There will be a Special Meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission held at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, December 30th, 2019 at the City Hall Commission Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. It is anticipated the City Commission will convene into Executive Session to conduct this meeting.
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY COMMISSION ROOM
123 S. MAIN STREET
FORT SCOTT, KANSAS 66701
9:30 A.M.
I. ROLL CALL:
ADAMSON BARTELSMEYER NICHOLS MITCHELL PARKER
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
“After almost a full year of providing services in Ft. Scott, the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas wanted to take one last look at preserving the hospital building that was built to last through several generations. As you can imagine, transitioning almost 75 people and five clinics in a few short months was a very daunting task a year ago and, at the time, we were concerned about making it as seamless as possible. We were aware that our lease was only two years and that a long-term solution needed to be found and the easiest approach was to build from ground up. We have indeed started that process.
However, one can’t spend any time in Ft. Scott without realizing the impact the Sisters of Mercy have had on the community over the last century and how much their hospital meant to everyone – especially those who donated toward building it. With a year of history in the building, we thought it wise before we invested $5 million in building a new clinic, to evaluate what the actual costs of keeping the hospital building open have been. Without many of the services a hospital provides, the cost appears to have been far less than originally projected. In the meantime, there has been renewed interest in using portions of the space for health-related purposes as evidenced by the meeting held in Ft. Scott a few weeks ago.
As a result, CHC/SEK is doing a feasibility study to determine exactly what it will take to preserve the facility from destruction. We have approached the Mercy System about the possibility of acquiring the building and they have responded positively. At this point, everything is very preliminary and no formal ask has been made.
This is something we can’t do alone. We have also approached other possible major tenants in the building including Ascension/Via Christi and may have enough to sustain and maintain the facility. Again, everything is in the discussion stages with no firm commitments or contracts. We will also be talking with the city and county over the next few weeks. The last thing we want to do is raise false hopes so please know this is just an evaluation of what may be possible.
I will be presenting a recommendation to my Board at their January 16th meeting. Time is of the essence so a decision whether to formally approach the Mercy System for the donation must be made prior to February 1. Two building projects have already been initiated for a new clinic and an new ER and decisions have to be made quickly if we are going to reverse course. That leaves little time to work out all the details and talk with everyone so my apologies to anyone who we may miss over the next few weeks.
We do want people to be aware of our efforts and will be happy to talk to anyone with an interest that we haven’t already spoken with. The concept of a ‘medical mall’ is a promising one but, at this point, is only an idea. The best way to reach me is via email at [email protected].”
The City of Fort Scott Administrative offices will be closed on Wednesday, January 1st, 2020 in observance of the New Year’s Day Holiday. The regular offices will reopen on Thursday, January 2nd, 2020.
Sarah Jane Tribble, a writer for Kaiser Health News, posted another of her series of features on the closing of Mercy Hospital Fort Scott one year ago.
The following is an excerpt:
“A year ago, after Mercy gave a 90-day notice that it would close, City Manager Dave Martin said the betrayal felt by city leaders led to lawyers and calls with other health care systems about taking over the facility. Now, Martin has realized ‘we will not have ― or do we need ― a hospital.'”
Fort Scott native Dr. Grant Hartman has joined the staff of Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas in Pittsburg and will be seeing patients starting in January.
He will see patients in Pittsburg on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and Wednesdays in CHC/SEK’s Fort Scott clinic at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling 620.240.5679.
Dr. Hartman is a graduate of Pittsburg State University with a BS in biology, and Logan College of Chiropractic in Chesterfield, MO.
He has owned and operated Hartman Spine & Joint in Fort Scott since August 2015.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the team at CHC/SEK,” Dr. Hartman said in a press release. “I’m inspired by their mission to provide care to all, and their total, holistic approach to health care. Chiropractic medicine provides extensive pain management solutions equipping patients to achieve better health through wellness and it’s very exciting to see CHC/SEK recognize that medications are not always the answer to a patient’s pain. Working in conjunction with the primary care doctors to treat patients with acute and chronic pain will be one of my focuses there.”
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas Clinic, 401 Woodland Hills, just off Hwy. 69 south of Fort Scott.
He will be working within CHC/SEK’s Wellness Department, which also employs a full-time physical therapist, wellness coordinator, and a wellness services assistant, according to the press release. Personalized treatment and exercise programs are designed around each patient’s physical deficiencies or needs, and patients are encouraged to develop goals based on their unique personal requirements.
Gary Palmer, who has been in the photography business for several decades in Bourbon County, is selling his business and taking a new career path.
“Over the last 25 years I had the pleasure to serve the community of Fort Scott and the surrounding area with professional photography, portraiture, graphic design, printing and host of other services at Captured Images,” Palmer said in a press release.
Captured Images has defined Palmer for many years, he said.
Gary Palmer submitted photo
“However, it is time for another to take the reign of the studio,” he said. “It is my hope that someone will acquire Captured Images and continue its tradition of outstanding service to the community.”
“Rest assured, regardless of what the future holds for Captured Images, I and my wife Kylene are fully prepared to fulfill every and all obligation previously committed by the studio,” he said.
All school pictures and yearbooks that Captured Images completes will still be completed by the Palmers at the studio.
All weddings and ‘Watch-Me-Grow’ baby programs will still have Palmer taking the portraits until the completion of the programs. Whether it be a school dance, the school yearbook, sports photography, etc., for all commitments, Captured Images will fulfill every obligation through the 2019-2020 school year, according to the press release.
The new decade has brought a new opportunity for Palmer.
He has formal education in business administration and marketing. He also has exercised leadership in many civic and private roles in various capacities during his time at Captured Images. He has completed leadership training at the Kansas Leadership Center and has been allowed to utilize his skills in marketing, human resource management, and leadership in another industry, according to the press release.
But now he will be working for Dirk’s Dozing and Excavation Company, Butler, MO.
“I will continue to live in Fort Scott,” Palmer said. ” I have always been a strong advocate for Fort Scott and the great people here. I plan to continue to be involved in our great community in various capacities. I will be commuting to my new job.”
“Our farm, Freedom Farms, is growing and we are hopeful to use the sale of the studio and the coffee shop building to grow our farm operation,” he said.
Palmer will be the chief administrative and marketing officer for Dirk’s Dozing and Excavation Company.
Dirk’s currently services are heavy equipment site work and construction preparation.
“The Dirk’s business services much of the Kansas City Metro area with site preparation and construction,” Palmer said. They also specialize in pond building, municipality water and sanitary sewer systems, and site preparation for major construction projects.”
“I’m excited to be a part of a thriving industry,” Palmer said. “The Dirk’s business is growing exponentially and I’m honored to utilize my skill’s in business administration to create a team of highly skilled operators to perform tasks that will impact the growth of local communities.”
Marketing the Dirk’s business is also a primary role for Palmer.
Thanks To Customers
“I would like to take an opportunity to thank every one of my customers over the years,” Palmer said. ” Each of you has trusted Captured Images to record your engagements, weddings, the birth of a newborn baby, your family groups, senior portraits, special occasions, and memorable events. Each event you have allowed me to memorialize precious moments-in-time, forever, in print form. This is not a task I have taken lightly. Getting to know my customers through all of life’s amazing moments is an honor. Often I have laughed, cried, and shared in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Moments that make customers, family. I am honored to have provided professional experience along with high-quality printed portraits to my clients for many years. I hope I have created a lasting impact on those we served. I’m excited about the next phase of my career. On behalf of my family, I am extremely grateful for your patronage over the years.”
Coffee Shop Building For Sale Also
Common Grounds Coffee Company, 116 S. Main.
The Palmer’s will also be selling the building where the current Common Grounds Coffee Shop is located in downtown Fort Scott, next to his studio.
“It has 7,000 square feet with a full basement,” he said. “When the coffee shop moves location, it will be available for tenants.”
“It is a turn-key operation and up to code,” he said. “There are rental properties on the second floor. This is an excellent opportunity for owner-operators or investors.”
The Common Grounds Coffee Shop is owned by the Fort Scott Nazarene Church and will move to 12 E. Wall as soon as the building renovation is complete, possibly in January, according to the building owner, Jennifer LaRoche.
Contact Palmer at 620.223.5375 for more information.
Editors note: Due to technical difficulties the feature did not include part of the written story. Here is the complete story.
The LaRoche buildings located at 10 and 12 E. Wall. Jennifer LaRoche is the owner and contractor for the renovation of the two historic buildings in downtown Fort Scott. The two copper signs on the Wall Street side, one of the Tribune Monitor Newspaper and one of the Kansas Gas and Electric will be restored and lighted when all is complete, LaRoche said.
Business owner Jennifer LaRoche opened her buildings that are in the process of renovation, to the public for what was called a “Sneak Peek” on Dec. 18.
The buildings are located at 10 and 12 E. Wall St.
This was in celebration of Fort Scott’s downtown district’s historic designation 10th anniversary. Kate Sweetser, one of the original workers on the designation spoke to the attendees of the history of the designation.
12 E. Wall: Coffee Shop
The building which most recently housed the Fort Scott Tribune newspaper office, has been empty for a few years.
In January, the easternmost, one-story building at 12 E. Wall is slated to become the new location of Common Ground Coffee Company. The dimensions of the building are approximately 30 foot by 100 feet, LaRoche said
The coffee shop has two restrooms and a conference room along with an open space for drinking coffee and having a meal.
In addition, there is an outdoor seating area with a stage that is in the back of the adjacent building that will be a part of the coffee shop. The outdoor seating will be accessed through an opening in the coffee shop.
Vicki Waldron will remain the manager of Common Ground.
Kate Sweetser, center left, looks at the transom windows in the building at 12 E. Wall, as building owner, Jennifer LaRoche tells of the renovation of the original windows. Some glass was replaced by Gammon Glass, Nevada, MO. she said.
Kate Sweetser visits with Kirk Sharp during the LaRoche Buildings Sneak Peak on Dec. 18.Though nearing completion, the LaRoche building at 10 E. Wall, still has much to do, Jennifer LaRoche said during the “Sneak Peek” on Dec. 18. The public was invited to the event.The ceiling at 10 E. Wall is 80 percent original, LaRoche said. It was formerly covered by a drop-down ceiling prior to the renovation. LaRoche purchased the needed replacements from W.F. Norman Corp., Nevada, MO who still produces the same tile.Pictured is the future stage and outdoor seating space at the rear of 12 E. Wall, which will be accessed through the coffee shop at 10 E. Wall.Pictured is the significantly larger kitchen that will be available to the Common Ground Coffee Shop staff when completed.
10 E. Wall
At 10 E. Wall which is next on the list for completion, there will be an office on the first floor for LaRoche, upstairs there will be two apartments and E 3 Ranch Offices. On the National Avenue side of the building will be three storefronts, she said.
“I don’t know what is going in there yet,” LaRoche said.
Casper Enterprise, Stoughton Inc., Allen Electric, Extrusions Inc. and Mid-Continental Restoration Co. have all done work for LaRoche on the project.
LaRoche: Not Done Renovating
LaRoche said she will take a break following the completion of the renovation project.
But she is not done renovating.
“I really love uncovering all the things people have covered up,” LaRoche said. “I love making it look like it did in the pictures 100 years ago.
Luther Salisberry of the new Luther’s BBQ stands in front of the signs on the building and the door of the new restaurant on Dec. 12.
David Lipe and Luther Salisberry are the owners of Luther’s BBQ, which opened at the corner of Oak Street and National Avenue on Fort Scott’s northside this week.
The restaurant crew is working on a few “kinks” in the process of opening, according to its’ Facebook page, but had a “soft opening” on Dec. 16.
Hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, except Sunday when the restaurant will close at 7 p.m.
The phone number of the business is 620-644-9880.
Approximately 30 employees have been hired, both full and part-time, according to Tina Lipe, David’s wife.
Lipe and Salisberry have signed a five-year lease from building owner Al Niece which includes the River Room Event Center on the second floor of the historic building.
To rent the River Room contact David Lipe at 816-392-2825.
The new restaurant will seat about 150 people, while the River Room Event Center about 500, Lipe said in an earlier interview.
Luther’s BBQ restaurant is located at the corner of Oak Street and National Avenue on Fort Scott’s northside. The River Room Event Center is located on the second floor.
The restaurant’s specialty will be burnt ends and additional food specials during the week, Lipe said.
Also available will be pork chops, ribs, steaks, smoked brisket, and pulled pork, he said.
Mirrored after Q39 and Stack Jack Restaurants in the Kansas City area, they hope to make it a gourmet, upper-end style barbeque, Lipe said.
The door of Luther’s BBQ has opened to the public.From left is Alex Hudson/general manager of Luther’s BBQ, Luther Salisberry/owner, David Lipe/owner. Submitted photo.
Special thanks to Jennifer LaRoche for offering this Sneak Peek as part of celebrating 10 years, to the day, of Fort Scott’s Downtown Historic District being accepted for listing in the National Register of Historic Places on December 18, 2009.
The 110-year-old building with a stone facade is an excellent example of historic restoration done right ~ a meticulous attention to detail which will help ensure it will be a viable venue for another century & beyond.
The building has been empty for several years and after extensive restoration will become the new location of Common Ground Coffee Co. in early 2020.
