At this morning’s final Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce hosted by the City of Fort Scott, City Manager Brad Matkin gave the following speech to the attendees.

This year was about stability, progress, and laying a solid foundation for the future of Fort Scott. Through careful planning and disciplined financial management, the City maintained a balanced budget, protected our reserves, and continued to make strategic investments in our community. At a time when many cities are facing financial strain, Fort Scott remained fiscally responsible while continuing to deliver essential services.

One of our most important accomplishments this year was continued investment in infrastructure. We made meaningful progress on street improvements and utility maintenance, focusing on projects that improve safety, reliability, and long-term efficiency. These are not always the most visible projects, but they are critical to protecting our assets and supporting future growth.

Public safety remained a top priority. Our police, 911 Dispatch, and fire departments continued to serve with professionalism and dedication, maintaining strong response times and community engagement. Training, equipment upgrades, and inter-agency coordination helped ensure our first responders remain prepared to serve and protect the community.

Tourism continued to be an important driver of activity in Fort Scott this year. Visitors drawn to our historic assets, community events, and local attractions supported our businesses, restaurants, and lodging establishments. From heritage tourism centered around Fort Scott National Historic Site to festivals, holiday events, athletic events, museums, and regional gatherings; tourism helped generate economic activity while showcasing what makes Fort Scott unique.

These tourism efforts not only benefit our local economy but also reinforce community pride and increases Fort Scott’s regional presence.

Economic development in Fort Scott this year focused on strengthening what we already have while positioning the community for future opportunity. We continued working with local businesses, property owners, and regional partners to support reinvestment, job retention, and responsible growth. Economic development in Fort Scott is about progress with purpose—building on our strengths while preparing for the opportunities ahead.

None of these accomplishments would be possible without our city employees. I want to recognize the dedication of our staff across all departments, many of whom take on multiple roles and responsibilities to ensure services are delivered efficiently and professionally. Their commitment to Fort Scott is evident every day.

As we look ahead, our focus will remain on sound financial stewardship, continued infrastructure investment, public safety, tourism and Business Development. While challenges remain, Fort Scott is well-positioned to move forward with confidence.

I would also like to thank Fort Scott’s business leaders and local employers. Your commitment to investing here, employing our residents, rehabbing buildings that seemed lost, and supporting community events is essential to our city’s success. You are key partners in Fort Scott’s progress, and we appreciate the role you play in keeping our community strong and resilient.

I’ve heard comments that Fort Scott is “dying.” I don’t see a city in decline—I see a city that is evolving, investing, and positioning itself for the future. Communities that are truly dying are not improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, welcoming visitors, or planning ahead. Fort Scott is doing all of those things.

As we look ahead to 2026, Fort Scott’s goals focus on responsible growth, strong core services, and community well-being. We will continue investing in infrastructure, including streets, utilities, and public facilities, while maintaining a balanced budget and strong financial stewardship. Supporting economic development and local businesses remains a priority, alongside efforts to promote tourism and highlight Fort Scott’s historic and cultural assets. Public safety, workforce development, and community engagement will remain central to our work, ensuring residents continue to enjoy a safe, vibrant, and thriving city. These goals are designed to strengthen our foundation and position Fort Scott for continued progress and opportunity.

It is an honor to be City Manager of the place I call “HOME” and will continue to work hard to make this a much better place for all of us.

“As we enter the Christmas season, may we be reminded that the true strength of Fort Scott lies in the spirit of service, generosity, and community we share.”

Thank you, and I look forward to continuing our work together in the year ahead.

FORT SCOTT — Repairs on the U.S. 69 bridge over Wall Street in Fort Scott have been completed, and the north and southbound lanes are now fully open, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Repairs on the Wall Street bridge began the week of June 9.

The project included patching and resurfacing the bridge deck. PCI Roads LLC, of St. Michael, Minnesota, had the $1.5 million construction contract.

For current road conditions, visit kandrive.gov or call 5-1-1. For updates on construction projects in Southeast Kansas, visit ksdot.gov/projects/southeast-kansas-projects.