Category Archives: Fort Scott

What’s Happening in Fort Scott August 22 Edition

What’s Happening in Fort Scott! August 22nd Weekly Newsletter

Fort Scott Town-Wide Garage Sale

Click HERE to register your sale!

Want to advertise your business on the map?! For ONLY $35!!

Contact us at 620-223-3566 or [email protected]

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

** Guided tours Saturday & Sunday 10am & 1pm! **

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

Fort Scott Farmers Market

Saturdays | 8am-noon & Tuesdays | 4-6pm

Gathering Square Pavilion, 111 N. National

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

FS Public Library

*Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30-3pm

201 S. National Ave.

Kansas Small Business Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 9am-4pm.

Dolly Trolley Historic 50-min narrated tours!

Adults $6 | Children 12&under $4

Call 620-223-3566 or stop in the Chamber at

231 E. Wall St. to book your ride!

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

UPCOMING EVENTS

8/22 ~ 11am-4pm | Blood Drive at Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)

Front Office Admin Bldg. – Conference Room

1770 South Highway T

Deerfield, MO 64741

8/22 ~ 1-4pm | Aging Forward hosted by First United Methodist Church

8/22 ~ 7-8pm | Friday Night Concerts

In The Park

NO CONCERT THIS WEEK

8/22 ~ 6:30-8pm | Open Mic Night hosted by FSHS Thespians

@ Common Ground Coffee Co.

8/22 ~ 8-10pm | Bourbon County Arts Council presents Roxie & The Moon King

Liberty Theatre Patio Concert

113 S. Main St.

Members $10 | Non-Members $20

Contact: Terri Floyd 620-224-7221 or

Deb Anderson 620-224-8650

8/22-23 ~ | FS Public Library Book Sale

Friday Aug. 22nd: 9am-5:50pm

Sat. Aug. 23rd: 9am-1:50pm

** The last hour of the day on Saturday will be fill a bag for a $1

8/23 ~ EKTEC Rodeo

Bourbon County Fairgrounds

Click HERE for a pre-entry form!

8/23 ~9:30-11am Flag Church Food Distribution at FSMS

8/23 ~ 11am-3pm | Wet Cyanotype Workshop with Roxi at The Artificers

$100 / all materials included

Click HERE to sign up!

8/24 ~ 1:30-3:30pm Parent Empowerment Circle – Focusing on FUN!

@ the Splash Pad and Sensory Park

111 N. National Ave.

8/25 ~ Founders Day at National Historic Site

Family-friendly games, trivia, scavenger hunt throughout the day. Fort Tours at 10am and 1pm. musical and performance by the 1st Infantry Division Band from Fort Riley.

8/26 ~ 12-1:30pm | FSCC Workforce Programs Engagement Luncheon

@FSCC Bailey Hall Student Union

RSVP to confirm your attendance to [email protected]

8/27 ~ 11:45am-1pm | Community Connection Panelist Luncheon hosted by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

@Empress Event Center, 7 N. Main St.

Event is Free

Registration is requested

$10 Box lunches available by pre-order

RSVP by clicking HERE!

8/27 ~ 4-7pm | Pizza Hut Pop up @G&W parking lot

Click HERE to pre-order!

8/27 ~ 6-7pm | Meet new FSCC President,

Dr. Jack Welch

@ FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center

8/27 ~ 6pm | Creative Hands Craft Club

(New to Fort Scott)

@ Gunn Park Shelter #7

8/28 ~ 8am | Chamber Coffee hosted by Skitch;s Hauling & Excavating, Inc.

@ Aunt Toadies restaurant

1411 E. Wall St.

8/29 ~ | 120th Annual Old Settlers Picnic

Uniontown, Kansas

8/29 ~ 7-9pm | FSHS Tiger Football

Pre-Season Jamboree

@ Louisburg, KS

8/30 ~ 8am | WHGC Men’s League

Golf Scramble

@ Woodland Hills Golf Course

8/30 ~ 8am | Co-Ed Softball Tournament

for Care To Share

@ Ellis Park Ball Fields

1105 E. 12th St.

Click HERE for the Facebook Event Page!

8/30 ~ 8am-4pm | Craft-O-Rama

by Museum Of Creativity

@ Skubitz Plaza

Craft tent, mini carnival, game booths, activities, food, drinks, & bake sale items!

All proceeds will go towards their Wheelchair Access Ramp Fundraiser.

Click HERE for the Facebook Event Page!

8/30 ~ 10am-3pm | Glaze Day at The Artificers

8/30 ~ 11am-2pm | Paint & Pizza @ Papa Don’s

Paint a sunbeam puppy!

$30

Click HERE for the Facebook Event Page!

8/30 ~ 2-7pm | 3rd Annual Sons of American Legion Post 25 Car Show

@ The Gathering Square Pavilion

Food trucks | Live Music | Cash Prizes

$10 entry fee

Questions:

L.W. Beebower 620-215-1599

Tom Metcalf Jr. 620-224-7951

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.

Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!

Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema

THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBERS!

Some West Side Streets Will Close To Traffic on August 25

Starting Monday, 8/25/2025, the following streets will be closed to traffic.
8th Street from Holbrook to Crawford
Eddy Street from St. Mary’s Road (between 7th and 8th streets) to 8th Street
Eddy Street from 8th to 10th
9th Street from Crawford to Holbrook
Residents in this area will be able to access their houses during this time. Please use caution. Thank you.
Brad Matkin
City Manager
City of Fort Scott

Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission on August 19

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of August 19, 2025                                     Regular Meeting

 

A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held  in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer, Dyllon Olson, and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In AttendanceBrad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Pete Earles/Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Pete Allen, Lindsay Hill/FSCC, Michael Hoyt, Rob Hansen, Rory Chaplin, Alyson Goodwin/InSite Real Estate Group, Nathan Eady/Senior Manager, Economic Development & PolicyAmazon, Kirk Sharp/Gordon Parks Museum, Rachel French/Fort Scott Forward, Lewis Nihiser and Thomas Metcalf Jr/Sons of the American Legion.

 

VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and DANCER said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the amended agenda VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1390-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of July 23, 2025 – August 12, 2025$662,802.14

–  Approval of Minutes:  Special Meeting of July 30, 2025; Special Meeting of August 4, 2025; and Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025.

–  Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18159 – 21-303 – Davis Lift Station – Addendum No. 4 ($11,600.00) and Addendum No. 5 ($18,600.00) – Total $30,3200.00

–  Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18141 – EEI No. 25-12 – East National Project Phase I – Survey 100% ($6,400.00) and Preliminary Design 12.5% ($12,937.50)Total $19,337.50

–  Request to Pay – Cardinal Sitework – Application for Payment No. 2 (FINAL) – Charles Street Lift Station EEI No. 24-003B$3,587.45

–  July Financials

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Comment

Lindsay Hill/FSCC – Thanked the commission for originally approving the land donation for the FRAME grant, however, the college will have to decline the land because real estate agents advised that they would likely lose money building homes in that location. HILL stated she is now the grant administrator for the college, replacing Sonia Guganani.  VAN HOECKE requested that a representative of the university be present to confirm land suitability for future infrastructure assistance requests. HOYT asked if the college had any written specifications for properties that could be shopped for during the upcoming tax sale. HILL responded that they have found a property that will work best for the college and will be coming back to the city to ask for assistance with infrastructure.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to revisit the City’s commitment to providing infrastructure development for the FRAME Grant under Item IX, New Business, Item E. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Appearances

Rachel Carpenter delivered a Tourism Report, noting that since May she has focused on promoting Fort Scott through history and culture, outdoor recreation, relaxation, and events. She reported on bus tours, events, and downtown revitalization, along with expanded marketing efforts through social media, the updated Visit Fort Scott website, radio/TV ads, and printed materials. Grants have supported promotional videos and downtown signage improvements. Upcoming goals include hosting influencer groups, expanding social media, and addressing ongoing signage challenges with KDOT. Carpenter has attended tourism conferences, partnered with the Chamber, and is exploring collaboration with Visit KC. Staff commended her leadership, and future plans include applying for a World Cup marketing grant, working with FSCC on a December initiative, and using the Placer data tool to strengthen targeted marketing.

 

Discussion was had about updating the tourism signs on Hwy 69, connecting with the upcoming African American Tourism Conference and the previous Tourism Advisory Board.

 

Thomas Metcalf Jr. – 3rd Annual Sons of American Legion Car Show – August 30, 2025 – Request for Temporary Street Closure – National Ave. between Oak St. and Pine St. The event includes cars, trucks, motorcycles, and a kids class, with trophies and cash prizes. MATKIN wanted to make it about drug awareness for kids and recommended closing off the street north of H and H to the alley to prevent traffic near the pavilion.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved  to close the recommended streets, including Fort Scott Boulevard from National to the alleyway. SALSBURY seconded.

 

ACTION:  VAN HOECKE confirmed that the Sons of the American Legion will work with the City for the requested barricades.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Unfinished Business

Public Hearing #1

MOTION:  WELLS moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Planning Commission Case No. 1052 – Conditional Use Permit – 2400 S. Main – Amazon Storage Unit – Recommended by Planning Commission on July 9, 2025 – Tabled from August 5, 2025

Transcript of Public Hearing – Attachment 1 – Amazon representative, Nathan Eady presented Amazon’s proposal for a storage unit (ASU) at 2400 South Main Street by telephone. The project aims to improve customer delivery service in rural areas. The ASU will extend delivery to new zip codes not currently serviced by Amazon. It will rely on additional flex drivers, potentially increasing employment and revenue. Current freight flex drivers will continue to receive packages as before. EADY anticipates one to two box trucks per day, smaller than semi-truck trailers. The ASU will not affect current zip codes, only new areas not currently serviced. The goal is to have a centralized deposit place for packages to expand flex deliveries, not downsize or eliminate jobs. The Planning Commission approved the Conditional Use Permit for the ASU on July 9, 2025.

 

FRENCH addressed the Commission and commented that examples of areas not currently serviced include Uniontown and Redfield.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTIONDANCER moved to approve the Conditional Use Permit for the Amazon Storage Unit recommended by the Planning Commission. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Hearing #2

MOTION:  DANCER moved to open the public hearing. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Vacation of Alley – Lewis Nihiser Revisit requested by City Commission – Transcript of Public Hearing – Attachment 2 – The proposal to vacate an undeveloped alley in exchange for a lift station easement raised concerns among commissioners about setting a precedent, utility access, and the City’s view on giving up land. WELLS preferred a lease over a trade, others emphasized the need for a consistent process. One speaker urged a site visit and suggested moving the discussion along.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to close the public hearing. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to vacate or abandon the alley in question as a trade for the easement that we did not give you for the lift station. SALSBURY seconded.  VAN HOECKE, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes.  WELLS and OLSON voted no.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Further discussion was had about the City’s position on street and alley vacations.

 

VAN HOECKE called for Point of Order. The Commission agreed return to the next order of business on the agenda.

 

Action Items:

Consideration of Appointment of (1) Member for FSHPRC Tabled from August 5, 2025  

DILLON reported that the Historic Preservation Resource Commission’s process is continuing, with two additional resumes submitted for review of appointment. Discussion was had regarding applicant eligibility and documentation, as some confirmed candidates failed to submit resumes or complete applications, one lacked service on the Design Review Board, and one did not live within city limits—a stipulated requirement. Commissioners noted inconsistencies between advertised requirements and state documentation needs, with clarification that either an application or resume suffices, though residency must be established. One applicant’s residency was questioned, but their voting status, tax payments, and home ownership were cited as evidence.

 

WELLS called the question to select (1) of the (2) applicants presented for the remaining position on the FSHPRC.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to accept Kathy Dancer as the final applicant.

OLSON, WELLS, SALSBURY and VAN HOECKE voted yes. DANCER abstained.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-0.

 

DANCER requested that in the future, the Commission stick to the requirements that are published.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2025 RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 121 S. MARGRAVE – Tabled from April 15, 2025

KRUGER confirmed that the work has not been completed as agreed upon with the extension. WELLS owns the property and asked for a further extension until February to get the project going in earnest or he will demolish the structure at his expense. KRUGER stated that the structure has been on the Codes list since July 2024 (prior to WELLS ownership).

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to table Resolution No. 9-2025 until February of 2026 with the stipulation that the house will be boarded up, the windows, the entry, anything conducive to an outside intruder getting in. If Codes has any further problems that they feel it is an actual imminent threat, they’ll bring it back to the Commission immediately. SALSBURY seconded.

DANCER, SALSBURY and OLSON voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no. WELLS abstained.

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-1.

 

ACTION:  WELLS will address the safety concerns discussed.

 

New Business

Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Gordon Parks Mural at Main & Wall (Wilder House Building) Approved by Design Review Board – SHARP presented the mural project funded by the Kansas Arts Commission, to be installed on the north side of the Sunshine Boutique featuring Gordon Parks on a horse with a quote about Fort Scott. Created by artist Cbabi Bayoc. FRENCH informed the Commission that the mural was approved by SHPO, it will be installed on panels attached in the mortar and unveiled on October 4th during the Gordon Parks Celebration, with Commissioner Wells and Chase Halsey helping with installation.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Gordon Parks mural at Main St. and Wall St. on the Wilder House Building that was approved by the Design Review Board. DANCER seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes.  WELLS abstained.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-0.

 

Consideration of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive Package 2026

DILLON presented the Developer Partnership Incentive Program, offering up to $7,500 per home for utilities and sidewalks, performance-based payments upon home completion and sale, and a limit of five homes per developer annually. The program includes a $1,000 neighborhood bonus for targeted areas, marketing support, land bank partnerships, a nine-month construction timeline with a three-month extension possible, and a $50,000 annual cap was the proposal. The money for this will come from Economic Development fund.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the 2026 City of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive package as presented. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Sales Tax Ballot Question

MATKIN stated that five options were available for consideration. WELLS presented Option #6 which would be (3) separate ballot questions: 0.45% for streets, 0.1% for parks and 0.1% for public safety. Separating them out would equal .65% if all passed. Further discussion was had on all options.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to accept option one which is the 80/10/10 on the ½ cent sales tax. OLSON seconded. OLSON, DANCER, VAN HOECKE and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

 

Discussion with Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc.

WELLS requested that Earles Engineering appear before the Commission. Pete Earles addressed the Commission. WELLS praised Earles Engineering for its work on the wastewater projects but raised concerns with street projects, particularly the overlay project where the contractor failed to follow the original two-lift plan, leading to drainage issues and insufficient oversight. Questions were raised about the roles of the firm’s representatives and City staff, with Commissioners noting disappointment that an inexperienced supervisor was assigned to the Horton Street project, the City’s largest road project, which resulted in errors. In response, Earle’s Engineering pledged to assign only highly experienced personnel moving forward, naming inspectors with 30–40 years of experience, and committed to addressing concerns directly.

 

Consideration to rescind the Frame Grant Infrastructure approval

MOTION:  OLSON moved to rescind the FRAME Grant Project at 4th and Arthur and the extended infrastructure projects that were accompanying it. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project Update

– Davis Lift Station – Force Main – Bid coming

– CCLIP bid – Advertise in September, open in November to begin early spring

– Discussion of E. National as option for overpass

 

CITY ATTORNEY – Positive comments by visitors about noticeable progress in Fort Scott

 

CITY MANAGER

–  No comments

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

–  3rd Street traffic light

– Lights at skate park

– Chip Seal Project remedies

 

ACTION:  City Clerk will put Chip Seal Project remedies on September 2, 2025, Agenda

 

– Moody Building status

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

–  Reminder for school traffic safety

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

–  ADM update from 4/15/2025 handouts on website

–  WELLS requested update numbers for ADM to be posted

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY

–  Feral cats update

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

–  City events

–  Water main break

–  Awareness with school in session

–  Get involved and support local businesses and activities.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager and the City Attorney in the City Manager’s office. The open meeting will resume in Commission Room at 8:40PM. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTIONVAN HOECKE moved to come out Executive Session with action.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTIONOLSON moved that the Commission provides the City Manager permission to negotiate with the County, in good faith, the exchanging of the 9-1-1 services and should an agreement not be reached, the City Manager has permission, by January 1, 2026, to terminate our services provided by the City for 9-1-1. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

           

Adjourn

MOTION:  DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:43PM. OLSON seconded.

 

AUGUST 19, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:43PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chamber Coffee Is Hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church on August 21

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

Trinity Lutheran Church

Thursday, August 21st

8am

2824 S. Horton St.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church, 2824 S. Horton St., this Thursday, August 21st, at 8am. Coffee, juice, and refreshments will be served, and attendees may register to win a special drawing.

Trinity Lutheran Church, a dedicated congregation of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS), has faithfully served the Fort Scott community since 1863. Since 1989, the congregation has gathered at 2824 S. Horton St., providing a welcoming place for worship and fellowship.

Committed to nurturing families and faith, Trinity supports Precious Lambs Preschool, a Christ-centered early education ministry that celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2024

For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

Click HERE to visit the

Trinity Lutheran Church Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

Precious Lambs Preschool Facebook Page!

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

GriefShare Begins August 26 at Community Christian Church

“Classes begin Tuesday evening at Community Christian Church Use the southeast side door. Classes will run from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for 13 weeks beginning August 26th,” said a spokesman, Jon Bailes. “Everyone is welcome and there is no charge except for a workbook.”

“This is a Biblically based program that has been operating with great success at helping people who have lost a loved one.”

Community Christian Church is hosting, but is not responsible.

Submitted graphics.

PEO Trivia Benefit for women’s education on Sept. 6

Sending on behalf of Chamber member

 A Fun Night for a Great Cause!

Join us for A Night of Trivia to benefit women’s education through P.E.O. scholarships and grants!

P.E.O. Trivia Night

Saturday September 6th

5-8pm

Liberty Theatre

113 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS

$230/team(6 players)$40/individual

Dinner included!

Questions will be general knowledge. Categories will be revealed at the beginning of each round.

Expect laughter, friendly competition, a taco bar dinner, cash bar, raffles, and a $200 prize for the winning team.

Register by August 30th HERE!

 Questions? Call 417-214-1334 or Email [email protected]

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

Stamp Club Meets Sept. 13 at Fort Scott Libary

A meeting to form and formalize a stamp club will take place at the Fort Scott Library , 201 S. National, on Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The challenge this month is to locate and or display your favorite foreign stamp.  The meeting allows discussion of  the bylaws and membership in the club.  Free, previously used, postage stamps will be available for all persons wishing to start or continue a collection.  There is no charge for attendance and a special membership drive will waive the first year dues.  Dues cover only the operating costs of the club.

 

 

Fort Scott Public Library Lower Floor Conference Room 201 S National Ave., Fort Scott, KS 66701

RSVP to [email protected]

 

Agenda For the FS City Commission on August 19

    NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

August 19, 2025  –  6:00 P.M.

 

 

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1390-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of July 23, 2025 – August 12, 2025$662,802.14
  4. Approval of Minutes: Special Meeting of July 30, 2025; Special Meeting of August 4, 2025; and Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025.
  5. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18159 – 21-303 – Davis Lift Station – Addendum No. 4 ($11,600.00) and Addendum No. 5 ($18,600.00) – Total $30,3200.00
  6. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18141 – EEI No. 25-12 – East National Project Phase I – Survey 100% ($6,400.00) and Preliminary Design 12.5% ($12,937.50)Total $19,337.50
  7. Request to Pay – Cardinal Sitework – Application for Payment No. 2 (FINAL) – Charles Street Lift Station EEI No. 24-003B$3,587.45
  8. July Financials

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Rachel Carpenter – Tourism Report
  2. Thomas Metcalf Jr. – 3rd Annual Sons of American Legion Car Show – August 30, 2025 – Request for Temporary Street Closure – National Ave. between Oak St. and Pine St.

 

VIII.   Unfinished Business

Public Hearing:

  1. Planning Commission Case No. 1052 – Conditional Use Permit – 2400 S. Main – Amazon Storage Unit – Recommended by Planning Commission on July 9, 2025 – Tabled from August 5, 2025
  2. Vacation of Alley – Lewis Nihiser Revisit requested by City Commission

 

Action Items:

  1. A. Consideration of Appointment of (1) Member for FSHPRCTabled from August 5,

2025  – L. Dillon

 

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2025 RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 121 S. MARGRAVE – Tabled from April 15, 2025

 

  1. New Business
  2. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Gordon Parks Mural at Main & Wall (Wilder House Building) – Approved by Design Review Board – L. Dillon
  1. Consideration of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive Package 2026 – L. Dillon
  2. Consideration of Sales Tax Ballot Question – B. Matkin
  3. Discussion with Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Requested by M. Wells

 

  1. Reports and Comments
  2. Adjourn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jumpy Jump Land Expands to Fort Scott-Opens August 15

Jumpy Jump Land, the Wichita area’s top indoor bounce-house party spot, is excited to announce the grand opening of its fifth location in Fort Scott on August 15. Known for its vibrant, safe, and energetic indoor play spaces filled with colorful obstacle courses, tall slides, and multiple bounce houses, Jumpy Jump Land has quickly become a beloved destination for families seeking unforgettable fun.

Founded in 2015 in Andover, Kansas, Jumpy Jump Land has grown to serve communities in Andover, Bel Aire, Haysville, and El Dorado, with Fort Scott marking the latest expansion. Owned and operated by JUMPY JUMP LAND, LLC, the brand is dedicated to providing a clean, safe, and stress-free environment where families can jump, play, and celebrate milestones – from birthdays and reunions to corporate events.

Fort Scott Grand Opening Weekend Details:

Dates: August 15–17
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM daily
Location: 2229 S Main St, Fort Scott, KS (inside the Jake’s Fireworks building)

The grand opening weekend will feature FREE Open Jump sessions, exciting games, and fantastic prizes for attendees. Families are invited to drop in, explore the colorful play zones, and join the
festivities. Parties and celebrations can now be booked at jumpyjumpland.com, offering a convenient, fun- filled venue for hosts who want to relax while their kids enjoy hours of energetic play.
For more information, visit jumpyjumpland.com or contact:
Jessica Benford
620.231.2264 ext 11197
[email protected]

Fort Scott Town Wide Garage Sale is Sept. 19-20

FORT SCOTT’S

FALL TOWN-WIDE

GARAGE SALE

SEPTEMBER 20th & 21st

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces the Fall Town-wide Garage Sale will be held September 19th and 20th, 2025.

The Chamber encourages the community to start cleaning out households and garages and saving back unnecessary and unwanted items and hold sales to make some cash.

Sales may be registered with the Chamber and listed on the official garage sale map for only $12.

Those interested may register in person at the Chamber, over the phone by credit, debit or Venmo, or online at fortscott.com. The deadline to register a sale on the official map is

1pm on Tuesday, September 16th.

The Chamber also offers display ads to businesses and organizations on the map for $35.

The Chamber sincerely appreciates sales and ads being registered with the Chamber as those funds make it possible for the Chamber to host the event and cover expenses incurred on the event to bring as many people to the community as possible to shop the sales and patronize other businesses while here.

Contact the Chamber for more information at

620-223-3566 or visit fortscott.com.

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW THE

FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE

CLICK HERE FOR A PRINTABLE COPY OF THE REGISTRATION FORM

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below…

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

USD234 Board Minutes from August 11

Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                        

 
 

Superintendent                                                                                                                                            

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, August 11, 2025

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025, for their regular monthly meeting at 424 S Main.

 

President David Stewart opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:

Board Minutes

07-14-25

Financials – Cash Flow Report

Check Register

Payroll – July 18, 2025 – $1,681,850.38

Activity Funds Accounts

USD 234 Gifts

Resolution 25-08 – Remove Bank Signers

Resolution 25-09 – Add Bank Signers

 

 

Superintendent Destry Brown reported about Open House in the district happening this week. School starts this Friday and KRI will start Monday, August 18.

Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided the Board with an update on the Preschool building and the progress being made in the facility. Also, informing about how each department is preparing for the new school year.

Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on iReady scores. The district is showing growth and an increase in scores. He also informed the Board about New Teacher Orientation and gearing up for the new year.

Special Education Director Tonya Barnes provided a shared document and reported on the beginning of the year starting up. The Special Education audit will be coming up soon.

The Board Approved the following items:

  • 2025-26 High School Handbook
  • Parent Athletics Expectation Policy
  • Audit Contract with Diehl, Banwart, and Bolton, CPA’s, P.A.
  • MOU for IT Services between USD 234 and City of Fort Scott
  • All Weather Track Structural Spray Bid
  • Purchase of Transit Van
  • 2025-26 High School Activity Handbook

There were none present for public forum.

The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.

 

President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED

August 11, 2025

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

 

Chaplin, Mercedes – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Clements, Adam – Supplemental Resignation – Coach – Boy’s Basketball – High School

Coen, Serenity – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Preschool

Emmerson, Lynette – Resignation – Secretary – Middle School

Floyd, Gary – Resignation – ISS Supervisor – High School

Kitsmiller, Natalie – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

 

LEAVE OF ABSENCE:

Pinkerton, Sammie – LOA – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

 

TRANSFER:

Beyers, Amy – Cook (Middle School) to Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Moberg, Katelynn – Paraprofessional – High School to Winfield Scott

 

EMPLOYMENT:

Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:

Ackerman, Melina – Cook – High School

Collins, Ashley – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Coon, Osha – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Dotson, Destiny – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Engstrom, Lauren – Secretary – Middle School

Esslinger, Danae – Paraprofessional – KRI

Feagins, Addison – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Heckman, Opal – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

Hoener, Rhonda – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Reinbolt, Katren – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

Strakal, Eileen – Cook – High School

Tucker, Sandy – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Waala, Emily – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

Walker, Jessica – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

 

Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:

 

Aikin, Kent – Head Softball Coach – High School

Altic, Abby – Supplemental – Assistant Volleyball Coach – High School

Carney, Drew – Supplemental – Powerlifting – High School

EW PBIS Committee

Hall, Dakota – Supplemental – Head Wrestling Coach – Middle School

Woods, Nick – Assistant Track Coach – High School