerk Johnson reminded Council that the November regular meeting was rescheduled for Tuesday, November 15, 7PM.  Councilmember Ervin and Kelly will be unable to attend.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to reschedule November regular meeting on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, 7PM due to possible lack of quorum.

 

Clerk Johnson will post the rescheduled date and put in the newsletter and on the billing cards.

Bourbon County REDI Visioning Session II was rescheduled to October 12, 2022, 5:30PM, at Uniontown High School Commons Area.  RSVP by 10/10/22.  Jurgensen, Ervin, Stewart, and maybe Esslinger will attend.  Johnson will post the possible quorum attending and that no city business will be discussed.  She will also RSVP even though date has passed.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – his Midwest Fertilizer email is no longer valid as he has changed jobs.

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – absent

Councilwoman Kelly – has anyone claimed the stray black/white collie mix?  Animal Control Officer has been trying to catch, but unable to get close enough.

Councilman Stewart – has some recommendations for outdoor exercise equipment.

Mayor Jurgensen –USD 235 has some surplus chairs that they are giving away.  He had Rich get all he could for the Community Center, 54.  We will check to see if there is going to be any more available, then decide what to do with the metal folding chairs we currently have.

 

OLD BUSINESS

School Pond Project – Per Don George, KDWPT, we do not have to send out for bids again.  Two quotes were received for the placement of riprap – Eden Landscaping, $20,540, and Mix Contracting, $9,360.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to award contract to Mix Contracting, $9,360

 

Timing of starting will have to be coordinated with Bourbon County Public Works (supplying 4”-6” rock) and Mix Contracting.

 

Placemaking Survey – Mayor Jurgensen has formed a committee for selecting outdoor exercise equipment and will be meeting soon.

 

American Rescue Plan Act update – no other quotes were received for the ADA restroom upgrade at City Hall.  Clerk Johnson will reach out to French Plumbing to see if he is still interested in submitting a quote.

 

Trunk or Treat is scheduled for October 31.  Clerk Johnson purchased three bags of mini tootsie pops.  Amber Kelly will distribute on behalf of the City.  Flu Shot Clinic, Monday, October 17 at Community Center.  November 1, KMU will conduct a water training on Lead and Copper Revised Rule and Surface Water Treatment.

 

NEW BUSINESS

None

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 8:43PM

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

Bourbon County VS Rachel Pruitt

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The following was submitted to fortscott.biz

BBCA Case No: 2022–TC–0474
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
STATE OF KANSAS, Plaintiff, )

vs.

RACHEL MAE PRUITT, Defendant.


Complaint
COMPLAINT/INFORMATION
I, Tiana M McElroy, the undersigned County Attorney of Bourbon County, Kansas, in the name and by the authority and on behalf of the State of Kansas, come here now and give the Court
to understand and be informed that:


COUNT I
COMPUTER CRIME
That on or about or between the 3rd day of July, 2019 and the 1st day of August, 2019, in Bourbon County, Kansas, one RACHEL MAE PRUITT, did unlawfully use a computer, computer system,
computer network or any other property for the purpose of devising or executing a scheme or artifice with the intent to defraud or to obtain money, property, services or any other thing of value
by means of false or fraudulent pretense or representation. In violation of 21–5839(a)(2)(b)(1), Computer Crime, a Severity Level 8 Nonperson Felony. (minimum months 7, maximum months
23) (Fine up to $100,000.00).


COUNT II
COMPUTER CRIME
That on or about or between the 3rd day of July, 2019 and the 1st day of August, 2019, in Bourbon County, Kansas, one RACHEL MAE PRUITT, did unlawfully use a computer, computer system, computer network or any other property for the purpose of devising or executing a scheme or artifice with the intent to defraud or to obtain money, property, services or any other thing of value
by means of false or fraudulent pretense or representation. In violation of 21–5839(a)(2)(b)(1),
Computer Crime, a Severity Level 8 Nonperson Felony. (minimum months 7, maximum months
23) (Fine up to $100,000.00).


COUNT III
MAKING FALSE INFORMATION
That on or about or between the 3rd day of July, 2019 and the 1st day of August, 2019, in Bourbon County, Kansas, one RACHEL MAE PRUITT, did unlawfully make, generate, distribute, draw, or
cause to be made, generated, distributed or drawn a written instrument, entry in a book of account or an electronic data entry, to–wit: a Flex Build, LLC invoice, with knowledge that such
information falsely states or represents some material matter, or is not what it purports to be, and done with the intent to defraud, to obstruct the detection of a theft or felony offense, or to induce
official action. In violation of K.S.A. 21–5824, Making False Information, a Severity Level 8
Nonperson Felony. (minimum months 7, maximum months 23).


COUNT IV
MAKING FALSE INFORMATION
That on or about or between the 3rd day of July, 2019 and the 1st day of August, 2019, in Bourbon County, Kansas, one RACHEL MAE PRUITT, did unlawfully make, generate, distribute, draw, or
cause to be made, generated, distributed or drawn a written instrument, entry in a book of account or an electronic data entry, to–wit: a Flex Build, LLC invoice, with knowledge that such
information falsely states or represents some material matter, or is not what it purports to be, and done with the intent to defraud, to obstruct the detection of a theft or felony offense, or to induce
official action. In violation of K.S.A. 21–5824, Making False Information, a Severity Level 8
Nonperson Felony. (minimum months 7, maximum months 23).


ENDORSEMENT OF WITNESSES
Officer(s): Evidence Custodian; SA Chris Farris; KBI Forensic Scientist; SA Anthony Maness;
Witness(es): Kevin Kent Allen; Susan Elizabeth Bancroft; Det. Judd Brungardt; William Lloyd Carter Jr; Major Andrew Carver; Jeffrey Deane; Rhonda Dunn;
Flexbuild; Anthony Joseph Krsnich; David Bryan Martin; Debra K McCoy; Paul Brian Wagner; Denton Jacob Wescoat;
Victim(s): City of Fort Scott;
I declare under penalty that the above and foregoing is true and correct. Executed on
Tuesday, September 6, 2022.
/s/ Tiana M McElroy
Tiana M McElroy, #21599
County Attorney
210 S National Ave., Ste. 22
Fort Scott, KS 66701
(620) 223–2910
Attorney for State.

ELECTRONICALLY FILED
2022 Sep 06 PM 3:34
CLERK OF THE BOURBON COUNTY DISTRICT COURT
CASE NUMBER: BB-2022-CR-000320
PII COMPLIANTBBCA Case No: 2022–TC–0474

Bourbon County

American Legion Vice Commander Stops in Fort Scott Oct. 25

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Thompson-Harkey American Legion Post #25

1 East 3rd Street

Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-224-4733

Media Advisory

American Legion National Vice-Commander visiting Fort Scott American Legion Post #25 on a stop for his Kansas American Legion Posts Tour.

 

Who: National American Vice-Commander Glenn Wahus.

What: Will meet with American Legion Members, American Legion Riders Members, Sons of the American Legion Members, and American Legion Auxiliary Members to introduce himself and to discuss The American Legion Agenda for the 2023 Fiscal Year.

When: October 25, 2022, at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Memorial Hall, 1 East Third Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701.

 

Media Contact: Jessica Allison, Commander, American Legion Post #25, 620-224-4733, [email protected]

 

Bourbon County, Business, Health Care

Walmart Grants $3,500 to Bourbon County EMS

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Walmart Provides $3,500 Grant to Bourbon County EMS to address the need for workout equipment for employees.

 

Grant Presented to Bourbon County EMS During a Check Presentation Ceremony at 405 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS 66701

Fort Scott, KS October 18, 2022– Walmart announced today a $3,500 grant to Bourbon County Emergency Medical Services to address the need for workout equipment for employees. The grant was presented to Paramedic Supervisor Jon Lowery and EMS Director Teri Hulsey at a check presentation ceremony at Bourbon County EMS, 405 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS 66701.  The grant was facilitated by Bourbon County Regional Economic Development, Inc.

 

Each year, Walmart U.S. stores and clubs award local cash grants ranging from $250 to $5,000.  These local grants are designed to address the unique needs of the communities where they operate.  For Walmart of Fort Scott, it’s about making sure our local EMS has access to the tools and equipment needed to keep our community members safe, including Walmart employees and shoppers.  The mission of Bourbon County EMS is to provide a 24-hour operation to reduce the loss of life and property and to protect the environment.  The highest priority is to protect Bourbon County residents from all hazards by providing and coordinating resources, expertise, leadership and advocacy through a comprehensive, risk-based emergency preparedness program of mitigation, management, response and recovery.

 

Through the grant, EMS will purchase a weight bench, barbells and plates, a dumbbell set, a squat cage, a bike and a treadmill.  Having this grant allows equipment to be purchased without using funds from Bourbon County or Fort Scott.

 

Supervisor Jon Lowery states that EMS is a physically demanding job, and it is imperative that employees have access to equipment that allows them to be in top physical shape.  Staying in top physical condition reduces injuries that could be sustained by crew or patients while moving or lifting patients, stretchers, equipment or other activities that could present in crisis situations such as fire or car accidents.

 

Bourbon County EMS has responded to 1,927 calls so far this year.  These calls range from 911, transfers and dry runs.

 

 

 

# # #

About Philanthropy at Walmart

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are committed to helping people live better through philanthropic efforts that draw on the strengths of Walmart in the arenas of sustainability, economic opportunity, and community. As part of our commitment to creating a more sustainable food system worldwide, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are leading the fight against hunger in the United States. They recently exceeded a $2 billion goal to fight hunger one year ahead of schedule and have donated more than 1.5 billion pounds of food to those in need across the country. To learn more about Walmart’s giving, visit www.foundation.walmart.com.

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Health Care

Dr. Burke: Same Location, Different Medical Group Starting Nov. 21

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Dr. Katrina Burke opened her medical practice with Ascension Via Christi on Jan. 13, 2020. The office is located at 109 S. Main. As of November 21, 2022, she will be under the auspices of Girard Medical Center at the same office space.

On November 21, Dr. Katrina Burke will be under the auspices of Girard Medical Center of Fort Scott and will begin seeing patients at the same office in downtown Fort Scott where she has been located for two years.

Dr. Katrina Burke. Submitted photo.

“All of Dr. Burke’s staff will be staying on, including nurse practitioner, Kristi Harbit,” said Ruth Duling, Chief Executive Officer of Girard Medical Center.

Kristi Harbit. Submitted photo.

“We really want to emphasize that the clinic is in the same location!” she said. ” Dr. Burke is not leaving the Fort Scott medical community.  She loves her patient population there and she and her staff will continue to provide the same great service they always have.”

Ruth Duling, CEO of Girard Medical Center. Submitted photo.

“There will be a few days between the last day for Ascension Via Christi and the first day for us, as we will need a few days to reset and get computers in place, etc,” Duling said.

“Patients can call the office to ask that their records be transferred from the Via Christi Clinic to the GMC Clinic,” she said.  “It’s just a matter of getting their records from the Via Christi electronic health record system to ours, but patients do have to request for that transfer to be made.”

The office number is 620-223-7008.

Hours of operation will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and  8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday.

“We are extremely happy to have the opportunity to bring Dr. Burke and her staff into the Girard Medical Center family,” Duling said.  “It’s no secret that Dr. Burke is well respected by her patients, her colleagues, and the medical community.”

“Girard Medical Center is fortunate to have family practice clinics in Girard, Frontenac, Arma, Cherokee, and in another Bourbon County community, Uniontown,” she said.  “We do family practice well!  We’re excited to have a physical presence in Fort Scott and we’re equally excited to have Dr Burke’s patients become more familiar with Girard Medical Center.”

“Rest assured, we are doing everything we can to make a smooth transition and to ensure that Dr. Burke, Kristi and the staff are able to continue to provide the same great service they always have and it’s an added plus to be in the exact same location,” Duling said.