Category Archives: Government

Draft Minutes of the Uniontown City Council from April 12

The Regular Council Meeting on April 12, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:02 PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, and Josh Hartman.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Susan Eldridge, Uniontown Alumni Association, Raymond “Skeet” George, Uniontown Ruritan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

Susan Eldridge, Uniontown Alumni Association asked for permission to hold the all school reunion in the city park the evening of Saturday, September 3, 2022.  They will provide insurance certificate.  They request that the ban on alcoholic beverages in the park be lifted for that evening and want to know if there are any other limitations.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second  by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to allow Uniontown Alumni Association to host all school reunion in the city park on September 3, 2022, allow alcohol consumption from 5PM to Midnight, and no glass containers allowed

 

Raymond “Skeet” George, Ruritan – asked the council to recess to view the location for the proposed public restrooms.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to recess for 10 minutes to view 112 Second St

 

Meeting resumed at 7:19.  Mr George asked for action to designate the location for the project.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to allow preliminary planning for construction of an ADA public restroom at northeast corner of 112 Second St

 

Discussion followed regarding funding for the public restroom, pickleball court, and outdoor equipment.  This project qualifies for the placemaking pathway we pledged.  Contact REDI for best time to submit an application for 2022 funding.  ARPA funds could also be used for this.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger was absent. March written Treasurer’s Report and 1st Quarter Report were presented.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $338,643.12, Receipts $52,765.73, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $23,883.18, Checking Account Closing Balance $364,499.67. Bank Statement Balance $364,938.99, including Checking Account Interest of $29.90, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $439.32, Reconciled Balance $364,499.67.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,063.99, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,566.16, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,346.12, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $441,475.94. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $85.61, and Utility CDs $74.84 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $160.45.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of March 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  March Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Total Transfers of $3,026.00.  Net Income for the month of March $25,856.55, Year-to-Date Net Income $40,756.17.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $27,812.18 (26.4%), Expenditures $25,333.54 (19.5%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $8,633.12 (24.2%), Expenditures $11,942.48 (29.1%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $54,144.38 (38.8%), Expenditures $28,296.04 (11.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $49,170.41 (38.3%), Expenditures $29,562.90 (17.9%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $1,814.86 (26.5%), Expenditures $397.28 (3.7%).  The April 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $29,474.19 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of March 8, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent Rich reported that the storage building at 112 Second St has been removed, two gas main valves have been replaced, and the speed bumps/signs have been installed.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that 104 Fulton has been cleaned up by new owner. An issue of trash in a trailer and debris in the back yard at 202 Fourth St was addressed and trailer has been removed.  103 Fifth is being cleaned up by new owner.  He has contacted our attorney twice in the last two months to get something resolved with the Smith Estate with no response back.  301 Second St #1 has a lot of clutter and debris.  Clerk Johnson will contact the attorney to try to speed things up.  It was suggested to schedule a worksession to continue discussion on shipping/storage containers, accessory/storage buildings, fences regulations and citywide solid waste.  It will be scheduled at next meeting.  Councilmember Ervin asked him to go by 301 Second St and address the collection of clutter/debris.

 

Clerk Johnson presented the financial audit contract with minimal increase in cost but less than anticipated in the budget.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept the financial audit engagement letter with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton

 

Loren Korte was here with the insurance renewal and went over changes with Clerk Johnson.  Overall increase in premiums is 6.74% but less than anticipated in the budget.  He will present to council if needed.  Council concurred it was not needed.

Rabies clinic was April 9 with a good turnout.  Thirteen dogs and seven cats were registered at the clinic.  Clerk Johnson presented a list of animals registered last year that are not yet registered this year, a list of new residents that need a reminder that dogs and cats are required to be registered, and a list of those that have registered but not provided proper rabies documentation.  She will go over this list with Animal Control Officer Binford to get citations issued.

Kansas Municipal Utilities conference in April 27-29 in Wichita which also includes the KMGA Board of Directors meeting and an afternoon of sessions on gas.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to allow Bobby Rich and/or Sally Johnson to attend the KMU conference in Wichita, April 27-29, if they choose

 

KMGA will be hosting regional meetings this year.  The one for our area will be in Humboldt on July 14.  Will put on the agenda again in June.  Clerk Johnson also presented a market update from KMGA.

Midwest Assistance Program would like to assist communities in the application process for USDA community facility project grants and/or loans.  Clerk Johnson will contact them for more information about what is available and what would be the city’s obligation.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – absent

Mayor Jurgensen – thanked councilmembers and employees that attended the county commission meeting last month.  Asked if fish food has been received.  Clerk Johnson has ordered but it has not been shipped yet, she will follow-up.  He had a request to change elected officials pay to monthly whether attend regular meeting or not which led to a discussion on protocol for elected officials censure or removal.  Clerk Johnson will have the attorney draft an ordinance addressing elected officials pay and protocols.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Wholesale water supply – table until next month.

 

Pond Improvement Project – Invitations to bid should be sent/published next month and the liner needs to be ordered due to shipping times.

 

City Utility Low-Interest Loan update – this does not need to be discussed monthly, put on the agenda quarterly for updates.

 

American Rescue Plan Act update – The annual report has been submitted. There was some discussion about using the funds for the public restrooms, pickleball court, and outdoor exercise equipment.  We will add discussion of the funds to the worksession we schedule next month.

 

Street Repair – Mayor Jurgensen was thanked for asking county commissioners for a commitment to help us on our streets this year at the March 22 commission meeting.  Table further discussion until next month.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:00PM

 

Meeting resumed at 9:00PM.  No action was taken

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Esslinger Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 9:00PM

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of April 12

April 12, 2022 Tuesday 9:00 am
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the
County Clerk present.

Also present for the meeting were, (some were present for a portion of the meeting, some were
present for the entire meeting) Matt Quick, Susan Bancroft, Justin, Meeks, Lora Holdridge, Bill
Martin, Roger Harris, Clint Walker, Anne Dare, Cynthia Stine, Dale Bollinger, Randy Ruby,
Marti Tuchscherer, Patty LaRoche, Nancy Maze, Mark Bolton, Donald Coffman, Tim
Mckenney, Deb Mckenney, Linda Noll, Matt Noll, and Dale Arnold.

Clifton made a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes, Lynne seconded. All approved.

Eric Bailey presented 2 permits: The first permit was Craw-Kan for a utility permit for fiber
installation on Locust Rd and Limestone Rd. Clifton made a motion to approve the permit for
Craw-Kan as stated by Eric Bailey. Lynne seconded. All approved. The second permit was for
Don Garrett/Brad Bradley for a culvert permit for new installation at 35th & Yellowstone Rd.
Clifton made a motion to approve the permit at 35th and Yellowstone as stated by Eric Bailey.
Lynne seconded. All approved.

Eric informed that there is decking loose on a bridge between Birch and Calvary and 120th and
130th. He said it is closed today for repair should be done today and back open. Eric said that
KDOT is in the area and are doing traffic counts in the county in case anyone sees them. He said
that the composting permit for landfill is still in process and has not been approved yet. There is
another review process that needs to be completed before it can be approved. Eric said that
before he gets a bunch of calls on Arrowhead there had been dust control done years ago and
they are tearing it up to fix potholes and turn it back to gravel they, are not paving that road. Eric
informed the commission that there are a few from his department as well as himself that are
going to be attending a training on Thursday in Chanute and has to do with signs as well as other
things. Eric is finalizing the punch list on the windmill project and working with Justin to get the
roads turned back over to county.

Hard surface roads were discussed as to what needed to be completed this year. Jim explained
that there is a sales tax for that purpose and each district get one third of it. Jim said that for his
district he would like to see 195th on the East side of Fort Scott Lake as well as 215th from Indian
to 39 Hwy. Lynne said he would like to see Maple between Uniontown and Bronson, Yale road
and Yellowstone that was tore up and left gravel repaved at Hidden Valley Lake. He also said
that if there was any money left, he would like to see 125th between 54 Hwy and Maple Road.
Eric presented some information on a company called Onyx that is a turnkey operation that
would replace chip and seal and extend the life of the road and hopefully that will help give more
time to resurface the road on a schedule to keep them maintained better. Clifton said that he
would like to see a plan that looked at what roads are the worst and heaviest traveled and have a
plan based on that and not worry about each district getting the exact same amount of money. He
said that all of the road mentioned need fixed and they need a plan to do it even if it isn’t divided
evenly. He said that the roads he would like to look at in his district would be Old 69 Hey
between Fort Scott and Fulton and Soldier Road east of Hammond. He said he didn’t get any
money for his district last year because another district needed it more and that is how it should
be done and he would like to see a plan based like that. The commissioners asked Eric to bring a
plan for review but Jim and Lynne both agreed they would like to keep their portion in their own
district unless Clifton needs some since he gave up his last year. The commissioners, Eric Bailey,
and Dustin Hall discussed ways that they could possibly make the money go further and make
the roads last longer with the money that they have available.

Multiple community members were in attendance that expressed concerns for roads in their areas
of the county.

Lynne said he was approached by a patron in Uniontown about tires. I would like permission to
go talk with Ol’ Boy Tires. Clifton made a motion to allow Lynne to go visit with a local
business in Uniontown. Jim seconded. All approved.

Jim asked Eric about putting up the signs previously discussed. Eric said with this being a short
week they would get them up next week.

Lora Holdridge requested an executive session. Clifton made a motion for an executive session
KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect
their privacy including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks, Lora Holdridge and
Shane Walker for 10 minutes returning at 10:18am to this room. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 10:18am with no action. Lynne seconded.
All approved.

Lynne made a motion to amend agenda moving County Counselor to the end of the session.
Clifton seconded. All approved.

Ashley presented an agreement from Tri-Valley for appropriations of $55,000.00 which is what
was budgeted. This agreement is a renewal from previous year. Clifton made a motion to
approve the agreement. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Susan received notice that we did not receive the base grant which was for the Spyder parking
lot. We’ll have to figure out other ways to do that. That’s the 1st federal grant that you didn’t
receive. She did some checking and no one in Bourbon County or the City received any grant
funding. Susan said she would make some phone calls and find out why. Susan requested an
executive session regarding nonelected personnel for 15 minutes. Clifton made a motion for an
executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected
personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks, and
Dave Bruner for 15 minutes returning to this room at 10:37am. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 10:37am with no action. Lynne seconded.
All approved.

Clifton made a motion to allow Mr. Judy for public comment. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Mr. Judy asked if the handicapped ramps could be fixed. Lynne stated that we are in the process
of fixing those.

Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters
of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Justin
Meeks, Susan Bancroft, and Shane Walker for 20 minutes returning to this room at 11:01am.
Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 11:01am
with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Susan stated that we took quotes for mowing at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. They were due today
at 10am. Phillips Lawn Care had the lowest per occurrence quote at $500. With the unknowns
of the property we would do at on a month-to-month basis until we figure some things out.
Clifton made a motion to accept the quote from Phillips to mow on a per time as needed basis.
Lynne seconded. All approved. Susan stated that we are looking at possible funding we need
from ARPA funds for EMS. Dave Bruner left some information with me and each commissioner
received a copy. I would like a week to look through and see if it meets all the obligations and
then come back with a proposal on potential ARPA funding. We had a couple hundred thousand
left over from last year’s funds that could possibly help us with some urgent need items for EMS.
They are looking at needing to possibly replace one of the ambulances in the near future, but we
are two years out on a brand new. If we did a remount, it would be 13 months. If we book this
year, we have to pay the entire thing or we could go with a lease purchase which I would
recommend with the unknowns today. Rob Harrington mentioned that there might be a USDA
grant that we are going to look into that and bring information to you next week. Jim asked how
things were coming on the north sidewalk and parking. Susan stated that they looked at it last
week and they are getting ready to give us the engineering report and then we’ll put it out to bid.

Public Comment: Clint Walker talked about an $89 million dollar transmission line project. The
Kansas Corporation Commission has made the decision and no local government has any say in
it whether being a zoned or non-zoned county. Michael Hoyt restated his request that he made a
Uniontown that the commission provide in advance documents that would allow the public to
participate in the budgeting process. There is a public hearing portion of the budget process and
there’s not much we can do if we don’t have the information ahead of time. It is imperative that
this happens.

Susan asked the commissioners to give her authority to go talk to the city manager regarding
EMS.

Elected Official Comment: Who does the grants for the County? Is it internal or outside? Susan
stated it is internal. Bill stated that grants are starting to be available. He would like information
as to why grants are turned down and that information can be passed on to their grant writers for
future.

Commission Comment: Clifton made a motion for Susan to be able to talk to the city manager
concerning EMS. Lynne seconded. All approved. Jim stated that KDOT will be hosting a
region 4 commission road supervisor meeting in Chanute on April 21 at 9am. I am planning to
attend and hope the other two commissioners will consider attending. Eric is planning to attend.
Susan is going as well. Jim made a motion that all commissioners be allowed to attend the
meeting. Clifton seconded. All approved.

Anne dare asked about evening meetings. Garland will be contacted to schedule for April 26th.
May 17th is scheduled at the courthouse at 6pm.

County Counsel Comments: Justin requested an executive session. Clifton made a motion for
an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade
secrets or corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships including 3
commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Rob Harrington, and Justin Meeks for 15

minutes returning to this room at 11:28am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a
motion to return to normal session at 11:28am with action. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Clifton made a motion to allow Susan to visit with CEO of Via Christi Hospital concerning
contracts. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Clifton made a motion for an 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 3 commissioners, Rob Harrington, Susan Bancroft, and Justin Meeks
for 10 minutes returning to this room at 11:41am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made
a motion to return to normal session at 11:41am with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved.

At 11:42pm, Lynne made a motion to adjourn. Clifton seconded. All approved.

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Jim Harris, Chairman

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner

___________________, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Clerk

April 19, 2022, Approved Date

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Weekly Newsletter

Happy Easter!

Christ the Lord Is Risen

Lives again our glorious King,
Where O death is now thy sting?
Dying once He all doth save,
Where thy victory, O grave?

Love’s redeeming work is done,
Fought the fight, the battle won,
Death in vain forbids Him rise,
Christ has opened paradise.

Soar we now where Christ has led,
Following our exalted Head,
Made like him, like Him we rise,
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies.

 

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Visiting Cottonwood Complex Fire Damage in Reno County

In early March, a massive wildfire, now known as the “Cottonwood Complex fire,” ravaged parts of Reno County. Residents had to evacuate their homes, and 95 homes, 92 outbuildings and 110 vehicles were destroyed in the blaze. One life was tragically lost.

On Monday, I was welcomed by Chief Steven Beer of the Hutchinson Fire Department and Reno County Emergency Manager Adam Weishaar, who introduced me to the men and women who risk their lives to serve and protect their community. This was an opportunity for me to say thank you to these firefighters. They deserve respect and support, especially as we see more dry and windy conditions each year. We must stay vigilant and practice caution when our weather conditions are conducive to producing these destructive wildfires. In December, we saw several major fires spread out over multiple western Kansas counties. And in recent years, we suffered record-breaking wildfires in Barber County in 2016 and Clark County in 2017.

There are mitigation programs that local, state and federal governments can work together on to help reduce this risk that we face too frequently these days. I was able to take away from this meeting a few objectives, including making sure that funds are available to reduce the invasive eastern red cedars which dominate and choke out much of Kansas’ prairie vegetation.

I am grateful to Fire Chief Beer for allowing me to come to Hutchinson and thank the local first responders, but I recognize that there are so many more that have aided in Reno County’s recovery than the few I was able to visit with on Monday. To those communities near and far who sent your firefighters to Reno County to assist and save lives and property last month: thank you. Your kindness and concern for our neighbors makes me proud to represent such great people. Thank you also to Reno County Commissioner Daniel Friesen and Administrator Randy Partington for joining on the visit and to those who provided me an update on the ongoing efforts to keep the Hutchinson community safe. Watch here or below.

 

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Dreams Worth Chasing: Hosting Former Astronaut Dr. Janet Kavandi in Hutchinson

Discussing STEM Education and Inspiring the Next Generation at the Cosmosphere
This week, I hosted former astronaut Dr. Janet Kavandi to speak to area elementary school students at the Cosmosphere and discuss with them the importance of STEM education. Dr. Kavandi shared her upbringing in Carthage, Missouri and how she was selected to be an astronaut in 1994. She was a mission specialist on three Space Shuttle missions and has spent more than a month in space. Dr. Kavandi is current the president of Sierra Space Corporation and shares my goal of inspiring the next generation.

 

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I was pleased that she was able to share her story and take questions from local students, and the Cosmosphere was the perfect place to host an event like this. The Cosmosphere has been a hub for scientific inspiration and educational innovation for the Hutchinson community, for Kansas and for those who come to visit from across the globe since its founding in 1962. From the digital dome theater to the planetarium to the Hall of Space Museum and hands-on lab, the Cosmosphere does an incredible job getting kids and adults alike interested in science and space.

The students were also given a spacecraft tour after they asked Dr. Kavandi questions about being an astronaut. Through my role on the appropriations committee that provides resources to NASA, I have made certain that STEM education is always a priority. Thank you to Dr. Kavandi for speaking to students in Kansas and for helping me inspire future scientists, engineers and astronauts. I also want to thank Jim Remar at the Cosmosphere and their incredible staff for hosting us.

 

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Reception
On Wednesday evening, I also invited Dr. Kavandi to speak at the Cosmosphere regarding her experience as an astronaut and share about her exciting work as president of Sierra Space Corporation. We were joined by community leaders, Cosmosphere Board of Directors, staff and many others interested in space. Thank you again to Dr. Kavandi for joining us and to Jim Remar for hosting the event.

 

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Speaking with Ag Leaders

Prairie Land Electric Coop Annual Meeting
It was great to be in Norton on Tuesday to speak at the Prairie Land Electric Coop annual meeting. We discussed the need for America to produce enough energy to meet our own needs and not be dependent on foreign suppliers like Russia for our energy. We also discussed issues affecting coops like Prairie Land, including access to supplies to repair damaged powerline infrastructure due to extreme weather and the challenges of keeping electricity affordable and reliable for its members and owners. I discussed my Flexible Financing for Rural America Act, legislation which would allow electric cooperatives to reprice Rural Utilities Service (RUS) loans to take advantage of lower interest rates. Taking advantage of lower rates would allow for better cash-flow management, investment in rural communities, and more savings for consumers.

I appreciate the coop for letting me join their meeting and for giving me an update on the issues they are currently facing. Thank you to Ronald Griffith, president of the board, for inviting me to speak.

 

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Prairie Horizon Agri-Energy
I also visited Prairie Horizon Agri-Energy, an ethanol plant outside Phillipsburg, to tour the business and learn more about its contributions to the ethanol industry. Each year, it produces more than 40 million gallons of ethanol which yields 127,000 tons of high protein livestock feed as a byproduct.

While at the plant, it was useful to hear about their plan to construct a new state-of-the-art wheat protein ingredients facility that will create over 60 new jobs. The company plans to retrofit the plant to accommodate wheat-based ethanol production in the future. Once complete, Prairie Horizon will boast the largest wheat protein facility in North America.

Thank you to Plant Manager Kevin Morgan, Chief Operating Officer Steve Adams, Senior Director Kevin Bogenreif and President Justin Kirchhoff for showing me around the plant and discussing the Summit Agricultural Group’s investment plans. This is an exciting time for Prairie Horizon, and I appreciated Kansas State Senator Rick Billinger, Representative Ken Rahjes and local community leader Denis Miller joining us for the tour.

 

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Visiting with High School Students

Buhler
On Monday, I was pleased to spend part of my afternoon with Buhler high schoolers. I greatly appreciated listening to Mr. Bontrager’s freshman choir and speaking with student leaders Jaylee, Kaden and Tanner as they showed me their school.

 

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Chanute
While I was in Chanute on Wednesday, I spoke with students at Chanute High. I enjoyed seeing all aspects of the school, from visiting their greenhouse to stopping into an art class and a biomedical science class. We discussed the importance of career technical education and STEM, and the opportunities for students to start their careers right here in Kansas. Teachers play a vital role in the development of students across our state, and I thank Superintendent Dr. Kellen Adam, Principal Zach Murray and Assistant Principal Tyler Applegate for speaking with me and for the care they put into educating young Kansans. Thank you to student leaders Carson and Emma for showing me their school. Read more about my visit from the Chanute Tribune here.

 

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Touring Medical Facilities Across Kansas

Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center
This week, I was pleased to be at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute to announce new federal investments in its Imaging Department. Over the past year, I’ve worked closely with Neosho Memorial regarding its need for a new nuclear imaging machine, which is important to providing care for cancer patients, as the existing machine reached the end of its life cycle. It was great to be able to be in Chanute to discuss the importance of both a new SPECT nuclear medicine imaging machine and improvements to the Imaging Department wing to accommodate more patients.

Neosho Memorial provides nuclear medicine and essential cancer detection services to its community, and this new life-saving technology and improvements will allow them to continue to do so for years to come. This is a community-driven solution to the barriers to care so often faced by rural Kansans.

Thank you to Neosho Memorial CEO Dennis Franks and Hospital Foundation Director Anna Methvin for the opportunity to be a part of this grand opening ceremony and for your continued efforts to provide health care services to southeast Kansas.

 

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Rice County District Hospital
I also visited Rice County District Hospital. George Stover, CEO of the hospital, walked me through the facility as we discussed the current condition of rural health care. Kansas officially moved from a pandemic response posture to treating the virus as an endemic disease. However, the CMS vaccine mandate has increased administrative burdens, and rural facilities are still struggling with financial stress as a result of the pandemic. I will continue relaying these concerns to the Department of Health and Human Services and working to ensure Kansas hospitals have the support needed to serve their communities. Thank you to Judy Hodgson, George Stover and Terry Pound for their time visiting with me.

 

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Commemorating Brown v. Board of Education Sites 

The Senate recently and unanimously passed legislation to commemorate the historic sites that contributed to the 1954 landmark Supreme Court decision, Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. This legislation will expand the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site to include historic sites in South Carolina and designate National Park Service (NPS) Affiliated Areas in other states. It would recognize the importance of the additional sites that catalyzed litigation in Delaware, South Carolina, Kansas, Virginia and the District of Columbia by designating them NPS Affiliated Areas, and expand the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka.

Kansan Linda Brown and her parents took their case all the way to the Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education, leading to the unanimous overturn of the ‘separate but equal’ doctrine that discriminated against school children because of their skin color. I look forward to the President signing this legislation into law to expand and preserve the historic sites in Kansas and around the country connected to this case. Kansas has played a key role in the civil rights movement, and we must seek to preserve this legacy which calls on all Americans to uphold the self-evident truth that all men and women are created equal. The bill text is available here.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately funded nonprofit organization that works to save America’s historic places.

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is a multi-year initiative led by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in partnership with the Ford Foundation, the JPB Foundation, the Open Society Foundations and other partners, working to make an important and lasting contribution to our cultural landscape by elevating the stories and places of African American achievement and activism.

 

Honoring Veterans Who Helped with Evacuations from Afghanistan

As ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I introduced a resolution honoring the veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and civilian volunteers who organized evacuations during our withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021.

 

Our military personnel worked tirelessly to coordinate flights in and out of Kabul, but another force behind these efforts lies with groups of veteran volunteers who refused to leave their Afghan partners behind. These volunteer veteran groups shared information, drafted flight manifests and coordinated food and supplies to be delivered to families who were in hiding. Without these volunteers, many Afghan men, women and children would have suffered greatly or lost their life. This week, we offered this resolution to officially recognize and thank the veteran volunteers for their efforts to save their Afghan partners from the clutches of the Taliban. The resolution can be found here.

 

Demanding Answers on Changes to Border Security Policies

This week, I led 12 of my colleagues in seeking answers from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on recent changes to how the department enforces border security and processes migrants at the southern border. In FY2021, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recorded 1.7 million encounters with individuals attempting to cross the border illegally, the highest single year total ever recorded. Even more troubling is the fact that this year is on pace to far exceed the record-breaking numbers from last year.

This administration’s continued push to weaken our immigration enforcement, through moves like rescinding the Title 42 public health order, de-prioritization of those eligible for arrest and removal and drastically altering how America grants asylum, is reckless and dangerous. Currently, tens of thousands of migrants are gathering at our Southern border and the policies of the Biden administration are only fueling the impending surge, presenting a serious threat to public safety and will lead to an even greater humanitarian crisis. Read my full letter here.

 

Graham County Listening Tour Stop

I held a listening tour stop in Hill City this week, where I had the opportunity to speak to and hear from Graham County residents. We discussed the importance of supporting our law enforcement community, Putin’s evil in Ukraine and the United States’ humanitarian efforts to help Ukrainian citizens. I heard concerns regarding border security and the administration’s decision to terminate the Title 42 Order, as well as concerns surrounding local nursing home operations. I was also able to announce federal investments in Graham County Sheriff’s Office to update its mobile communications technology and help as they carry out their duties.

Thank you to Jim Logback for his years of support, to those who took time to share their concerns with me and to Cole Presley, Graham County Sheriff and President of the Kansas Sheriff’s Association for being in attendance.

 

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Visit to Kansas City VA Medical Center

On Friday, I visited Kansas City VA Medical Center where I spoke with KCVA Director Jean Gurga and Assistant Director Ryan Locascio. KCVA plays a vital role in the health care of veterans living in and around eastern Kansas and western Missouri, providing service to over 50,000 veterans each year. I expressed my commitment to working on and passing legislation for toxic-exposed veterans. When our men and women are injured or become ill because of their military service, it is our responsibility to see they receive the health care and benefits they deserve. It is the right thing to do and the cost of going to war.

The facility offers a full range of services with state-of-the-art technology as well as education and research. We discussed the research projects KCVA is conducting, the importance of their community-based outpatient clinics and my veterans’ mental health care legislation.

As ranking member of the Senate VA Committee, I am committed to bolstering the quality of care provided to those who have served and sacrificed.

 

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Visiting Prairie View

From City Hall to the businesses along Main Street, thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to speak with me when I stopped into Prairie View this week.

 

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Passover

Happy Passover to the families and friends who gathered for Seders in Kansas and around the world on Friday evening. Chag Pesach Sameach!

 

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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

To unsubscribe from this newsletter, please click here.

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Shane Walker Begins As New Fort Scott City Commissioner

Shane Walker, 53, is the new Fort Scott City Commissioner, replacing Pete Allen who resigned last month.

Walker is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Bourbon County.

He has 10 years experience in a corporate setting, five years running his own business and 18 years of local government experience, he said. He has also been a firefighter for 10 years and has served on a regional Homeland Security board through the State of Kansas.

Walker’s education history involves multiple schools and programs mainly in information technology from IBM, Cisco, Sun and Microsoft.

Currently, he is involved in the community as a part of Gunn Park Trails, a volunteer mountain bike trail group; is the local Historic Preservation Association Vice President and is in the Knights of Columbus.

He and his wife have four daughters.

Walker applied for the city commissioner vacancy because he wants to “help make Fort Scott a better place that my kids want to come back to, after college, and live.”

His first meeting as a commissioner was April 5.

The duties of Fort Scott City Commissioners are to set policy, procedures and budgets, he said.

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 123 S. Main.

KS Governor Vetoes Bills

Governor Laura Kelly Signs Redistricting Maps for State House, Senate, Board of Education

~~Governor Vetoes S Sub For HB 2448, H Sub for Sub SB 286, SB 58, and SB 160~~

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly signed the redistricting maps for the Kansas state House of Representatives, the Kansas state Senate, and the Kansas Board of Education into law and vetoed Senate Sub for House Bill 2448, House Sub for Sub Senate Bill 286, Senate Bill 58, and Senate Bill 160.

The following veto message is from Governor Laura Kelly regarding her veto of S Sub for House Bill 2448:

“Every Kansan feels the price of the pandemic-induced inflation at the pumps and at the grocery store. The cost of food alone is one of the most significant contributors to inflation overall.

“With the rising costs of these necessities, we should be helping people afford the basics. This bill would unnecessarily burden nearly 30,000 hard-working Kansans, including people caring for their families and impacting those with children.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto S Sub for House Bill 2448.”

The following veto message is from Governor Laura Kelly regarding her veto of H Sub for Sub Senate Bill 286:

“This bill includes valuable provisions that I support, such as expanding telemedicine and criminal penalties for violence against health care workers in hospital settings.

“During the pandemic, I worked with hospitals, frontline care workers, and stakeholders on a narrowly tailored compromise to protect our doctors and nurses responding to COVID-19 while ensuring Kansas patients still had appropriate protections. This was important for those working around the clock, caring for our loved ones during the height of the pandemic.

“However, a last-minute provision was inserted into this bill which gutted our original carefully crafted compromise and indiscriminately broadened protections for health care providers, substantially reducing protections for Kansas patients.

“I will work with the Legislature in a bipartisan fashion on a bill that returns the liability provisions to the original compromise language and include the provisions for telemedicine and enhanced criminal penalties for violence against health care workers in hospital settings so that both Kansas patients and our hard-working healthcare providers are protected.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto H Sub for Sub Senate Bill 286.”

 

The following veto message is from Governor Laura Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 58:

“Throughout the pandemic, parents had to step up and do the impossible. Go to work. Take care of their children. Teach, tutor and facilitate their children’s learning. When it comes to their children’s education, parents can and should play a vital role. We know that parental engagement in their child’s education greatly impacts the outcome.

“This bill, however, is about politics, not parents. Over one hundred Kansas parents testified against this bill. It would create more division in our schools and would be costly. Money that should be spent in the classroom would end up being spent in the courtroom.

“That’s unacceptable, especially after our efforts to bring Democrats and Republicans together to fully fund our schools for the last four years.

“I look forward to working with the Legislature in a bipartisan fashion on a bill that gives parents a seat at the table without harming school funding or exacerbating the issues facing our teachers.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 58.”

The following veto message is from Governor Laura Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 160:

“Both Republican and Democratic Governors have joined me in vetoing similar divisive bills for the same reasons: it’s harmful to students and their families and it’s bad for business.

“We all want a fair and safe place for our kids to play and compete. However, this bill didn’t come from the experts at our schools, our athletes, or the Kansas State High School Activities Association. It came from politicians trying to score political points.

“This bill would also undoubtedly harm our ability to attract and retain businesses. It would send a signal to prospective companies that Kansas is more focused on unnecessary and divisive legislation than strategic, pro-growth lawmaking.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 160.”

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for April 19

Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: April 19, 2022

1st DistrictLynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd DistrictJim Harris Corrected: _______________________

3rd DistrictClifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________

County ClerkAshley Shelton

MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM

Call to Order

Flag Salute

Approval of Minutes from previous meeting

Eric Bailey Road and Bridge Report

Lora Holdridge Road Closure

Bill Martin Equitable Sharing Agreement & Certification

County Counselor Comment

Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment

Public Comment

Elected Officials Comment

Commission Comment
Attachments:

Equitable Sharing Agreement _ Certification

New KS Bill to Allow APRNs To Pracitice Independently

Governor Laura Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Removing Barriers to Health Care

~~ Senate Substitute for House Bill 2279 Allows Advanced Practice Registered Nurses to Provide More Care to Kansans~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that she signed Senate Substitute for House Bill 2279. The bipartisan bill expands access to health care in Kansas by removing barriers, allowing advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) to practice independently.

“Kansas, like so many other states, is experiencing a health care shortage – especially in rural parts of the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This will improve the availability of high-quality health care by empowering APRNs to reduce local and regional care gaps.”

“This bill will increase access to care for all Kansans, many of whom rely on safe and expert APRN care today,” Amy Siple, APRN, president of Kansas Advanced Practice Nurses Association, said. We applaud Governor Kelly and the Kansas legislature for taking this step towards greater access, quality outcomes, and reduced regulatory barriers. As the 26th state to remove these barriers for APRNs, Kansas demonstrates a commitment to improving the health of its citizens.”

Senate Sub. for HB 2279 requires an APRN to maintain malpractice insurance and national certification for initial licensure as an APRN. It also requires that these medical professionals comply with federal Drug Enforcement Administration requirements related to controlled substances to prescribe controlled substances.

Additional information about Senate Sub for HB 2279 can be found here.

FSCC Minutes of March 21

FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Minutes of the Board of Trustees Working Session
March 21, 2022

4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

PRESENT: John Bartelsmeyer, Dave Elliott, Jim Fewins, Kirk Hart, Bryan Holt, and Robert Nelson

ALSO PRESENT: Alysia Johnston, President, Juley McDaniel, Board Clerk, Janet Fancher, Adam Borth, Tom Havron,
Julie Eichenberger, Kris Mengarelli, Ralph Beacham, Jordan Howard, Jason Simon, Chris Larsen

AGENDA:

Mission/Vision Overview, Alysia Johnston, 1
Strategic Plan Report, Ralph Beacham, 18
Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT), Crawford Tech Ed Center, Kris Mengarelli, 38
Nursing Program/Collaboration with CHC of SEK, Jordan Howard, 46
Higher Ed Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF)/Deferred Maintenance Projects, Julie Eichenberger, 54
Housing/Greyhound Fitness Center/Foundation update, Tom Havron, 65
Bailey Hall Re-model/Migrant Programs, Janet Fancher, 71
New Programs, Adam Borth, 82
Vision & Mission Summary/Suggestions, Board of Trustees

ALYSIA JOHNSTON – MISSION/VISION OVERVIEW
Reviewed mission statement and core values. The greatest asset at FSCC is personnel.
We’ll come back in June for another working session for the Board to evaluate where all this
information fits with the mission and vision, along with budget.

Mission statement
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of
culture and diversity that provides affordable academic, technical, and occupational
programs to meet student needs while fostering a mutually supportive relationship between
the college and its communities.
Core Values:

Personal success and growth: Empower students, community, and employees to
attain their goals by providing opportunities in a supportive, safe environment.
Integrity and Respect: A focus on communication, relationships and experiences
that value students, community, and employees; fostering a safe environment for
all.
Diversity and Inclusion: Operate as one college in purpose, plans, priorities, and
processes.
Stewardship: The careful, transparent, and responsible management of all
resources under our care, including monetary, physical, and human resources.

Vision:
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a
central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and
departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective
processes; and developing the region’s workforce.
16

Reviewed capital improvement projects for 2021-2023 using COVID grant funding. Among other
qualifiers, anything done to spread students out or renovate HVAC systems qualified for use of
HEERF funds.
FSCC received $5,085,879, and $2,715,070 has been spent thus far. Projects include:

Robert Nelson commented that FSCC hasn’t had so many projects going on at the same time, and
it’s great that so many things are going. Alysia credited the staff involved handling the projects and
attributed the timelines of the projects to completion time frames required by the grants.
Shared Strategic Plan document. Ralph will follow up with more information regarding the
Strategic Plan.
27

Agenda for Fort Scott Community College Trustee Meeting April 18

The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday, April 18, 2022.

The Board departs FSCC at 4:00 p.m., tour the Harley facility, and
proceed to the Crawford Technical Education Center (CTEC) in Pittsburg.

Upon arrival at CTEC, dinner will be served, and the regular board meeting will be conducted.

Depart Fort Scott Community College to Harley, then to CTEC
Dinner at CTEC at 5:00 followed by regular board meeting at 5:30 p.m.

THE AGENDA

5:30 ROLL CALL, 3

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

CALL TO ORDER, 4

A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
C. Tour of CTEC Facility

CONSENT AGENDA, 5

A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Board Work Session and Regular Meeting conducted
on March 21, 2022, 6 and 88
C. Approval of Treasurer’s Report, Bills, and Claims, 91
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5

ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS, 150

A. Consideration of Greyhound Lodge Renovation Bids, 150
B. Consideration of Memorandum of Understanding with Southeast Kansas Education
Service Center (Greenbush), 153
C. Consideration of Food Service Agreement, 156
D. Confirmation of Emeritus Status Retirees, 163

ITEMS FOR REVIEW, 164
REPORTS, 180
A. Administrative Updates, 180
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 193
ADJOURNMENT, 194
1

CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
1) Attached are the minutes of the Board Work Session and Regular Board Meeting
conducted on March 21, 2022.
C. APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT, BILLS and CLAIMS
Attached are the Treasurer’s Report and the Bills and Claims Report.

D. APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTIONS
1) Transfers
a) Tom Havron, from VP of Student Affairs/Athletic Director to VP of StudentAffairs/Foundation Director, effective upon hire and training of new Athletic Director

2) Separations
a) Denissa Rivas, Music Instructor, effective May 14, 2022
4.18.22 Consent Agenda-14.18.22 Consent Agenda-1
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Consent Agenda items be approved as
presented.

BOARD ACTION: MOTION _____ SECOND _____ VOTE _____

DISCUSSION:

VOTE: Bartelsmeyer Elliott Fewins

Hart Holt Nelson
To view the entire 194 page agenda:

U234 Board of Education: New Principals, New Teachers

NEWS RELEASE

 

Monday, April 11, 2022

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at the Board of Education office on Monday, April 11, 2022, for their regular monthly meeting.

President James Wood opened the meeting.  The board approved the official agenda.  The board also approved the consent agenda as follows:

 

A.    Minutes

B.    Bills and Claims

C.    Payroll – March 10, 2022 – $1,437,997.40

D.    Financial Report

E.     Activity fund accounts­­­­­­

F.     FCCLA Fundraiser Application

G.    Parent/Teacher Conference statistics

H.    KASB Dues and Legal Assistance Fund

I.      Negotiations lists for 2022-23

J.      Use of a school bus for the Class of 1966 for June 25

K.    Memorandum of Understanding with Greenbush Food Purchasing Consortium

L.     Extended Trip Application – Film Festival Competition

 

The Fort Scott High School Sociology students gave a presentation on Hats in School.  They reported their research, observations, and surveys for allowing students to wear hats to school.

Board members approved Resolution 21-12 Authorizing and Providing for the Sale, Issuance, and Delivery of Taxable General Obligation Refunding Bonds.

Brenda Hill, Fort Scott KNEA President, gave a report on year-end activities.

Written reports were shared by principals.

In addition, the board heard a report from Dalaina Smith, Academics Director.  Board members approved a PLC Summer Institute for teachers.

Ted Hessong, Superintendent; and Gina Shelton, Finance Director/Board Clerk. presented reports.

Board members approved the following items:

·       Academic calendar for the 2022-23 school year

·       High School course changes/additions for the 2022-23 school year

·       Make-up snow days

·       Virtual Academy Memorandum of Understanding with Greenbush

 

Superintendent Hessong gave an ESSER III update.

The board approved a Benchmark change order to add Winfield Scott roofing to the bid documents.

Board members shared comments and then went into executive session to discuss personnel matters for nonelected personnel.  The board returned to open meeting and amended the agenda.  Board members approved the creation of a board-member committee to have exit interviews with administrators.  The committee would consist of four board members in a special meeting with an executive session.  The board approved the following employment matters:

 

A.    Resignation of Melissa Miller, Winfield Scott Principal, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

B.    Resignation of Martin Altieri, Winfield Scott Assistant Principal, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

C.    Resignation of Andrea Scott, Fort Scott Preschool Principal/Special Education Coordinator, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

D.    Resignation of Abby Dixon, Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

E.     Resignation of Kerry Pommier, Eugene Ware counselor, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

F.     Resignation of Torrie Singmaster, Winfield Scott first grade teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

G.    Resignation of Kelcy Schnaufer, preschool teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

H.    Resignation of Travis Toth, high school social science teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

I.      Resignation of Renee Scales, middle school special education teacher, effective May 17, 2022

J.      Resignation of Lindsay Knopp, Winfield Scott second grade teacher, effective May 13, 2022

K.    Resignation of Shytanna Reed, middle school paraprofessional, effective March 15, 2022

L.     Resignation of Elizabeth Rose, preschool paraprofessional, effective May 13, 2022

M.   Resignation of Shana Staton, preschool paraprofessional, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

N.    Resignation of Afton Brown, Winfield Scott paraprofessional, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

O.    Termination of Adrianne Wisdom, high school paraprofessional, effective February 17, 2022

P.     Transfer of Jamie Rogers, middle school math teacher, to high school math teacher for the 2022-23 school year

Q.    Transfer of Ashlea Taylor, Winfield Scott special education teacher, to first grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year; transfer of Kaitlin Arnold, Winfield Scott first grade teacher, to second grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year; transfer of Tyler Ericson, Winfield Scott first grade teacher, to second grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

R.    Transfer of Kim Eastwood, Winfield Scott second grade teacher, to Eugene Ware music teacher for the 2022-23 school year

S.     Transfer of Madeline Martin to the high school counselor position for the 2022-23 school year

T.     Transfer of Angie DeLaTorre, Eugene Ware secretary, to high school secretary/registrar for the 2022-23 school year

U.    Transfer of Brandi Pitts, high school custodian, to central office head custodian, effective May 13, 2022

V.    Employment of David Heidrick as a middle school special education teacher for the 2022-23 school year

W.  Employment of Michael Durnell as a high school math teacher for the 2022-23 school year

X.    Employment of Sydney Crapson as a Winfield Scott first grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

Y.    Employment of Evangelina Korinke as a Winfield Scott first grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

Z.     Employment of Anna Kim as a Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

AA.                   Employment of Abigail Duffy as a Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

BB.                    Employment of Kim Carpenter as a Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

CC.                    Employment of Toni Burton as a middle school part-time teacher aide for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

DD.                               Employment of Angela Colvin as a middle school paraprofessional for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

EE.            Employment of Sean Herring as a Eugene Ware 6.5-hour cook for the 2022-23 school year

FF. Employment of Fort Scott Preschool Center licensed staff for the 2022-23 school year

GG.                   Employment of Winfield Scott licensed staff for the 2022-23 school year

HH.                               Employment of Eugene Ware licensed staff for the 2022-23 school year

II.                Employment of Fort Scott Middle School licensed staff for the 2022-23 school year

JJ.   Employment of Fort Scott High School licensed staff for the 2022-23 school year

KK.                               Employment of licensed special education and technology staff for the 2022-23 school year

LL.Transfer of Erin Campbell, Winfield Scott paraprofessional, to Eugene Ware paraprofessional for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

MM.                 Transfer of Tiffnie Spears, Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher, to Eugene Ware fourth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

NN.                   Transfer of Jeffery Pommier, Eugene Ware fourth grade teacher, to Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year

OO.                               Transfer of Danielle Cavin, Eugene Ware special education teacher, to Fort Scott Middle School special education teacher for the 2022-23 school year

PP.             Employment of Dale Brauer as a middle school math teacher for the 2022-23 school year

QQ.                   Employment of Lienna Upchurch as a Eugene Ware special education teacher for the 2022-23 school year

RR.                                Employment of Karen Gordon as Eugene Ware counselor for the 2022-23 school year

SS.             Employment of Sierra Muellner as a Winfield Scott low incidence special education teacher for the 2022-23 school year

TT.            Employment of Cynthia Hemphill-Witham as a preschool center paraprofessional for the 2022-23 school year

UU.                   Employment of Angelica Gonzalez as a middle school paraprofessional for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

VV.                   Termination of Susan Karleskint, high school one-day-a-week ESOL teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

WW.                Addition of After-School Program coordinator positions for Winfield Scott, Eugene Ware, and Fort Scott Middle School for the 2022-23 school year

 

The board adjourned.

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of April 5

April 5, 2022 Tuesday at 6 pm
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Commissioner Harris,
Commissioner Oharah and the County Clerk. They were present for the entire meeting.
Commissioner Beth was present for a portion of the meeting.

Also present for the meeting were, (some were present for a portion of the meeting, some were
present for the entire meeting) Matt Quick, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks, Deanne Weir,
Charlotte Ernest, Debra Matt, Earl Capp, Vicki Capp, Kim LaPorte, David Scharenberg, Dan
Laughlin, Steven Hall, Jan Laughlin, Ronald Burton, Jarad Lord, Donald Coffman, Clint Walker,
Mike Hueston, Alyssa Firley, William Peters, Nadine Leach, Butch Leach, Fred Larson,
Woodrow Brown, and Brandon Whisenhunt.

Jim thanked everyone for coming.

Lynne made a motion to approve the previous weeks minutes as well as the work session. Jim
seconded. Jim and Lynne approved.

Eric Bailey presented a permit for Josh Query at 2504 Limestone Rd for an entry culvert. Lynne
made a motion to approve the permit. Jim seconded. Jim and Lynne approved.

Eric reported that they were able to get Elm Creek burned. He said that they have started
crushing at Thomas Quarry. Eric said that Schwab Eaton had been in town looking at the low
water crossings and are finishing up and they should have that report back in about a month. Eric
asked the commissioners if they were still planning to have a hard surface meeting next week.
They all agreed that they wanted to have a meeting next week following the regular commission
meeting. Eric reported that IEA is finishing up on the punch list regarding the windmill project
and should be turning the roads back over soon.

Hay bids were opened. Jim made a motion to approve the highest bid for each property which are
as follows:

Elm Creek Joe Tirri $3357.00

Native Road Steve Sinn $251.00

Tower Steve Sinn $25.00

Lynne seconded. Jim and Lynne approved.

Lynne Made a motion to go into executive session under KSA 75-4319(b) (2) for consultation
with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client
relationship, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in this room and
will be for 7 minutes returning at 6:18 pm and will include Commissioners Harris and Oharah
(Commissioner Beth was not present) and Justin Meeks. Jim seconded and Jim and Lynne
approved.

Lynne made a motion to return to normal session at 6:18 pm with no action. Jim seconded. Jim
and Lynne approved.

Lynne Made a motion to go into executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data
relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual
proprietorships, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in this room at
6:26 pm. Included will be Commissioners Harris and Oharah (Commissioner Beth was not
present), Justin Meeks, and Susan Bancroft. Jim seconded. Jim and Lynne approved.

Lynne made a motion to resume normal session at 6:26 pm with action. Jim seconded. Jim and
Lynne approved. Lynne made a motion to allow Justin Meeks and Susan Bancroft to work
together on a partnership regarding Elm Creek. Jim seconded. Jim and Lynne approved.

Lynne made a motion to go into executive session under KSA 75-4319(b) (1) to discuss
personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel to protect their privacy, the
Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in this room at 6:34 pm. The session
will be for 5 minutes and include Commissioners Harris and Oharah (Commissioner Beth was
not present) Justin Meeks and Susan Bancroft. Jim seconded. Jim and Lynne approved.

Lynne made a motion to resume normal session at 6:34 pm. Jim seconded. Jim and Lynne
approved.

Commissioner Beth joined the meeting.

Justin said that they are asking the commissioners to change the title for Shane Walker to Chief
Information Officer and Susan Bancroft to Chief Financial Officer. He said there is no change in
pay, only the title, and it is to encompass all of their job titles into one. Jim made a motion to
change Shane Walkers title to Chief Information Officer and Susan Bancroft to Chief Financial
Officer. Clifton seconded. All approved.

Susan Bancroft said that she has a letter from I AM REHAB requesting to renew their contract
for another year which would take it through May of 2023. Clifton asked when the contract for
Via Christi renews. Susan said she believed that it was in August. Lynne made a motion to renew
the contract for I AM REHAB for another year. Clifton seconded. All approved.

Susan said that they need to elect one of the commissioners as a voting delegate for the KAC.
She said that they are wanting to add an HR group to the organization and one of them would
need to complete to voting form. Clifton made a motion to allow Jim as the voting delegate for
KAC. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Susan said that based on the appraisal of the medical building done during the feasibility study,
that it appraised for much more than they anticipated and that the amount of insurance needs to
be increased to at least $7 million in coverage on the building itself. Clifton made a motion to
increase the amount of coverage on the medical building to $7 million. Lynne seconded. All
approved.

Susan asked if they would be interested in doing a joint KOMA training with the City of Fort
Scott. Clifton said that he and Lynne had already been through the training and are not interested
in doing it again at this time. Jim said he would possibly participate depending on his schedule.

Public Comment:
Vicki Capp asked what the plan is for Yale Road? Are they going to fix it and repave it or turn it
into gravel and leave it gravel? Eric said that the base on Yale Road is failing and it would have
to be taken back to gravel and the base needs to be rebuilt before it would be able to be repaved.
That is the plan for it, but at this time, nothing has been decided and they are having a meeting
next week to address the plan for hard surface roads. Vicki asked if the one cent sales tax was
still in place to help maintain the road? Susan said that it is still in place but is for all roads. Jim
explained that when the sales tax was passed that it was enough to maintain what was already
paved. Then they added more miles of paved roads and it is hard to keep up with it all and find
money to maintain it all. There are roads in every part of the county that need attention. David
Scharenberg asked if all three of the commissioners supported repaving Yale Road. Lynne said
that has always been his plan was to repave it. Jim said that each district should see 1/3 of the
sales tax money and he would support what Lynne wanted to do with the 1/3 he receives for his
district. Clifton said he had roads in his district that are bad too and need repaired and they would
do the best they could with what they have. There was more discussion regarding the road
conditions in the northwestern part of the county.

Ronald Burton asked about the county helping with Union Street on the edge of Mapleton. Justin
said they cannot do that because it is the city limits and that would be competing with the private
sector. He asked if he could close it to through traffic when it gets too bad? Justin said yes since
it was in the city limits. He asked if he annexed it out of the city then would the county maintain
it? Justin answered that then it would be a county road and they would be responsible for
maintaining it.

Mike Hueston asked if the commission could recap the presentation that was given by Nobel
since they were unable to attend that meeting. Clifton talked about the highlights of the
information given by Noble. Hueston asked about the condition of the ambulance wearing out
and need replaced. Clifton said that this something they will have to evaluate and get a plan in
place. He said that the county has purchased one new ambulance but the others were given by
Mercy and they cannot give them or sell them for a certain timeframe.

Commissioners Comments:

Lynne said that they are working on getting a cell tower up in that area and getting internet for
everyone in that area. He said that he wanted to keep taxes the same and not have to increase
them. He thanked everyone for coming.

Clifton thanked everyone for coming to the meeting.

Jim thanked everyone for coming and was glad they had a good turnout. He said that they are
planning to keep having meetings at outside locations and since they had a good turnout would
be back at Mapleton again. He said that they are going to work hard to keep taxes from raising.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Meeting adjourned at 7:33 pm
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Jim Harris, Chairman

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner

(ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner