Category Archives: Fort Scott
Waypoint Coins Hide and Seek Event Is August 2
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A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members.. |
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USD234 Minutes from July 14
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, July 14, 2025
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, for their regular monthly meeting at 424 S Main.
Vice President Stewart Gulager opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
06-09-2025
06-13-2025
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – June 20, 2025 – $2,017,520.07
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
June KASB Policy Updates
Extended Trips 2025-26
Fundraising Applications 2025-26
Resolution 25-01 Destructions of Records
Resolution 25-02 Waiver of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
Resolution 25-03 Rescinding Policy Statements found in Board Minutes
Resolution 25-04 Establish Home Rule by Board of Education
Designation of Banks for deposit of school funds
FSHS activity funds – City State Bank
FSM activity funds – Union State Bank
Eugene Ware activity funds – UMB Bank
Winfield Scott activity funds – UMB Bank
USD 234 District-Landmark National Bank, UMB Bank, KMIP, Citizens Bank
Set fees for copying records.
10 cents per page for employees
10 cents per page for alumni
15 cents per page for non-employees
20 cents per page for color copies
Mileage reimbursement – current state mileage rate
For information only – as of 01/01/25 – 70 cents
2025-26 School Fees
Recreation Commission Board Member Term
Tammy Hill – June 30, 2026
Vincent Ratcliff – June 30, 2027
Dave Fly – June 30, 2027
Adam Lancaster – June 30, 2026
Dillon Duffy – June 30, 2026
Designation of newspaper for official school publications – Fort Scott Tribune
Offices for the 2025-26 School Year
KASB Government Relations Network Representative – Board President
Food Service Hearing Officer/Compliance Coordinator for Federal
Anti-Discrimination Laws – Terry Mayfield
Title VI, Title VII, and Title IX of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act/Coordinator/Point of Contact for Child Welfare Agencies – Destry Brown & Zach Johnson
District Foster Care Liaison – Zach Johnson
Freedom of Information Officer – Haley Houdashelt
Food Service Program Representative – Robin Button
Clerk – Candace Jobe
Deputy Clerk – Terry Mayfield
KPERS Representative/KiCS Designated Representative Member – Angela Robinson
Treasurer – Rhonda Dawson
LCP Coordinator/Coordinator for Homeless Children/ 504 Coordinator – Zach Johnson
Fort Scott High School Attendance Officer – Assistant Principal
Fort Scott Middle School Attendance Officer – Matt Harris
Eugene Ware Attendance Officer – Brandon Boyd
Winfield Scott Attendance Officer – Nicole Gilmore
Resolution 25-05 KMIP Signers
Superintendent Destry Brown reported on the Patterson Grant that the district as applied for. He also gave a shared report about JAG and the great work Kevin Flanner has done with the class this last school year.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided the Board with an update on the Preschool building and the progress being made in the facility. He updated on summer projects in each department and how each is gearing up for the new school year. Last school year’s budget has been closed and they are beginning to work on this year.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on being a part of interviewing potential employees. He also will be bringing reports in the upcoming Board Meeting with the iReady scores.
The Board Approved the following items:
- 2025-26 District Handbooks
- 2025-26 Emergency Operations
- Resolution 25-06 Revenue Neutral Declaration to the Bourbon County Clerk
- Resolution 25-07 Supplemental General Budget Percentage
- iReady Subscription Renewal
- Edgenuity License Renewal
- KASB 2025-26 Workers’ Compensation Renewal
- Preschool Gym Heater Bid with CDL Electric
- Eugene Ware/Winfield Scott Rooftop Unit Replacement bid with KtK Electric, LLC
- Classified Staff Salary Schedule
- Administrator’s Salary Schedule
- Special Services Salary Schedule
- Director’s Salary Schedule
- Supplemental Salary Schedule
- DATES SET FOR:
Revenue Neutral Declaration to County Clerk – July 14, 2025
Budget Presentation – August 11, 2025
Publication in Paper – August 12, 2025
Revenue Neutral Hearing – September 8, 2025
Budget Hearing – September 8, 2025
Budget Certified to State – Before September 20, 2025
Budget Certified to County Clerk – Before October 1, 2025
There were none present for public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
Vice President Stewart Gulager adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
July 14, 2025
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations:
Johnson, Jeff – Principal – High School
Regan, Josh – Assistant Principal – High School
Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:
Coen, Serenity – Paraprofessional – Preschool
Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
High School Supplemental
Fried Chicken Dinner Fundraiser by Fort Scott FFA
Be part of the 31st Annual Chamber Golf Classic!
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City of FS Agenda Packet for July 15
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.
- Call to Order/Roll Call
- Pledge of Allegiance
III. Invocation
- Approval of Agenda
- Consent Agenda
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1388-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of June 25, 2025 – July, 2025 – $468,044.55
- Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of July 1, 2025; Special Meeting of July 1, 2025; and Special Meeting of July 2, 2025.
- June Financials
- Request to Pay Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – EEI Project No. 25-12 – East National Phase I – Survey 60% – $9,600.00
- Public Comment
VII. Appearances
- Justin Miles – Mini Golf Proposal
VIII. Unfinished Business
- Cape Seal Payment Discussion
- New Business
Public Hearing:
- 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:
- Consideration of Notice to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR) – Hart
- Consideration to Purchase (1) 20 HP Aerator and (1) 15 HP Mixer for holding basins – WWTP – S. Flater
- Consideration to 2017 Chevrolet 250/HD Pickup Truck – WWTP – S. Flater
- Consideration of Bids for Davis Lift Station Pump #2 – S. Flater
- Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Solar Panels & Maintenance – 123 N. National – Divine Properties – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
- Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Sign – 108 Scott Ave. – Bids & Dibs – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
- Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Sign – 12 S. Main – Kitchen Collective & Collaborative – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
- Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Sign – 10 N. Main – Papa Don’s – Approved – Design Review Board 6/9/2025 – L. Dillon
- Reports and Comments
- 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
FSHS Senior Ali Simhiser Is Competing At The Junior National Wrestling Championship
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.”
Alvin Metcalf is the head wrestling coach at Fort Scott High School.
Agenda for USD234 for July 14
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
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
What’s Happening in Fort Scott July 10 Edition
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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! 
Tiger Ice
OffShore Tropix
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Federal Funding Freeze Will Affect USD 234
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.
“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
Let’s Flamingle Shopping Event Downtown & Around Fort Scott, This Weekend
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Work Continues on the Street Corner at 6th and Main
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.