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City of FS Agenda Packet for July 15

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

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

July 15, 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 1388-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of June 25, 2025 – July, 2025 – $468,044.55
  4. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of July 1, 2025; Special Meeting of July 1, 2025; and Special Meeting of July 2, 2025.
  5. June Financials
  6. Request to Pay Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – EEI Project No. 25-12 – East National Phase I – Survey 60% – $9,600.00

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Justin Miles – Mini Golf Proposal

 

VIII.   Unfinished Business

  1. Cape Seal Payment Discussion

 

  1. New Business

            Public Hearing:

  1. Petitioner Lewis Nihiser – 761 S. Garrison – Requesting the Vacation of (16) feet x (600) feet of Goodlander Street. Petitioner did not attend June 3, 2025, and request was denied. Nihiser wishes to petition again.

 

            Action Items:

  1. Consideration of Notice to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR) – Hart
  2. Consideration to Purchase (1) 20 HP Aerator and (1) 15 HP Mixer for holding basins – WWTP – S. Flater
  3. Consideration to 2017 Chevrolet 250/HD Pickup Truck – WWTP – S. Flater
  4. Consideration of Bids for Davis Lift Station Pump #2 – S. Flater
  5. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Solar Panels & Maintenance – 123 N. National – Divine Properties – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
  6. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Sign – 108 Scott Ave. – Bids & Dibs – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
  7. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Sign – 12 S. Main – Kitchen Collective & Collaborative – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
  8. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Sign – 10 N. Main – Papa Don’s – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon

 

  1. Reports and Comments
  2. Adjourn

 

 

 Unapproved minutes

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of July 1, 2025                                                              Special Meeting

 

A special 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 5:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer, Matthew Wells, and Dyllon Olson were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, and Lisa Lewis/City Clerk.

 

VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

New Business

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Sessions 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, the City Attorney (if he arrives) and the City IT Contract person. The meeting will be in the City Manager’s office. The open meeting will resume at 5:55PM in the Commission Room.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to come out of Executive Session. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:55PM. OLSON seconded.

 

JULY 1, 2025, SPECIAL MEETING ADJOURNED AT 5:55PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Unapproved minutes

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of July 1, 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, Matthew Wells, and Dyllon Olson were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Ronnette Center, Travis Sawyer, Jennifer Sawyer, and Michael Hoyt.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  OLSON moved to amend the agenda to include a request for a Temporary Street Closure under New Business as Item A.  WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1387-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of June 11, 2025 – June 24, 2025 – $489,151.22

– Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of June 17, 2025.

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

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Public Comment – No comments.

 

Appearances

Ronette Center addressed the Commission to request that they adopt a resolution for the Kansas Empowerment Program; formerly known as The Pride Program. The program is through K State Research and Extension. The City first enrolled in 1971, and a resolution must be on file stating that the program is operating within the City.

 

MOTION: WELLS moved to adopt Resolution No. 12-2025 Kansas Community Empowerment Program. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS requested that Resolution No. 12-2025 be read in its entirety.

RESOLUTION NO. 12-2025 – KANSAS COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

2025 ENTRY GOVERNMENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the local municipal government has a responsibility to develop the capacity to undertake a viable community development effort; and WHEREAS, community development needs and problems can best be determined and solved through a cooperative effort between elected officials and those citizens they represent; and; WHEREAS, the Kansas Community Empowerment program (formerly Kansas PRIDE), co-administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and K-State Research and Extension, has been reviewed and found to be a means to improve our community, and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Commission do herewith pledge their full support, endorsement, and cooperation in carrying out the requirement of the Kansas Community Empowerment program. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the community of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas, urges its citizens to join this effort and hereby declares this city to be an official entrant in the KCE Program. This resolution shall be valid for a period of three (3) program years, 2025 through 2028. PASSED AND APPROVED THIS 1st  DAY OF JULY IN THE YEAR OF 2025.

 

Unfinished Business

Consideration to Approve Certificate of Appropriateness – 24 N. Main St. – La Hacienda – Front Door – Approved by SHPO June 12, 2025, and Recommended by Design Review Board June 20, 2025.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the rest of the work at La Hacienda. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration to Amend Ordinance No. 3782 – AN ORDINANCE FOR THE PURPOSE OF ESTABLISHING THE FORT SCOTT HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND RESOURCE COMMISSION TO THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS – Approved June 17, 2025 – DILLON addressed issues to the approved ordinance that she thought needed clarification regarding interior modifications, a fee for a Certificate of Appropriateness and enforcement with the inclusion of a hardship exception.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to amend the per day to per week, add the economic hardship exception as written, under Item G add the Ex Officio number 3 representative of The Friends of the Fort, and under Article IV strike that the City of Fort Scott is exempt. DANCER seconded.

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Discussion of CLG Process (next steps) – DILLON stated that an application has been made available for those who wish to be considered for commission board to be developed for the CLG. Applications will be accepted until July 31st and those will be brought before the City Commission to develop the board. Once the board is appointed, the City’s application to become a CLG will be submitted to the state for approval. It requires approval from SHPO and from the Secretary of the Interior.

 

Consideration to Approve Purchase of Playground Surface for Nelson Park – $36,000.00 – Recommended by Parks Advisory Board on June 12, 2025 – MATKIN stated this was a priority developed by the Parks Advisory Board. It will be used at Nelson Park and some at Gunn Park. Three (3) bids were submitted, and the lowest bid is from EcoTurf Playgrounds. It will be 4” surface installed over the asphalt subbase. The price is $36,725.00 and will come from the Parks Sales Tax Fund.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the purchase of the playground surface for Nelson Park for $36,000.00. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration to Approve Revised Employee Handbook and Adopt Ordinance No. 3783 – AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3533, ADOPTING EMPLOYEE MANUAL – Tabled from June 17, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the existing Employee Handbook as submitted to the Commission prior to the June 17th meeting. DANCER seconded. DANCER, VAN HOECKE, OLSON and WELLS voted yes. SALSBURY voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

New Business

Action Items:

Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Heylman from 6th to 7th – July 4, 2025 – 3:30PM – 11:00PM.

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the temporary street closure of Heylman from 6th to 7th on July 4th from 3:30pm to 11:00pm as presented. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Approval for City Manager to Sign Airport Taxiway KDOT Grant Documents for Project No. AV-2026-16 – Agreement No. 455-25

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve MATKIN the authority to sign it. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Coates Street from Elm to Mulberry – July 4, 2025 – 10:00AM – Midnight. – MATKIN stated that he contacted the applicant to inform him that the City will provide cones and not barricades as requested.

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the closure of the street between Elm and Mulberry, July 4th from 10:00am to midnight. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS left the meeting 6:46PM.

 

MATKIN requested that the Commission remain aware that when several closures are requested Public Safety access concerns need to be considered. Early application submissions are encouraged.

 

WELLS returned to the meeting 6:47PM.

 

MATKIN left the meeting 6:47PM.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 14-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 18 S. HOLBROOK – Public Hearing Date of August 19, 2025.

 

VAN HOECKE confirmed with KRUGER that this was to notify the homeowner of the Public Hearing scheduled on August 19th with approval by the Commission.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 14-2025 a resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 18 S. Holbrook – public hearing date of August 19, 2025. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 15-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 402 N. SHUTE – Public Hearing Date of August 19, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 15-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 402 N. Shute – public hearing date of August 19, 2025. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consideration of Resolution No. 16-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 205 LINCOLN – Public Hearing Date of August 19, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 16-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 205 Lincoln – public hearing date of August 19, 2025.

 

MATKIN returned to meeting 6:50PM.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS suggested the following (3) public hearings be moved to September 2, 2025.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 17-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 102 N. BARBEE – Public Hearing Date of September 2, 2025.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 17-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 102 N. Barbee – public hearing date of September 2, 2025. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 18-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 602 S. BARBEE – Public Hearing Date of September 2, 2025.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 18-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 602 S. Barbee – public hearing date of September 2, 2025. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 19-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 CLARK – Public Hearing Date of September 2, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 19-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 505 Clark – public hearing date of September 2, 2025. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

 

 

Reports and Comments      

CITY ATTORNEY – FSHS All Class Reunion comments.

 

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project update

– Comments following WELLS question regarding action options when specs of a project are not followed and contract violations.

 

CITY MANAGER

– July 5 at FSCC – Red, White & ‘Que schedule

– Reunion comments

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY

– Reunion comments

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

– Franchise agreement update

– Skubitz Plaza work plan update

– Reunion comments

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

– Regards to city staff

– Safe 4th of July

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

– Thanks to all who made the reunion happen

– Safe and happy 4th of July

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

– Reunion comments, thanks to city staff, first responders and Rhonda Dunn/Chairman of Alumni Association.

– 4th of July safety and thanks to military especially overseas

 

Executive Session

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for discussion pursuant to the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property exception in K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(6). In the meeting there will be the (5) Commissioner, the City Manager and the City Attorney in the City Manager’s office. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:14PM. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to come out of Executive Session with action. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to give the City Manager the authority to negotiate the purchase of a piece of land in the downtown district, not to exceed $15,000.00. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  OLSON moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:16PM. DANCER seconded.

 

JULY 1, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:16PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

Unapproved minutes

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of July 1, 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, Matthew Wells, and Dyllon Olson were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Ronnette Center, Travis Sawyer, Jennifer Sawyer, and Michael Hoyt.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  OLSON moved to amend the agenda to include a request for a Temporary Street Closure under New Business as Item A.  WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1387-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of June 11, 2025 – June 24, 2025 – $489,151.22

– Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of June 17, 2025.

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

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Public Comment – No comments.

 

Appearances

Ronette Center addressed the Commission to request that they adopt a resolution for the Kansas Empowerment Program; formerly known as The Pride Program. The program is through K State Research and Extension. The City first enrolled in 1971, and a resolution must be on file stating that the program is operating within the City.

 

MOTION: WELLS moved to adopt Resolution No. 12-2025 Kansas Community Empowerment Program. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS requested that Resolution No. 12-2025 be read in its entirety.

RESOLUTION NO. 12-2025 – KANSAS COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

2025 ENTRY GOVERNMENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the local municipal government has a responsibility to develop the capacity to undertake a viable community development effort; and WHEREAS, community development needs and problems can best be determined and solved through a cooperative effort between elected officials and those citizens they represent; and; WHEREAS, the Kansas Community Empowerment program (formerly Kansas PRIDE), co-administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and K-State Research and Extension, has been reviewed and found to be a means to improve our community, and WHEREAS, the Mayor and Commission do herewith pledge their full support, endorsement, and cooperation in carrying out the requirement of the Kansas Community Empowerment program. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the community of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas, urges its citizens to join this effort and hereby declares this city to be an official entrant in the KCE Program. This resolution shall be valid for a period of three (3) program years, 2025 through 2028. PASSED AND APPROVED THIS 1st  DAY OF JULY IN THE YEAR OF 2025.

 

Unfinished Business

Consideration to Approve Certificate of Appropriateness – 24 N. Main St. – La Hacienda – Front Door – Approved by SHPO June 12, 2025, and Recommended by Design Review Board June 20, 2025.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the rest of the work at La Hacienda. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration to Amend Ordinance No. 3782 – AN ORDINANCE FOR THE PURPOSE OF ESTABLISHING THE FORT SCOTT HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND RESOURCE COMMISSION TO THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS – Approved June 17, 2025 – DILLON addressed issues to the approved ordinance that she thought needed clarification regarding interior modifications, a fee for a Certificate of Appropriateness and enforcement with the inclusion of a hardship exception.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to amend the per day to per week, add the economic hardship exception as written, under Item G add the Ex Officio number 3 representative of The Friends of the Fort, and under Article IV strike that the City of Fort Scott is exempt. DANCER seconded.

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Discussion of CLG Process (next steps) – DILLON stated that an application has been made available for those who wish to be considered for commission board to be developed for the CLG. Applications will be accepted until July 31st and those will be brought before the City Commission to develop the board. Once the board is appointed, the City’s application to become a CLG will be submitted to the state for approval. It requires approval from SHPO and from the Secretary of the Interior.

 

Consideration to Approve Purchase of Playground Surface for Nelson Park – $36,000.00 – Recommended by Parks Advisory Board on June 12, 2025 – MATKIN stated this was a priority developed by the Parks Advisory Board. It will be used at Nelson Park and some at Gunn Park. Three (3) bids were submitted, and the lowest bid is from EcoTurf Playgrounds. It will be 4” surface installed over the asphalt subbase. The price is $36,725.00 and will come from the Parks Sales Tax Fund.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the purchase of the playground surface for Nelson Park for $36,000.00. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration to Approve Revised Employee Handbook and Adopt Ordinance No. 3783 – AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3533, ADOPTING EMPLOYEE MANUAL – Tabled from June 17, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the existing Employee Handbook as submitted to the Commission prior to the June 17th meeting. DANCER seconded. DANCER, VAN HOECKE, OLSON and WELLS voted yes. SALSBURY voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

New Business

Action Items:

Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Heylman from 6th to 7th – July 4, 2025 – 3:30PM – 11:00PM.

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the temporary street closure of Heylman from 6th to 7th on July 4th from 3:30pm to 11:00pm as presented. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Approval for City Manager to Sign Airport Taxiway KDOT Grant Documents for Project No. AV-2026-16 – Agreement No. 455-25

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve MATKIN the authority to sign it. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Coates Street from Elm to Mulberry – July 4, 2025 – 10:00AM – Midnight. – MATKIN stated that he contacted the applicant to inform him that the City will provide cones and not barricades as requested.

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the closure of the street between Elm and Mulberry, July 4th from 10:00am to midnight. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS left the meeting 6:46PM.

 

MATKIN requested that the Commission remain aware that when several closures are requested Public Safety access concerns need to be considered. Early application submissions are encouraged.

 

WELLS returned to the meeting 6:47PM.

 

MATKIN left the meeting 6:47PM.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 14-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 18 S. HOLBROOK – Public Hearing Date of August 19, 2025.

 

VAN HOECKE confirmed with KRUGER that this was to notify the homeowner of the Public Hearing scheduled on August 19th with approval by the Commission.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 14-2025 a resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 18 S. Holbrook – public hearing date of August 19, 2025. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 15-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 402 N. SHUTE – Public Hearing Date of August 19, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 15-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 402 N. Shute – public hearing date of August 19, 2025. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consideration of Resolution No. 16-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 205 LINCOLN – Public Hearing Date of August 19, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 16-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 205 Lincoln – public hearing date of August 19, 2025.

 

MATKIN returned to meeting 6:50PM.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS suggested the following (3) public hearings be moved to September 2, 2025.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 17-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 102 N. BARBEE – Public Hearing Date of September 2, 2025.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 17-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 102 N. Barbee – public hearing date of September 2, 2025. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 18-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 602 S. BARBEE – Public Hearing Date of September 2, 2025.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 18-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 602 S. Barbee – public hearing date of September 2, 2025. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 19-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED USAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 CLARK – Public Hearing Date of September 2, 2025.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 19-2025 – resolution and notice of hearing with reference to alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 505 Clark – public hearing date of September 2, 2025. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

 

 

Reports and Comments      

CITY ATTORNEY – FSHS All Class Reunion comments.

 

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project update

– Comments following WELLS question regarding action options when specs of a project are not followed and contract violations.

 

CITY MANAGER

– July 5 at FSCC – Red, White & ‘Que schedule

– Reunion comments

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY

– Reunion comments

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

– Franchise agreement update

– Skubitz Plaza work plan update

– Reunion comments

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

– Regards to city staff

– Safe 4th of July

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

– Thanks to all who made the reunion happen

– Safe and happy 4th of July

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

– Reunion comments, thanks to city staff, first responders and Rhonda Dunn/Chairman of Alumni Association.

– 4th of July safety and thanks to military especially overseas

 

Executive Session

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for discussion pursuant to the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property exception in K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(6). In the meeting there will be the (5) Commissioner, the City Manager and the City Attorney in the City Manager’s office. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:14PM. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to come out of Executive Session with action. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to give the City Manager the authority to negotiate the purchase of a piece of land in the downtown district, not to exceed $15,000.00. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  OLSON moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:16PM. DANCER seconded.

 

JULY 1, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:16PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fort Scott, Schools, Sports, Youth

FSHS Senior Ali Simhiser Is Competing At The Junior National Wrestling Championship

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Ali Simhiser. Submitted photo.

Ali Simhiser, who will be a senior at Fort Scott High School this fall,  is the only female Fort Scott wrestler to be invited to the 2025 U.S. Marine Corps Junior National Women’s Freestyle Wrestling Championship, held  July 10-19 in Fargo, ND.

The event is at the Fargo Dome and men’s wrestling Freestyle and Greco-Roman athletes will also compete.

“It’s the largest in the world and a pretty big deal to be invited,” said her Aunt Stephannie Erie,  who submitted the information. “She is the first female from First Scott to attend. She is also ranked 2nd in her weight class of 190lbs in the state for 4A.”

“She is a two-time state qualifier, placing 3rd at state, winning a Southeast Kansas League Championship, and reaching a huge milestone—100 career wins and pins as a junior.”

Ali Simhiser, top position, wrestles with a competitor. Submitted photo.
Ali is pictured in a contest with another wrestler. Submitted photo.

 

This Kansas Female Wrestling Team is representing the state in different divisions at 2025 U.S. Marine Corps Junior National Championship in Fargo, N.D.. This photo was posted on the Columbus High School Wrestling Team Facebook page and was submitted.

Alvin Metcalf is the head wrestling coach at Fort Scott High School.

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Agenda for USD234 for July 14

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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

July 14, 2025 – 5:30 P.M.

AGENDA SUMMARY WITH COMMENTARY

1.0       Call Meeting to Order                                                                      David Stewart, President

2.0       Flag Salute

3.0       Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)

4.0       Reorganization of New Board (Action)

5.0       Financial Audit Review

6.0       Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)

            6.1       Board Minutes

            06-09-2025

            06-13-2025

            6.2       Financials – Cash Flow Report

            6.3       Check Register

            6.4       Payroll – June 20, 2025 – $2,017,520.07

6.5       Activity Funds Accounts

6.6       USD 234 Gifts

6.7       June KASB Policy Updates

6.8       Extended Trips 2025-26

6.9       Fundraising Applications 2025-26

6.10     Resolution 25-01 Destructions of Records

6.11     Resolution 25-02 Waiver of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles

6.12     Resolution 25-03 Rescinding Policy Statements found in Board Minutes

6.13     Resolution 25-04 Establish Home Rule by Board of Education

6.14     Designation of Banks for deposit of school funds

6.15     Set fees for copying records

6.16     Mileage reimbursement – current state mileage rate

6.17     2025-26 School Fees

6.18     Recreation Commission Board Member Term

6.19     Designation of newspaper for official school publications

6.20     Offices for the 2025-26 School Year

            6.21     Resolution 25-05 KMIP Signers

7.0       Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)

8.0       New Business

8.1       2025-26 District Handbooks (Action)

 

8.2       2025-26 Emergency Operations Procedures (Action)

8.3       Set Dates for Budget Presentation, Revenue Neutral Hearing and Budget Hearing (Action)

8.4       Revenue Neutral Declaration to the Bourbon County Clerk (Action)

            Resolution 25-06

8.5       Resolution 25-07 Supplemental General Budget Percentage (Action)

8.6       iReady Subscription Renewal (Action)

8.7       Edgenuity License Renewal (Action)

8.8       2025-26 KASB Workers’ Compensation Renewal (Action)

8.9       Preschool Gym Heater Bids (Action)

8.10     Eugene Ware & Winfield Scott Rooftop Unit Replacement (Action)

 

9.0       Public Forum

10.0     Other Business – Personnel Matters – Time __________

 

11.0     Adjourn Meeting _____ (Time)            David Stewart, President

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott July 10 Edition

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott! July 10th Weekly Newsletter

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

*Summer Reading June 3rd – July 29th!

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.

Par Tee Girl Ladies’ Golf League –

Every Wednesday thru July!

League Fee: $40

Contact:

Diane Striler at [email protected] or 248-568-7790

Click HERE for the Facebook Group Page!

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!

Fort Scott Aquatic Center

Opens Memorial Day, May 26th

Monday – Saturday

Public Swim: 1-5:15pm

Adult/Family Swim :5:30-7pm

*Lifeguard Breaks: 3pm & 5:15pm

Sunday

Public Swim: 1-6pm

Adult/Family Swim: 4:45-6pm

*Lifeguard Breaks: 3 & 4:30pm

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

Lavender Patch Farm Saturdays!

9am-1pm

2376 Locust Rd. Fort Scott, KS

Click HERE for their website

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

UPCOMING EVENTS

GOLF CART RAFFLE – donated by

Bourbon County Cars

Proceeds benefit:

Kiwanis Youth Scholarships & Care to Share

2011 Yamaha 48V Electric Golf Cart

Tickets: $20 each or 10 for $100

Tickets can be purchased at Bourbon County Cars

via Venmo by texting Josh Jones 620-215-3680

or by clicking HERE!

Drawing will be held July 12th at the

Care to Share Golf Tournament!

6/2-7/17 ~ 9:15am-10am | Freedom Fitness KidFit Summer 7-week Session

Mon-Thurs.(4 days a week)

Skill/Sport-specific training

Limited spots available

$110 due on the first day

July 8th-19th

Bourbon County Fair

**SEE SCHEDULE BELOW or CLICK HERE to view the Bourbon County Fair Book!

7/11-12 ~ Let’s Flamingle Shopping Event! 🦩

🚗 Grab your flock and come shop at participating stores Downtown & Around, Fort Scott!

⏰ Early bird gets the worm & deals! 🪱🛍️

🎟️ Shop $5+ in at least THREE stores for a chance to win $50 Chamber Bucks!

📍 Look for the bright pink flamingos out front! 🦩 Downtown & Around Fort Scott, KS

🍧 Tiger Ice

will be set up at 1st & Main St.

Friday & Saturday from 11am – 8pm

🍦OffShore Tropix

will be set up in Bids & Dibs Parking lot,121 E. Second St., Saturday from 10am-4pm

Participating Stores:

🦩110 South Main Mercantile

🦩Angie Dawn’s Boutique

🦩Barbed Wire and Roses Vintage Market

🦩Be The Light Boutique

🦩Bids and Dibs

🦩Care To Share Gift Shop

🦩Common Ground Coffee Co.

🦩The Iron Star

🦩Laree + Co.

🦩Main Street Vintage & Co.

🦩 Museum of Creativity

🦩Shirt Shack

🦩Sunshine Boutique

7/11-13th The Fort Scott Baseball Series is HERE!

Joplin Outlaws vs. Texarkana Rhinos

at the Laroche Baseball Complex.

 

Friday, July 11 – 7:05 PM

*Postgame fireworks show

*Announcement of the official name of Fort Scott’s new baseball team coming in 2026!

Saturday, July 12 – 6:05 PM

*LIVE music after the game from

Steven Bankey & The Flatland Band

Sunday, July 13 – Doubleheader starts at 4:05 PM

*Game 1 kicks off at 4:05

*Between games celebration of the 2024 Kansas State Champion Fort Scott High School Tiger Baseball Team!

Get your tickets now:

Individual Games: Click HERE

Full Weekend Pass: Click HERE

 

7/11 ~ 5:30pm | Care to Share Horse Race

Woodland Hills Golf Course

7/11 ~ 7-8pm | Friday Night Concerts In The Park

This weeks concert with Judy & Larry Snow

Heritage Park Pavilion, 1st & Main St.

7/12 ~ 2nd Annual Care to Share Golf Tournament

Woodland Hills Golf Course

7/12 ~ Battle Tactical Pistol Course

7/12 ~ Kansas Rocks Newbie Women Wheelers Basic Recovery Course

7/12 ~ 8am | Bourbon Co. Fair Dog Show

Show Arena @ the BBCO Fairgrounds

7/12 ~ 10am-13:30pm | Fort Scott Stamp Club

Meet at Public Library (Lower Floor Conf. Room)

201 S. National Ave.

7/12 ~ 11am-2pm | Paint & Pizza at Papa Don’s

10 N. Main St.

$30/ includes paint supplies

Click HERE for more details on their

Facebook Event Page!

7/14 ~ | Farmer’s Market Vouchers are in at the FS Chamber of Commerce

Come in & fill out your application

7/14-17 ~ | FSHS Tiger Basketball Camp

2nd-5th grade 1-2:30 pm

6th-8th grade 2:30-4pm

at Buck Run Community Center

7/16 ~ 10am | The Golden Aces Senior Group at the Fort Scott Public Library

Friendship watercolor Cards

7/17 ~ 8am | Chamber Coffee hosted by the Bourbon County Fair Association

7/17 ~ 4-7pm | Nevada’s Pizza Hut Pop Up in Fort Scott at G&W Foods parking lot

$11 Large Pizzas

*Accept Cash, Card, & more!

7/17 ~ 5:30-7pm | FS FFA Fried Chicken Dinner Fundraiser w/ Chicken Annie’s Chicken

Bourbon County Fair Grounds – 4H Building

$12/meal ticket

Menu includes:

2pc Fried Chicken

German Coleslaw

Mashed Potatoes & Gravy

Green Beans

Bread & Butter

Lemonade/Tea/Water

7/17 ~ 6-8pm | Paint with Katie Margarita Time

$45

Click HERE to register!

7/17 ~ 8pm | Bourbon County Draft Horse Pull

$5 gate fee

7/18 ~ 8am | AVAIL Golf Outing

Woodland Hills Golf Course

7/18 ~ 9am-1pm | Bourbon County Fair Field Trip

BBCO Fairgrounds

Take a field trip to the Bourbon County Fair. Activities provided by area Services in the Merchant’s Building, watch some of the Southwind Canine Club run their agility course, Touch the Truck, and more.

7/18 ~ 7-8pm | Friday Night

Concerts in the Park

Heritage Park Pavilion – 1st & Main St.

Downtown Fort Scott

7/19 ~ | Kansas Rocks

Summer Off-Road 101 Course

7/19 ~ | Sharky’s Fort Scott BYOP

(Bring Your Own Pool)

$25 per pool / $5 per person

% of Proceeds going to KVDS

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.
…
Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Federal Funding Freeze Will Affect USD 234

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All American schools, including local schools, will be impacted by the funding freeze that President Trump has directed the U.S. Department of Education to delay, pending a review.

Destry Brown, superintendent of USD 234, Fort Scott’s school district, wrote the following about how the funding freeze will affect his district.

Destry Brown. Submitted photo.

 

“The federal funding freeze has affected two of our Title funds.

“The first is Title IIA. This money is used for professional development for our teachers and administrators. Title IIA provides $120,000 toward professional development. This accounts for 90% of our professional development budget. The impact of withholding that funding is that we will not be able to send staff for professional development. The State no longer provides funds to be specifically used for professional development any longer. As we prepare our budget for this school year, we do not expect to be able to fill this gap in funding.

“The other fund that is impacted is Title IV. This fund provides funding for innovative programs that enhance Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math programs in the district,  to provide more hands-on, interactive learning activities for our students. Title IV provides $38,000 to the district for these activities. The loss in funding will impact our ability to provide some of these updates and enhancements. Any updates will be funded through our regular supply and equipment accounts for each building.

“Currently, the State (of Kansas government) has advised us to budget as if we will receive the funds and spend as if we will not. The State expects to hear more about this funding later this month. Our understanding is that the money is being held while the US Department of Education evaluates these two programs.”

To contact your elected representatives with your views on this matter, according to the Bourbon County, KS website:

US Senator


Roger Marshall – (R)
PO Box 1588
Great Bend, KS 67530
(202) 224-4774

Jerry Moran – (R)
PO Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
(620-232-2286

Derek Schmidt (R)
1223 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC  20515
Phone: (202) 225-6601

 

This graphic is taken from a Newsweek online story dated July 7, 2025.

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Let’s Flamingle Shopping Event Downtown & Around Fort Scott, This Weekend

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

presents

Let’s Flamingle Shopping Event

Downtown & Around Fort Scott, KS!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces the Let’s Flamingle shopping event will be held this Friday and Saturday, July 11th-12th,

Downtown and around.

Businesses in the Downtown Historic District and additional locations will be participating by hiding flamingos inside the stores that can be found for discounts and giveaways.

Shoppers may also pick up a card from any participating store and get it stamped by spending $5 or more in at least three retailers for a chance to win $50 in Chamber Bucks gift certificates.

Offshore Tropix Dole Whip will be set up at Bids & Dibs and Tiger Ice at 1st and Main St., offering cold treats.

Participating retailers include:

    110 South Main Mercantile, 110 S. Main St.

  Angie Dawn’s Boutique, 121 E. Second St.

Barbed Wire & Roses Vintage Market, 18 N Main St.

Be The Light Boutique, 12 N. Main St.

Bids & Dibs, 121 E. Second St.

Care to Share Gift Shop, 9 E. Wall St.

    Common Ground Coffee Co., 12 E. Wall St.

Iron Star Antiques & Such, 3 N. Main St.

Laree + Co., 3 S. National Ave.

Main St. Vintage & Co., 23 S. Main St.

        Museum of Creativity, 102 S. National Ave.

Shirt Shack, 11 E. 18th St.

 Sunshine Boutique, 18 E. Wall St.

Grab your “flock” and get ready to shop local this weekend for the Let’s Flamingle event, Downtown and around in Fort Scott. Organized by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, 620-223-3566, fortscott.com.

Click HERE for the Facebook Event Page!

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 
Fort Scott, Government

Work Continues on the Street Corner at 6th and Main

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FS Public Works Staffer Christian looks on while Kenny Allen works on the Bobcat at 6th and Main Streets.

 

Fort Scott Public Works Department staff were preparing for a concrete pour at the corner of 6th and Main Streets today.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of July, unless other issues are identified.

The project was on the list for work, but water issues at the Neice building, which is being renovated, sped up the timeline.

A staff person said water was pooling in the street corner, which was leaking into the Neice building.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Downtown Meet and Greet is July 8

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Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greet scheduled for July 8th!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces a Downtown Meet & Greet will be held Tuesday, July 8th at Landmark National Bank, 200 S. Main St., from 8-9am.

These informal, quarterly meetings are hosted by the Chamber for downtown business owners, representatives, and community members to network and share ideas on events, promotions and anything related to downtown. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served.

Contact the Chamber at 620-223-3566

with any questions.
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 
Business, Fort Scott

Local Author Levi Qualls Publishes His First Book

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Local author Levi Qualls. Submitted photo.
Local author Levi Qualls, 29, grew up in Baxter Springs and graduated from Pittsburg State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in illustration. While at P.S.U., he met his future wife, Taylor Schilling, and then earned his Master of Fine Arts in comics and storytelling from the Academy of Art, California, through its online program.
He became an author through the encouragement of an acquaintance.
“My first semester of college, my mom’s coworker saw some of my art and said I should be an artist. I wasn’t enjoying my first degree plan (biology), so I made the switch and never looked back.”
“After I earned my master’s degree and was working on the graphic novel of Calder, I realized that I was more interested in the actual story than I was in illustrating it. I have always loved to read, and it just made sense. I love it and it’s fun.”
“I still love drawing, and it was fun to illustrate a cover and chapter illustrations for this book!”
They moved to Fort Scott shortly before their first son was born, and it is here that he wrote most of this, his first book.
The Book
The front cover of Quall’s new book. Submitted photo.
Qualls sent this synopsis of his book: The Sea and The Sword is
 an escape into the world of Aegindus, where the gods of Olympus reign and destiny hangs in the balance. It is packed with fantasy, action, suspense, mythology, and magic. The Sea and The Sword is an adventure for anyone who loves getting lost in a great story.
There is a Parental Advisory with the book because it contains descriptions of battle scenes, but nothing more graphic than video games or even the Bible, he said.
To order the book: https://a.co/d/jbfK20z
Bookmarks that depict each chapter in Quall's book Submitted photo.
A bookmark depicts the different gods of Olympus, but they are also used for chapter headings. (There are a lot more than 12 chapters.) Submitted photo.
 Aside from being a full-time stay-at-home father of two and author, he also runs Hercules Hobby, a local trading card store in downtown Fort Scott.
Fort Scott, Sports

Summer Baseball Series Starts on July 11 at LaRoche Sports Complex

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Fort Scott Franchise Unveils Action-Packed Lineup for
“Summer Baseball Series” at LaRoche Sports Complex
FORT SCOTT, KS — The Fort Scott franchise is proud to announce a full slate of exciting
promotional events and community celebrations for the highly anticipated “Summer Baseball Series”,
taking place July 11–13, 2025, at LaRoche Sports Complex.
The three-day series will feature four games between the Texarkana Rhinos and the Joplin Outlaws,
including a Sunday doubleheader, alongside a variety of special activities that celebrate the spirit of
Fort Scott and the future of baseball in the region.
“SUMMER BASEBALL SERIES” PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE
Friday, July 11 – Team Name Reveal Night
Game Time: 7:05 PM
• The evening kicks off with a ceremonial first pitch by Fort Scott city officials.
• During pregame festivities, the club will unveil the official name and logo of Fort Scott’s new
baseball team and announce the winner of the “Name the Team” contest — who will receive
two season tickets for life.
• Postgame fireworks show presented by the City of Fort Scott.
• Fans can enjoy food trucks, ballpark fare, and family-friendly fun all night long.
Saturday, July 12 – Live Music Saturday
Game Time: 6:05 PM
• Immediately following the game, fans will be treated to a live postgame concert featuring
Steven Bankey and the Flatland Band, known for their high-energy Red Dirt country sound.
• Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a night of baseball and live music under the stars.
Sunday, July 13 – Championship Sunday Doubleheader
Game Times: 4:05 PM & 6:35 PM
• Sunday’s action features a doubleheader between the Rhinos and Outlaws.
• Between games, the club will hold a special recognition ceremony honoring the Fort Scott High
School Baseball Team, 2025 Kansas State Champions.
• Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate local athletic excellence and the next generation
of baseball stars.
VENUE INFO & TICKETS
All games will be held at the LaRoche Sports Complex, 4805 Campbell Drive., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
Local sponsors include Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, Holmtown Pub, Be the Light Boutique and
American Legion Post 25.
Tickets are available online at www.JoplinOutlaws.com.
• Single-Day Tickets: $8 (General Admission), $10 (Home Plate Reserved), $12 (Home Plate
Box)
• Weekend Pass (All 4 Games): $20 (General Admission), $25 (Home Plate Reserved), $30
(Home Plate Box).
Visit: https://ft1.glitnirticketing.com/ftticket/webplan/webplanstadiumg.php?event_id=82
• Children under 5 are FREE (must sit on an adult’s lap).
“We’re proud to bring high-caliber summer baseball and exciting entertainment to Fort Scott,” said
Vice President, Mike Marek of the Fort Scott franchise. “Whether you’re a baseball fan, music lover, or
just looking for a fun weekend with the family, there’s something for everyone at the “Summer
Baseball Series.”
Fort Scott’s new team will play 32 home games starting in May 2026 at the LaRoche Baseball
Complex. The league features top collegiate players alongside post-college players pursuing
professional baseball careers. These athletes include players who were undrafted, unsigned free agents,
or former professionals working to return to affiliated baseball.
The Mid America League currently consists of franchises in: Joplin, MO; Fort Smith, AR; Texarkana,
TX; White Oak/Longview, TX; Sherman, TX; Abilene, TX. The Mid America League is committed to
growing and strengthening baseball in the region.

 

• Families are encouraged to attend and celebrate local athletic excellence and the next generation
of baseball stars.
VENUE INFO & TICKETS
All games will be held at the LaRoche Sports Complex, 4805 Campbell Drive., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
Local sponsors include Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, Holmtown Pub, Be the Light Boutique and
American Legion Post 25.
Tickets are available online at www.JoplinOutlaws.com

Fort Scott, Government

Rock Creek Lake Work Continues For Reopening the Best Fishing Holes

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Brush crowds out the fishing spot in this “before” photo. Submitted photos.
Following the removal of brush around this same fishing spot, it has better accessibility. Submitted photos.
Seth Simpson’s work crew is getting all of the best fishing holes reopened at Rock Creek Lake just in time for the 4th of July weekend.
In the last year, the maintenance of Fort Scott Lake and Rock Creek Lake has come under the airport supervisor.
 “I’m not exactly sure of the exact time that the airport got the maintenance of the lakes,” said Seth Simpson, Fort Scott’s Airport and Lakes Supervisor.  “I was on orders to Germany for a year for the military.  I believe it was about six to nine months ago.” Simpson is in the Missouri National Guard.
 “Our duties at the Fort Scott and Rock Creek lakes include feeding the fish at the rearing pond, mowing, weed eating, trimming trees, maintaining the structures that the city owns, emptying trash cans and picking up loose trash, setting up and taking down the swim ropes, and maintaining the beach area.”
This city crew is cleaning up some former fishing spots that have been covered up with brush.
“We are clearing out brush and grass to open up spots that were previously inaccessible due to overgrowth so that people can walk to the water’s edge and be able to cast a line,” Simpson said. “We will continue to open up more spots around the lake as we have time.”
The submitted photos are before-and-after pictures of areas cleared on June 30, near the entrance just off Jayhawk Road near the bridge.
Another overgrown spot at Rock Creek Lake. Submitted photos.
The same spot after clearing the brush for better lake accessibility. Submitted photo.
To get to Rock Creek, take Jayhawk Road and turn onto 195th Street and go down until you see the parking lot on the west side of the road.
The new fishing spots are on Jayhawk Road and near the bridge with a gravel parking area.

To learn more, the Facebook page is Fort Scott Airport