Category Archives: Fort Scott

The Chamber Coffee will be hosted by

Don Schroeder “Sparky”

Candidate for Bourbon County Commissioner

July 9, 2020

8 am

Being held at the Ellis Fine Arts Center

All Attendees are required to wear a mask while on the FSCC Campus. Thank you!

Social distancing is encouraged.

Click the “SPARKY” button to learn more!

SPARKY

Chamber Members & Guests are welcome

to make any announcement for $1 to the Chamber about their business or organization including events, new products, promotions, or any other specials!

Upcoming Chamber Coffee Schedule:

Bourbon County Fair – 7/16
City State Bank – South Branch – 7/23
Up Dog Yoga – 7/30

SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT CHAMBER COFFEE! AVAILABLE DATES ARE AS FOLLOWED:

August: 6th, 20th & 27th
September: 3rd, 17th & 24th
October: 15th & 29th
November: 19th
December: 10th

Fort Scott, Schools, Sports

FSHS Has New Gym Seating

July 7, 2020 Loretta George Leave a comment

The Fort Scott High School gym bleachers, 2020. Submitted photo.

The old Fort Scott High School bleachers were installed over 50 years ago in 1964, and have served the school activities since that time.

Recently USD 234 purchased and installed new ones. The new bleachers are located in the main gymnasium at FSHS.

“They have served their purpose, and in the past several years have needed numerous repairs,” Jeff DeLaTorre, U234 Athletic/Activities Director, said.

They were identified as an area to address for many years by the school leadership.

“The cost and skill to maintain the bleachers to function safely versus replacing them were prohibitive, which is why it was decided to replace them,” Gina Shelton, U234 Business Manager and Board Clerk, said.

The new Fort Scott High School gym bleachers, 2020. Submitted photo.

“The new bleachers also provide a more modern look to the gym, as well as provide more comfort to our fans and spectators,” DeLaTorre said.

“They were installed over the past two weeks. The backs to the bleachers will be installed later this summer,” he said.

The total cost was $314,020 and was paid out of the school district’s contingency part of the bond funds, according to Shelton.

“We feel the new look in the gym will benefit our students daily, providing a brighter look that will enhance pride in their school,” DeLaTorre said. “They will also benefit our parents, spectators, and fans that attend events in our gym by providing more comfortable seating. The addition of these bleachers is a positive addition to our gym that has been the site of some wonderful memories in the past, and we know will be home to more wonderful moments in the future.”

Fort Scott, Schools

FS High School Prom July 25, 2020

July 7, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Fort Scott Junior/Senior Prom, July, 25, 2020

The Fort Scott High School Class of 2020 Parent Group will be hosting PROM 2020, held July 25 at The River Room in Fort Scott, KS. The Walk-in will begin at 6:15 PM, with the dance to begin at 8:00 PM and end at 11:00 PM.

This is a free event and is open to all Fort Scott High School Junior and Senior students along with their dates. Nobody over the age of 21 will be allowed to attend the prom.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, all attendees will be required to turn in a signed waiver form in order to attend. Attendees over the age of 18 can sign the waiver themselves, while attendees under the age of 18 must have a parent/legal guardian signatures. The waiver can be picked up at the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce, and Common Ground Coffee Shop. If you would like to print out the waiver yourself, please text or email Vanessa Poyner at (620) 719-6943, [email protected] to receive the link to the waiver. The waiver will not need to be returned before July 25^th. The signed waiver will be the students “ticket” to enter the dance.

The Prom walk-in will be from 6:15 PM- 8:00 PM. The walk-in will start on the corner of Judson & Oak Street and will continue East up to the venue entrance. In order to ensure social distancing, we are requesting that only family attend the walk-in viewing, and abide by all State/County/City mandates and safety recommendations. The walk-in will also be streamed online live through www.kombfm.com City Link TV.

This years prom theme is “Hot Havana Nights”, and the Prom 2020 King & Queen candidates, are; Addison Lyons, Emma Martin, Lauren Madison, Caleb Briggs, David Milburn, and Gage Wilson.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Vanessa Poyner at [email protected] or (620) 719-6943.

“The Senior students have had to miss out on so many important activities due to COVID-19. We are hoping that by allowing them the opportunity to have a prom will grant them a bit of closure to their senior year, and give them one last chance to celebrate with their classmates,” Vanessa Poyner said.

Here is the waiver the parents and students will be required to sign prior to entering the event.

Fort Scott Prom 2020 Student/Parent/Guardian Waiver

Parents or Legal Guardians:

The Fort Scott High School Class of 2020 Parent Group will be hosting PROM 2020, held July 25th at The River Room in Fort Scott, KS. The Walk-in will begin at 6:15 PM, with the dance to begin at 8:00 PM. By signing this form, you are agreeing to attend (students over 18), or giving permission for your child (the student is under the age of 18) to attend this year’s Junior-Senior Prom. Furthermore, you, the student/parent/guardian, are waiving and releasing any liability on the FSHS Class of 2020 Parent Group, including any specific individuals associated with said Parent Group; The River Room (the venue); and any volunteers present, including but not limited to parents serving as chaperones at the event, helping with set-up or take-down, providing transportation, and/or assisting in any other way at or during the Walk-in or the Prom dance.

Any and all liabilities, injuries, illness, and/or damages that may occur to the student at or during the walk-in or Prom, including transportation to and from the event will be your (the parents or legal guardians) responsibility and not that of the named entities above. By signing this release form, the student/parent/guardian agree to abide by the following guidelines, especially with the current COVID-19 situation.

All persons in attendance will NOT be allowed to attend and enter the prom unless this release form is presented to the designated volunteers on the evening of July 25, 2020.(See back signature page for signatures needed)

Prom 2020 Guidelines

All temperatures will be taken prior to entering the prom venue. Should your student have a temperature higher than 100.4 degrees, they will NOT be allowed to enter and will be asked to leave the premises.
All State/County/City orders will be followed. (ie. masks, social distancing, etc.)
All dates MUST be 21 years of age or younger. If committee members deem necessary, they will ask for the ID of attendees present. If not able to present ID’s as to their age, they will NOT be allowed to enter and will be asked to leave the premises.
No one may bring alcohol onto the premises, including inside the venue. Failure to abide by this provision will result in your child being asked to leave the premises.
No one may bring controlled substances, illegal substances, vaping instruments, cigarettes, chewing tobacco, firearms, and the like on premises. Failure to abide by this provision will result in your child being asked to leave the premises.
We/I understand, by signing this release form, that it is possible that, due to COVID-19, sickness could possibly occur. We, the undersigned, agree to release all parties and entities mentioned above as to any liability due to any resulting sickness or illness to the student, the student’s date, the student’s family, the student’s friends, and anyone else with whom the student may come into contact with after the walk-in and Prom dance.

Thank you for your understanding and support in this situation. We know these are unusual times. We want to assure that this year’s Prom will be an exciting and memorable time for you and your child.

Fort Scott High School Student Name (please print):

_________________________________________________________________

Grade: __________

________________________________________ _________________

Parent/Legal Guardian Signature (if student is under 18) Date

________________________________________ ___________________

Signature of Fort Scott High School Student Date

Guest Name (If not FSHS Student): _______________________________________

________________________________________ _________________

Parent/Legal Guardian Signature (if student is under 18) Date

________________________________________ ___________________

Signature of Guest (If not FSHS Student) Date

Fort Scott, Government

Tourism Advisory Board Meets July 9

July 6, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

The Tourism Advisory Board will meet on Thursday, July 9^th, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main.

Please call the City Clerk at 620-223-0550 or email Diane Clay at [email protected] to sign up to speak.

The meetings are limited to 45 total in number due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however the room will only hold 14 due to the 6’ social distancing rules. Patrons will be let in one at a time at their scheduled time to ensure the public health orders are followed.

The Tourism meeting will be available on the City’s YouTube channel.

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Quarterly Downtown Meet and Greet July 7 at The Courtland Hotel

July 6, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Join us for the Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greet, Tuesday, July 7, 2020!

8:30 am to 9:30 am

hosted by the Chamber at Courtland Hotel & Spa

Rita Schroeder, Administrative Assistant

Lindsay Madison, President & CEO

620-223-3566

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.

Special Note from the Chamber Board:

Following KS state safety recommendations & health practices ~subject to Bourbon County’s continued advancement through the reopening phasing plans.

You may wear a mask at your own discretion.

Fort Scott, Government

FS Commission Agenda For July 7

July 6, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

AGENDA

FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

FORT SCOTT CITY HALL

COMMISSION ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN

JULY 7, 2020

6:00 P.M.

I. ROLL CALL:

K. ALLEN P. ALLEN NICHOLS WATTS MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE:

III. INVOCATION: Pastor

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Recognition of Payden Blythe, Police Officer

Introduction of Nate Stansberry, City Engineer

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 16^th, 2020, special meeting of June 24^th, 2020 and June 30^th, 2020.

Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1266-A totaling $804,125.90.

Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – March port-a-pottie fees – $2,153.00; April $1,911.00; and May $2,153.00 – Totaling $6,217.00.

Request to Pay – Insco Industries – $67,937.35 – Clarifier Painting Project – Water Plant

Request to Pay – Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission – $4,000.00 – Fire Truck Grant

May financials

VI. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

APPEARANCE: Vanessa Poyner – Junior/Senior Prom – Saturday, July 25^th, 2020 – Request for Street Closures: West Oak Street from Judson to National for Walk-In event. Request for parking lot behind Brewhaus Brewery for valet parking. Time requested: 2:00 p.m. to midnight – Waivers will be signed for all attendees and social distancing will be enforced.

Frank Halsey – Marmaton Massacre Event

Terry Sercer – 2019 Audit

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS: (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute limit per citizen)

PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:

VII. CONSIDERATION:

Pool Discussion – Consideration of fees

Consideration of Financial Policy

Consideration of Work Order #9 – Olsson Associates – Fort Scott Municipal Airport – Environmental Assessment

Consideration of Change Order #10 – River Intake Project – Increase of $24,950.00

Consideration of City Auctioneer Bid

Consideration to pay Ace Pipeline

Discussion of First Source Lease

Consideration to remove some of the tree line near Hole #13 at Woodland Hills Golf Course

Consideration to purchase used fairway mower – Golf Course

Consideration to purchase Cushman Utility Cart for Golf Course and sign a four year lease for 30 gas 2020 golf carts from KGT

Discussion of B.C.E.D.C.I. board activities (Pete Allen)

VIII. COMMENTS:

Director Updates:

Commission:

Kevin Allen – Executive Session regarding non-elected personnel

City Attorney:

City Manager:

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE

SESSION FOR ________________________________ IN ORDER TO

(see below justification)

DISCUSS ______________________________________. THE

EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE ___________ MINUTES AND THE OPEN

MEETING TO RESUME AT ________________.

Justifications for Executive Sessions:

Personnel matters of non-elected personnel
Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative or representatives of the body or agency
Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships
Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

American Legion Post 25 Scuttlebutt

July 6, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Kudos to Post 25’s own Myra Jowers as the incoming Second District Commander for the 2020 – 21 Legion year. Commander Jowers will be guiding 24 Second District Posts for the next year.

In addition to Myra assuming the helm of Second District leadership, Post 25 Commander Carl Jowers was elected as Second District Adjutant/Finance Officer and Post 25 Adjutant Leslie Montee was elected as Second District 3^rd Year Executive Committeewoman. This is the first time in years that Post 25 has several members in District leadership positions.

Post 25 Officers for 2020 – 21

First Name	Last Name	Title
Carl	Jowers	Commander
Leslie	Montee	Adjutant

James	Collins	Chaplain
Dean	Stephen	Executive Committee
Marvin	Taylor	Executive Committee
Michael	Hansen	Executive Committee
Darrell	Spencer	Finance Officer
Kenneth	Lyon	Historian
Myra	Jowers	Service Officer
Jake	Campbell	Sgt at Arms

Sylvia	Norris	Auxiliary President
Michael	Johnson	SAL Commander
Jessica	Allison	ALR Director

Membership

Post 25 finished the recent Legion year with 100 members and as the Second District’s number one Post in membership. Our 2021 membership goal has not yet been announced.

The 2021 membership cards have arrived. Any member desiring to pay their 2021 dues can pay them at our meeting on Monday or go online to www.legion.org and follow the prompts to renew. Dues are still $40 per year.

Renewal notices will also be mailed out in July to both current members and members whose membership has expired.

Upcoming Events

July 6. American Legion Post 25 general membership meeting at 7 pm in Memorial Hall. Our regular Post meet and greet starts at 6:30 pm.

July 9. American Legion Auxiliary Unit 25 meets at 600 pm in Memorial Hall.

July 9. American Legion Post 25 Color Guard meets at 730 pm in Memorial Hall. All Post 25 Legion family members can join the Post 25 Color Guard. This includes Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion Squadron members.

May 15 -17. Department Convention at the Ramada Hotel. The Department Convention is open to all Legionnaires.

Don’t hesitate to contact me or any Officer with any suggestions to improve Fort Scott American Legion Post 25.

Carl Jowers. Post 25 Commander.

620-215-1688

[email protected]

Fort Scott, Government

FS Commission Minutes of June 16

July 2, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of June 16, 2020 Regular Meeting #12

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 16^th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

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

INVOCATION: There was no invocation given.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: There was no audience in attendance other than a very few City staff.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

Kevin Allen moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission and City Attorney and there is no action anticipated. Pete Allen seconded. All voted aye.

RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:04 P.M.

RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 6:24 P.M.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:26 P.M.

RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 6:46 P.M.

Jeff Deane, City Attorney, said that he has been directed by the City Commission to investigate certain matters and report back to them at a later date.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

R. Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen and Pete Allen voted no. R. Nichols and L. Watts voted yes. J. Mitchell abstained. Consent Agenda did not pass. City Attorney said to take each item up and vote separately.

Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 2^nd, 2020 and amended minutes of May 19^th, 2020.

L. Watts moved to approve the minutes of June 2^nd, 2020 and the amended minutes of May 19^th, 2020. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF JUNE 2^ND, 2020 AND AMENDED MINUTES OF MAY 19^TH, 2020.

Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1265-A totaling $258,206.58.

L. Watts moved to approve the Appropriation Ordinance 1265-1 totaling $258,206.58. R. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted yes. K. Allen and P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE 1265-A TOTALING $258,206.58.

Fireworks Waiver – July 4^th, 2020

K. Allen moved to approve the Fireworks Waiver on July 4^th, 2020. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED FIREWORKS WAIVER – JULY 4^TH, 2020.

Parade Permit – Burke Street Parade – July 4^th, 2020

L. Watts moved to approve the Parade Permit for the Burke Street Parade on July 4^th, 2020. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED PARADE PERMIT – BURKE STREET PARADE – JULY 4^TH, 2020.

Request to Pay #5 – Schneider Electric – $55,016.60 – Energy Upgrade Project

L. Watts moved to approve Pay Request #5 for Schneider Electric for the Energy Upgrade Project in the amount of $55,016.60. R. Nichols seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

approved Pay Request #5 for Schneider Electric for the Energy Upgrade Project in the amount of $55,016.60.

Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc. – $15,721.43 – River Intake Project

L. Watts moved to approve the HDR Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $15,721.43 for the River Intake Project – R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approved the HDR Engineering, Inc. in the amount of $15,721.43 for the River Intake Project.

Approval of 3RK – Certificate of Pay Request #6 – MIH Housing Grant – $16,573.26.

J. Mitchell moved to approve the Pay Request #6 – 3RK – MIH Housing Grant in the amount of $16,573.26. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen and P. Allen abstained. Motion carried 3-2.

approved the Pay Request #6 – 3RK – MIH Housing Grant in the amount of $16,573.26.

Approval to Pay – Lauber Municipal Law, LLC – May 2020 – $26,923.00

L. Watts moved to approve to pay Lauber Municipal Law, LLC in the amount of $26,923.00 for the month of May 2020. R. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen abstained, and Pete Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-1-1.

approved to pay Lauber Municipal Law, LLC in the amount of $26,923.00 for the month of May 2020.

L. Watts asked in the future if the Commission had questions to have the items in the consent agenda pulled out to move the meeting along faster.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

R. Nichols moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission, City Attorney and City Manager. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:57 P.M.

At 7:04 Commissioner K. Allen returned out of the Executive Session.

RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 7:17 P.M.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

APPEARANCE: None

CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute

limit per citizen) – Comments will not be taken during this meeting. If you have a topic to discuss not listed on the agenda, please contact a City Commissioner or send a written request to [email protected].

Kevin Allen said that he had a citizen that sent him a comment.

City Attorney said that comments will not be taken during this meeting. This will be shared with all Commissioners by email.

PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

CONSIDERATION:

Approval of Appointment to Golf Course Advisory Board to replace the position held by Ken Holt – Diane Clay, City Clerk, informed the Board that there was an opening on the Golf Course Advisory Board to replace the position previously held by Ken Holt. There were two letters of interest received: Ben Cole and Jeff Collier. The Golf Course Advisory Board met and their recommendation is to appoint Ben Cole to this position.

Kevin Allen moved to approve Ben Cole to the Golf Course Advisory Board to replace the position held by Ken Holt. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED APPOINTMENT OF BEN COLE TO THE GOLF COURSE ADVISORY BOARD TO REPLACE THE POSITION PREVIOUSLY HELD BY KEN HOLT.

Approval of Notice of Award – Conrad Fire – Ladder Truck and Change Order #1 – Reduction in $24,739.67 – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, informed the Commission that the Notice of Award and Change Order #1 needs to be approved for the purchase of the ladder truck. There were changes made to the truck that reduced the total cost.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Notice of Award and Change Order #1 in the reduction of $24,739.67. L. Watts seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watt, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

approveD the Notice of Award and Change Order #1 in the reduction of $24,739.67 for the purchase of the ladder fire truck with conrad fire.

Approval of CDBG-CV Grant 20-CV-022 contract and for Mayor to sign all pertinent documents – Allyson Turvey, Tourism/Community Development Manager, informed the Commission that the City was notified on June 4^th, 2020 that we were awarded the 2020 CDBG-CV Grant in the amount of $132,000. She also gave them more information on the program. It will run similar to the previous CDBG grant from a couple of months ago. This is a grant program and not a loan program. Businesses within the City limits who have suffered COVID-19 related financial hardships will be eligible for this program. They do have to meet the 51% low to moderate (LMI) requirements to qualify. There cannot be any duplicate benefit efforts. A business will have to let us know what benefits they have received from the CARES Act, but cannot duplicate any benefits. Applicants can request up to two months of working capital. It will be on a first come, first serve basis. All applications have to be complete before they will be processed. This program is available to self-employed, owner/operators, and sole proprietors which the other program was not available to. A business could qualify up to $10,000 and will be based on the number of employees retained. All of these applications will be brought before the City Commission for final approval at their upcoming meetings. Applications will not be available until June 24^th, 2020 at which time it will open. She asked approval for the Mayor to sign the contract documents for this grant.

R. Nichols moved to approve the agreement between the State of Kansas and the City of Fort Scott for Grant No. 20-CV-022 in the amount of $132,000. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

approved the grant agreement between the State of Kansas and the City of Fort Scott for Grant No. 20-CV-022 in the amount of $132,000.

Approval of Administrative Agreement with Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission for CDBG-CV Grant – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, informed the Commission that this is the administration agreement with Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission to administer this new grant. This is in the amount of $6,600.00.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Administrative Agreement with S.E.K.R.P.C. for the CDBG-CV Grant in the amount of $6,600.00. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

approveD the Administrative Agreement with S.E.K.R.P.C. for the CDBG-CV Grant in the amount of $6,600.00.

Approval to pay retainage remaining to Ace Pipe Cleaning – $5,430.85 – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that in his opinion the payment to Ace Pipe Cleaning is owed to them.

Jeff Deane, City Attorney, said that in light of information he recently received, he would suggest that the City withhold payment at this time until all issues are resolved.

L. Watts moved to withhold payment to Ace Pipe Cleaning at this time until the City Attorney can research this further. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO WITHHOLD PAYMENT TO ACE PIPE CLEANING AT THIS TIME UNTIL THE CITY ATTORNEY CAN RESEARCH THIS FURTHER.

Approval of proposal from Midland GIS Solutions to inspect all 1,168 sewer manholes in the sanitary sewer system – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that this project is included in the Capital Outlay Program. This is for inspection of all the sewer manholes in the City and update the mapping. He does have a proposal from Midland GIS Solutions in the amount of $71,889.00. They are a great company to work with. They will survey, get coordinates, and document all manholes in our mapping system.

Michael gave them another price from the Joplin Toolbox, which is competitively bid, and their cost is over $87,000 and that does not include the mapping into our system.

R. Nichols moved to approve the proposal from Midland GIS Solutions to inspect all sewer manholes in the City of Fort Scott in the amount of $71,889.00 and update the City’s mapping system. J. Mitchell seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no.

Pete said based upon his statement from the last meeting, he would not approve any payment of money, so he voted no. He is impressed with the program.

approved the proposal from Midland GIS Solutions to inspect all sewer manholes in the City of the Fort Scott in the amount of $71,889.00 and update the City’s mapping system.

Consideration to Update City Specification 02605-2 D – Standards and Specifications for the City manual – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that this is referring to specifications for coating for the manholes. He copied off the specifications regarding the tar products. This is specific towards coating for the manholes. The tar products specified are old school and now there is a newer acrylic product. He said that he consulted with the engineer, who is the same engineer that put the specifications together, and he is good with this new product. The specifications could be updated to add for this product.

Michael asked if it was necessary to get Commission approval for an item like this. He feels this is an easy item that he can approve.

Pete said that anytime any of those specifications are changed, the Commission should be given the opportunity to approve.

Jeff Deane, City Attorney, asked for an Executive Session for 15 minutes to discuss attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

L. Watts moved to recess into Executive Session for 20 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission, City Attorney, City Manager, and Michael Mix. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:45 P.M.

RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 8:00 P.M.

City Attorney said that this item is open to either pass or table.

R. Nichols moved to table this item at this time until our City Engineer arrives for further discussion. L. Watts seconded.

Pete Allen said that he would like to state that as proposed, the ConSeal CS-55 is probably a good product, but a singular application that comes from the factory is not. He would move that we approve the CS-55 based upon the installation and instructions from ConSeal which requires multiple coats.

R. Nichols withdrew his motion to table this item.

Pete said that the intent is okay, but didn’t see any reference to the installation instructions, the thickness or multiple applications, and the City is going to have to put another at least one or two coats of CS-55 black to meet standards of installation instructions by ConSeal.

Pete made a motion to approve the CS-55 based upon the installation and instruction from ConSeal to put another two coats CS-55 black to meet the standards of installation instructions by ConSeal.

Randy asked that his motion be amended that the CS-55 product be used under those purposes or as judged appropriately by the engineer on the project.

Pete Allen said he did not approve the amendment on his motion.

L. Watts seconded Pete’s original motion. K. Allen, P. Allen, L. Watts voted aye. R. Nichols voted no. J. Mitchell abstained. Motion carried 3-1-1.

approved the CS-55 based upon the installation and instruction from ConSeal to put another two coats CS-55 black to meet the standards of installation instructions by ConSeal.

Consideration of Code of Ethics for the City of Fort Scott – Jeff Deane, City Attorney, informed the Commission that both of these items were discussed at the last meeting. He hasn’t received any comments from the Commissioners or staff on these rules. At this point, if there are no comments, he can put in a format to be considered for adoption.

K. Allen asked what we plan to accomplish with these new sets of rules and what will it cost. He doesn’t want to see it cost taxpayers more money.

Jeff Deane said that most of the costs have already been submitted. Many cities have these rules in place to help the meetings flow.

Kevin said that he hasn’t been offended by anything anyone has said, but he hates to see City money spent for something like this.

Pete asked who gave him the authority to make up these new guidelines in the first place.

Jeff said that it started when he was hired as City Attorney. He was concerned that there were no rules officially set in place.

Pete asked if these rules were in the League’s handbook.

Jeff said no and that most of these are from Kansas State Statutes. The League has a guide to procedures for Kansas Cities.

Lindsey said that there have been multiple meetings that we haven’t followed good ethics or procedures.

Jeff asked if changes need to be made to the Code of Ethics or Code of Procedures.

Kevin said he doesn’t want to change the way things are going right now. People are either going to act appropriately or not act appropriately. He said that he hopes they all act appropriately. He doesn’t see the reason to spend more money to go deeper into this. He said that the City Attorney decided to get this new code of ethics and asked again who directed him to do this.

Lindsey said that she had talked about it at previous meetings because of situations where if we had a code of ethics, it would have gave us a clear cut directive to move forward. She said that she is also trying to get more information from other cities.

City Manager said that he had heard concerns from other commissioners about ethics and our meetings and how they drag on and that we need a set of procedures.

Kevin said that he hadn’t heard anything about the City Attorney drafting up these rules and procedures. He asked if he had authority to call him and ask him questions and it costs the City $1,000 – does he have that option?

Jeff said as a City, he has been contracted to be the director of the City’s legal department. You have access to the City Attorney. He will answer legal questions, evaluate legal positions, advise on potential risk matters and exposure, and advise on issues as directed. He works with all City staff.

Kevin said that he usually tries another way and uses the League to save the City money.

Lindsey said that she has called other municipalities about their code of procedures and ethics and asked Jeff about what needed to be done. These rules are necessary, and we can benefit from them.

Randy Nichols said that he would like to move forward with the code of ethics and code of procedures for formal adoption.

Jeff said that he didn’t need a motion, just direction.

Consideration of Code of Procedures for the City of Fort Scott – Jeff Deane, City Attorney, informed the Commission that this was covered above.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

Director Updates: Allyson Turvey – Ally said that she wanted to update the Commission on Smart Growth America. This is an organization that works with rural communities and their goal is to help those communities create progress in a very strategic and fiscally responsible way. Each year they choose six rural communities to work with. The City was fortunate enough to be chosen in November of 2019. In February, the Smart Growth group came to Fort Scott. They were given a tour of the community, group interviews were done, and a community workshop was conducted with goals and vision for the future. A few weeks ago a Zoom meeting with Smart Growth was conducted, where they got to meet with the other five communities that were selected, as well as E.P.A., H.P.A., U.S.D.A., and many others and they gave them ideas about funding opportunities. Dr. Nichols updated them at their last meeting on this project. There are short term, mid term, and long term action items. This project will take us 15 to 20 years to get through. This isn’t something she or City staff can take on themselvest breathing document. This will progress our City forward and create a road map to the future.

Pete said that he was excited about this program and supports her efforts.

B. City Commission:

JoLynne Mitchell – JoLynne said that she wanted to go first this evening. In reference to the code of ethics and code of procedures, each one of us Commissioners have our own supporters and our own people who voted for us that have their own ideas of what they would like to see done in the City. It doesn’t make any of them right or wrong, but as a governing body we are supposed to be able to get along well enough to try and make a decision. It’s been brought to her attention that we don’t function well as a team together. These are some of the complaints she’s had from the people that did vote her in as well as the rest of them. She doesn’t know that a code of ethics or procedures on paper will fix that, but that’s the first logical step in making that happen. She doesn’t believe that we exercise respect or kindness to each other in any fashion most of the time, and would be surprised if we could make a decision on a dog tag together. That’s how people perceive us and that’s the kind of feedback that she gets. She has held her tongue as long as she can and she thinks that if we all try our best for the people that have voted for us, that it would be really nice if we would try to do that with one another even if we don’t all agree to make the best decisions. That doesn’t mean you can’t be respectful and don’t need to be showboating and that the citizens of Fort Scott and even Bourbon County want the best decisions for everyone that lives here. She thinks that some of the things that goes on and things that are said to one another are completely unnecessary, and having been on the Commission for seven years, she has not experienced this before. She would like for this to be a start for us to get along, but it will take everybody to do the same thing.

She told Ally that she did a great job on her presentation.

Lindsey Watts – Lindsey said that she failed to get something on the agenda for tonight. Last year she was a part of creating a 5K race and 1 mile fun walk on July 4^th. This was a fundraiser for Wreaths Across America and was held in Gunn Park. She asked approval to close Gunn Park to vehicle traffic on July 4^th, 2020 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. to hold this event.

Lindsey Watts made a motion to close Gunn Park on July 4^th, 2020 to vehicle traffic from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for a 5K race and 1 mile fun walk as a fundraiser for Wreaths Across America. JoLynne Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

approved to close Gunn Park on July 4^th, 2020 to vehicle traffic from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for a 5K race and 1 mile fun walk as a fundraiser for Wreaths Across America.

She said that she is checking with other cities on their policies and procedures. What she found so far is in line with what Jeff is proposing.

Similar to JoLynne’s remarks, she thinks the code of ethics is needed. She doesn’t feel like there is any enforcing this in any kind of action other than a censure. Overall, there is a lot of instances where this is a lack of respect with the Commission and City employees, and also amongst the Commission. Some may think it is very mi-nute, but we can do better. We are supposed to be a respectful governing body, and we can do better by respecting each other’s opinions. She thinks she may have made some Commissioners mad by questioning items. Her goal is to do the best for the City.

Kevin Allen – Kevin said that there’s been a lot of talk about disrespect and things of that nature. He doesn’t know if they’re pointing at him or who, and he doesn’t feel like he has disrespected anybody. He’s been very professional and asked questions when they needed asked. He heard the word showboating and he hopes that isn’t directed at him.

JoLynne said she wasn’t directing anything to any specific person.

Kevin said that he doesn’t feel that he has stepped out of line. He feels like things are going good. He said that this is a different Commission. He has seen Commissioners that got along too good. When there are a lot of mixed up votes, it intrigues him. They all want what is best for Fort Scott. They all come from different parts of Fort Scott and come from different walks of life.

Kevin said that he talked to Tim McKenney. Tim is in charge of Fort Scott TV. He does get feedback from people that find it hard to get on the computer. Fort Scott TV is on the local channel. He gave him a sheet notifying him that our meetings could be live on Fort Scott TV for $50.00 a month. The City would need to provide him with our broadband width and what kind of equipment we have. He asked if he needed to make a motion to move forward with this.

City Manager said that he will check with Tim McKenney and see what we need to do to move it forward. If there is a contract to sign, he will bring this back to the next meeting.

Jeff Deane said that we need to make sure the meetings would be archived.

Kevin said that his one last item is that he was adamant last week about getting the City meetings back open. Everything seems to be back open. The Chamber coffees are meeting again, and no one seems to be concerned. He asked about when the next open meeting would be and was told it would be in July. He asked for a special meeting to open this meeting and could not get a quorum. We could not get along. He said that he called Becky Johnson, the Public Health Officer, and she said there are no restrictions – only recommendations of 45 people right now. He would have liked to have seen this meeting open and gotten together to discuss this. He said that Pittsburg, Iola, and Bourbon County are all open. This would have been a great time to get along and work together.

Randy Nichols – Randy said that in relation to COVID, it is not dead. There is an increase in all counties around us. We are much better off to give it another week or two to see where it evolves. We would have been much closer together and could not have socially distanced. If COVID becomes more aggressive, he is concerned with the pool opening and the 4^th of July events. He asked the public to be sure and follow the recommendations.

Pete Allen – Pete asked Jeff Deane after the last executive session at the last meeting, if there had been any progress made on that.

Jeff said that we will discuss the response to the Attorney General’s office shortly. This is due tomorrow. He has done additional research on this item and will have it for him at the next meeting.

He asked about the vouchers for the residents on Andrick Street.

City Manager said he could respond to that under his time.

C. City Attorney: Mr. Deane asked for an Executive Session for the purpose of discussing the City’s official reply to the Attorney General’s office on a Kansas Open Meetings complaint. He requested 10 minutes and include the City Commission and City Attorney.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

L. Watts moved to recess into Executive Session for 10 minutes to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship regarding a legal matter. This session will include the City Commission and City Attorney. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 9:10 P.M.

RECONVENED INTO OPEN SESSION AT 9:20 P.M.

D. City Manager:

Marmaton Massacre – Dave informed the Commission that Frank Halsey is working on having the Marmaton Massacre on July 11^th and 12^th. He will be at our next meeting. He will be following all health requirements needed for this event.

Golf Course Advisory Board – Dave said that this board was approached by a person who has purchased some property by Hole #13 who is wanting to build some houses. There is a line of trees that need to be removed. There is a covenant in place that will need to go before the Planning Commission. They have talked to Doug Guns, Golf Course Superintendent, and he is in approval of the tree removal. The board supported the removal of the trees. This would help our course be better also.

Vouchers – 500 block Andrick – Dave said that this has been looked at very thoroughly. Susan has researched this and the City feels strongly not to offer a utility forgiveness on this rebate. City Staff has come up with a gift card in the amount of $250.00 for the Aquatic Center, Buck Run Community Center rentals/fitness, Woodland Hills Golf Course, dog permits, boat permits, Gunn Park shelter rental/camping, and Memorial Hall rental. The other recommendation is to apply a credit to one of the following utilities: Sewer charges and Stormwater charges. The recommendation is for the City services.

Jeff Deane said that free use of water is prohibited and illegal to offer. He said that the sewer and stormwater charges are a gray area and could leave us open to an allegation of some problem.

R. Nichols moved to authorize the vouchers in the amount of $250.00 to the four addresses to the City amenities and follow the City staff’s recommendation. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO AUTHORIZE A VOUCHER (GIFT CARD) IN THE AMOUNT OF $250.00 TO THE FOUR RESIDENTS IN THE 500 BLOCK OF ANDRICK FOR THE CITY AMENITIES.

ADJOURNMENT:

R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:22 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:22 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on July 7^th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

Fort Scott, Government

FS Commission Agenda for July 7

July 2, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

AGENDA

FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

FORT SCOTT CITY HALL

COMMISSION ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN

JULY 7, 2020

6:00 P.M.

I. ROLL CALL:

K. ALLEN P. ALLEN NICHOLS WATTS MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE:

III. INVOCATION: Pastor

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Recognition of Payden Blythe, Police Officer

Introduction of Nate Stansberry, City Engineer

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 16^th, 2020, special meeting of June 24^th, 2020 and June 30^th, 2020.

Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1266-A totaling $804,125.90.

Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – March port-a-pottie fees – $2,153.00; April $1,911.00; and May $2,153.00 – Totaling $6,217.00.

Request to Pay – Insco Industries – $67,937.35 – Clarifier Painting Project – Water Plant

Request to Pay – Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission – $4,000.00 – Fire Truck Grant

May financials

VI. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

APPEARANCE: Vanessa Poyner – Junior/Senior Prom – Saturday, July 25^th, 2020 – Request for Street Closures: West Oak Street from Judson to National for Walk-In event. Request for parking lot behind Brewhaus Brewery for valet parking. Time requested: 2:00 p.m. to midnight – Waivers will be signed for all attendees and social distancing will be enforced.

Frank Halsey – Marmaton Massacre Event

Terry Sercer – 2019 Audit

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS: (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute limit per citizen)

PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:

VII. CONSIDERATION:

Pool Discussion – Consideration of fees

Consideration of Financial Policy

Consideration of Work Order #9 – Olsson Associates – Fort Scott Municipal Airport – Environmental Assessment

Consideration of Change Order #10 – River Intake Project – Increase of $24,950.00

Consideration of City Auctioneer Bid

Consideration to pay Ace Pipeline

Discussion of First Source Lease

Consideration to remove some of the tree line near Hole #13 at Woodland Hills Golf Course

Consideration to purchase used fairway mower – Golf Course

Consideration to purchase Cushman Utility Cart for Golf Course and sign a four year lease for 30 gas 2020 golf carts from KGT

Discussion of B.C.E.D.C.I. board activities (Pete Allen)

VIII. COMMENTS:

Director Updates:

Commission:

City Attorney:

City Manager:

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE

SESSION FOR ________________________________ IN ORDER TO

(see below justification)

DISCUSS ______________________________________. THE

EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE ___________ MINUTES AND THE OPEN

MEETING TO RESUME AT ________________.

Justifications for Executive Sessions:

Personnel matters of non-elected personnel
Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative or representatives of the body or agency
Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships
Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Health Care

Presbyterian Village Earns Zero-Deficiency Rating

July 2, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Fort Scott Presbyterian Village earns zero-deficiency rating
for assisted living focused infection control survey

FORT SCOTT, Kan. — Fort Scott Presbyterian Village earned a zero-deficiency survey for a focused infection control survey conducted by the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) in June.

Senior living communities are surveyed annually by their licensing agency for compliance of regulations established by KDADS. These regulations are designed to ensure a standard of care is met. By meeting this standard, senior living communities are able to renew their licenses and continue to provide care.

The Kansas Legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly directed KDADS to complete focused infection control surveys for all adult care homes in Kansas by September 30, 2020. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) directed states to perform focused infection control surveys in all skilled nursing facilities by July 31, 2020.

“Every day I see our mission to provide quality senior services guided by Christian values unfold as our employees go above and beyond in the care they provide,” said Ginger Nance, executive director. “At this time, we have had no residents or employees test positive for COVID-19. Our employee screening processes and infection control practices are working to keep COVID-19 out of our campus.”

The focused infection control surveys hone in on an adult care home’s adherence Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance for infection control practices to prevent disease at the community. Communities are assessed on staff and resident education on hand hygiene and coughing/sneezing etiquette, cleaning, screening of employees and residents, effective transmission-based precautions, proper use/discarding of personal protective equipment and signage at entrances and resident rooms. It also examines the facility’s policies and emergency preparedness related to a pandemic or outbreak.

“This recognition is tangible proof of our commitment to providing quality senior care and services based on Christian values. This survey recognizes the hard work this team has put in throughout the COVID-19 crisis,” Nance said. “We will continue to be vigilant as we work with the Bourbon County Health Department on our reopening plan.”

Fort Scott Presbyterian Village is an assisted living community, which means it is licensed by KDADS. Residents have their own private apartments, one or two bedrooms complete with all appliances, and may receive some assistance with activities of daily living.

“Although the restrictions on visitors has been difficult, we have been offering many ways for residents and their family members and friends to stay connected,” Nance said, citing drive-through parades, outdoor fishing and walking paths, and exercise classes offered throughout the pandemic.

For more information about Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, contact Becky Kellum, marketing director, at 620-223-5550 or [email protected].

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Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, a Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America community, has been offering independent and assisted living apartments for seniors from southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri since 1994. Learn more at FortScottPresbyterianVillage.org. Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with 16 locations and 2 hospices in Kansas and Missouri. Learn more at PMMA.org.

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Public Library Youth Summer Reading News

July 1, 2020 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Summer reading is in full-swing, but if you have not signed up for it yet, there’s still time! Just register here and call 620-223-2882 or email Miss Val to arrange pick up of your welcome packet. Specify how many children or teens and what grades you need packets for, when you call or email.

The library hands out packets filled with prizes (earned by reading or completing challenges), along with crafts and activities (for all participants), weekly. Participants should call or email the library every week to schedule a Friday pickup. This week, due to the Independence Day holiday weekend, the library will begin Friday pickups early, starting Thursday, July 2, at 9 am. Call 620-223-2882 or email Miss Val to schedule your pickups. If you need to catch up from past weeks, be sure to let the library staff know.

Letters to the Elderly

The library is partnering with Medicalodges, Fort Scott, in a project designed to connect summer reading families with elderly residents in care at Medicalodge. The library will send out letter stationery, envelopes, and instructions in this week’s craft and activity packets, and will collect the letters throughout the month of July. After quarantining the letters, Miss Val will deliver them to Medicalodges, Fort Scott, for distribution to their residents. Letters should be returned to the library by August 1, and Miss Val hopes to deliver them by August 3. It is the wish of library staff that the project provides comfort, entertainment, and a measure of joy to the residents, and that some of them will write back to the families, perhaps even establishing a connection that will outlast the project.

Free Books & Prizes

The library allows patrons to browse its tubs full of free books, placed on the library lawn outside the north entrance, during curbside pickup hours on days with a clear weather forecast. Youth summer reading participants may also earn books, both pre-owned and new, as prizes for completing weekly reading goals. Other prizes include toys, coupons or gift cards for free food or drinks, craft kits, snacks, dress up accessories, and summer items. The library has already distributed gift cards (as prizes for meeting weekly reading goals) purchased by the library, as well as gift cards and/or coupons donated by the following local business sponsors: Casey’s General Stores, Daylight Donuts, Domino’s Pizza, G & W Cash Saver, Marsha’s Great Plains Deli, Sonic Drive-In, Taco Bell, and Wendy’s. Pete’s Convenience Stores has also pledged a donation, which is expected to arrive soon.

Storyteller Will Stuck

From 8 am, July 18 through late night, July 23, Fort Scott Public Library will offer two video performances by Storyteller Will Stuck, provided as a part of the library’s summer reading program. Will Stuck has created one performance for preschoolers and another for elementary-aged children, inspired by this year’s summer reading theme. You may access the videos through the library’s Facebook page, showing on this playlist from July 18 – 23.

Community Members Read & Craft for Summer Reading

On this playlist, you will find local retired and current teachers, parents, librarians, and other professionals, who have already read stories or demonstrated crafts for this year’s summer reading program. The videos will remain online through the last day of summer reading, August 5.

Upcoming Programs:

July 7 – 10 am: Mixed-Up Tales Preschool Stories with educator Alexandra VanSickle (Zoom)

11 am: Mythological Villains Elementary Stories with educator Alexandra VanSickle (Zoom)