Category Archives: Fort Scott

Entertainment, Exercise, Fort Scott, Government, Youth

Upgrades on Fort Scott’s East Side Are In the Works

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Third Street Park is east of Hwy. 69. This is the lower level with the ballpark. The upper level has playground equipment, a pavilion and bathrooms.

 

Upgrades to Third Street Park, Nelson Park and the Ellis Park Soccer Field are in the works by the City of Fort Scott.
“The City of Fort Scott is working on upgrades to the 3rd Street Park bathrooms, ” Mary Wyatt, Fort Scott’s Planning, Housing, and Community Development Director, said. “I’ve ordered new bathroom doors, Ron Hurd Construction is going to be framing in the new doors, Stoughton’s Plumbing will be drilling sink holes into the concrete in both bathrooms and installing sinks, we (the City of Fort Scott)are installing motion lights, security cameras, and automatic locks for the bathroom doors. Evergy (the electric utility)  has made a donation of a 35-foot pole to the project and CrawKan (Telephone Cooperative)  has also been involved in the technology aspect of this project.”
Mary Wyatt. Submitted photo.
Third Street Park is located at 600 E 3rd St., a few blocks east of Hwy. 69.
Volunteers John Crain and Josh Jones painted the bathroom at Third Street Park during the beginning of the upgrades last year.  Submitted photo.

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team received a grant to install new playground equipment and new concrete stairs that have added better access in the multi-level park in 2023.

Rachel Carpenter. Submitted photo.

“Through funding from Patterson Family Foundation and Blue Cross and Blue Shield Pathways to a Healthy Kansas, HBCAT started the Stronger Together: Building Up Our Neighborhoods placemaking projects,” according to Rachel Carpenter, HBCAT Director in a prior interview.

This playground equipment was installed last year at Third Street Park.

A Building Up Our Neighborhoods Placemaking project through HBCAT repaired the bathrooms and existing structures, including the basketball goal.

To view the prior story:

“HBCAT initially started the 3rd Street Park project in 2023 and had new playground equipment and fall protection installed, the City of Fort Scott promised assistance on the project in the form of upgrading the bathrooms,” Wyatt said.  “The City of Fort Scott has paid for the bathroom doors and security equipment and will be paying Stoughton’s Plumbing for their services and Jeff Allen for electrical work and CrawKan for the technology work, Ron Hurd Construction has volunteered to donate their time to frame in the new bathroom doors, and Evergy donated a bare 35-foot pole.”
John Crain and Josh Jones paint the bathroom at Third Street Park, in this 2023 photo. Submitted photo.
“The HBCAT 3rd Street Park project was paid for by a grant that HBCAT applied for and were awarded, but the bathrooms portion of the project is paid for by the City of Fort Scott,” Wyatt noted.
The bathroom completion timeline is the end of May.
“There are a lot of moving parts and coordinating of individuals and businesses to make it all come together, but it is my goal to have the bathrooms completed and opened to the public by Memorial Day weekend,” she said.
Wyatt has been working on other projects for youth.
Nelson Park is at Grant and Elm Street in Fort Scott.
“I am also currently working on a project to make upgrades to Nelson Park, I’ve recently attended several Community Development and Grant Writing workshops and have found many resources that could lead to grant funding opportunities to fund the Nelson Park project,” she said. Nelson Park can be accessed from East Wall Street, turning north on Grant Street
“A few months ago, I completed a project that brought flashing school zone speed limit signs to both Margrave Street on the east side of Fort Scott as well as on National Avenue on the west side of Fort Scott and also just received additional flashing school zone signs that will be placed on Horton Street. The cost of the flashing school zone signs were split between the USD234 school district and the City of Fort Scott.”
Ellis Park is located at !12th and Williams Street in Fort Scott. This is a view of the soccer field on Williams Street.
“I am also currently looking into a project that could hopefully help resurface the Ellis Park soccer field this summer,” she said. Ellis Park is near the Fort Scott Middle School, on Twelveth Street.

 

Fort Scott, Government, Schools, Youth

FSHS Thespians Honor Members At Annual Awards Banquet

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Left to right: Jericho Jones, Casey Gomez, Regen Wells, Junie Fisher, Cooper George, Lexi Hill, Alyssa Popp, Lizzy Moore, Milo Donnelly, Angie Bin. Submitted photo.

The Fort Scott High School Thespian Troupe #7365 honored members at the annual Golden Thespie Awards Banquet on Apr. 29. The banquet followed original one-act play performances written by the three Drama classes at FSHS.

Honors opened with the President’s Speech & Introduction of New Officers by senior Lexi Hill. New officers include: President – junior Cooper George, Vice President – junior Kaiden Clary, Secretary – junior Emi King, Historian – junior Milo Donnelly, Publicity Chair – sophomore Junie Fisher, State Thespian Representatives – sophomores Chris Newman and Emma Bin, and State State Thespian Representatives in Training – freshmen Ava Johnson and Allie Wards.

The troupe inducted official International Thespian Society Members: seniors Jericho Jones, Lexi Hill, and Casey Gomez; and juniors Emi King, Mykael Lewis, Kaiden Clary, and Cooper George.

 

The following were recognized for competing in the KS State Thespian Festival Thespy Events: Vocal solos – seniors Casey Gomez and Jericho Jones, junior Emma Guns, and sophomores Junie Fisher and Levi Fairchild; Monologues – seniors Regen Wells and Jaedyn Lewis, juniors Emi King and Alyssa Popp, sophomores Chris Newman and Grace Walker; Group acting – seniors Jesse Dinneen and Natalie Woods along with sophomore Peighton Head; Duet acting – juniors Mykael Lewis and Kaiden Clary; Stage Management – junior Cooper George; and Lighting – senior Lexi Hill. Special Recognition went to Wells (qualifying for the third year in a row) and Fisher who qualified to compete at the International Thespian Festival at Indiana University June 23-28.

 

The troupe was presented the Gold Honor Troupe Award from the KS Thespians and the following State Improv Troupe Finalists were recognized: seniors Regen Wells, Lexi Hill, and Jaedyn Lewis; junior Mykael Lewis, and sophomore Chris Newman.

Senior members of International Thespian Society were presented with a medal to wear at graduation. Lexi Hill was honored for receiving the Kansas Thespian Society Technical Theatre Scholarship and Independence Community College Technical Theatre Scholarship. Kassandra Farr, Natalie Woods, Lizzy Moore were recognized for Fort Scott Community College Theatre Scholarships.

 

Senior 4-Year Drama Class Students were presented with lifetime alumni tickets to theatre productions at FSHS. They include: Jesse Dinneen, Lexi Hill, Natalie Woods, Josiah Eisenbrandt, Casey Gomez, Jericho Jones, and Jaedyn Lewis.

 

Every year the troupe votes on the Golden Thespies. These are special trophies presented for outstanding achievement during the year. The Best Newcomer trophy went to junior Milo Donnelly with freshmen Ava Johnson and Allie Wards also as nominees. Most Involved was junior Alyssa Popp with junior Mykael Lewis and sophomore Chris Newman also nominated. Drama Mama went to senior Lizzy Moore with senior Lexi Hill and junior Emi King as nominees. Drama Papa was awarded to junior Cooper George with seniors Jesse Dinneen and Josiah Eisenbrandt nominated.  The Designer of the Year trophy went to senior Lexi Hill, also nominated: senior Natalie Woods and sophomore Chris Newman. Technician of the Year went to junior Cooper George, juniors Emi King and Alyssa Popp also nominated. Actor of the Year was awarded to senior Casey Gomez with juniors Kaiden Clary and Mykael Lewis nominated. The Actress of the Year trophy was won by senior Regen Wells with senior Jaedyn Lewis and Junior Emma Guns nominated. The Singer of the Year trophy went to sophomore Junie Fisher with nominations also to senior Jericho Jones and sophomore Levi Fairchild. The top award of the evening went to theTriple Threat senior Jericho Jones. Seniors Casey Gomez and Regen Wells were nominated as well. Jones also has his name engraved on the perpetual Triple Threat plaque.

The evening closed with a tribute slideshow to the Thespian Seniors. Upcoming events include the Improv Comedy Show on May 12 at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium and Tiger Drama Camp – Sleeping Beauty – held May 28-June 10 weekdays 12:30-4:30 p.m., with performances June 10 & 11 at 7 p.m.

FSHS is also proud to announce the production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. as the fall all-school musical for 2024. Thespians is led by Troupe Director Angie Bin

 

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Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER RIBBON CUTTING TO CELEBRATE BLISSFUL AESTETHTICS AND WELLNESS  on May 23

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members to a Chamber After-hours & Ribbon Cutting Event to celebrate the opening of Blissful Aesthetic & Wellness! The event will take place on Thursday, May 23rd from 5:15pm-6:30pm with the remarks and ribbon cutting starting at 5:30pm. After the Ribbon cutting and remarks, everyone is invited to come and go to see the business, enter the drawings, and enjoy refreshments.

 

Blissful Aesthetics and Wellness opened it’s doors in May 2023 giving clients a holistic approach on wellness and beauty that prioritizes your individual goals.

 

Blissful Aesthetics & Wellness offers services such as Aesthetics, IV Infusion & Vitamin Injections, Labs, Weight loss, Dermatology, and Wellness Consultations.

 

Contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce for more information at 620-223-3566 or [email protected].

 

 

Business, Entertainment, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee hosted by Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore On May 9

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore on Thursday, May 9th at 8am. Crooked Cactus Coffee, juice, and refreshments will be served, and attendees may register to win a special drawing.

Jordan and Randi Witt, new owners of Hedgehog.INK!, took ownership in February 2024. Hedgehog.INK! is your family-owned bookstore located in the historic downtown Fort Scott. With over 25 sections of new and used books, including a local authors section, you can find books in great condition at an affordable price and something for everyone! Hedgehog.INK! also carries products from several local vendors and offers freshly roasted Nutty Bavarian nuts.

Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

 

 

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

Grace Baptist, First Presbyterian Churches and the Old Mercy Building Will Be Open Should Tornado Sirens Sound

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The doors will be unlocked for those seeking shelter tonight should the tornado sirens sound, at the following places:

Bronson, Garland, Mapleton and Uniontown all have storm shelters in their communities.

Fort Scott has three options.

The employee entrance will be unlocked at the former Mercy Hospital building.

South Fort Scott: 401 Woodland Hills, the northwest employee entrance will be unlocked, should the tornado sirens sound.

First Presbyterian Church. 308 S. Crawford.

Downtown: 308 South Crawford, the First Presbyterian Church will be unlocked for a storm shelter.

Grace Baptist Church is at the corner of Margrave and 6th Street. The front doors, on Margrave,  will be open should the tornado sirens sound.

East side: Grace Baptist Church, 502 S. Margrave, will have the front doors unlocked this evening for a safe storm shelter.

Bourbon County, Fort Scott

Hartman’s Celebrate 74th Wedding Anniversary

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Leo and Arla Hartman.

Leo and Arla (Ater) Hartman were married on May 7, 1950 at the farm home of Roy and Bessie Ater, her parents.

They are celebrating 74 years of marriage.

They raised their children on a farm near Hiatville and Leo just retired from farming a few years ago. Their sons are Dennis, deceased; Mark and Sherri Hartman, Uniontown; and Jerry Hartman, Claremore, OK.

They have six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Cards may be sent to 2152 Irish Road, Fort Scott.

 

Bourbon County, Food, Fort Scott

Farmer’s Market Under New Gathering Square Pavilion For The First Time, Today

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The Fort Scott Pavilion Ribbon Cutting on  May 4 from the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

The rain clouds kept away for the Gathering Square Pavilion Fort Scott Farmers Market Ribbon Cutting on North National Avenue today.

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lindsay Madison thanked the T-Mobile communication business, who, a few years ago gave a  $50,000 grant to start the pavilion.

The City of Fort Scott, Regional Economic Development Inc., Healthy Bourbon County Team, the Fort Scott  Area Community Foundation, and others helped make this vision a reality, Matthew Wells, FS City Councilman and one who spearheaded the project, said.

Wells said the new pavilion’s land sits where the original Fort Scott Farmer’s Market was 100 years ago.

City Manager Brad Matkin said the pavilion is a wonderful asset to the community….and more are coming.

REDI Director Rob Herrington said it was a collaborative effort and “Together we can make things happen.”

The ribbon cutting was celebrated on the opening day of the Fort Scott Farmers Market (FSFM), May 4.

FSFM President Terri Hamilton said the vendors are “thankful for the covered space.” She noted that there are 24 slots in the Pavillion and 32 vendors, and they are “working hard to coordinate with the new vendors.”

The activities for the day: live music, face painting, children’s games, cotton candy, Bourbon County Garden Club Plant Sale, Breakfast on the Bricks by Scout Troop 114, and of course the vendors with local produce and crafts.

The farmer’s market is open 8  a.m. to noon on Saturdays and 4-6 p.m. on Tuesdays from May to October.

 

 

 

 

 

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

FS Town-Wide Garage Sale Continues Today

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IT’S TOWN-WIDE GARAGE SALE WEEKEND IN FORT SCOTT!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce hopes you are ready to get out and shop for bargains on clothing, home décor, tools, toys, gadget, and more!

Find the treasure of your dreams this weekend, May 3rd & 4th during the Town-wide Garage sale in Fort Scott!

Starting Thursday, May 2nd you may find copies of the official garage sale map from the Chamber as well as local stores 5 Corners, Bids & Dibs, Casey’s, Don’s Smoke Shop, and all Pete’s locations – you can also find the map on our website fortscott.com or on Facebook under Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce.

Get out and shop the Town-wide Garage Sale this Friday & Saturday May 3rd & 4th in Fort Scott, brought to you by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce!

Click here for a printable listing and map!

Click here for the google map!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Entertainment, Food, Fort Scott

Good Ol’ Days Begins At The End Of May: Lavetta Simmons Is the Parade Grand Marshal

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Good Ol’ Days on Main Street, 2023.

The 43rd annual Fort Scott Good Ol’ Days will happen May 31 through June 1 with the theme “Where Our History Comes to Life” said the steering committee chairman, Shawn O’Brien.

The kick-off is Friday, May 31,  from 4:30-6 p.m. with the chicken dinner catered by Chicken Marys for $10 for a two-piece dinner including  German potato salad, creamy cole slaw bread, and water.
“You can purchase your tickets at the Fort Scott Chamber office, 231 E. Wall,” O’Brien said. ” Pick up will be at the corner of Wall and Main.  You can drive through on the east side at Wall Street and Scott Avenue.”
The beginning of the parade in 2019.
“The largest parade of the year starts  Friday at 6 p.m. at 6th and Main Street,” he said.  “We are delighted to announce that Lavetta Simmons has been selected as this year’s Grand Marshal. Each year, our committee has the privilege of recognizing individuals who stand out and shine in our community, and Lavetta’s unwavering dedication to Care to Share has truly captured our hearts.”
Lavetta Simmons was one of the founders of Care to Share, an organization that supports cancer patients and their families.
“Lavetta’s heartfelt commitment to Care to Share over the years has left an indelible mark on countless lives,” he said. “Her compassion and kindness have provided solace and support to numerous cancer victims, survivors, as well as their families and friends. Though Lavetta has retired from her role at Care to Share, her dedication to service continues as she now attends to her family, serving as the epitome of the best babysitter. Join us in celebrating Lavetta Simmons and her remarkable contributions to our community.”
“This year we will feature some great entertainment on the stage at Skubitz Plaza,” O’Brien said. “Friday night will kick off at 7 p.m. with Nathan Ast Band followed by Blane Howard. Blane returns to Fort Scott for his second show. We are excited to host him again as he always has a great show.”
The stage at Skubitz Plaza will feature free entertainment.
“We will have local artists Jericho Jones and Holly Crays on Saturday, he said.  “Then finish out the Saturday evening with Left of Center which will play some great music along with karaoke. Bring your lawn chairs and come out and enjoy live music that features some great artists.
“The Red Garter show will return thanks to Kenny Clary and his wonderful group,” he said. “They always have an energy-packed show. This year they will have their show in the Liberty Theatre. We are excited to partner with a generous sponsor to host this show in the beautiful downtown Liberty Theatre.”
The Red Garter show will kick off Friday at 7 p.m. for one show, then resume Saturday at 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. with a show every hour.
Jared Leek in the Good Ol’ Days parade in 2016.
“Jared Leek, owner of Liberty Theatre, an icon of the parade, will appear on the magical bike and we are so thankful for all the years that he has represented something that dates back to the start of the Good Ol’ Days”.

Many great family activities are planned for Saturday.

“We will have a bounce house at 3rd and Main Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $5 unlimited bouncing. Tulsa Gelly Ball will return this year at 2nd and Main. They have always been a family fun event. There is a cost for each participant, hide, roll, and avoid being shot at through a maze of obstacles. We will also offer free balloon artist and caricature drawings. These have been a great hit over the past few years.”

“We have some new food trucks coming in, and locals that will feature tacos, burgers, chicken, Hawaiian dishes, BBQ, fried fish, fried Oreos, funnel cakes, and much more,” he said.
Good Ol’ Days food truck.
‘The food trucks are always a huge hit as they feature fun options that we can’t get locally. We are excited to feature some new food that we have not had before,” he said.
Vendors and sponsors are needed for the event.
The steering committee chairman is O’Brien, Vice Chair Charlotte Thompson, Secretary Kayla Hall, Treasurer Cheryl VanHoecke, Fort Scott National Historic Site representative Carl Brenner, and members, Tim VanHoecke, Shaylynn Clements, Angel Wilson, and Trey Sharp.
To learn more:
O’Brien has been on the committee for 11 years and chairman for 5 years.
Shawn O’Brien,
“I want to thank our community for their generous support and contributions,” he said. “Our festival would not be possible without so many volunteers and passionate people. The City of Fort Scott is gracious with their city workers, the Fire department and Police department and so many countless others.”
“This will be my last year as chairman, and I am looking forward to enjoying the Good Ol’ Days as I did 12 years ago strolling down the street and enjoying the food, crafts, and fun,” he said. “If you would like to become a part of the committee, please let me know as we are looking for people to join our fun team.”
Church news, Food, Fort Scott

Fundraiser for Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries is Sunday, May 5 at 1st Baptist Church

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Sunday May 5th from 12pm-1pm at First Baptist Church of Fort Scott, 123 Scott Ave. the church will host a bake sale fundraiser for Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries.
*This is a FREE WILL OFFERING*
Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries helps our community with:
-groceries
-gas voucher to get to medical appointments/work
-non-narcotic medications
-shoes/clothes for work
-diabetic supplies
-hygiene
-incontinence pads
-baby diapers
-wheelchair/crutches on loan
-blankets/sheets/pillows
-resource assistance
-homeless kits
-needs to establish employment
-and more
-100% of donations stay in Fort Scott and goes to helping our community.
If you can’t make it to the Bake Sale and still want to help support this resource in our community-you can feel free to reach out to Tanya Glessner or Angela Handly.
*PLEASE SHARE THIS POST TO HELP GET THE WORD OUT*
Fort Scott, Government

Agenda for the Fort Scott City Commission on May 7

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

May 7, 2024 – 6:00 P.M.

 

  1. Call to Order
  2. Roll Call

Matthew Wells,    Tim VanHoecke,     Melissa Guns,     Dyllon Olson,     Tracy Dancer

III.    Pledge of Allegiance – T. Dancer/Mayor

  1. Invocation – M. Wells/Commissioner
  2. Approval of Agenda
  3. Consent Agenda
  4. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1359-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates – April 10, 2024 – April 30, 2024 – $1,752,949.24

 

  1. Approval of Minutes for April 16, 2024.

 

  1. RESOLUTION NO. 14-2024 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGE DUNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE (AND ACCESSORY STRUCTURE) PARCEL #006-119-30-0-30-25-010-00-0 LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS FORT SCOTT, LOT 8 BLK 132 IN BOURBON COUNTY, IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS [314 S. EDDY], FORT SCOTT, KS 66701 – Tabled from April 2, 2024.

 

  1. RESOLUTION NO. 15-2024 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE (AND ACCESSORY STRUCTURE) PARCEL #006-119-30-0-30-27-002-00-0 LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS FORT SCOTT, S 25’ LOT 4 BLK 130 IN BOURBON COUNTY, IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS [306 S. LOWMAN], FORT SCOTT, KS 66701 – Tabled from April 2, 2024.

 

VII.   Public Comment – Sign up required before the beginning of the meeting on register at the          entrance of the Commission Room. Public Comments are for any topic not on the agenda and                      limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.

VIII.    Appearances – Must be scheduled with the City Clerk at least (1) week prior to the meeting           you wish to address the Commission. You will be scheduled on the agenda to speak on your topic.

  1. Dave Bruner/Fire Chief and Jason Pickert/Police Chief – City flooding updates
  2. Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director – Wastewater Treatment Plant update

 

 

  1. Old Business
  2. RESOLUTION NO. 12-2024 – RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR        REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AND    ACCESSORY STRUCTURE – KNOWN AS [110 W. OAK], FORT SCOTT, KS 66701 –        Tabled from April 2, 2024 – Owner to return with requested information for the Commission.     Removed from April 16, 2024, agenda – L. Kruger
  3. RESOLUTION NO. 13-2024 – RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR        REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AND    ACCESSORY STRUCTURE – PARCEL #006-119-29-0-10-12-00900-0-01 LEGALLY            DESCRIBED AS CAMERONS ADD-SUB DIV ORIG BLK 5, LOTS 27 & 28 BLK 3                                                   IN BOURBON COUNTY, IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, OTHERWISE   KNOWN AS [1801 E. WALL], FORT SCOTT, KS 66701 – Tabled from April 2, 2024.                         Received Title Search – N. Nation and L. Kruger
  4. Consideration of donation to BBGo Transportation Service – $4,500.00
  5. Consideration of Proposal for Construction Observation for Horton Street & 6th     Street Improvement Project (180 calendar days) – Earles Engineering & Inspection –                  J. Dickman
  6. New Business
  7. Consideration to Purchase Time Clocks, License and Setup to be split between          departments – Tyler Technologies – $13,514 – P. Coyan
  8.  Consideration to Approve Construction a Public Safety Training Area – D. Bruner      and M. Miles
  9. Consideration of Letter of Interest for (1) Library Board Vacancy – Chelsey      McAllister – Recommended by Library Board to begin May 11, 2024 – (1) vacancy still under consideration – M. Wells
  10.  Consideration to Approve Resignation of Carol MacArthur from Planning             Commission and Advertise for Replacement Candidate – Reappointed March 5, 2024.
  11.  Consideration to Implement Deposit for Memorial Hall Usage – B. Matkin
  12. Reports and Comments
  13. City Manager Comments
  14.  Engineering Comments
  15.   Commissioners Comments
  16.  City Attorney Comments

 

XII.      Executive Session

XIII.     Adjourn

 

Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission on April 16

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of April 16, 2024                                        Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held April 16, 2024, at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. (Time stamps according to YouTube recording of meeting).

 

Roll Call

Meeting called to order at 6:02PM (Time stamp: 2:27). Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tim VanHoecke, Melissa Guns, and Dyllon Olson were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer.

 

Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation

  1. Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and M. Wells said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

Audience in Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering, Jason Pickert/Chief of Police, Payton Coyan/City HR Director, Jessica Oliphant/BakerTilly (by phone), Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Diane Striler, Cory Bryars, Scott Dennis, Kristen Dennis, Casey Brown/SEK-CAP, Scott Christiansen/SEK-CAP, Jamey M. Whitney/SEK-CAP, Cherri Walrod/Core Community, Kellie Kemp, Brandi Meeks, Don Tucker, Jean Tucker, and Bailey Lyons.

 

Proclamation – The Fort Scott City Commission declared April 27, 2024 “Spencer Lee Day” with a Memorial Proclamation read by Mayor Tracy Dancer and accepted by Kellie Kemp.

 

Approval of Agenda

The City Clerk requested (2) amendments to the Agenda: 1) Removal of Item 1 – Old Business – Resolution No. 12-2024/Repair or Removal of a Dangerous Structure known as 110 W. Oak (requested by L. Kruger/Codes);  2) Addition of Item 5 – New Business – Action Items – Consideration of Agreement No. 208-22 for Project No. U 2455-01 – Cost Share Program.

 

  1. VanHoecke asked for clarification regarding Resolution No. 121-2024 – Resolution to Repair or Remove a Dangerous Structure known as 110 W. St. being removed from the agenda under Public Hearing. B. Matkin stated that the Codes Department is not present due to training out of town and the item will be returned on an upcoming agenda. He also spoke with the property owner.

 

MOTION:   M. Wells moved to approve the agenda with the requested amendments. D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consent Agenda

 

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1358-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates – March 27, 2024 – April 9, 2024 – $464,041.39

–  Approval of Minutes from April 2, 2024, and March 26, 2024, Special Meeting.

 

–  Request to Pay – Hofer, Hofer & Associates – Application No. 1 – Gunn Park Shower House and Restroom – Current Amount Due – $58,065.30

 

–  Request to Pay – Environmental Process Equipment Company (EPEC) – Cell #2 -Phase 2 Aeration Upgrade – Final Retainage – 10% of Total – $82,661.80 –S. Flater

 

–  Request to Pay – Ray Lindsey Company – 55% Due With Shipment (per contract) –    Invoice #2024084 – Supply and Removal of Smith & Loveless Grit Equipment – $333,856.05 – S. Flater

 

–  Request to Pay – Schneider Electric – Invoice #0001010681 – Client Service Contract – April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025 – $12,543.00.

 

–  March Financials

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the Consent Agenda.  M. Guns seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

Public Comment – No Public Comments.

 

 

Appearances

 

–  Payton Coyan  (Time stamp – 12:01) – Temporary Street Closure – Luau Event – May 18, 2024 – 10:00AM to 11:00PM – North National to Oak – Market Street, North National to Old Fort Blvd. to North Main and Old Fort Blvd (alley entrance).

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the request for Temporary Street Closures on May 18, 2024.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Coyan recognized the sponsors of the Luau Event as well as those who donated.

 

–  Cherri Walrod – Core Community Bourbon County (Time stamp 15:24) appeared before the Commission to update them on the Core Community successes over the past year and invited everyone to the first graduation of those who completed the program so far.

 

  1. Matkin requested that the Chair recognize the addition of a Public Comment from Bailey Lyons and that she be allowed to speak at this time because she had to leave.

 

–  Bailey Lyons and John Crain – Downtown Chamber Division (Time stamp 26:35)  appeared before the Commission to remind everyone regarding the Earth Day Downtown Cleanup on April 24th from 4:00PM – 6:00PM and explain what will be done during the project.    She also acknowledged the Elks Club who provided a grant that funded most of the project, Good Neighbor Action Team and Bourbon County Arts Council and the City of Fort Scott.

 

–  Scott Christiansen/Transportation Director, Jamey Whitney/CEO and Casey Brown/Community Engagement Coordinator – BB Go Transportation– Southeast Kansas Community Action Program, Inc. (SEK-CAP) (Time stamp 33:01) appeared before the Commission to present the transportation services, in conjunction with the Bourbon County Action Team, they provide to citizens of Bourbon County. They are asking that the City consider making a donation to the company in order to continue services as well as expand in the future.

 

–  Diane Striler and Cory Bryars – Downtown Community Ice Rink (Time stamp 45:41) appeared before the Commission for consideration of the MOU they wrote to acquire a synthetic ice rink for the City of Fort Scott.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the MOU in its current state.  M. Guns seconded the motion.  M. Wells and M. Guns voted yes.  D. Olson, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted no.

 

MOTION FAILED BY 2-3 VOTE.

 

ACTION:  T. VanHoecke requested that the City Clerk provide the MOU in its current state on the City website with the minutes of the meeting.

 

 

 

 

Old Business

 

REQUEST TO VACATE OLD FORD STREET – Scott and Kristen Dennis – Property described as: 60’ x 150’ OF FORD STREET LOCATED BETWEEN LOTS 7-12, BLOCK 3, TALLMAN 1ST ADDITION, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 60’ X 150’ OF FORD STREET IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS. Tabled from 4/2/2024 for further information. (Time stamp 59:32)

 

  1. Wells stated that the further information was provided and the clarity was instead of 60’ by 120’ it is actually 60’ by 150’ square feet. Instead of it being 7,500 square feet, the Commission is being asked to vacate 9,000 square feet.

 

  1. VanHoecke left the meeting at 7:06PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke returned to the meeting at 7:08PM.

 

  1. Farmer recommended for consideration to get the land surveyed and the City could issue a Quit Claim Deed.

 

MOTION:   D. Olson moved to vacate a 60’ by 150’ of Old Ford Street.  M. Guns seconded the motion.  M. Guns and D. Olson voted yes. M. Wells, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted no.

 

MOTION FAILED BY 2-3 VOTE.

 

ACTION:  M. Wells directed that the City get the house “plotted” as a first step and then continue to figure out a path forward at another date.

 

MOTION:  M. Guns moved to have the City take responsibility and pay for the survey to be completed.  D. Olson seconded the motion.

 

  1. Dennis stated that he had planned to put a porch on the back of the house.

 

  1. VanHoecke requested to add to the motion on the table that the footprint of the house plus thirty (30) feet beyond. . . (statement not completed).

 

Further discussion was had about the amount of property to be included in the deed.

 

  1. VanHoecke struck his addition to motion made by M. Guns.

 

  1. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

ACTION:  B. Matkin stated that Norm Nation from the Codes Department would reach out to S. Dennis regarding the survey.

 

  1. Farmer left the meeting at 7:19PM.

 

Discussion of Event Sponsorship Grant Program (Tourism Grant) – B. Matkin explained the program and the pay out options once approved through the rubric.

 

  1. Farmer returned to the meeting at 7:21PM.

 

Discussion was had about the administration of the rubric and amount limits.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve that the maximum grant amount be $5,000.00 and that the rubric and evaluation sheet done by City staff be a line item in future agendas that are included in the Commissioners’ Agenda Packets.            M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

New Business

 

  1. Public Hearings

 

  1. CASE NO. 1045 – Zoning Change C2 to R2 – Requested by Jason Marbery – Intended use is to build four (4) duplexes – Recommended by Planning Commission March 27, 2024.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing at 7:28PM (Time stamp 1:27:11)  M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Jason Marberry was not present.  There was no one present to be heard at the public hearing.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing at 7:29 (Time stamp 1:29:27).  M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the zoning change request from C2 to R2 as recommended by the Planning Commission for Case No. 1045.  M. Guns seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

  1. Action Items

 

Consideration of Purchase – Two (2) New Teledyne Ozone Analyzers (Teledyne API M465H) – $15,120.00 – S. Flater

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the purchase of the two (2) Teledyne Ozone Analyzers.  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Flater updated the Commission on the Water Plant with the following items:

 

–  April 2, 2024 – No. 3 High Service Pump installed; pump No. 2 next year may need to be rebuilt next year.

 

–  Phase II of the Aeration for lagoon system (WWTP) completed and running well.

 

–  Grit Removal System (WWTP) – old system removed by Ray Lindsay Co., new system anticipated to be up and running by May.

 

–   ADM averaging twenty (20) drop-off loads per week.

 

–  pH average is between seven (7) and eight (8) – (7) is neutral. There was a meeting last week with City staff and ADM to talk about the present and the future.

 

–   Laboratory testing coming back in good shape for the past couple of months. There are items being watched but they are not compliance issues.

 

– ADM is working on an aeration system for their lagoons which has been beneficial to the quality of loads we receive. They are still working on being within contract limits.

 

–   AMS is still here, ADM is paying the bill for AMS to be here and inject microbes into the lagoon systems. There are currently (5) trailers on site and each trailer injects microbes into the lagoons twice a day.

 

– Current agreement is for AMS to be here until the end of June. There was discussion of reducing trailers from five (5) to three (3) by that time.

 

–   All observations indicate a healthy system.

 

 

Consideration of Addendum No. 2 – Wastewater Evaluation and Design Contract – Project No. 21-303 – Additional Consultant Services from Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. to Finalize Plans and Bidding for the Davis Lift Station overflow pump and force main – $18,000.00 –  J. Dickman

 

–  J. Dickman reported the state required the City to mitigate the overflow that tends to happen during heavy rains at the Davis Lift Station.  Earles Engineering has been working on designing a pump to get the overflow into a force main and direct it into Cell No. 2 at the lagoons.

 

–   Survey was done, plans laid out, last step is sizing the pump properly.

 

–   Part of the original scope of that work from 2021 included an evaluation of the entire WWTP based on KDHE’s recommendations, this contract did not make it all the way through complete design, so the current charge is to get past the preliminaries, out to bid and to the finish line.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to accept Addendum No. 2.  of the Wastewater Evaluation and Design Contract – Project No. 21-303.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

Consideration of Inspection Proposal – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Project No. 22-049 – Horton & 6th Streets – KDOT Cost Share Project – J. Dickman

 

ACTION:  B. Matkin requested that J. Dickman amend the document to delete “City of Pittsburg” and replace it with “City of Fort Scott”.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to table the Consideration of Inspection Proposal for Project No. 22-049 until the meeting of May 7, 2024.  M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Bids – Project No. 22-049 – Horton & 6th Streets – KDOT Cost Share Project – J. Dickman

–   Three (3) bids were received opened on April 11, 2024: Heck and Wicker were the low bidder (within 10% of the Engineer’s estimate).

 

  1. Matkin left the meeting at 7:48 PM.

 

  1. Matkin returned to the meeting at 7:49 PM

 

Discussion was had about salvaging bricks according to the Brick Policy within the bids and the budget for this project.

 

  1. Oliphant/BakerTilly did not have any additional comments to add.

 

MOTION:  D. Olson moved to approve the bid of Heck and Wicker, Inc. minus line 44 of the bid.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

Consideration of Agreement No. 208-22, Project No. U 2455-01 – Agreement between the Secretary of Transportation (KDOT) and the City of Fort Scott – J. Dickman

  1. Dickman explained that this document is the Cost Share Agreement with KDOT for the Horton and 6th Street Project that was originally executed in 2022.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve Cost Share Agreement No. 208-22.  M. Guns seconded the motion.

 

  1. Matkin asked if the name of the LPA/City Manager on page 15 of 17 be changed from Kelley Zellner to Brad Matkin. J. Dickman did not believe it mattered but would verify. M. Wells stated that it was possibly due to the time the agreement was drawn up.

 

ACTION:  J. Dickman will make sure that the Cost Share Coordinator has all updated information.

 

  1. Olson called to vote. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

Reports and Comments

 

City Manager (Time stamp 2:00:15) – B. Matkin

  • Wyatt/Planning, Housing and Community Development Director went to a grant writing conference and couldn’t appear. She asked B. Matkin to address some current issues with the Land Bank.
  • Olson stated that at April 15, 2024, Land Bank meeting, they voted to recommend: 1) changing membership to have no professional requirements; 2) all positions are three (3) year terms;   3) remove the wording “the main support comes from Bourbon County REDI” from Ordinance No. 3599;  3) appointments to the board would be from date of appointment.

 

ACTION:  B. Matkin requested that Ordinance No. 3599 be changed and brought to the next meeting for consideration to approve the Land Bank’s recommendations of the April 15, 2024, meeting.

 

–   Gunn Park Shower House and Restroom Update: the inside is mostly        completed and will be ready for usage once the water is hooked up.

 

–   An agreement was signed for $12,000.00 for citywide fireworks for July 6,             2024, behind FSCC.

 

–    Reminder for Work Session scheduled for Tuesday, April 25th at 6:00PM           regarding RHIDs with Garth Herrmann from Gilmore Bell.

 

–     Water leak and line repair at St. Mary’s Street and Eddy Street will probably require another week of work.

 

–     25th Street Update: (2) more concrete pours to complete the job in the next           few days.  Thank you to Peerless for letting everyone go through their parking lot during the project.

 

City Engineer (Time stamp 2:04:51) – J. Dickman

  • Compiling a list of active projects for budgeting purposes
  • Meeting with KDOT and City staff for Phase III planning and submission of the Wall Street CCLIP Project
  • 25th Street testing – all passing

 

Commissioners Comments

 

  1. Olson (Time stamp 2:05:51) – No comments.

 

 

  1. Wells (Time stamp 2:05:55)

–  Clarification from statement made at last meeting regarding the Ground Lease by the WWTP, his research found that the damage to the bottom land was not caused by the farmer, it was caused by the equipment the City used to rip the ground up. There is a good plan of action moving forward, but he wanted to apologize for stating that it was the farmer’s responsibility.

 

–  Asked for verification that the City has already approved to move forward with the RHID package. It was stated that they did approve to move forward but have not established districts. He asked that the Commission be proactive in moving this project forward because there are developers who have projects that can be completed once it is approved.  B. Matkin stated as a reminder that this is a slow process.

 

–  Status of 3rd Street Park restrooms – B. Matkin stated it is in process with Wi-Fi lock system.  He will check with B. Lemke for an update.

 

–  Asked if the leak on Eddy was due to heavy truck traffic that was allowed to go through for construction.  B. Matkin stated that was not the cause, it had been leaking for months and is not all on Eddy; it goes west into the alley.

 

–  Reminder of Civil War event at the Fort this weekend.

 

–   Anyone available to help with Clean-Up Day, April 22, 4-6PM.

 

 

  1. Guns (Time stamp 2:11:04) – No comments.

 

 

  1. VanHoecke (Time stamp 2:11:10)

      – Thank you to all who supported the Mary Queen of Angels Church School fundraiser. The amount raised at the event was $110,000.00 for the school.

 

–  Spots are still available for the upcoming REDI On the Green Golf Tournament on Friday, April 19th. Funding from that goes to local scholarships.

 

 

  1. Dancer (Time stamp 2:12:14)

      –  Reminder to citizens to get their golf cart permits for the year at City Hall.

–  Incident with UTV on National Ave. was clarified. It is owned by the Sheriff’s

Department and they were assisting the City Police Department on a call.

 

 

 

 

  1. VanHoecke stated he is still seeing underage operators of the UTV and golf carts on the streets and crossing US 69 Hwy, all possibilities of someone getting hurt.

 

 

City Attorney (Time stamp 2:14:30) – No comments.

 

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:14PM (Time stamp 8:14:35)  M. Guns seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

 

APRIL 16, 2024, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:14PM.

 

_______________________________________________________________________

Respectfully submitted by:

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk