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Category Archives: Government
Newsletter from U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt
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Earlier in the week, the Department of Homeland Security cleared for release security-related funding for FIFA World Cup host cities, including Kansas City. I was pleased to join Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) to urge the speedy release of these funds, and appreciate President Trump ensuring host cities receive the needed funding. |
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On Thursday, the Senate voted down another attempt to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. There have been at least four attacks on U.S. soil in the past two weeks, each with indicia of radical Islamic terrorism: Texas, New York, Virginia, and Michigan. Americans dead, more injured. It is beyond irresponsible for Chuck Schumer, Hakeem Jeffries, and their followers to continue blocking funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which was created after 9/11 to keep our homeland safe. Congressional Democrats need to stop stalling, and fund DHS now. |
Kratom Products Are Seized by Kansas ABC
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Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
March 13, 2026
Property Tax Relief: A historic opportunity is in Topeka to provide real property tax reform and certainty, but the clock is ticking. While the Senate and House worked in good faith toward a comprehensive solution, a key piece of the puzzle, SCR 1616, the CAP Amendment, which would cap individual assessment increases at 3% per year, providing the predictability homeowners have been pleading for, stalled in the House and was sent back to the Tax Committee. The Senate passed the CAP Amendment with a strong bipartisan vote of 30 to 10. However, despite ongoing negotiations, the House has yet to pass the measure, favoring a revenue limit instead. We need both to truly “reign in” an out-of-control system. The Assessment Cap (The Senate Plan): Protects individual homeowners from “valuation shock” and ensures transparency by requiring local governments to explicitly raise the mill levy if they want more revenue. The Revenue Limit (The House Plan): Would help control overall government spending. While helpful for the big picture, it doesn’t protect the individual homeowner from being priced out of their home. Last year, a Constitutional Amendment was passed in the House using a rolling average, but that unfortunately locks us in at today’s record-high valuations. We need the CAP Amendment to provide a real ceiling. Because of how the Kansas tax code is structured, the CAP Amendment is a Constitutional change. Passing it doesn’t make it law—it simply puts it on the ballot, allowing the people of Kansas to vote on it.
We have a powerful precedent for this: In 1975, Kansas voters amended the Constitution to change how agricultural land is valued (moving from market value to “ag use” production value). This saved countless farmers and ranchers from losing their land to high taxes. Today, Kansas families are facing that same threat. Polls show that 75% of Kansans support a 3% assessment cap. While the House and Senate continue to negotiate, the goal remains clear: protect our homes and provide lasting relief. There is still time to pass both the assessment cap and the revenue limit. Let’s finish this and give Kansans the protection they deserve.
Ethanol Fuel Tax Credit would be established in SB 498, for the sale of E-15 or higher blends for three years. The bill was amended on the Senate floor to create a tax credit on the purchases of lockable gun and ammunition storage for tax years 2026 through 2028. It also repealed some unused tax credits. It passed 38 to 1. I voted yes.
Active Shooter Drills would be established in schools if SB 263 is law. It passed 38 to 1. I voted yes.
Mandatory Recess for K-8 grade students if SB 339 becomes law. It would prohibit withholding recess for disciplinary reasons. It’s one of those bills you can see both sides. After consideration, I voted yes. It passed 24 to 15.
Cattle, Horse, and Ag Equipment Theft would be become a level 5 nonperson felony and forfeiture of contraband property used in the theft. It would result in significant penalties, including imprisonment, depending on the thief’s previous record. HB 2413 passed unanimously.
Grain and Hay Theft penalties would become a level 6 nonperson felony if HB 2422 becomes law. Punishment will depend on the thief’s criminal history. It passed unanimously.
Wildlife and Parks would be allowed to set fees through rules and regulations if HB 2568 becomes law. It was controversial and only passed 23 to 16. I voted no.
Governor Emergency Powers would be expanded during the World Cup (soccer) in Sen Sub for HB 2212. The state gave $28 million for infrastructure changes for the World Cup and now they want emergency powers to suspend our laws for security concerns. Where will it end? I voted no. It passed 38 to 2.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Highlights From the FSCC Special Meeting on March 12
PRESS RELEASE – Fort Scott Community College Special Board Meeting
March 13, 2026
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College met in special session at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Burris Hall.
Vice Chair Chad McKinnis opened the meeting.
Leadership reports were shared by the following:
Dr. Larry Guerrero, Vice President of Academic Affairs, presented information on academics, including Farm & Ranch Management certificates, the addition of an Equine Management & Production program, and adding a Pharmacy Technician Certificate.
Lindsay Hill, Dean of Advancement, provided updates on the facilities master plan; the fleet management plan, which includes the disposal of some vehicles; and Foundation updates, including fundraising for soccer field enhancements, Hall of Fame Alumni Weekend taking place May 1–2, the annual scholarship dinner, and a scholarship drive aimed at establishing new endowed funds.
Dave Wiemers, Athletic Director, celebrated that the men’s basketball team has advanced to the National Tournament, with its first game on Monday at 9:00 a.m. He also provided an update to the board on the 2026 Athletics Hall of Fame inductees, who will be honored at a ceremony on May 2 during Hall of Fame Weekend.
Gina Shelton, CFO/Vice President of Finance & Operations, updated the board on ongoing accounting work, audit progress, student refunds issued, and the upcoming rodeo weekend, noting the positive economic impact these activities have in the community.
Vanessa Poyner, Vice President of Student Affairs, presented an update on the Strategic Plan work being done through committee efforts. Mrs. Poyner reviewed the six goals established by the committee, as well as the work to be done on tactics and measurable outcomes. She also reviewed changes to the employee scholarship.
Dr. Jack Welch, President, shared an update on visits to school districts over the last few weeks and the feedback being received about FSCC through that outreach.
The board reviewed agenda items for the March 13, 2026, regular meeting. The remainder of the time was spent on board training on goal setting, guided by Dr. Michelle Hubbard with KASB.
The board adjourned.
Special Meeting of the FSCC Trustees Today, March 12, at Noon
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING
BURRIS HALL
MARCH 12, 2026 – 12:00 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA
1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – CHAIR
2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION
3.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES (INFORMATION)
3.1 Academics
- Vice President of Academic Affairs – Dr. Larry Guerrero
3.2 Advancement
- Dean of Advancement – Lindsay Hill
- Gordon Parks Museum
- Gordon Parks Update
- Gordon Parks Museum
3.3 Athletics
- Athletic Director – Dave Wiemers
- Athletic Update
3.4 Finance
- CFO – Vice President of Finance & Operations – Gina Shelton
3.5 Student Services
- Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner
3.6 Administrative Committees
- Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner
- Strategic Plan
3.7 Presidential Update
- President Dr. Jack Welch
4.0 REVIEW OF MARCH 13TH AGENDA ITEMS (INFORMATION)
5.0 BOARD MEMBER TRAINING (INFORMATION)
6.0 ADJOURN (ACTION)
FSCC Trustees Meet at Noon on March 13
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING
BURRIS HALL
MARCH 13, 2026 – 12:00 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA
1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – CHAIR
2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION
3.0 APPROVAL OF OFFICIAL AGENDA (ACTION)
4.0 APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA (ACTION)
4.1 Minutes
- February 13, 2026, Board of Trustees Special Meeting
- February 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Meeting
- March 02, 2026, Board of Trustees Special Meeting
4.2 Financials – Cash Flow Report
4.3 Check Register – $815,849.56
4.4 Payroll – February 13, 2026 – $635,461.17
4.5 Contract Ratification
- Contract for FRAME Grant Duplexes
- KASB Legal Assistance Fund 2026-27
5.0 COMMUNITY, EMPLOYEE, AND STUDENT RECOGNITION (INFORMATION)
5.1 Program Review – TRIO
5.2 Recognition: Trustee Emeritus
5.3 Recognition: Students
6.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES (INFORMATION)
7.0 OLD BUSINESS
7.1 State of the College address will be:
- May 21st at 12 pm in the Ellis Fine Arts building (INFORMATION)
7.2 Employee Scholarships 2026-2027 (ACTION)
7.3 Agreement – STARS (ACTION)
8.0 NEW BUSINESS
8.1 Farm and Ranch Management Certificates (ACTION)
8.2 Pharmacy Technician Certificate (ACTION)
9.0 PUBLIC FORUM
10.0 EXECUTIVE SESSION – SECURITY MEASURES
10.1 Enter Executive Session (ACTION)
10.2 Exit Executive Session – Return to Open Session (INFORMATION)
11.0 PERSONNEL
11.1 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (ACTION)
11.2 Exit Executive Session – Return to Open Session (INFORMATION)
11.3 Employment Matters of Non-Elected Personnel (ACTION)
12.0 BOARD COMMENTS
13.0 ADJOURN (ACTION)
Ks Senate Passes Two Bills Supporting Agriculture Producers
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Minutes of the USD 234 Board of Education on March 10
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, March 9, 2026
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 2026, for their regular monthly meeting at 424 S Main St.
Vice President Stewart Gulager opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
02-09-2026
02-11-2026
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – February 20, 2026 – $1,842,624.59
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
Food Service Fundraiser
Archery Club Fundraiser
Boys Golf Fundraiser
Students, Junie Fisher, Clark Uttinger, and Levi Fairchild, from Fort Scott High School along with teacher, Angie Bin presented to the Board about their performances, events, and services. They went through each of their performances and events that have happened over the last year. Also, the students have helped with the Food Bank and help lead the Middle School Drama Club. Angie Bin brought a few items that need updated and thanked the Board for their continued support.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided a shared document. Mr. Mayfield reviewed budget projections and summer projects. There was discussion with the Board about the Preschool building and construction that is happening.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on State Assessment preparations that are underway. He also discussed a couple bills and propositions that are being brought up by the state, he will keep the board updated as his is given information.
Special Education Director Tonya Barnes shared an update on Special Olympics on March 25. Everyone was invited. She also updated on reports and payments that are happening soon.
The Board approved the following:
- Health Insurance Refund
- 10 Passenger Van Purchase
- 2026-27 School Calendar (Pending Negotiations)
- Approval of Graduation Requirements
- High School Activity/Athletic Director Mentor Contract
- KASB Membership Renewal 26-27
- KASB Legal Assistance Fund Renewal 26-27
- Sparkwheel MOU 26-28
The Board received an informational overview of Fort Scott USD 234’s Cost Containment planning. No board action was requested.
There were none present for the public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
Vice President Stewart Gulager adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
March 9, 2026
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
Campbell, Marjorie – Resignation – SPED Teacher – High School
Dare, Jeremy – Resignation – Bus Driver
Lemcke, Hailey – Resignation – Paraprofessional – High School
Stewart, Mya – Resignation – Speech Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Coen, Jessica – Resignation – Teacher – PreSchool
Howard, Paulette – Retirement – Gifted/ESOL Teacher – MS/HS
Ables, Andrew – Resignation – Science – Middle School
Rainey, Taylor – Resignation – Special Education Teacher – Eugene Ware
Feeback, Brennen – Resignation – Social Studies – High School
Judy, Mercedes – Resignation – Teacher – Winfield Scott
SUPPLEMENTAL RESIGNATIONS:
Horton, Curtis – Assistant Football, Summer Conditioning – High School
Glades, Matt – Assistant Football, Summer Conditioning – High School
Feeback, Brennen – Head Boys Basketball, Assistant Football, Assistant Track, Summer Conditioning – High School
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations for 2026-27 School Year:
Hughes, Madison – Physical Education Teacher – Winfield Scott
Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:
Karleskint, Josh – Bus Driver
SUPPLEMENTAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Eastwood, Kim – K-5 Summer School Administrator
Farrington, Jannah – ESY Coordinator – grades 6-12
Hendricks, Caleb – 6-12 Summer School Administrator
Jones, Mesa – Assistant Play – Spring
Shoemaker, Billi Jo – ESY Coordinator – grades K-5
Administrator Contracts – Extended 27-28
Terry Mayfield – Assistant Superintendent
Tonya Barnes – Director of Special Education
Jeff Johnson – High School Principal
Josh Regan – High School Assistant Principal
Daniel (DJ) Brown – Middle School Principal
Matt Harris – Middle School Assistant Principal
Yasmina Query – Eugene Ware Elementary Principal
Brandon Boyd – Eugene Ware Elementary Assistant Principal
Chris Garzone – Winfield Scott Elementary Principal
Nick Johnson – Preschool Principal
Newsletter From U.S. Senator Jerry Moran
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Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
March 6, 2026
Budget Overspending continues. As with any budget, there seems to always be good, bad, and just downright ugly. This budget wasn’t as bad as we have seen in the past, but it still spends more than is projected to be collected in taxes. The legislature must pass a budget, and doing so responsibly means confronting an uncomfortable truth: there is a pattern of spending increases that outpaced taxes to be collected, especially in discretionary programs that lack clear performance metrics. Some of this spending is a result of the billions of federal COVID dollars that we were assured were one time spends and would not burden Kansas taxpayers. The budget passed the Senate 21 to 19. I voted no on this government growth. The Senate and House budget committee leaders will now meet to work out differences for a final budget.
Welfare benefits were established to help those in need. The fraud and abuse of these programs is occurring at a staggering rate. Just look at Minnesota, where billions of dollars were fraudulently stolen. Kansas is acting to stop fraud and abuse by strengthening the eligibility rules and work requirements of programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, TANF and other programs. Another provision in SB 363 makes it so people who are permanently disabled would only have to file once, not annually as they do now. Kansans support safety net programs to be preserved for those who truly need them, and SB 363 does that. It passed the Senate 25 to 13. I voted yes.
An Emergency Declaration for the wildfires in south central and southwestern Kansas. There were some counties in the 12th Senate district also included in HCR 5033, allowing for exemptions on weight limits and other such restrictions to transport hay and items needed because of the fires. It passed the Senate unanimously.
Elections would be more secure by verifying signatures of mail-in ballots. While it may seem obvious that such a safeguard should already be standard practice, legislation is needed to codify it. SB 394 would also allow another individual to sign a voter’s ballot envelope when the voter is unable to sign personally. It passed 26 to 11. I voted yes.
Electronic devices would be prohibited in Kansas schools by requiring each district to adopt a policy that removes cell phones, tablets, smart watches, and other personal communication devices from classroom use. Senate Substitute for HB 2299 would also require district policies governing social‑media platforms. Limited exceptions would be permitted. For example, when a student needs a device to remind them to take medication or when a school‑issued device is required for instructional purposes. Research consistently shows that reading on paper yields better comprehension and retention than reading on most electronic devices. The legislation was drafted to avoid excessive bureaucracy while delivering safety benefits by restricting non‑educational electronic devices use at school. Parents, school administrators, and other stakeholders can help refine the policy at the local level. It passed 32 to 4. I voted yes.
Federal Law Enforcement and their vehicles would be treated as Kansas law‑enforcement officers if SB 452 becomes law. The bill also creates a new misdemeanor that prohibits anyone from approaching within 25 feet of a police officer, EMT, or firefighter after being given a visual or audible signal to stay back. Proponents say the measure closes gaps between state and federal policing authority, while critics argue it could impinge on civil liberties because it criminalizes proximity to officers who are performing their duties. Although individuals may still be present in the vicinity and may record the activity, they must remain at least 25 feet away once an officer signals them to do so. The bill passed 31 to 7. I voted yes.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Newsletter of U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt
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