Category Archives: Fort Scott

Fort Scott Dragoons Announce 2026 Season Schedule

Fort Scott Dragoons Announce 2026 Season Schedule

FORT SCOTT, KS – The Fort Scott Dragoons have officially released their 2026 season schedule, featuring a summer packed with competitive baseball and family-friendly entertainment. After starting the season on the road, the Dragoons will host their Opening Night in Fort Scott on May 26.

The upcoming season highlights include:

Competitive Matchups: Key games against the Meridian Blues, Bryan Yard Dogs, and Nacogdoches Niners.

Fan Experience: A full slate of promotions, theme nights, and premium seating options.

Community Focus: Affordable entertainment designed for youth teams, businesses, churches, and local organizations.

Mid America League Action: The league features talented collegiate and professional players dedicated to community connection.


2026 Home Game Schedule

All home games are scheduled to begin at 7:05 PM.

Date Day Opponent
May 26 TUE Meridian Blues
May 27 WED Meridian Blues
May 28 THUR Meridian Blues
May 29 FRI Bryan Yard Dogs
May 30 SAT Bryan Yard Dogs
May 31 SUN Bryan Yard Dogs
June 2 TUE Nacogdoches Niners
June 3 WED Nacogdoches Niners
June 9 TUE Beaumont Oil Barons
June 10 WED Beaumont Oil Barons
June 11 THUR Beaumont Oil Barons
June 12 FRI Bryan Yard Dogs
June 13 SAT Bryan Yard Dogs
June 14 SUN Bryan Yard Dogs
June 16 TUE Piney Woods Timberhogs
June 17 WED Piney Woods Timberhogs
June 18 THUR Nacogdoches Niners
June 19 FRI Nacogdoches Niners
June 20 SAT Nacogdoches Niners
June 21 SUN Nacogdoches Niners
June 30 TUE Piney Woods Timberhogs
July 1 WED Piney Woods Timberhogs
July 2 THUR Piney Woods Timberhogs
July 14 TUE Nacogdoches Niners
July 15 WED Nacogdoches Niners
July 16 THUR Nacogdoches Niners
July 17 FRI Bryan Yard Dogs
July 18 SAT Bryan Yard Dogs
July 19 SUN Bryan Yard Dogs
July 21 TUE Bryan Yard Dogs
July 22 WED Bryan Yard Dogs
July 23 THUR Bryan Yard Dogs
Plan Your Summer: Fans and organizations are encouraged to secure group outings early to ensure availability. Additional promotional announcements will be released in the coming weeks.

April 7, 2026 City of Fort Scott Commission Meeting Unapproved Minutes

Fort Scott City Hall

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of April 7, 2026

Regular Meeting

A 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 Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, Julie Buchta and Mayor Kathryn Salsbury were present.

              In AttendanceBrad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Deputy Chief Mike Miles/FSFD, Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Lisa Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Mary Wyatt/Planning, Housing & Business Development Director, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspections LLC, Daniel Wilson/Owner-Repair Guy, Alex Swank, Kathy Dancer, and Jess Milburn/JCM Restoration.

SALSBURY led the Pledge of Allegiance and BUCHTA said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

Approval of Agenda

MOTIONDANCER moved to approve the Amended agenda as presented. SALSBURY seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1405-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of

March 11, 2026 – April 12, 2026 – $763,783.28

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of March 17, 2026

–  Request to Pay – Application No. 1 – Jeff Asbell Excavating & Trucking, Inc. – Davis Lift Station – Mobilization Costs for Bond Expenses and Materials – $28,596.00

MOTIONVAN HOECKE moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Public Comment – No comments

Appearances

Alex Swank – addressed the Commission to purchase a parcel owned by the City at approximately 101 Clark. Leasing option was discussed because the City maintains it will not sell property.

MOTION:  DANCER moved to open the process to solicit bids for a (5) year lease with the stipulation to include something to legally cover any liability.

FARMER added a point of reference that even though the motion is made, nothing happens until it’s written, the Commission has seen it, (the winning bidder) sees it, and it’s signed.

BUCHTA seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes.

VAN HOECKE voted no.

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

ACTIONFARMER will write the lease document.

Kathy Dancer – addressed the Commission to inform them that the tasks placed upon the CLG board will require a budget and she is requesting they consider that in the upcoming 2027 budget planning. The FSHRPC is exploring grants but the ordinance that was approved did include the establishment of a Preservation Fund and briefly explained how that money would be used. DANCER also stated the fine frequencies outlined in the approved ordinance. Currently in the enforcement section, the wording only addresses the demolition of a building or does any kind of improvements without getting the proper permitting and proper approvals, then it’s enforceable. She does not see provisions to enforce outside of that. Also, the wording is incorrect. It was approved as per week but the ordinance states per day. She explained that violations demolition by neglect, gross neglect of a building or safety hazards are a different category and are not in the current ordinance. She asked the Commission to revisit that and the frequency of fining, with safety issues being of the greatest concern.

Discussion was had about the fining process as it relates to enforcement through the municipal court and addressing additional definitions to be included in the ordinance.

KRUGER stated that anything that is going to be enforced must be paired with a K.S.A. and the state sets the fine schedule per class of crime, the maximums and the minimums. He stated that Class B Misdemeanor does not go up to $1000.00, the maximum is $500.00 and the minimum is $50.00. Currently no fine amount is put on a citation only a Notice to Appear (in court) and the prosecutor will set the fine amount. He explained how the multiple (day to week) fines currently work in our municipal court and what is able to be fined and what is not.

Executive Session:

MOTION:  DANCER moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters of non-elected personnel pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, City Attorney and City Manager. The open meeting will resume in the City Commission Room at 6:43PM. SALSBURY seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

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

            MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Unfinished Business

Consideration of Ordinance No. 3799-Contractor LicenseTabled from March 17, 2026

Discussion was had about the implementation of contractor licenses. BUCHTA read a letter she received from Tim Barasa/General Contractor and Licensed Realtor.

WILSON/Owner of Repair Guy addressed the Commission to inform them that he is in favor of a licensing program but has concerns about the contractor board that is being considered and where the money collected for licenses will go and suggested background checks for community safety.

BUCHTA read a text message she received from another contractor (who wanted to remain anonymous) regarding the licensing.

Further discussion was had on the intent of the license to protect citizens and support all local businesses and whether the Commission is in agreement with the proposed ordinance.

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to table the ordinance.

VAN HOECKE requested to amend BUCHTA’S motion to have the ordinance returned to the table at the second meeting of July with a work session prior to that meeting to include all contractors.

VAN HOECKE seconded (the original motion with amendment).

The City Clerk verified that BUCHTA’S motion was as follows:

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to table Ordinance No. 3799 until the second meeting of July. VAN HOECKE seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

ACTION:  FARMER will draft an ordinance for the interim to enforce that contractors must show proof of insurance when applying for a permit with the Codes office.

DANCER left the meeting at 7:20PM 

New Business

Action Items:

Consideration of Ordinance No. 3798 – Disband Design Review Board

DILLON requested by ordinance that the Commission dissolve the Design Review Board since the City has received its CLG status.

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve Ordinance No. 3798 to Disband the Design Review Board. SALSBURY seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS and SALSBURY voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no. DANCER was not present for the vote.

MOTION CARRIED 3-1.

Consideration to Approve Sale of Fire Truck

MILES requested the approval of the Commission to advertise and sell the 1997 (E-One-American Eagle Top Mount Custom Pumper) Fire Truck which is no longer in service and has been replaced with the newly purchase truck. MATKIN stated the proceeds will be placed in a fire department equipment fund.

DANCER returned to the meeting at 7:23PM

MILES stated that the new engine is at Station One and the Pierce was moved over to Station Two and explained the plan to avoid wear and tear.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to allow the fire department to advertise and sell the 1997 fire truck without equipment with the understanding that the funds will go into a fire equipment fund and report the proceeds to the City Manager who will report it to the Commission.

MILES added that the proceeds are being earmarked for extrication equipment.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consideration to Approve Purchase of Pumps, Control Panel and Guide Rails for Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations$25,860.00

LEMKE stated that over the past (3) years they have been working on improvements for lift stations. This year, Williamsburg (on Tiffany Land) and White Grill Lift Stations (215th and Hwy 54) were selected. Williamsburg’s control panel is approximately (20) years old and the components are getting harder to find. It currently has one pump that is non-operational. The White Grill station has been underwater several times including the control panel. Currently one of the pumps is bypassing and not pumping water. He is requesting permission to replace the control panels and the pumps for both stations using Haynes Equipment for the price of $25,860.00. Grainger’s quote did not include guide rails and the third contact could only offer a complete lift station which is not needed. The work will be done in house, however Haynes has included a one-day startup time if they need assistance. MATKIN stated it will come from the Wastewater Fund.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the purchase of pumps, control panels and guide rails for Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations from Haynes Equipment for a total of $25,860.00. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consideration of Bids for Repair of Retaining Walls at Gunn Park

MATKIN stated there were (2) bids received with the lowest bid coming in at $66,000.00 from JCM Restoration which he is recommending for approval.

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the bid from JCM Restoration for $66,000.00 for repairing the retaining wall at Gunn Park. BUCHTA seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consideration to Extend Hay Rights for (3) Years

MATKIN stated that currently the invitation for bids is for a (1) year awarded contract. He would like to extend that to a (3) year contract beginning with this year’s invitation to bid for Hay Rights at the airport.

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to approve the extension of the hay rights to (3) years at the next bid opportunity. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Reports and Comments      

City Engineer:

            –  Davis Lift Station update – Vanessa is supervisor until lift station work, then Gary

            –  Wall Street – CCLIP update

VAN HOECKE left the meeting at 7:49PM and immediately returned.

            –  Horton asphalt update

ACTION:  DICKMAN will follow up with Heck & Wicker

City Attorney:  No Comment

City Manager:

–  8th & Eddy is complete and open

            –  Groundwork for outdoor fitness park at BRCC

–  New Clubhouse Manager at Woodland Hills Golf Course and new tee time system that allows everything, including score keeping by your phone-including POS system.

–  Moody Building – owner waiting on title report

–  Airport hangar lease – Geoffrey Marr

–  Timken building update

–  Valu building is sold – cannot disclose information yet

–  IT Department at next meeting for update

–  Public Works update first meeting in May

–  April 16 – City/County Meeting at 6:00PM

–  Natalia hired to work with Rachel Carpenter on Public Information

Commissioner Van Hoecke:

            –  Dragoons Baseball season tickets

–  Keep military and first responders in prayers

Commissioner Buchta:

            –  8th & Eddy

–  Salsbury with KDOT             

Commissioner Dancer:

            –  Non-residential residents situation

ACTION:  WORK SESSION – May 5 – Homeless situation

WORK SESSION – May 19 – Contractor licenses 

Commissioner Wells:

            –  Barber Shop (118 E. Wall St.) update

ACTION:  Barber Shop on next agenda (April 21)

–  Skubitz Plaza meeting at 1:30PM

–  Federal government cuts

Commissioner Salsbury:

            –  Code review sent to MATKIN for Commission action

ACTION:  MATKIN will distribute to all Commissioners

–  8th & Eddy intersection open

Adjourn

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:27PM. BUCHTA seconded.

APRIL 7, 2026, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:27PM.

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis/City Clerk

Downtown Spring Clean-Up Help beautify Downtown Fort Scott!

Downtown Spring Clean-Up 2026

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to host 2026 Downtown Spring Clean-Up

Help beautify Downtown Fort Scott

Volunteers WANTED!
Individuals, Groups, & Families

Wednesday, April 15th
Volunteer Check-in: 3:30-4pm @ Lyons Realty Group, 8 E. Wall St.
Event: 4-7pm @ Downtown Fort Scott

Downtown Spring Clean-Up details

We have many projects planned including painting, leaf blowing, planting, mulching, general trash pickup, and more!

Visit fortscott.com for the volunteer signup link and all the details!

FREE pulled pork sandwich meal following the event for the first 150 confirmed volunteers!

A special thank you to The Elks Foundation for supporting this event!

Event sponsor

Organized by the Chamber Board’s Downtown Division, in partnership with the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County Garden Club, and the Good Neighbor Action Team.

Chamber Downtown Division

  • Cheryl Adamson, Chair, Courtland Hotel & Spa
  • Cathy Bishop, The River Room Event Center
  • Carissa Bowman, Brickstreet BBQ
  • Kate Freeman, The Artificers
  • Kinede Jennings, Blissful Aesthetics & Wellness
  • Karen Wilterding, Lowell Milken Center
  • James Wood, DBB Inc. & Holmtown Pub
  • Rachel Carpenter, representing City of Fort Scott

Special thanks to Craig Campbell of GNAT and Barb McCord of Bourbon County Garden Club for all of your assistance with this event, and to Bailey Lyons for use of Lyons Realty Group as the check-in location.

Event partner

First Southern Baptist’s SPRING CRAFT SHOW is April 10

 

Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

First Southern Baptist Church

Kick off spring at First Southern Baptist’s

SPRING

CRAFT SHOW!

April 10th
8am-5pm

April 11th
8am-3pm

@ 1818 South Main St.

(across from Briggs Auto)

31 vendors confirmed

Shop a wide variety of handmade, boutique,

and one-of-a-kind finds!

Church sponsored meals:

Homemade Chicken Noodle Dinner – $10

(includes mashed potatoes, homemade chicken noodles, green beans, homemade roll, and 2 cookies)

Pulled Pork Sandwich – $10

(includes baked beans and 2 cookies)

** DINE IN, CARRY OUT, OR CALL FOR DELIVERY (2+ MEALS) AVAILABLE!

Delivery times

Friday: 10:30am-5pm

Saturday 10:30am -3pm

Questions?

417-262-3948 or 620-215-3202

Click HERE to visit the

First Southern Baptist Church

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

First Southern Baptist Church

Website!

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Conta

Fort Scott Stories is more than a film

Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

The Gordon Parks Museum

You’ve never seen Fort Scott like this before…Be part of something powerful. Be part of our story.

The premiere of Fort Scott Stories is more than a film. It’s a moving look at the heart, history, and people that make our community what it is today ❤️

From youth to elders, business owners to community leaders… this is Fort Scott. Raw, real, and unforgettable.

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Doors Open: 6:30 PM

Film Begins: 7:00 PM

📍 Gordon Parks Museum (Ellis Fine Arts Building)

FREE Admission

(Donations are welcome)

Cash Bar Available

Click HERE to reserve your seat!

Seats will fill quickly. Don’t miss this unforgettable night celebrating the soul of Fort Scott!

Watch the Fort Scott Stories trailer by clicking the button below ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO TRAILER

Click HERE to visit the

The Gordon Parks Museum

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

The Gordon Parks Museum

Website!

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott April 3 Edition

What’s Happening in Fort Scott April 3rd Edition!

🚎 Historic Trolley Tours are Back!

Ride Dolly the Trolley and explore Fort Scott’s history

with a narrated tour.

Fridays & Saturdays – Now Boarding!

Ready to grow your business?

Don’t miss this destination marketing workshop!

Featured Speaker

👤 Jon Schallert

Nationally recognized expert in helping businesses become “Consumer Destinations”

Stop blending in – learn how to stand out and attract customers from miles away!

REGISTER FOR JOHN SCHALLERT WORKSHOP HERE

RADIO AUCTION Every Wednesday & Thursday

Click HERE for details!

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

FS Public Library

*Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30-3pm

201 S. National Ave.

Kansas Small Business Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 9am-3pm.

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

Want more details or updates Community, Chamber, and Member events?

You can find full dates, times, locations, and links on our community calendar on the Chamber’s website at:

👉 fortscott.com/events/calendar/

WEEKEND EVENTS

Saturday, April 4th thru Monday, April 13th

🗓️ Saturday, April 4

🚋 Trolley Tour of Historic Fort Scott

⏰11 AM–2 PM (tours on the hour)

📍 Departs from Chamber, 231 E. Wall

📝 50-minute narrated tour of historic sites

🐰 Fort Scott Church of the Nazarene Easter Eggstravaganza

⏰ 10 AM

📍 FSN Church, 1728 Horton St.

🐰POST-PONED due to weather – be on the look out for make up date & info!

Virgil Mobile Mechanic’s Grand Re-Opening

⏰ 12 PM – 2 PM

📍 Virgil’s New Location

1217 S. Clark St.

🎭 FSHS Thespians Rummage Sale

(Day 2)

⏰ 8 AM – 12 PM

📍 Fort Scott High School

🏇 A & W Spring Classic Ladies Breakaway Roping

⏰ 12 PM

📍Arndt Ranch Indoor Arena

1795 Highway 54 Fort Scott, KS

Located 4 miles West of Fort Scott @ National Trailer Source

🐰FSRD Easter Eggstravaganza

⏰ 3 AM – 5 PM

📍 Buck Run Community Center

735 S. Scott St.

⛪ Bethel Community Baptist Church Easter-Story Biblical Drama

⏰10:30 AM

📍Bethel Community Baptist Church

1397 155th St., Fort Scott, KS

💸 Free Event

🗓️ Tuesday, April 7th

🚜 Farmers Market Vendors’ Meeting

⏰6 PM – 8 PM

📍HBCAT Office, 104 N. National Ave

(Front side of Brickstreet BBQ – facing National Ave.)

🗓️ Wednesday, April 8th

⛳ Par-tee Girls Golf League ~

Pre-season golf Lessons

⏰5:30 PM

📍Woodland Hills Golf Course

💸$20 per lesson

🗓️ Thursday, April 9

☕ Chamber Coffee hosted by KOMB/KMDO Home Show

⏰ 8 AM

📍 FSCC – Arnold Arena

⚾Senior-versity Day At The Ballpark

⏰ 1-3 PM

📍 FSCC Lions Baseball Field

(off 18th St.)

🗓️ Friday, April 10

🚋 Trolley Tour of Historic Fort Scott

⏰11 AM–2 PM (tours on the hour)

📍 Departs from Chamber, 231 E. Wall

📝 50-minute narrated tour of historic sites

🧵Spring Craft Fair (Day 1)

⏰8 AM – 5 PM

📍First Southern Baptist Church

1818 South Main St.

🐎 South East Kansas Spring Classic Livestock Show (Day 1)

⏰Registration: 1-3pm Start Time: 5pm

📍Bourbon County Fairgrounds

🧑‍🎨Artist Opening Reception: Wildlife Art Exhibit feat. Sheila Jones, Master Artist & Brenda Morgan, Guest Artist

⏰6 PM – 9 PM

📍The Artificers, 8 N. National Ave.

🗓️ Saturday, April 11

🚋 Trolley Tour of Historic Fort Scott

⏰10 AM–2 PM (tours on the hour)

📍 Departs from Chamber, 231 E. Wall

📝 50-minute narrated tour of historic sites

🧵Spring Craft Fair (Day 2)

⏰8 AM – 3 PM

📍First Southern Baptist Church

1818 South Main St.

🐎 South East Kansas Spring Classic Livestock Show (Day 2)

⏰Registration: 6-8am Start Time: 10am

📍Bourbon County Fairgrounds

🧑‍🎨 Master Artist Water Color Class with Sheila Jones

⏰10 AM – 12 PM

📍The Artificers, 8 N. National Ave.

🪨 Kansas Rocks Recreation Park ~ Recovery & Ride
Learn some recovery skills and go ride the park with the pros.

⛳FSHS Boys Golf Team Car Wash Fundraiser

⏰8 AM – 12 PM

📍Typhoon Bay Car Wash

🧑‍🌾2026 Home Sport Farm & Garden Show by KOMB/KMDO 103.9FM –

Fort Scott Broadcasting

⏰ 9 AM – 3 PM

📍 FSCC – Arnold Arena

🗓️ Monday, April 13th

💼 Destination Creation Workshop by Jon Schallert

⏰ 8:30 AM – 2 PM

📍The River Room Event Center

3 W. Oak St.

💸 $50 (in Bourbon county)

💸 $75 (Out-of-County)

🔗 MUST Register – Click HERE to RSVP!

 

✅ See more events & details:

https://fortscott.com/events

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.

Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!

Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.

Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?

Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!

Seeking a job/career?

We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.

Many opportunities available!

Housing needs?

Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.

Click here for our rental listing.

SAVE THE DATE / GET REGISTERED NOW!

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBERS!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall Street
Fort Scott, KS 66701

City of Fort Scott Commission Meeting Minutes from March 17, 2026

Fort Scott City Hall.

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of March 17, 2026 Regular Meeting

A 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 Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, Julie Buchta and Mayor Kathryn Salsbury were present.

In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Chief Dave Bruner/FSFD, Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Lisa Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspections LLC, Ben Hart/BakerTilly (by phone), Darrin Petrowski/KDOT, Michael Hoyt, Patrick Wood, Geoffrey Marr, Dilynn Marr, Anita Walden/Freeman, Kevin Allen, Doug Eden .

SALSBURY led the Pledge of Allegiance and BUCHTA said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

Approval of Agenda

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the agenda with the amendment of removal of Unfinished Business/Item A Consideration to Initiate Contractor License. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

Consent Agenda
– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1404-A – Expense Approval Report-Payment Dates of February 25, 2026 – March 10, 2026 – $1,270,095.98
– Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of March 3, 2026
– February Financials

Public Comment
Geoffrey Marr addressed the Commission regarding the airplane hangar currently owned by the City. He would like to lease or purchase it and fix it up and negotiate a long lease instead of it being torn down.

ACTION: MATKIN will meet with MARR regarding an arrangement.

Anita Walden addressed the Commission to introduce herself as the Chief Administrative Officer at the new Freeman Hospital. She also thanked the City for their continued support.

Kevin Allen addressed the Commission in hopes to comment on the KDOT maintenance agreement specifically on Wall Street.

Appearances
Garth Herrmann/Gilmore & Bell – HERRMANN could not be present. HART presented Resolution No. 17-2026 Authorizing and Providing for the Construction Sanitary Sewer Pumping Station Improvements and Providing for the Payment of the Costs. He stated that there will be another Resolution in the future.

MOTION: WELLS moved to approve the Resolution. SALSBURY seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Darrin Petrowski/KDOT – PETROWSKI addressed the Commission regarding KDOT Maintenance Agreement on Hwy 69 and Hwy 54.

New Business
Public Hearing:
Vacation of Street and Alleys – Doug Eden – Consideration of Petition to Repeal Ordinance No. 3579 and Approve Ordinance No. 3796 – Vacation of Street and Alleys

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

FARMER left the meeting at 6:58PM and returned at 7:00PM.

EDEN presented his petition to vacate the north-south alley. It was recommended that the prior ordinance (No. 3579) be repealed and replaced with Ordinance No. 3796 addressing the vacation of Durkee Street, the east-west alley and the north-south alley for clarity.

MOTION: WELLS moved to close the public hearing. VAN HOECKE seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

MOTION: DANCER moved to approve the vacation. After having heard all the testimony on said petition on the 17TH day of MARCH, 2026 and all necessary information in order to fully understand the true nature of this petition, the City Commission of the City of Fort Scott, upon motion of DANCER and seconded by BUCHTA, passed and approved to repeal Ordinance No. 3579 and the petition of the Petitioner to and vacate the platted Durkee Street located between Lots 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, Block 4 and Lots 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19,21, 23, 25, 27, Block 2, all in Durkee and Stout’s Addition to the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas; AND the alley running East and West through Lots 1-28, Block 2, Durkee and Stout’s Addition to the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas; AND the alley running North and South along the East side of Lots 27 & 28, Block 2, Durkee and Stout’s Addition to the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas. BUCHTA seconded. (Excerpt of Minutes of the same but separate document was submitted to Bourbon County Deeds for recording of the vacation).

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Action Items:
Consideration of Resolution No. 16-2026 and MELPA – Firetruck Financing

MOTION: WELLS moved to approve Resolution No. 16-2026. SALSBURY seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of Proposals for Fire Station Exhaust system
BRUNER stated that they received an Assistant to Firefighters Grant (AFG) last year for $106, 571.42 to be used for the exhaust systems in both fire stations. He went out for proposals (RFP) and received (2) back. The first was from Air Clean for $101,750.00, the second from MagnaGrip that submitted (3) options however their lowest option was $106,913.00. BRUNER requested that the Commission approve the proposal from Air Clean.

MOTION: BUCHTA moved to approve the recommendation to accept the proposal from Air Cleaning for $101,750.00. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of 2026 Ground Lease Bids
MATKIN stated that (3) bids were received: $15,700.00, $13,160.00, and $11,776.00.

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the bid for $15,700.00 from Mike Fritter of Richards, MO for the Ground Lease Bid of 94-acres. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of 2026 Cape Seal Program Proposal
MATKIN stated that we received (1) proposal from Vance Brothers for $388,948.00 and recommended that the Commission accept their proposal for the 2026 project.

MOTION: BUCHTA moved to approve the 2026 Cape Seal Program proposal as it’s been presented. WELLS seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Consideration of Ordinance No. 3795– AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 3782 for CLG
DILLON stated that SHPO and the National Parks Service requested amendments to the ordinance for the CLG. She drafted what they asked for and FARMER approved to form. She requested that the Commission approve the ordinance so it could be submitted and the City could receive its CLG status.

MOTION: WELLS moved to approve Ordinance No. 3795. DANCER seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no.

MOTION CARRIED 4-1

Consideration of Amendment to Zoning Regulations – Connex Boxes – L. Dillon
DILLON stated that the Planning Commission has viewed the City Commission’s initial request and is returning it to the City Commission to make the decision.

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve to table until April 7, 2026. DANCER seconded.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

Reports and Comments

City Engineer:
– Davis Lift Station update
– Railroad permit
– Survey scheduled for Wall St.
– E. National utility plan sent out

City Attorney: No Comment

City Manager:
– Moody building update
– Railroad dialogue and spur system talks happening
– Homeless situation in town

Commissioner Wells:
– Fort Scott Greyhounds going for title

Commissioner Van Hoecke:
– Homeless situation

Commissioner Dancer:
– SLA draft and 5-year lifecycle management plan for IT – April 7th

ACTION: MATKIN will email all Commissioners prior to next meeting.

Commissioner Buchta:
– Shop local to help with sales tax

Commissioner Salsbury:
– Fish Fry until Good Friday at St. Mary’s
– 8th & Eddy intersection open

Adjourn

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:51PM. DANCER seconded.

MARCH 17, 2026, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:51PM.

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis/City Clerk

City of Fort Scott Commission Agenda Summary for April 7 Meeting

Fort Scott City Hall.

Meeting Agenda Outline: Fort Scott City Commission

4-7-26 Agenda.2

April 7, 2026 – 6:00 P.M.

  • I. Call to Order

  • II. Pledge of Allegiance

  • III. Invocation

  • IV. Approval of Agenda

  • V. Consent Agenda

    • Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1405-A ($763,783.28)

    • Approval of Minutes from March 17, 2026

    • Request to Pay Application No. 1 – Davis Lift Station Mobilization ($28,596.00)

  • VI. Public Comment

  • VII. Appearances

    • Alex Swanker – City Property Purchase

  • VIII. Unfinished Business

    • Ordinance No. 3799 (Contractor License)

    • Ordinance No. 3797 (Connex Boxes)

  • IX. New Business

    • Ordinance No. 3798 (Disband Design Review Board)

    • Sale of Fire Truck

    • Purchase of Lift Station Equipment

    • Bids for Gunn Park Retaining Walls

    • Extension of Hay Rights

  • X. Reports and Comments

  • XI. Adjourn


Detailed Agenda Action Items

Consent Agenda (Page 1)

The Commission will consider the approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1405-A, which covers expenses totaling $763,783.28 for the period between March 11, 2026, and April 12, 2026. This section also includes the approval of minutes from the previous regular meeting held on March 17, 2026. Additionally, there is a request to pay $28,596.00 to Jeff Asbell Excavating & Trucking, Inc. for mobilization costs, including bond expenses and materials, related to the Davis Lift Station project.

Appearances (Page 1)

Alex Swanker is scheduled to appear before the Commission to discuss a proposal for the purchase of a parcel of land currently owned by the City of Fort Scott.

Unfinished Business (Page 1)

The Commission will revisit two items tabled from the March 17, 2026 meeting:

  • Ordinance No. 3799: Regarding Contractor Licenses, presented by B. Matkin.

  • Ordinance No. 3797: Regarding regulations for Connex Boxes, presented by L. Dillon.

New Business Action Items (Page 1)

Several key decisions are scheduled for this meeting:

  • Design Review Board: Consideration of Ordinance No. 3798, which proposes the disbanding of the Design Review Board.

  • Fire Department Assets: A request by D. Bruner to approve the sale of a city fire truck.

  • Infrastructure Improvements: Approval is sought for the purchase of new pumps, a control panel, and guide rails for the Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations at a cost of $25,860.00.

  • Gunn Park Maintenance: B. Matkin will present bids for the necessary repair of retaining walls located at Gunn Park.

  • Agricultural Rights: The Commission will consider a request to extend hay rights on city-managed land for a period of three years.


Kingfisher Inn: Boutique Vacation Accommodations in Historic Mansion Reopens

 

Inside the Kingfisher Inn, 742 S. National Avenue, Fort Scott. From its Facebook page.

The two historic mansions on South National Avenue are back to business.

Following a couple of changes of ownership since they were known as The Lyons Mansions, the north mansion is ready for travelers once again, and the south mansion is currently rented for office spaces.

Daniel Kerr is the owner of Kingfisher Properties LLC and owns the two mansions, plus a small house on the property that faces Judson Street.

“In December, I was hired as the manager,” said Mindy McDonald. “We offer boutique lodging,  more upscale. We are just now starting to get the word out that we are open.”

Mindy McDonald is the manager of the Kingfisher Inn in Fort Scott. Submitted photo.

 

One can rent the entire mansion or a single room.

Single use allows usage of the common areas in the building: living area, billiard room, sun room, she said.

The east side of the Kingfisher Inn. One can see the sun room available for guests. From its Facebook page.

“To rent the entire mansion, prices start at $600 per night,” she said. “It will sleep 16 people.”

There is a full kitchen with various coffee makers,  stove, oven, full fridge, and dishwasher available for guest use.

The single room starts at $130 per night, excluding the cleaning fee and taxes.

“There is a family suite on the third floor that starts at $210, with two bedrooms and two baths and a sitting area. It sleeps 8 people, with three beds in one room and one bed in another.”

“The Kingfisher Inn stands out as a piece of history in Fort Scott,” she said. “It’s pretty important to keep these historic buildings alive. It’s unique to stay in an historic building. My husband and I stayed in the Lyons Mansion when visiting Fort Scott, when Miss Pat was the host and owner.”

“We operate like an Airbnb, through me,” she said. “They self-check into their room and contact me with any issues during their stay.”

To rent a room, use the business website: http://thekingfisherinn.com

One can learn more about the business also on its Facebook page.

The Kingfisher Inn, 742 S. National Avenue, Fort Scott. From its Facebook page.

 

FS Presbyterian Village Hosts Chamber Coffee on April 2


The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to attend a Chamber Coffee on Thursday, April 2nd at 8 a.m., hosted by Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, 2401 S. Horton St. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize.

Fort Scott Presbyterian Village is a faith-based, not-for-profit community offering independent and assisted living, along with a variety of services that support residents in maintaining an active, engaging lifestyle.

During the Chamber Coffee, guests will also learn about the Village’s current Art is Ageless program and exhibit, on display March 30 through April 10. This annual juried exhibit showcases the creativity of artists aged 65 and older, with selected works eligible to be featured in the 2027 Art is Ageless calendar.

The Art is Ageless program encourages local seniors to express their creativity through visual arts, music, lifelong learning, and community engagement throughout the year.

For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 or visit the Events Calendar at fortscott.com and click on the “Chamber Coffees” category for upcoming hosts and locations.


Blissful Meadows Boutique Open House/Ribbon Cutting is Today

Join us for a Ribbon-Cutting Celebration today at

Blissful Meadows

1 N. Main St.

April 1st

Grand Opening

2-6pm

Ribbon Cutting

5:30pm

Modern Western boutique

Home décor + unique finds

Refreshments + grand opening specials

Come out, shop, and help welcome this exciting new downtown business!

Click HERE to visit the

Blissful Meadows

Facebook Page!

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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