Category Archives: Bourbon County

Agenda Packet for the Uniontown City Council on November 11

10142025 Regular Meeting

ORDINANCE NO. 207- Vacate alley Lots 4,5,12,13, block 2, Well’s Addition

2025 Financials-October

ROLL CALL:  ___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Vacating Alley Between Lots 4, 5, 12 and 13, Block 2, Well’s Addition

 

Memorial Stone Design

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Sally Johnson – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
  2. October Treasurers Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & November Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Codes Enforcement:  Doug Coyan

 

 

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

 

 

 

Clerk Report:  Haley Arnold

Park 240 Outlets

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilman Kelly –

Councilwoman Pemberton –

Councilwoman Pritchett –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

SEED Grant –

 

FEMA Flooding–

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Motion by _____________, Second by   __________, Approved ______, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at ____________.

 

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

 

Peerless Products Rebrands

Peerless Products Inc., 2403 S. Main, Fort Scott.

Peerless Products Unveils Rebrand In Bold Step Forward for Company Growth and Innovation
New website, brand design reflect leading manufacturer’s commitment to excellence

FORT SCOTT, Kan. (November 5, 2025) – Peerless Products, a leading manufacturer of high-performance curtain walls, windows and doors, announced a comprehensive brand refresh to reflect its continued growth and the exceptional quality of its products and services. The rebrand includes a new logo, color palette, brand voice, website, anthem video and storybook—each showcasing Peerless’s drive to deliver state-of-the-art manufacturing, engineering and innovation.

“At Peerless, we’re constantly striving upward, and our new brand look reflects our ongoing evolution,” said president Coby Jones. “As we continue to build on our 70-year legacy of quality, innovation and strong customer relationships, this new direction is a testament to our continuous drive for improvement and our dedication to engineering solutions that truly matter.”

Peerless has continued to experience strong growth across its national footprint, with several large-scale Talon Wall®, commercial and multifamily projects underway in markets such as Kansas City, Seattle, Chicago and Dallas. To keep pace with demand, the company has increased its workforce at all three of its locations in Fort Scott, Kan., Nevada, Mo. and Iola, Kan.

Since 1952, Peerless has built a reputation for excellence, true to its namesake, in everything from materials to process, engineering to testing, packaging to partnerships, and on-time delivery to on-demand solutions. Specializing in aluminum and hybrid fiber resin windows and doors, the company offers a variety of capabilities across a project’s lifespan, including customized design, engineering, sustainable and long-lasting powder coating, in-house testing, 3D prototyping and aluminum extrusion. Peerless also offers a patented curtain wall system, Talon Wall®, which is lab-tested and certified to the industry’s most demanding air, water, thermal, seismic, fire and acoustic standards.

Peerless services a versatile range of building types within the multifamily, hospitality, historic, government and military, school and university, office and medical sectors. Peerless manufactures, services and distributes from the heart of the U.S., but its portfolio extends far beyond the Midwest, including several projects from coast to coast. Peerless has produced windows for some of the most demanding applications in the country, including projects like the Hudson Exchange residential buildings in Jersey City, N.J., Universal’s Stella Nova Resort in Orlando, Fla., the Lees-McRae College’s Historical Commons in Banner Elk, N.C., the Texas Tech University Honors Hall in Lubbock, Texas and more.

A video for their rebrand can be viewed here. Assets can be found here.

About Peerless Products

Peerless Products is a leading U.S. manufacturer of high-performance curtain walls, windows and doors. With a legacy dating back to 1952, Peerless is dedicated to delivering superior quality, innovative engineering and unparalleled customer service. The company’s commitment to continuous improvement and enduring partnerships makes it the best choice for complex architectural applications. Learn more at peerlessproducts.com.

###

Bourbon County Food Drive to Support Local Families in Need

Healthy Bourbon County Action Team office is located at 104 N. National. Phone: 620.224.2563

 

The annual Bourbon County Food Drive is underway, running through November 17th, to collect non-perishable food and hygiene items for families in need across the county.

 

This year’s effort is championed by Fort Scott Middle School teacher Lori Nelsen and supported by Healthy Bourbon County Action Team’s (HBCAT) Local Health Equity Action Team (LHEAT), led by Aura Brillhart. The project brings together students, schools, and community partners to ensure that no one in Bourbon County goes hungry this holiday season.

 

Community Collection Sites

 

Donation boxes are available at:

Union State Bank, Fort Scott Branch • City State Bank • Citizens Bank • Kansas Teachers Credit Union • CHCSEK • Fort Scott City Hall • Buck Run Community Center • Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center • Community Christian Church • United Methodist Church • Christian Heights

 

Participating businesses and organizations are asked to deliver their collection boxes to the Fort Scott Middle School front office on the morning of Monday, November 17th. If needed, donations can also be dropped off the morning of Tuesday, November 18th at the Fort Scott Middle School.

 

All food donations will be collected at Fort Scott Middle School. Members of the Fort Scott Middle School Student Council and the Kansas Association for Family and Community Education (FCE) will assist with sorting, checking expiration dates, and organizing the donations.

 

On November 19th and 20th, the FCE group will deliver the items from the middle school to food pantries and blessing boxes across Bourbon County — including The Beacon, Fort Scott High School and Middle School food closets, the Fort Scott Community College Food Pantry, Uniontown Schools, and community blessing boxes.

 

Middle School Contest

 

To inspire participation, Fort Scott Middle School will hold a friendly contest among classes to see which group can collect the most food donations. This initiative teaches students the value of service, teamwork, and giving back to their community.

 

Suggested Donation Items

 

Dry beans (2 lb Pinto, Navy, or Great Northern), soup, tuna, ramen noodles, granola bars, instant potatoes, pasta and sauce, pancake mix and syrup, canned fruits and vegetables, mac & cheese, peanut butter and jelly, Spaghetti O’s, chili with beans, cereal, pasta noodles, hygiene products, and cash or check donations.

 

All donations will be distributed to local food pantries and blessing boxes throughout Bourbon County to support families during the holiday season.

 

About Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT)

 

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team is a Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways to a Healthy Kansas Community, dedicated to improving health, economic vitality, and overall quality of life across the region. Through partnerships, education, and local action, HBCAT continues to connect resources and mobilize efforts that create a healthier, more equitable community for all.

 

Together, we can make sure every family in Bourbon County has access to the food and care they deserve.

 

Contact:

Aura Brillhart – Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT)

[email protected]

| 620-224-2563 ext. 5

 

Lori Nelsen – Fort Scott Middle School

[email protected]

 

Jody Love – Healthy Bourbon County Action Team

[email protected]

Unofficial Results of the Bourbon County Election on November 4 And Statement From County Clerk

A sign in front of the Bourbon County Courthouse in Nov. 2021.

Official Statement from the Bourbon County Election Office – November 5, 2025

2025 City/School General Election

The following was taken from the Bourbon County website, this morning.

“Although the release of election results was not as immediate as in previous years, I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to Amber Page, Deputy Election Clerk, for her tireless commitment to accuracy and integrity of our election process. We worked diligently to ensure that all ballots were counted, and all audits completed prior to the publication of the unofficial results.

This election cycle included an unusually high number of write-in votes. Each write-in ballot was meticulously hand-counted and verified within our election software to uphold the highest standards of election accuracy.

The Bourbon County Election Office remains committed to maintaining transparent communication with our residents regarding election procedures and the importance of ensuring reliable and verifiable outcomes. Please note that advance ballots postmarked by Election Day, November 4, 2025, will be accepted through November 7, 2025. The official canvassing of votes is scheduled for Monday, November 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at 210 S. National Avenue.

I would also like to extend endless appreciation to Jennifer Hawkins, previous County Clerk and Current County Treasurer for continually guiding Amber and I through our first election. Furthermore, I wish to express my deep appreciation to the citizens of Bourbon County for their patience and understanding, as well as to the many volunteers who serve selflessly during each election cycle.

About the Bourbon County Election Office
The Bourbon County Election Office is committed to upholding public trust through integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement in all election processes.

Susan E. Walker

Bourbon County Clerk & Chief Election Officer”

To view original document submitted by Walker at 5:19 a.m. this morning:

Unofficial General Election Results

or view here:

Contest Choice Votes
Bronson City Council (Vote for 2)
Kelly Perry 30
Sherri Tibble 13
Lysa Long 8
Linda Sprague 2
[Write-in] Britney Minor 11
[Write-in] Brittany Minor 1
[Write-in] Doug Tribble 1
[Write-in] Mike Stewart 1
Bronson Mayor (Vote for 1)
Josh Marlow 36
[Write-in] Bill Marlow 1
County Commissioner District 4 (Vote for 1)
Gregg Motley 450
[Write-in] Invalid 15
County Commissioner District 5 (Vote for 1)
Mika Milburn-Kee 264
[Write-in] Joe Smith 87
[Write-in] Invalid 8
Fort Scott City Commission (Vote for 3)
Tim Van Hoecke 552
Julie Buchta 473
Kathryn Salsbury 438
Dyllon Olson 409
Garrett Knight 335
[Write-in] Invalid 83
Fort Scott Question Submitted (Vote for 1)
Yes 604
No 457
FSCC Board of Trustees (Vote for 3)
Destry Brown 1,404
Chad Cosens 1,404
Marilyn J. Hoyt, DVM, PHD 844
Vince Loffredo 705
Joshua Baseley 390
[Write-in] Aaron Judy 2
[Write-in] Chad McKinnes 2
[Write-in] Abel Davis 1
[Write-in] Adam Clements 1
[Write-in] Anna Graham 1
[Write-in] Bailey Lyons 1
[Write-in] Barry McCockiner 1
[Write-in] Blank 1
[Write-in] Bugs Bunny 1
[Write-in] Chad Holt 1
[Write-in] Debbie Buckley 1
[Write-in] Dillon Duffy 1
[Write-in] Doug Hurd 1
[Write-in] Doug Ropp 1
[Write-in] Emily Diebolt 1
[Write-in] Fred Larson 1
[Write-in] Gary Floyd 1
[Write-in] Igao Guffin 1
[Write-in] Jacky Martin 1
[Write-in] Joe Smith 1
[Write-in] John Bartelsmeyer 1
[Write-in] John Townsend 1
[Write-in] Larry Shead 1
[Write-in] Michael Hoyt 1
[Write-in] Nick Barrows 1
[Write-in] Rhet Reed 1
[Write-in] Shane Walker 1
[Write-in] Smith 1
[Write-in] Sonia Gugnani 1
[Write-in] These are all corrupt 1
[Write-in] Tom Gorman 1
[Write-in] Vance Eden 1
[Write-in] William R. Dean 1
Fulton City Council (Vote for 5)
Janet Schill 30
Caleb Jackson 28
Ronald Marsh 27
Lawrence Paddock 26
[Write-in] Misty Adams 7
[Write-in] Steve Doucet 7
[Write-in] Carmen 1
[Write-in] Dakota Hall 1
[Write-in] Jessica Walters 1
[Write-in] John M Marsh 1
[Write-in] John Smith 1
[Write-in] Randy Beckford 1
Fulton Mayor (Vote for 1)
Jessica Walters 16
Kathy Hurteau 11
[Write-in] Misty Adams 7
Mapleton City Council (Vote for 2)
Homer Wisdom 18
[Write-in] Clifford Squier 3
[Write-in] Clifford Squire 2
[Write-in] Alice Myric 1
[Write-in] Clifford Squeeir 1
[Write-in] Clifford Squier (additional listing) 1
[Write-in] Clifford W. 1
Mapleton Mayor (Vote for 1)
Mike Hueston 11
Ronald “Buck” Burton 10
Redfield City Council (Vote for 2)
Kirby Martin 17
Jon Brown 13
Michael Beerbower 9
[Write-in] Jeff Reed 4
Redfield Mayor (Vote for 1)
Clarence Ed Guss 16
[Write-in] Jeff Reed 6
[Write-in] David Duffey 2
Southwind Extension District (Vote for 2)
Gary Palmer 1,481
Dennis Fry 973
Elli Milburn 576
[Write-in] Joe Smith 5
[Write-in] Beth Graham 1
[Write-in] Better off with no one 1
[Write-in] Bugs Bunny 1
[Write-in] Curtis E. O’Dell 1
[Write-in] Dean West 1
[Write-in] Debbie Buckley 1
[Write-in] Emily Diebolt 1
[Write-in] Fred Larson 1
[Write-in] Blank 1
[Write-in] Jacky Martin 1
[Write-in] Jamie Holeman 1
[Write-in] Jared Pollock 1
[Write-in] Jason Gorman 1
[Write-in] Martin Ashwell 1
[Write-in] Mert Barrows 1
[Write-in] Michael Donahue III 1
[Write-in] Michael Houston 1
[Write-in] Sam Tran 1
[Write-in] Smith 1
[Write-in] Wes Warren 1
Uniontown City Council (Vote for 2)
Kyle Knight 44
[Write-in] Stewart Troutman 3
[Write-in] Tyler Walker 3
[Write-in] Josh Hartman 2
[Write-in] Mary Pillion 2
[Write-in] Shelby Miller 2
[Write-in] Amber Kelly 1
[Write-in] Christal Martin 1
[Write-in] Cindy Mumbower 1
[Write-in] Dana Esslinger 1
[Write-in] Jess Ervin 1
[Write-in] Jesse Ervin 1
[Write-in] Judy Jurgensen 1
[Write-in] Mark Hartman 1
[Write-in] Nicholas Graham 1
[Write-in] Sally Johnson 1
[Write-in] Savannah Pritchett 1
Uniontown Mayor (Vote for 1)
[Write-in] Kyle Knight 5
[Write-in] Larry Jurgensen 5
[Write-in] Brad Stewart 3
[Write-in] Bradley Stewart 3
[Write-in] Jess Ervin 3
[Write-in] Richard Allen 3
[Write-in] Larry Jergensen 2
[Write-in] Doug Workman 1
[Write-in] Douglas Workman 1
[Write-in] Joe Warren 1
[Write-in] Josh Hartman 1
[Write-in] Larry Jergoson 1
[Write-in] Sally Johnson 1
USD 234 Board Member At-Large (Vote for 5)
Nick Barrows 1,153
David J. Stewart 1,091
Mike Miles 853
Rory Chaplin 851
Phil Jackson 797
Robert Harrington 422
[Write-in] Aaron Judy 2
[Write-in] Danny Brown 2
[Write-in] Doug Hurd 2
[Write-in] Alissa Ramsey 1
[Write-in] Alyssa Glades 1
[Write-in] Amy Boyd 1
[Write-in] Angie Dela Torre 1
[Write-in] Anyone besides Miles 1
[Write-in] Bo Graham 1
[Write-in] Bob McElwee 1
[Write-in] Brian Wade 1
[Write-in] Bugs Bunny 1
[Write-in] Carol McAurther 1
[Write-in] Cathy Bishop 1
[Write-in] Chastity Pickert 1
[Write-in] Cody J. Dean 1
[Write-in] Curtis E. O’Dell 1
[Write-in] Dallas Smith 1
[Write-in] Dan RenFrow 1
[Write-in] David Bruner 1
[Write-in] Debbie Buckley 1
[Write-in] Emily Deibolt 1
[Write-in] Fire them all 1
[Write-in] Frank Miller 1
[Write-in] Gary Cook 1
[Write-in] Harold Martin 1
[Write-in] Jacky Martin 1
[Write-in] Jacob Dela Torre 1
[Write-in] Jeff Armstrong 1
[Write-in] Jeff Dela Torre 1
[Write-in] Jim Barrows 1
[Write-in] John Hill III 1
[Write-in] John Horn 1
[Write-in] Johnathon Ramsey 1
[Write-in] Jonathan Vann 1
[Write-in] Judy Earp 1
[Write-in] Kevin Allen 1
[Write-in] Kevin Davidson 1
[Write-in] Lewis Dunkeson 1
[Write-in] Lisa Shank 1
[Write-in] Lynette Jackson 1
[Write-in] Martin Ashwill 1
[Write-in] Matt Harris 1
[Write-in] Not Mike Miles 1
[Write-in] Not Robert Harrington 1
[Write-in] P.K. Gugnani 1
[Write-in] Pat Harry 1
[Write-in] Ryan Bolten 1
[Write-in] Ryan Keating 1
[Write-in] Shane Walker 1
[Write-in] Smith 1
[Write-in] Stuart Troutman 1
[Write-in] Superman 1
[Write-in] Ted Bundy 1
[Write-in] Tim McKenney 1
[Write-in] Troy Mccloen 1
[Write-in] William K. Martin 1
[Write-in] William R. Dean 1
USD 235 Position 4 (Vote for 1)
Brian Ray Stewart 267
[Write-in] Jeff Reed 8
[Write-in] Wes Warren 8
[Write-in] Brock Shelton 3
[Write-in] Clint Johnson 2
[Write-in] Doug Coyan 2
[Write-in] Chad McKinnis 1
[Write-in] Dale Griffiths 1
[Write-in] Blank 1
[Write-in] Johnny K. Speer Sr 1
[Write-in] Megan Stewart 1
[Write-in] Mickey Mouse 1
[Write-in] Pamela K. Speer 1
[Write-in] Pamela Speer 1
[Write-in] Schotze Griffiths 1
[Write-in] Terry Nading 1
[Write-in] Tony Bradbury 1
[Write-in] Wess Warren 1
USD 235 Position 5 (Vote for 1)
Mike Mason 184
Edward Ramsey 51
[Write-in] Wes Warren 91
[Write-in] Wess Warren 2
[Write-in] Anyone but Mike 1
[Write-in] Brent Smith 1
[Write-in] Bugs George 1
[Write-in] Blank 1
[Write-in] Jamie Holeman 1
[Write-in] West Warren 1
USD 235 Position 6 (Vote for 1)
Kolby Stock 200
Kyle Knight 77
Brent M. Smith 58
[Write-in] Wes Warren 6
USD 248 Position 6 (Vote for 1)
Kelly Peak 0
USD 346 Position 6 (Vote for 1)
Ketturah “Kitty” Rhynerson 14

County Commissioners Discuss Noise Ordinance in Work Session

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

The Bourbon County Commission discussed the proposed noise ordinance in a work session on Nov. 3. They held a work session rather than a regular meeting because the clerk’s office was unavailable to record the meeting due to elections.

Commissioner Samuel Tran gave an update on the bitcoin mining noise issue that the commission has been discussing for several weeks. He was at a meeting with the owners of the generator and legal counsel on the property where the generator is housed. Some citizens were nearby, but not allowed on the property.

He said the decibel reading was 58 dB at the gate, which is lower than earlier reported readings. “It was noticeably quieter,” Tran said, than on his previous visits. He asked if the generator was operating at a full load. He was told it was.

Commissioner David Beerbower said that the sheriff’s department reported to him that during subsequent checks after the meeting, the volume “went back up.”

Tran said he spoke to the county’s legal counsel about the noise resolution at some length. He has no issues with creating a resolution, but questions whether or not it’s enforceable. It should be enforced by a planning committee. He expressed concern that the commission is at risk of passing a watered-down resolution that may come across as  way too broad and capricious in its fines or penalties.

Beerbower said he was continuing to work on the resolution, but sees the planning commission getting involved to repeal or amend it as needed. He said a noise resolution is needed now, and the planning commission has a lot on its plate at this time.

Bo Co Agenda for Nov. 3, 2025 Meeting

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

Page 1: Meeting Agenda Outline (Monday, November 03, 2025, 5:30 PM)

11.03.25 Agenda

I. Call Meeting to Order

II. Roll Call

III. Pledge of Allegiance

    • Prayer
    • IV. Approval of Agenda
    • V. Approval of Minutes & Consent Agenda
      • Approval of Minutes (unofficial until approved): 09.22.25, 09.23.25, 09.26.25, 09.29.25, 10.06.25, 10.14.25, 10.20.25, 10.22.25, 10.27.25
      • James Crux, County Attorney – Budget Discussion
      • Consent Agenda:
        • Approval of 10.31.25 Accounts Payable: $161,816.71
        • Approval of 10.31.25 Payroll: $243,122.51
        • VI. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
  • VII. Old Business
    • 2026 Benefits
    • AP & Payroll approvals
    • Sanitation Discussion
    • Elevator Discussion
    • Stop Sign removal north & southbound 205th & Overbrook
    • 108 W 2nd Transition
    • Emerson Payroll
    • Bitcoin
    • SOP Culvert
  • VIII. New Business
    • HR Assistant
    • Baker Tilly
    • Schwab-Eaton Engineering Services Agreement
  • IX. Department Updates
  • X. Build Agenda for following meeting
  • XI. Commission Comments
  • XII. Adjournment

Detailed Information Packet Summary

Future Items and Executive Sessions (Page 2)

  • Executive Sessions: The packet includes the official form outlining the statutory reasons for an Executive Session (KSA 75-4319), which can be used to discuss personnel matters, consult with an attorney, discuss negotiations, financial data/trade secrets, real estate acquisition, or security measures.
  • Scheduled Future Agenda Items:
    • 11/10/25: Noise Resolution, Longevity
    • 11/17/25: Credit Card Policy
    • 11/24/25: 190th Street Benefit District
  • Tabled/Future Items: Economic Development, Juvenile Detention Contract (Spring 2026), Benefits Committee Letters, Elm Creek Quarry, and Phone System.

Minutes from October 27, 2025 Meeting (Pages 3-6)

  • Key Topics: Discussions centered on the Noise Resolution and its enforcement challenges, the ongoing payroll transition with Emerson & Company/Payentry, exploring a vehicle leasing program for the Sheriff’s Office, a Culvert Installation SOP, and county employee insurance plan changes/cost increases. (Page 3)
  • Noise Resolution: The county will convene the Planning Commission to begin developing a zoning plan, which is anticipated to provide a framework for addressing issues like the Noise Resolution. (Page 4)
  • Employee Insurance/Benefits: The Commission will work with the insurance provider to develop a revised plan that maintains the current employer contribution levels. (Page 4) Longevity pay is being reconsidered and requires a clear policy. (Page 3)
  • Technology/Network (Stronghold Update): The IT project is reported as 26% complete after 45 days. Major issues remain network-related. Stronghold requested formal policies for access permissions, authority to request changes, and documentation for IT oversight (e.g., for employee onboarding/promotions). (Page 4)
  • Actions Taken:
    • The motion to direct the County Clerk to provide information to Payentry by 11/3/25 was approved. (Page 5)
    • The Commission voted to move forward with Stronghold’s hardware project. (Page 5)
    • The request for the Hammond Community Center to dump roof replacement debris at the Landfill for free was approved. (Page 5)
    • The Consent Agenda for the 10/24/25 Accounts Payable, September 2025 financials, and 3rd Quarter financial publication passed on a 3-1 vote. (Page 5)

Accounts Payable Summary (Pages 7-22)

The remainder of the information packet consists of the detailed Open Invoices By Department Summary for the Accounts Payable totaling $161,816.71, which is set for approval on the agenda.

  • General Fund (Fund 001): Totals $42,283.00, with over $12,000 in invoices primarily related to payroll clearing for IRS, KPERS, and State Withholding. (Page 7)
  • Employee Benefit Fund (Fund 064): Totals $36,855.11, with numerous payroll-related clearing accounts and a monthly fee for Health Equity. (Page 8-11)
  • County Sheriff/Correctional Fund (Fund 120): Totals $64,021.02. (Page 22)
  • Road and Bridge Fund (Fund 220): Invoices include a total of $5,163.80 for 12″, 15″, and 18″ Culvert Tubes from Bo’s 1 Stop Inc. (Page 18)
  • Road & Bridge Sales Tax Fund (Fund 222): Totals $1,494.54, with expenditures including nuts/bolts/nails and a diesel washdown pump. (Page 21)

Resources For The Nov. 4 Election

A sign in front of the Bourbon County Courthouse in Nov. 2021.

 

The General Election in Bourbon County is next Tuesday, November 4.

With all the division in the country and our county, voting is a citizen’s chance to make a difference in election outcomes.

There are new districts and polling stations in the county.

“All voters were sent new registration cards in late July showing their polling place based on the new precincts,” Bourbon County Clerk Susan Walker said. “In addition, I put a notice out that the Bronson and Redfield locations were shut down to try to save costs in running the elections. Maps of the districts can be found at https://www.bourboncountyks.org/bourbon-county-election-maps-5-districts/.

Here is a screenshot of most of the map:

Bourbon County’s new voting districts, 2025, submitted by the county clerk.

If there are any questions about the polling process, call the clerk’s office at 620. 223. 3800 Ext. 100.

There will also be a 1/2 cent sales tax vote on the ballot. To see how it is worded, see below.

Brad Matkin, Fort Scott City Manager, said at the candidate forum, the sales tax will make the existing sales tax continue for infrastructure improvements. This tax includes tourists and visitors to the community, not just property owners. If any questions, contact Matkin at City Hall, 620.223.0550.

SALES TAX QUESTION
Shall the following be adopted?
Shall the City of Fort Scott, Kansas be authorized to impose a one-half percent (0.5%) City-wide retailers’ sales tax (the “Sales Tax”), the proceeds of which shall be used for the purpose of financing the following costs and related expenditures:
(a) 80% of the proceeds for street improvements, sidewalks, bike lanes, and curb and gutter, and (b) 10% of the proceeds for Parks and
community facilities, and (c) 10% of the proceeds for Public Safety With the collection of the Sales Tax to commence on 7/1/2026; and to expire Ten (10) years after its commencement; all pursuant to the provisions of K.S.A. 12-187 et seq.,as amended?,

To learn more about the candidates and see them answer questions, view the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Candidate forum on October 22, and streamed on YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVObkFWb_vE

Below is a list of candidates who will appear on the ballo provided by the Bourbon County Clerk Susan Walker.

CITY OF FORT SCOTT
CITY COMMISSIONER (3 POSITIONS)
Dyllon Olson, 124 N Washington St, Fort Scott 66701
Garrett Knight, 215 S Barbee St, Fort Scott 66701
Kathryn Salsbury, 802 S Crawford, Fort Scott 66701
Tim Van Hoecke, 802 S Hill St, Fort Scott 66701
Julie Buchta, 1002 Burke St, Fort Scott 66701

CITY OF BRONSON
MAYOR (1 POSITION)
Josh Marlow, 212 Clay, Bronson 66716
CITY COUNCIL (2 POSITIONS)
Kelly Perry, 611 Orange Street, Bronson 66716
Lysa Long, 203 Line Rd, Bronson 66716
Sherri Tribble, 406 Charles St, Bronson 66716
Linda Sprague, 502 Randolph, Bronson 66716

CITY OF FULTON
MAYOR (1 POSITION)
Kathy Hurteau, 402 West Osage Street, Fulton 66738
Jessica Walters, 328 W Osage St, Fulton 66738
CITY COUNCIL (5 POSITIONS)
Janet Schill, 524 W Cedar St, Fulton 66738
Ronald Marsh, 223 N 4 th St, Fulton 66738
Lawrence Paddock, 608 Cedar Street, Fulton 66738
Caleb Jackson, 602 W Spruce St, Fulton 66738

CITY OF MAPLETON
MAYOR (1 POSITION)
Ronald “Buck” Burton, 228 East 7 th St, Mapleton 66754
Mike Hueston, 351 Bourbon, Mapleton 66754
CITY COUNCIL (2 POSITIONS)
Homer Wisdom, 507 N Bourbon, Mapleton 66754

CITY OF REDFIELD
MAYOR (1 POSITION)
Clarence Ed Guss, 301 Pine, Redfield 66769
CITY COUNCIL (2 POSITIONS)
Kirby Martin, 403 W 2 nd , Redfield 66769
Michael Beerbower, 402 W 3 rd Street, Redfield 66769
Jon Brown, 102 N Pine Street, Redfield 66769

CITY OF UNIONTOWN
MAYOR (1 POSITION)
No Candidate
CITY COUNCIL (2 POSITIONS)
Kyle Knight, 606 Sherman, Uniontown 66779

USD 234
BOARD MEMBER AT-LARGE (5 POSITIONS)
David J. Stewart, 772 190 th, Fort Scott 66701
Phil Jackson, 25 Golfview Dr, Fort Scott 66701
Rory Chaplin, 1764 215 th Street, Fort Scott 66701
Nick Barrows, 1607 South Crawford St, Fort Scott 66701
Robert Harrington, 1403 Horton, Fort Scott 66701
Mike Miles, 836 S Judson, Fort Scott 66701

USD 235
POSITION 4 (1 POSITION)
Brian Ray Stewart, 179 Soldier Rd, Bronson 66716
POSITION 5 (1 POSITION)
Edward Ramsey, 411 Kansas Rd, Uniontown 66779
Mike Mason, 978 60 th St, Uniontown 66779

POSITION 6 (1 POSITION)
Kolby Stock, 938 80 th Rd, Uniontown 66779
Kyle Knight, 606 Sherman, Uniontown 66779
Brent M. Smith, 763 95 th St, Redfield 66769

USD 248
POSITION 6 (1 POSITION)
Kelly Peak, 60 West Lake Road, Farlington 66734

USD 346
POSITION 6 (1 POSITION)
Ketturah “Kitty” Rhynerson, 2303 Farris Rd, Blue Mound 66010

SOUTHWIND EXTENSION DISTRICT
BOARD MEMBER (2 POSITIONS)
Dennis Fry, 267 130 th Street, Fort Scott 66701
Elli Milburn, 2518 Xylem Road, Fulton 66738
Gary Palmer, 1863 Eagle Rd, Fort Scott 66701

FSCC BOARD OF TRUSTEE (3 POSITIONS)
Chad Cosens, 1320 Marblecrest Dr, Fort Scott 66701
Destry Brown, 2108 Jayhawk Road, Fort Scott 66701
Marilyn J. Hoyt, DVM, PHD, 2422 242 nd Terrace, Fulton 66738
Joshua Baseley, 407 Lees Circle Dr. Apt 2A, Fort Scott 66701
Vince Loffredo, 844 195 th St, Fort Scott 66701

BOURBON COUNTY
DISTRICT 4 COMMISSIONER (1 POSITION)
Gregg Motley, 1904 Jayhawk Road, Fort Scott 66701, Republican
DISTRICT 5 COMMISSIONER (1 POSITION)
Mika Milburn-Kee, 2518 Xylem Road, Fulton 66738, Republican

VOTING PRECINCTS IN BOURBON COUNTY – PLEASE NOTE THAT POLLING PLACES HAVE CHANGED!!
It is hereby noted that the polls are open between the hours of 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM at all the following locations:
1 st
,4 th
,5 th
,6 th Wards and Scott D1, D2, and D4 Townships– Community Christian Church, 1919 S. Horton, Fort Scott

Freedom D1, and D5, and Osage Townships, Fulton City – Fulton Community Building, 408 W. Osage, Fulton

2 nd
,3 rd ,7 th Wards and Drywood and Scott D3 and D5 Townships – Grace Baptist Church, 502 S. Margrave, Fort Scott

Franklin, Millcreek, Timberhill Townships and Mapleton City – Mapleton Community Building, 565 Eldora, Mapleton

East Marion, Marmaton D2 and D4, Pawnee, West Marion and Walnut Townships and Bronson, Redfield, and Uniontown Cities–
Uniontown City Hall, 206 Sherman St., Uniontown

VOTER REGISTRATION:
You may register to vote at any of the following locations during their regular business hours: the Office of the
County Clerk, or online www.bourboncountyks.org ; any City Clerk’s office; Department of Motor Vehicles; SRS
offices.

DEADLINE TO CHANGE PARTY: KSA 25-3304(b) The deadline for party affiliation changes was October 14, 2025 at the end of
the business day. Party affiliation changes will be accepted and processed after December 1, 2025. If you still desire to update or
change your party affiliation, you may do so after December 1, 2025 by filling out a new voter registration.

CLOSING OF REGISTRATION BOOKS: Pursuant to K.S.A. 25-2310 & K.A.R 7-23-4 Notice is hereby given that on the 14th day
of October 2025, registration books for the City/School General Election will close at the end of the business day. The books will
remain closed until the day following the General Election.

ADVANCE VOTING by MAIL: K.S.A. 25-1123 Any registered voter is eligible to vote by Advance Ballot, beginning Wednesday,
October 15, 2025. The last day to request an advanced ballot by mail application is Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

APPLY FOR ADVANCE BALLOT: K.S.A. 25-1122(e)(4). Applications for Advance Ballots are available at the Bourbon County
Clerk/Election Office or by calling (620) 223-3800 Ext. 100. A printable application for an Advance Ballot is available on the county
website www.bourboncountyks.org or Kansas Secretary of State website www.kssos.org.

RETURNING ADVANCE BALLOTS: KSA 25-1132 In Person: Ballots must be returned by 7:00 PM on Election Day to any
Polling Location within the County or to the County Election Office, Courthouse, 210 S. National Ave. Fort Scott, KS 66701. By Mail:
Ballot must be postmarked on or before Tuesday, November 4, 2025 (Election Day) and received in County Election Office by Friday,
November 7, 2025.

EARLY VOTING: Voters are able to vote in advance in the Commission Room at Bourbon County Courthouse began October 20 and will end Monday, November 3, 2025, at 12:00 PM. (Noon).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Per KSA 25-2908 All Voters must provide Valid Photo Identification (Drivers’ License, Military ID, Kansas
College ID, Kansas ID or other qualifying ID card) to Vote. For a list of accepted identification and additional information go to
www.gotvoterid.com or call 1.800.262.vote (8683).

PUBLIC DEMONSTRATION: K.S.A 25-4411(b) & 25-4610(b) A Public Demonstration of the Clear Ballot Election Software will
be held Friday October 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the Bourbon County Courthouse. The final testing of the Clear Ballot Election
Software will be held Friday November 7, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the Bourbon County Courthouse.

CANVASS: KSA 25-3101, 3104 & 3107 Monday, November 10, 2025 at 10:00AM in the Commission Room of the Bourbon County
Courthouse.

I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 5th day of June 2025.
/s/Susan Walker, Bourbon Clerk/Election Officer

FSACF Grants $59,000 to Fort Scott and Bourbon County Nonprofits

 

Over 20 Southeast Kansas  nonprofits and 26 projects will be receiving grant funding thanks to the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation’s (FSACF) 2025 granting cycle. $59,378 will be granted to organizations and projects serving Fort Scott and Bourbon County.

FSACF has provided over $500,000 in competitive grants to Fort Scott and Bourbon County nonprofits since its inception in 2007. These grants are awarded through the annual open application process. Total grants, including the competitive grants, as well as the directed grants provided through the foundation’s donor-advised, designated, and field-of-interest funds have totaled more than $3.8 million.

“It’s incredible inspiring to see the number of deserving organizations doing impactful work across our community,” said Becky Tourtillott, FSACF Board Chairperson. “Awarding these grants is one of the most meaningful ways we support that work, and none of it would be possible without the generosity of our donors. Their continued support allows us to fund projects that create lasting, positive change in the lives of those we serve.”

The following organizations and projects were selected as recipients of the 2025 FSACF grant cycle:

  • Bourbon County Core Community- Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World
  • City of Bronson- Dawson Field Upgrades
  • City of Fort Scott- Kiwanis Tree Project
  • Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas- Prescription Assistance Liaison (PALs) Program/ Bourbon County
  • Cornerstones of Care- Bright Futures: Sponsor a Youth Holiday Program
  • E3 Ranch Foundation Inc.- The LaRoche Baseball Complex Playground Initiative
  • Fairview Cemetery- Restoration of Fairview Cemetery
  • First United Methodist Church Fort Scott- Feeding Families in His Name
  • Fort Scott Community College- Senior-Versity Fort Scott Community College Foundation
  • Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries- Preserve
  • Fostering Connections- Thriving Beyond Foster Care
  • Good Neighbor Action Team- GNAT’s Variable Mission
  • KVC Kansas- Christmas for Youth in Foster Care 2025
  • Ozark Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America- Empowering Youth Through Scouting
  • Parsons Senior High School Honor Flight- Fort Scott High School Flight of Honor
  • Path of EASE Association- The Redemption House
  • Southwind Extension Education Foundation Inc.- A Heartbeat Away: Expanding AED Access
  • Special Olympics Kansas- Bourbon County Unified Schools
  • The Beacon Inc.- Maintaining Food Assistance
  • Tri-Valley Developmental Services, Inc.- AED Trainers: Training to Save Lives
  • USD 243 Fort Scott- Community-Based Interactive Instruction
  • USD 234 Fort Scott- FSMS Sky Dome: A Portable Planetarium for Scientific Discovery
  • USD 234 Fort Scott- Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports
  • USD 243 Fort Scott- Sunshine Cart, Fort Scott High School
  • USD 234 Fort Scott- Sunshine Cart, Fort Scott Preschool Center
  • USD 234 Fort Scott- Sunshine Cart, Winfield Scott Elementary

The First Christian Church of Fort Scott Endowment Fund helped support the Bourbon County Core Community, Cornerstones of Care, and the Special Olympics Kansas projects.

The Shepherd Family Endowment Fund helped support the City of Bronson and Ozark Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America projects.

The John Valentine and Patricia Jean Neff Health Care Fund contributed to CHC-SEK, First United Methodist Church, Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries, Good Neighbor Action Team, Path of EASE Association, Southwind Extension Education Foundation Inc., The Beacon Inc., and Tri-Valley Developmental Services, Inc. Projects.

FSACF would like to congratulate all this year’s recipients and thank them for the work they do in Bourbon County every day!

 

Bo Co Coalition Agenda for November 5

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Agenda

 

November 5, 2025 1:00 PM

Scottview Conference Room

315 S. Scott Ave

 

 

  1.  Welcome: 

 

 

  1.  Member Introductions and Announcements:

 

 

  1.  Program:  Bryan Cook, Director of Crisis Services, SEK Mental Health Center

 

 

  1.  Open Forum:

 

 

  1.  Adjournment:  The next General Membership meeting will be December 3, 2025.