Category Archives: Bourbon County

Bourbon County, Government

Winter Storm and Wind Chill Watches In Effect

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Winter Storm and Wind Chill Watches In Effect —

Confidence remains high that dangerous wind chills and winter precipitation will arrive Thursday, according the NOAA.GOV. Wind chills of -20 to -30 F and accumulating snowfall will create dangerous conditions for those outdoors.

NOAA latest information here:
www.weather.gov/sgf/dsspacket

“This is going to be a very cold deep freezing winter weather situation,” William Wallis, Bourbon County Emergency Management, said. “If you must travel please make sure you have a winter care survival kit plus extra blankets and several cell phones if you breakdown and get stranded.”

 

 

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Bourbon County, Government, Housing

Upgraded Bathrooms in the Future For Cottonwood Estates, Uniontown

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Cottonwood Estates in the 200 block of Fifth Street in Uniontown.

Uniontown’s Rural Renting Housing, Inc. has received a $40,000 grant to update bathrooms for the residents of Cottonwood Estates, located in the 200 block of Fifth Street.

The funds will be used to continue phase two of the rehabilitation process of the 12-unit housing complex.

“The first round of grant money we received was $25k,”  Jennie McKee, site manager, said. “The funds received were to make ADA accessibility improvements to the bathrooms. This would include the zero threshold showers, adding grab bars, ADA height toilets, etc.. It was originally estimated that we could get 6 bathrooms completed for that amount but with the increase in materials we hope to get 5 bathrooms completed for the $25k. With the additional $40k in grant money we will be able to complete the remaining 7 bathrooms.”

 

“These walk-in showers will be very helpful for many of the tenants,” said McKee.

This is a zero threshold shower that is being completed in Cottonwood Estates.

Tenants must be 62 years old or receiving disability, SSI, from the government. Currently there is a waiting list for the units.

“We began the process one and a half years ago with a $25,000 grant through USDA,” she said. “We were hoping that would do the cost of the walk-in showers, but it didn’t. SEKRPC applied for a second round of grants.”

“The first round was tiled with zero threshold, the rest will be pre-made,” she said.

SEKRPC helps individuals, companies, and government agencies with finance packaging, advice, and procedures, according to its website. It’s resources are available for community improvement, economic development, and other urgent needs.

Three shower updates that were started with the first round of grants are nearing completion. They were empty units, waiting for new tenants

“They should be done before the end of the year,” McKee said.

“It took a long time for Rural Development to distribute the funds,” McKee said. “Contractor issues led to the project starting in September 2022.”

SG2, Uniontown, was the contractor following the bidding process.

When work begins in the second round of the shower project, the tenant will be displaced for about five days per apartment while the bathroom is remodeled.

A hospitality room in a nearby church will be utilized for that tenant while the remodel is underway.

Funds won’t be available until late winter or early spring 2023, she said.

“Rehabs of older properties are not usually given grants,” McKee said. “It’s usually new builds.”

This grant required no match from the grantee.

The Uniontown Rural Rental Inc. board is comprised of Ron Eldridge-president, Larry Jurgensen-vice president, Lucille Ward-secretary and treasurer and other members: Matt Noll, Dan Ramsey, Susan Karleskint and Brenda Gleason.

In normal years, the board meets twice yearly and more if needed.

McKee can be contacted at 620.756.1000.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Minutes of Dec. 13

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Unapproved minutes

The Regular Council Meeting on December 13, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00PM by President of Council Ervin.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Joshua Bales and Jason Thompson-Green Environmental Services, Linda and Danny Nation-4 States Sanitation, Raymond “Skeet” George, Joe George, Mary Pemberton, City Attorney Jacob Manbeck, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Public Hearing for city trash service – Attorney Manbeck opened the hearing.  There was discussion with the vendor representatives about services they can offer and current private residential rates.  There were no comments from the citizens in attendance.  Over the next three months the City will finalize the planning of the proposed trash service.

 

Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Mr George requested a recess for the Council to walk to the restroom to view progress.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to recess for 5 minutes to view the progress

 

Open meeting resumed at 7:26PM.

 

Mr George would like to have guttering put on the building, LACO will donate if there is a sign acknowledging the donation.  A list of entities/individuals that donated time and service to the construction will be given to Clerk Johnson to send thank you notes.  Clerk Johnson will research a sign for the building that acknowledges the building provided by Uniontown Ruritan and those who donated time/service to the project.  Total cost of the facility is upwards of $50,000.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to allow signs acknowledging those responsible for the construction of the restroom building

 

Councilman Ervin asked to have the custodial job description amended to include the cleaning of the new restroom facilities.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1) in order to discuss performance on non-elected personnel, open meeting to resume at 7:30PM

 

Open meeting resumed at 7:30PM.  Council presented bonuses to staff.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the November 2022 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $363,706.17, Receipts $37,281.81, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $33,573.47, Checking Account Closing Balance $354,638.51. Bank Statement Balance $356,257.28, including Checking Account Interest of $49.96, Outstanding Deposits $216.27, Outstanding Checks $1,835.04, Reconciled Balance $354,638.51.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,159.60, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,668.01, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,436.60, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $431,902.72. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $361.40, and Utility CDs $362.78 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $724.18.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of November 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  November Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00 and to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00 and to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500.00, Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of November $9,067.66, Year-to-Date Net Income $30,895.01.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $108,458.97 (102.9%), Expenditures $100,869.46 (77.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $32,090.30 (89.9%), Expenditures $32,458.78 (79.1%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $113,457.96 (81.3%), Expenditures $144,157.30 (58.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $140,825.06 (109.6%), Expenditures $133,508.49 (80.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $7,661.33 (111.8%), Expenditures $10,620.81 (99.9%).  The December 2022 estimated payables, including end of year transfers, in the amount of $51,747.08 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

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

  • Minutes of November 7, 2022, Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported the KDHE inspected the wastewater and water systems.

Black Hills was here last week for leak survey, no leaks found.

He spoke to someone about the tree limbs overhanging on Second Street between Hill and Clay Streets.  They were supposed to trim but haven’t.  He will talk to them again.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported Smith Estate demolition is about 80% complete.

There was a complaint about the possibility of someone living in a RV at 401 Sherman.  A letter was sent and owner responded that no one is living in it, he is working on it at night.  He will remove from the property in the near future.  Clerk Johnson also reported on a noise complaint.  She spoke with the person being complained about and has since been informed that the issue has been resolved.

 

Clerk Johnson and Councilman Ervin reported on the KMGA Prepay Gas Supply Project.  After discussion, Council asked to have KMGA representative give a presentation with more details about the project.  Clerk Johnson will contact them to set up a meeting.  The December KMGA member update was discussed.

She reminded Council of upcoming League of Kansas Municipalities events and trainings.

Kansas Municipal Utilities has scheduled a Special Meeting of the KMU Membership to consider amendments to the bylaws to change status from 501(c)4, for profit, to 501(c)3, non-profit.  A voting delegate had not been named since 2014.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to designate Amber Kelly as KMU voting delegate

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to designate Larry Jurgensen as KMU alternate delegate

 

This is the last year she and her husband will be decorating the park.  She asked that the holiday decorations not be stored in the shop attic area any longer.  It is too difficult to put them up and take them down from there.  It was agreed they could be stored in the warehouse. It was suggested to put on the October 2023 agenda to solicit volunteers or set a workday to put the decorations out.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – thanked Frankie & Sally Johnson for their years of volunteering to decorate the park for Christmas.

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – absent

 

OLD BUSINESS

Due to Mayor Jurgensen not in attendance,

 

Motion by Hartman, Second be Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to table discussion on the School Pond Project and Placemaking Project until January 2023 meeting.

 

American Rescue Plan Act update – three sealed bids for remodel of existing City Hall restrooms into one ADA compliant unisex restroom.  Bid 1 – Terry Nading, $26,130.56; Bid 2 – French’s Plumbing, $26,575.00; Bid 3 – Karlskint & Marsh Const, $27,630.00.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to award to Terry Nading in the amount of $26,130.56

 

Clerk Johnson will call Nading in the morning to inform of the award.  She will mail a formal notice of award and set up contract signing and notice to proceed before the first of the year.

 

NEW BUSINESS

CMB License Renewal for 2023 – Union Station

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to approve 2023 CMB License for Union Station

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(4), in order to discuss confidential financial information and include Sally Johnson, the open meeting to resume at 8:55PM

 

Open meeting resumed at 8:55PM with no action from session.

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 8:57PM

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda for Bourbon County Commission Dec. 20 Amended

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Date: December 20, 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 6:00PM.
BUDGET AMENDMENT HEARING BEGINNING AT 6:00PM.
• Flag Salute
• Renewal of Cereal Malt Beverage Permit – Hidden Valley, 93 Hackberry Rd
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, Government

Amended Agenda Bourbon County Commission Meets at 6 p.m. on Dec. 20

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Date: December 20, 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 6:00PM.
BUDGET AMENDMENT HEARING BEGINNING AT 6:00PM WITH COMMISSION MEETING TO
FOLLOW
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Approval of Accounts Payable
• Ashley Shelton – KAC Renewal
• Ashley Shelton – Renewal of Cereal Malt Beverage Permit – Hidden Valley, 93 Hackberry Rd
• Lora Holdridge – PT Employee to FT Request
• Tiana McElroy – Report from Investigation
• Tiana McElroy – Response Letter
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer
o Bank Bids
o Handbook – Section 2
o Broker Selection
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
o Executive Session (3 sessions) KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of
individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• 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.

Attachments:

DBB Letter

Handbook Section 2

Assured Partners Timeline

Tiana McElroy – Agenda Request Form

Lora Holdridge – Agenda Request Form

Bourbon County, Business

Sixty-four Years as Partners in Life, Business and Ministry

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Helen and Chub Bolling. Submitted photo.

Sixty-four years as husband and wife. And 64 years as business and ministry partners, that’s Helen and Raymond (Chub) Bolling’s story.

Last week they celebrated their anniversary.

Chub and Helen met in high school at Bronson, KS and were attracted to each other at age 15 and 17.

Chub said he felt the Lord pointed her out to him.

They married December 14, 1958,and “she’s been taking care of me since,” Chub said.

Chub and Helen Bolling on their wedding day, December 14, 1958. Submitted photo.

They purchased the Bronson Locker in 1966.

“My husband’s father had a slaughter house,” Helen said. “We bought the town’s (meat)locker from Oscar Burris.”

In their business journey they sold the locker and were completely out of the business for 10 years, Helen said, then bought it back.

Helen and Chub Bolling stand in front of some meat in their business, the Bronson Locker. Submitted photo.

For 40 years of marriage they worked at both the locker and as pastors at Fulton United Methodist Church and Elsmore United Methodist, then 26 years at Paint Creek Church of the Brethren, south of Uniontown. Today their grandson, Seth Bolling, pastors that church.

Together they raised three children, Amber Ericson,  Micheal and Mitchel Bolling; and now have six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

What advice does this seasoned couple give couples starting out in marriage?

“I know one thing, you have a lot of ups and downs and you just have to work through them,” Helen said. “Remember your wedding vows and stay with them.”

Couples must be mindful of the words they say to each other, Chub said.

“When tough times come, you’ve got to see them through.” he said. “Plan on that. That’s our marriage.”

They have a little farm with livestock that Chub takes care of everyday, but he and Helen help out at the locker to “keep things moving” in the busy times, he said.

The Bronson Locker. Submitted photo.

The Bronson Locker has several family members working together.

From left: Tom Bradbury, who worked at the locker for over 30 years but is not family, then Chub Bolling, Tyler Ericson (Ethan’s wife), Helen Bolling, then Amber Ericson with Ethan’s two children, Julian and Jamison, Mike Bolling, Ethan Ericson, Garrett and Mandie Ericson.

Their grandson, Garrett Ericson and wife, Mandie, are going to purchase the locker when Helen and Chub decide to fully retire, possibly in a year, Helen said. Garrett and Mandie manage the business now.

The business has expanded from 4 to 14 employees through the years, and many of them are family members.

Beside Garrett and Mandie, Amber and her other son, Ethan, and his wife, Tyler, work there. Micheal Bolling is the butcher. Then there is nephew Jim Kuns and  Randall, Robert and Jessie Kuns and Mandie’s mom, Mary Ridge who all work there.

Son, Mitch and family have businesses in Allen county.

Mitch and Sharon Bolling  own the Bollings Meat Market with co-owner Cara Thomas.
Mitch owns the Moran Locker.
Mitch, Seth and Austin Bolling manage the Moran Locker.

 

In addition, Amber and some of the women of the family opened a furniture/antique store just down the street in downtown Bronson, called THRAMS.

THRAMS Antiques, 504 Clay Street, Bronson. March 2022.

THRAMS Antiques, A Picker Family

“Bourbon County has been very good to us,” Chub said.

 

 

Bourbon County

Starlite FCE Minutes December 16,2022

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The December meeting of the Starlite FCE was held at the Yeager building at the Bourbon County Fair ground.  President Glenda Miller called the meeting to order.  Vice President Joyce Allen led the members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.  Twelve members were in attendance.  They reported that they had volunteered for sixty-eight hours and had recycled twenty pounds.

 

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved, Doris Ericson gave the treasurer’s report and Karen Peery reported that the Bourbon County Council had met and discussed the Fall Meeting for next year, Bourbon County will be hosting it in Bronson.  It was also reported that the Spring Area meeting will be held in Humboldt next year.

 

New Business consisted of Glenda updating the club on the FCE newsletter articles and Wreaths across America.  Claudia Wheeler informed the club that Wreaths across America may offer a two for one offer early in the year and suggested that we approve to take advantage of the offer if they have it again next year.  Claudia Wheeler moved that we preapprove money to purchase two wreaths for the price of one, Betty Johnson seconded the motion, motion approved.  Claudia also passed around the address for Walter Reid Army Medical Center so that we could send Christmas cards to veterans in the hospital.  Glenda Milled asked for volunteers to fill out the program books for the coming year.  Karen Peery, Joyce Allen and Terri Williams volunteered.  It was also discussed where to meet next year.  Presbyterian Village will be available to meet in the community room.  Del Parks moved that we start meeting at the Presbyterian Village next year, Doris Ericson seconded the motion, motion carried.  Deb Lust, moved that the meeting be adjourned, Claudia Wheeler seconded the motion, meeting adjourned.

 

Before the meeting the members put together thirty-nine gift bags for the Tri-Valley clients.  The bags contained mugs filled with Chex mix, two pairs of socks and gloves, popcorn and hot chocolate mix packets, and a variety of candy.  The members also enjoyed a delicious carry in dinner before the meeting. During the dinner a collection was taken up to be presented to Preferred Living.

 

After the meeting the club enjoyed a white elephant exchange and a couple of Christmas games prepared by Glenda Miller.

 

Prepared by

Terri Williams

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Dec. 20

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Date: December 20, 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 6:00PM.
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Approval of Accounts Payable
• Ashley Shelton – KAC Renewal
• Ashley Shelton – Renewal of Cereal Malt Beverage Permit – Hidden Valley, 93 Hackberry Rd
• Lora Holdridge – PT Employee to FT Request
• Tiana McElroy – Report from Investigation
• Tiana McElroy – Response Letter
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer
o Bank Bids
o Handbook – Section 2
o Broker Selection
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
o Executive Session (3 sessions) KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of
individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• 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

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team Receives KDOT Grant

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Commerce Announces SEED Grant Recipients Supporting Economic Development

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the award recipients for the new Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) grant program. In total, 61 recipients will receive nearly $2.7 million to invest in small communities across the state.

“SEED grants provide funding for quality-of-life enhancements in some of our state’s smallest communities,” said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “These investments will set the stage for future economic development success and prosperity across the state.”

Awardees are located in communities with a population of 5,000 or less, as required by (KS Stat 9-2324 [2021]). They are required to provide a minimum 10-percent match as well as complete the projects within 12 months. Projects must be focused on economic development and revitalization efforts through one of the following quality-of-life categories:

  • Childcare and senior programming – projects that support or enhance these services, such as building improvements, educational materials, supplies and equipment
  • Community vibrancy – projects that refresh, re-energize and unlock the attractiveness of rural communities, such as art installations, murals and signage
  • Food retail – projects that support access to food retail establishments, including development, renovation and/or expansion
  • Libraries – projects that support providing free and open access to a broad range of materials and services, including reading material, technology, furniture and building improvements

Funding for the SEED program, which is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, is provided through the Technology Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institutions (TEFFI) Development and Expansion Fund. The TEFFI Act was enacted in 2021 through bipartisan legislation to promote economic development throughout the state.

The 2022 SEED grant recipients include:

County

Organization

Category(s)

Requested Amount

Allen

Thrive Allen County

Food Retail, Library

$49,125

Anderson

Anderson County Development Agency

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library

$43,860

Barber

Medicine Lodge Day Care Inc.

Childcare

$49,125

Bourbon

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, Inc.

Community Vibrancy

$33,882

Brown

Hiawatha Foundation for Economic Development

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library

$25,049

Chase

Chase County Chamber of Commerce

Community Vibrancy, Library

$26,661

Chautauqua

City of Sedan

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Cherokee

Weir & Galena Public Library

Library, Senior Programming

$32,118

Cheyenne

Cheyenne Community Development Corporation

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Clay

Grow Clay County

Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library

$46,571

Cloud

The City of Clyde

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Coffey

Coffey County Library

Library

$49,125

Doniphan

Doniphan County Economic Development

Childcare, Library

$49,125

Edwards

Edwards County Economic Development Corporation

Childcare, Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Elk

Elk County Community Foundation

Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Ellsworth

Wilson Czech Opera House Corporation

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Gove

Gove County Economic Development

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail

$47,289

Greeley

Growing the Vision

Food Retail, Library

$48,383

Greenwood

City of Eureka

Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Hamilton

Hamilton County

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Harper

Harper County Community Foundation

Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Harvey

City of Halstead

Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Jackson

Holton/Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library

$49,125

Jewell

City of Jewell

Community Vibrancy, Library

$37,040

Kearny

City of Lakin

Childcare

$39,300

Kingman

City of Kingman

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library

$48,179

Kiowa

Haviland Heritage Foundation

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Labette

City of Edna

Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Lincoln

Lincoln County Economic Development Foundation

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library

$49,125

Linn

Linn County Library District 1

Library

$49,125

Logan

Logan County Community Foundation

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library

$28,701

Marion

Peabody Township Library

Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Marshall

Friends of the Vermillion Community, Inc.

Community Vibrancy

$37,974

Meade

The Community Enhancement Foundation of Plains

Food Retail

$14,738

Mitchell

Mitchell County

Childcare

$49,125

Montgomery

City of Cherryvale

Library

$46,875

Morris

Little Huskies Childcare Center

Childcare

$24,563

Nemaha

Rural Development Association of Northeast Kansas

Community Vibrancy, Food Retail, Library

$48,030

Neosho

Thayer FRC City Library

Library

$35,687

Ness

Ness City Chamber of Commerce

Food Retail

$49,125

Osborne

City of Osborne Economic Development

Childcare, Food Retail, Library

$46,712

Ottawa

Ottawa County Community Development Foundation

Childcare, Library

$49,125

Pawnee

City of Rozel – Park Committee

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Phillips

Phillipsburg Child Care Center

Childcare

$42,408

Rawlins

Atwood Public Library

Library

$25,054

Republic

Belleville Chamber and Main Street

Food Retail

$49,125

Rice

Rice County Community Foundation

Childcare

$49,125

Rush

Rush County Economic Development

Food Retail

$49,125

Russell

Bunker Hill Lions Club

Community Vibrancy

$34,388

Sheridan

Sheridan County

Childcare, Library, Senior Programming

$49,125

Sherman

Sherman County Community Development Corporation

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Smith

City of Lebanon

Food Retail

$49,125

Stafford

Stafford County Economic Development

Food Retail, Library

$49,125

Stanton

Stanton County Community Foundation

Community Vibrancy

$36,480

Stevens

Heritage Christian Academy

Childcare

$49,125

Sumner

Sumner County Economic Development

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Trego

WaKeeney Travel & Tourism

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

Wabaunsee

Office of Economic Development, Wabaunsee

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Wallace

City of Wallace

Community Vibrancy

$32,397

Wilson

City of Fredonia

Childcare, Community Vibrancy, Library

$49,125

Woodson

Woodson Co. Revitalization Alliance/Revitalize YC

Community Vibrancy

$49,125

For more information about the SEED Grants, visit: kansascommerce.gov/seedgrants

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021 and 2022, and was awarded the 2021 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

Bourbon County, Government, Housing

Uniontown Receives USDA Grant To Rehabilitate Multi-Unit Housing

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USDA Invests $255,662 to Rehabilitate Residential and Community Buildings in Rural Kansas 

TOPEKA, Dec. 16, 2022 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director Kansas Christy Davis announced today that USDA is investing $255,662 to improve lives and strengthen communities in southeast Kansas.

 

“USDA Rural Development knows a strong community is rooted in its people,” Davis said. “Improving the living space of rural homes and community facilities can strengthen our towns and support our rural Kansas character.”

 

The details of the four Kansas investments are:

 

  • A $59,200 grant will help rehabilitate the exterior of the Independence Historical Museum. Located in the historic post office building, the museum celebrates the community’s culture through history, arts, and activities.
  • A $73,230 grant will be used to continue phase two of the rehabilitation process of two multi-unit housing complexes located in the cities of Uniontown and McCune.
  • A $50,000 grant will help rehabilitate approximately 20 owner-occupied homes (10 percent low income and 90 percent very-low income) in Coffey County. The projects consist of new roofs, electrical and plumbing upgrades, foundation repairs, heating systems and other general home rehabilitation needs.
  • A $73,232 grant will help homeowners and landlords make necessary repairs to properties that house low and very low-income rural residents in Allen County.

Background:

These USDA awards are part of a larger national announcement which include projects in 47 states and American Samoa. The four Kansas investments are being made through two programs specifically designed to help people and communities in rural areas. These programs are Housing Preservation Grants, and Community Facilities Disaster Grant Program.

 

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page. Please follow us on Twitter @RurDev_Kansas

 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

 

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Bourbon County, Schools, Youth

Bourbon County Schools Face Illnesses as The Semester Winds Down

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Bourbon County schools are experiencing school and staff illness in the last few weeks before school is out for Christmas break.

USD 234 Board of Education Building, 424 S. Main

Fort Scott

“We have had a large number of students and staff out the last several weeks with the flu, RSV and COVID 19; mostly the Influenza A,” USD 234 Superintendent Destry Brown said.

Destry Brown. Submitted photo.

On Monday, the district had 204 students out sick, which is down from last week by around 100, he said. There were seven teachers out Monday  with illness themselves or they have sick children.

The district has 1,856 students enrolled.

The district has had to postpone a music concert because of illness.

“The choir concert… has been rescheduled to January 11th at the Ellis Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m.,” Brown said.

“On Friday, the choir spent the day singing at different schools and other venues around town,” he said.  “I suspect that they shared the bug with each other that day. Whatever the case, their concert is postponed because of illness.”

U234 will dismiss school on Dec. 15 with a teacher workday on Dec. 16 and  school will resume on January 3.

Staff Positions

The district currently has openings that will be posted from retirements in the following areas:
Elementary Physical Education
Occupational Therapist
One teaching position
“I anticipate additional openings after the first of the year due to retirements,” Brown said.

 

Uniontown

Uniontown High School.

Uniontown School District had 63 students gone on Monday,  with a “handful of staff,” Vance Eden, USD 235 Superintendent said. There  are no postponements of school events at this time.

Vance Eden and family. Submitted photo.

“We have been able to cover all classes needing substitutes,” Eden said.

There are 479 students in this district.

The last day of school for this district is Friday, Dec. 16 for Christmas break. Staff will return on January 3 for professional development and students will return on January 4.

U235 Openings For Next Year

There are several openings being posted for U235 for the 2023-24 school year.

So far a junior/senior high school principal position, a jr./sr. English teacher and a high school science teacher.