20 North Main Street, Fort Scott, KS. One can see the reflection of the Fort Scott National Historic Site in the storefront glass reflection on the ground level. The upper level is a vacation rental in a historic downtown district apartment.
Another Historic Downtown Fort Scott building has been renovated, adding to the revitalization that has been moving forward in the area.
Don and Sandra Davis purchased the building at 20 North Main Street in 2021 and began renovation.
“Located in the heart of Fort Scott’s downtown district, the building is within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and community attractions. The goal of the renovation was to preserve the building’s history while creating functional space that contributes to ongoing downtown revitalization,” said Julia Shore, office manager of Davis Accounting, another business the Davis’s own and she also is the Airbnb host.
Sandra and Donald Davis in front of their business at 1519 S. National Ave. in 2024.
“The building was long known in downtown Fort Scott as the home of J & W Sport Shop, a family-owned sporting goods retailer that first opened at this location in 1978, after beginning business elsewhere in the community,” said Shore. “The shop served generations of local customers before relocating, making the historic storefront a familiar presence in the heart of Main Street’s commercial district.”
There are two businesses in the newly renovated building.
“The fully renovated ground-floor storefront is available for leasing in 2026,” she said. “The first floor is reserved for commercial use, providing space for a retail or business operation.”
“The upper level has also undergone a complete transformation and now features a three-bedroom, two-bath apartment designed for short-term rental use through Airbnb,” she said. “The upstairs Airbnb is fully operational and is now accepting reservations.”
The upstairs is available for booking through Airbnb.
At this morning’s final Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce hosted by the City of Fort Scott, City Manager Brad Matkin gave the following speech to the attendees.
Included in this update is additonal information that Mr. Matkin sent today, with more specifics:
This year was about stability, progress, and laying a solid foundation for the future of Fort Scott. Through careful planning and disciplined financial management, the City maintained a balanced budget, protected our reserves, and continued to make strategic investments in our community. At a time when many cities are facing financial strain, Fort Scott remained fiscally responsible while continuing to deliver essential services.
One of our most important accomplishments this year was continued investment in infrastructure. We made meaningful progress on street improvements and utility maintenance, focusing on projects that improve safety, reliability, and long-term efficiency. These are not always the most visible projects, but they are critical to protecting our assets and supporting future growth.
Public safety remained a top priority. Our police, 911 Dispatch, and fire departments continued to serve with professionalism and dedication, maintaining strong response times and community engagement. Training, equipment upgrades, and inter-agency coordination helped ensure our first responders remain prepared to serve and protect the community.
Tourism continued to be an important driver of activity in Fort Scott this year. Visitors drawn to our historic assets, community events, and local attractions supported our businesses, restaurants, and lodging establishments. From heritage tourism centered around Fort Scott National Historic Site to festivals, holiday events, athletic events, museums, and regional gatherings; tourism helped generate economic activity while showcasing what makes Fort Scott unique.
These tourism efforts not only benefit our local economy but also reinforce community pride and increases Fort Scott’s regional presence.
Economic development in Fort Scott this year focused on strengthening what we already have while positioning the community for future opportunity. We continued working with local businesses, property owners, and regional partners to support reinvestment, job retention, and responsible growth. Economic development in Fort Scott is about progress with purpose—building on our strengths while preparing for the opportunities ahead.
None of these accomplishments would be possible without our city employees. I want to recognize the dedication of our staff across all departments, many of whom take on multiple roles and responsibilities to ensure services are delivered efficiently and professionally. Their commitment to Fort Scott is evident every day.
As we look ahead, our focus will remain on sound financial stewardship, continued infrastructure investment, public safety, tourism and Business Development. While challenges remain, Fort Scott is well-positioned to move forward with confidence.
I would also like to thank Fort Scott’s business leaders and local employers. Your commitment to investing here, employing our residents, rehabbing buildings that seemed lost, and supporting community events is essential to our city’s success. You are key partners in Fort Scott’s progress, and we appreciate the role you play in keeping our community strong and resilient.
I’ve heard comments that Fort Scott is “dying.” I don’t see a city in decline—I see a city that is evolving, investing, and positioning itself for the future. Communities that are truly dying are not improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, welcoming visitors, or planning ahead. Fort Scott is doing all of those things.
As we look ahead to 2026, Fort Scott’s goals focus on responsible growth, strong core services, and community well-being. We will continue investing in infrastructure, including streets, utilities, and public facilities, while maintaining a balanced budget and strong financial stewardship. Supporting economic development and local businesses remains a priority, alongside efforts to promote tourism and highlight Fort Scott’s historic and cultural assets. Public safety, workforce development, and community engagement will remain central to our work, ensuring residents continue to enjoy a safe, vibrant, and thriving city. These goals are designed to strengthen our foundation and position Fort Scott for continued progress and opportunity.
It is an honor to be City Manager of the place I call “HOME” and will continue to work hard to make this a much better place for all of us.
“As we enter the Christmas season, may we be reminded that the true strength of Fort Scott lies in the spirit of service, generosity, and community we share.”
Thank you, and I look forward to continuing our work together in the year ahead.
The Fort Scott Dragoons are excited to announce their leadership team for their inaugural 2026 season at LaRoche Baseball Complex. The 2026 slate will feature a 32-game home schedule with the Dragoons opening the season with the rival Joplin Outlaws May 21-24. They then open their home schedule on Memorial Day May 25th at LaRoche Baseball Complex.
“I couldn’t be more excited about this new leadership team in Fort Scott.” said Nick Weisenborn, Commissioner of the Mid America League. With Bill’s Independent Baseball experience, Coach Albin’s coaching experience in the region, and Justin’s business development experience, I believe we have assembled a great team for the first season of Dragoons baseball!”
Bill Larsen, Owner of the Fort Scott Dragoons
Bill Larsen of Larsen Sports Group will be taking over as Owner of The Fort Scott Dragoons. Bill has had ownership of multiple clubs, most recently the Kane County Cougars of the American Association. Bill is excited to relocate to the SEK area and enjoy many summer nights at LaRoche Baseball Complex
Mike Albin, Manager of the Fort Scott Dragoons
Coach Albin comes to the Dragoons with a wealth of experience in collegiate summer wood-bat baseball. He was the Head Coach of the Nevada Griffons in the Summer of 2022, as well as the Midwest Moo in 2024. He also was a pitching coach for the Hoptown Hoppers in 2023. Coach Albin is currently the pitching coach at the University of Saint Mary’s in Leavenworth, Kanas. The Southeast Kansas Native is excited to bring an exciting level of baseball to Laroche Baseball Complex this summer.
Justin Miles, Sales Coordinator of The Fort Scott Dragoons
Justin Miles, born and raised in Fort Scott, has been involved in several impactful teams and community projects throughout the region. He is completing his final semester at Pittsburg State University, earning a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, where he also founded the Pitt State Entrepreneurs Society. With a strong entrepreneurial drive, Justin has led multiple initiatives across business and athletics. On the side, he currently serves as the Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Football Coach for wide receivers and defensive backs at Uniontown High School. Justin is excited to step into office with the Dragoons and get to work!
About the Mid-America League: Founded in 2024, the Mid-America League is a collegiate summer baseball league committed to delivering high-quality, community-focused baseball. Featuring top-tier college talent from across the country, the league offers players the opportunity to compete in a professional-style environment while staying connected to the communities they represent.
FORT SCOTT — Repairs on the U.S. 69 bridge over Wall Street in Fort Scott have been completed, and the north and southbound lanes are now fully open, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.
Repairs on the Wall Street bridge began the week of June 9.
The project included patching and resurfacing the bridge deck. PCI Roads LLC, of St. Michael, Minnesota, had the $1.5 million construction contract.
The Bourbon County Fair Association is having a Christmas Fair tomorrow December 13th from 10 am to 3 pm at the Bourbon County Fairgrounds, across from Fort Scott Community College on South Horton.
Fifth Annual Jingle Bell Mart featuring local vendors:
Kos Kreations
Tracy Smith – handmade jewelry
Carell Collective
Locust Hill Lamanchas Goat Milk Products
Sally Kraft – hand-sewn items
Flying P Ranch
WriteOn!
Happy Little Candle Factory
Donna Jo Beerbower – homemade fudge
Kitty’s Kreations
Gran’s Denim Recyclables
Mmm Flavor Shop
Blessed B Creations
Uppa Creek Ranch – local, raw, honey
Christmas Display Competition – Come vote for your favorite Christmas Display. Votes are $1 each, with a portion of the sales going to the winners and the Cloverleaf Event Center.
A Hot Beverage Bar will also be available for a Free Will Donation with all donations going to the Cloverleaf Event Center.
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
December 16, 2025 – 6:00 P.M.
Call to Order/Roll Call
Pledge of Allegiance
III. Invocation
Approval of Agenda
Consent Agenda
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1398-A – Expense Approval Report –
Payment Dates of November 26, 2025 – December 9, 2025 – $366,627.57
Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of December 2, 2025
November Financials
Public Comment
VII. Appearances
Rachel Carpenter/Community Relations Director – ‘Kansas Experience’ Bus Tours
Lindsay Madison/ Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce – Resolution for the City of Fort Scott
Endorsing Participation in the Kansas Main Street Program
Patty Ann Sanborn– SEK Services, Inc. – Overview of available services
VIII. Unfinished Business
Consideration of Ordinance No. 3789 – An Ordinance Setting New Water Rates and
Repealing Ordinance No. 3777 for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas,
Pursuant to the Fort Scott Municipal Code, Chapter 13.04.030
Consideration of Ordinance No. 3790 – An Ordinance Amending the Fort Scott
Stormwater User Charge and Repealing Ordinance No. 3776 for the City of Fort
Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas, Pursuant to the Fort Scott Municipal Code, Chapter
13.24.121
Continued Discussion of Ordinance for Limit on Number of Dogs
New Business
Public Hearing:
Budget Hearing for Amending the 2025 Budget – B. Hart
Action Items:
Consideration of Ordinance No. 3792 – Dialysis Center Project – An Ordinance Authorizing the City of Fort Scott, Kansas to Issue Its Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds, Series 2025 (MOKA RENTALS LLC PROJECT) for the Purpose of the Acquiring, Renovating, Furnishing, and Equipping of a Commercial Facility; and Authorizing Other Related Documents and Actions – M. Wyatt
Consideration of Small Business Incentive Grant recipients for Q4 2025 – M. Wyatt
Consideration of Davis Lift Station Inspection – J. Dickman
This Sunday, OhhSnap Photography has teamed up once again with Be The Light Boutique along with Clark Street Lights to bring you a magical opportunity:
Meet & Photos with Santa
in a setting filled with holiday charm! 🎅📸
Guests can look forward to a cozy, festive
atmosphere. Think seasonal décor, warm boutique charm, and all the cheerful vibes of the holidays.
Sunday, December 14th
12-4pm
(with scheduled 15 min session slots for meeting Santa — possibly accompanied by one of his elves!)
📍 Be The Light Boutique
12 N. Main St., Downtown Fort Scott
Sign up and you’ll automatically be entered into a drawing for a special gift. 🎁
$45/ session
$20 non-refundable deposit due at sign-up.
Deposits do not transfer to future sessions.
Payment may be made via:
Venmo (@Leslie-Godden)
CashApp ($LeslieGodden)
Cash/Check.
Spots are limited, so early sign-up is encouraged.
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee this Thursday, December 11th, at 8am hosted by Kansas Renewal Institute (KRI), 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize drawing.
Chamber Champion Member, KRI, which opened in April 2024 in the former Mercy Hospital building, is a behavioral-health treatment center specializing in psychiatric residential care for youth ages 6–21. KRI provides a comprehensive range of mental-health services, including cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, family therapy, and creative therapies such as art and music, all centered on helping individuals renew their lives and build long-term well-being. As a growing provider in the region, KRI has brought new jobs, expanded mental-health resources, and strengthened community support in Fort Scott.
For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566. Visit the Events Calendar on fortscott.com and click on the “Chamber Coffees” category for upcoming hosts and locations.
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, December 08, 2025, for their regular monthly meeting at 424 S Main.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
David Stewart thanked the Board Members that are finishing their term for their time and effort in collaborating with the school district.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
11-10-25
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – November 20, 2025 – $1,830,914.79
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
December 2025 KASB Policy Updates
FSHS Baseball Fundraising
Superintendent Destry Brown informed the Board on current enrollment in the district. An update for Tiger Academy was given with a start date of January 6, 2026. The district is also working on a Farm to School grant that will include local products that can be included into the school’s lunch program. Mr. Brown also informed Board Members and new members they will be meeting soon.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided a shared document. He was able to share a report that included the City/School IT ticket numbers. The Preschool building has been given a tentative timeline.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on winter iReady testing scores on Math & ELA. Results for testing will be shared with parents soon. He thanked the staff and students involved in the Christmas Parade this past week.
Special Education Director Tonya Barnes provided a shared document.
Superintendent Brown thanked the District’s Counselors for their Kansas Star Recognition Award. Jane Krone and Josh Messer were present. This was a district wide award for Social Emotional Learning. Jane Krone was responsible for submitting the paperwork for the grant. She explained how much the students benefit from the curriculum. This is an extremely exciting recognition for the district.
The Board approved the following:
CTE Equipment for Patterson Grant
Welding Booth Bid Proposals – $73,458
Welder Proposals – $8,970
CNC Plasma Table Bid Proposals – $45,767.52
Mini Mill Bid Proposals – $84,030.95
Desktop Lathe Bid Proposals – $14,850
Architect Services Agreement – Hight Jackson Associates
Pre-School Playground Project Bid Proposals
Heavy Duty Work Truck Bids
Contingency Approval
Community Green Farms MOU
Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Plan Agreement (2026-2030)
There were none present for public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
December 08, 2025
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
Bradbury, Luke – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
DeLaTorre, Jeff – Retirement – Athletic/Activities Director – High School
Gilmore, Nicole – Resignation – Assistant Principal – Winfield Scott
Regan, Nikki – Resignation – SPED Teacher – High School
Rienbolt, Katren – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
LEAVE OF ABSENCE:
Cox, Johnna – January 05-February 13
TRANSFER:
Avery, Michael – Grounds/Maintenance II to Maintenance I
Budd, Wendy – Paraprofessional Winfield Scott to Paraprofessional Alternative School
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations for 2026-27 School year:
Johnson, Zach – Superintendent
Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:
Kitsmiller, Natalie – Paraprofessional – Alternative School
Lee, David – Custodian – Winfield Scott
Miller, Kaylie – Paraprofessional – Alternative School
Pinkerton, Samantha – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Tate, Madalynn – Paraprofessional – Preschool
Weber, Betty – Paraprofessional – KRI
Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Corbitt, Cheyenne – 3rd Session of Intramurals
Fountain, Justin – Scholars Bowl Sponsor – Middle School
Nickelson, Aaron – Assistant Boys Basketball – Middle School
The Fort Scott High School Thespians present A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Kathryn Schultz Miller.
Performances are Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 13 at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Fort Scott High School Auditorium, 1005 S. Main, Fort Scott. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime.
The production involves 45 children in 1st through 8th grades. The role of Ebenezer Scrooge is portrayed by 8th grader Xavier Jeffrey. Other featured roles include Charles Dickens played by 7th grader Dylan Williams, Spirit of Christmas Past played by 7th grader Elsie Fields, and Spirit of Christmas Present portrayed by 8th grade student Claire Bower.
A Christmas Carol is produced by FSHS Theatre Director Angie Bin with direction and design by the FSHS Thespians. Senior Levi Fairchild serves as Director, Assistant Director is senior Chris Newman, and Music Director is senior Junie Fisher.
All tickets are reserved seating and are $5. Tickets can be purchased at fortscotthighschool.ludus.com or at the door, but seating is limited.
Nonprofits throughout eastern Kansas that serve community members in need will soon receive a total of more than $50,000 in contributions from Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative members through Heartland’s Operation Round Up program.
“It’s always impressive to see what a difference our members can make by contributing just a little bit of change every month,” said Mark Scheibe, Heartland CEO. “We continue to be proud of our board and our members for helping the neediest in their communities through this program.”
Through Operation Round Up, participating Heartland members’ electric bills are rounded up to the next dollar each month. The additional amount is collected and pooled into a fund for distribution to charitable organizations that provide food, clothing, shelter, medical care, education, and other direct services for those in need.
Funds collected through the Operation Round Up program are administered by a panel of volunteer trustees selected by the Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative Board of Directors from throughout Heartland’s 12-county service area.
Applications were accepted in October and November and were reviewed by the Operation Round Up Board of Trustees at its annual meeting on December 1.
Grant recipients for 2026 are listed below in alphabetical order. Each will receive between $800 and $2,400 in January, with a total of $50,400 distributed.
Alliance of Churches for Christian Living – Chanute
Beacon Food Pantry – Fort Scott
Care to Share Cancer Support Group – Fort Scott
Church of Christ Fontana – Heavenly Hotdogs Food Pantry – Fontana
Columbus Christian Center – Manna Depot – Columbus
Community Food Pantry – Girard
Concern, Inc. – Mound City
Elsmore United Methodist Church – Elsmore
Erie Area Community Christmas Basket Fund – Erie
Erie Federated Church – Erie
First Assembly of God Baxter Springs – Hope Chest – Baxter Springs
First Baptist Church – Cherokee
First Baptist Church of Pleasanton – Pleasanton
First Baptist Church of Riverton – Riverton
First Christian Church – God’s Pantry – Chanute
First Presbyterian Church of Iola – Iola
First United Methodist Church – Columbus
Friends of Library District #2 of Linn Co – La Cygne
Galesburg Christian Church – Orange Swan Free Store – Galesburg
Hope Chapel – Moran
Humanity House – Iola
Humboldt Ministerial Alliance – Humboldt Community Food Pantry – Humboldt
Mound City Christian Church – Christian Women’s Service – Mound City
Mound City United Methodist Church – Mound City
Parker United Methodist Church – Helping Hands & Hearts – Parker
Pitt Chapel Church of God – Pittsburg
Prescott United Methodist Church – Reach Out Food Pantry – Prescott
Sacred Heart Catholic Church – Mound City
Second Chances – Blue Mound
Michael Catholic Church – A Meal In His Name – Girard
United Methodist Church – La Cygne Food Pantry – La Cygne
United Women in Faith – Pleasanton
Wings of Warriors – Gas
Yates Center United Methodist Church – Bowls of Plenty – Yates Center
Current Operation Round Up trustees include Tom Bradbury of Uniontown, Rev. Daniel Davis of Iola, Carol Houston of Prescott, Nancy Hurd of Columbus, Kelly Perry of Bronson, Sue Stainbrook of Fontana, Mark Taylor of Girard, and Sharon Young of Erie.
The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas manages Operation Round Up contributions and disburses funds on behalf of Heartland.
About Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. powers rural lifestyles throughout more than 11,000 locations in eastern Kansas. Heartland’s service area includes members in 12 counties, including Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Labette, Linn, Miami, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson counties.
Heartland REC is a non-profit, member-owned cooperative that traces its roots back to three original rural electric cooperatives: Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company in Iola, Sugar Valley Electric Cooperative Association in Mound City, and Sekan Electric Cooperative Association in Girard. Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company joined with Sugar Valley in 1975 to form United Electric Cooperative; United Electric Cooperative joined with Sekan Electric Cooperative Association in 1996 to form Heartland
The Bourbon County Fair Association is having a Christmas Fair tomorrow December 13th from 10 am to 3 pm at the Bourbon County Fairgrounds, across from Fort Scott Community College on South Horton.
