Category Archives: Government

Fort Scott, Government

Agenda for the FS City Commission on September 16

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    NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

September 16, 2025  –  6:00 P.M.

 

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1392-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 27, 2025 – September 9, 2025 – $ 532,945.19
  4. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of September 2, 2025
  5. August Financials
  6. Request to Pay – Invoice 18192 – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – EEI Project No. 25-12 – E. National Project – Phase 1 – Preliminary 25% – Design – $12,937.50

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Davin Reichard – Request for Parade Permit – Pioneer Harvest Fiesta – Oct. 2, 2025

 

VIII.   Unfinished Business

  1. Discussion of Land Lease Agreement – M. Wells
  2. Discussion of Food Truck Ordinance
  3.  Discussion of CHAMPS Bowl Game – B. Matkin

 

  1. New Business

Public Hearing:

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 25-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 18 S. HOLBROOK – L. Kruger
  2. Consideration of Resolution No. 26-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 402 N. SHUTE – L. Kruger
  3. Consideration of Resolution No. 27-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 205 N. LINCOLN – L. Kruger

 

Action Items:

  1. Consideration to Trade 963 Track Loader – T. Coffman
  2. IT Update – S. Mitchell
  3. Discussion of Small Business Grant Incentive – M. Wyatt

 

  1. Planning, Housing and Business Development Update – M. Wyatt
  2. Consideration of Application – CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Grant – L. Dillon
  3. Consideration of Second Amendment to ER Funding Agreement – Approved by     

       Bourbon County Commission September 8, 2025

  1. Approval to go out for Codes Mowing Bids – 3-Years – B. Matkin
  2. Consideration of CCLIP Project Programming Request – J. Dickman

 

  1. Reports and Comments

 

  1. Adjourn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

Help With Wireless phone service, Interne plan

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Lifeline program helps Kansans in need stay connected

TOPEKA – Phone and internet services are vital to accessing healthcare and community services, finding employment, and calling for help in an emergency. However, the cost to stay connected is out of reach for many Kansans.

In observance of National Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, September 7-13, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in creating awareness of the program offerings and encourages those in need of assistance to apply.

Lifeline provides combined federal and state discounts of up to $17.02 per month to help pay for residential or wireless phone service, internet, or a bundled phone and internet plan. Subscribers living on tribal lands qualify for additional discounts. Currently, nearly 8.6 million Americans, including 19,500 Kansans, are enrolled in the program.

Eligibility is based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA)
  • Veterans Pension & Survivors Pension Benefit
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
  • Head Start Tribal Programs (income based)
  • The Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands

In addition, the Safe Connections Act (SCA) of 2022 helps survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and related crimes get discounted phone, internet or bundled services through the Lifeline program. Those who qualify under SCA can receive up to six months of emergency Lifeline support and their privacy will be protected. Details are available at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/survivor-benefit/.

More information on income eligibility, participating Lifeline providers, and the enrollment process is available on the KCC’s website or by calling 800-662-0027.

###

Elections, Government

U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt Newsletter

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Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

 

After a productive August meetings with constituents throughout our Second District, Congress reconvened this week to continue our work on behalf of the American people.

Unleashing American Energy Production

This week, the focus on the House floor was continuing to reduce regulatory burdens on our energy producers, as well as passing the Energy & Water appropriations bill that continues to invest in American natural resource production while cutting the bloated federal bureaucracy.

The House this week passed resolutions overturning three additional Biden-era regulations that hampered energy producers in Montana, North Dakota and Alaska. We have now passed 20 resolutions overturning burdensome regulations from the Biden Administration using the authority of the Congressional Review Act. I hope that we continue to use this tool to undo more regulations that stifle our economy and place incredible compliance costs on our small businesses.

In addition, the House passed the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which provides funding for our national security, energy research, and other key infrastructure programs. The bill reduces spending by more than $766 million from the prior year, as we continue the critical work of reducing the federal deficit.

Working Families Tax Cuts — No Tax on Tips

This week, as we marked Labor Day, the Treasury Department rolled out its list of nearly 70 different occupations that will be eligible for the “No Tax on Tips” deduction that was enacted as part of the Working Families Tax Cut package passed earlier this summer.
Washington Examiner: About 70 professions will qualify for Trump’s ‘No Tax on Tips’ deduction: Treasury

Kansas Visits

Before returning to Washington, I wrapped up the August District Work Period with a few remaining stops in Kansas, including joining my colleagues Rep. Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04) speaking to the Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association about the pro-energy policies we have enacted in the first half of the year. In addition, I toured the Mars production facility in Topeka, which employs more than 400 people.
Rep. Schmidt speaks to the Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association.
Rep. Schmidt at the Topeka Mars facility

Next week, the House is scheduled to consider the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual bill which authorizes funding for our entire military. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I’m proud to have been a part of the work of putting this bill together — which contains numerous wins for Kansas, including protecting medical facilities in Kansas from downsizing, including Irwin Army Community Hospital at Fort Riley; and preserving the National Simulation Center at Fort Leavenworth. I’m looking forward to the bill receiving strong, bipartisan support on the House floor.
Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda Packet for Sept. 8

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BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
September 08, 2025, 5:30 PM
I. Call Meeting to Order
• Roll Call
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Prayer
II. Discussion of meeting limits-Beerbower
III. Approval of Agenda
IV. Approval of Minutes 08/25/25 & 08/29/25
V. Consent Agenda
• Approval of 09.05.25Accounts Payable Totaling $308,641.44
• Approval of 09.05.25 Payroll Totaling $326,473.16
VI. Lora Holdridge-Budget Question
VII. Executive Session: Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected
personnel to protect their privacy. Tran
VIII. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
IX. Old Business
• Mapleton Road – Beerbower
• Phone System -Beerbower
• Software program – Beerbower
• Stronghold
• FSACF Grant – Beerbower
• Security Camera’s – Beerbower
• Craw-Kan
• Elm Creek Quarry
• Freeman Agreement
X. New Business
• North Crawford St. – Beerbower
• Eagle Road – Beerbower
• 95th Street South of Unique – ROD & Security 1st
• Opioid Settlement
• Planning Commission Selection Process
• Agenda-Clerk
XI. Commission Comments
XII. Adjournment _____________
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which would be deemed
privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in
consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations,
partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at
an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.

9.5.25(1

rCICCouncilRptAll CLERK(1)

Fort Scott Community College, Government

The FSCC Trustees Will Hold a Mock HLC Accreditation Visit on Sept. 8

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The FSCC Board of Trustees will hold a special board meeting on Monday, September 8 from 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm in the Cleaver-Boileau-Burris Agriculture Building to participate in a mock Higher Learning Commission Accreditation visit.  No action will be taken during this time.

 

Juley McDaniel

Director of Human Resources

Fort Scott Community College

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda Packet for the Uniontown City Council on Sept. 9

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The Uniontown City Council agenda for Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. at City Hall

ROLL CALL:  ___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett

 ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Appoint city clerk and administer oath of office.

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Sally Johnson – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of August 12, 2025- 2026 Budget Hearing and Regular Meeting and August 14, 2025 Special Meeting
  2. August Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & September Accounts Payables
  3. Resolution 2025-0909-01 waiving the requirements of K.S.A. 75-1120a(a)

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Codes Enforcement:  Doug Coyan

 

 

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

Park Food Truck Outlets

 

 

Clerk Report:

Possible office hour changes

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilman Kelly –

Councilwoman Pemberton –

Councilwoman Pritchett –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

SEED Grant –

 

FEMA Flooding–

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Motion by _____________, Second by   __________, Approved ______, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at ____________.

 

ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________

08122025 2026 Budget Hearing,

Regular Meeting(1) 08142025

Special Meeting(1)

Res 2025-0909-01 Audit Waiver for 2025

 

Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission Meeting on Sept. 2

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of September 2, 2025                       Regular Meeting

 

A regular 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 Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer, Dyllon Olson, and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Michael Hoyt, Jack Welch, Zac Crumby, Patrick Barnes/Olsson, Diane Striler, Anne Dare, and Harold Martin.

 

VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and WELLS said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the amended agenda with the addition of Ben Hart/BakerTilly/Appearances and the removal of Item D/New Business/Action Items – purchase of the skid steer. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1391-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 13, 2025 – August 26, 2025 – $1,554,438.30

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of August 19, 2025

–  Request to Pay – Invoice No. 527851 – Olsson – Project No. 024-06580 – FSK RSA Grading and Runway Lighting Project – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-024/025-2025 – Design and Bidding (services rendered through February 1, 2025) – $41,850.00

–  Approval of Resolution No. 20-2025 A RESOLUTION TO SUBMIT TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY, THE PROPOSITION OF LEVYING ONE-HALF PERCENT (0.5%) RETAILERS’ SALES TAX IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Comment

Harold Martin requested permission to comment during the discussion on the sale of lake lots which was granted.

 

Appearances

Zac Crumby – Request for Temporary Street Closure – Motorcycle Benefit Ride for KRI/Ride 4 Kids – September 13, 2025 – National to W. Oak from Wall St. – 3:00PM – 11:30PM – Last stop at Sharky’s.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the Temporary Street Closure for the ride for kids event from 3PM to 11:30PM on September 13, 2025 . WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Jack Welch –   CHAMPS (H.O.T.) Heart of Texas Football Bowl

Welch, Founder and CEO of America’s Drug Free Productions, requested City sponsorship for the December 6th CHAMPS bowl game, a 501(c)(3) event promoting awareness on alcohol, drugs, bullying, and suicide. He seeks $30,000 in funding to cover team lodging and a banquet, though $20,000 would cover the game alone without the banquet. Ticket sales support future events. The game typically features a top Texas team against one from Kansas, Mississippi, or Arizona, though it would be canceled in case of bad weather. Welch will host the event at Frary Field.

 

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to host the CHAMPS Heart of Texas Football Bowl with the City of Fort Scott with a donation to help cover those costs including the banquet of $30,000.00 out of the Special Alcohol/Drug Fund. OLSON seconded. VAN HOECKE, OLSON, and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS and DANCER voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-2.

 

Ben Hart/Baker Tilly was available for Commissioners’ questions in preparation of the public hearing for the budget scheduled for September 16, 2025, including a 0.8 mill decrease.

 

New Business

 

Public Hearing:

Consideration of Resolution No. 21-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 102 N. BARBEE – L. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

KRUGER gave a history of the structure as it pertains to code violations and Code’s Enforcement.

He stated the owner was unresponsive to outreach attempts, and the property is delinquent on

taxes. There we no other public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 21-2025 a resolution directing the removal of an alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 102 N. Barbee. OLSON seconded.

DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 22-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 602 S. BARBEE – L. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

KRUGER requested the item be tabled for another time because a gentleman has a contract with a realtor to buy the property. There we no other public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the public hearing for 602 S. Barbee for (90) days. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 23-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 CLARK – L. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

KRUGER gave a history of the structure as it pertains to code violations and Code’s Enforcement. He stated the owner was contacted and expressed no interest in fixing the property.

 

No public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 23-2025 a resolution directing the removal of an alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 505 Clark. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Action Items:

Consideration of Olsson proposal to perform the design and bidding phase services for KDOT-KAIP (Project No. AV-2026-16) – Olsson Project No. 025-04135 – Patrick Barnes/Olsson

BARNES presented the proposal from Olson to design and perform bidding services for taxiway lighting at the Fort Scott Municipal Airport was presented. The project is funded by a KDOT grant with a 90/10 split. He was present to answer questions.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to allow Olsson to move forward. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

Overview of MIH Grant Application as it relates to the proposal advertised for qualified residential developers (Applications due September 20, 2025) – L. Dillon

DILLON appeared to request permission to apply the MIH grant along with the Kansas Housing Investor

Tax Credit (KHITC). She stated that a Request for Proposals has been advertised and approximately (4) developers are interested. The grant being sought is $650,000, with approximately 10% allocated for down

payment assistance for moderate-income housing.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to give permission to go after the MIH and KHITC grants. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Discussion of the Sale of Lake Lots – L. Dillon

DILLON stated that an individual had inquired about purchasing lake lots and wanted to know the process. Discussion was had about the remaining that were still open and owned by the City, and the previous sales. The Commission concluded that the topic and process needed to be discussed and reevaluated in the future.

 

MARTIN commented that he was encouraged that the Commission was taking a cautious approach on making the decision for further sales of lake lots. He expressed his concern about the health of the lake and recommended that they consider doing a bathymetric survey, environmental impact study and regular water quality testing. He also expressed concern about the sewer system and lift station at the lake regarding its ability to manage an increase of residents. He has brought these items to the City’s attention several times in the past.

 

Discussion was had on encroachment on City property and improvements at the lake.

 

MATKIN left the meeting at 7:01PM and returned at 7:03PM.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the lake lot discussion until another time in the future, based on our previous procedures of selling lake lots, or until such matter is brought up again. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 24-2025 A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AUTHORIZING THE REDEMPTION AND PAYMENT OF ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES A, 2014 AND SERIES B, 2014 (SLEEP INN AND SUITES HOTEL PROJECT) AND THE SALE AND CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY TO FS HOSPITALITY GROUP, LLC

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve Resolution No. 24-2025. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

 

Consideration of Chip Seal Payment

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to accept the offer from Bettis for the Chip Seal payment at the reduced rate of $201,000.00 Olsson. DANCER seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of 99-Year Land Lease Agreement – M. Wells

MOTION:  WELLS moved to table the discussion until September 16, 2025. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project Update

– Davis Lift Station

 

CITY ATTORNEY – Observation on American Legion representative for the car show, thorough and appreciative.

 

FARMER left the meeting 7:13PM and returned at 7:15PM

 

CITY MANAGER

–  Franchise fees with Evergy – agreement expires February 2026

–  Milling of Lee Circle Drive and Crescent Drive

–  Curb and guttering work on Eddy Street

–  100th Year Celebration of Memorial Hall, Friday, Sept. 5 – 11:30AM

–  Organizational chart for DANCER coming this week

–  Memorial Hall renovation scope of work to come

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will provide a Scope of Work for Memorial Hall project for bond consideration by September 16, 2025, meeting.

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

–  Additional activities on Skubitz Plaza

–  Concerns about Lake Patrol and camping area improvements

–  Evergy franchise agreement

–  Bettis Asphalt

–  Memorial Hall in combination with Library expansion for bond

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

–  Comments regarding city events and Commission is doing a good job

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY –  No comments

 

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

–  Moody building status

–  Revisit food truck ordinance September 16, 2025

–  Sidewalk improvement in downtown district (mostly south side)

–  Budget reports feedback to come Monday, September 8, 2025

 

ACTION:  CITY CLERK to put food truck ordinance on September 16, 2025. MATKIN will look for SALSBURY’S submitted suggestions for the ordinance.

 

ACTION:  DANCER will talk with MATKIN regarding the budget reports he is requesting.

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

–  Response to comments made by WELLS

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  OLSON moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:36PM. DANCER seconded.

 

SEPTEMBER 2, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:36PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government, Kansas

Bourbon County Receives $1M For Bridge Project on Jayhawk Rd.

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Governor Kelly Announces $40.5M
for 27 Local Bridge Projects


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed today announced that 27 local and off-system bridge projects across Kansas will receive a combined total of $40.5 million in state and federal funding as part of two local bridge improvement programs.

“By funding bridge projects across our state, we are directly investing in the future of our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Repairing and replacing aging bridges ensures people and commerce can move safely and efficiently throughout Kansas.”

Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $46.5 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, and over 5,000 of those bridges need updates to meet today’s standards.

“The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program has allowed us to enhance our commitment to local bridges,” Secretary Reed said. “This is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about strengthening the vital connections that keep our towns and cities thriving.”

KDOT will award about $20 million through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2026. The funds will go to 11 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four deficient bridges will be permanently removed from local systems. The KLBIP, established in 2015, provides funds to local public authorities for the replacement or rehabilitation of deficient city and county-owned bridges. The program also allows cities and counties to be awarded additional funds for the removal of deficient bridges.

KDOT will award $20.5 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2027 to fund 16 projects across the state. The OSB program was established to comply with federal requirements to use a specific portion of federal funds for bridges not on the federal-aid system. The funding is a combination of federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, Bridge Program Funds, and state funds.

The OSB and KLBIP programs are used for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that consider items such as bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 163 applications requesting $189.3 million.

Below is a list of the recipients and project locations for the KLBIP and OSB programs.

2026 Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program Projects

Local Government Agency

Location

Local Contribution

Local % Match

KDOT Match Funds

Funds for Bridge Removal

Total Funds Awarded

City of Topeka

SW 57th Street over S. branch Shunganunga Creek 0.2 miles east of US-75

$528,758

20%

$1,200,000

$      –

$1,200,000

Edwards County

20 Road (RS 1491) over a tributary to Little Coon Creek 7.0 miles north of Offerle

$65,521

0%

$900,000

$      –

$900,000

Ellis County

125th Avenue over the Saline River 12.5 miles north and 0.5 miles east of Ellis

$757,178

15%

$4,300,000

$60,900

$4,360,900

Gray County

FF Road over Crooked Creek tributary 6.0 miles south and 0.8 miles east of Haggard

$110,459

5%

$750,000

$      –

$750,000

Greenwood County

100th St over Fall River tributary 3.0 miles east and 3.2 miles north of Climax

$142,509

5%

$1,200,000

$       –

$1,200,000

Harvey County

SW 14th St over Sand Creek 1.9 miles west of I-135 in Newton

$1,057,558

15%

$2,550,000

$      –

$2,550,000

Lincoln County

E Kiowa Road over Wolf Creek 4.5 miles west of Sylvan Grove

$31,902

0%

$1,970,000

$50,000

$2,020,000

Neosho County

Veteran’s road over the Neosho River 1.0 miles east and 2.6 miles south of St. Paul

$840,859

15%

$3,065,000

$      –

$3,065,000

Rawlins County

Road 16.5 over Little Beaver Creek 0.4 miles north of Blakeman

$95,552

0%

$2,300,000

$      –

$2,300,000

Rooks County

J Road over Sand Creek 8.2 miles west of Stockton

$57,616

5%

$1,100,000

$52,200

$1,152,200

Trego County

380th Avenue over drainage ditch 1.4 miles south and 13.0 miles east of Trego Center

$40,951

0%

$500,000

$      –

$500,000

 

 

$3,728,863

 

$19,835,000

$163,100

$19,998,100

2027 Off-System Bridge Program Project Recommendations

Local Government Agency

Bridge Location

Local Contribution

Local Cost %

Maximum Funds Awarded (covering 100% of Construction and CE)

Doniphan County

Oxide Road over an abandoned CRI railroad immediately south of US-36 2.5 miles east of Troy

$82,994

6.80%

$1,250,000

Bourbon County

Jayhawk Road over tributary to Marmaton River 2.5 miles South and 1.9 miles West of Fort Scott

$87,362

8.90%

$1,000,000

Butler County

SW 80th Street over the Walnut River located 3.6 miles North and 2.0 miles East of Augusta

$251,537

11.20%

$2,000,000

Chase County

YY Road over Jacob Creek tributary 4.7 miles South and 1.0 mile East of Saffordville

$133,227

11.20%

$1,100,000

Cloud County

Wagon Road over Grave Creek 2.8 miles North and 6.0 miles East of Jamestown

$92,822

7.50%

$1,300,000

Cowley County

155th Road over Silver Creek 9.6 miles East and 4.0 miles North of Arkansas City

$114,663

5.60%

$2,000,000

Geary County

McNeal Road over East Branch Humboldt Creek 5.0 miles South and 12.0 miles East of Junction City

$104,834

12.50%

$800,000

Harper County

SE 120 Avenue over Bluff Creek 3.0 miles East and 0.4 miles South of Bluff City

$416,269

17.20%

$2,000,000

Kingman County

SE 100 Street over Rose Bud Creek 3.2 miles North and 0.2 miles West of Rago

$76,442

10.30%

$750,000

Linn County

E 850th Road over Little Sugar Creek on the north edge of Mound City 0.6 miles East of K-7

$614,308

23.50%

$2,000,000

Osage County

S Fisher Road over Plum Creek tributary 1.7 miles South and 1.5 miles West of Burlingame

$124,491

11.70%

$1,000,000

Osborne County

S 55th Road over South Fork of the Solomon River 1.0 miles South and 5.5 miles East of Osborne

$65,521

4.30%

$1,600,000

Ottawa County

Frontier Road over Sand Creek 0.5 miles North of Bennington

$68,252

7.80%

$900,000

Phillips County

W 700 Road over Starvation Creek 0.5 miles North of Stuttgart

$76,442

6.80%

$1,200,000

Riley County

Lasita Road over Timber Creek 1.0 mile North, 6.0 miles West of city of Riley

$66,614

11.10%

$600,000

Stafford County

SE 60 Street over the North Fork Ninnescah River, 6.0 miles South and 0.4 miles West of Stafford

$76,442

7.90%

$1,000,000

$2,452,220

$20,500,000

More information about KDOT’s bridge program is available on its webpage on the KDOT website.

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Government, Kansas

KS August Tax Collections Above Estimate

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August Total Tax Collections at $692.3 Million; 3.9% Above Estimate


TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends August 2025 with total tax collections at $692.3 million. That is $26.2 million, or 3.9%, above the estimate. Total tax collections were up 4.0% from August 2024.

“This month’s stronger-than-expected tax collections highlight the strength of Kansas’ work to attract business investment and workforce development, evidenced by reported witholdings up 13.7% over August of 2024,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “However, even if these better-than-expected revenues continue, I remain concerned about the reckless budget’s impact on the long-term fiscal health of the state and the risk of departing from the course of fiscal responsibility we have been on.”

Individual income tax collections were $361.2 million, which is $16.2 million, or 4.7% above the estimate. Individual income tax collections were up 9.7% from August 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $18.2 million, which is $1.8 million, or 9.0% below the estimate, and down 9.7% from August 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $294.2 million, which is $11.2 million, or 4.0% above the estimate, and down 0.1% from August 2024.

Click here to view the August 2025 revenue numbers.

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Fort Scott, Government

Agenda for the FS City Commission on Sept. 2

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    NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

September 2, 2025  –  6:00 P.M.

 

 

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1391-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 13, 2025 – August 26, 2025 – $1,554,438.30

 

  1. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of August 19, 2025

 

  1. Request to Pay – Invoice No. 527851 – Olsson – Project No. 024-06580 – FSK RSA Grading and Runway Lighting Project – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-024/025-2025 – Design and Bidding (services rendered through February 1, 2025) – $41,850.00

 

  1. Approval of Resolution No. 20-2025 A RESOLUTION TO SUBMIT TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY, THE PROPOSITION OF LEVYING ONE-HALF PERCENT (0.5%) RETAILERS’ SALES TAX IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Zac Crumby – Request for Temporary Street Closure – Motorcycle Benefit Ride for KRI/Ride 4 Kids – September 13, 2025 – National to W. Oak from W. Wall St. – 3:00PM – 11:30PM – Last stop at Sharky’s.

 

  1. 2. Jack Welch – CHAMPS (H.O.T.) Heart of Texas Football Bowl

 

VIII.   Unfinished Business

 

  1. New Business

Public Hearing:

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 21-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 102 N. BARBEE – L. Kruger

 

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 22-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 602 S. BARBEE – L. Kruger

 

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 23-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 CLARK – L. Kruger

 

Action Items:

  1. Consideration of Olsson proposal to perform the design and bidding phase services for KDOT-KAIP (Project No. AV-2026-16) – Olsson Project No. 025-04135 – M. Wyatt – Patrick Barnes/Olsson.

 

  1. Consideration to purchase 24” High Flow Planer for skid steer – $18,759.84 – B. Matkin

 

  1. Overview of MIH Grant Application as it relates to the proposal advertised for qualified residential developers (Applications due September 20, 2025) – L. Dillon

 

  1. Discussion of the Sale of Lake Lots – L. Dillon

 

  1. E. Consideration of Resolution No. 24-2025 A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AUTHORIZING THE REDEMPTION AND PAYMENT OF ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES A, 2014 AND SERIES B, 2014 (SLEEP IN AND SUITES HOTEL PROJECT) AND THE SALE AND CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY TO FS HOSPITALITY GROUP, LLC
  2. Consideration of Chip Seal Payment
  3. Consideration of 99-Year Land Lease Agreement – M. Wells

 

  1. Reports and Comments

 

  1. Adjourn