Category Archives: Fort Scott

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Sports

Race Across America Stops at Fort Scott From June 18-22

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Left to right: Martin Hudecek-Ashwill, Martin Ashwill II (rear), Adam Ashwill, Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill  in this 2017 submitted photo.
The 42nd annual bicycle “Race Across America” will pass through Fort Scott this week, according to a press release.
The bicyclists will cross the length of the American continent, over 3000 miles from Pacific Ocean to Atlantic Ocean, stopping to sleep only when necessary. The average sleep time for a solo is 2-3 hours per day.
Along the route, they pass 54 time stations, spaced approximately 50 miles apart, where their crew must call RAAM headquarters to report the rider’s or team’s arrival time and any other important news.
The Fort Scott Time Station 30 is the 1,778.6 Mile mark.
“Our family runs the time station (Time Station 30) for Race Across America,” said Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill. “We’ve been doing it since 2015 and have entertained hundreds of cyclists and crews from all over the world.”
The family runs the time station from their house at 21 N. Caldwell, Fort Scott.
“We provide a place for the racers and crews to rest, get some food and water, use the bathroom, and we provide escort service to any stores they might want to go to and to Buck Run (Community Center)for showers,” Kristi said. We also fly their nation’s flag on Wall Street and cheer for them as they approach. It is a festive atmosphere and many racers and crew members have said this is the best time station on the route.”
The community provides for the visitors as well.
“Walgreens provides water, Fort Cinema provides popcorn, Taco Bell provides tacos, Dominos provides pizza, and the refrigerator is provided by Rent-A-Center, 4-States Sanitation provides trash bins,” she said. “In addition, Buck Run lets racers and crew members take showers there.”
“Martin also has a small repair shop here where he fixes their bicycles if they need him to,” she said. “He’s a bike mechanic and has an array of tools that the bike mechanic on the team may not have.”
Pictured is the kitchen of the Ashwill family. The family  gets food donations from area businesses for the racers.
“Race Across America is an annual international 3000+ mile bicycle race that starts in Oceanside, California and ends in Annapolis, Maryland and runs right through Fort Scott,” she said. “The solos have to make it in 12 days while the teams have to make it in 9 days. There are various times for women and older riders and teams, but the finish times are all around the numbers given.”
This year their are 31 solos and 16 teams.
“One of the teams is a four-man team from Germany in the age category of 80-84,” she said. “They have  nine days, 12 hours provided they leave with the solos.”
“The race starts on June 13 and we expect the first rider to arrive on June 18 or 19, depending on how things go in the desert.”
By June 22, all riders should be through the area.
“It gets so hot out there (in the desert) that sometimes the riders succumb to the heat and end up not finishing the race. The forecast for this year is that it’s supposed to be cooler and, if that’s the case, there won’t be as many DNF’s and this time station will be very busy. We are every year, but this will make it even more so.”
“DNF means Did Not Finish,” she said. “Nobody wants that, but it does happen often during this race.”
Martin Hudecek-Ashwill with Christoph Strasser from Austria.

The time station in Fort Scott will be staffed with enthusiastic volunteers and provide a festival-like atmosphere for spectators of all ages and the traveling group of racers and crews as they pass through the community, according to the press release from Ashwill.
The manned time station is located at 21 N. Caldwell and is an open house to all racers and crew, she said.
“Race officials are invited to take their sleep at the Time Station 30 house instead of spending money at a hotel or sleeping in their cars, which is the majority case,” Ashwill said. “In 2015 we opened our house for the event and the racers and crew loved it. It is the first time that the Race Across America actually had a house opened up to them.”
May-Brit Christiansen from Norway, Adam Ashwill, Johnny Stausholm, from Norway, Kristi Hudecek-Ashwill, Martin Hudecek-Ashwill holding the flag of Norway  in this 2017 submitted photo. “Johnny was the rider and had to DNF in Arizona, but still drove to Fort Scott to see the time station and brought gifts for Adam,” Kristi said.

“This is the only time station that has been in RAAM movies, one of which was shown at the AMC Theater in Olathe,” Kristi said. “The movies have been on airlines and have been shown all over the world.”

To learn more:

Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/raamtimestation30
You can track the racers LIVE by going to: https://www.raamrace.org/live-tracking
The time station members with Stefan Schlegel and his crew from Germany in 2017. Schlegel had to quit the race at this time station for health reasons and threw a barbecue for the family  and anyone who happened to walk by,
Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Gordon Parks Museum

Gordon Parks Museum: Free Photography Workshops

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Free Photography Workshops Sponsored by
Kansas State University Art Department

Fort Scott, Kan. June. 14, 2023 – Shreepad Joglekar, Associate Professor of Photography at Kansas State University and Professional Photographer, Veretta Cobler will provide free workshops series on working with film and digital photography.

These in-depth workshops are designed to help any beginner, student, novice and the professional learn how to get the most out of their film or digital cameras, or even cell phones. More experience photographers will learn some techniques to help them improve and enhance their work.

Interested participants are encouraged to attend the whole series to benefit the most.
These workshops will also help to prepare photographers to be part of the Back to Fort Scott, Now project in taking photos with the reimaging of Gordon Parks photographs that he had taken in 1950 for a LIFE magazine assignment.

The workshops will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023, Friday, July 7, 2023 and Friday, August 11, 2023. The times for each of the workshops will be 10:00a.m. – 12:00p.m

The workshops are free to attend, but registration to attend each the workshops is required. Registration is available either online at http//www.gordonparkscenter.org/events, or by phone 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 or by email at [email protected]
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Fort Scott, Government, Schools

U234 Board Met On June 12

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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, June 12, 2023

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, June 12, 2023, for their regular monthly meeting at the board office.

 

President Danny Brown opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda with removal of 8.9 KERMP insurance and the consent agenda as follows:

  • Board Minutes from the May 8, 2023, regular board meeting and May 19, 2023, special board meeting
  • Financials-Cash Flow Report
  • Check Register
  • Payroll – May 19, 2023 – $1,663,532.16
  • Activity Fund accounts
  • Extended Trip Applications, Fundraising Applications, Gifts & Donations
  • Resolution 22-14 Banking Resolution

 

Licensed Tiger Team Member – Superintendent Destry Brown recognized Jannah Farrington as the Licensed Tiger Team Member of the Month.

Left U234 Superintendent Destry Brown and Jannah Farrington. Submitted photo.

 

  • Farrington is a Special Education teacher at Fort Scott Middle School. Mrs. Farrington organizes the Special Olympics held for students and coordinates going to Pitt State for participation. She is always positive and trying to find what is the best for kids. Mrs. Farrington has taught for USD 234 for 12 years.

 

Classified Tiger Team Member – Superintendent Destry Brown recognized Cheryl Marsh as the Classified Tiger Team Member of the Month.

Destry Brown and Cheryl Marsh. Submitted photo.
  • Marsh is a Kitchen Manager at Fort Scott High School. Cheryl is gracious and kind to everyone. She has a can-do attitude and does what is best for schools. Mrs. Marsh has been with USD 234 for 25 years.

 

Superintendent Destry Brown recognized Bill Michaud as the Volunteer of the Year. Mr. Michaud is the coordinator of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce mentoring program that matches local leaders with Fort Scott High School students.

Destry Brown and Bill Michaud. Submitted photo.

 

Board Members shared comments.

 

Superintendent Destry Brown provided an update to the board on services provided by the school nurses in the district, shared information regarding the Core Community program, discussed a June 27th special board meeting for the purposes of closing down the budget and other end of year items.  He also noted two grants that had been applied for: Safe and Secure Grant and Mental Health Grant.

 

Assistant Superintendent Dalaina Smith updated the board on end of year data, highlighting celebrations, curricular and assessment team progress, Science Resources, the new assessment program, and Summer Enrichment.

 

Gina Shelton, Finance Director, updated the board on new employee orientation, USD 234 job fair to be held on July 11th & 12th at the FSMS Community space, and final categorical aid numbers for Special Education.

 

The board approved changing the regular July board meeting from July 10th to July 17th, still to be held at the Board of Education, 424 S. Main Street, at 5:30 p.m.

 

Superintendent Brown shared information with the board in regard to adoption of a policy related to out-of-district student enrollment.

 

The board approved the following items:

  • Workers Compensation Renewal 2023-24 – KASB Workers Comp
  • Trash Bid & Recommendation – 5-year bid to 4 State Sanitation
  • Audit Contract for the year ending June 30, 2023, with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton, CPAs
  • Ratification of Negotiated Agreement for 2023-24, including changes to Supplemental Salary Schedule
  • Curriculum Associates – iReady – K-8 Assessment & Intervention
  • Approval of Personnel Report
  • Approval of ESSER Premium Pay for 2023-24
  • Approval of Classified Raises for 2023-24
  • Approval of Special Services Raises for 2023-24
  • Approval of Director Raises for 2023-24
  • Approval of Administrative Raises for 2023-24

 

The board tabled the following items:

  • CDWG Technology Carts & Supply

 

The board heard an audio recording from patron Tracy King.

 

The board went into an executive session for negotiation and personnel matters.

 

Vice-President Barrows adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED EMPLOYMENT

June 12, 2023

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

  • Billionis, Connie – Retirement – Board of Education Deputy Clerk, Secretary, Alumni Recording Secretary, as of May 31, 2023
  • Campbell, Carlee – Resignation – Fort Scott Preschool Center Teacher at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Ericson, Tyler – Resignation – Winfield Scott Teacher at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Mead, Jenice – Resignation – Fort Scott Middle Teacher at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Wilcox, Ashley – Winfield Scott Technology Teacher and Professional Development at the end of the 2022-23 school year

 

TRANSFERS/REASSIGNMENTS:

For the 2023-24 school year:

Certified:

  • Thomas, Rachelle – Transfer from Eugene Ware 5th Grade to Eugene Ware Special Education Teacher

 

Classified:

  • Hodges, Julius – Transfer from Winfield Scott Paraprofessional to Fort Scott High School Paraprofessional
  • Lisica, Michelle – Transfer from Eugene Ware Paraprofessional to Eugene Ware Speech Paraprofessional
  • Willard, Siarra – Transfer from Eugene Ware Paraprofessional to split Speech/Paraprofessional
  • Witt, Randi – Transfer from MIS Clerk to Winfield Scott Speech Paraprofessional

 

EMPLOYMENT:

Certified Recommendations for the 2023-24 school year:

  • Casey, Hunter – Winfield Scott 2nd Grade Teacher
  • Cate, Kassie – Winfield Scott Elementary Special Education Teacher
  • Stanley, Billie – Eugene Ware 5th Grade Teacher
  • Turner, Candy – Fort Scott Preschool Center Teacher
  • Workman, Darcy – Eugene Ware 4th Grade Teacher

 

Classified Recommendations for the 2023-24 school year:

  • Ludeman, Sara – Fort Scott High School Paraprofessional

 

Supplemental Recommendations for the 2023-24 school year:

  • Blackburn, Brendon – Fort Scott Middle School Head Football Coach
  • Blackburn, Brendon – Fort Scott Middle School Summer Weights and Conditioning
  • Brown, Lindsey – Fort Scott High School Girls Summer Conditioning
  • Feeback, Brennen – Fort Scott High School Assistant Football Coach
  • Heatherly, Julie – HOSA sponsor
  • Eugene Ware Elementary Mentors
Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee At Varia Resale Clothing June 15

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ANNOUNCING THIS WEEK’S
CHAMBER COFFEE
Join us for Chamber Coffee hosted by

Varia Resale Clothing

Thursday, June 15th

8am

114 E. 23rd St.

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by Varia Quality Resale Clothing, Thursday, June 15th at 8 a.m. at 114 E. 23rd St.

Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees may register to win a special drawing.

Varia is a resale clothing shop, established June 8, 2021. Varia has women’s, teens, and children’s clothing, including purses, shoes, jewelry, and miscellaneous.  Varia wants to provide service to the community by offering affordable prices and used items of good quality. They accept name brand clothing in excellent condition. Varia pays 50% of set price for item, no consignment.

Chamber members and guests are invited to Chamber Coffee events each Thursday at 8 a.m. to network, make announcements, hear about happenings in the community as well as learn about the host business or organization.

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.

 

We hope to see you there!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members
shown below!
FORT SCOTT AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
620-223-3566
Facebook  Twitter
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Bourbon County, Food, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Farmers Market Feature: The Hamiltons’ Artisan Bakery

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We are happy to have The Hamiltons’ Artisan Bakery as a part of the Fort Scott Farmers’ Market for their 2nd year! The Hamiltons can be found at the market Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to noon and Tuesday afternoons from 4-6 p.m. They will be bringing sourdough breads and a variety of baked treats each week. Come out and get some!

The farmers market is located on Skubitz Plaza, in front of the Fort Scott National Historic Site.

Exercise, Fort Scott, Youth

Lucas Kelley: New Buck Run Recreation Director as of July 1

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Lucas Kelley is the new Buck Run Community Center Recreation Director. Submitted photo.

Lucas Kelley will assume the position of recreation director at Buck Run Community Center on July 1, with the retirement of Tom Robertson. Robertson served for 23 years in the position.

Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Avenue.

“He has been here since May 1, and will take over on July 1,” Robertson said.

“I feel so fortunate,” Kelley said. “Tom has done wonders with the rec. department, he has made it (the transition) easy on me.”

Kelley, 24, graduated from Houston, MO. high school and attended Fort Scott Community College on a basketball scholarship, where he earned an associate of science degree. He then went to Pittsburg State University where he earned a bachelors degree in exercise science in December 2021.

“All through high school I worked at the rec. department, then at FSCC I was assistant coach for one year and also refereed for some of the rec. programs here,” Kelley said. “I then moved to northwest Arkansas and worked in cardiac rehabilitation for a year, before moving to Fort Scott to take this job.”

He is married to Makayla Kelley.

For Kelley, the best part of this new job is “service, and getting to help people and get them involved through recreations.”

Kelley is working on making sign-up for leagues and payment of fees online, “So they won’t have to come to the building every time they want to sign up for something,” he said. “I’m in the process upgrading the system we have now.”

His community involvement so far has been with the Healthy Bourbon County’s Local Health Equity Team and also enjoys Bingo Nights at Memorial Hall to help support Veterans, he said.

 

 

Entertainment, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Library to Host 2nd Annual LibraryCon on June 17

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The library welcomes the community to a collaborative event celebrating fandoms and fans of all kinds on June 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library.

 

SEEKING TALENT and VOLUNTEERS

If you are an author, artist, cosplayer, or a person with a talent, hobby, or skill you’d like to share via a workshop, sign up as a presenter using this form: Authors, Artists & Presenters

If you would be willing to lead a trivia session, judge the cosplay contest, donate food or prizes, or help out in any other way, sign up to help through this form: Volunteers or Donors

 

The schedule of events includes:

10 – 1   Book Signings & Author Talks with Local Authors Maria Whitson, Maranda Collins, MaryBarbara McKay, and Ronda Hassig

 

10 – 1   Tabletop Gaming with Sarah Klassen

 

Presenter Jan Hedges, Hedgehog.INK!

Word Weavers Workshops

An introduction to the art of weaving words into a poem, story, song, etc.
Participants will be involved in writing activities. Writing materials will be provided.

Children 12 & under              11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
Teens & Adults 13 & above  12:00 – 12:45 p.m.

 

12:30 – 1  Cosplay Contest for all ages with winners receiving prizes and small trophies.

 

Trivia, Digital Scavenger Hunt, Crafts, Toys, and Cosplay Meetups will take place throughout the event.

 

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

U234 Board Agenda for June 12

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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

JUNE 12, 2023 – 5:30 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0       Call Meeting to Order         

2.0       Flag Salute

3.0       Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)

4.0       Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)

            4.1       Board Minutes

            4.2       Financials-Cash Flow Report

            4.3       Check Register

            4.4       Payroll – May 19, 2023 – $1,663,532.16

            4.5       Activity Fund accounts

            4.6       Extended Trip Applications 2023-24

            4.7       Fundraising Applications 2023-24

4.8       Gifts & Donations 2022-23

            4.9       Resolution 22-14: Banking Resolution

5.0       Recognitions

5.1 Student Recognition

5.2 Employee Recognition

5.3 Board Member Acknowledgements

6.0       Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)

            6.1       Superintendent’s Report

            6.2       Assistant Superintendent’s Report

            6.3       Finance Director’s Report

7.0       Old Business

7.1       Roof Payment #5 (Action Item)

8.0       New Business

8.1       Change of July Meeting Date to July 17, 2023 (Action Item)

8.2       Workers Compensation Renewal 2023-24 (Action Item)

8.3       Trash Bid & Recommendation (Action Item)

8.4       Audit Contract for the year ending June 30, 2023 (Action Item)

8.5       Ratification of Negotiated Agreement for 2023-24, including changes to Supplemental Salary Schedule (Action Item)

8.6       Open Enrollment Information (Information Item)

8.7       CDWG Technology Carts & Supply (Action Item)

           

           

8.8       Curriculum Associates – iReady – K-8 Assessment & Intervention (Action Item)

8.9       Property, Casualty, Fleet, Cyber Insurance 2023-24 (Action Item)

9.0       Public Forum

10.0     Other Business – Personnel Matters

10.1     Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)

10.2     Exit Executive Session

10.3     Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)

10.4     Approval of ESSER Premium Pay for 2023-24 (Action Item)

10.5     Approval of Classified Raises for 2023-24 (Action Item)

10.6     Approval of Special Services Raises for 2023-24 (Action Item)

10.7     Approval of Director Raises for 2023-24 (Action Item)

10.8     Approval of Administrative Raises for 2023-24 (Action Item)

11.0     Adjourn Meeting

           

Entertainment, Fort Scott

Patty LaRoche’s New Book: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection

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The cover of Patty LaRoche’s new book: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection. Submitted graphic.

Twenty years in the making, Patty LaRoche has written a book entitled: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection

LaRoche said for years, her friends have encouraged her to write her humorous stories about being rejected/humiliated.

Patty LaRoche. 2023

“As it turned out, everybody I met had their own anecdotes of not measuring up, and some even shared that they wished they could go back to their teen/early-adult years and not give other people the power to make them feel demeaned or unvalued.,” LaRoche said. ” If they could do that, their lives would have been more confident, more real.”

“As a high school teacher, I observed my students’ insecurities on a daily basis, but when a group of my senior girls asked me to lead them in a Bible study, I realized just how pervasive these problems were,” she said. “Could anyone escape the lies of the enemy (Satan) that they weren’t good enough?  Between my own life, my friends’ lives and my students’ lives, I had plenty of stories to share.”

An excerpt from her book:

“When Dave pitched for the California Angels in the late ’70s, a young outfielder was traded to the team. His wife and newborn soon arrived. I’ll call her Carol. Carol’s entrance into the wives’ waiting room following the opening day game was legendary. She was stunningly beautiful and trendy, dressing much more chic (is ‘chicer’ a word?) than the rest of the wives. After meeting her, I introduced her to the other wives and arranged to sit with her the following evening. We hit it off.”

“Returning home from the ballpark a few days later, Dave told me that Carol’s family needed a place to live while their newly purchased house was being renovated. I welcomed the addition. After all, Carol was special. Not only was she a head-turner, she was multi-talented. From singing to playing the piano to dancing to being a competitive tennis player to loving Jesus, Carol was the full package.

“Her giftedness was recognized by everyone.

“Except Carol.

“The evening of the first day she moved in was proof. While I waited with my infant son to leave for the ballpark, Carol descended the stairs looking like a movie goddess. A goddess starring in a tragedy. In her opinion, her striking outfit had struck out. Handing me her sleeping baby in his carry-seat, she returned upstairs to start over. A fuss that was repeated . . .

three times.

“With each new ensemble, I bolstered my compliments, but they were incapable of undoing whatever negatives had been given permission to determine her value. This scene was acted out daily, and with each tearful entry, Carol’s mascara-dripping makeup needed to be reapplied. Needless to say, we didn’t make it to the ballpark for the singing of the National Anthem. Instead, we made a grand entrance, with Carol being the recipient of ogles and admiration. Fans saw her beauty. Other wives did too. Her attempt at perfectionism was her attempt to mask tremendous insecurities. And even though, in her mind, she was never enough, she pretended well and fooled a lot of people.

Which, as we all know, is exhausting.”

About Patty Laroche

“I grew up in Fort Scott but moved to Washington, D.C. to become a flight attendant (then, “stewardess”) in my early 20’s,” she said. ” It was then I met my husband and entered his world of professional baseball (where I soon learned that there were plenty of incidents of ‘not measuring up’ I would add to my repertoire).”

“Dave had two young daughters from a previous marriage, and together we had three sons,” she said.  “After moving over 35 times in 50 years of marriage, we recently sold our part-time condominium in Mexico and will be moving yet again.”

“My pastimes include hanging with family and friends, writing, playing tennis/pickleball and laughing. Most of all, I love spending time with Jesus, and I give him all the credit for this book.”

LaRoche has written a weekly Christian column for the Fort Scott Tribune, the Fort Scott Biz and the Nevada Daily Mail for several years.

 

Where to purchase her new book:

Her website: Alittlefaithlift.com

Or one can pre-order  through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Books a Million, after June 25.

The publisher is Carpenter’s Son Publishing, the publishing date is July 25, 2023.

The back cover of Patty LaRoche’s new book. Submitted graphic.

 

Entertainment, Fort Scott

Live Music and Lots of Laughs at Memorial Hall On June 9

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A live music karaoke night is planned at Memorial Hall on June 9, this Friday, to benefit the historic building.

Karaoke is a form of entertainment, offered typically by bars and clubs, in which people take turns to sing popular songs into a microphone, according to Oxford Dictionary.

Josh Jones and Cory Byers are spearheading the event to benefit Memorial Hall, which is owned by the City of Fort Scott.

“Proceeds will go to fixing up Memorial Hall,” Jones said.

Food, provided  by Care to Share, a local helping organization, and drink will be available for sale, with Sharky’s Pub and Grub providing a full bar.

The band is Left of Center, playing classic rock and country music, according to the press release.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with live music at 7 p.m.

One can grab a few friends to sing together or sing alone. The entry fee is $10 per person.

Tables for six people can be reserved for $60.

About Memorial Hall

Memorial Hall, at the intersection of South National Avenue and East Third Street, (1 E. Third) is a performance and event center, and  was built in 1925. It is one of the properties included in the Historic Downtown Fort Scott District.

The entrance steps were recently repaired by Mid Continental Restoration Inc. of Fort Scott.

To reserve Memorial Hall, call the City of Fort Scott at 620.223-0550.

In the lower level of the building, at 221 S. National,  is a genealogy organization, the Old Fort Genealogical Society. This  not-for-profit corporation  is dedicated to preserving the history of the community  with records, newspapers, books, photos, school annuals, city directories, obituaries, newspaper microfilm reels, and many other records.

 

 

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Minutes of May 16

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

Minutes of May 16, 2023                                                                         Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held May 16, 2023 at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners T. Van Hoecke, K. Harrington, E. Woellhof were present with Mayor M. Wells.

 

FLAG SALUTE AND INVOCATION:  M. Wells, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

PROCLAMATIONS:   M. Wells made a Proclamation from the City of Fort Scott for National Nursing Home Week (May 14-20, 2023).  He stated that he also appeared at Medicalodges and presented the same Proclamation and a blessing over the residents on May 15, 2023.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Police Chief Jason Pickert, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, Jackson Tough/Director of Public Relations and Tourism, Scott Flater/Director of Water Utilities, Justin Pregont, Dean Striler, Michael Clancy/RenoDry, Mark McCoy/REDI Chairman, Rob Harrington/REDI Director, Tayton Majors/REDI, Emily Diebolt/REDI, Carolyn Sinn, Kendall Schoenrock

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA:

  1. Jones moved to approve the agenda as submitted for May 16, 2023. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED AGENDA AS SUBMITTED FOR May 16, 2023.

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 2, 2023
  2. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1336-A – $799,127.78
  3. April Financials

 

  1. Jones moved to approve the Consent Agenda. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

 

Dean Striler:  Addressed the Commission regarding the progress of campground and renovation projects approved on February 28, 2022. He stated that the Commission approved the following:  Shelter House, ADA-Compliant Bathroom, Water, Sewer, Fishing Docks, Electricity, Lighting, Primitive Camping and RV Campsites. He would like to know the status of each of the items because as of date, nothing has been done.

 

  1. Matkin stated the Shelter House has been painted and cleaned up, mowing has been happening, all the docks are in place.

 

  1. Wells asked if the items other than the docks have been addressed. B. Matkin stated no.

 

  1. Striler asked for the reason behind that because it was stated over a year and a half ago that the funds were approved by resolution and signed by J. Jones, who was mayor at the time.

 

  1. Wells stated that when he was the Commission’s Representative for the Lake Advisory Board, he did bring these items to the attention of the Commission twice to approve the water line so the project could continue. He stated that he did not have the votes from the other Commissioners to move forward with those projects.

 

  1. Striler asked what is being done with those funds. He stated that he heard there was talk that the lake funds would be used for Memorial Hall improvements.

 

  1. Jones stated that currently they are sitting idle in the account, and it takes a majority of the Commission to approve moving expenditures out of that account.

 

  1. Striler asked what is being done to move forward.

 

  1. VanHoecke stated that the Commission received presentations for the campground and there was confusion about the size and cost, which slowed things down.

 

Further details about the plans were discussed.

 

  1. Striler asked what will be done with the money that is currently in that fund. He stated that certainly things can be done.

 

  1. Jones stated that he would like to see a sight plan for the primitive camping by the next meeting.

 

Further discussion was had about the preliminary plans versus what is financially possible. J. Jones directed B. Matkin to find out what items could be taken care of in the very near future minus electricity and water.

 

Further ideas were discussed on improvements that could happen to the primitive camp site and other items that need immediate attention.

 

  1. Matin also stated that the improvements were taken into Executive Session a few months back that cannot be discussed.

 

  1. Striler again asked what will happen next.

 

  1. Wells stated that B. Matkin will look at the items brought to the Commission’s attention, find some prices, and have those at the next meeting so that we can possibly move forward.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 

  1. Consideration of Approval of RenoDry Contract for Memorial Hall – Michael Clancy:

 

Discussion was had about the Commissioners speaking with references regarding the system to be installed and how it can benefit Memorial Hall in its present and future condition.

 

  1. Clancy stated he will do the work May 22nd and May 24th, 2023.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the contract for services from RenoDry from Memorial Hall in the amount of $35,000.00. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONTRACT FOR SERVICES FROM RENODRY FROM MEMORIAL HALL IN THE AMOUNT OF $35,000.00.

 

  1. Consideration of Lagoon Aeration Proposal – Phase II – J. Dickman:
  2. Dickman stated that the proposal was not ready for this meeting and that they are still refining the numbers. J. Dickman stated that he will confirm that the proposal will be ready by the June 6 meeting.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to table the Consideration of Lagoon Aeration Proposal – Phase II until the June 6, 2023, meeting. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO TABLE THE CONSIDERATION OF THE LAGOON AERATION PROPOSAL FOR PHASE II UNTIL THE JUNE 6, 2023, MEETING.

 

  1. Youth Activities Team (Y.A.T.) 1311 S. National Going To Auction, tabled from May 2, 2023, meeting:

 

  1. Jones deferred to Bob Farmer regarding the need for a motion. B. Farmer stated that he believed it to be best to have a motion on the record.

 

  1. Jones moved to allow the Y.A.T. to proceed with selling the house at 1311 S. National.

 

  1. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ALLOW THE Y.A.T. TO PROCEED WITH SELLING THE HOUSE AT 1311 S. NATIONAL.

 

  1. Consideration of Ordinance – Vacancy in Commission – Revision for 2023: Ordinance No. 3746 was drafted by B. Farmer and J. Jones and presented to the Commission as follows: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING 3290 SECTION 2.60.010 (VACANCY IN OFFICE – HOW FILLED) OF CHAPTER 2.60 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE. ORDINANCE 3290 SECTION 2.60.010 is amended as follows:
  2. In case of any vacancy in the office of mayor or commissioner, the remaining members of the board of commissioners shall, within ten days or the next regularly schedule commission meeting, after the occurrence of a vacancy, elect some suitable person, by majority vote, who shall reside inside the territorial limits of the City of Fort Scott, Kansas and shall be a qualified elector therein to fill the vacancy for the balance of the unexpired term of such office. During the calendar year 2023 there will be allowed a onetime exception to the ten-day rule and will allow vacancy to be filled by a ballot at the next general election being held in Bourbon county as which time the person to fill the unexpired term will be placed on the ballot and elected by the people. If the remaining members cannot agree upon a suitable person, then they shall call upon the City Attorney who shall cast the decisive vote for such an appointment. All remaining sections, listed as B – E of Ordinance 3290 Section 2.60.010 shall remain in effect and be unchanged.

 

Discussion was had about the current Ordinance and the potential change. Commissioners voiced concerns as to how this would be better than the Ordinance currently in effect.

 

  1. Jones stated he would hold of moving until the election and therefore moved to approve the Ordinance as presented.

 

  1. Woellhof asked J. Jones if he was making a commitment to stay on until the election. J. Jones stated yes.

 

  1. Farmer stated that the minute you are technically not a resident, you are off the Commission. J. Jones stated that it is based on intent.

 

  1. Wells seconded.

 

  1. Woellhof was called to vote and stated that he wanted to be clear that he is all for letting people vote, but if J. Jones has given his commitment that he will stay until the election, he (E. Woellhof) will vote yes.

 

  1. Woellhof, J. Jones and M. Wells voted aye. Katie Harrington and T. VanHoecke voted nay.

 

APPROVED TO PASS AND APPROVE ORDINANCE NO. 3746 ON MAY 16, 2023.

 

APPEARANCES:

 

  1. Jackson Tough /Director of Public Relations and Tourism: J. Tough appeared before the Commission to update them on what is happening in Tourism. He stated that the most recent completion is the 3,000 + rack cards that have been distributed, which tend to be one of the most successful tourism campaigns. He stated that he is also working on new signage on the highway and working with KDOT for new signage for the National Cemetery. He also announced that Fort Scott has been selected to host the 2024 Kansas Museum Conference and he will be working on a video to promote.
  2. Tough stated that the Osage Ballet will be at the FSCC Ellis Center on July 21 and 22, 2023, and the Gordon Parks Celebration is coming up October 5-7, 2023. He has also been involved in the 1st Colored Infantry Mural, Bourbon on the Rocks Gravel Grinding, SEK Regional Tourism Conference, LaRoche quarterly e-mails and the newly created Stay and Play that is creating packages with Woodland Hills Golf Course and are hotels.
  3. Tough fielded questions from Commissioners regarding GeoFencing and comparisons of last years’ statistics to this year’s numbers for tourism.
  4. Matkin stated that with Tourism he believes Fort Scott needs to be proactive and not reactive and focus on networking and building relationships all over the area. He also believes the City’s new App (MyCivicService) will help with Tourism as well.

 

  1. Business Retention by REDI: R. Harrington addressed the Commission by stating that REDI was present to update the Commission on a regular basis as requested.  Tayton Majors updated the Commission about the projects he has been working on for REDI regarding business retention and expansion. T. Majors stated that he collaborates with the grant writer, marketing specialist and the director on each project he works on.  T. Majors outlined that he has been working on with REDI. He stated that the largest project is the creation of a formal business retention and expansion program. It has not yet been completed but has some tentative findings that are eye-opening and have yielded some amazing results.  T. Majors talked about the need for healthcare and moderate-income housing in the community.  He will collaborate with B. Matkin on infrastructure needs.  T. Majors also stated that REDI, in partnership with the Chamber, will host a Rural Workforce Development Summit on June 22, 2023.  He stated that he is also involved in the 1st Colored Infantry Mural. He finished by informing the Commission that he will be leading the development of a Small Business Incentive Package. He stated that each project that REDI does is in close coordination and compliance with the 2018 Comprehensive Plan and the Strategic Initiatives that were discussed at the last meeting.

 

  1. Harrington asked that the City consider an Executive Session at this time to discuss a possible development that could come to Fort Scott.

 

  1. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the session will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager, the City Attorney, Rob Harrington, Mark McCoy, and Kendall Schoenrock. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:18PM.

 

  1. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED HAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO THE FINANCIAL AFFAIRS OR TRADE SECRETS OF CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, TRUSTS, AND INDIVIDUAL PROPRIETORSHIPS EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319(B)(4). IN THE SESSION WILL BE THE (5) CITY COMMISSIONERS, THE CITY MANAGER, THE CITY ATTORNEY, ROB HARRINGTON, MARK MCCOY, AND KENDALL SCHOENROCK. THE OPEN MEETING WILL RESUME IN THE COMMISSION ROOM AT 7:18PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to come out of Executive Session at 7:18PM. K. Harrington seconded. T. VanHoecke, E. Woellhof, and K. Harrington voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:18PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the session will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager, the City Attorney, Rob Harrington, Mark McCoy, and Kendall Schoenrock. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:30PM.

 

  1. Harrington seconded. T. VanHoecke, E. Woellhof, and K. Harrington voted aye.

 

APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION PURSUANT TO THE FINANCIAL AFFAIRS OR TRADE SECRETS OF CORPORATIONS, PARTNERSHIPS, TRUSTS, AND INDIVIDUAL PROPRIETORSHIPS EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319(B)(4). IN THE SESSION WILL BE THE (5) CITY COMMISSIONERS, THE CITY MANAGER, THE CITY ATTORNEY, ROB HARRINGTON, MARK MCCOY, AND KENDALL SCHOENROCK. THE OPEN MEETING WILL RESUME IN THE COMMISSION ROOM AT 7:30PM.

 

  1. Wells moved to come out of Executive Session at 7:30PM with no action. J. Jones seconded. J. Jones, K. Harrington, and M. Wells voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 7:30PM.

 

  1. Harrington took the podium and stated that he has had some discussions with Bond Counselors as well as B. Farmer and B. Matkin regarding a project we’ve been working on for a couple of years now. He stated that he is coming to the City Commission tonight for REDI to recommend the City Commission authorize City staff and Bond Counsel to move forward on a TIF and a STAR Bond District.

 

  1. Matkin stated that he was given authorization as City staff with the Bond Counsel to move forward with the process of establishing the STAR Bond and TIF Districts for the project that R. Harrington has been working on.

 

  1. Jones asked what the next step would be.

 

  1. Farmer stated that the next step would be discussions with the Kansas Department of Commerce. He said it basically means that the State is underwriting a portion of this project with their share of sales tax money that they receive from the district that is formed here. He stated that the developer has a list of what they want to develop here. The State determines whether any of it is eligible or if they are interested in using taxpayer’s money to develop the plan. It then comes back to the City to fill in all the details.

 

 

 

 

  1. Wells stated that at this point our Bond Counsel and our City are asking permission to go ahead and proceed forward with the establishment of drawing up the different districts or the TIF and STAR Bond so that we can move forward with the sports complex.

 

  1. Farmer stated that the County will have to go into the program with the City because some of the land is within City limits and some is outside.

 

  1. Jones moved to move forward with the establishment of the TIF and STAR Bond Districts. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE TIF AND STAR BOND DISTRICTS.

 

  1. Justin Pregont – Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2023 – A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE SUBMISSION OF THE MODERATE-INCOME HOUSING GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CERTAIN HOUSING WITHIN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS TO ACCOMPANY THE GRANT APPLICATION TO THE KANSAS HOUSING RESOURCES CORPORATION:

 

  1. Jones moved to approve Resolution 9-2023. Katie Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED RESOLUTION 9-2023.

 

  1. Lindsay Madison – Consideration of Application for Parade Permit – Good Ol’ Days Festival Annual Parade “Back to the Bricks with Family, Friends and Fun,” Request is the same as last year so she will not appear, only submit application:

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the application for the Good Ol’ Days Festival Annual Parade as submitted on the application by Lindsay Madison for June 2, 2023, beginning at 6:00PM. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE APPLICATION FOR THE GOOD OL’ DAYS FESTIVAL ANNUAL PARADE AS SUBMITTED ON THE APPLICATION BY LINDSAY MADISON FOR JUNE 2, 2023, BEGINNING AT 6:00PM.

 

PUBLIC HEARING:  None

 

NEW BUSINESS:

 

  1. Split Case Pump for WTP – S. Flater: S. Flater/Water Utilities Director requested that the Commission consider and take action to accept the quote from Alliance Pump and Mechanical Services, Inc. to provide labor and materials for the repair of the Goulds 3410 6X8 split case pump. Staff will rebuild split case pump #3 om the High Service Pump Station at the Water Production Plant. S. Flater stated that this item was on the capital improvement and is routine maintenance but must be done before problems arise.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the purchase of the Split Case Pump from Alliance Pump and Mechanical Service, Inc. for the Water Treatment Plant in the amount of $12,671.92. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO PURCHASE THE SPLIT CASE PUMP FROM ALLIANCE PUMP AND MECHANICAL SERVICE, INC. FOR THE WATER TREATEMENT PLANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,671.92.

 

  1. Consideration of Park Advisory Board’s unanimous recommendation to fill vacancy with candidate Kimberly Young: It was stated for transparency that Kimberly is a City Employee and employees are eligible to sit on an advisory board as a citizen.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the recommendation of the Park Advisory Board to fill the vacant seat with applicant Kimberly Young. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE PARK ADVISORY BOARD TO FILL THE VACANT SEAT WITH APPLICANT KIMBERLY YOUNG.

 

  1. Consideration of Acquisition of Land for Economic Development and Construction of a Manufacturing Plant: M. Wells moved to have Letter of Intent sent out to move forward with the project.

 

  1. VanHoecke questioned whether the information can be disclosed to the public.

 

  1. Farmer stated it is reasonable to discuss concerns.

 

MOTION DIES FOR LACK OF A SECOND.

 

  1. Consideration of Approval of Boundary Survey for 37+/- Acre Parcel and Certificate of Survey of a 20-Acre Parcel Split out from boundary for the Acquisition of land for Economic Development and Construction for a Manufacturing Plant to be completed by Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. for $5,000.00. – M. Wells

 

  1. Wells requested that the matter be tabled until May 17, 2023, Special City Commission Meeting.

 

  1. Establishment of a Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) – M. Wells: After discussion with the Commission, it was decided to direct the City Manager to move forward and work with developers to pick (3) sites for developing RHID’s in the community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

REPORTS AND COMMENTS:

 

City Manager:  B. Matkin

  1. Memorial Hall steps require another coat to be completed.
  2. Diehl, Banwart and Bolton will begin the City’s audit.
  3. The “Icehouse” is down. There have not been plans or a timetable presented.
  4. Rearing Pond concerns addressed
  5. There is no leak on the dam.

 

City Engineer:  J. Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspection

1, Bennet Construction has begun mobilizing for the CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project and their sign is up.

  1. Survey is completed on Wall Street.
  2. 6th and Horton – request for Certifications is to the Clerk

 

 

COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS:

 

  1. VanHoecke:
  2. Thankful for the much-needed rain.
  3. Not against Economic Development, just concerned about money spent.
  4. Thank you B. Matkin – discussion about Golf Course produced do solutions.

 

  1. Woellhof:
  2. Announced he will run in the November 2023 election to maintain a seat on the Fort Scott City Commission.
  3. Gunn Park Road is in bad shape – any plans?
  4. In favor of the City contributing to the Fireworks Display this year.

 

  1. Harrington:
  2. School is out for the summer, reminder to be extra observant and careful.
  3. The Lake Advisory board requested that the Commission temporarily restrict wake boards and similar activities due to low lake level and blue algae.

 

  1. Jones: No Comment

 

  1. Wells:
  2. Congratulations to FSHS Baseball who won the Regional Championship.
  3. Osage Ballet at the Ellis Center (FSCC) July 21st and 22nd.

 

 

City Attorney Comments:  No comments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjournment:

 

  1. Harrington moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:40PM. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:40PM.

 

 

Respectfully submitted for approval,

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk