The Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees will hold a special board meeting on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 4:00 pm in the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Agriculture Hall to begin work on the presidential search process and conduct business needing addressed before the regularly scheduled meeting on April 21. The Board will also adjourn to executive session(s) for the purpose of discussing non-elected personnel, with no action expected to follow.
Considered an “existential classic,” the play “No Exit,” written in 1944 by French author Jean-Paul Sartre, explores the burning question, “What is hell?”
“That query stays relevant as long as the afterlife remains ambiguous,” said Allen Twitchell, Fort Scott Community College’s theater instructor, who is directing a version of the play that opens at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in the Ellis Family Fine Arts Center. “In the end (or the beginning, if you will) hell might just turn out to be the eternal tortures we devise for ourselves.”
The play also runs at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Admission is free (donations are always appreciated), but Twitchell cautions that some content might be a little intense for younger children.
Sartre’s tale involves an apparently unlikely trio of newly assigned residents of the netherworld who struggle to gain an understanding of the transgressions committed during their lives that resulted in eternal damnation and their relocation together.
“It is a powerful presentation, wrought with conflict and emotionality,” said Twitchell, “and the cast was eager to take on the challenge. I believe the results will speak for themselves.”
The cast features sophomore Isaiah Subbert as Garcin, and freshmen Jericho Jones as the Valet, Jaedyn (Ray) Lewis as Inez, and Regen Wells as Estelle.
The stage manager is freshman Jesse Dinneen, while Joshua Ramsey serves as technical director and Zachary Loper as audio engineer.
“No Exit,” however worthy, is not the show originally scheduled as the spring theater offering.
“Honestly, until fate determined otherwise, it was the plan to stage a musical, ‘The Fantasticks,’ which 30 years ago helped launch the career of film and television actor/writer/producer Jason Sudeikis, then a student-athlete at FSCC,” said Twitchell. “Unable to effectively match our talent pool with the vocal ranges required for the musical, we prudently decided to shuffle that show to the back burner and replace it on the schedule with a play that more adequately suited our resources.”
Theater scholarships are available for the 2025-26 school year. Contact Twitchell at [email protected] for information.
The play opens next Thursday (March 27) and runs through Saturday (March 29.
March 24, 2025
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
March 24, 2025. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott Community
College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of culture and
diversity that provides affordable academic, technical and occupational programs to meet student needs while
fostering a mutually supportive relationship between the college and its communities.
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
C. Auditor’s Report of 23-24 Audit, 4
D. FSCC Music Program Update, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on February 17, 2025 and
Special Meeting conducted on February 24, 2025, 6
C. Approval Treasurer’s Report, Financial Report, and Checks, 14
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
DISCUSSION ITEMS, 93
A. Harley Davidson Program Review
B. Board Member Graduation Attendance
C. Honorary Degree Recipient
D. Revised Strategic Plan 2025 Spring, 94
E. Financial Strategic Plan, 114
F. Trustee Emeritus
ACTION ITEMS, 125
A. Scheduled Policy Review and Approval, 125
B. Consideration of Civility Policy, 129
C. Consideration of Recruitment Code of Conduct Policy, 132
D. Consideration of Disposition of Surplus Property Policy, 136
E. Approval of CDL Interest Payment to Foundation, 138
F. Approval of Memorial Scholarship Payment to Foundation, 1401
CORRESPONDENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES, 141
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 150
ADJOURNMENT, 151
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
• March 28, 2025 Aggie Day
• April 18, 2025 Campus Closed – Good Friday
• April 21, 2025 Board Meeting
• May 19, 2025 Board Meeting
• May 26, 2025 Campus Closed -Memorial Day
• June 16, 2025 Board Meeting
Sincerely,
Bryan Holt, Chair
Sara Sutton, Interim President
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a
central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and
departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective
processes; and developing the region’s workforce.2
ROLL CALL
_____ Ronda Bailey
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Chad McKinnis
_____ Doug Ropp3
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
C. AUDITOR’S REPORT OF 23-24 AUDIT
D. FSCC MUSIC PROGRAM UPDATE4
CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
Attached are the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting conducted on February 17, 2025 and
Special Meeting conducted on February 24, 2025
C. APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT AND CHECKS
Attached are the Treasurer’s Report, Financial Report, and Checks Written, Cleared, or Voided
D. APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTIONS
Additions
1) Steve Denton, Director of Facilities and Operations, effective March 31, 2025
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Consent Agenda items be approved as presented.
BOARD ACTION: MOTION _____ SECOND _____ VOTE _____
DISCUSSION:
VOTE: Bailey Bartelsmeyer Fewins
Holt McKinnis Ropp5
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting February 17, 2025
PRESENT: Ronda Bailey, John Bartelsmeyer, Jim Fewins, Bryan Holt, Chad McKinnis, and Doug Ropp
ALSO PRESENT: Sara Sutton – Interim President (via Zoom), Juley McDaniel – Board Clerk, faculty, staff,
community members.
Chairman Holt called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm in the meeting rooms of the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau
Agriculture Building.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and Holt reading FSCC’s mission statement.
COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR: None
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None
FSCC BASKETBALL PROGRAM UPDATE: Head Coaches Matt Glover and Alexus Stirgus presented
highlights of FSCC’s men’s and women’s basketball programs. Both groups have completed a lot of community
support. The groups have also volunteered a number of hours in community service. Women’s had 3 with 4.0, 7
with over 3.5. Player of the week, one with alltime rebounder in a game, one that may be a 3pt record with 7 3s in a
game. Recruiting stage. Women have over 50 hours in community service. It’s helped with attendance at games.
Both are appreciative of support from community and institutional support. Sutton thanked both programs for all
they’ve committed to our community and FSCC.
CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote
to approve the consent agenda. Ropp inquired why the Garrison water bill was so high for December. Missy will
research and return an answer.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
A. PURCHASE ORDER BOARD APPROVAL: The purchasing policy allows the VP of Finance and
Operations to approve all purchases under $20,000. In the future checks written will be provided as
opposed to POs presented for approval.
B. TRUSTEE EMERITUS: Ronda found the only other Kansas Community College that has a Trustee
Emeritus is Cloud County. Board members who had served at least twelve years were eligible to receive it.
State Fair in Missouri also has this designation and requires twelve years of service to be eligible. If FSCC
receives, the board would need to determine how to put it in place and create a policy as well as determine
who would be eligible to receive from prior years. Ronda and John will discuss and return with potential
criteria. Ronda would like to identify if there are other prior board members eligible with two terms of
service.
C. CIVILITY POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed civility policy. Board members shall provide any
thoughts or concerns regarding the proposed policy to Interim President Sutton before the next meeting.
The policy will be presented for approval at the next regular board meeting.
D. RECRUITMENT CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed recruitment code
of conduct policy. Board members shall provide any thoughts or concerns regarding the proposed policy to
Interim President Sutton before the next meeting. The policy will be presented for approval at the next
regular board meeting.6
E. DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed disposition of
surplus property policy. Board members shall provide any thoughts or concerns regarding the proposed
policy to Interim President Sutton before the next meeting. The policy will be presented for approval at the
next regular board meeting.
F. REVIEW OF MISSION STATEMENT, CORE VALUES, AND VISION STATEMENT: The board
reviewed FSCC’s current Mission Statement, Core Values, and Vision Statement. There was consensus of
the board to retain the mission statement, core values, and vision statement.
ACTION ITEMS:
A. SCHEDULED POLICY REVIEW AND APPROVAL: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded
by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the policies presented in the Scheduled Policy
Review as follows:
Safety and Fire Hazard Responsibilities
Employee Benefits
Kansas Public Employees Retirement System
Supervision and Sponsorship of Student Activities
Activity Passes
Worker Compensation
Professional Organizations
Hazardous Waste Disposal
B. VECTOR TRAINING SOLUTION: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and
carried by unanimous vote to approve the training solution as presented by Vector. The cost of the service
would be covered by the Student Success Initiative funds provided.
C. 2025-26 ACADEMIC CALENDAR AND 2024-25 ACADEMIC CALENDAR REVISION: A motion
was made by Bailey, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the 2025-26
academic calendar as presented and the revision to the 2024-25 academic calendar revisions as presented.
D. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH BOURBON COUNTY REDI: A motion was made
by Fewins, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the Memorandum of
Understanding with Bourbon County REDI.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES:
• ADMINISTRATION – The Board reviewed correspondence and heard updates from Academic Affairs,
Student Services, Foundation, Finance and Operations, and the Interim President.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: A motion was made by Holt, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous vote
to adjourn to executive session for twenty minutes beginning at 7:50 pm for the purpose of discussing non-elected
personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to
follow. The board invited Sonia Gugnani, Juley McDaniel, and Sara Sutton to join.
OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Holt, and carried by unanimous vote to
return to open session at 8:11 pm.
The board discussed potential dates for a special meeting in the next two weeks. There was consensus to hold a
special meeting on February 25, 2025 at 10:30 am.7
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at
8:16 pm by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote.
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting February 24, 2025 PRESENT:Ronda Bailey, John Bartelsmeyer, Jim Fewins, Bryan Holt, Chad McKinnis, and Doug Ropp ALSO PRESENT:Sara Sutton – Interim President, Juley McDaniel – Board Clerk, faculty, staff, community members. Chairman Holt called the meeting to order at 10:30 am in the meeting rooms of the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Agriculture Building. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and Holt reading FSCC’s mission statement. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR:None COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None CONSENT AGENDA:A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the consent agenda. A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to amend the agenda to hold the executive sessions prior to discussion items. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by McKinnis, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for twenty minutes beginning at 10:34 am for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real property with no action expected to follow. The board invited Sara Sutton and Vanessa Poyner to join. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 10:54 pm. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for thirty minutes beginning at 11:00 am to discuss personnel matters of nonelected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. The board invited Sara Sutton, Sonia Gugnani, and Juley McDaniel to join. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 11:30 pm. DISCUSSION ITEMS: A.STARS: •KBOR meeting update •Discuss future relationship with the Southeast Technical Academy for Rural Students (STARS)? •What does it look like for these programs for next year as far as location? (Paola/Fort Scott). •Discussion of employment with FSCC employees at the STARS location. •Drafting a response letter. Discussion Summary: The meeting with KBOR was last Thursday. Sara, Sonia, Rory, Missy, Ronda, and Bryan met with April White and KBOR. STARS had sent letter requesting release from FSCC. FSCC went through large amounts of documents, emails, etc. that goes back to 2018 to the creation of STARS.Provided a lot of evidence to KBOR pertaining to STARS. KBOR emphasized throughout the meeting they are not a mediator in instances like this. They want to stay out of local issues like this. FSCC is still not in the black or break-even point for the STARS location even with this being the 3rdyear of operation at STARS. FSCC is still in the red at that location at nearly $200,000, so still recouping the initial investment. That doesn’t count any of the grant funds utilized to purchase items for the location. Ronda indicated April White agreed with FSCC’s presentation of financials, as she had reviewed them prior to this meeting. This was the first interaction with KBOR regarding this subject. April White had reached out to set up the meeting after receiving the letter from STARS. April also indicated this isn’t the first time superintendents have tried to take over an area. April is out this week, but hoping for a response next week. KBOR received a different letter from STARS than FSCC did. Both STARS letters – to FSCC and to KBOR – were addressed. There has been discussion that there’s been no formal contract or MOU for the STARS location. FSCC has been trying to work through and facilitate an agreement and be a good partner. FSCC did not sign up for paying for a building and utilities in Pleasanton since we also have a location in Paola. STARS was generated because the local superintendents wanted something local for their students. FSCC agreed to pay for things related to curriculum and instruction but nothing else because we already had commitments on both sides of a Pleasanton location. The equipment at STARS is owned by a mix of FSCC and STARS. FSCC offered an MOU that would’ve equated to about $16,000 and would’ve covered the utilities. STARS proposed FSCC turning over all of the money and STARS returning 15% to FSCC. FSCC can’t turn over all the funding to non-educational group to make educational decisions for us. FSCC also added funds to pay half of the cost of a secretary for the facility. FSCC has tried to negotiate and be a good partner. Bryan pointed out the letter to FSCC doesn’t include anything FSCC has done wrong. The letter to KBOR indicated FSCC hasn’t been a good partner or negotiated despite multiple attempts, so the issues come out of sustainable funding. STARS says they’re a technical school, but they don’t grant the degrees or the certificates. Should FSCC look at another area to facilitate this instruction? Some Bourbon County students are driving and Miami County students driving to STARS. We need to consider how to best serve the students who are currently being served. We would love to come to agreement with STARS to facilitate instruction in that area. Four faculty members, a secretary, and a director at STARS plus benefits that we’re paying for. We have facilities in Paola and we need to expand in Bourbon County. Also have a current need for a construction trades location in Bourbon County that’s currently being taught at FSHS. The STARS letter is effective 6/30. HLC as the accreditor cares that students who start a program are offered an opportunity to complete the program in some way. Uniontown students currently driving to STARS. If we can’t come to an agreement, we need to consider next steps on how to serve those students so they have an opportunity to finish. Welding is offered in all 4 counties. That’s the type of thing that is saturating the market, and acting cannibalistic to our own credit hours. The Linn County News article gives the impression the partnership is over. KBOR meeting didn’t give that indication. STARS can choose to move on if they choose to, but they don’t have the authority to grant degrees and certificates. FSCC currently fulfills the duty of serving students in service area, so would not look at granting ability to another institution to operate there. STARS initially requested official response from FSCC within 5 days. FSCC sent a response saying the board needed to meet to discuss, but STARS continued to pursue addressing with KBOR. A response from KBOR will allow FSCC to provide an official response to STARS. It’s not feasible to have a tech center in each area.10
Cannot award degrees/certificates for things taught by faculty who aren’t ours. STARS does great things, but we’re also seeing reduction in enrollment at other locations. We have to have programmatic control, and consider the whole story (our other locations offering the same thing in the areas. When options are available for the board to consider, Sara will bring forward so things can progress. We will send a letter that indicates the Board has met and is awaiting KBOR’s response. B.CTEC: •Review of the CTEC non-renewal letter. •Discussion of employment with FSCC employees at the CTEC location. •Discuss the next steps of the transition process. •Drafting a response letter. Discussion Summary: Letter dated 2/17 of CTEC’s intent to not renew with FSCC as of 6/30. Board has a copy of that letter. When Sara came into current role, she was aware there was potential relationship patching to be done at the CTEC location. She started going to CTEC’s monthly board meetings. Dan Boley came into director of CTEC in July. Rory had acted as interim part of previous year. Bryan and Chad have engaged into some conversation with CTEC as well. It was brought to CTEC board meeting that they may be going with another educational entity in the summer. CTEC is not in FSCC’s service area. For FSCC to operate in Crawford County, PSU must grant permission each semester. John said it’s continued to get more difficult over time to deal with. It’s really up to PSU to determine if FSCC can operate in their service area. Ronda questioned what lack of program growth was.Both parties have lacked in strategic vision and conversation about what the goals and objectives are. FSCC did not receive a letter similar to what STARS sent. There have been multiple conversations, but no official document. At the last CTEC board meeting, CTEC said they wanted PSU to come in and KBOR would push things through for funding and program approval. SB155 funds (high school generated funding for CTE courses) is granted to community colleges and technical schools. CTEC would either need a community college or tech school come in or have legislation change to capture the funding. Lack of program growth – Did FSCC know the expectations for program growth? CTEC board has discussed programs they’d like, but FSCC would like to be part of those conversations. Bryan expressed disappointed because he knows Sara, Sonia, and Rory really leaned into resolving the issues created by history, but don’t think they had an opportunity to really make things work. Both CTEC11 and STARS have been doing great things. Clearly some problems FSCC has contributed to, but current admin team and new board didn’t get a fair opportunity to make it work. It takes time to turn around 3 years of problems. FSCC would like to make it work if we could. FSCC received a letter from CTEC proposing a letter of intent to work with STARS to facilitate curriculum and instruction. Jay told Ronda STARS would like to be like CTEC and work with CTEC in 2023. Frustrating to hear CTEC working with an entity within our service area to work with a group outside our service area. Discussions about CTEC and STARS pushing together because it’s a better sell to make it a regional shift. Communicating with employees on how the employees are affected. Trying to do best to make sure we can still facilitate employment, but if we can’t, what does that look like as an employee of FSCC. Biggest difference between CTEC and STARS situations is that CTEC is in our service area. Sara recommends writing response letter to CTEC on working with their board to properly unravel and do what’s in the best interest of our students and employees. Lot of people counting on it being handled civilly and professionally. Want to meet with their board. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for twenty minutes beginning at 12:25 pm to discuss personnel matters of nonelected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 12:45 pm. ADJOURNMENT:There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at 12:45 pm by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote. ChairmanClerk12
Lynn County News is reporting that USD 346 was informed that the board of Southeastern Technical Academy for Rural Students has voted to seek separation from Fort Scott Community College for the upcoming school year. They plan to ask the Kansas Board of Regents to provide mediation in the efforts to separate from FSCC.
FortScott.biz reached out to the STARS, but the employees had been instructed not to communicate with the paper.
According to the FSCC website and USD346’s website, South Eastern Technical Academy for Rural Students offers high school students dual credit college-level courses through FSCC in the following programs from the location in Pleasanton:
Certified Nurse Aide
Emergency Medical Technician
Criminal Justice
Construction Trades
Welding
Heavy Equipment
HVAC
STARS 2024 Graduates in front of 1701 Laurel St. Pleasanton, KS. Photo from FSCC promotional literature. Photo credit Kristie Kern
The program was announced in 2021 and began in the fall semester of 2022 with programs offered through the Kansas Board of Regents for Excel in CTE funding, which meant students could complete technical college courses without being charged tuition and most fees.
FSCC Board of Trustees will be holding a special board meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 10:30 am in the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Agriculture Hall to approve personnel actions and conduct business needing addressed before the regularly scheduled meeting on March 24. They will also adjourn to executive session for the purpose of discussing no-elected personnel, with no action expected to follow.
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting January 27, 2025 PRESENT:Ronda Bailey, John Bartelsmeyer, Jim Fewins, Bryan Holt, Chad McKinnis, and Doug Ropp (via Zoom) ALSO PRESENT:Sara Sutton – Interim President (via Zoom), Juley McDaniel – Board Clerk, faculty, staff, community members. Chairman Holt called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm in the meeting rooms of the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Agriculture Building. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and Holt reading FSCC’s mission statement. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR:None COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CELEBRATION UPDATE:Kirk Sharp, Director of the Gordon Parks Museum, highlighted the events of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration as well as the Gordon Parks Museum. Students read tributes to Martin Luther King, Jr. at the recent celebration. In addition to the Lunch and Learn, a Day of Service was held to take donations for the Beacon. The Museum is gearing up for Black History Month. A Lunch and Learn will be held on February 12. Tribute panels will be displayed in the Ellis Fine Arts Center Lobby throughout February to showcase lesser-known members of history. KSN’s Living Well program will highlight the Gordon Parks Museum in February, as well. First graders from Winfield Scott recently visited the Museum, and Eugene Ware fifth graders are planning an upcoming visit. Kirk will be presenting to PSU’s Black Student Union in February. Other upcoming events include Gordon Parks Fashion Bootcamp, Gordon Parks Museum Fundraiser event, and Fort Scott Now Stories Documentary and Photos. The museum is going to start expanding the Langston Hughes and Gordon Parks traveling collection with support of Kansas Tourism. The history of the Waymen Chapel AME Church Park Project was shared. The annual Gordon Parks Celebration will be on October 2 – 4, 2025. ELECTION OF OFFICERS: A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous 5-0 vote to appoint Bryan Holt as Board Chair. Holt abstained. A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous 5-0 vote to appoint Doug Ropp as Board Vice-Chair. Ropp abstained. APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS, POSITIONS, AND OFFICIALS FOR 2025: A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous vote to approve appointments below for 2025. INFORMATION OFFICERJuley McDaniel CLERK OF THE BOARDJuley McDaniel TREASURERMelissa Scott KPERS REPRESENTATIVEJuley McDaniel KACCT REP AND COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS REPRESENTATIVEChad McKinnis, Ronda Bailey FINANCIAL COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVEBryan Holt, Jim Fewins GREENBUSH REPRESENTATIVEJohn Bartelsmeyer NEGOTIATIONS REPRESENTATIVEChad McKinnis DESIGNATED BANK FOR GENERAL FUNDLandmark National Bank DESIGNATED ATTORNEYZackery Reynolds OFFICIAL NEWSPAPERFort Scott Tribune6
CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the consent agenda. DISCUSSION ITEMS: A.TRUSTEE EMERITUS:Ronda shared the Trustee Emeritus possibility as shared by Robert Nelson. The board agreed that if it starts there needs to be criteria and guidelines and also identify who is in charge of keeping it up and going. Fewins questioned if any other community colleges have a similar recognition. Board members will further research the topic and bring ideas back to the next meeting for discussion. REPORTS: •ADMINISTRATION –The Board reviewed and heard updates from Academic Affairs, Student Services, Foundation, Finance and Operations, and the Interim President. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for fifteen minutes beginning at 7:00 pm for the purpose of discussing non- elected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. The board invited Sonia Gugnani and Sara Sutton to join. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 7:15 pm. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for fifteen minutes beginning at 7:16 pm for the purpose of discussing non- elected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. The board invited Sonia Gugnani and Sara Sutton to join. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 7:31 pm. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for fifteen minutes beginning at 7:35 pm for the purpose of discussing non- elected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 7:50 pm. ADJOURNMENT:There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at 7:50 pm by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote. ChairmanClerk7
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday, February 17, 2025. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott Community College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of culture and diversity that provides affordable academic, technical and occupational programs to meet student needs while fostering a mutually supportive relationship between the college and its communities.
CALL TO ORDER, 4
Comments from the Chair, 4
Comments from the Public, 4
FSCC Basketball Program Update, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
Approval of Agenda, 5
Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on January 27, 2025, 6
Approval of Bills and Claims, 13
Approval of Personnel Actions, 4
DISCUSSION ITEMS, 37
Purchase Order Board Approval, 37
Trustee Emeritus, 37
Civility Policy, 38
Recruitment Code of Conduct, 40
Disposition of Surplus Property, 42
Review of Mission Statement, Core Values, and Vision Statement, 43
ACTION ITEMS, 44
Scheduled Policy Review and Approval, 45
Consideration of Vector Training Solution, 48
Approval of 2025-26 Academic Calendar and 2024-25 Academic Calendar Revision, 76
Approval of Memorandum of Understanding with Bourbon County REDI, 79
CORRESPONDENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES, 80
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 91
ADJOURNMENT, 92
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
February 17, 2025 Board Meeting
March 24, 2025 (Changed from March 17 due Board Meeting to spring break)
March 17 – 21, 2025 Campus Closed – Spring Break
March 28, 2025 Aggie Day
April 18, 2025 Campus Closed – Good Friday
April 21, 2025 Board Meeting
May 19, 2025 Board Meeting
May 26, 2025 Campus Closed -Memorial Day
June 16, 2025 Board Meeting
Sincerely,
Bryan Holt, Chair
Sara Sutton, Interim President
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective processes; and developing the region’s workforce.
Ft. Scott Community College came to Fort Scott City Commission last week to obtain a letter of support for a house-building grant they are applying for. The application is due February 14, 2025.
Sonia Gugnani, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Rory Chaplain, Associate Dean of CTE and workforce development spoke to the commissioners on Feb. 13 in a special meeting.
Gugnani told the commission that Fort Scott Community College is applying for the Frame grant through the Department of Commerce for community and technical colleges in Kansas. It’s a construction trade grant. The total amount available is $2million, with awards ranging from $250,000 to $1 million per award for those who qualify. This grant is to be used to build 4 houses in the next 2 years, with the first 2 either being renovated or built in the first year and proceeds from the sale of those properties used to build another 2 houses in the next year.
However, the grant money cannot be used buy the land or create the infrastructure needed for the houses.
Gugnani told the commissioners that FSCC wants to collaborate with the city to benefit students and residents of Bourbon County. She asked the city to donate land to build houses on. These houses would be 1100 to 1500 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. The Bourbon County Housing Assessment study by Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI) in 2022 showed there is a need for these kind of houses in Fort Scott.
It would give our students work alongside the contractor and give them an opportunity to give back to their community, said Gugnani.
Chaplain explained that their aim is to build houses in the $185,000 to $225,000 range, so they “feel like it kind of needs to be more of a subdivision, rather than infill,” because the goal is to perpetuate the grant by continuing to build and sell homes. This will give students the ongoing opportunity to learn building skills. Homes must be sold within 180 days of completion.
They are hoping to build a neighborhood, according to Gugnani. The problem with using the renovation option of the grant, is that the department of commerce says they (the homes) must be uninhabitable to qualify.
Commissioner Katheryn Salsbury asked if the school could work with the land bank, which keeps the city from having to build all the infrastructure on a neighborhood plot of land. “It seems to me like that would be a better route,” she said.
Chaplain explained that the issue with using land bank properties is the difficulty of getting a clear title. “The Frame grant allows us to do more, as far as scale. We want to get a bigger return up front before working infill lots.”
Regarding the need to add infrastructure, he said if the land has water and sewer, that could spur on other builds from other contractors.
Gugnani also pointed out that the lots need to be adjacent to facilitate student’s working, as they are bussed over from their schools.
Commissioner Tim Vanhoeke verified that the school does not already have a parcel in mind, and asked how much FSCC is putting into the purchase.
City Manager Brad Matkin explained that the city would purchase the land and gift it to FSCC. As for infrastructure, the city would do it. He said that committing to a certain dollar amount of land purchase money is all the grant application requires.
Commissioner Tracey Dancer said he is not supportive of the city being a land holder or of city tax payers paying to supplement another taxing entity’s acquisition. FSCC already taxes residents of the city and, “the idea that the city tax payers would then pay again, more, to then supplement the community college’s budget. I can’t support it.”
Chaplain responded that FSCC is not asking for more taxes. “The point of the grant is to bolster housing and then also the training for the skills gap…and then also the economic development.”
Gugnani said it’s about whether or not they can include the city’s support in their grant application.
Commissioner Matthew Wells said, “You gotta look at the benefits vs. the cost. One of the benefits that this would bring, specifically to the school, is that if they can get this grant and invest in it now, then in the third and fourth year, they’re going to have the money….this is something that allows them to sow in to doing the land bank properties later.” If they go after the land bank properties right now, they’re not going to make enough of a return to make this particular grant viable for the long-term probability of the program to be able to benefit the city.19:14
Matkin suggested the city buy a 10 acre plot, give 4 to the school to build on and sell the rest to developers to recoup the costs of the city’s initial investment.
Katheryn Salsbury mentioned that at the last city commission meeting they discussed the need for properties in the $60,000-$70,000 range. “I wish that’s what we were doing here….are there enough people in the area who can afford housing these houses that are $125,000 plus?”
Chaplain said that based on housing study and realtors they’ve spoken with, the range they are aiming for is the most popular ask.
Vanhoeke asked what number FSCC wants the city to commit to.
Chaplain replied they are looking at property in the $10,000-$15,000 per acre range.
Matkin said that while the city doesn’t have a 5-10 acre plot within city limits, but there are properties owned by others.
Dancer said he could support working with land bank properties. But reiterated his unwillingness to help another taxing entity (FSCC) by spending taxpayer dollars to buy property.
Matkin replied that FSCC isn’t asking for the city to help them with their budget, they are asking for a grant to give kids the opportunity to build houses. The grant provides material and tools.
Chaplain asked about the city’s economic development dollars.
Dancer said it was already designated. Wells disagreed, saying they had “over $100,000,” and Matkin mentioned land bank money as well.
“We are not looking for 8-10 acres, that was just an idea for the city to recoup the costs,” said Gugnani.
Commissioner Dyllan Olson said the city has to grow. “If your saying investing $100,000 to get more than $2 million in return is a bad investment, I would have to disagree with that.”
Wells pointed out that at the end of the day the city would get 4 taxable properties that would pay back into the city coffers in the form of property taxes for the foreseeable future. He said that by spending $30,000 for 2 acres for the school to build houses on, at current tax rates, the city would recoup their investment in less than 10 years.
Olson said the land bank lacks properties with clear titles that would be viable for the school’s project. Title insurance won’t be available for at least 10 or 15 more years, while the land bank works to clear up the titles.
“We need to make sure were are building the place that we able to sell it so we can recoup the money so that we can continue this project…Building is one part of it. Sustaining is a bigger part of it,” pointed out Gugnani. She said that all the profits of the sale of the houses are rolled into building the next house. FSCC cannot keep any of the money.
Vanhoeke said he was opposed to putting any monetary support in a letter of support from the city.
The City of Fort Scott, REDI, Bourbon County Foundation, and USD234 have all been asked for a letter of support, per Gugnani.
Wells made motion: Because it’s Fort Smith Community College and would provide benefit to our city, provide employees that know how to build, “I’d be willing to offer up at least $30,000 from the economic development fund to be able to purchase land to donate to the school in order to get this program going, just based on the return that we’re going to see.”
Motion was seconded by Olson.
It failed to carry due to Dancer, Vanhoeke, and Salsbury voting against it.
Dancer then made a motion for a letter of the support to include infrastructure, but with no dollar amount or acquisition of property.
Olson asked if the city manager could then look for properties.
Dancer then retracted his motion.
“We have 25 years of not having new housing,” a concerned citizen addressed the commission, saying that the community serious has housing issues and has voiced that they are desperately looking for new housing. “All I ask is that you take the time to consider… that they [community] are looking for some new options to be able to stay here in Ft. Scott. Our population is continually declining. If we don’t make some sort of a move in some direction, I’m afraid that that decline will still continue.”
Salsbury tried to bring the commission to a decision saying they want to support FSCC, but without a dollar amount.
Vanhoeke said dollars should be used to incentivize contractors to rehab or build infills, not fund FSCC’s plan.
Matkin asked what the difference is between giving financial help to a developer (which he predicted would be asked for in a future commission meeting) and buying land for FSCC to build houses on, because it’s a grant they are going after, it’s not benefiting FSCC, but the tax payers by putting houses on the tax rolls.
It’s beneficial to the people who live here and attracting people who commute here. The students who live here in the county, help the community, take pride in it, will be building the houses, pointed out Gugnani.
Wells said there are more than 2,800 commuters to Fort Scott who want to live here, but they want new homes, so they buy them in other cities.
Dancer said that due to the short notice, he is disinclined to commit to support in a monetary amount. “The public has not had a chance to consider this, to contact their representatives…”
Chaplain apologized for the last-minute nature of their meeting, but said regarding helping FSCC and developing housing in Fort Scott, “I don’t think that should be anything new as far as what the idea is.”52:08
Wells made the motion, “that the city write a letter of support saying that we will donate land for the building of the four houses and help with the infrastructure that is needed in order to get the grant.”
Olson seconded.
Dancer wanted to clarify that the city is committing to donate the land by the Aug. 1, 2025 grant start date, “whether we have it currently or not. So sometime in the next 5 months we would have to find the land, or acquire the land, or have it donated.” He expressed concern about urgency driving prices of the land up.
