Category Archives: Government

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

USD 234 Special Meeting for Budget Hearings on August 22

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NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF
BOARD OF EDUCATION
August 17,2022
A special meeting o f the Board of Education, Unified School District No. 234, Bourbon County, Kansas, is hereby called to be held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, the twenty-second day of August, 2022, at the Board of Education Office.

The purpose of the meeting is a Revenue Neutral Tax Rate Hearing at 5:30 p.m.; approval of Resolution 22- 07 – Expressing the Property Taxation Policy of USD 234 Fort Scott with Respect to
Exceeding the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate for Financing the Annual Budget for 2022-23;
a Budget Hearing at 5:45 p.m.; adoption of the 2022-23 Budget; approval of Resolution 22-08 – Local Option Budget Percentage; approval of the revised 1,1l6 hour calendar for
the 2022-23 school year; approval of a MOU with Greenbush for an interim special education director; an executive session pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA; and approval of the Personnel Report.


By order of the President of the Board of Education of Unified School District No. 234, Bourbon County, Kansas.

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BOARD OF EDUCATION SPECIAL MEETING
AUGUST 22, 2022 – 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA SUMMARY
Call Meeting to Order
Flag Salute
Open the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate Hearing (Action ltem)
3.1 Close the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate Hearing (Action ltem)
3.2 Approval of Resolution 22-07 – Expressing the Property Taxation Policy of USD 234
Fort Scott with Respect to Exceeding the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate for Financing the
Annual Budget for 2022-23 (Action Item)
5:45 p.m. Open the Budget Hearing (Action Item)
4.1 Close the Budget Hearing (Action ltem)
4.2 Adoption of the 2022-23 Budget (Action Item)
4.3 Adopt Resolution 22-08 – Local Option Budget Percentage (Action Item)
Approve revised 1,116-hour calendar for the 202243 school year (Action ltem)
Approve MOU with Greenbush for an interim special education director (Action Item)
Personnel Matters
7.1 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)
7.2 Exit Executive Session
7.3 Approval of Personnel Report (Action ltem)
Adjourn Meeting
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Unified School District 234

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, Government, Health Care

CHC Update From Krista Postai

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Krista Postai. Submitted.

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas is moving forward on the renovation of the former Price Chopper building on South Main.

“We are waiting on (City of Fort Scott) building permits before moving forward on the Price Chopper building, so there is nothing major to report,” CEO and President of CHC/SEK Krista Postai, said. “Apparently, the engineer is on vacation.”

Update later in the day from Postai: “We were issued a temporary 90-day-permit yesterday and we’re back to work,” she said.

The land given CHC on the west side of the former Mercy building, which they had made plans to build a new facility on, is being given back to Bourbon County who owns the building.

“Regarding the land,” she said. “Which is basically the large parking lot behind the hospital plus the helipad, we were told by the county, it would be needed by whoever opted to assume responsibility for the hospital. Our Board agreed to exchange the land, which actually cost us about $125,000 in legal and platting fees, for our remaining rent on our clinic in the hospital. We do understand that was approved by the county commission and they would be in touch with us to finalize the agreement.”

“Once we have the transfer formalized, it will go to the CHC/SEK Board for final approval, Postai said. “It was suggested to us that there is another potential group interested in reopening the hospital now that Noble has moved on.”

Commissioner Beth Comment on The Former Mercy Building

Bourbon County Commissioner Clifton Beth said the county is “still trying to engage with several entities to do something with the building. We’ve been doing this for two years. I want to make sure we have an emergency room in Bourbon County and sustainable health care.”

Recent Mammogram Walk-In

“We had a record number of women get a mammogram at our Walk-In event from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on July 27th in Ft. Scott,” she said. “Ninety-one women over age 40  ‘walked in’ and received a 3D mammogram regardless of ability to pay. CHC/SEK continued the effort August 2 and 3rd at their Pittsburg clinic. The goal is to increase the number of women who have had mammograms in southeast Kansas – which falls far below the state and national averages.”

Jobs at CHC

The following are the current list of job openings in Fort Scott for CHC:

 

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Minutes of August 9

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The unofficial minutes of the Uniontown City Council

The Regular Council Meeting on August 9, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger (7:04), Josh Hartman, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Raymond George and Randy Rathbun (Uniontown Ruritan), Bill Delich, Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Jason Thompson and Josh Bales (Green Environmental Services), Mary Pemberton, Carey Spoon, SEK Regional Planning Commission, and Amanda Lancaster, Diehl Banwart Bolton, CPA, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Open Bids for street mill & asphalt project – Bettis Asphalt & Construction Base Bid $127,287.85, Alternate $70,950.15, total $198,238.00.  Killough Construction Base Bid less mill/pack on Seventh St/Sherman St $60,813.24.  Due to one bid not having a complete base bid and not comparable to the other bid received and the other bid was over our budgeted amount for the project, all bids were rejected.  The Council will consider asking for line item bids in the future as they also consider other funding options.  Clerk Johnson will send letter to Killough Construction.

 

Open RFPs for Trash Service – The City is required to follow the procedure laid out in KSA 12-2036.  The procedure was explained by Clerk Johnson.  No RFPs were opened.  Green Environmental Services was given their unopened proposal and Clerk Johnson will return the other with a letter of explanation.  Clerk Johnson will send out a supplemental newsletter with this information.

 

2022 Financial Audit presentation – Due to a misunderstanding regarding the Gas Utility Loan and collection of gas surcharge to repay loan, the Gas Utility Fund expenditures were over budget.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to accept 2022 Financial Audit as presented

 

Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Mr George asked the Council is they wanted lever handles in and out or a push bar or the inside.  Lever handles were selected.  Doors will open out and have programmable locks.  Ruritan would like for it to be open to the public during the day.  He is meeting with electrician tomorrow.  There will be a fan in the attic area and can lights.

Randy Rathbun gave a presentation for the proposed addition of a “fire truck” in the playground in honor of Dale Jackson.  Council was receptive of the addition.

 

SEK Regional Planning Commission, Carey Spoon – State of Kansas had a summit last month regarding the Hub they have set up to administer the funds from BIL.  Most federal funding is wanting regional projects and an action plan would have to be submitted before any funding for the implementation could be applied for.  She gave a handout to each person at the table with information explaining Safe Streets 4 All.  CDBG is not accepting applications for street projects this year.  They are not very familiar with KDOT funding sources but will try to help us as much as possible.  They are having a meeting August 23, 11-1 (in person or zoom) on BIL funding.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

Mary Pemberton gave an update on the progress of their rehab.  Scheduled to pour sidewalk next week.  Codes Officer Coyan will meet with her again.  Inside should be completed by end of August and all work should be completed by end of October.  She also reminded the Council of the Bourbon County REDI vision meeting on August 23, 6PM, at River Room above Luther’s BBQ in Fort Scott.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger presented the July 2022 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $371,765.26, Receipts $28,432.97, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $27,542.60, Checking Account Closing Balance $369,629.63. Bank Statement Balance $372,396.19, including Checking Account Interest of $1.43, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $2,766.56, Reconciled Balance $369,629.63.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,100.97, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,593.23, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,381.43, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $446,705.26. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $208.02, and Utility CDs $168.40 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $376.42.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of July 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  July Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Total Transfers of $3,026.00.  Net Loss for the month of July $2,135.63, Year-to-Date Net Income $45.886.13.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $64,623.57 (61.3%), Expenditures $63,375.25 (48.5%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $20,413.55 (57.2%), Expenditures $22,756.67 (55.5%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $87,681.63 (62.8%), Expenditures $84,919.58 (34.6%); General Fund YTD Revenue $100,488.77 (78.2%), Expenditures $88,140.99 (53.3%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $5625.70 (82.1%), Expenditures $1,041.18 (9.8%).  The August 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $40,671.74 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of July 12, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent Rich reminded Council he has two weeks vacation time that has to be taken before October 29, then gets three weeks.  He is to take one week at a time.

KCC Pipeline Safety Seminar is October 26-27 in Manhattan.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to allow Bobby Rich to attend KCC Pipline Safety Seminar in Manhattan on October 26-27

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported the deadline for Smith Estate is September 1.  City Attorney suggested preparing resolution for condemnation.  It was suggested to have a structural engineer inspect the property prior to preparing the resolution.

 

Clerk Johnson informed the council that HBCAT needs budget numbers for the placemaking project.  She will add a survey to the supplemental newsletter for community input of what exercise equipment to purchase and/or build pickleball court.

KMEA/KMGA Annual Conference is September 29-30 in Wichita.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to allow Sally Johnson to attend KMEA/KMGA Annual Conference in Wichita on September 29-30

 

We received a letter from FEMA regarding the 30-day data submission notification for the draft flood insurance rate map (FIRM) for Bourbon County.  The draft shows decreased potential for flooding and no special flood hazard areas in the city limits.

There have been requests for fall citywide cleanup.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to have a fall citywide cleanup August 22-26, 8AM-8PM with dumpsters removed when full.

 

Clerk Johnson will also add this and a reminder about school starting to the supplemental newsletter.

The November regularly scheduled council meeting is on election day.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to reschedule the November regular council meeting on November 15, 2022, 7PM

 

The HP color printer/copier has quit.  RTS Electronics said parts are not available and would recommend replacing with a laser color printer instead of an inkjet, more cost effective.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, approved 4-0 to have Clerk Johnson get a new color printer/copier

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – He attended the KMGA Regional Meeting in Humboldt on July 14 (handouts in packets).  BBCO REDI Vision Meeting, August 23, 6PM, River Room, Fort Scott.  He also asked if the dog issue had been resolved.  Clerk Johnson stated that she informed Animal Control Officer Binford and that the dogs that were chasing the kids were back at home and tied up in different areas than before, so dog owner is aware they were loose but she hasn’t been able to connect with him yet.

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – received a complaint of a property owner being injured while mowing the easement ditch on his property on Seventh St.  Council asked Rich to look at ditch and talk to property owner.

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – Two lights out in park, northeast corner and west side.  Rich spoke to Evergy today and they said it could be 10 business days before they are repaired/replaced.

 

OLD BUSINESS

American Rescue Plan Act update – Council directed Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan to get bids for the ADA bathroom upgrade at City Hall.  Also asked Johnson to amend the BBCO REDI grant application for this project instead of the public bathroom project.

 

2023 Budget, Gas Surcharge/Loan – Budget has been reworked to add gas surcharge revenue and loan payments.  Johnson also revised the 2022 budget to include the gas surcharge revenue and loan payments.  At this time, it does not appear that we will need to republish.  She asked Council to review the reworked budget and let her know by the end of the week if something needs amended.  She will send notice of hearings to Tribune next week.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:28PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 9:28PM.

 

Motion by Esslinger, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to increase base pay for Animal Control Officer to $12/hr

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 9:29PM

Bourbon County, Government, Health Care

Local Health Officer on COVID-19 and Polio

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Rebecca Johnson, SEKMCHD Director.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment just announced to local health agencies that they will be adopting the CDC’s “public guidance” for COVID-19, according to Becky Johnson, Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Department Administrator/SEK Local Health Officer.

“They’re reviewing K-12 and healthcare workers COVID-19 guidance and plan to release it at a later date. Here is a link that discusses the CDC’s recommendations: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/p0811-covid-guidance.html ” she said.

“Also, this article was just brought to my attention. It is from the CDC regarding the Polio case in New York: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7133e2.htm?s_cid=mm7133e2_e&ACSTrackingID=USCDC_921-DM87893&ACSTrackingLabel=MMWR%20Early%20Release%20-%20Vol.%2071%2C%20August%2016%2C%202022&deliveryName=USCDC_921-DM87893″ she said.

“At this time we are not considered at risk for Polio, but would recommend the Polio vaccine to those who are not vaccinated. Those individuals 2 months of age and older may be vaccinated for Polio.”

“I encourage our residents to be current on all recommended vaccinations for their age group,” Johnson said.

SEKMHD is located at 524 S. Lowman in Ft. Scott. She can be reached at (620)223-4464 or fax (620)223-1686 or

[email protected]

Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Kansans in the Office

Capitol Tour
Steven Attig of Fairway

Jennifer Attig of Fairway

Holden Attig of Fairway

Miles Attig of Fairway

Kirby Brunk of Arma

Kerri Brunk of Arma

Addison Brunk of Arma

Brody Brunk of Arma

Rani Charles of Overland Park

Sharon Charles of Overland Park

Joshua Charles of Overland Park

Michele Doncho of Harper

Rustin Denton of Harper

Emily Hanna of Leawood

Arthur Neuburger of Lawrence

Connie Neuburger of Lawrence

Andy Newkirk of Manhattan

Sarah Newkirk of Manhattan

Charles Ratnasamy of Overland Park

Michael Robertson of Overland Park

Mary Robertson of Overland Park

Dominic Scavuzzo of Leawood

Ryan Talbott of Lawrence

Jennifer Talbott of Lawrence

Ava Talbott of Lawrence

Nora Talbott of Lawrence

Charles Urban of Atchison

Michelle Urban of Atchison

Brande Vogele of Harper

 

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One Year Anniversary of the Fall of Kabul
One year ago, the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan became a moment of lasting shame. The images of Afghans left behind at the Kabul airport, fearful of the Taliban’s return to power, and the loss of 13 American servicemembers from a terrorist attack remain vivid in our thoughts.

Today, thousands of Afghans who put their lives at risk to help American and coalition troops remain in danger in Afghanistan and many who did get out are stuck in other countries waiting to start their lives anew. The rights of Afghan women have been rolled back, including denying girls a full education, and Afghans under the Taliban regime are suffering from crippling poverty and hunger. This is heartbreaking after the United States invested twenty years in Afghanistan, trillions of dollars and the lives of her sons and daughters. Those who gave their lives and all who served in Afghanistan to fight terrorism deserve our gratitude and ongoing care.

Americans deserve answers as to how the withdrawal could be so disastrous and how the Afghan government we supported could collapse so easily. Last year, I co-sponsored the Afghanistan War Commission Act to establish a nonpartisan, independent commission to examine the war in its totality, which was enacted into law. I am awaiting the work of this commission and the findings they will produce to ensure that what happened last year never happens again.

SIGNED INTO LAW: SFC Heath Robinson PACT Act
On Wednesday, the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 was signed into law. This legislation delivers on a promise we made to our veterans that if someone serves in our military, we will take care of them and provide them with the benefits they have earned through their service. From Vietnam veterans suffering from Agent Orange to the 3.5 million post-9/11 veterans exposed to burn pits during their deployments, our nation’s veterans and their families will no longer have to fear being turned away from the VA for illnesses connected to toxic exposure. The SFC Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act will make good on our promise to take care of our veterans by delivering all generations of toxic-exposed veterans their earned health care and benefits under the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Thank you to SFC Heath Robinson’s family and all the veterans and advocates who worked tirelessly to get this long-overdue bill passed through Congress and signed into law. Today would not have been possible without their input, commitment and dedication.

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Joining Kansas Cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs for Lunch
This week, I joined Kansas cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs for lunch. Days like these serve as a reminder that Kansas produces smart, hard-working and civic-minded individuals who want to give back to their country. As a U.S. Senator, one of the most meaningful responsibilities I have is nominating young Kansans for our service academies and helping them achieve their dreams of service to our country.

It was great to have lunch with several of the cadets that I had the honor of nominating to the academy – Mason Vasta of Overland Park, Tyler Simms of Olathe, Cody Savage of Leavenworth, Zachary Bollinger of Hesston, Remington Stiles of Topeka, Aaron Eakins of Wichita, Cale Curtis of Wichita, Jack Arnold of Topeka and Taylor Ellis of Lenexa.

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Applauding the Signing of the CHIPS and Science Act into Law
This week, the CHIPS and Science Act was signed into law. This legislation invests resources into manufacturing semiconductors and other critical technology in the United States, authorizes investments in key technology areas and works to rebalance federal research investments to the middle of the country.

A strong economy will help us produce the technology and resources we need to compete successfully in the decades to come. This legislation invests in businesses around the country to produce key technologies, such as semiconductors, here at home, creating new jobs and boosting American manufacturing. As aggression from China and Russia makes clear, it is vital to safeguard our supply chains from any disruptions. This bill is a key step in rebuilding our economy to be stronger and independent from our adversaries.

Touring Rooks County Health Center
On Tuesday, I visited my hometown of Plainville to tour Rooks County Health Center and meet with the center’s new CEO, Stephanie Bjournstad. During our meeting, we discussed the hospital’s day-to-day operations and the many services they offer to Kansans, including a walk-in clinic, testing services, physical therapy, urgent care, speech therapy, labor and delivery care and more. I also had the opportunity to meet with members of the Rooks County Health Center Board to discuss the challenges they face working in rural Kansas health care, especially during the pandemic and in its aftermath. Our rural health centers provide quality care for residents in the surrounding communities and region, even in the most challenging of times. Thank you to Stephanie Bjornstad for the warm welcome, and to Charlie Allphin, Jeff VanDyke, Jon Voss, Chuck Comeau and Dr. Mike Oller for taking the time to offer input.

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Speaking at Amber Wave Ribbon Cutting
In Phillipsburg this week, I spoke at the ribbon cutting and reveal for Amber Wave which is set to be North America’s largest wheat protein plant. I toured this facility earlier in the year, and it is great to see the work being done to transform this plant into a leading ingredient, feed and low-carbon fuel producer. Biofuels offer tremendous opportunity for job growth as an industry contributing $2.2 billon to our state’s economy each year. This $200 million investment will create 60 full-time jobs and drive economic growth in the surrounding area. Additionally, this facility will have the capacity to process roughly 10% of the wheat grown in Kansas when fully operational.

It is great to see Summit Agricultural Group choosing to invest in Kansas, and I look forward to seeing this industry grow in the future. Thank you to all who joined for this announcement, including Bruce Rastetter, CEO of Summit Agricultural Group, Justin Kirchhoff, President of Summit Ag Investors, Dave VanderGriend, CEO of ICM, Inc of Colwich, Jon Sargent, President of Todd & Sargent of Ames, Iowa, Elaine Bowers, Kansas State Senator, Rick Billinger, Kansas State Senator, Ken Rahjes, Kansas State House Representative, JD Schlieman, Executive Chairman of Amber Wave, Randy Cimorelli, CEO of Amber Wave and Kevin Bogenreif, Senior Director of Summit Ag Investors.

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Sheridan County Townhall
This week, I hosted a townhall in Sheridan County. It was good to see many familiar faces and talk with Sheridan County residents about the issues that are important to them, as well as the challenges they are facing. My conversations with Kansans help inform the work I do in Washington, D.C. Thank you to Karl Pratt, Executive Director of Sheridan County Economic Development Corporation, for hosting this townhall, as well as those at the Sheridan County Community Foundation. I also want to thank all the local leaders who took part in this discussion.

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Touring Solomon Valley Manor
Earlier this week, I toured the site of the new Solomon Valley Manor nursing home now being built in Stockton. The existing nursing home facility provides quality care and health services for seniors in the surrounding community, and it is great to see the construction of this new center which will improve quality of life for the residents of this home. Thank you to Solomon Valley Manor administrator Amanda Atkisson for giving me the tour, as well as City Commissioner Bob Becker for joining us and providing additional input on the ways in which this center serves Kansans in the area.

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Touring Lil’ Hawks Village Daycare
On Wednesday, I toured Lil’ Hawks Village Daycare, a daycare facility currently under construction in Grainfield. Currently, there are no daycare facilities operating in Gove and Park, allowing this center to fill a much-needed void for childcare for the community. This daycare was made possible through collaboration with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, USD 292, the Grainfield Community Development Committee (GCDC) and the Gove County Community Foundation. The center was appropriately named Lil’ Hawks Village Daycare after the saying, “it takes a village to raise a child.” It was great to see the work being done by the community to make this daycare facility a reality. I want to thank GCDC Chair Kay Haffner and Lil’ Hawks Village Daycare Director Ashley Schultz for hosting me and for their work investing in young Kansans. Thank you also to J.R. Moses, Todd Flinn, Steve Watts, Duane Vollbracht, Marilyn Mong, Shari Burks, Becky Tucker and her children Larsen, Westen and Colten, Darren Racette, Harvey Heier and Bryant Briggs for joining us.

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Touring SurePoint Ag Systems
Also on Wednesday, I visited SurePoint Ag Systems, a farm equipment manufacturer in Atwood, to tour the plant and learn more about its contribution to the Kansas Agriculture industry. SurePoint provides farmers with custom solutions for the control and application of fertilizer, seed and farming chemicals. I appreciate SurePoint’s commitment to improving agricultural technology innovation and for working for more than a decade to provide reliable equipment to Kansas farmers. Thank you to CEO Josh Wolters and Founders Blaine Ginther and Matt Wolters for organizing the visit, and to the many members of the SurePoint team who joined me on my tour of the facility.

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Visiting Quinter
This week, I also visited Quinter to meet with Kansans there and discuss the issues that are important to them. It was great to see many familiar faces during my stops in town to Gove County Farm Bureau, Cooksey’s Appliances, U.S. Post Office, The Bank, Ray’s Pharmacy and Equity Bank.

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Touring Citizens Medical Center
Today, I toured the Citizens Medical Center in Colby and met with hospital leadership to discuss the issues and challenges they are currently facing in their work to provide health care services to residents of Northwest Kansas. During our meeting, it was great to hear about the steps being taken to construct a new hospital in the future and to expand their child care center to meet the needs of the community. Thank you to Citizens Health CEO David McCorkle, City of Colby Manager Ron Alexander and President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Sean Hankin for hosting me during this visit and for providing valuable insight during our conversation.

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Meeting with CEO of U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee Sarah Hirshland
This weekend, I met with Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC). During our meeting, we discussed the efforts by the USOPC to support our athletes and make certain they have the opportunity to play the sports they love in a safe environment. It was great to speak with Sarah about the work currently being done to protect and empower Team USA’s athletes. I remain committed to supporting our players and working alongside the USOPC to make certain these athletes have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed in the future.

Jabari Wamble Nominated to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals
On Tuesday, the President nominated Jabari Wamble, an Assistant United States Attorney, to serve on the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, which has jurisdiction over Kansas.

Providing advice and consent of a judicial nominee is one of the most important responsibilities of the United States Senate. Congratulations to Jabari Wamble on his nomination to the Federal bench. I previously met Mr. Wamble and discussed with him his service in the U.S. Attorney’s office and his education at the University of Kansas. Mr. Wamble has demonstrated legal skill and interest in justice throughout his professional career.

I look forward to learning more about Mr. Wamble’s views, including how he sees the role of a judge under the U.S. Constitution, in his upcoming Senate Judiciary Committee hearing.

Announcing Federal Investments Across Kansas
This week, I announced several federal investments across Kansas. These resources will go toward improving and expanding efforts in our state to continue making certain Kansas is a great place to live and visit.

$22 Million Grant for Old Smoky Hill Bridge Replacement in Salina
I joined Senator Roger Marshall in announcing a $22,112,620 Department of Transportation grant for the Smoky Hill River Bridge Replacement in Salina.

These resources will be used to replace seven bridges, construct bike and pedestrian trails, add a community plaza, rejuvenate six parks located along the river channel and bring outdoor recreational opportunities for citizens and visitors to enjoy. The river presents a unique opportunity for development and revitalization of a dormant asset and ecosystem within the city.

This investment will support economic development for the City of Salina, create high-paying jobs, improve the safety of existing transportation systems and expand the local transportation infrastructure. These federal resources will also help advance the revitalization of the Smoky Hill River recreational district located in the heart of Salina.

On April 4, 2022, I wrote the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg offering support for the grant application submitted by the City of Salina for the Old Smoky Hill River Bridge Replacement project.

$24 Million Grant for Flint Hills Trail
I announced a $24,821,705 Department of Transportation grant to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to be used for the Flint Hills Trail: Connecting Communities, Cultures and Landscapes project.

These resources will be used to construct approximately 40 miles of the Flint Hills Trail, nearly completing this 118-mile trail which will run through Morris, Dickinson, Miami, Franklin, Osage and Lyon counties. The project includes drainage improvements, pipes, culverts, bridges, base improvements, limestone surfacing, fences, gates, bollards, safety improvements and signage.

The Flint Hills Trail is a spot that has long been enjoyed by Kansans and tourists alike as a great way to experience the natural beauty of our state. These federal resources will improve and expand these trails and make certain future generations of Kansans can continue to enjoy the trails in the years to come.

Now Accepting 2022 Service Academy Applications
As students are preparing for the upcoming school year, I want to remind them of the opportunity to apply to a United States Service Academy. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, September 2, 2022. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board, which will take place on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Honored to Serve You in Washington
It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.

Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.

 

Very truly yours,
Jerry

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1511 East Fulton Terrace, Suite 1511-2
Garden City, KS 67846
Phone: (620) 260-3025		 Wichita
100 North Broadway,
Suite 210
Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: (316) 269-9257
Fax: (316) 269-9259		 Pittsburg
306 N. Broadway, Suite 125 (rear entrance of bank)
P.O. Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
Phone: (620) 232-2286
Fax: (620) 232-2284
Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building | Room 521 | Washington, D.C. 20501
Phone: (202) 224-6521 | Fax: (202) 228-6966

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Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of July 29

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July 29, 2022 Friday, 1:00pm


The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with two Commissioners (Jim Harris and Clifton Beth-via phone) and the County Clerk present.


Jim made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the
attorney-client relationship for possible litigation for 20 minutes returning at 1:23pm including 2 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks and Shane Walker. Jim made a motion to return to normal session at 1:23pm. Clifton seconded. All approved.


Justin asked that the commissioners approve up to $50,000 monies approved for a special internal investigation on certain funds that have been used by departments.
Clifton made a motion as stated by County Counselor Meeks. Jim seconded. All approved. At 1:27pm Jim made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Clifton seconded.
All approved.
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
(s) Jim Harris, Chairman
(s) Clifton Beth, Commissioner
___________________, Commissioner
ATTEST:
Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk
August 9, 2022, Approved Date

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Minutes of July 26

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July 26, 2022 Tuesday 9:00 am
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with two Commissioners (Clifton
Beth and Jim Harris) and the County Clerk present.
Clint and Rachel Walker, Matt Quick, Brian Wade, Keni Stark, Susan Bancroft, Shane
Walker, Jason Silvers, and Josh Jones were present for some or all of the meeting.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda. Move the approval of minutes to the
next meeting. Jim seconded. All approved.
Eric gave handouts from the LRSP meeting last week. That will give you an idea of
what was discussed in the meeting. Once we are done with the study that will give us
the opportunity to apply for several grants to make our roads safer. We have
completed asphalt at Hiatville and are now working on 55th and Yellowstone. We had
a rain delay today. Had a little breakdown with the roller last week and tried to
overnite some parts. They were supposed to be here Thursday and they got here
Monday. We are up and running again. We blasted at Blake Quarry last week 50,732
tons. They had about 12 or 15 holes and they didn’t have enough powder so they will
come back for those. The 2007 F750 that we bought we picked up this week. Has
28,000 actual miles mint condition. Very nice used truck. Four mowers are mowing
roadside and the sidearm mower. If we use the sidearm mower it is because the trees
are out in the road and it’s hitting our vehicles. We’ve had some complaints about us
cutting the trees but it is a safety issue. We replaced the three culverts on 225th and
are ready to do the asphalt when we get there. Jim stated that he worked the
Republican booth at the fair and had several people thank him for buying a bigger
crusher and making an attempt to take better care of our roads. Clifton made a
motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(2) for consultation with an attorney
for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-
client relationship including 2 commissioners, Eric Bailey, Justin Meeks, and Susan
Bancroft for possible litigation for 7 minutes at 6:15pm. Clifton made a motion to
return to normal session at 6:15pm with no action. Jim seconded. All approved.
Jim made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to
financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual
proprietorships including 2 commissioners, Justin Meeks, Shane Walker, and Susan
Bancroft for 10 minutes returning at 6:25pm. Clifton seconded. All approved.
Clifton made a motion to return to normal session with no action. Jim seconded. All
approved.
Justin Meeks requested an executive session. Clifton made a motion for executive
session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected
personnel to protect their privacy including 2 commissioners, Justin Meeks and Susan
Bancroft for job performance for 10 minutes returning at 6:38pm. Clifton made a
motion to return to normal session with no action. Jim seconded. All approved.

Shane Walker stated he has a letter that needs Chairman signature stating that we
pay dispatch and we give them all the 911 funds and there are some duplicate
services. This will alleviate that and save us money. Clifton made a motion to allow
Chairman Harris to sign the dispatch operation responsibility agreement with the city.
Jim seconded. All approved.
Public comment: Brian Wade stated he reached out to Eric last week to see if he
could get a traffic counter out in front of his house. I would like it set up to run from
now till after September 20th. Hoping he can get it out in the next couple of weeks. I
put in a KORA request because Mr. Martin on his budget request stated that he had an
8 pound meth seizure in Bourbon County. The county attorney and Bill sent me
something it’s a couple of Hispanics on a kilogram of hallucinogenic drugs which a
kilogram is 2.20462262185 of a pound. That’s not 8 pounds. So, why the fuzzy
numbers? Where did it happen? I would like to know where it happened. Also, on a
KORA request I requested information on ammunition. What he used for ammunition.
I got the receipts on that, there is a lot of money. I called Ron Gray and asked him
what did you guys use. He stated he learned from the guy before him and we didn’t
spend much money. He stated usually a box of shells to practice and a box to qualify.
The budget that Bill has for bullets is $11,640. That’s a chunk of money. I called
Travis Shelton and asked him what is your budget for shells and he said $10,000.
Travis said we pay for lights, repairs and bullets out of it. One thing I do question is
223 rounds. Thirteen thousand two hundred rounds of 223’s. That seems like a huge
number of rifle rounds. The other one is 8 and 12 gauge shot gun shells. That sounds
like we’re going dove hunting or maybe shooting some trap with 8’s. You would think
law enforcement would use slugs or double ott buck which he has very small quantity
of slugs. We got a county trap shoot? Jim stated that Bill would need to be present
and answer to that. Kevin Stark stated he has some land on the state line in Bourbon
County and the exact same land in Vernon County. My property taxes in Bourbon
County was 4 years ago was $14.00 per acre and in Vernon County it is $1.40. Tillable
ground is much higher than pasture land. It seems like we are little bit out of sync
with our neighbors. I just ask that you watch expenditures and try to keep spending
down. Cost for putting in a crop per acre is around $650. On top of that risk we have
higher property taxes. It puts us at a disadvantage. Jim stated that when comparing
to Vernon County, look at their roads compared to ours. Kevin asked the
commissioners to watch their expenditures as much as possible.
Commissioner comments: Clifton stated that Susan’s presentation from a couple of
weeks ago (may be viewed on the county website) is very telling as to why we are
where we are. You can’t compare our county to our surrounding counties. Clifton
stated there would be no meeting next week due to election. Get out and vote.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn at 7:08pm. Jim seconded. All approved.
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of July 18

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July 18, 2022 Tuesday 9:00 am
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with two Commissioners (Clifton
Beth and Jim Harris) and the County Clerk present.
Patty LaRoche, Jason Silvers, Anne Dare, Bob Reed, Kevin Davidson, Matt Quick, Clint
Walker, Nelson Blythe, Donald Coffman, Rachel and Clint Walker were present for
some or all of the meeting.
Clifton made a motion to approve the minutes for last weeks’ meeting. Jim
seconded. All approved.
Eric Bailey stated he had no permits to report on. Eric gave a reminder that the LRSP
meeting with KDOT is tomorrow from 1pm to 5pm in the Commission Room. Open to
the public if they wish to attend. Eric states regarding to asphalt, they lacked about
125 yards being done at Hiatville today. They blew a hydraulic fitting on cities’
laydown machine. We should be back up and going tomorrow and hopefully get
finished. We will be moving to 55th & Yale. I called on our paver and they haven’t
got it in yet. Bellydump is still hauling rock. We are scheduled for a blast at Blake
Quarry this Wednesday probably somewhere around 50 to 60 ton. Having issues with a
couple of dump trucks. Roadside mowing is going on now, we have four mowers
going. Have the sidearm going as well. 165th & Tomahawk had a grader operator do
about 1 mile of ditching. Did a good job. Culvert crew is trying to get some crossroad
tubes in as well. Waiting on 30 inch tubes for 115th. North of Hackberry we have
three tubes needing replaced. They’ve rotted out on the bottom. Clifton asked if
Eric had heard anything from KDOT on the bridge on 215th. Eric stated no. He said he
got a rough estimate from an engineer for bridge replacement and it was around 2 to
2 1/2 million. Eric stated they are looking at some grants.
Clifton requested an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters
of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including two
commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks, Tiana McElroy and Shane Walker for 15
minutes returning here at 6:23pm. Jim seconded. All approved. Clifton made a
motion to return to normal session with no action. Jim seconded. All approved.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to remove Matt Quick regarding Hours of
Operation from the printed agenda. Jim seconded. All approved.
Jim stated that a commissioner needed to be appointed to the Bourbon County REDI
following Lynne’s resignation and I would like to recommend Commissioner Beth.
Clifton seconded. All approved.
Susan Bancroft discussed the Revenue Neutral Rate regarding the County. After
discussion of keeping our levy flat which would exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate and
this stands as a notice to the county clerk for this budget year. The Clerk has to send
letters to every tax payer so we have to certify by the 20th of September. The

Revenue Neutral Rate hearing will be first and then we’ll talk about the budget
hearing. We will present why we are exceeding the RNR and then we will vote on the
budget following. The commissioners stated that they would like the hearing and
vote to be on separate dates. Clifton suggested a night meeting so more of the public
could attend. Clifton made a motion for Ashley to publicize the intent to exceed
Revenue Neutral Rate and the hearing will be held August 30th @ 6pm at 210 S
National, Fort Scott, KS in the Commission Room. Jim seconded. All approved.
Clifton asked Bobby Reed for an update on the jail. Bobby stated that since July 6th
we’ve had two applicants. We called to schedule an interview with one them. No
answer. I saw this individual out in the public and asked him about it. He said he
decided to do something else. Bobby told him there had been an increase in wages to
$14.50/hr. The individual stated that wasn’t enough. The other applicant was not
contacted due to her background. We are having open interviews this Thursday from
4pm to 8pm out at the jail. We’re going to hit it again on Facebook. As of tomorrow,
I will be down to 6 correctional officers. Both lieutenants are working shift work and
the captain will be going to a shift as well. I will be utilizing off-duty deputies and
myself when applicable for transports. Linn County should be opening their new
facility soon and hoping to get our inmates closer which will cut down on drive time,
maintenance and fuel. Current inmate count as of this morning was 25. We do still
have some inhouse because we can’t find homes for them at the moment.
Clifton asked Sheriff Martin regarding money for vehicles. The highway patrol
vehicles that the city bought would they be an option for us. Bill responded that their
cars are maintained but they drive their vehicles hard. The city only drives about 5
square miles. Some of the equipment that is in the vehicles cannot be transferred to
other vehicles. Bill said the price for a car fully equipped is $50 to $55,000.00. Bill
stated they are going to order two cars this year. Our fleet is getting old and worn
out. Jim stated that Bill budget request would result in a 5 mil increase and the tax
payers cannot bear that at this time. Jim stated that Bill’s concerns regarding putting
a fuel tank on the property due to flood plain. Jim stated that is not true. The flood
plain is not on the county property. Jim also stated that Bill could save 82 cents per
gallon as of today if Judy’s Fuel brought that to you. Eighty-two cents per gallon
times 15 vehicles daily. That’s $100,000 per year. Bill said that he had concerns with
the tank tipping over and running down the creek. Jim stated that there would have
to be a fence to suit the fire marshall. Bill said if that’s what you want to do then do
it today. Jim further stated that Bill had asked for more deputies. In 2021 you had
2,253 traffic stops; 928 were within the city limits. If you stay out of the city limits
would you need two more deputies? Bill stated he was glad Jim brought that up
because we are now going into criminal investigations. With that being said we will
have to go into executive session to explain those reasons. I’ve also brought Deputy
Davidson who will need to be part of the executive session to explain why we do what
we do in regards to that. Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-
4319(b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship including 2
commissioners, Justin Meeks, County Attorney Tiana McElroy, Bill Martin, Deputy

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Minutes of August 4

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

         Minutes of August 4th, 2022                       Regular Meeting #16

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held August 4th, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

 

Commissioners J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, S. Walker, and M. Wells were present with Mayor K. Harrington.

 

INVOCATION: Bill Downey, Sergeant, Fort Scott Police Department, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Travis Shelton, Dave Bruner, Lisa Lewis, Rob Harrington, Jackson Tough, Susan Bancroft, Patty LaRoche, Jason Dickman, Michael Hoyt, Destry Brown, Bill Downey, Jr., Ray Babb, James Brackett, Pete Allen, Amanda Goltra, and representing the press, Tammy Helm, Fort Scott Tribune.

 

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:  None

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July 19th, 2022 and special meeting of July 26th, 2022.

 

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1317-A totaling $378,639.54.

 

  1. Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. – (June) – $892.50

 

  1. Request to Pay – J. Richardson Construction – $47,383.81 – 17th & Eddy Project

 

  1. Wells moved to approve the Consent Agenda. S. Walker seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

 

Public Comment:

(Sign up required.  Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to  5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

 

Michael Hoyt – Mr. Hoyt said he wished to make two comments.  The first comment is that he commended Kelley Zellner, City Manager, in providing him budget work session documents.  He will have comments at the budget hearing for the Commission.

 

His second comment was concerning the petition for the ladder fire truck to have this go to a public vote.  There were 525 signatures on the petition, and he considers this voter suppression as this did not go to a vote of the public.   This had nothing to do with financing of the fire truck.  He said that the grant money should have been used to pay off the pumper truck and not purchased the ladder truck.

 

Old Business:

 

  1. Consideration for the demolition of 722 S. Heylman Street (progress report) – Bill Downey, Codes Manager, passed out photos of the demolition. There has been no progress made on this structure.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to award the bid in the amount of $1,800.00 to Dave’s Demolition. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO AWARD THE DEMOLITION BID IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,800.00 TO DAVE’S DEMOLITION FOR THE PROPERTY AT 722 S. HEYLMAN.

 

Appearances:

 

Patty LaRoche – Lake Advisory Board Report – Mrs. LaRoche said that the Lake Advisory Board met on July 9th, 2022 and made the following recommendations to the City Commission:

 

Approved to recommend to the City Commission a guideline for the future sales of City-owned property at the lake which includes the following policies and procedures:

 

  1. Smart Growth Coordination with the Lake Advisory Board to determine which lots are to be sold.
  2. Deed Restrictions such that:
  3. Any lots sold by the City of Fort Scott are to be used solely for single family residential use, whether year round or seasonal, as are related garages or outbuildings. All commercial, industrial, retail, and multi-family housing uses are prohibited.  The property may also not be subdivided in any way without the express approval of the City of Fort Scott City Commission.  These property and findings on purchaser and successors or assigns of the purchaser.
  4. Must be a stick frame home.
  5. Accurate survey of lots.
  6. Market analysis and timing recommendations.
  7. Sale Structure, which deals with how the lots would be sold (auction, listing, etc.).
  8. Listing, sale, and title document preparation.
  9. Document review by City Attorney.
  10. Document acceptance by the City Attorney and buying parties, including realtors, etc.
  11. Sale review by the City Commission.
  12. Sale Acceptance by the seller and buyer.

 

The Lake Advisory Board understands it is important to be aware that Lake Fort Scott is the emergency water supply for the City of Fort Scott.  We also understand that the City has a responsibility to its water source to do the things that pertain to monitoring and ensuring that the water source is clean, which is the bathymetric survey and the evaluation of water quality.  Given the importance of those issues to the citizens of Fort Scott, and to ensure an adequate and safe water supply in the case of drought, the Lake Advisory Board recommends the following to be funded in the next budget cycle.

 

Recommendation to the City Commission that the bathymetric survey the water course, wetlands, and lake evaluation and the water quality study should happen under the next budget cycle and be funded by any source other than the Lake fund.

 

It is also their recommendation that these studies be completed by surrounding universities as course work as they have been in the past.

 

Aaron Foxworth – Tacos & Tailgates Temporary Street Closure Request – J. Jones said that this is the Tacos and Tailgates event to be held on September 3rd, 2022 at Riverfront Park.  He asked that it be blocked off for a truck show from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. They will use the River Loop road section.

 

  1. Jones moved to approve the temporary street closure request for Riverfront Park on September 3rd, 2022 for Aaron Foxworth for the Tacos and Tailgates event. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

approved the temporary street closure request for Riverfront Park on September 3rd, 2022 for Aaron Foxworth for the Tacos and Tailgates event.   

 

Rob Harrington – Visioning Session for Bourbon County R.E.D.I. – 8/23/2022 – Mr. Harrington stated that in Proverbs 29, it states “where there is no vision, the people perish”.  He announced that Bourbon County R.E.D.I. is hosting a visioning session for all Bourbon County entities.  This will include cities in Bourbon County as well as all school districts, the college, and the County.  This will be held on April 23rd, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.  There will be a meal served to all elected officials.  Discussion on moving the county forward will be held.  He invited all City Commissioners to attend this event to be held at the River Room.

 

Public Hearing – None

 

New Business:

 

  1. Consideration of a Change in Zoning from C-2 (Commercial) to C-3 (Commercial) for property at 6 E. 13th Street and Conditional Use permit to allow a small animal hospital – Bill Downey, Codes Manager, informed the Commission that the Planning Commission met on July 11th, 2022 and voted unanimously to approve this zoning change and Conditional Use Permit. The property has been purchased by Amanda Goltra, DMV, who will open and operate a small animal hospital.

 

  1. Jones moved to approve Ordinance No. 3614 changing the zoning from C-2 to C-3 and the Conditional Use Permit to allow a small animal hospital at 6 E. 13th Street. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3614 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973 SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM C-2 (COMMERCIAL) TO C-3 (COMMERCIAL) AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO OPERATE A SMALL ANIMAL HOSPITAL FOR THE PROPERTY AT 6 E. 13TH STREET.

 

  1. Consideration of a Change in Zoning from C-2 (Commercial) to C-3 (Commercial) for property at 2204 S. Main – GO Car Wash – Approval of lot split – Bill Downey, Codes Manager, informed the Commission that the Planning Commission met on July 11th, 2022 and voted unanimously to approve this zoning change at 2204 S. Main Street as well as the lot split.

 

Fred Merrill, GO Car Wash representative stated that there is 7 acres they have purchased between Dollar Tree and Sekan Printing.   He said that they will use a shared entrance with Dollar Tree.  Mr. Merrill said that the car wash will use 1.2 acres of the property with remainder for expansion of 5.8 acres behind it.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to approve the zoning change from C-2 to C-3 and also the Lot Split for the property at 2204 S. Main Street. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3615 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973 SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM C-2 (COMMERCIAL) TO C-3 (COMMERCIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 2204 S. MAIN STREET – GO CAR WASH

 

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3616 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973 SUPP. 12-708 – LOT SPLIT AT 2204 S. MAIN STREET – GO CAR WASH – CONSISTING OF ONE PARCEL OF 5.9 ACRES AND ONE PARCEL OF 1.2 ACRES.

 

  1. Consideration of a Change in Zoning from C-2 (Commercial) to C-3 (Commercial) for property at 12th & Clark Streets – Bill Downey, Codes Manager, informed the Commission that the Planning Commission met on July 11th, 2022 and voted unanimously to approve this zoning change at 12th & Clark Streets. The prospective owner would like to build a mechanic shop at this location.

 

  1. Wells moved to approved Ordinance No. 3617 changing the zoning from C-2 to C-3 for the property at 12th & Clark Streets. S. Walker seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3617 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973 SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM C-2 (COMMERCIAL) TO C-3 (COMMERCIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 12th & CLARK STREETS.

 

  1. Ordinance filling a vacancy in office of City Commissioner – Ordinance No. 3618 – City Manager said that this Ordinance pertains to the vacancy in the office of City Commissioner.

 

Discussion was held to table this until the next meeting so they can review it more.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to table Ordinance No. 3618 until the August 16th, 2022 meeting. S. Walker seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO TABLE ORDINANCE NO. 3618 UNTIL THE AUGUST 16TH, 2022 MEETING.

 

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 32-2022 – Convention and Tourism Resolution in accordance with Charter Ordinance No. 34 – City Manager said that this Resolution will work in conjunction with Charter Ordinance No.34 concerning the oversight of the Convention and Tourism Committee with Bourbon County R.E.D.I. providing that oversight.

 

  1. Wells moved to approve Resolution No. 32-2022. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 32-2022 OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT HEREBY ESTABLISHING BY THE POWER OF CHARTER ORDINANCE NO. 34 THE OVERSIGHT OF THE COMMITTEE TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS CONCERNING THE PROGRAMS AND EXPENDITURES FOR PROMOTION OF CONVENTIONS AND TOURISM WHICH SHALL BE AUTHORIZED BY THIS RESOLUTION.

 

  1. Approval of Budget Hearing Date and Revenue Neutral Hearing Date – August 23, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. – City Manager asked about changing the budget hearing date due to the Visioning Session which will be held that same night.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to approve to hold the budget hearing and the revenue neutral hearing on September 14th, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO HOLD BUDGET HEARING AND REVENUE NEUTRAL HEARING ON SEPTEMBER 14TH, 2022 AT 5:00 P.M. AT CITY HALL.

 

Reports and Comments:

  1. City Manager Comments:

 

  1. Consideration of Memorandum of Understanding for School Resource Officers – City Manager stated that he is working with USD #234 on a Memorandum of Understanding for the School Resource Officer(s) position.

 

Josh Jones welcomed Destry Brown, Superintendent, to the Commission meeting.

 

  1. Dispatch Equipment Service & Operational Responsibility – City Manager shared with the Commission that he received a letter from the Bourbon County Commission regarding Dispatch equipment service and operational responsibility.

 

  1. Director Comments: None

 

  1. Engineering Firm Comments: Jason Dickman gave an update on the following projects:

 

  1. CDBG Sewer Project – ongoing project
  2. Horton Street project – surveying will start next week
  3. 17th & Eddy – under construction
  4. KDOT Access Road – Permit was received – will bid out soon
  5. South Industrial Park Waterline – moving forward
  6. State Revolving Loan Fund – In the first steps in submitting this application to the State

 

  1. Wells asked about the steps to Memorial Hall.

 

Jason stated that the got the plans from the contractor in Pittsburg and will talk with him next week.

 

Discussion was held on costs for bathrooms at Lake Fort Scott and estimated costs.

 

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

 

  1. Wells – Matthew thanked all City staff and Evergy personnel who worked the large power outage from the lightning strike on Wednesday, August 3rd. He thanked all who were involved. He also thanked Buck Run Community Center staff who opened up a cooling facility so residents would have a place to go and get cool and sleep.

 

He also stated that the Fort Scott National Historic Site has issues with the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team proposed location for the pavilion.  Rob Harrington is the City’s representative on this committee.

 

  1. Van Hoecke – Tim read from the City adopted Code of Procedures which states that the meeting agenda should usually go out on the Wednesday before the following Tuesday meeting. He said that he regretted that the meeting could not be held on August 2nd, 2022.

 

Tim also echoed Matthew’s comments to all who were involved with the power outage.

 

  1. Jones – Josh read from the Code of Ethics which was also adopted by the Commission that states the City Clerk may fix deadlines for the agenda so that it may be timely compiled and distributed.

 

Josh thanked Kelley for heading up the team with Evergy and the City on the outage and all working together.

 

  1. Walker – Shane thanked Kelley also for heading up the City staff on the outage.

 

Shane thanked Stephen Toal for his painting at the Water Plant on the way to Gunn Park.  He urged citizens to go and look.

 

  1. City Attorney Reports and Comments: Nothing to report.

 

Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)

 

  1. Walker moved to recess into Executive Session for personnel matters of attorney/client privilege exception in reference to possible litigation in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) until 7:29 p.m. This will include City Commissioners, City Attorney, and City Manager. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to come out of Executive Session at 7:29 p.m. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

Adjournment:

 

  1. Jones moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:30 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded.  All voted aye.

 

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 7:30 P.M.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Fort Scott, Government

Minutes of FS City Commission from August 2

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

         Minutes of August 2nd, 2022                       Regular Meeting #15

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held August 2nd, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

 

Commissioners J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, S. Walker, and M. Wells were present with Mayor K. Harrington.

 

INVOCATION: Matthew Wells, City Commissioner, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Steve Anthony, Pete Allen, Travis Shelton, Dave Bruner, Fred C. Merrill, Eric Goltra, Lori Brackett, Peter Brackett, Ray Babb, James Brackett, Mark McCoy, Bill Downey, Carl Brenner, Jason Dickman, Lisa Lewis, and Kevin Allen.

 

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:  None

 

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA:  None

 

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

 

  1. Harrington moved to recess into Executive Session for personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1) until 6:19 p.m. This will include City Commissioners and City Attorney. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

  1. Van Hoecke moved to come out of Executive Session at 6:19 p.m. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Wells moved to only approve Item B of the Consent Agenda for the Appropriation Ordinance No. 1317-A. K. Harrington seconded.

 

  1. Wells amended his motion to approve Item B of the Consent Agenda totaling $178,384.50, which is the payroll section of the Appropriation Ordinance. This is due to the fact that the agenda packet came out on Monday in lieu of Friday. K. Harrington seconded.  T. Van Hoecke, S. Walker, M. Wells, and K. Harrington voted aye.  J. Jones voted no.  Motion carried 4-1.

 

APPROVED ITEM B OF THE CONSENT AGENDA TOTALING $178,384.50 WHICH IS THE PAYROLL SECTION OF THE APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE.

 

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July 19th, 2022 and special meeting of July 26th, 2022.

 

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1317-A totaling $378,639.54.

 

  1. Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. – (June) – $892.50

 

  1. Request to Pay – J. Richardson Construction – $47,383.81 – 17th & Eddy Project

 

Public Comment:

(Sign up required.  Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to  5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

 

Steve Anthony – Steve announced that the Special Olympics Golf Tournament held this last weekend raised $32,000.  It is scheduled for July 29th, 2022 next year.

 

  1. Harrington discussed rescheduling this meeting so they can have time to review the agenda packet. They will meet on Thursday, August 4th, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.

 

  1. Harrington moved to postpone the meeting until August 4th, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. T. Van Hoecke, S. Walker, M. Wells, and K. Harrington voted aye.  J. Jones voted no.  Motion carried 4-1.

 

APPROVED TO POSTPONE THE CITY COMMISSION MEETING UNTIL AUGUST 4TH, 2022 AT 6:00 P.M.

 

Adjournment:

 

  1. Harrington moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:30 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Commission Agenda for August 16

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: August 16, 2022
1st Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District–Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk–Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Drew Talbot – Via Christi Presentation
• Transient Guest Tax
• Bill Martin – Ammo Presentation / Fuel Cost Update
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer Comment
o Bourbon County RNR
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• Public Comment
• Commission Comment
Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Agenda for August 16

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL COMMISSION MEETING ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
AUGUST 16, 2022
6:00 P.M.

 

  1. Roll Call:

 

  1. Jones  T. Van Hoecke      S. Walker      M. Wells          K. Harrington
  2.      Flag Salute/Invocation:
  • Proclamations/Recognitions:  Recognition of Steve Anthony and Ben Cole – Special Olympics Golf Tournament

 

  1. Consent Agenda:
  2. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of August 2nd, 2022 and postponed meeting of August 4th, 2022.

 

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1318-A totaling $459,765.60.

 

  1. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering, Inc.

Plan Review – GO Car Wash                                       $  288.00

City Engineer (April)                                                   $4,120.00

City Engineer (July)                                                   $4,120.00

Phase II Design -Wastewater                                     $15,417.50

South Industrial Park Waterline Project                    $ 5,116.55

Sanitary Sewer Project                                              $13,330.00

Cooper Street Inspection                                            $5,202.00

TOTAL        $47,594.05

 

  1. Request to pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. (July) – $455.00

 

  1. Request to Pay – Olsson Associates – $2,200.00 – Rehabilitate Runway & Taxiway Project Engineering

 

  1. July financials

 

  1. Public Comment:

(Sign up required.  Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

 

  1. Old Business:

 

  1. Consideration of Ordinance filling a vacancy in office of City Commissioner – Ordinance No. 3618

 

  • Appearances: Kelly Perry – Perry’s Pork Rinds – Request of use of City parking area – Motorcycle Poker Run – 9/10/2022

 

Terry Sercer – 2021 Audit Presentation

 

  • Public Hearing: None

 

  1. New Business:

 

  1. D.O.T. Project U-2455-01 – Approval of Grant Agreement – $949,000.00 – Horton Street Project
  2. Consideration of Adoption of Ordinance No. 3619 – Standard Traffic Ordinance
  3. Consideration of Adoption of Ordinance No. 3620 – Uniform Public Offense Code
  4. Discussion of Credit Card fees for customers

 

  1.    Reports and Comments:
  2. City Manager Comments:

 

  1. Director Reports:

 

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:
  2.   City Attorney Reports and Comments:
  3. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)

XII.          Adjournment: