Category Archives: Fort Scott

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 8–9, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 8–9, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 189 calls for service on September 8–9, 2026.

September 8, 2026

Reports and Arrests

Lost Property — 11:05 AM, 293 E 20th St. Complaint No. 26-0832BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 1:49 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0833BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 5:07 PM, 1234 125th, Redfield. Complaint No. 26-0834BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 7:57 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0835BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Fraud — 7:59 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01456FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 10:43 PM, 1920 S Main St. Complaint No. 26-0836BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Fire and EMS

Fire / Grass — 10:13 AM, 407 130th, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Grass — 2:34 PM, 411 130th, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS / Transfer — 4:02 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 5:07 PM, 802 W 18th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Medical Alarm — 6:51 PM, 923 Holbrook St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 7:34 PM, 101 Andrick St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 7:36 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 8:38 PM, 102 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 9:11 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 9:16 PM, 724 S Clark. Disposition: * Multiple.

Public Assist — 11:55 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 7:09 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:08 AM, 3rd St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:48 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:55 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:57 PM, 25th, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:48 PM, 21st St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:56 PM, 2nd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:50 PM, 6th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:10 PM, Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:46 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:43 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Other Calls for Service

Check Subject — 1:08 AM, 1010 Park Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Criminal Damage — 1:26 AM, 204 5th St, Uniontown. Disposition: * Multiple.

27,28,29 Checks — 2:33 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Non-Injury — 7:02 AM, 65 Hwy, Xenia. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 7:37 AM, 603 S National Ave. Disposition: RPTS.

Seeking Advice/Info / County — 7:52 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Court — 8:28 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 8:40 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:54 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:55 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 11:04 AM, 113 Barbee St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:56 AM, 601 N Barbee, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 12:24 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Remove Subject — 12:32 PM, 303 Washington St, Uniontown. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 12:34 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 12:49 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 1:52 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: 77.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 2:38 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

911 / Accidental — 2:44 PM, 1616 Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Check Records / Criminal History — 3:35 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 3:42 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

SRO — 3:49 PM, 1105 E 12th, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: NR.

Other Agency Assist — 4:07 PM, 39 Hwy, Neosho County. Disposition: HBD.

Follow-Up — 5:49 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 5:49 PM, 11th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 1:29 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 1:36 PM, 401 Woodlandhills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

Follow-Up — 3:14 PM, 109 S Broadway, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Check Vehicle — 8:28 PM, 1920 S Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 9:01 PM, 102 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 10:16 PM, 3 W Oak St, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Area — 10:23 PM, N Judson. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Panic — 10:27 PM, 1238 S Judson. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 11:52 PM, 121 N Washington St. Disposition: HBO.

September 9, 2026

Reports and Arrests

Juvenile — 8:43 AM, Margrave St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01457FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Warrant Service / Arrest — 11:00 AM, 2420 S Main St. Complaint No. 26-01458FS. Disposition: ARRC.

Suspicious Activity — 12:15 PM, 733 S Little St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01459FS. Disposition: RPTC.

Theft — 12:44 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01460FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Trespassing — 2:05 PM, 816 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01461FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Other Agency Assist — 3:56 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0844BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Traffic Stop — 4:02 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0845BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 12:26 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0837BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Traffic Stop — 1:10 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0841BB. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:16 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0839BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 1:18 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0840BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 1:18 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0842BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 1:20 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0838BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 4:36 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: RPTG. Complaint No. 26-0846BB.

Traffic Stop — 4:49 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0847BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:01 PM, Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01462FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:01 PM, Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0848BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:37 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0849BB. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:05 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0850BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Seeking Advice/Info / Walk-In — 7:09 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0851BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Other Agency Assist — 7:18 PM, 401 Woodlandhills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01463FS. Disposition: HBO.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 5:01 AM, 106 Grant. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Alarm — 8:21 AM, 400 Marble Rd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS — 8:54 AM, 2403 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 11:05 AM, 2322 S Main St. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Grass — 4:24 PM, 524 Meadow Ln, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Grass — 5:41 PM, 407 130th, Fort Scott. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS / Blood Draw — 7:08 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 9:22 PM, 737 Heylman, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 11:06 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 4:17 AM, Sheps Curve, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:22 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:08 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:12 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:37 AM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:29 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:34 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:37 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:41 AM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:43 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:51 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:51 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 11:51 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:53 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:57 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:58 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:01 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:09 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:21 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:21 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:25 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:25 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:27 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:31 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:39 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:39 PM, 6th St, Uniontown. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:42 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:09 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:53 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 2:06 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:23 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:33 PM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:44 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:49 PM, Indian Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:55 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:56 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:56 PM, Fern Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 2:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:59 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 3:09 PM, 23rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:23 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:34 PM, 5th St, Uniontown. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:40 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:51 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:52 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:06 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:23 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:33 PM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:44 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:09 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:23 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:40 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:51 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:52 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:07 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:11 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:12 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:19 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:23 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:34 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:38 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:46 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:05 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:20 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:23 PM, 3rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:35 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Other Calls for Service

911 / Accidental — 12:05 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Follow-Up — 1:03 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

27,28,29 Checks — 5:28 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Check Welfare — 5:46 AM, 808 Shepherd St #12, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Child Playing With Phone — 6:28 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Harassment — 6:29 AM, 700 S Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Alarm / Burglary — 7:35 AM, 1009 S Clark. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Dead Animal Pickup/Debris — 7:51 AM, McCleverty St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Court — 8:19 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Court — 8:51 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 9:27 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 10:05 AM, 8th St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 10:39 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:56 AM, 1506 S Judson. Disposition: HBO.

Pursuit — 12:02 PM, Main St. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 12:17 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Motorist Assist — 2:27 PM, 946 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 12:20 PM, 2510 Kansas. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 3:42 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Animal Control — 3:36 PM, 601 N Barbee, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 4:03 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 6:14 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTG.

Alarm / Burglary — 6:17 PM, 101 Old Fort Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 6:17 PM, 1433 215th. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info — 6:39 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Trees Down / Not Storm Related — 6:43 PM, Limestone Rd. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info — 7:12 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 7:55 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 8:33 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Check Area — 9:19 PM, 902 E Wall, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 4:28 AM, 902 E Wall, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Total Calls for Service: 189

Documents:

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale This Weekend in Fort Scott

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale

Grab your friends and plan a bargain-hunting trip to Fort Scott…

The Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale is here!

Friday, September 11th & Saturday, September 12th

Sales located throughout Fort Scott and the surrounding area. Shoppers from Fort Scott, Bourbon County, and nearby communities are invited to spend the weekend finding great deals, hidden treasures, clothing, furniture, home décor, toys, tools, antiques, and much more!

Sale hours vary by location, so use the interactive Google map to plan your route before heading out!

Interactive Google Map: Click HERE!

Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale Map

Garage Sale Details

Garage Sale Information

Click HERE for event details & map access!

Click HERE for a printable .pdf map!

Invite your friends, make a day of it, and come shop Fort Scott!

Click HERE for the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook Event Page!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
620-223-3566
fortscott.com

Fort Scott, Submitted

VFW Post 1165 to Line Flags at National Cemetery Sept. 18

Leave a comment

September 18 — is POW/MIA Recognition Day. VFW Post 1165, led by Commander Jerry Shead, will be lining flags at the entrance to the National Cemetery and throughout the cemetery beginning at 7:00 a.m., with flag retirement at 4:00 p.m.

The Fort Scott Community College (FSCC) softball team and three coaches will assist, along with a group from the Kansas Renewal Institute.

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

4-State Insurance Agency Opens in Downtown Fort Scott

Leave a comment
4-State Insurance Agency opened the Fort Scott office on August 19, 2026.

A new insurance agency has opened a store front in historic downtown Fort Scott.

Leah Smith is the owner of the 4 State Insurance Agency, Lisa Schossow is the Senior Agent who oversees the Farm and Ranch Division; Dan Shireman is the Agency Development Director; and Josie King is the Farm and Ranch Service Advisor. All were born and raised in the Girard area.

Smith has an office in Overland Park, which opened about 15 years ago, and she opened an office in her hometown of Girard eight years ago.

The agency opened shop at the corner of Wall and Main Street on August 19.

Josie King, left, is a farm and ranch service agent, Lisa Schossow is the senior farm and ranch agent.

 

“We thought Fort Scott would be a perfect location between Overland Park and Girard. Leah has always wanted to open another office here it was just waiting for the right timing,” said Schossow. “We found the perfect office location in downtown Fort Scott and are excited to be a part of the happening downtown area. We can’t wait to be involved in community events and support all the area local businesses.”

The 4 State Insurance Agency currently has Sales Advisors, one Commercial Insurance Advisor, three Service Advisors, and a Claims Advisor on staff. “We are looking to hire four full-time people in this office,” Schossow said. “Right now, we are rotating staff from the Girard office.”

“We will be hiring insurance advisors as well as customer service representatives. They will need to hold an insurance license; if they aren’t currently licensed, we will provide resources to pass the tests needed and ongoing training to make sure each advisor is successful.”

The agency provides insurance in the following areas: home, auto, business, crop, livestock, and farm insurance.

“We have a brokerage arm, which gives our team the ability to not only quote through Farmers Insurance, but partner with a variety of insurance carriers to get our clients the best coverage for the right price,” Schossow said. “We also have a team of licensed crop insurance agents in our Farm & Ranch Division who can provide area farmers with Federal crop insurance, Livestock Risk Protection, and insure their farm operation.”

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and weekends by appointment.

For more information, contact 620.670.4590, visit us on Facebook

 

Fort Scott

Homeless Alliance holds its first meeting, names a nonprofit lead and a contact for the Second Street Park camp

3 Comments

FORT SCOTT — The Homeless Alliance, the citizens’ coalition on homelessness that City Commissioner Matthew Wells has been organizing since July, held its first meeting Wednesday evening at City Hall, and by the end of about 80 minutes had a plan on the table, a volunteer to lead a nonprofit, a point of contact for the people camping at Second Street Park, and a second meeting set for Sept. 23.

Wells presided. Commissioner Tracy Dancer sat beside him, and about a dozen people who had signed up with City Manager Brad Matkin took seats at the table: church representatives, social workers, nonprofit operators and residents who had been homeless. Two people now living at the Second Street Park encampment came with one of them, and one of the two spoke.

“I am of the firm belief that simple finances don’t fix a problem like this. Simple mental health doesn’t fix a problem like this,” Wells said. It has to be a combination of spiritual, mental and financial healing, he said, and the alliance needs the city, churches, nonprofits, schools and health care providers all in. “If we don’t have a buy-in from all three areas, then I personally don’t believe there will be any success moving forward” (video, 23:32).

A seven-step plan, “not the plan”

The packet Wells handed out was the plan he wrote after the city commission’s work session on homelessness, held May 5, drawn from what he said had worked in other Kansas and Missouri towns. “My plan is not the plan. It is not the only way to get this accomplished,” he said. “But I felt like we needed something as a guideline” (video, 28:26).

Its steps, in his order: form the coalition; adopt “clear and compassionate public space policies” modeled on Salina; establish a navigation hub with a case manager, modeled on Wichita; coordinate behavioral health and law enforcement with a co-responder model like Johnson County’s; consider a very small low-barrier shelter for winter; a work-for-housing program of the kind used in Kansas City and Tulsa; and transitional housing in existing buildings, as the Path of EASE Association already does in Fort Scott (video, 30:36). He said a county commissioner had contacted him that day about joining the alliance.

Wells said the city cannot apply for most of the grants in the plan, so the alliance needs a nonprofit to take the lead. Honey Bidwell offered to head it (video, 46:52). Jenni Simhiser, whose Path of EASE Association runs a recovery house for women and children, cautioned that some larger grants require a nonprofit to have existed for some time, so a new one needs a fiscal agent “that will umbrella you when you’re new” (video, 47:57). Wells said Compassionate Ministries had offered to help and the alliance may organize under it for now.

“Are they willing?”

The first question from the floor came from a woman in the audience who said she had helped one homeless person in town, “and it took great lengths to do that.” She asked whether the people the plan is meant for are willing to go through it, and what happens with those who are not (video, 50:12). Wells said he had not yet spoken with any of them personally. She also said Kansas Works once had case managers in Fort Scott helping people get Social Security cards, birth certificates, benefits and mental health care, and urged the alliance to avoid duplicating what already exists.

Lisa Robertson, a social worker, said those services were part of the COVID-era COPE program run through HBCAT, which ended when its grant did, and that she could bring what that program learned to the alliance. “You don’t just take someone off the streets and, oh, put them in housing and it’s going to work,” she said (video, 52:19).

Michael Barnard said any program has to be merit-based. “I was one of these people,” he said. “I went through 20 years of addiction and homelessness. Got in trouble a handful of times. Jails, prisons, rehabs. Lived in shelters, worked in shelters.” He spent five years in the Oxford House recovery program, he said, and warned that an emergency shelter “will triple instantly” in winter (video, 56:06). John Brown said his son went through Watered Gardens, a merit-based program in Joplin with steps from a night shelter to supervised living. “It took my son 18 months,” he said (video, 57:47).

What the camp says it needs

Bidwell, who said she grew up homeless and has been homeless in Fort Scott, told the group she had spent the last couple of days with the people camping at Second Street Park and had brought two of them to the meeting. Not everyone there wants housing, she said, and much of the discussion was coming from a point of view that is not that of the people it is about. “Food is not the issue,” she said. “They’re just people” (video, 59:12).

Wells asked Bidwell to be the alliance’s point of contact for the camp; she said she had had coffee with the campers that morning. Too many people are trying to help without a system, she said, and much of what is being dropped off is not what the camp needs: more fruit than anyone can eat in the heat, when what helps is ice (video, 62:41). Wells proposed one place where people who want to donate know to drop things off, with Bidwell and others taking what is needed down to the camp. Near the end of the meeting he said the alliance would set up a system so supplies get to Bidwell, stored at Compassionate Ministries or another location (video, 89:34).

A woman who said she is living at the encampment temporarily, until she can get out of town, asked for one thing: somewhere in Fort Scott to buy block ice or dry ice, which would let the camp keep food without daily deliveries of bagged ice. “There’s no place around that has that,” she said (video, 64:33).

“Not the city”

Peggy Stark, who said she works as a mental health social worker in Missouri, asked who would employ the case manager in the plan. “What we’re putting together today is not the city. This is a citizens’ alliance of hopefully like-minded people who want to help address this issue,” Wells said, adding that liability keeps the city from doing much of the work itself (video, 69:39). Stark asked whether police and first responders would get crisis-intervention training; Wells said that was step four of the plan and asked her to help with it.

Simhiser said she is opening the former Keyhole building as a mental health recovery resource center with peer support groups. Commissioner Julie Buchta said the town needs a thrift store, both for people in need and as a place to do community service.

Next steps

Wells listed his: contact the Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission; reach the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas outreach worker in Pittsburg who helps with IDs and birth certificates; set up the donation drop-off; form the nonprofit; look into law enforcement training and a possible case manager space at the Keyhole building; and explore a thrift store location (video, 89:01). Bidwell will set up a Facebook page, Homeless Alliance of Fort Scott. Barnard offered to organize food fundraisers and was asked to bring ideas to the next meeting.

The alliance will meet again Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 5:30 p.m. Wells said the group would check whether the middle school or another location is available and otherwise meet at City Hall again, with everyone who signed up to be notified (video, 95:26).

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 4, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 4, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 54 calls for service on September 4, 2026.

Reports and Arrests

Remove Subject — 2:18 AM, 121 Washington St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01432FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Pursuit — 6:10 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01433FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Theft — 12:38 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01434FS. Disposition: RPTC.

Parking Complaint — 1:22 PM, 1624 S National Ave. Complaint No. 26-01435FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Theft — 4:49 PM, 823 S Margrave St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01436FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Check Welfare — 5:28 PM, 612 S Margrave St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01437FS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 7:52 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01438FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Theft — 8:55 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01439FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Theft — 10:38 PM, 1802 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01440FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Juvenile — 11:23 PM, 2556 Limestone Rd, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0824BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 6:22 AM, 1124 S Clark, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Other — 10:56 AM, 26 N Main St. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS — 3:16 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 6:55 PM, 1105 S Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Standby — 7:42 PM, 815 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 11:25 PM, 802 Shepherd St #4, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Other Calls for Service

Traffic Complaint / Dead Animal Pickup/Debris — 2:16 AM, 215th, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

27,28,29 Checks — 4:15 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint — 7:54 AM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Hang Up — 8:42 AM, 1712 39 Hwy. Disposition: HBD.

Trees Down / Not Storm Related — 9:32 AM, 215th. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info — 9:34 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Dead Animal Pickup/Debris — 10:13 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 11:12 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Non-Injury — 11:49 AM, 1705 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: NTA.

Theft — 1:59 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info / Walk-In — 1:27 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Motorist Assist — 1:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Extra Patrol — 1:46 PM, 1 S Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 2:08 PM, 2301 Maple Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Burglary — 1:04 PM, 1519 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Check Area — 4:11 PM, Noble Rd. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint — 4:48 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint — 4:53 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Accident / Non-Injury — 5:38 PM, 2216 S Main St. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 5:41 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Accident / Injury — 5:41 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: 22.

Juvenile — 6:08 PM, 998 N National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

SRO — 6:21 PM, 815 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 6:31 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTG.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 7:07 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 8:17 PM, 3 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:05 PM, 206 S Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Lost Property — 9:07 PM, 815 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 9:07 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 5:28 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:04 PM, 2300 Blk, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:20 PM, 9th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:41 PM, 1400 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:06 PM, 12th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:54 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:14 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:56 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Total Calls for Service: 54

Documents:

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 5–6, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 5–6, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 116 calls for service on September 5–6, 2026.

September 5, 2026

27,28,29 Checks — 12:16 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

Noise Complaint — 12:41 AM, 195th, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 12:59 AM, Indian Rd. Complaint No. 26-01441FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 12:59 AM, Indian Rd. Complaint No. 26-0825BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Shots Fired — 2:52 AM, 1138 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Check Subject — 3:56 AM, 1598 Hwy 7. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 4:25 AM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 7:15 AM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0826BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 8:17 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:26 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Public Assist — 8:54 AM, 1420 S Clark, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 8:58 AM, 6th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:02 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

EMS — 9:09 AM, 1244 E Oak. Disposition: AMBU.

Traffic Stop — 9:12 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01442FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 9:33 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:03 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:17 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Follow-Up — 10:23 AM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:25 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:56 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:08 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Fire / Other — 11:21 AM, 11 S Barbee St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01443FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 12:31 PM, 900 E National Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

Harassment — 12:40 PM, 102 State St #1, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Fire / Alarm — 12:44 PM, 401 Woodlandhills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

EMS — 1:02 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01444FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Juvenile — 1:12 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / County — 1:15 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Civil Standby — 2:19 PM, 1509 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

EMS — 2:23 PM, 915 S Horton, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 2:26 PM, 509 Burke, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Follow-Up — 2:48 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 2:51 PM, 10 N Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 3:21 PM, 1014 S Holbrook St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Domestic / Physical — 3:24 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01445FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Animal Control — 4:30 PM, 618 Heylman, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

EMS / Transfer — 4:32 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Other — 4:41 PM, 1043 230th. Disposition: 22.

Other Agency Assist — 6:01 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Traffic Lights/RR Crossing — 6:35 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Stop — 7:11 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Animal Control — 7:27 PM, 623 S Barbee St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 7:50 PM, 424 Wilson St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

EMS / Transfer — 7:56 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Check Vehicle — 8:14 PM, Isador, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 8:16 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 8:16 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 8:28 PM, 215 S Barbee St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint — 8:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-01446FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Follow-Up — 8:51 PM, 754 S Clark. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 8:56 PM, 611 E 4th St. Disposition: HBO.

Suspicious Activity — 9:03 PM, 1291 240th St, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 77.

Shots Fired — 10:13 PM, Lincoln St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01447FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 11:08 PM, 6th St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:24 PM, 235th. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:40 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:54 PM, Barbee St. Complaint No. 26-01448FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 11:54 PM, Barbee St. Complaint No. 26-01449FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 11:56 PM, Little St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

September 6, 2026

Traffic Stop — 12:20 AM, 7th St. Disposition: WW.

Seeking Advice/Info — 12:50 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: 77.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 1:10 AM, 2050 Kansas, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0827BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 1:10 AM, 2050 Kansas, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0828BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 1:59 AM, 808 Shepherd St #2, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Follow-Up — 3:17 AM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

27,28,29 Checks — 7:00 AM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Stop — 7:49 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:02 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:24 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:00 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:19 AM, 135th, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

EMS — 9:39 AM, 1728 S Horton, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

Check Area — 9:48 AM, 2nd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Found Property — 9:52 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01450FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Seeking Advice/Info — 10:02 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 10:20 AM, 2nd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 10:36 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Public Assist — 10:44 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 10:47 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Child Playing With Phone — 11:09 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

Traffic Complaint / Other — 11:13 AM, Oak. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 11:53 AM, 2300 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 11:59 AM, 721 240th, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

EMS — 12:21 PM, 1524 Broadway, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Child Custody Dispute — 12:15 PM, 907 Emmert, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Injury — 1:07 PM, 2216 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01451FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 1:37 PM, 221 Hulett St. Disposition: * Multiple.

Motorist Assist — 1:43 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 2:47 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0829BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 3:01 PM, 1898 Limestone Rd. Disposition: AMBU.

Accident / Non-Injury — 3:17 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01452FS. Disposition: RPTA.

Seeking Advice/Info / Walk-In — 4:49 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: RPTS.

Seeking Advice/Info — 6:04 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint — 6:33 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Fire / Other — 6:40 PM, 2463 Lucky Rd. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS / Transfer — 6:42 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Seeking Advice/Info — 6:44 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 8:37 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

EMS — 8:45 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Complaint — 8:50 PM, 1140 Range Rd, Redfield. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 9:04 PM, 2216 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:08 PM, 2101 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:13 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:27 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:28 PM, Shep’s Curve. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:36 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0830BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 10:47 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:03 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:05 PM, 2000 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Driving While Intoxicated — 11:06 PM, 2537 Locust Rd. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 11:20 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:32 PM, Washington St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:43 PM, Broadway. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:56 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Total Calls for Service: 116

Documents:

Area News, Fort Scott, Fort Scott National Historic Site

Fort Scott NHS to Host Naturalization Ceremony Sept. 16

Leave a comment

A previous naturalization ceremony at Fort Scott National Historic Site. NPS Photo.

National Park Service / U.S. Department of the Interior
Fort Scott National Historic Site News Release

Fort Scott National Historic Site to Host Special Naturalization Ceremony on September 16

Fort Scott, Kan. – Media outlets and the general public are invited to Fort Scott National Historic Site on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, for a Special Naturalization Ceremony at the fort’s parade ground.

Check-in for ceremony participants begins at 9:30 a.m. and the ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m. The Honorable Holly L. Teeter, United States District Judge for the District of Kansas, is scheduled to preside.

Fort Scott National Historic Site Superintendent Jill Jaworski and Fort Scott Mayor Kathryn Salsbury will provide opening remarks. The Fort Scott High School Orchestra is scheduled to perform.

Seating will be provided for ceremony participants. Friends, family, guests, and the public are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets for seating. In case of rain or inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved to Fort Scott’s Memorial Hall (1 E 3rd St, Fort Scott, KS 66701).

Media attending the ceremony are requested to RSVP and be in place by 10 a.m. at Fort Scott National Historic Site, 1 Old Fort Blvd., Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701.

Fort Scott National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, is open Friday through Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Park grounds are open daily from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. For more information or to learn how to get involved, call 620-223-0310 or visit www.nps.gov/fosc.

Photo credit: NPS Photo

Fort Scott

Fort Scott City Commission Meeting Minutes – September 1, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott City Commission Meeting

9-1-2026 City Commission Minutes DRAFT

Fort Scott City Commission Meeting Minutes – September 1, 2026, 6:00 PM

  • I. Call to Order – The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube. Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, and Julie Buchta were present with Mayor Kathryn Salsbury.
  • II. Pledge of Allegiance – Led by Mayor Salsbury. Invocation by Commissioner Wells.
  • III. Approval of Agenda – Agenda was amended to include the Appearance of Stephen Mitchell for an IT update. Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
  • IV. Consent Agenda – Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • A. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1415-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 13, 2026 – August 25, 2026: $496,968.67
    • B. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of August 18, 2026
    • C. Request to Pay Earles Engineering & Inspection, LLC – Invoice #18780 – EEI Project No. 26-08 Topo Wall Street – Phase 3 – Survey Completed 100%: $20,000.00
    • D. Request to Pay Mid-Continental Restoration – Invoice #15415-01 – Wall Street Retaining Wall Repairs at approximately 1402 E. Wall St: $27,122.56
  • V. Public Comment
    • Betty Breault – Addressed the Commission regarding homelessness, rental rates affecting seniors and disabled individuals on fixed incomes.
  • VI. Appearances
    • Rachel Carpenter, Director of Human Resources & Community Development – Requested the Commission consider accepting the Transportation Alternatives Grant for a trail along Buck Run Creek and approving the required 20% local match. Fort Scott was one of 33 projects awarded statewide. Total participating cost: $1,813,560; grant award: $1,451,000; city match: $362,712. Project letting scheduled for February 2028; preliminary engineering may occur in 2027. Funding for the local match may come from the Federal Fund Exchange and the Special Parks and Recreation Fund.
    • Stephen Mitchell, IT – Provided an overview and update on a recent ransomware incident, its response, and future network security planning. The incident was identified and contained the previous Tuesday morning, limiting impacts to several non-critical machines at City Hall, the golf course, airport, and freshwater facility; public safety and SCADA systems remained unaffected due to network isolation. Approximately one week of data was lost on two machines; full operations were restored by Sunday. The suspected entry point was a phishing email; an antivirus software issue related to a Microsoft update was also identified and patched. In response, the City revamped its network to isolate individual sites, plans to increase OneDrive backup retention, and is evaluating a transition toward a zero-trust architecture, including potentially replacing local Active Directory with Microsoft Intune.
  • VII. Unfinished Business
    • Consideration to Approve Mill Levy and Publication of Public Hearing on September 15, 2026 – Ben Hart (Baker Tilly) presented budget options for the public hearing on September 15, 2026. Both options proposed a mill levy of 42.551 mills vs. a revenue-neutral rate of 41.472 mills (achieving revenue neutrality would require approximately $57,000 in reductions). Option A included the sale of eight lake lots to pay down $7.9 million in debt, placing county dispatch reimbursement into a capital improvements fund. Option B excluded lake lot sales and used the dispatch reimbursement for regular annual debt service. Motion by Wells to eliminate the $38,976 general fund demolition budget for one year, reducing the tax levy by approximately one-half mill. Wells, Dancer, and Salsbury voted yes; Van Hoecke and Buchta voted no. Motion Carried 3-2.
    • Consideration of Ordinance No. 3801 – An Ordinance to Amend Municipal Code 5.08 – Alcoholic Liquor; 5.12 Cereal Malt Beverages and 5.14 Cereal Malt Beverages – Beer Gardens – First reading of proposed amendments conducted. Motion by Wells to table until the second meeting in September to allow the Commission more time to review. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Status Update for 118 E. Wall – Discussion regarding acquisition. Owner requested either a cash settlement or a combination of cash and a tax credit. Commission declined to make a cash offer. The LLC that previously owned the building is no longer in existence; ownership has reverted to the individual owner. Motion by Wells to take the necessary legal and grant-related steps to obtain possession of the building to preserve the property. Motion Carried 5-0.
  • VIII. New Business – Action Items
    • Consideration of Resolution No. 33-2026 – Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 507 W. 18th Street – Leroy Kruger reported the owner had promised to begin demolition but has not followed through. Motion by Wells, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Consideration of Resolution No. 34-2026 – Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 611 W. 5th Street – Kruger reported the property has changed hands multiple times; current owners agree demolition is needed but lack funds; numerous complaints regarding junk and disrepair. Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Consideration of Resolution No. 35-2026 – Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 735 S. Little – Kruger reported the property has changed hands multiple times; current owners agree demolition is needed but lack funds; numerous complaints regarding junk and disrepair. Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Wells. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Consideration of Resolution No. 36-2026 – Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 416 S. Barbee – Kruger reported the structure is gutted and fire damaged; plywood covering the front door has been compromised; property backs up to a grade school. Motion by Wells. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Consideration of Resolution No. 37-2026 – Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 418 S. Barbee – Kruger reported the structure is gutted and fire damaged. Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Consideration of Resolution No. 38-2026 – Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 108 N. Judson – Kruger reported the property has been under owner-finance contract, previously red-tagged, with severe roof damage and exposed openings posing a risk to adjacent houses. A motion to table (Wells) died for lack of a second. Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Dancer; Salsbury, Buchta, Van Hoecke, and Dancer voted yes; Wells voted no. Motion Carried 4-1.
    • Consideration to Appoint Cindy Bartelsmeyer to Current Vacancy of the Fort Scott Land Bank – Motion by Dancer, seconded by Buchta. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Consideration to Accept Recommendation of Bid Award to Mid-Continental Restoration for Repairs to Memorial Hall – Bid totaled $538,000 (below the initial budget estimate of more than $700,000) for the Memorial Hall window and exterior restoration project; Mid-Continental Restoration was the sole bidder. The City’s required $184,000 match has already been funded. Award is subject to approval by the Kansas Department of Commerce. Motion by Buchta, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
    • Discussion of CLG (Certified Local Government) – Discussion led by Buchta regarding historic preservation regulations under Ordinances 3782 and 3798, enforcement requirements, penalties, and the role of the CLG in coordinating with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The Commission discussed retaining the CLG while revising local guidelines to emphasize education, assistance, and preservation incentives. Motion by Van Hoecke to schedule a Work Session on September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM (prior to the regular City Commission meeting) to revise the historic preservation ordinance. Motion Carried 5-0. The Fort Scott Historic Resource & Preservation Commission (FSHRPC) meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 22nd.
  • IX. Reports and Comments
    • City Engineer: Davis Lift Station update; Wall Street Phase 3 update
    • City Attorney: Moody Building update
    • City Manager: Wall Street milling; Cape Seal starting; Homeless Alliance meeting September 9 at 5:30 PM
    • Commissioner Wells: Railroad spur approved; KDOT Hwy Maintenance status; Downtown enforcement
    • Commissioner Dancer: None
    • Commissioner Buchta: Comments on CLG Ordinance discussion
    • Commissioner Van Hoecke: Summer Jam success; Commissioners meet with City Manager weekly; Budget discussion comments
    • Commissioner/Mayor Salsbury: 2nd Street
  • X. Executive Session – Motion by Van Hoecke to recess into Executive Session for the purpose of technology investment pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4) (financial affairs or trade secrets exception), with the five Commissioners, City Manager, and City Attorney present. Open meeting resumed at 9:37 PM. Motion by Van Hoecke to come out of Executive Session without action, seconded by Dancer. Motion Carried 5-0.
  • XI. Adjourn – Motion by Van Hoecke, seconded by Salsbury. Meeting adjourned at 9:33 PM.
Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott — Sept. 5–12

Leave a comment

What’s Happening in Fort Scott — September 4th Weekend Edition

Historic Trolley Tours

Ride Dolly the Trolley and explore Fort Scott’s history with a narrated tour.
Fridays & Saturdays – Now Boarding!

Historic 50-min narrated trolley tours every hour on the hour.
Friday: 11am–3pm (last tour 2pm) | Saturday: 10am–3pm (last tour 2pm)
Adults $6 | 12 & under $4 | Tours every Fri–Sat through 1st weekend of Dec.
Christmas Light Tours offered daily Dec. 10th–23rd.
620-223-3566 | fortscott.com | 231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS

Dolly the Trolley – Now Boarding

Mark Your Calendar: Midwest Runway Ribbon Cutting & Chamber Coffee

Thursday, September 10 | 8 a.m.
Midwest Runway, 6 N. Main St., Downtown Fort Scott

Midwest Runway Ribbon Cutting & Chamber Coffee – September 10th, 8am, 6 N. Main St.

Save the Date! Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees – Every Thursday at 8am

Upcoming Calendar of Events

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

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

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

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott
Every Tuesday 9am–4pm
Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.
620-231-4250

FS Public Library
Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30–3pm
201 S. National Ave.

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema! Follow their Facebook Page for updates!

Kansas Small Business Development Center at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.
Every 2nd Thursday of the month 9am–3pm

Want more details or updates on Community, Chamber, and Member events? You can find full dates, times, locations, and links on our community calendar on the Chamber’s website at: fortscott.com/events/calendar/

Recurring Events

Farmers Market

Saturday Markets (May–October): 8am–12pm
Tuesday Markets (June–August): 4–6pm

Upcoming Events: September 4th–12th

Saturday, September 5

Kansas Rocks Labor Day Weekend
Continues through September 7.
2051 130th St., Mapleton, KS
Labor Day weekend activities and camping.

121st Annual Uniontown Old Settlers Picnic
Continues through September 7.
Uniontown, KS (approximately 20 miles west of Fort Scott on Highway 54)

Old Settlers Rodeos — Sept. 5 & 6
⏰ Saturday @ 7pm – Invitational Ranch Rodeo
⏰ Sunday @ 5pm – Youth Rodeo & Mutton Bustin’
Uniontown, KS
General Admission $5, 4 & under free! No charge for contestants!

Labor Day Living History & Artillery Demonstrations
Fort Scott National Historic Site
Living history activities and demonstrations highlighting life at the frontier fort.

Fort Scott Farmers Market
⏰ 8 a.m. to noon
ὌD Gathering Square Pavilion, 111 N. National Ave.
Fresh produce, locally made goods and area vendors.

Pistol Steel Match by SEK Defense
⏰ 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Five stage steel match. Limited to 10 shooters.
$30 entry

Dolly the Trolley Historic Fort Scott Tour
Chamber & Visitor Center, 231 E. Wall St.
Adults $6, children 12 and under $4
620-223-3566

Master Artist Workshop at The Artificers: Painting with Words
⏰ 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Artificers
Artist, poet and sculptor Deneena Hughes leads an interactive poetry and creative writing workshop exploring memories, relationships, emotions, nature, change, loss, joy and everyday experiences. Participants will work with creative prompts, guided exercises, discussion, and free writing. No experience is necessary, and a notebook and pen/pencil are provided.
Click here to reserve a spot for the Painting with Words workshop

Sunday, September 6

Kansas Rocks Labor Day Weekend
2051 130th St., Mapleton, KS

121st Annual Uniontown Old Settlers Picnic

Labor Day Living History & Artillery Demonstrations
Fort Scott National Historic Site

Monday, September 7 — Labor Day

Dale Jackson Memorial Car Show
⏰ 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
West Bourbon Elementary, 602 Fifth St., Uniontown
Questions? Contact Sara Roufs: 620-228-0887 | dalejacksonmcs@outlook.com
Enjoy a car show, live music, food and craft vendors, kids’ activities, and more! Vehicle registration is $10 and begins at 9 a.m. Awards will be presented at 1 p.m. Admission is free for spectators.

Tuesday, September 8

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott
⏰ 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.
Workforce services available locally each Tuesday.
Pittsburg office: 620-231-4250

CLG, Fort Scott Historic Preservation Resource Commission Meeting
⏰ 4 to 5 p.m.

Fort Scott City Hall

Move for Mental Health at FSCC
⏰ 5 to 8 p.m.
North side of Ellis Fine Arts Center, Fort Scott Community College
Free. Includes:

  • Mental health awareness walk
  • Resource booths
  • Giveaways and games
  • Prayer and message from Pastor Christopher at 6 p.m.
  • Free event shirt for the first 50 participants who make a donation
  • Jonny O’s Nashville Hot Chicken & Burgers from 5 to 8 p.m.

FSCC students, staff and community members are invited.

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema
$3 movie admission

VFW Taco Tuesday
⏰ 6 p.m.
VFW Post 1165, 1745 S. National Ave.
3 tacos for $5, then $1.50 each

Bourbon County Garden Club Monthly Meeting
⏰ 6 to 8 p.m.
Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, 1 S. Main St.
Open to anyone interested in the Garden Club.

Wednesday, September 9

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy
⏰ 10 to 11 a.m.
Yeager Building, Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 2102 S. Huntington Blvd.
Strength training class through Southwind Extension District.
$10 donation | ὍE 620-244-3826

Wednesday Writers at Fort Scott Public Library
⏰ 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Fort Scott Public Library, 201 S. National Ave.

Bethel Baptist Church: Reformers Unanimous, Teen Bible Study & Kid’s Bible Club
⏰ 7 to 9 p.m.
Bethel Baptist Church, 1397 155th St.

Thursday, September 10

☕✂️ Chamber Coffee & Ribbon Cutting hosted by Midwest Runway
⏰ 8 to 9 a.m.
Midwest Runway, 6 N. Main St., Downtown Fort Scott

Midwest Runway is celebrating its new Downtown Fort Scott location and Fall 2026 collection, the Midwest Fall Edit. The collection is being released in three volumes on September 1, September 10 and September 22. The September 10 Coffee gives Fort Scott shoppers an exclusive first look at select arrivals before their online release.

  • ☕ Coffee, juice and light refreshments
  • Door prize drawing
  • ✂️ Ribbon Cutting
  • Fall fashion and new arrivals
  • Expanded sizing from XS to 3X

Shirt Shack’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
September 10 through 12
Celebrating 50 years, “The original since 1976!”
Live music | Food | Big sale | Anniversary fun
Shirt Shack Facebook Page

Kansas Small Business Development Center at the Chamber
⏰ 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall St.
Free small business assistance through the Kansas SBDC.

Friday, September 11

Shirt Shack’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
Day two of the September 10 through 12 celebration.

Fall Town Wide Garage Sale
September 11 and 12
Throughout Fort Scott
Registration deadline: Tuesday, September 8 at 1 p.m.
Register by phone/card or Venmo: 620-223-3566
Click HERE to register online!
In person: Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

KABA Golf Tournament in Memory of Jason Findley
⏰ 9 a.m. shotgun start | Calendar time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Following the Tournament: the Care to Share Golf Live Auction! ~4:30pm at Woodland Hills Golf Course!

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy
⏰ 10 to 11 a.m.
Yeager Building, Bourbon County Fairgrounds
$10 donation

Saturday, September 12

Shirt Shack’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
Final day of the September 10 through 12 celebration.

Fall Town Wide Garage Sale
Second and final day throughout Fort Scott.

Kansas Rocks Adopt A Trail Work Day
Kansas Rocks Recreation Park
Adopt A Trail groups will assist with trail maintenance. No specific start time is currently listed.

3rd Annual Fort Scott Fire Department 9/11 Stair Climb
Frary Field, Fort Scott High School Football Field
This event commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, honoring those who lost their lives, including the 343 FDNY firefighters.
Activities include:

  • Memorial Stair Climb
  • 5K Run/Walk
  • Food trucks
  • Live music
  • Family activities
  • All day 9/11 After Party at Holmtown Pub

First 100 registered participants are guaranteed a free event swag bag.
At Holmtown Pub, specials will be available all day:
$9.11 Burger Basket + Side
$3.43 domestic beers
You do not have to participate in the Stair Climb or 5K to take advantage of the Holmtown specials.
Register for the FSFD 9/11 Stair Climb or purchase shirts

Tri Valley Golf Tournament
⏰ 8 a.m. to noon
Woodland Hills Golf Course
To register: Tricia Campbell 620-431-7655 or tcampbell@tvds.org

Bourbon County Garden Club Fall Plant & Bulb Sale
⏰ 8 a.m. to noon
Gathering Square Pavilion, 111 N. National Ave.
Plants and bulbs for sale with proceeds supporting community beautification projects.

FSCC Women’s Sports Camps / Fort Scott Rec Department Soccer Camp
⏰ 8am–10am
FSCC Soccer Fields
Click HERE for more details about FSRD!

✅ See more events & details: https://fortscott.com/events

Shopping – Support Local!
Boutiques, Antiques, Flea Markets & more!
Click here for Chamber member specialty shopping & other retail in Downtown & other areas of the community.

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
620-223-3566
information@fortscott.com
fortscott.com

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 3, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 3, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 57 calls for service on September 3, 2026.

Reports and Arrests

Accident / Hit and Run — 8:46 AM, 2101 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01423FS. Disposition: RPTA.

Parking Complaint — 10:08 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01424FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Theft — 12:31 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01427FS. Disposition: RPTC.

Seeking Advice/Info — 12:31 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01425FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Burglary — 12:48 PM, 848 S National Ave. Complaint No. (none — see note). Disposition: HBO.

Harassment — 1:43 PM, 514 S Hill St. Complaint No. (none). Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 2:10 PM, 1st St. Complaint No. 26-01428FS. Disposition: RPTC.

Warrant Service / Arrest — 2:18 PM, 1038 105th, Redfield. Complaint No. 26-0819BB. Disposition: ARRC.

Seeking Advice/Info / Walk-In — 3:22 PM, 293 E 20th St. Complaint No. 26-0820BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Fraud — 4:46 PM, 293 E 20th St. Complaint No. 26-0821BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Follow-Up — 4:54 PM, 724 S Horton St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01429FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Follow-Up — 4:54 PM, 724 S Horton St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01430FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Domestic / Physical — 6:06 PM, 715 Burke, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01431FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 10:28 PM, National Ave. Complaint No. 26-0822BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire and EMS

Fire / Other — 2:34 AM, 302 Bay St, Bronson. Disposition: FIRE.

Fire / Other — 7:34 AM, 1838 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS — 8:34 AM, Wagon Rd. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 8:49 AM, 624 W 1st St. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Other — 9:52 AM, Lincoln St. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 1:21 PM, 502 Sherman, Uniontown. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 2:27 PM, 2322 S Main St. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 5:53 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Grass — 9:49 PM, 215th. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS / Transfer — 11:11 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Other Calls for Service

Alarm / Burglary — 4:54 AM, 684 Maple, Uniontown. Disposition: 22.

Vehicle Unlock — 7:30 AM, 2403 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Vehicle — 8:13 AM, 907 Emmert, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 8:43 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 10:11 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Vin Inspections / County — 10:20 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:09 AM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 9:31 AM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 12:23 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

27,28,29 Checks — 12:25 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Transport / Prisoner — 12:46 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint — 12:55 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 3:42 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Juvenile — 3:48 PM, 1013 E 14th St. Disposition: RPTS.

Seeking Advice/Info — 4:17 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Vin Inspections / County — 4:56 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 5:47 PM, 1606 E Oak. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 8:36 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Alarm / Burglary — 9:14 PM, 2146 Jayhawk, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Check Vehicle — 10:26 PM, 1510 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Foot Patrol — 7:59 PM, 101 Old Fort Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 10:42 AM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:42 AM, 240th. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:07 AM, E National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Check Vehicle — 11:15 AM, S National Ave. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 5:06 PM, 2216 S Main St. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 7:16 PM, Sheps. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 7:26 PM, Maple. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 7:42 PM, 195th. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 8:54 PM, 523 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 9:26 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 10:21 PM, National Ave. Disposition: HBO.

Total Calls for Service: 57

Documents:

Fort Scott

Fort Scott recovered from a ransomware attack in six days; commission cuts demolition funding 3-2 and will rewrite historic-district penalties

1 Comment

The City of Fort Scott was hit by a ransomware attack in late August and had its systems back within six days, IT Director Stephen Mitchell told the city commission Sept. 1. In the same four-hour meeting, commissioners voted 3-2 to strip the 2027 demolition budget to lower the mill levy and agreed to rewrite a historic-preservation ordinance that carries heavy penalties for downtown property owners.

Mayor Kathryn Salsbury presided, with commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Julie Buchta and Tim Van Hoecke present. City Clerk Lisa Lewis called the roll. The commission approved the agenda as amended — adding the IT update and folding the mill-levy choice into unfinished business — and approved the consent agenda. On the latter, Matkin flagged the Mid-Continental Restoration contract for Wall Street retaining-wall repairs, telling commissioners the city will get the money back from FEMA; asked by Salsbury whether that covered the entire amount, he indicated it did (video, 30:09).

“Wasn’t something we wanted to do in six days”

Mitchell handed commissioners a written synopsis and timeline before walking them through the attack, which he said was detected about 7:45 a.m. on Tuesday (video, 39:15). He said he isolated the affected machine, shut down City Hall and the core network, and verified public-safety systems were functional before restoring anything else.

Part of what made it worse, Mitchell said, was a coincidental Microsoft bug that crashed the city’s antivirus and let it restart, leaving some machines partially infected. Microsoft acknowledged the flaw and released a patch the same day; once applied, the antivirus came back and began functioning (video, 40:38). He described the malware as “a pretty sophisticated little crypto virus.”

The city was running again within six days, after the IT team worked in 12- and 18-hour shifts, losing about a week of data on two machines that were backed up to OneDrive (video, 42:45). Mitchell said he used the outage to rebuild what had been a flat legacy network into segments isolated site-by-site, and recommended the city move toward a zero-trust, cloud-first architecture.

“Cities and school districts right now, local governments, are all being heavily targeted for ransomware,” Mitchell said (video, 43:43). Commissioners contrasted the six-day turnaround with the multi-week recoveries common at other municipalities, and credited having the work done locally.

Commission cuts demolition money in 3-2 vote to trim the levy

Budget consultant Ben Hart of Baker Tilly, which handles the city’s finance function, asked commissioners to approve one of two versions of the 2027 budget for publication, against a hard deadline: the notice had to be in the newspaper’s hands Thursday to publish Saturday ahead of a budget hearing on the 15th (video, 46:54). Option A assumed selling eight lake lots and using the proceeds to pay down $7.9 million in debt inside the general fund. Option B dropped the lot sales and instead deposited the county’s dispatch reimbursement into the general fund to cover the 2027 debt service, routing the lake-lot question to a capital improvements fund for the commission to allocate later.

Hart told commissioners the revenue-neutral rate is 41.472 mills and the proposed rate is 42.551 — virtually identical to the current year’s levy (video, 49:53). Tracy Dancer pressed on why neither budget option before the commission held the line at revenue neutral (video, 49:38), saying the commission had authorized exceeding the revenue-neutral rate earlier in the year only to preserve flexibility, and that no revenue-neutral plan was ever brought back.

“That’s the kind of conversation we had three work sessions ago, and the very questions we were asking, Commissioner, is where do you want to go with this budget? And that’s exactly where we needed to hear that. At this point, we’ve got two days to get this into publication,” responded Hart. He went on to say that the budget hearing is not the equivalent of adopting a budget and he is open to having a fourth workshop to discuss a revenue neutral budget – “Just understand that this going to involve people, not things,” he said.

Wells moved to eliminate the 2027 demolition budget — $38,977 — for one year, lowering the levy by roughly half a mill. Dancer seconded, saying it was “the only thing that reduces this across the board” (video, 1:00:24). It passed 3-2, with Wells, Dancer and Salsbury in favor and Van Hoecke and Buchta opposed.

Hart confirmed the effect: there will be zero money for demolition in the general fund in 2027, and the levy drops by the equivalent amount, for one year (video, 1:01:18). Van Hoecke had argued against the cut on the grounds that lowering the levy guarantees nothing. At the last work session, he said, property taxes owed stood at $2.5 million, and the county has spent $30,000 simply to publish the delinquency list the requisite three printings, with the same names appearing repeatedly (video, 55:55). “We can lower it, but is that a guarantee?” he asked, warning that a cut this year could force a significant increase next year. He acknowledged some property owners genuinely cannot pay their taxes.

Van Hoecke also asked what happens if the city faces an unsafe property with no demolition money. Commissioners said they would have to reconvene and find the funds.

Moments later City Manager Brad Matkin noted the sum was not a pure demolition line: “That’s his wages right there,” he said, referring to the city’s newly added codes officer (video, 1:02:24). Salsbury replied that she had understood it to be the demolition budget and “was not told that was the codes officer’s budget.” In the commissioner comments portion of the meeting, Wells said that he had understood that line item to be for demolition only, not a salaried position for the codes office.

“We’ll make it work,” responded Matkin.

Historic-district ordinance headed back to a work session

The longest stretch of the meeting was a dispute over ordinance 3782 and the city’s Certified Local Government status. Buchta delivered an extended presentation arguing that the ordinance’s enforcement clause — a Class B misdemeanor carrying up to a $1,000 fine, up to six months in jail, and a separate offense for each period of violation — was being read as authority for full enforcement across the downtown historic district (video, 1:20:49).

Several downtown owners objected to the prospect of fines or jail over building maintenance. Lindsay Madison, president and CEO of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce and director of its Main Street program, and Kathy Dancer, who leads the city’s historic preservation commission, defended the CLG program’s benefits — faster local approvals, access to tax credits and grant eligibility — while agreeing the enforcement language should be revised and that owners need better education.

Kathy Dancer also told the room she had not been told the discussion was happening: “I am the lead of the Historic Preservation Commission and Resource Commission here in town. I was not notified that this conversation was happening” (video, 2:22:24).

“Enforcement is the city’s job. If codes wants to enforce, let them enforce. If they don’t want to enforce, then that’s on them. But be aware that if you choose not to enforce when the state SHPO [State Historic Preservation Office] comes and does their audit of the CLG, we won’t qualify for CLG status, which is fine if that’s the decision this commission makes. However, keep in mind that absolutely 100% jeopardizes your ability to get grants and tax credits,” said Kathy Dancer of the benefits of becoming a CLG and the need to enforce codes in order to do that. “Historic tax credits are the most valuable of tax credits out there.”

Commissioners established that the ordinance posted online is not the version actually adopted, and that codes officer Leroy Kruger cannot enforce design guidelines that have not been adopted. Wells said only two properties he knew of would be affected, on the grounds that the rules would reach only work done since the CLG was established; Buchta immediately disputed that, saying it was not her understanding and that no list of who had been grandfathered in was ever provided. Kruger said he felt unfairly blamed. Van Hoecke moved that the commission hold a work session at 5 p.m. before its next meeting to rewrite the ordinance, with the penalty aimed at demolition by neglect — the fate of the Moody Building and the lost Eagle Block (video, 2:55:29). The motion passed.

$1.45 million trail grant accepted

Rachel Carpenter, director of human resources and community development, reported the city had won a Transportation Alternatives Grant for a Buck Run Creek trail: $1,451,000 awarded toward a roughly $1.8 million project, requiring a $362,712 local match (video, 34:13). Matkin said the match could be met through the city’s annual federal fund exchange, worth roughly $94,000 to $98,000 a year, plus a special parks and recreation fund. Buchta moved to accept the grant and the 20% match, and it passed (video, 38:13).

Other business

In public comment, Betty Brough urged the commission to act on homelessness, asking for outhouses, showers, laundry, safe fire pits, shelter and affordable senior housing near the Second Street camp (video, 30:41). Matkin later announced a Homeless Alliance meeting set for Sept. 9 at 5:30 p.m.

On 118 E. Wall, Matkin said the owner still wants a cash settlement the city is not offering, and recommended pursuing grants now rather than waiting — warning of “an Eagle Block issue coming up” (video, 1:04:44). The commission voted to do what is legally and financially possible to take possession of the building, without a cash offer. City Attorney Bob Farmer separately reported the owner of the Moody Building intends to quitclaim it to the city (video, 3:13:04).

The commission passed six resolutions setting hearings on allegedly unsafe structures at 507 W. 18th St., 611 W. Fifth St., 735 S. Little, 416 S. Barbee, 418 S. Barbee and 108 N. Judson. A motion to table the Judson resolution to reach the actual owner failed before the resolution itself passed.

Cindy Bartelsmeyer was appointed to a vacancy on the Fort Scott Land Bank (video, 1:17:16). City Engineer Jason Dickman reported a single bid for window and exterior restoration at Memorial Hall, from Mid-Continental Restoration, at about $530,000 against a budget near $700,000; the commission accepted it, subject to Department of Commerce approval (video, 1:18:48).

Ordinance 3801, amending the city’s alcohol and cereal malt beverage code, was tabled to the second September meeting after commissioners said they received the extensive draft only the day before (video, 1:04:25). Van Hoecke also relayed that Bourbon County had entered a two-week burn ban (video, 3:48:10).

Salsbury closed with pointed remarks tying local homelessness to defunded mental health care and Medicaid decisions rather than a lack of city effort. Several commissioners commended Matkin for the decision to move the homeless to Second Street as a sensible solution.

The commission then recessed into executive session on a technology investment, citing the financial affairs and trade secrets exception at K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4) (video, 3:49:19), returned with no action and adjourned.