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Category Archives: Fort Scott
Downtown Meet and Greet on February 20
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New Auto Repair Business Opens in Fort Scott
Noah Terry and Dakota Rusk are the owners of a new car maintenance business.
G3 Auto Repair, is located at 1131 227th, Fort Scott, on the east side of town by the Fort Scott Middle School.
Terry and Rusk perform simple auto maintenance to major overhauls “and everything in-between,” said Terry.
“We also do tires, we can even balance them, and we offer detailing services.”
(620) 240- 9343
The business will have a grand opening on February 28, 2026. They are currenlty accepting job inquiries now, Terry said.
Dakota Rusk is the technician and has experience from working at Briggs Auto. Terry is the CEO, he said.
Why start an auto repair business?
“The reasons are twofold,” Terry said. “We want to first and foremost honor God with our work. We devote all things to Him, and our business is a part of that.”
“Secondly, we see this as an opportunity to serve our community; we want to offer a professional service to Fort Scott. We want to build up the place we call home, and providing excellent and honest service is one of many ways we can contribute to that mission.”
Terry said their goals are simple:
“Over communicate. Under promise.
and over deliver.”
To learn more: 620.240.9343 or
Feb. 17 City Commission Agenda Summary
City Commission Meeting Agenda – February 17, 2026
Meeting Overview
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Date: February 17, 2026
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Time: 6:00 PM
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Location: City Hall Commission Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS
Agenda Outline
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Call to Order (Page 1)
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Pledge of Allegiance & Invocation (Page 1)
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Approval of Agenda (Page 1)
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Consent Agenda (Page 1)
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Appropriation Ordinance 1402-A ($363,090.91)
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Approval of February 3, 2026 Minutes
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January Financials
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Payment to Earles Engineering & Inspection LLC ($20,700.00)
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Public Comment (Page 1)
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Appearances (Page 1)
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Land Bank End of Year Report & Resolution No. 12-2026
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922 E. Wall Update
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Unfinished Business (Page 1)
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Status of 121 S. Margrave
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New Business: Action Items (Page 1-2)
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Milling Machine purchase
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Golf Tournament Daily Maximum Fee increase
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Certificate of Appropriateness: 5 E. Wall
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Abatement Process: 523 Heylman
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911 Communication Dispatch MOU
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Ordinance No. 3793 Changes (Public Offense Code)
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Reports and Comments (Page 2)
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Adjournment (Page 2)
Detailed Agenda Information
Consent Agenda & Financials
The commission will consider the approval of expenditures totaling $363,090.91 for the period of January 31 through February 12, 2026. Also included is a request to pay $20,700.00 to Earles Engineering & Inspection LLC for preliminary 80% work on the East National Project Phase I. (Page 1)
Appearances & Reports
Land Bank & Blight Mitigation: Lisa Dillon will present the Land Bank End of Year Report. The commission will also consider Resolution No. 12-2026, which would authorize the Land Bank to engage in blight mitigation activities specifically for areas in close proximity to properties already owned by the Land Bank. (Page 1)
Property Updates: Garrett Knight is scheduled to provide an update regarding the property at 922 E. Wall, and the commission will review the ongoing status of 121 S. Margrave under Unfinished Business. (Page 1)
Action Items
Equipment & Fees: The commission will evaluate the purchase of a new milling machine and a proposal to increase the maximum daily fee for golf tournaments at the city course. (Page 1)
Codes & Historic Preservation: * 5 E. Wall: Consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness for a metal sign for The Reynolds Law Firm, P.A., which received approval from the Design Review Board on February 10th. (Page 1)
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523 Heylman: Consideration to officially begin the abatement process for this property. (Page 1)
Public Safety & Ordinances:
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911 Dispatch: Discussion regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 911 Communication Dispatch services. (Page 1)
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Ordinance No. 3793: Mayor Salsbury will present changes to this ordinance, which regulates public offenses. The update incorporates the 41st Edition of the Uniform Public Offense Code for Kansas Cities and repeals the previous Ordinance No. 3749. (Page 1-2)
City Commission Meeting Summary, Feb. 3, 2026
City Commission Meeting Summary – February 3, 2026
Meeting Overview
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Date: February 3, 2026
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Time: 6:00 PM
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Location: City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS
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Attendance: Mayor Kathryn Salsbury; Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, and Julie Buchta.
Agenda Outline
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Call to Order & Roll Call (Page 1)
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Pledge of Allegiance & Prayer (Page 1)
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Approval of Agenda (Page 1)
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Consent Agenda (Page 1)
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Appropriation Ordinance 1401-A ($420,842.25)
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Approval of Minutes from January 20, 2026
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Public Comment (Page 1)
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Appearances (Page 1)
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IT Update – Stephen Mitchell
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Unfinished Business (Page 1)
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Status of 602 S. Barbee
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New Business & Public Hearings (Page 1-2)
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310 N. Cleveland (Resolution No. 9-2026)
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601 S. Little (Resolution No. 10-2026)
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Action Items (Page 2-3)
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18 S. Holbrook Status Update
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Bid Approval: 2026 Cape Seal Project
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Discussion: City Lake Properties
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Discussion: Contractor Licensing
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Discussion: Horton Street Condition
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Reports and Comments (Page 3)
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Executive Session (Page 3)
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Adjournment (Page 3)
Detailed Meeting Summary
Public Comments & Appearances
Housing Grant & Public Hearing: Lisa Dillon requested a special meeting/public hearing for February 13, 2026, regarding a CDBG grant for a Housing Rehabilitation Program. (Page 1)
Traffic & Utilities: Kevin Allen raised concerns regarding idle trains blocking traffic and requested that water leak bill relief be extended to rural water customers, as it currently only applies to city residents. (Page 1)
IT Infrastructure Update: Stephen Mitchell reported that the dispatch move is complete and equipment inventory is 98% finished. Future priorities include the Water Plant and establishing a long-term upgrade schedule (1, 3, and 5 years). (Page 1)
Property & Structure Reviews
310 N. Cleveland: The owner, Mr. Peterson, requested the city not demolish the structure. He admitted to living there without utilities and stopping repairs due to weather
601 S. Little: Following a fire, this structure was deemed a safety hazard and is six years behind on taxes. Despite the owner’s representative (Mr. Eastwood) offering to clean the site, the Commission approved Resolution No. 10-2026 for the city to proceed with demolition. (Page 2)
18 S. Holbrook: The Land Bank remains interested in this property via tax sale to clear the deed. The City Manager was directed to bring this back to the agenda within 90 days for a final resolution. (Page 2)
Infrastructure & City Operations
Cape Seal Project: The Commission unanimously approved going out for bids for the 2026 Cape Seal project based on specs from Earles Engineering. (Page 2)
Horton Street Remediation: Jason Dickman identified “bleeding” asphalt on Horton Street. The city will initiate a warranty claim with the contractor (Heck and Wicker) to develop a work plan for repairs. (Page 3)
Contractor Licensing: There was an extensive discussion regarding the feasibility of city-level contractor licensing. Concerns were raised about the administrative burden and liability. Staff will research how surrounding cities handle licensing and reciprocal agreements. (Page 3)
City Lake Lots: Commissioners discussed leaning toward a leasing model for city-owned lake properties, primarily for storage use. Commissioner Buchta will tour the area with the Codes Department for further evaluation. (Page 3)
Commission & Staff Reports
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City Engineer: Reported that the Davis Lift Station work begins February 16, 2026, and the CCLIP Phase 4 application will be submitted in March. (Page 3)
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General Comments: Commissioners discussed recent snow removal efforts and street sweeping. Commissioner Van Hoecke noted the Dragoon is scheduled to open June 1st. (Page 3)
USD 234 Minutes of the Feb. 11 Special Meeting
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, for a special meeting at 424 S Main.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda.
The board approved the purchase of 850 State Street.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
Fly the Flag Subscriptions for 2026 Begin
Friends Now Accepting New and Renewed Subscriptions for U.S. Flags
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. What better way to celebrate than to fly the Stars and Stripes in 2026? The Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site Inc. makes it easy.
The Friends provide homeowners and businesses, within the city limits of Fort Scott, the opportunity to display “Old Glory” on five different flag holidays during 2026 without the hassle of purchasing, placing, and storing a flag and pole. No need to even remember the holiday!
For $40 annually, the Friends will install a 3’x5′ flag on a 12 foot staff at your home or business on each of the following Flag Holidays :
Memorial Day, May 25th
Flag Day, June 14th
Independence Day, July 4th
Labor Day, September 17th
Veteran’s Day, November 11th
Applications for new subscriptions can be obtained at the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce or can be requested by phone, text, or email. Call 417-684-2484 or email [email protected]. Renewal notices are being mailed/e-mailed to 2025 subscribers. Both new agreements and renewals must be returned by March 31, 2026.
All proceeds support programs at Fort Scott National Historic Site including the Naturalization Ceremony, Candlelight Tour, and Veterans Challenge coins among other special programs.
Show your patriotism and help our local National Park by displaying the nation’s symbol!
The Fly the Flag project is a yearly project sponsored by the Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site. Once signed up, you will receive the option to renew annually.
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Minutes of the USD234 Board of Education Meeting on Feb. 9
Unified School District 234 424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
www.usd234.org
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, February 9, 2026
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, for
their regular monthly meeting at 900 E 3rd St.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
01-12-26
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – January 20, 2026 – $1,801,674.26
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
Key Club Fundraising Form
Students from Eugene Ware presented to the Board. Working with Mrs. Keating the students cover
announcements and help make the parent weekly newsletter. They have been able to participate in
leadership training at Greenbush and do several fun fundraisers during this school year. Mrs.
Query, Eugene Ware’s Principal, had a presentation that highlighted a few amazing things
happening in the building. She ended explaining how staff morale has been great thanks to
Secretaries Jessica Johnson and Kenda Schmidt and their entertaining projects that include
everyone.
Superintendent Destry Brown informed the Board on great things happening at Tiger Academy and
has appreciated all the support that they have been given.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided a shared document. Mr. Mayfield reviewed
budget projections and insurance renewals. He also updated on Preschool Building project with
the playground being installed soon.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on winter iReady scores showing
positive growth throughout the district. Later this week a few staff will be traveling to PSU to
participate in Teacher Interviews with graduation students.
Special Education Director Tonya Barnes shared an update on reports that are coming due soon.
She also invited all to Special Olympics Basketball at Fort Scott High School on February 18.
The Board approved the following:
● Resolution 25-16 Healthy Kansas Farm to School Program
The Board received an informational overview of Fort Scott USD 234’s five-year long-range
financial outlook for FY25–FY30. This review examines enrollment trends, revenue assumptions,
and projected expenditure growth to provide a forward-looking view of the district’s financial
trajectory. No board action was requested.
The Board went into an executive session for property acquisition.
There were none present for public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for attorney-client privilege.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
February 9, 2026
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
Barr, Lynn – Supplemental Resignation – Head Girls/Boys Tennis Coach – High School
Campbell, Erin – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Hudiburg, Kenny – Supplemental Resignation – Assistant Girls Tennis Coach
Rogers, Jamie – Supplemental Resignation – Girls Basketball Coach – Middle School
Leave of Absence:
Barrager, Terry – Custodian – Eugene Ware
TRANSFER:
Clayton, Emily – Paraprofessional to OT Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Durossette, Jake – Business Teacher to Math Teacher – High School – 2026-27
Weber, Betty – Paraprofessional – KRI to Winfield Scott
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations for 2026-27 School year:
Hendricks, Caleb – Assistant Principal – Winfield Scott
Martin, Jared – Athletic Director – High School
Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:
Carson, Jessica – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Cooper, Tyler – Custodian – Middle School
Davenport, Sam – Paraprofessional – Middle School
Hodges, Julius – Paraprofessional – KRI
Ruggero, Frankie – Custodian – Middle School
Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Carney, Drew – Supplemental – Assistant Track Coach – High School
Chipman, Karlie – Supplemental – Assistant Boys Golf Coach – High School
Sponsor Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Cook, Gary – Head Sponsor – Archery
Whitehead, Trisha – Assistant Sponsor – Archery
Special Meeting of USD 234
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
February 11, 2026 – 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA SUMMARY WITH COMMENTARY
1.0 Call Meeting to Order David Stewart, President
2.0 Flag Salute
3.0 Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)
4.0 Purchase of Property
5.0 Adjourn Meeting _____ (Time) David Stewart, President
The Beacon Reflects on 2025 Successes
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson February 6, 2026
Property Tax Relief – Senate and House Leaders, including the tax committee chairmen, met on Monday to lay the groundwork and coordinate moving on property tax reform. Two key initiatives were discussed: the Cap Assessment Protection (CAP) Amendment, SCR 1616, and a revenue cap proposal that would limit increases to no more than 3% without a vote of the people. Implementing both caps is designed to deliver taxpayer protection – shielding taxpayers from sudden, steep tax hikes; transparency – eliminating hidden tax increases that occur when property assessment values skyrocket even when mill rates stay flat or decline; predictability – giving families, farmers, and small business owners a reliable way to budget for future tax bills.
The CAP Amendment is ready for debate on the Senate floor, and the House will begin committee work on a revenue limit measure. However, some special interest groups are working to kill the progress. Certain lobbyists claim SCR 1616 isn’t a “true” tax cut – a claim that ignores the amendment’s 2022 baseline value, which lowers the growth trajectory for everyone. Opponents of SCR 1616 are attempting to block your right to decide. Because it is a constitutional amendment, passage by the Legislature doesn’t change the law – it puts the decision in your hands at the ballot box. You should have the option to vote on the 3% or less Property Tax CAP Amendment. While the CAP Amendment and the revenue limit are still in the early stages of the legislative process, these proposals represent significant structural property tax protections.
Current law requires revenue neutral letters so that you’re notified of any increases and have an opportunity to be heard in a public meeting before the governing body increases your taxes, forcing transparency. This combined with the CAP Amendment and revenue limits, will have meaningful safeguards. Together, these measures would create one of the strongest systems in the country for protecting taxpayers from sudden and excessive property tax increases, while also increasing transparency and accountability in the process.
Kansas Supreme Court Nominating Commission secrecy will end if SB 299 becomes law. The bill bars any rule that blocks public access to its records. It requires disclosure of the commission’s files, including nominees’ names and hometowns, while keeping background‑checks and sensitive financial information confidential. SB 299 passed unanimously and was sent to the House for consideration.
Unclaimed Cremated Remains could be released or respectfully disposed of after three years by a coroner if HB 2331 becomes law. It also sets special procedures for veterans’ remains, codifies current education requirements for licensed embalmers and funeral directors, and creates a felony for intentionally moving a body to conceal a death or another crime. The bill was amended again to allow all required continuing education hours for embalmers and funeral directors to be completed online, instead of requiring at least 3 hours of in-person training. That change has drawn concern from some funeral homes and is still to be decided. The bill passed unanimously and was returned to the House, which will decide whether to accept the Senate changes or call for a conference committee to negotiate the changes.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Human Resource Roundtable: Discuss Current/Relevant Topics In The Workplace on Feb. 11
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