Category Archives: Fort Scott

Fort Scott, Government

Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission for November 12

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

Minutes of November 21, 2023                                       Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held November 21, 2023 at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

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

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INVOCATION:  E. Woellhof led the Pledge of Allegiance and said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, Jason Pickert/Chief of Police, Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director, Tammy Matkin, Shane Lamb, Kevin Allen.

 

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:

  1. Wells stated there are (2) amendment requests for the submitted agenda. 1. ADDITION TO CONSENT AGENDA – requested by Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering and Inspection to add a request to pay Invoice #10052302 from EPEC for the UV Upgrade – $286,540.20 to be Item F and 2. ADDITION TO OLD BUSINESS – requested by Matthew Wells for approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Fort Scott Pavilion recommended by the Design Review Board on November 21, 2023 to be Item F and B. Matkin requested that Kevin Allen be extended additional time to address the Commission under Public Comments.

 

  1. VanHoecke asked if the (2) items that came in late could wait until the next meeting or if they were an emergency. M. Wells stated that the Old Business item is for the Fort Scott Pavilion and needed to be approved so that construction and drilling could begin on the project immediately. T. VanHoecke asked B. Matkin if he was aware of the additions.  B. Matkin stated that he was only made aware of the pavilion item after the Design Review Board meeting that afternoon and that (the drilling) had already started.

 

  1. Harrington moved to approve the amended agenda. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE AMENDED AGENDA

 

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

– Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 7, 2023, and Minutes of Special Meeting of November 13, 2023.

 

– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1348-A – $257,614.70

 

– Request to Pay – Gilmore & Bell – Invoice #8052257 – Preparation of transcript documents, assembly of transcripts, bond printing, and examination of transcript and rendering approving opinion, in relation to the issuance of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023 for $4,925,000 to the City of Fort Scott Matter No. 600234.2003 – Amount due – $25,000.00.

 

– Change Order No. 3 – 17th & Eddy Storm Water Project – widen west 15th at National for approximately 85 feet to straighten the BOC with the entrance to True Value. Increase of $10,000.00 approved by City Manager 11/15/2023 to ensure continuation of work – B. Matkin

 

– October Financials

 

  1. Wells asked B. Matkin about the Franchise Fees for the cell services. B. Matkin stated that he has researched it and is currently working with the City Attorney on this item.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the addition of Item F for the request to pay EPEC $286,540.20 for the UV upgrade. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA WITH ADDITION OF ITEM F.

 

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

 

Kevin Allen – M. Wells called K. Allen to the podium to speak with no time limit as requested. K. Allen addressed the Commission to request that the City invest in the community by helping financially with his improvements to Aunt Toadies with a grant. He stated that Aunt Toadies is currently the only restaurant on the East side of town. The improvements would be (Phase I) to replace outdated kitchen equipment, (Phase II) renovating the home behind the restaurant to be used for reserved seating area, and (Phase III) to build a Pickleball Court.

 

Discussion was had about options. K. Allen was directed to request the Small Business Incentive Program that will hopefully be approved this evening and hopefully be the first applicant and potential model recipient.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

                                                     

Approval of 2024 City of Fort Scott Holiday Schedule

  1. Matkin stated that the (2) changes to the current year’s schedule are the addition of a floating holiday and October 14th. M. Guns moved to approve the 2024 City of Fort Scott Holiday Schedule as submitted.           E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE 2024 CITY OF FORT SCOTT HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

 

Approval of Common Consumption Ordinance for the City of Fort Scott- Historic Downtown District

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Ordinance No. 3756 Expanding the Common Consumption Area. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3756 EXPANDING THE EXISTING COMMON CONSUMPTION AREA.

 

Approval of amended parking lot lease for DCF building

  1. Harrington moved to accept the first amendment to the lease between Silverrock Ventures LLC and the City of Fort Scott, Kansas. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE LEASE BETWEEN SILVERROCK VENTURES LLC AND THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

Consideration of bids for window replacements of Gunn Park Shelter Houses 2 & 6 – Tabled from 11-7-2023.

  1. VanHoecke moved to accept the low bid from Home Depot for $8,976.00 without tax and not installed. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ACCEPT THE LOW BID FROM HOME DEPOT FOR $8,976.00.

 

Consideration Small Business Incentive Program – M. Wells

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the program as changed (in the work session). M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE SMALL BUSINESS INCENTIVE PROGRAM

 

Consideration of approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Fort Scott Pavilion

  1. Harrington moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Fort Scott Pavilion. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS FOR THE FORT SCOTT PAVILION.

 

 

APPEARANCES:

 

Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director addressed the Commission to update that the Proteus Probe was received on November 8th, 2023. A meeting was held for training by Zoom on November 15th, 2023. They have begun using the probe since and collecting data. The results of the probe readings from 11/15/2023, 11/16/2023, 11/18/2023, and 11/22/2023 and an ADM Quantity and Consistency Report from 1/2022 – 9/2023 were distributed to the Commission for discussion.

 

Jason Pickert/Chief of Police addressed the Commission regarding the grant for $18,000.00 that was awarded to purchase body-worn cameras.

 

Shane Lamb addressed the Commission to request an update on his request for abatement of all mowing assessments from his property previously known as The Fort Scott Manor. He stated he is coming before them tonight to get a clear title to close with his bank during the first week of December to begin construction on a 22-unit rental. M. Wells asked if S. Lamb would be able to provide a financial commitment from his bank.  Mr. Lamb agreed. Further discussion was had on previous requirements needed and requested from the Commission.  T. VanHoecke checked the November 15, 2022, minutes for the amount owed that was recorded.  The history of the request was reviewed.  M. Wells stated that if S. Lamb could provide a financial commitment from his bank, he felt confident that we could move forward with waving the special assessment fees.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the request to waive the special assessment fees up to $9,000.00 for the Fort Scott Manor property once the required permits are obtained, approval by the Fire Marshall and financial commitment papers are submitted by Shane Lamb. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO WAIVE THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT FEES UP TO $9,000.00 FOR THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY KNOWN AS THE FORT SCOTT MANOR AFTER THE REQUIRED PERMITS ARE OBTAINED AND APPROVAL FROM THE FIRE MARSHALL AND THE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT STATEMENT IS RECEIVED BY THE CITY.

 

 

 

 

NEW BUSINESS:  

 

Consideration of City Manager contract –   M. Wells stated that he is happy to inform citizens that the current City Manager, Brad Matkin has acquiesced to the Commission’s request to stay on and help continue to guide our city into the future.   M. Wells stated he is looking for a motion and a second to move forward with the contract to keep Brad here for the foreseeable future.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the revised City Manager contract for Bradley L. Matkin for the City of Fort Scott with the one item that was added which was regarding performance metrics. M. Wells seconded. seconded. T. VanHoecke, M. Guns and M. Wells voted yes.
  2. Harrington and E. Woellhof voted nay.

 

APPROVED THE REVISED CITY MANAGER CONTRACT FOR BRADLEY L. MATKIN FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT INCLUDING THE ADDITIONAL ITEM PERTAINING TO PERFORMANCE METRICS.

 

Discussion was had between Commissioners regarding the contract.

 

Consideration of Letter of Interest for Danny Craig to the Parks Advisory Board

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Danny Craig for a position on the Parks Advisory Board. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO APPOINT DANNY CRAIG FOR A (3) YEAR TERM ON THE PARK ADVISORY BOARD.

 

Consideration of 2023 Christmas Parade Permit

  1. Wells moved to approve the application for the 2023 Christmas Parade Permit. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE APPLICATION FOR THE 2023 CHRISTMAS PARADE PERMIT.

 

Consideration of Change Order No. 3 – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 22-PF-016-2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Final measured quantities – Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering and Inspection requested approval of the final change order contingent upon CDBG’s approval.  T. VanHoecke moved to accept the change order for the 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer project and the amount of a reduction of $14,727.00.  K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED CHANGE ORDER NUMBER (3) FROM BENNETT, INC. PERTAINING TO FINAL MEASURED QUANTITIES FOR THE 2022 CDBG SANITARY SEWER PROJECT, AND THE REDUCTION OF $14,727.00.

 

Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 22-PF-016 – 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 6 (Final) – $164,623.89

  1. Guns moved to approve final payment number (6) in the amount of $164,623.89 to Bennett Construction for the CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project contingent on the CDBG final approval. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO PAY BENNETT, INC $164,623.89 AS FINAL PAYMENT FOR THE 2022 CDBG SANITARY SEWER PROJECT. RELEASE OF PAYMENT IS CONTINGENT UPON FINAL APPROVAL FROM CDBG.

 

  1. Matkin thanked the citizens for their cooperation during the sewer project and stated that Bennett, Inc. is “top-notch” and was great to work with as a contractor with excellent communication. M. Wells and J. Dickman agreed.

 

Consideration to go out for bid of Lake Fort Scott boat ramp – B. Matkin stated that according to the City’s Purchasing Policy, we will need to go out for bids for the boat ramp repair, but it will need to be a short bidding time due to winter weather coming.  B. Farmer stated that bids are not required for this project because it is a maintenance project.  B. Matkin stated he would like to follow the Purchasing Policy and go out for bid.

 

  1. Wells moved to go out for bid for the Lake Fort Scott boat ramp repair work with bids to be opened in one week and engineered by the contractor. Bid was struck. Commission directed B. Matkin to go out for bids.

 

Consideration to combine CCLIP US-54 Projects – Funds to come from the individual departments.  J. Dickman explained that combining Phase I and Phase II of the project, instead of doing them separately. He stated that the state wants to execute the agreement for Phase I and then the city will apply for Phase II with a supplemental agreement if the Commission agrees to combine the projects. This will push the project to bid in the summer of 2025. J. Dickman stated that the benefit of combining the projects has benefits on the construction side with efficiency, cost, and timing. He explained the future of the project.

 

  1. Wells moved to combine the CCLIP US-54 projects Phase I and Phase II. K. Harrington seconded.

 

APPROVED TO COMBINE THE CCLIP US-54 PROJECTS PHASE I AND PHASE II.

 

Further discussion was had about the benefits of combining the projects.

 

Lake Properties discussion – T. VanHoecke stated that a complaint was made to him and the City Manager from a Lake resident, regarding an individual who was using city-owned property (at the lake) to run a business. Equipment was left parked there and the appearance is not right.  T. VanHoecke went to check out the complaint and there appears to be more than one instance.  He met with the City Attorney for options. T. VanHoecke would like to have the Commission direct the City Manager to work with Earles Engineering to finish surveying (6) lake lots that are currently in progress and then have the Commission consider the properties’ futures. He stated that there are also second-tier properties to consider as well. He suggested that the sale of the lots could possibly be a resource for economic development funds, housing funds, Memorial Hall repair funds and possibly take some of the work off city crews who are maintaining those spaces. He asked the Commission to think about it and possibly bring it back to discussion at the next meeting. He also asked the Commission to support having Earles Engineering complete the surveying of (6) lots already in progress to determine what to do with all the land that is at the lake and not currently benefiting the city.

 

Further discussion was had about the history of the lake properties and considerations to keep in mind, sewer requirements and possible violations, annexation, and Lake Fund usage.  J. Dickman commented on lake lots and options for the Commission’s consideration.

 

  1. VanHoecke left the room and returned.

 

  1. Woellhof left the room and returned.

 

City Manager comments

Engineer’s comments

Commissioner comments

City Attorney’s comments

 

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:00PM. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:00PM

 

Next Meeting:

REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING – Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at 6:00PM

 

 

Submitted by:

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Fort Scott, Government

Agenda of the Fort Scott City Commission for December 5

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR        

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

CITY HALL COMMISSION ROOM – 123 SOUTH MAIN ST.

December 5, 2023 – 6:00 P.M.

 

 

 

  1.   Roll Call:
  2.     VanHoecke       K. Harrington      E. Woellhof        M. Guns         M. Wells
  3.   Pledge of Allegiance & Invocation:  M. Wells

III.    Approval of Agenda:

  1. Consent Agenda:
  2. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 21, 2023
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1349-A – $573,833.97
  4. Request to Pay – EPEC – Invoice #11202301 – Phase II Aeration Upgrade – $537,301.70
  5. Request to Pay – J. Richardson Construction – Project No. 21-307 – 17th & Eddy Stormwater Improvements – Payment Application No. 7, period ending 11/13/2023 – $17,778.77
  6. Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 23-005B – Infantry Substation Sanitary Sewer Relocation – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 1 –    $172,482.75
  7. Request to Pay – Nowak Construction Co., Inc. – Project No. 22-305 – South Industrial Waterline Extension – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 1,     period ending 11/29/2023 – $119,472.30
  8. Approval of Ordinance No. 3757 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT SCOTT STORMWATER USER CHARGE AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3597 FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS, PURSUANT TO THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE, CHAPTER 13.24.121
  9. Approval of Ordinance No. 3758 – AN ORDINANCE SETTING NEW WATER RATES AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3755 FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS, PURSUANT TO THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE, CHAPTER 13.04.030
  10. I. Approval of Ordinance No. 3759 – AN ORDINANCE INCREASING THE BASIC MONTHLY CHARGE FOR SANITARY SEWER RATES IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT BY AMENDING CHAPTER 13.24.100 AND 13.24.110 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3596
  11. Public Comment:   Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda

and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.

 

  1. Old Business:

 

  1. Advisory Boards Update – B. Matkin
  2. Lake Property Continued Discussion – T. VanHoecke

 

VII.    Appearances:

  1. Christin and Chad Young from Lawrence, KS – Request to hold Tent Revival Event at Memorial Hall
  2. Seth Needham – Cub Scout Pack 114 Soapbox Derby – Good Ol’ Days 2024
  3. Kirk Sharp – Kansas Museum Conference 2024
  4.  New Business: 
  5. Consideration of Water Crane rates for 2024
  6. Consideration of CD bids for reinvestment
  7. Consideration of 2024 MOU – IT Support for City of Fort Scott – Shared Services with Bourbon County
  8. Consideration of January 2, 2024, and January 16, 2024, City Commission Meetings

 

  1. Reports and Comments:
  2. City Manager Comments:
  3. Engineering Comments:
  4. Commissioners Comments:
  5. VanHoecke –
  6. Harrington –
  7. Woellhof –
  8. Guns –
  9. Wells –

 

  1. City Attorney Comments:
  2.  Executive Session:

XII.     Adjournment:

 

Next regular meeting scheduled:  Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 6:00PM

Business, Fort Scott, Jobs

Timken to Close Operations in Fort Scott In 2025

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Timken is located in Fort Scott’s Industrial Park on the city’s south side.

The Timken LLC Plant at 4505 Campbell Road in Fort Scott’s Industrial Park will close in 2025, according to a press release from Timken Media Relations Spokesman Scott Schroeder.

“Today, we notified employees at our belts facility in Fort Scott, Kan., that we will be gradually winding down operations there and plan to close the plant in 2025,” he said. “While difficult, we’re making this change to streamline our operations and restructure our manufacturing footprint to better compete in a global market.”

“We will provide support to help those employees affected by this change, including on-site counseling, benefits planning and retention and severance pay. We wanted to be transparent and provide as much time as possible so employees can plan for their future,” he said.

“We’re committed to providing at least 60 days notice before an employee’s last day,” he said.

Approximately 155 employees work at Timken’s  Fort Scott facility.

Timken engineers and manufactures bearings and industrial motion products…to help global industries operate more efficiently, according to the Timken website.

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee at Sunshine Boutique on November 30

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

Sunshine Boutique

Thursday, November 30th

8am

18 E. Wall

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee event this Thursday, November 30th at 8 a.m. hosted by Sunshine Boutique, 18 E. Wall St.

Sunshine Boutique celebrated forty-two years of business in the Downtown Historic District on October 18th. Georgia Brown, her granddaughter Rilie Creollo, and team offer unique and quality items including whole bean coffees and fresh teas, candles, bath & body, apparel, home decor, tuxedo rentals, and floral services. Georgia Brown is a legacy in Fort Scott, and we are so excited to announce that she will be the Grand Marshal for the Candy Land Christmas Parade this Thursday night at 6pm. Join us Thursday to see what Georgia, Rilie, and team have new in-store for great gifts and stocking stuffers!

Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served in addition to a door prize drawing. Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information.

Click here for their Facebook Page!

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

Fort Scott House Fire on November 25

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House fire on November 25 from the Fort Scott Fire Department Facebook page.
The Fort Scott Fire Department was dispatched to 218 Horton late Saturday evening, November 25,  to a report of a structure fire, according to the FSFD Facebook page.

The fire alarm was received at 10:36,  and the  fire was under control at 10:59 p.m., according to FS Fire Chief Dave Bruner.

The fire scene was cleared by 1:20 a.m.

Nine FSFD personnel responded to the fire.

Crews arrived on the scene of a fully involved structure fire.
A defensive fire attack was made due to the fire already being through the roof and 80% of the home was on fire.
“Fire crews did an amazing job getting the blaze under control before it could cause damage or spread to neighboring homes,” according to the Facebook post.
Crews battled the blaze until the early morning hours.
The cause of the fire is currently being investigated by FSFD investigators along with assistance from the Kansas State Fire Marshal.
Unfortunately, the home is a total loss and the tenant lost a couple of pets.
Thankfully the tenant was able to escape and was transported by Bourbon County Emergency Medical Services for evaluation.
The fire department wishes to thank the Fort Scott Police Department and the Bourbon County EMS for their assistance.
The Fort Scott Fire Department fights a fire on November 25, 2023. From its Facebook page.
Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Community Christmas Light Contest

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

announces Christmas Light Contest sponsored by Niece Products!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce encourages businesses, residents, and neighborhoods to “Deck the Fort” and make the community merry and bright for the holidays.

Niece Products is sponsoring the Christmas Light Contest with cash prizes for the winners including:

Residential : 1st/$100, 2nd/$75, 3rd/$50

Top Business: $100

Top Neighborhood: $100

Other contest details:

  • Lights should be in place by Dec. 5th and judging will take place between the 11th and 13th.
  • Properties within a 1 mile radius of city limits will be considers for contest
  • Those wanting to ensure their property or someone else’s judged should call or email the Chamber with their address, name, and phone number
  • Lighting and decorations must be visible from street view.

The Chamber encourages everyone to get in the spirit with lights this season. For more information contact the Chamber at 620.223.3566 or by email at [email protected].
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Bourbon County, Fort Scott

Match Day Tomorrow for FS Community Foundation

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Fort Scott Area Community Foundation

Announces Inaugural Match Day

On National Day of Giving

Unique Opportunity This Year

For Matching Funds!

Consider Making a Donation

Tuesday, November 28th!

Donate online www.fortscottgives.org

or drop off your check at the Chamber ~

Donation HAS to be on Tuesday the 28th

for the Match, or Postmarked

no later than the 29th!

Click here for a printable form.

_________________

See Fund Options & More Info. Below!

The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation (FSACF) is pleased to announce a MATCH for all upcoming donations. Through a generous donation from the Patterson Family Foundation, FSACF has the opportunity to match up to $25,000 for gifts made to Fort Scott Area Community Foundation funds on November 28, 2023 (see funds below). We are very excited for our inaugural Match Day!

We are asking our year-end givers to consider making their donations on Match Day rather than through our annual Good Works Forever campaign. Donations are eligible for any or all of the ten funds as noted on our website: www.FortScottGives.org. What an awesome way to see our funds grow and allow more opportunities to provide grants to worthwhile projects and organizations in Bourbon County!

On Tuesday, November 28, 2023, donations will be accepted:

  • Online at www.FortScottGives.org or
  • In person, delivered to Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall, on or before Tuesday, November 28 or
  • By check, mailed to FSACF, P.O. Box 901, Fort Scott, KS 66701 with a postmark date no later than November 29, 2023. Please complete the enclosed form so that we can apply your gift to the fund of your choice. Please make checks payable to: Fort Scott Area Community Foundation

Donations are fully tax-deductible. Charitable gift receipts will be sent to donors. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions and need more information.

We are grateful for your support and any contribution you can give to help us continue our mission! If you have any questions about Match Day, please visit www.FortScottGives.org or call 620-231-8897. Thank you!

R. Craig Campbell, Chairman of the Foundation

David Shepherd, Asset Development
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2023/2024 FSACF Board of Directors

Craig Campbell, Chair

Becky Tourtillott, Vice Chair

Lindsay Madison, Secretary/ Marketing

Sheryl Bloomfield

Janet Braun

Michelle Bruner

Steve Buerge

Diana Endicott

Jess Ervin

Carla Farmer

Ronda Hassig

Bailey Lyons

Linda Noll

Kirk Sharp

Travis Shelton

David Shepherd

Jordan Witt
Connect with us:
Click here to Like the Foundation’s Facebook page.
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Business, Entertainment, Food, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

First Ever Christmas on the Bricks: Something For Everyone

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The inaugural Christmas on the Bricks Festival is this weekend and behind the scenes, the committee has been working like elves in Santa’s workshop. Today is the deadline for parade entry and sponsorship gathering, see at end of the feature.

“There will be a variety of things that people can do,” Diane Striler, Elevate Fort Scott Christmas Chairman said. “It will be a unique event that people will want to come back to each year.”

The group formed in the spring of 2023, and there are several committees.

Beside Striler, on the Christmas on the Bricks committee are Lindsay Madison, Brad Matkin, and Josh Jones.

“Brad Matkin wanted to start a group to bring awesome things to the community,” Striler said. The group started talking about Christmas. “Brad saw cutouts for photo opportunities at Branson (MO.) I love Christmas and said ‘Let me help with that!’, ” she said.

“So many people have helped out,” Striler said. “Denise Beaman is helping with the Fort Scott Downtown Christmas Tree Contest for businesses. The city workers are helping downtown get ready for the event. Mid Continental Restoration is supplying generators for the booths that will be set up downtown. Southeast Kansas Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) instructors and students designed the booths, and Structural Panel Innovations (SPI) cut the walls for the booths. Niece Products made and donated the firepits that will be used for making s’mores.”

Many, many people have donated time, expertise, or materials to the event, she said.

Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce has had a Christmas Parade for years, ending with the lighting of the huge Mayor’s Christmas Tree at the end of North Main Street.

This year has been added St. Mary’s Catholic School students (Fort Scott)  will be singing at the lighting ceremony, and fireworks will go off as the tree is lit.

Striler said she is a TV Hallmark Channel fan and many of her ideas have come from those romantic drama movies.

One of the first things Striler did was to find horse-drawn carriages that would give rides. “We have Orange Star Carriages from Arkansas who are bringing three carriages. The cost is $40 for four people, with small children sitting on a lap for free. We are encouraging people to pre-register ahead of time. They will be at Wall and Scott Avenue (the depot building) from 6 to 10 p.m.”

The downtown businesses will be open until  8 p.m. each evening.

Businesses are competing in a Christmas tree decorating contest. “This will bring awareness to the businesses downtown. The public can vote at the Courtland Hotel at 1st and Scott Street,” she said.

Vendor booths will be selling “Quality Christmas-related items, that don’t compete with our businesses,” she said.

There will be a public information booth on Wall Street.

At that booth will be sold Fort Scott Christmas on the Bricks commemorative items, including t-shirts and sweatshirts (price range $30 to $55) and mini-brick Christmas ornaments created by the Artificers owners, Kate and Trent Freeman, which will sell for $20.

Striler said she has been “asking God to handle the little things and the weather.”

The following is provided by the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce:

Click HERE for a printable PDF copy of the flyer.

Click HERE for more details on the individual activities listed.

Events that require pre-registration include:
* Horse-drawn Carriage Rides
* Candlelight Tours of the Fort
* Gingerbread House Making Contest
* Christmas Paint Party at Pizza Republic
* Floral Centerpiece Making Class

For places to stay during the event: click here

 

The organizers for the Christmas on the Bricks want to recognize the event sponsors.

To be added to the sponsors for promotion, printed signs, and materials for the event, contact the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce today, Monday, November 27 by 1 p.m.

 

From the Chamber press release:

The festival will be packed full of holiday cheer, events, shopping, and activities for all ages with aspirations to be a destination for an Old-Fashioned Christmas.

The weekend will kick off with the“Candy Land Christmas” Parade of Lights on Thursday, November 30th at 6 pm, followed by the Lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, Music by St. Mary’s School Choir, Holiday Fireworks, and Pictures with Santa insideBe the Light Boutique at 12 N. Main St.

Click here to enter the parade by 1 pm on 11/27!

Events taking place on BOTH Friday and Saturday,

December 1st and 2nd, include:

• 42nd Annual Candlelight Tours, Fort Scott National Historic Site, Fri. 6:30-9 pm, Sat. 5-9 pm

• Downtown Business Christmas Tree Decorating Contest cast your vote @ the Courtland, your vote will also enter you in a drawing for prizes!

• The Artificers 7th Annual Christmas Show, Fri. 5-9 pm, Sat. 10 am-9 pm, Sun., 12-5 pm

• Downtown Stores Open Late for Shopping, until at least 8 pm each night

• Crooner’s Outdoor Patio decorated for photo opportunities, open to the public Fri.-Sun.

• Nativity Showcase, First United Methodist Church, Fri. 5-8 pm, Sat. 10 am-2 pm

• Holiday Market Booths at Wall & Main St., Friday 6-10 pm, Saturday 12-10 pm

• Carriage Rides departing from the Depot, 6-10 pm each night

• Firepits with S’mores on Skubitz Plaza, 6-10 pm each night

• Live Nativity by Bethel Church, 1st St. & Scott Ave., 5:30-8:30pm each night

• Pictures with Santa, Be the Light Boutique, Fri. 5-8 pm, Sat. 12-2 pm & 5-8 pm

• Historical Trolley Tours from the Chamber & Visitor’s Center, Fri. 11 am-2 pm, Sat. 10 am-2 pm

Friday-only events include:

• Outdoor Movies at Lowell Milken Park, 6 pm until over

• Live Music by Holly Crays 6:30-7:30pm & Morgan Rohr 8-9 pm, Heritage Pavilion, 1st & Main St.

• Christmas Karaoke at Sharky’s North Pole Pop-up Christmas Bar (3rd floor), 9 pm-1 am

Saturday-only events include:

• Gingerbread House Making Contest, Brickstreet BBQ, 10 am

• Candy Land Adventure, Museum of Creativity, 10 am-4 pm

• Christmas Paint Party at Pizza Republic, 1-3 pm

• Christmas Cookie Decorating and Storytime, Hedgehog.INK!, 2pm

• Chili Feed by FSPD & FSFD, Empress Event Center, 5:30-8 pm

• Bourbon County Revival live band, Empress Event Center, 6-8 pm

• Late-night SINGO, Memorial Hall, 8-11 pm

Sunday-only events include:

• Cohn’s Cafe Holiday Family Style Brunch, 10 am-2 pm, reservations strongly recommended, call or text 620-418-6209

• Floral Centerpiece Making Class by Sunshine Boutique, 1 pm

Be sure and look for the Christmas cutouts throughout Downtown for photo opportunities with your friends and family, being made by Mike & Danyell Miles.

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Fort Scott express sincere thanks to ALL the sponsors, volunteers, and staff who are making this event possible, including:

Event Chairperson and Chamber Board Member, Diane Striler; Chamber President & CEO, Lindsay Madison; Communications & Events Coordinator Emily Clayton.

Locals and visitors are encouraged to make plans to enjoy this

This is a FUN weekend on the bricks of the Downtown Historic Fort Scott District!

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

Entertainment, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Deadline for Christmas Parade Entry Is Today, November 27

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

presents the 2023 Christmas Parade!

Thursday, November 30th at 6pm

Deadline to enter the parade:

Monday, November 27th, 1pm

Click here for printable entry form.

Click here to enter online.

The Parade will start at Wall & National, in front of the radio station, go south on National to 3rd St., turn left on to Main St., then proceed north on Main to Skubitz Plaza where the parade will end at the Mayors Christmas Tree.

Festivities after the Christmas parade in Fort Scott:

*Lighting of the Mayors Christmas Tree immediately following the parade, north end of Main

*Holiday Fireworks

*Photos with Santa at Be the Light Boutique

Get your co-workers, friends or family together

& enter the parade today!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Fort Scott, Schools

USD234 is asking for YOUR help to fill out a short survey about Child Care needs in Fort Scott!

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Sending on Behalf of Chamber Member

USD234 Board of Education…

USD234 is asking for YOUR help to fill out a short survey about Child Care needs in Fort Scott!

Click the link below to start the survey!

https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7592853/Fort-Scott-Child-Care-Needs-Survey.

Deadline is November 29th, don’t wait!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce, K-State Extension

Buying Gifts In The Community Is Beneficial to the Community

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Graphic from the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
This year Small Business Saturday falls on November 25th and is a day when shoppers are encouraged to buy from local, small businesses for the good of the community they live in.
Supporting local small businesses is beneficial to both the buyer and the business. Savings on gas fill-ups and time are some of the benefits to buyers for buying local, and then there are the benefits to those businesses they buy from.
“What a difference a few dollars spent per shopper can make! ” said Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Lindsay Madison said. And the Chamber has been working to encourage local shoppers.

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is registered as a Neighborhood Champion for Shop Small, Small Business Saturday, a program initiated by American Express, according to Madison.

Lindsay Madison. Submitted photo.

Neighborhood Champions work to rally the community to shop at local small businesses.

The Chamber has put together a Shop Small Passport that shoppers may pick up from local retailers this Friday and Saturday, she said.  “If shoppers earn three or more stamps by purchasing $5 or more, they turn in the passport at their 3rd store for an entry to win $50 in Chamber Bucks.  The drawing will take place on Tuesday, November 28th.  Chamber Bucks can be used like cash at over 60 Chamber member businesses and restaurants.”

“If you don’t already, we ask you to Like and Follow the Chamber’s Facebook page, Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce,” she said.  “We have been posting a social campaign over the last couple of weeks to illustrate the importance of shopping local and what a difference a few dollars spent per shopper can make!  Some of those social posts have included the following messaging:

  • “Per score.org, for every $1 you spend at a small business, 67 cents stays in the local community. Forty-four cents goes to the small business owner and employee’s wages and benefits and 23 cents gets reinvested in other local businesses,” she said.
  • “Your $20 spent locally does more than purchase goods, it weaves a community tapestry, where every thread strengthens the whole. That same $20 circulates.  You eat at a local restaurant and tip the wait staff, the wait staff then goes and gets a haircut, the stylist then goes and buys a cup of coffee, the barista then buys a candle at a gift shop, and so on.  When you spend $20 online, that $20 is gone out of our community.
  • “Ten dollars spent at a local store can have a sizable impact. It’s estimated that over $9.3 billion would be returned to our U.S. economy if every family spent just $10 a month at a local business. That’s not even one meal’s worth of spending a month! It’s only a few cups of coffee or a glass of wine a month. What a tremendous impact we could have if everyone could commit to that.”

“As you Shop Small over the weekend, be sure to pick up your Passport,” Madison said.  “Have some fun and earn a chance to win while you’re supporting our local businesses are hit up year-round to sponsor events, support school fundraisers, and more.  It’s our turn to give back to them.”

The Chamber received a limited amount of promotional products from American Express that is being distributed to locally owned Chamber member small businesses to use during Small Business Season, said Madison.

Check out our Chamber member businesses and links to their websites here! https://fortscott.com/members/
#fortscottchamber
#smallbusinessseason
#shoplocal
#supportsmall
#shopsmall
Amanda Classen. Submitted photo.
From Amanda Clasen, Kansas State Extension Community Vitality Agent’s, weekly column:

“In 2010, American Express started the Small Business Saturday effort to help direct consumer’s dollars to local businesses. The nationwide holiday is held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Some ideas to help you shop locally this holiday season may include:

  • Use a local print shop to see if they offer greeting cards or other unique gifts.
  • Support local flower shops by sending unique holiday arrangements that can be displayed throughout the holiday season.
  • Shop at local craft shows that showcase youth and Local Entrepreneurs. If your recipient likes to cook, buy a cookbook from a local fundraiser and attach dry ingredients to a new recipe.
  • Purchase from local grocery stores or farmer’s markets for ingredients in your holiday meals.
  • Purchase gift cards to local businesses, restaurants, and businesses of interest.
  • Recognize your own talents that you may have as well to provide a heartfelt gift that may not necessarily be bought at a big box store.