Category Archives: Fort Scott

FS City Commission Special Meeting Minutes of Feb. 11

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of February 11th, 2021 Special Meeting #4

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held February 11th, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, and Randy Nichols were present with Mayor Josh Jones presiding. Lindsey Watts was absent.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Michael Mix, Chad Brown, and Michael Hoyt.

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration of Waterline Materials Bid – Chad Brown, Public Works Director, informed the Commission that bids were taken to replace the waterline on Cooper Street from 20th to 23rd Street. There were four bids received with the low bid from Schulte Supply of Independence, Missouri in the amount of $21,226.17. The materials are to be delivered by February 26th, 2021.

Discussion was held regarding the fact that this company is out of Missouri and not from Kansas.

More discussion was held regarding if the low bid was rejected, if they would continue to bid in the future.

Chad said that Schulte Supply does supply a lot of our waterline materials and we have ordered from them in the past.

Susan Bancroft said that we can revisit our purchase policy at the next City Commission meeting regarding our policy on accepting bids.

K. Allen moved to approve the low bid from Schulte Supply of Independence, Missouri in the amount of $21,226.17. R. Nichols seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols and J. Jones voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-1.

APPROVED LOW BID FROM SCHULTE SUPPLY OF INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI IN THE AMOUNT OF $21,226.17 FOR WATERLINE MATERIALS ON COOPER STREET.

  1. Consideration of Change Order #1-Sanitary Sewer Cleaning & Video Inspection Services – Michael Mix said that our contract was approved with Pipe Detectives of Jamestown, North Dakota in the amount of $78,215.00 on October 20th, 2020. He believes that Nate Stansberry appeared before the Commission to seek approval of this contract. That was not a grand total amount and the contract was set up with rates. It should have been approved at an amount not to exceed $120,000. The $78,215.00 was an estimate. There is no way to tell how many hours they are going to spend cutting roots out of a line. In addition, when out in the field, there are manholes that are added that weren’t known about. He asked for the full $120,000.00 amount so we can get as much done as possible. The contractor has gone over the $78,215.00 amount now. They are at $89,855.50. This company just checked in with him. He needs to ask for an additional $11,640.50 due to the additional specialty cleaning or approve the not to exceed $120,000.00 amount. Michael pointed out at the bottom of the bid sheet, it stated that “all quantities are estimated and the City reserves the right to change the scope and quantity of pipe cleaned and inspected without modification of quoted price”.

Josh asked if the contract had been changed.

Michael said yes it had. This company found pipe in the ground that they didn’t know was there. They had 51 hours of specialty cleaning. There is no way to tell until they get in the ground what needs cleaned.

Kevin said that he has stopped and talked to this crew and they are good guys. Can the City not clean the roots? Do we have equipment to do this?

Michael said we do not. Our camera cannot get in the line.

Kevin asked about the camera system that was purchased in 2006. We bought a new vacuum truck, a camera system, and software. He asked what happened to this equipment.

Michael said that there was a lot of money put into the old vacuum truck and it was costing a lot in maintenance. We bought a push camera in 2018 or 2019. This camera is limited in length and very small.

Discussion was held if the City located the manholes or if this company charged us to located them.

Josh asked if they had to clean up debris around the manholes and were we charged for that?

Michael said that some of the manholes had to have trees and brush cleaned up to get to, and once they get in the manhole, they cleaned all the roots out.

Kevin asked why we didn’t have the manholes cleaned and ready for this crew so we didn’t have to pay extra for that.

Michael said that he didn’t have a list of the manholes with brush around them. He had never seen some of the manholes.

Josh asked if they charged us $350.00 an hour to cut brush?

Michael said that is the rate. There is a grand total of 51 hours of specialty hours. Two hours of that is removal of really large rocks they had to remove to get the manhole. All the rest is root removal.

Pete said that he has a problem with doing a change order after the work has been done and not before.

Kevin said that the company should have been shut down when they reached the contract price. Now we are on the hook for over $11,000 which we didn’t approve.

Michael said that he should have appeared before them sooner.

Susan said that all of the bidders bid this project the same way. The City budgeted for $120,000 for this project. It was bid on a rate basis. We asked for the best rate.

Josh said that we should have known there would be more specialty work. This is on the City. We should have located every manhole and cleaned them up before this company showed up.

Pete asked if we have seen any results yet from their work.

Michael said that the manhole by Buck Run should not overflow again. There are lots of lines that are clean now that were choaked up with roots. We will see immense results.

Pete asked what equipment we need in order to do this work ourselves.

Michael said that we need some larger saws and an easement machine and a new camera van.

Pete said that the new camera van is in the upcoming budget.

Michael said that he doesn’t have prices on any of this equipment.

Michael said that doesn’t think they billed us for that.

Kevin said that they have. He talked to them. He asked where all the equipment is from 2006?

Michael said the camera van is in bad condition. It is not usable.

Josh made a motion to increase the contract $30,450 or a maximum not to exceed $120,000. He also included that no more cutting trees or brush removal be included in their billings or locating manholes. R. Nichols seconded.

Pete said that this was poorly bid and poorly supervised. He doesn’t feel comfortable and we should stop this project where it is. We could use the additional $30,000 and buy equipment that we can use to do this work.

Josh said that his thoughts are that this work will be vital for our sewers and he would like to see it get completed. He doesn’t want the process slowed because of how we set it up.

Kevin said that they are hard workers and from North Dakota and they are used to cold weather. It’s not the fault of this company. He asked if this will locate every manhole in town.

Michael said that is a separate project. These are the main lines that carry the most flow.

Kevin asked about tabling this until tomorrow and Michael could bring some prices back to them.

Michael said that he needs to give them an answer about when and if to come back on this project.

Jeremy said that according to his figures there is still an extra $305.00.

Michael said that when we get to $120,000 they would have to stop. He said he could try and bring them some figures tomorrow.

Josh made a motion to withdraw his motion to approve the request. Randy seconded to withdraw his motion.

Josh Jones made a motion to table this issue until 1:00 p.m. Pete Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, and J. Jones votes aye. R. Nichols voted no. Motion carried 3-1.

APPROVED TO TABLE THIS CHANGE ORDER UNTIL 1:00 P.M. ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12TH, 2021.

ADJOURNMENT:

J. Jones moved to adjourn the special meeting at 4:07 p.m. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 4:07 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Fort Scott City Commission Minutes of Feb. 2

Minutes are unapproved until 2/16/2021.

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of February 2nd, 2021 Regular Meeting #3

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held February 2nd, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners P. Allen, K. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Jones presiding.

INVOCATION: Pastor Steven Cole, First United Methodist Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Jeff Hancock, Rachel Pruitt, Don George, Allyson Turvey, Chad Brown, Steven Cole, Susan Bancroft, Anne Rawlins, Deb McCoy, Garth Hermann, Michael Hoyt, Max Fanning, Dave Bruner, Doug Guns, Bret Shogren, Don George, Jeremy Frazier, and Janice Allen.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Josh Jones welcomed new City Manager Jeremy Frazier to the City of Fort Scott. Diane Clay, City Clerk, administered the Oath of Office to Mr. Frazier.

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA: J. Jones moved to add the Memorandum of Agreement for a Mass Dispensing Site to the Consideration section of the agenda. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ADD THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT FOR A MASS DISPENSING SITE TO THE CONSIDERATION SECTION OF THE AGENDA.

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of January 19th, 2021 and special meeting minutes of January 19th, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1281-A totaling $345,26816.

  1. Certificate of Appropriateness – 6 N. Main – Paint color approval

  1. Request to Pay – Suez Treatment Solutions, Inc. – Water Treatment Plant – $15,784.70

R. Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen, J. Jones, R. Nichols, and L. Watts voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

Anne Rawlins – She asked why the streets weren’t sanded last week when the bad weather came. She slid across 6th Street. There were sand trucks at the Middle School at 7:45 and people had trouble getting up the hill. They should have been out earlier.

She asked if a decision had been made about moving Old Fort Genealogical Society to the east side of Memorial Hall yet.

She also asked if the Commission had a decided upon a donation to the Mayhugh Cemetery Memorial Fund yet.

She informed the Commission that a webinar will be held on February 12th at the Gordon Parks Museum about the Mayhugh Cemetery and invited them to attend.

K. Allen said that they have discussed the Memorial Hall move but nothing has been decided.

K. Allen said that the bad weather moved in on the City quickly that morning. He also wasn’t aware of it until he received a call either.

Chad said that they had trucks out at 7:00 a.m. and treated up by the schools at least three times.

Michael Hoyt – Mr. Hoyt quizzed the new City Manager about the U.S. Constitution and what the 3rd Amendment pertained to.

Mr. Hoyt stated that Josh Jones asked at the last meeting when we were presented with the $50,000 cost for the gap in KCAMP insurance if a risk assessment had been done. He said that he did a risk assessment. He stated we have $800,000 in filed suits against the City. That is what they are asking for. That doesn’t mean they’ve won it. It is a potential risk.

Mr. Hoyt also stated that the City has over nearly $1,000,000 in vacation and sick leave accrued. He said that there is no law on carrying over sick and vacation leave. You can lose or use with no consequences. You just have to have a policy in place.

Susan said that she will bring back numbers to the Commission at their next meeting on sick and vacation leave.

Interim City Manager Report and Comments: Jeff Hancock said that this is his final meeting tonight. He has enjoyed his stay in Fort Scott and met some great people.

He left the Commission with some thoughts:

  • The City needs to follow State law, the City Charter ordinances and work within the City Manager/Commission form of government. He urged the City Commissioners to work through the City Manager to the different departments of the City.

  • He urged them to read Kansas University Professor John Nalbandian’s Governing Together-Bridging the Gap.

  • He recommended that the City at some time do a session or a all day session on Team Building and Operational Strategic Planning.

  • He said that the policies and procedures of the City needs to be tracked in ordinances and resolutions.

  • He recommended a salary survey be conducted also.

  • He stated that there is too much drama taking place between the existing economic agencies and they all must work together.

  • He stated that the Commission has a very good and dedicated City Staff and City Staff should always communicate an optimistic image and perspective.

  • He believes that the residents of Lake Fort Scott should explore the creation of a Homeowners Association and take ownership of the community costs, and that the City should explore turning over certain assets to the Homeowners Association to assist in that process.

Kevin thanked him for his time at the City. He said that he is glad we don’t have a Homeowner’s Association at the Lake. He doesn’t want to drive the citizens away from swimming, boating, or fishing.

The Commission thanked him for his service and time he gave to the City of Fort Scott.

Director Reports: Doug Guns – Doug gave an update to the City Commission on the grounds of Woodland Hills Golf Course and told what he and his crew have completed this past year. Maintenance of the greens and cutting of underbrush were both completed. Even with Covid and being closed the month of March, there were 17 tournaments held at the course.

LaRoche Stadium – He is also in charge of the grounds at LaRoche Stadium. He and his crew have done routine winter maintenance and checked all the irrigation systems. Their first tournament is this coming weekend.

He said that he has three full time employees. He does hire three seasonal employees during April to October to assist in mowing.

Josh said that he has heard great things about our course and that even the Parks Director in Nevada called and asked them for advice.

Randy said that we have an excellent course and a gem in the golf course. He told him he has done a remarkable job.

Old Business: None

Appearances: None

New Business:

  1. Approval of Notification of Bond Sale (General Obligation Refunding Bonds Series 2021-A) Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, introduced Garth Hermann of Gilmore & Bell, and Bret Shogren of Stifel to discuss the bond sale that was held today.

  1. Approval of bid – Garth Hermann, Bond Attorney, Gilmore & Bell, shared the bid results with the City Commission. He said to remind the Commission that the City had six outstanding bond issues that were eligible to be refunded. Those are series 2009, 2010-A, 2011-A, 2011-B, 2012-A, and 2012-B with outstanding interest rates from 1.6% to 4.1%. They worked with City Staff and the Bond Counsel. This list was submitted to hundreds of underwriters. At 10:00 a.m. bids were opened. There were seven bidders signed up and five underwriters submitted bids. The bid with the highest interest rate was from D. A. Davidson & Co., in the amount of .6925%, the next bid was UMB Bank N.A. in the amount of 0.6143%, the next was Commerce Bank at 0.4296%, the next was Central States Capital Markets at 0.419% and the winning bid was Country Club Bank at 0.333%. These bids are AA type quality bids. The total reduced interest savings resulted in an amount of $108,162.85. or 2.8% amount of savings. Their preliminary savings was estimated at $77,465.00 in savings, so this saved over 44% more than estimated. Due to the premium generated, they were also able to pay off the $3,900,000 in bonds with only issuing $3,805,000 in bonds. The debt was reduced by $95,000. These bonds will start to pay off at the scheduled time as when they were issued.

Bret Shogren with Stifel asked the City Commission to approve the low bid, the Ordinance No. 3573 and Resolution No. 4-2021.

R. Nichols moved to approve the low bid from Country Club Bank in the amount of 0.333%. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED LOW BID FROM COUNTRY CLUB BANK IN THE AMOUNT OF 0.333% FOR THE REFINANCING OF THE GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS.

  1. Approval of the Ordinance No. 3573 providing for the issuance of the G.O. Bonds

R. Nichols moved to approve Ordinance No. 3573 providing for the issuance of the bonds. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3573 AUTHORIZING AND PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, SERIES 2021-A, OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING FUNDS TO REFUND A PORTION OF THE CITY’S OUTSTANDING GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS; PROVIDING FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF AN ANNUAL TAX FOR THE PURPOSE OF PAYING THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON SAID BONDS AS THEY BECOME DUE; AUTHORIZING CERTAIN OTHER DOCUMENTS AND ACTIONS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH; AND MAKING CERTAIN COVENANTS WITH RESPECT THERETO.

  1. Approval of Resolution No. 4-2021 prescribing the form and details of and authorizing the directing the sale and delivery of G.O. Refunding Bonds

L. Watts moved to approve Resolution No. 4-2021 authorizing and directing the sale and delivery of the General Obligation Bonds. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 4-2021 PRESCRIBING THE FORM AND DETAILS OF AND AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE SALE AND DELIVERY OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2021-A, OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED BY ORDINANCE NO. 3573 OF THE ISSUER; MAKING CERTAIN COVENANTS AND AGREEMENTS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PAYMENT AND SECURITY THEREOF; AND AUTHORIZING CERTAIN OTHER DOCUMENTS AND ACTIONS CONNECTED THEREWITH.

 

  1. Consideration to solicit Aquatic Center Cleaning Bid – Dave Bruner, Fire Chief, informed the Commission that he is asking approval to solicit bids for the brush blasting and painting of the aquatic center for this year. Painting bids were solicited last year but then that project did not happen due to Covid. The pool has not been painted since 2017. They recommend every three to five years that it be repainted and cleaned. Brush blasting is a more finer cleaning than power washing. He shared photos of chipped paint and the faded black lines in the pool. The swim team uses the black lines for their competitions.

Discussion was held to contact Larkin Aquatics who constructed the pool to get their opinion on the brush blasting and the type of paint.

L. Watts moved to solicit bids for the brush blasting and painting at the aquatic center. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO SOLICIT BIDS FOR THE BRUSH BLASTING AND PAINTING AT THE AQUATIC CENTER.

  1. Consideration of Alley Construction Policy – Chad Brown, Public Works Director, informed the Commission that this is in reference to the alley between Main and National in the 100 block. He recommended that all alleys located in the downtown historic district be constructed using a minimum of 6” of concrete surface. The costs for the asphalt price at 6” thick was $16,960. The cost of concrete for materials alone was $11,515.04. Estimated labor for the concrete is about $7,000 more utilizing the Street crew and the Parks crew. His recommendation is to use the concrete in the alleys as needed in the downtown historic area.

Jeff Hancock, Interim City Manager, also recommended the concrete in the alleys in the downtown area.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Alley Construction Policy for the Downtown Historic District. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Jones voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED THE ALLEY CONSTRUCTION POLICY FOR THE DOWNTOWN HISTORIC DISTRICT.

  1. Consideration of Assessment Waiver Policy – Allyson Turvey, Community Development Manager, informed the Commission that is the policy for the individual waiver request. This was discussed at the work session. She discussed the percentage of the property value rather than a set number. She removed the section where the new property owner was able to come in and get their assessments removed. The concern was someone could sell their property to a friend to get this waived. If a property owner is willing to put in the money to update a property, all requirements must be met before the waiver is granted. This would have to be looked at on a case by case basis. Ally said that she can add Item C for a New Property Owner Waiver and that all requirements must be met before the waiver may be granted.

L. Watts moved to approve the Assessment Waiver with the addition of Item C for the New Property Owner Waiver included. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ASSESSMENT WAIVER POLICY WITH THE ADDTION OF ITEM C FOR NEW PROPERTY OWNER WAIVER.

  1. Consideration of Assessment Policy for County Tax Sale – Allyson Turvey, Community Development Manager, informed the Commission that the City waive all assessment fees for the properties being prepared for the tax sale. If not waiving all the fees, a percentage of 25% is also proposed. She shared a spreadsheet showing 25% and 50% of the assessment fees for the tax sale properties.

R. Nichols moved to approve the assessment policy for the County tax sale at the 25% amount or the lower assessed fee. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE ASSESSMENT POLICY FOR THE COUNTY TAX SALE AT THE 25% ASSESSED AMOUNT OR THE LOWER ASSESSED FEE.

  1. Consideration of Kansas Municipal Utilities Training Program for 2021 – Susan Bancroft, informed the Commission that a contract was signed in 2019 obligating the City for three years at $22,000 per year for safety training. Because the City is a cash basis state, obligations can only be made annually. She feels that safety training can be accomplished at a cheaper rate and she spoke with K.M.U. officials. She asked for 2021 that this be pro-rated to the same level as 2018 which is $15,000. Since K.M.U. hired a trainer for 2021, she suggested the Commission possibly approve the $15,000 for 2021 saving the City $7,000 and revisit the contract during budget. Training would go from two days a month to one day a month. The Commission can either not approve or approve at the $15,000 reduced rate. Her recommendation is to not approve this contract.

Deb Needleman, Human Resource Director, said that there is other training available. She is checking with E.M.C. and Michael Mix knows of some training opportunities also.

L. Watts moved to not approve the K.M.U. training program for 2021. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO NOT APPROVE THE K.M.U. TRAINING PROGRAM FOR 2021.

  1. Consideration to accept C.FA.P. Grant for $1,317.00 – Don George, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, informed the Commission that the City has been partners with K.D.W.P. since the 1970’s. This grant was applied for last fall and was awarded. This grant is for a parking lot at the back of Gunn Park by the river. This will be on the west side of Gunn Park. He reminded the Commission about the stocking of trout that occurs in Gunn Park. He asked that the trout be promoted through the City on their Facebook page. He also asked that the brochure in the lobby be updated to include the trout.

Mr. George also brought up the idea of kayaking from Gunn Park to Rock Creek Lake down the Marmaton River. He thinks this would bring in a lot of tourists from the Kansas City area. The State has leased the right from the landowners so people can kayak down the river.

K. Allen made a motion to accept the award from Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in the amount of $1,317.00. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ACCEPT THE GRANT AWARD FROM KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND PARKS IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,317.00 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A PARKING AREA AT THE BACK OF GUNN PARK.

  1. Memorandum of Agreement for Mass Dispensing Site at the First Source Building – Rachel Pruitt, Economic Development Director, informed the Commission that is an agreement for Public Health to utilize the First Source building as a vaccination site. The City Attorney has reviewed and approved this agreement. This will be a centralized location where people can enter in one door and exit out another door. This would be used until the vaccine has been administered to all who desire it. The Public Health Office will begin administering vaccines on Tuesday, February 9th to those 85 and older from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The City has release forms also to sign. The ages for vaccination drop after the first age for vaccination. There is a shortage of vaccines still. This will be a good use for a vacant building at this time.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Memorandum for Mass Dispensing Site for First Source. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE MEMORANDUM FOR MASS DISPENSING SITE FOR THE FIRST SOURCE BUILDING.

  1. Discussion of Charter Ordinance for replacing vacant Commissioner position – Mayor Josh Jones asked the Commission to review this proposed Charter Ordinance. If they like it, he will ask the City Attorney to draft it in the proper form. He asked if there was any changes needed on this to replace a vacant Commissioner.

Randy said that since this is a Charter Ordinance, it will take four (4) votes to pass. He will never vote for it. He still believes that the current ordinance we have is sufficient.

Josh said that he looked at the last several elections and not one candidate received over 25% of the vote of the general public.

Randy said that he still won’t vote for this Charter Ordinance.

Kevin said that he still believes that the next person in line should be offered this position first and it’s the right thing to do.

J. Jones made a motion to approve for the City Attorney to draft up a Charter Ordinance for replacing a vacant City Commissioner and bring back to the next meeting. K. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, and J. Jones voted aye. R. Nichols and L. Watts voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED FOR THE CITY ATTORNEY TO DRAFT UP A CHARTER ORDINANCE FOR REPLACING A VACANT CITY COMMISSIONER AND BRING BACK TO THE NEXT MEETING.

Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

P. Allen – Nothing to report.

L. Watts – Welcomed Jeremy Frazier to the City of Fort Scott. She is excited to see what all he will do for the City.

R. Nichols – Welcomed Jeremy also to the City. He thanked Jeff Hancock for his term as Interim City Manager.

He thanked City staff for their reports.

He encouraged citizens to take the Covid vaccine if they are old enough.

K. Allen – He stated that he would donate his Covid vaccine to Dr. Nichols.

He asked about the First Source building and if we were advertising the building for sale? For rent?

Jeff Hancock said that Rachel has information on that and will have it at the next meeting.

Kevin asked about the road at 2500 South Main going east and if was determined who owned the road.

Jeremy Frazier said it was not determined who owned it. The City never accepted the road.

Kevin would like to get this road repaired.

Kevin asked if Public Works was fully staffed yet.

Jeremy Frazier said that there are 5 in Streets and 4 in Water Distribution currently.

Kevin asked about the road at Ellis Park as the rain washes the gravel away.

Josh said that Chad would like to asphalt the road there.

J. Jones – Josh stated that he hopes we can get started on Cooper Street by March 1st. He thinks this will help the sales tax pass if people can see us working on a project.

Josh said he was approached by a plumber about the City’s gas pressure test requirements. The City requires 20 pounds and other places require 12 pounds.

Jeremy will have this checked into.

Josh said that he spoke with the City Attorney about his invoice. He said he would like to see the City go out for the attorney position and see if there is any local interest. We could still use Lauber Municipal Law firm.

He asked how long it has been since our Work Comp has been quoted.

Susan said it has been some time.

City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

L. Watts moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing attorney-client privilege in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). The subject matter will be held on Charter Ordinances and residency requirements. The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 9:18 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission, City Manager, Interim City Manager, Director of Finance, and Human Resource Director.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 9:18 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

J. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing attorney-client privilege in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). The subject matter will be held regarding pending litigation. The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 9:40 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and Interim City Manager.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 9:40 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

Adjournment:

J. Jones moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:42 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:42 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, MMC

City Clerk

FSCC Employee Fitness Center: Encouraging Healthy Living

The Fort Scott Community College Employee Fitness Center. Submitted photos.

Chelsea Yount, Fort Scott Community College Cheer Coach is also on the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team.

 

Chelsea Yount, from FSCC website.

 

The college is one of the local employers working with the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT)to improve health in the community.

 

When the college realized grant money was available for an employee fitness center through HBCAT, “we sprang into action to create the opportunity for physical activity  (for employees) on campus,” Yount said. “We have about 150 plus employees.”

 

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team Grant to FSCC for the project was for $12,500.

 

“Discussion of creating a fitness center for FSCC employees began in September of 2017 and the gym opened in February of 2019,” she said. “The FSCC Employee fitness center was designed to give employees 24/hr access to a facility that would encourage healthy living and a healthy workspace.”

 

Fort Scott Community College School of Cosmetology. From the school’s website.

 

The fitness center is located in the upper level of the Fort Scott Community College School of Cosmetology, just off Horton Street.

 

The center encourages employee users to wear face masks when using the facility for COVID-19 mitigation. Sanitary wipes and spray are available to clean the equipment following use, as well.

 

 

 

What’s Happening in Fort Scott Feb. 12 Edition

What’s Happening
in Fort Scott
February 12th
Weekly Edition
UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS
________________
BLACK HISTORY MONTH |TRIBUTE EXHIBIT
Consist of over 80 posters, photos, and literature of the great and important Black Innovators and Leaders throughout history! Free display in the lobby at
2108 S. Horton located at the FSCC.
KOMB RADIO AUCTION ~ FM103.9
Every Thursday & Friday from 2 ~ 4 pm
Call or text 620.724.7962 for new Bid #
Our stations are also now streaming, so you can listen anywhere, anytime on http://www.kombfm.com.  You can now access our website, and bid on any items, and even buy it now prices.
WALMART IS NOW OFFERING THE COVID VACCINE ACCORDING TO KS PHASE 2 GUIDELINES, click here to make an appt.
Call the Pharmacy w/questions 620-223-5051.
2/12- Karaoke Friday Nights at The Boiler Room Brewhaus! Experience or beginners, it does not matter! Let’s have some fun with music & drinks! Click here for their FB page.
2/12 & 2/13- Livestock sale at the Fort Scott Livestock Market, both Friday & Saturday, click here for their FB page.
2/12 & 2/13 – Consignor Appreciation Days at Bids & Dibs! 108 S. Scott Ave. Suite C. clickhere for more info.
2/12 & 2/13 – Galentine’s Day at Angie Dawn’s Boutique! 108 S. Scott Ave. Suite B. clickhere for more info.
2/12- Virtual Lunch & Learn on Mayhew the Forgotten Cemetery by the Gordon Parks Museum celebrating Black History Month, 11-12 pm, click here for more info. Pre-Registration required.
2/12- Creative Canvas Couples Paint Night, moved from Gunn Park to Buck Run, 6 pm, click here for details.
2/12 & 2/13- The Prairie Troubadour 5th Annual Symposium, most events will take place at the River Room Event Center, 3 W. Oak St., click here for more info.
2/13-Love Local Chocolate Crawl Shopping Event – SATURDAY – 14 PARTICIPATING STORES!Downtown & Around shops will feature chocolate tasting as you shop specials & enter drawings for giveaways! See the flyer below for more info.
2/13- Great Backyard Bird Count at the Fort Scott National Historic Site! Saturday starting 10 am until 12 pm. Click herefor full details of joining the rangers!
2/13- Pickleball from 8-10 am at Memorial Hall, open to anyone wanting to play! Always check the FB Group page herefor any location changes or cancelations. Tuesdays 6-8pm, Thursdays 6-8pm & Saturdays 8-10am.
2/13-The Lavender Patch Gift Shop will be open! Sat., Feb. 6th from 9 am -2 pm located 2376 Locust Rd., Valentines Day items and other lavender items.
2/13- Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tournament @ Gunn Park, registration starts at 9 am, click here for more info.
2/13- Valentine Crafts @ Buck Run Community Center, pre-school to 5th grade, 9 am to 10:30 am, pre-register for $1 thru Buck Run.
2/13- Timken Job Fair! Saturday from 9 am until 1 pm, held onsite at 4505 Campbell Drive in the Fort Scott Industrial Park.
2/16- Kiwanis Drive-Thru Pancake Feed at First United Methodist Church! Two Times: 11:30am to 1:30pm & 4:30pm to 6:30pm. $5 suggested Free Will Donations.
2/18- Chamber Coffee hosted by Chamber Board of Directors, hosted by the Chamber Board at the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall St.
2/19- Chicken Noodle Fundraiser for medical expenses of Marsha Lancaster of Marsha’s Great Plains Deli! click here for flyer. Address included to send a card to Marsha.
2/19- Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry Drive-Thru only! Kennedy Gym, Every Friday. 3 weeks committed until March 5th.
2/19- Ryan Hall Band Live @ Boiler Room Brewhaus, 8pm, click here for FB event.
2/20- Barn Quilt Workshop, 1-4pm, click here for FB event.
2/20- FSHS Thespians Royal Tea Party & Revue, two performances @ 5 and 7:30pm, click here for FB event.
SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!
Downtown Fort Scott is booming!
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
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.
FITNESS FOR EVERYONE IN FS!
Many fitness options are available…
SPIN classesnow offered bySmallville Athletics, every Mon & Wed at 5:15 pm, and Tu & Thurs at 6 pm. $5/class or $50/mo. unlimited.
Total Body Fitness ~ M & W Karen Reinbolt at BRCC@
8:15 am $20/8 week session.
Zumba~ M,W, F @ 6pm Monalynn Decker at BRCC $40 for a 12-week session.
Indoor Fitness/Gyms at
I AM Rehab + Fitness, Smallville Athletics, and Buck Run!
The Fort Scott Chamber Presents
Love Local Chocolate Crawl
Shopping Event in Fort Scott ~ February 13th!
VALENTINE’S DINNER SPECIALS IN FORT SCOTT!
GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT WITH THE
FORT SCOTT NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
UPCOMING PROGRAMS AT BUCK RUN
JOB FAIR TO BE HOSTED BY TIMKEN!
FORT SCOTT ROTARY CLUB
IS SEEKING NEW MEMBERS

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Change Order For Special FS City Meeting at 1 p.m. Feb. 12

The City Commission will meet for a special meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 12th, 2021 at City Hall in the City Commission meeting room at 123 South Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The City Commission will meet to consider Change Order #1 for the Sanitary Sewer Cleaning and Video Inspection Services.

This meeting will be broadcast on the City’s You tube channel. This meeting is open to the public.

Union Lofts: Rent In February Get 2 Months Free

February Rent Promo
Announced by the new Union Lofts
Downtown Fort Scott!
2 months FREE rent if leased signed in February!
Union Lofts feature both market rate
& income based apartments.
The units currently available are income based.
Market rate units are full at this time.
See link below for income guidelines.
[Spacious Kitchen]
[Community Lobby Seating]
AMENITIES
  • BBQ Grill
  • Beautiful Courtyard
  • Fitness Center
  • Community Area
  • Laundry Area
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a viewing, call or email Rachel Wheeler…
Rachel Wheeler
Property Manager
a. 8 E. 1st Street, Ft. Scott, KS 66701
p. 620-223-1718  f. 620-223-1482

Local Chocolate Crawl Saturday in Fort Scott

Saturday
February 13th!
Fort Scott Participating Retailers will be offering Chocolate tastings while you shop! Special offers, discounts, & drawings!
This Saturday, February 13th
Shop Local with Love in Fort Scott to find…
the perfect gift for your Valentine, friend, neighbor,
OR pampering for yourself!
This Saturday, February 13th!
Burrrrr… we know it will be chilly out, but what an even more important time to support your Local stores!
Let’s show them some LOVE!
ROSES ARE RED…
VIOLETS ARE BLUE
THE CHAMBER LOVES LOCAL
WE KNOW YOU DO, TOO!

FSHS Thespians Host 3rd Annual Royal-Tea Party and Revue

Addy Labbe as Cinderella, Carlee Studyvin as the Evil Stepmother, Zaria Byrd and Tina Ramirez as the Evil Stepsisters. Submitted photos.

 

 

 

The Fort Scott High School Thespians host their 3rd Annual Royal Tea Party and a special Royal Revue on Feb. 20 at the FSHS Auditorium.

Join your favorite princesses and princes, queens and kings as they sing, dance, and perform for you. Take photos with your favorite characters and take home special crafts and treats as momentos.

 

 

Montana LaRoche as Maleficent and Ali McClain as Sleeping Beauty. Submitted photos.

 

The Revue includes performances by junior Jenna Stockstill; sophomores Israel Carreno, Jordyn McGhee, and Karen Primeaux; and freshmen Rex Wells, Silvia Moreno, and Cadence Tuck.

Performances begin at 5 and 7:30 p.m. with an immersive theatre experience to follow where audience members can interact with nearly 20 other characters and take home a goodie bag.

Tickets are $6 for children and $8 for adults. Tickets must be purchased online in advance at fortscotthighschooltheatre.ludus.com. Tickets may be available at the door, but are not guaranteed. Masks a

nd social distancing are required.

All children must stay with and be accompanied by an adult as they enjoy the festivities and attendees are encouraged to join us in dressing as royalty.

Doors will open 15 minutes early.

 

The musical is directed by Theatre Director Angie Bin, Music Director Mary Jo Harper, Assistant Music Director Taylor Qualls, and Choreographer Delynn Abati.

 

For more information, please see the Fort Scott High School Thespians Facebook page or contact Bin at [email protected]

or 620-719-9622.

Photos are from last year’s Royal Tea Party.

 

Fundraiser For Marsha Lancaster is Feb. 19

Marsha Lancaster. Submitted photo.

Local business owner, Marsha Lancaster, has been in the hospital for over a month, according to her sister Debbie Baxley.

“She went into the hospital at Pittsburg for two to three days, then they took her to Arkansas,” Baxley said.

“Her kidneys were shutting down and they couldn’t find a hospital to take her with COVID (the pandemic virus plaguing the nation and the world),” she said. “They found one in Arkansas and we said just take her to wherever she can get help.”

They have tested Lancaster three times for COVID-19 and each was negative, her sister said.

Lancaster is currently on dialysis every other day and oxygen.

“Her kidneys’ aren’t functioning yet, the doctor said they could kick in any day,” she said. “They have been trying to get her off of oxygen. That’s been going well.”

“We can see her on our cellphone and she looks good when we talk to her,” Baxley said.

 

Cards can be sent to Marsha at

Regional Springdale NW Medical Center,

609 W. Maple Avenue, 6th floor, attn: Marsha Lancaster

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

 

Her business is running with the help of others.

 

The Marsha’s Deli crew on Feb. 10, 2021. From left:  Beverly Lind, Debbie Baxley (sitting) behind Deb is Carla Hamrick, Tom Lancaster, Lisa Bradley,  Shelly Rowe. .Submitted photo.

Her well-known restaurant, Marsha’s Deli, is continuing with the help of staff and family. The restaurant is located at 6 W. 18th in Fort Scott.

Baxley and her daughter, Shelly Rowe, along with Carla Hemrick, and Lisa Bradley “are taking care of the business for her,” Baxley said.

Monday and Tuesday the restaurant was closed due to the ice roads and arctic weather conditions.

 

A fundraiser has been started for Lancaster.

Meanwhile, a fundraiser has been started for Lancaster.

“We thought being self-employed, there was no way she wouldn’t need help,” Linda Findley who is spearheading the fundraiser said.

The fundraiser is  Friday,  Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Elk’s Building at 111 W. 19th. People are asked to drive to the east door of the building and orders will be taken by helpers. Then the meals will be brought out to the buyer.

It’s a chicken and noodles dinner with mashed potatoes, green beans, and bread for $10 cash or check only.

Pre-ordering is encouraged. Call 620-215-2036 or 816-797-4884.

Findley said she is anticipating serving 500 meals, with over 200 already ordered.

“Numerous people have sent big donations,” Findley said. “Marrone’s of Pittsburg and G & W Foods of Fort Scott has helped with food.”

Helping the day of the fundraiser will be Nancy Maze, Brenda Collinge, Debbie Myers, JoLynne Mitchell, and Adina Findley, Findley said.

 

 

Chamber Coffee at Sunshine Boutique on Feb. 11

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces that this week’s Chamber Coffee will be hosted by
Sunshine Boutique
18 E. Wall Street
Downtown Fort Scott
February 11, 2021 @ 8 am
Join us for Coffee, Networking & Community News while visiting the boutique!
Georgia Brown has owned and operated Sunshine Boutique in Downtown Fort Scott since 1981.
Over the past year, the store doubled in size with Georgia’s granddaughters joining the business offering apparel and accessories in addition to the gift shop which features home décor and kitchen wares, coffees and teas, floral design and tuxedo rental, candles, greeting cards and Dixie Belle chalk paint.
Click here for their website.
Click here for their Facebook page.
Click here for their Facebook VIP group.
Chamber members and guests are invited to Chamber Coffee events each Thursday at 8 a.m. to network, make announcements, hear about happenings in the community as well as learn about the host business or organization.
Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.
UPCOMING CHAMBER COFFEE SCHEDULE:
~ 2/18 ~ Fort Scott Chamber Board of Directors
~ 2/25 ~ Ascension Via Christi ER – Drive-thru Chamber Coffee
~ 3/4 ~ Chamber Coffee “OPEN” call to schedule!
~ 3/11 ~ Chamber Coffee “OPEN” call to schedule!
~ 3/18 ~ Briggs Auto “Birthday Week” 6 years
~ 3/25 ~ Nevada Regional Medical Center (location TBA)

Land Bank Meeting Today at 4 p.m.

The LandBank meeting that was scheduled for Tuesday, February 9th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. has been cancelled due to the inclement weather.

The LandBank meeting will now be held on Wednesday, February 10th, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall in the City Commission meeting room. There will be a majority of the City Commissioners present, but no City Commission business will be conducted.

This meeting will be made available via the City’s you tube channel at City of Fort Scott.