Unified School District 234 424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
www.usd234.org
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, February 9, 2026
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, for
their regular monthly meeting at 900 E 3rd St.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
01-12-26
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – January 20, 2026 – $1,801,674.26
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
Key Club Fundraising Form
Students from Eugene Ware presented to the Board. Working with Mrs. Keating the students cover
announcements and help make the parent weekly newsletter. They have been able to participate in
leadership training at Greenbush and do several fun fundraisers during this school year. Mrs.
Query, Eugene Ware’s Principal, had a presentation that highlighted a few amazing things
happening in the building. She ended explaining how staff morale has been great thanks to
Secretaries Jessica Johnson and Kenda Schmidt and their entertaining projects that include
everyone.
Superintendent Destry Brown informed the Board on great things happening at Tiger Academy and
has appreciated all the support that they have been given.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided a shared document. Mr. Mayfield reviewed
budget projections and insurance renewals. He also updated on Preschool Building project with
the playground being installed soon.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on winter iReady scores showing
positive growth throughout the district. Later this week a few staff will be traveling to PSU to
participate in Teacher Interviews with graduation students.
Special Education Director Tonya Barnes shared an update on reports that are coming due soon.
She also invited all to Special Olympics Basketball at Fort Scott High School on February 18.
The Board approved the following:
● Resolution 25-16 Healthy Kansas Farm to School Program
The Board received an informational overview of Fort Scott USD 234’s five-year long-range
financial outlook for FY25–FY30. This review examines enrollment trends, revenue assumptions,
and projected expenditure growth to provide a forward-looking view of the district’s financial
trajectory. No board action was requested.
The Board went into an executive session for property acquisition.
There were none present for public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for attorney-client privilege.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
February 9, 2026
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
Barr, Lynn – Supplemental Resignation – Head Girls/Boys Tennis Coach – High School
Campbell, Erin – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Hudiburg, Kenny – Supplemental Resignation – Assistant Girls Tennis Coach
Rogers, Jamie – Supplemental Resignation – Girls Basketball Coach – Middle School
Leave of Absence:
Barrager, Terry – Custodian – Eugene Ware
TRANSFER:
Clayton, Emily – Paraprofessional to OT Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Durossette, Jake – Business Teacher to Math Teacher – High School – 2026-27
Weber, Betty – Paraprofessional – KRI to Winfield Scott
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations for 2026-27 School year:
Hendricks, Caleb – Assistant Principal – Winfield Scott
Martin, Jared – Athletic Director – High School
Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:
Carson, Jessica – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Cooper, Tyler – Custodian – Middle School
Davenport, Sam – Paraprofessional – Middle School
Hodges, Julius – Paraprofessional – KRI
Ruggero, Frankie – Custodian – Middle School
Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Carney, Drew – Supplemental – Assistant Track Coach – High School
Chipman, Karlie – Supplemental – Assistant Boys Golf Coach – High School
Sponsor Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Cook, Gary – Head Sponsor – Archery
Whitehead, Trisha – Assistant Sponsor – Archery
Category Archives: Government
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson February 6, 2026
Property Tax Relief – Senate and House Leaders, including the tax committee chairmen, met on Monday to lay the groundwork and coordinate moving on property tax reform. Two key initiatives were discussed: the Cap Assessment Protection (CAP) Amendment, SCR 1616, and a revenue cap proposal that would limit increases to no more than 3% without a vote of the people. Implementing both caps is designed to deliver taxpayer protection – shielding taxpayers from sudden, steep tax hikes; transparency – eliminating hidden tax increases that occur when property assessment values skyrocket even when mill rates stay flat or decline; predictability – giving families, farmers, and small business owners a reliable way to budget for future tax bills.
The CAP Amendment is ready for debate on the Senate floor, and the House will begin committee work on a revenue limit measure. However, some special interest groups are working to kill the progress. Certain lobbyists claim SCR 1616 isn’t a “true” tax cut – a claim that ignores the amendment’s 2022 baseline value, which lowers the growth trajectory for everyone. Opponents of SCR 1616 are attempting to block your right to decide. Because it is a constitutional amendment, passage by the Legislature doesn’t change the law – it puts the decision in your hands at the ballot box. You should have the option to vote on the 3% or less Property Tax CAP Amendment. While the CAP Amendment and the revenue limit are still in the early stages of the legislative process, these proposals represent significant structural property tax protections.
Current law requires revenue neutral letters so that you’re notified of any increases and have an opportunity to be heard in a public meeting before the governing body increases your taxes, forcing transparency. This combined with the CAP Amendment and revenue limits, will have meaningful safeguards. Together, these measures would create one of the strongest systems in the country for protecting taxpayers from sudden and excessive property tax increases, while also increasing transparency and accountability in the process.
Kansas Supreme Court Nominating Commission secrecy will end if SB 299 becomes law. The bill bars any rule that blocks public access to its records. It requires disclosure of the commission’s files, including nominees’ names and hometowns, while keeping background‑checks and sensitive financial information confidential. SB 299 passed unanimously and was sent to the House for consideration.
Unclaimed Cremated Remains could be released or respectfully disposed of after three years by a coroner if HB 2331 becomes law. It also sets special procedures for veterans’ remains, codifies current education requirements for licensed embalmers and funeral directors, and creates a felony for intentionally moving a body to conceal a death or another crime. The bill was amended again to allow all required continuing education hours for embalmers and funeral directors to be completed online, instead of requiring at least 3 hours of in-person training. That change has drawn concern from some funeral homes and is still to be decided. The bill passed unanimously and was returned to the House, which will decide whether to accept the Senate changes or call for a conference committee to negotiate the changes.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Memorial Hall Improvement Project Slated for Completion By Years End
Fort Scott’s Memorial Hall is over 100 years old, and the exterior requires improvement.
The City of Fort Scott received a Community Development Block Grant, administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce in July 2025, for an exterior improvement project on Memorial Hall, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The competitive grant is in the amount of $582,000, with a local city match of $184,484, for a total estimated project cost of $766,484.
“The 15–18-month project period began when we received notification of the grant award in July of 2025, so barring any need for extensions along the way and taking all aspects of the process into consideration, we can anticipate that the Memorial Hall project could be completed around the end of 2026,” said Mary Wyatt, Fort Scott’s Planning, Housing, and Business Development Director.
The process
“The scope of this project includes: replacement of all windows throughout Memorial Hall, miscellaneous tuck pointing to seal up the exterior of the building, and replacement of a small area of roof that is leaking,” she said. “The scope of this project was developed to completely seal the exterior of Memorial Hall to protect against any future precipitation and moisture from entering the building and causing damage.”
“We are currently waiting for the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to give us their clearance,” she said. They are the last piece of the environmental review process of the CDBG grant.”
“Once we have that approval from SHPO to move forward, the completed environmental review will be presented for signature at a City Commission meeting.”
“After the environmental review is signed, we must publish a notice in the newspaper that will require a 15-day comment period.”
“Next, there will be an additional document that Mayor Salsbury will be requested to sign, and then all of the grant paperwork in its entirety can be submitted to the Kansas Department of Commerce for review.”
“Once our environmental review is approved by the Kansas Department of Commerce, we will then have the clearance to begin seeking bids for the construction aspect of this project.”
“State grants such as the CDGG program have very detailed steps and reporting processes, then we factor in this particular project being for a historic building, which adds that additional review step from SHPO, so all in all it can take some time.”
“We are so immensely grateful to the Kansas Department of Commerce for providing grant opportunities like CDBG that allow smaller communities such as Fort Scott to apply. Programs like these give our rural Kansas community the chance to take on a project of this magnitude that we would not otherwise have had the financial resources for without the assistance of these State grant programs.”
History of Memorial Hall
“Memorial Hall was constructed in 1925 and dedicated to ‘Those men and women who gave their lives serving our country in World War I’ and was rededicated in 2001 to ‘All of the men and women who have served, are now serving or will serve in the Armed Forces of the United States of America,'” she said.
“Memorial Hall has been utilized for such a wide range of activities and events over the past 100 years that it has stood proudly in our community. Currently and in recent years, Memorial Hall has been utilized for Old Fort Genealogical Society of Southeastern Kansas headquarters, Daughters of the American Revolution headquarters, American Legion Post 25 headquarters, community concerts, comedians, Good Ol Day events, weddings, birthdays, fundraiser events, Boy Scout events, and bingo which, is regularly hosted by the American Legion. We also hosted a 100-year celebration of Memorial Hall in September of 2025.”
“In past years and decades, Memorial Hall has been used for City Commission meetings and City Hall department headquarters, conventions, graduations, basketball games, roller skating activities, a circus event, and in the 1990’s it hosted a show called from Branson to Broadway. Andre the Giant even wrestled Mad Dog Harley Race inside those historic walls! When I was in middle school 30 years ago, I had fond memories of our choir and orchestra concerts being hosted in the beautiful auditorium with the phenomenal acoustics the space provides. This list, as vast as it is, does not fully cover all of the meaningful community gatherings and events that have occurred within this incredible community facility that Fort Scott is so very lucky to have.”
Mary Wyatt’s office is located at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street
Fort Scott, KS 66701
She can be reached at 620-418-5107 (Cell) or
620-223-0550 (Office)
KS House Bill 2347 Explained
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Agenda for the Uniontown City Council on Feb. 10
The Uniontown City Council will meet at 7 p.m. on February 10, 2026 at City Hall
CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by _____________________________
ROLL CALL: ___ Kyle Knight ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett
___ Bradley Stewart
2026 Financials – January
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Carry Spoon – Grants
CITIZENS REQUESTS
FINANCIAL REPORT
Sally Johnson – Financial reports
APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA
- Minutes of January 12, 2026 Regular Council Meeting
- Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
Utility Meters
Clerk Report: Haley Arnold
At-large Dog Complaint
Water Rate Increase
EMC Insurance Conditional Renewal
Jayhawk Software Renewal
Memorial Stone Design Proposal
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin –
Councilman Kelly –
Councilwoman Pemberton –
Councilwoman Pritchett –
Councilman Stewart–
Mayor Jurgensen –
OLD BUSINESS
FEMA Flooding–
NEW BUSINESS
ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________
Unapproved Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on Jan. 12
The Regular Council Meeting on January 12, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart at 7:10PM and Councilmember-elect Kyle Knight. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was Mike Ramsey, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Motion by Pemberton, Second by Pritchett, Approved 3-0, to approve Mayor Approval of 2026 CMB License Applications.
City Clerk Arnold administered the oath of office to re-elected Mayor Larry Jurgensen and to newly elected Councilman Kyle Knight.
Open discussion took place on the available councilmember position. After discussion on possible new councilmembers, Amber Kelly volunteered to fill the vacant position.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Pritchett, Approved 4-0, to approve Amber Kelly for an additional term of office on the Council.
Council thanked Kelly for serving another term as councilwoman.
City Clerk Arnold administered the oath of office to Amber Kelly.
Motion by Pemberton, Second by Pritchett, Approved 4-0, to approve Bradly Stewart as president of the Council.
CITIZENS REQUEST
Mr. Mike Ramsey addressed the Council with questions regarding the memorial stones and the process for purchasing a stone. Council advised that, at this time, only one memorial stone requires repairs. Council further stated that there is no specific numbering or designation system for individual stones within the park. Individuals wishing to purchase a stone must provide a description of the stone’s location.
Council informed Mr. Ramsey that the $150 purchase fee includes the stone itself and lifetime maintenance of the stone. Mr. Ramsey was provided with the memorial stone design form and advised that the form was officially adopted at the previous month’s Council meeting. Council explained that prior to purchasing a stone, both the purchase fee and the proposed engraving design must receive Council approval before engraving may proceed.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Johnson presented the December 2025 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $210,072.85, Receipts $51,497.04, Transfers Out $20,016.00, Expenditures $40,808.43, Checking Account Closing Balance $200,745.46. Bank Statement Balance $218,472.49, including Checking Account Interest of $45.08, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $17,727.03, Reconciled Balance $200,745.46. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $38,724.94, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $23,332.48, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $45,677.57, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $308,480.45. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $623.56, and Utility CDs $2,458.47 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $3,082.03. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of December 2025, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. December Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,616.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $4,000.00; from Water Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,000.00, for Total Transfers of $20,016.00. Net Loss for the month of December $9,327.39, Year-to-Date Net Loss $63,118.28. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $118,624.48 (88.1%), Expenditures $134,188.42 (87.9%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $35,276.00 (94.8%), Expenditures $45,483.46 (98.6%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $114,866.39 (92.7%), Expenditures $129,756.54 (81.4%); General Fund YTD Revenue $181,648.12 (121.3%), Expenditures $231,798.36 (108.5%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,101.28 (111.6%), Expenditures $7,251.44 (99.9%). The January 2026 payables to date in the amount of $13,788.21. Treasurer Johnson reported that she has further corrections to make to the budget for the beginning of the 2025 year.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
- Minutes of December 9, 2025 Regular Meeting
- December Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & January Accounts Payables
- Designate Union State Bank as official bank
- Designate Fort Scott Tribune as official newspaper
- Resolution 2026-0112-01 GAAP Waiver
- Destruction of records for 2015 and prior
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
City Superintendent Bobby Rich informed the Council that several water and gas meters are in need of replacement. The Council discussed the price differences between purchasing new versus used meters, the total number of water and gas meters currently in use, and the average number requiring replacement each year. The Council instructed Superintendent Rich that the City should plan to replace 15 water meters and 12 gas meters annually. The Council further advised Superintendent Rich to conduct an inventory of meters currently in stock and to provide updated pricing information at the next Council meeting.
Clerk Arnold asked the Council if the city was interested in our yearly rabies clinic on the last Saturday in March. Council advised to go ahead with the clinic.
Arnold also asked if the city wanted to provide a donation to the SOS party.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 5-0, to approve a $100 donation to the SOS party.
Arnold informed the council of the upcoming 2026 Municipal Court Clerks Conference and the CCMFOA Spring Conference both in March and inquired if the city would approve her to attend both conferences.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0, to approve City Clerk Haley Arnold to attend 2026 Municipal Court Clerks Orientation and Conference on March 26th and 27th.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0, to approve City Clerk Haley Arnold to attend the CCMFOA Spring Conference on March 11-13th.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Knight – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – nothing
Councilwoman Pemberton – nothing
Councilwoman Pritchett – nothing
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – Informed the Council of an upcoming water rate increase from Consolidated Rural Water District #2. The Council was advised that Carey Spoon, the SEK Regional Planning Commissioner, will attend the February Council meeting to discuss potential grant opportunities. Jurgensen stated that one of the primary focuses for a grant would be the cleaning, camera inspection, and lining of the City’s sewer system lines. Discussion followed regarding possible project costs and the types of grants that may be available.
OLD BUSINESS
FEMA Flooding– Marbery Concrete Inc is scheduled to resume work on Wednesday, weather permitting. The crew will be working on Union Street, 1st Street, and Clay Street as they continue with the remainder of the project. During discussion of the ditches at 1st and Clay Streets, Council agreed that contractor should proceed with any work necessary to complete the project.
NEW BUSINESS
Executive session not needed.
Moved by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 8:18PM.
Amended Ft.Scott Commission Agenda
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
February 3, 2026 – 6:00 P.M.
AMENDED
- Call to Order
- Pledge of Allegiance
III. Invocation
- Approval of Agenda
- Consent Agenda
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1401-A – Expense Approval Report –
Payment Dates of January 15, 2026 – January 27, 2026 – $420,842.25
- Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of January 20, 2026
- Public Comment
VII. Appearances
- Stephen Mitchell – IT Update
VIII. Unfinished Business – ADDITION OF ITEM
- Status update of Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 602 S. Barbee – L. Kruger
- New Business
Public Hearings:
- Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 9-2026 RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 310 N. CLEVELAND – L. Kruger
- Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 10-2026 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 601 S. LITTLE – L. Kruger
Action Items:
- Status update of 18 S. HOLBROOK – Tabled from November 18, 2025 – L. Kruger
REMOVAL OF ITEM
- Consideration of changes to Ordinance No. 3793 – AN ORDINANCE REGULATING PUBLIC OFFENSES WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KSANSAS; INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE FOR KANSAS CITIES, 41ST EDITION, PROVIDING CERTAIN PENALTIES AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3749 – K. Salsbury
- Approval to go out for bids for Cape Seal Project – B. Matkin
- Discussion – City lake properties – B. Matkin
- Discussion – Contractor Licensing – B. Matkin
- Discussion – Condition of Horton Street – J. Dickman
- Reports and Comments
- Adjourn
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
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KS Total January Tax Collections Are $988.2 Million
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Agenda for the Ft. Scott City Commission on Feb. 3
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
February 3, 2026 – 6:00 P.M.
I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Invocation
IV. Approval of Agenda
V. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1401-A – Expense Approval Report –
Payment Dates of January 14, 2026 – January 30, 2026 – $
B. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of January 20, 2026
VI. Public Comment
VII. Appearances
A. Stephen Mitchell – IT Update
VIII. Unfinished Business
IX. New Business
Public Hearings:
A. Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 9-2026 RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE
REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE
AT 310 N. CLEVELAND – L. Kruger
B. Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 10-2026 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE
REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE
AT 601 S. LITTLE – L. Kruger
Action Items:
A. Status update of 18 S. HOLBROOK – Tabled from November 18, 2025 – L. Kruger
B. Consideration of changes to Ordinance No. 3793 – AN ORDINANCE REGULATING
PUBLIC OFFENSES WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FORT
SCOTT, KSANSAS; INCORPORATING BY REFERENCE THE UNIFORM PUBLIC
OFFENSE CODE FOR KANSAS CITIES, 41 ST EDITION, PROVIDING CERTAIN
PENALTIES AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3749 – K. Salsbury
C. Approval to go out for bids for Cape Seal Project – B. Matkin
D. Discussion – City lake properties – B. Matkin
E. Discussion – Contractor Licensing – B. Matkin
F. Discussion – Condition of Horton Street – J. Dickman
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X. Reports and Comments
Unapproved Minutes of the Ft. Scott City Commission on Jan. 20
CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes of January 20, 2026 Regular
Meeting
A meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall,
123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.
The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy
Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, Julie Buchta and Mayor Kathryn Salsbury were present.
In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Lisa
Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering &
Inspections LLC, Ben Hart/BakerTilly, Dave Bruner/FSFD Chief, Lindsay Madison/Chamber of
Commerce, Amanda Lancaster/DBB, Inc., and Gregg Motley/4th District Bourbon County Commissioner.
SALSBURY led the Pledge of Allegiance and BUCHTA said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City,
the Citizens, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda
MOTION: DANCER moved to approve the agenda as presented. WELLS seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consent Agenda – Amendment with addition of Item D
A. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1400-A – Expense Approval Report –
Payment Dates of January 1, 2026 – January 13, 2026 – $440,300.54
B. Approval of 2026 Cereal Malt Beverage (CMB) License For Consumption on the
Premises: Fifth Wheel Tavern – 206 N. Humbolt St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
C. Approval of 2026 Occupation License – Precious Metals Dealer – Hulberts Jewelry
LLC/Bartelsmeyer Jewelry – 22 N. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
D. Approval of 2026 Occupation License – Precious Metals Dealer – Fort Scott Gun &
Pawn – 1402 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
E. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection LLC – Invoice 18373 – EEI Project
No. 25-12 East National Phase I – Design – 60% Complete – $15,525.00
F. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of January 6, 2026
G. December Financials
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve the amended Consent Agenda. SALSBURY
seconded. SALSBURY, BUCHTA, VAN HOECKE and DANCER voted yes. WELLS voted
no.
MOTION CARRIED 4-1.
Public Comment – No public comment.
Appearances –
Amanda Lancaster – 2024 Audit and Consideration to Approve Invoice 176143 – Certified Audit
of Records and Preparation of Audit Report for the Year Ended December 21, 2024 – $20,200.00
Minutes of January 20, 2026 Fort Scott City Commission Regular
Meeting
2
LANCASTER was delayed.
MOTION: DANCER moved to push item (7) down until Ms. Lancaster can make an
appearance before the Commission. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Unfinished Business
Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 8-2026 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, ENDORSING PARTICIPATION IN THE KANSAS MAIN
STREET PROGRAM AND DESIGNATING THE LOCAL MAIN STREET ORGANIZATION –
Lindsay Madison
MOTION: WELLS motioned to move forward with the City’s version of the resolution, No. 8-
2026 with the inclusion of the City’s historic preservation committee as a signature on the
form. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 5-2026 A RESOLUTION FOR EXEMPTION FROM
GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRACTICES (GAAP) UNDER K.S.A. 1120A – Ben
Hart
Discussion was had about the differences between GAAP and Regulatory Cash Basis (KMAAG)
Audits and accounting procedures, fixed asset inventory and depreciation schedule. Greg Motley
contributed to the discussion.
VAN HOECKE requested a Point of Order and that Amanda Lancaster be allowed to make her
appearance before a vote is taken on the matter.
LANCASTER presented her results from the 2024 audit for the City of Fort Scott.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to pay the invoice for DBB for $20,200.00 for our audit
report from year ended December 31, 2024. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Further discussion was had regarding the possibility of doing a GAAP audit.
SALSBURY called the question.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 5-2026 A RESOLUTION FOR
EXEMPTION FROM GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRACTICES OR GAAP
UNDER K.S.A. 1120A. SALSBURY seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, BUCHTA, and
VAN HOECKE voted yes. WELLS voted no.
MOTION CARRIED 4-1.
Minutes of January 20, 2026 Fort Scott City Commission Regular
Meeting
3
ACTION: HART will prepare a proposal for providing a depreciation schedule and the other
things that would meet the needs of the concerns expressed.
Consideration setting a date for a Budget Workshop with BakerTilly
Work Session set for April 21, 2026, at 5:00PM at City Hall before the Regular Commission
Meeting.
Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 6-2026 RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR
REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 1403 E. OAK –
Tabled November 18, 2025, for (30) days – Previously presented as Resolution No. 37-2025
KRUGER reported that the owner is currently working on the house, but may have stopped for
the winter. The house is still open, but the foundation (footing and a concrete retaining wall) has
been laid. Work has been done, but it is still in a state of disrepair. He has faith that it will
eventually be completed.
MOTION: WELLS moved to table this again until such a time as Officer Kruger has an
opportunity to bring more information and leave it up to his discretion. DANCER seconded.
MOTION PASSED 5-0.
ACTION: KRUGER will reach out to the owner about closing up the structure and report back to
the Commission.
Status Reports on Pending Demolition Proceedings
1626 E. Pine – KRUGER stated the owner has completely cleaned up the property, painted the
house and are doing everything that he has asked them to do so far. He believes the progress
justifies removing the placard from the house.
1815 E. Oak – KRUGER stated that it was requested by a person of interest at the public
hearing, that he be given time to get the house in probate. However, he has been in and out of
jail since the time was granted. This person does not have any legal authority for the house but
had agreed to board up windows and doors but nothing has transpired. The neighbor expressed
interest in purchasing the property when it goes to the Land Bank. The owner is in arrears on
taxes. KRUGER requested that the Commission reconsider the hold they put on the house and
that it be brought back up for demolition.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE motioned to move forward with resolving the unsafe home that
was up for repair or removal at 1815 E. Oak. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
New Business
Action Items:
Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 7-2026 RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH
REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE(S) AT 406 S.
HORTON, FORT SCOTT, KS 66701
Minutes of January 20, 2026 Fort Scott City Commission Regular
Meeting
4
FARMER left the meeting 6:58PM
KRUGER reported that no taxes have been paid since 2021. He has been trying for over (1) year
to get the owner who lives in California to do maintenance on this house. It has been vacant and
currently the roof has started to cave in on the house and it needs to come down. He gave further
description of the condition of the house.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 7-2026 A RESOLUTION AND
NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS
STRUCTURE AT 406 S. HORTON. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration to purchase Water Truck
MATKIN requested the purchase of a water truck for asphalting. It is on the CIP. He presented
the comparables and recommended the model from Niece Products – 2022 demo model, 17,200
miles, $65,850.00 plus $1,000.00 credit toward a trade in for a piece of iron in the back of the
barn. A warranty is included.
FARMER returned to the meeting 7:01PM
MOTION: BUCHTA moved to approve the purchase of the water truck from Niece
Products with a thank you to Al Niece. VAN HOECKE seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Discussion to adopt International Building Code (IBC) 2018 – L. Dillon
DILLON requested that the City upgrade from 2012 to 2018 to increase their chances for grant
awards. Discussion was had regarding the differences between the (2) codes. The fire code
would be the biggest impact but the advantages or increasing our ISO has benefits such as
homeowners receiving better insurance rates. BRUNER explained the ISO rating. The next
evaluation for ISO will be in 2027. By upgrading the code, the hope is to bring the City’s ISO
down from the current (3). Grandfathering under 2018 applies if renovation is under 50%.
FARMER added that it is important to remain current. BRUNER explained that the state fire
marshal is headed toward adopting IBC 2024 in the near future, but legislation will take longer.
Reports and Comments
City Manager:
– GO Bond being discussed with GilmoreBell
– IT will be at the next meeting for an update
– Moody Building – for sale, still monitoring
– 118 E. Wall – for sale, no updates, time to consider moving forward
– February meetings – discuss Contractor Licenses and City Lake Properties.
City Engineer:
– E. National update – working on preliminary plans
– Wall Street traffic control plan in works
– Consider sludge removal this year
Minutes of January 20, 2026 Fort Scott City Commission Regular
Meeting
5
– Water/Sewer Rate analysis needed before budget season
– Pre-construction meeting for Davis Lift Station project – start date February 16, 2026
Commissioner Wells:
– KDOT agreement for HWY54
– Fitness park timetable
– County moratorium for industrial and commercial business status
–
Commissioner Van Hoecke:
– City Clerk to put December 2, 2025 minutes on website
– 118 E. Wall – ready to move forward for resolution
– Cold weather awareness
Commissioner Dancer:
– Comments on accounting and demands for GAAP audit
– 911 outage question
– Hay bale obstacle course
Commissioner Buchta:
– Timken and Valu buildings update – appreciate City’s persistence
– Comments on GAAP audit
Commissioner Salsbury:
– Working on Ordinance 3793 – put on next agenda
– Cold weather awareness
Adjourn
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:33PM. DANCER seconded.
JANUARY 20, 2026, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:33PM.
Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis/City Clerk
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
January 30, 2026
The third week of the session was very unusual. It started with fast tracking House Substitute for Senate Bill (SB) 244 that requires every multi-person restroom, locker room, changing room, or shower in a public building to be designated for use by only one biological sex, with narrow exceptions for emergencies, maintenance, and children under 9. It also redefines “gender” to mean biological sex at birth, renders any birth certificate or driver license gender marker issued before July 1, 2026, that conflicts with that definition invalid, and obliges the state to issue corrective notices and new documents. Violations by governmental entities would attract civil penalties ranging from $25,000 to $125,000 per day, while individuals could face fines and misdemeanor charges. It was frustrating to lawmakers who were concerned with the way the bill was worked. The core grievance was that the legislature bypassed the usual committee hearings and moved the bill straight to the floor, leaving many feeling the process was rushed. It passed both chambers with a supermajority and is on its way to the Governor’s desk. The Senate voted 30 to 9. I voted yes.
Illegal Aliens, a person who is unlawfully present in the United States, would be blocked from receiving state or local taxpayer funded benefits, including in-state tuition discounts at post-secondary schools. It also amends criminal procedure law to require immigration status verification for noncitizen defendants and creates a rebuttable presumption that an illegal alien is a flight risk when setting appearance bonds. There was an attempt to remove the in-state tuition during floor debate. The amendment failed. SB 254 passed the Senate 30 to 9. I voted yes. The bill is on its way to the House.
Charlie Kirk Free Speech Day October 14, Mr. Kirk’s birthday, will be recognized each year as free speech day if SCR 1615 passes the House. SCR 1615 also condemns the assassination of Charlie Kirk and offers condolences to his family. It urges the Governor to join the Legislature in marking the day and encourages Kansans to celebrate by exercising free speech and civil discourse. I voted yes with a final vote in the Senate 30 to 8, sending it to the House.
Trafficking and sexual‑exploitation laws would be tightened, with all fines sent to the state victim assistance fund if CCR 2347 becomes law. The measure would also expand the “criminal use of a financial card” to cover unauthorized, altered, or stolen gift card information by imposing steep penalties. It also would make it unlawful to use a laser pointer to harm a person. It passed the Senate 39 to 0 and the House 119 to 4. It’s anticipated that the Governor will sign CCR 2347 into law.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn