Category Archives: Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of Feb. 15

February 15, 2022                                Tuesday 9:00 am

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Deputy Clerk present.

 

Susan Bancroft, Clint Walker, Matt Crystal, Bill Martin, Ben Cole, Shane Walker and Matt Quick were present for some or all of the meeting.

 

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

 

Eric Bailey presented a permit for Eric Gray at 208th & Katy for an entrance tube.  Lynne made a motion to approve the permit.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Eric stated they are prepping for possible storm this week.

 

Eric stated that they had Emshaw training last Thursday at Buck Run.  We had some employees that were getting into the time frame of needing renewal so we got that done.

 

Eric started that Schaub Eaton has started the annual bridge inspections.  We have 139 bridges along with 30 low water structures to be inspected.  We will receive a report when completed.  The bridge at 180th & Birch is being worked on.  Guard rail got hit, the stringer is hanging and the bridge decking is rusting away.  We’ve got the stringer back in place and they’re working on getting the bridge decking back in place.

 

Eric will meet with Jeff Spangler this morning to drive back around looking at the roads following the road use agreement.  Making certain everything is met.

 

Jim asked Eric if he had looked at the road at 230th.  Eric said that would be this morning.

 

Jim gave Eric some information on rock crushers if Eric decides to get a larger one.

 

Clifton made a motion to amend agenda to move the County Counselor time to the bottom of the agenda.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

Susan Bancroft presented resolution 07-22 (ROZ) Rural Opportunity Zone Student Loan Repayment Program Calendar Year 2022.  It is a state program created in 2012 under the Brownback Administration to help those relocating to rural areas.  They have an opportunity, if relocating to KS and have never lived in KS, in an area where there is a ROZ county they have the opportunity to have some of their student loan debt forgiven.  They also have 100% of their state income tax that can be waived for 5 years.  The county has the opportunity to contribute toward this but in the past we’ve always done zero dollars because we haven’t budgeted for it, but we still have to approve the resolution so that we can be considered a ROZ county so that cities and employers can participate in this because we are a ROZ county.  We are not tying ourselves to any funding but have to have the resolution in place.  Jim asked if we could contribute and Susan said that is something that needs to be looked at in the future as we doing our planning.  It could definitely be an economic development incentive.  Clifton made a motion to approve resolution 07-22.  As an FYI he stated that the county is allocating zero dollars per year for the purpose of matching.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

Susan mentioned that next meeting we will be bringing back the County Appraiser’s contract.  The state has a certain requirement that they want it in a resolution form.  We just found that out late last week so we will be bringing it back once Justin has a chance to go over it.

 

SEK Regional County Meeting will be March 17th in Garnett.  We need a head count for registration.  Please let me know this week if you plan to attend.

 

Susan stated that she had met with Ashley Shelton and Patty Love.  We have had some really good meetings to talk about structure and reporting.  The commissioners, county treasurer and county clerk all are required to do quarterly reporting which we have been a little lax on in the past.  We’ve put together a schedule of when this reporting is to be completed.  To save on publication costs we would like to do one report that gives cash, revenue and expenditures and that meets on the obligations we have to statutorily.  Patty and I also talked about doing monthly financial reports due on the 15th of each month.  We are very close to having end of year finished.  By next meeting we are hoping to bring all of that to you.  I’m meeting with Terri Sercer today to go over some entries that have to be made.  I feel things are going very well.  I want to give a shout out to Rhonda Dunn.  She has been a huge help with this process.

 

Susan handed out articles to the commissioners that are helpful as legislature starts to go through.  One is talk about food sales tax being zeroed out.  If the bill passes that will be just the state tax of 6 1/2%.  You will still have to pay local tax on food items.  The other article is regarding bipartisan infrastructure law.  A lot of federal funds coming to KS.  They encourage long-term capital planning which I think we have already started.  We have a work session set up.  We want to make sure we put together a really good plan.  It helps us when we are looking at some of the funding that’s coming down.

 

House Bill 2619 would require all compensation of elected officers to be posted on the county’s website.  I’ll watch this bill as it goes through legislative session and let you know when/if that passes.

 

Susan stated that there is grant opportunities.  The first is due by February 28th.  It’s called a Base Grant.  We can do three different applications for this grant.  It is driven by industrial parks, new business.  I sat down with Rob Harrington yesterday and I feel like the best project that we have that could potentially apply for this grant is the Spyder expansion and the parking lot that we want to build over there.  There is $100,000,000 dollars available.  It requires a 25% match.  You have six months to begin the project and two years to complete.  It has to be driven toward economic development and business.  The city will also be applying for this grant as well.  There will be another webinar tomorrow that I will be listening to on this subject.

 

Susan stated she met with city staff to talk about the north side parking project.  We are going to work together on that and renew some lines that we think are causing some water issues.  One of the things discussed was this could create another issue going forward because when we put the troths in for surface water it’s going to go to Judson and cause more issues because there are no storm drains to take it.  They are working on their side to see what they can do to address that.  I feel it needs to be engineered for ADA compliance and AG Engineering is about 4 to 8 weeks out before they can get to this project.  Do we wait for Ag Engineering or do we look for another firm to help with this?  Jim stated that he would like to keep it local.  Susan said she would get with Frank and see when they can work on this and then coordinate with the city as well.

 

Susan gave copies of Ashley Shelton’s training schedule just to keep them in the loop.

 

Susan met with Ashley and Patty regarding issues of grants and other funding coming into the county it sometimes isn’t identified very well.  As we develop new policies and handbook, I would like us to develop some kind of administrative policy book that talks about how we handle certain things.  When a payment comes to the county there is a form we would like the department head to complete that states we know this money is coming and this is where we want the money to go.  So there are no issues or delay in getting that information posted in the general ledger.  That is one of the things that Patty and I worked on and we’ll be talking about that in our next department head meeting.  As we develop those procedures we will bring them to you.  We’ll talk to department heads about them first.

 

Public Comment: Clint Walker stated it was nice to see Susan on the ball on the rural opportunities.

 

Elected Official Comment: No comment

 

Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property for minutes including 3 commissioners, Rob Harrington, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks returning at 9:43am.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 9:43am with no action.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property for 7 minutes including 3 commissioners, Rob Harrington, Susan Bancroft and Justin Meeks returning at 9:50am.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 9:50am with no action.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 785-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Justin Meeks and Susan Bancroft for 15 minutes returning at 10:12am.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 10:12am with no action.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

At 10:13am, Clifton made a motion to adjourn.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

 

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Jim Harris, Chairman

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner

(ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner

ATTEST:

 

Doretta Neville, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk

February 22, 2022, Approved Date

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of Jan. 31

January 31, 2022                                 Monday 8:35 am

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present.

 

Anne Dare and Jason Silvers were present for some or all of the meeting.

 

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

 

Eric presented two utility construction permits from Cox Communication.  One on 240th north of Limestone for fiber optic.  The other is on Kansas west of 230th.  Lynne made a motion to approve the two permits.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Ashley Shelton presented a Real Property Relief Application for 1762 255th St, Fort Scott.  Lynne made a motion to approve the Real Property Relief Application for 1762 255th St., Fort Scott, KS.  Jim Harris seconded.  All approved.

 

Susan presented Approval of Township & Cemetery Board Annual Report.  This is a report of all their budget numbers. We are missing about 12.  Those turned in are on budget.  These reports are sent to the state.  Lynne Oharah made a motion to approve the cemetery & township board reports that have reported for year-end budget of 2021.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Susan discussed sick leave.  We had our first department head meeting and it went well.  The resolution (06-22) being presented is how they feel the sick leave should be handled.

 

“Whereas all new hires accrue one day per month of sick leave.  One day will represent the number of hours a normal workday is for the specific position or department and whereas of February 1, 2022, new hires will be given 12 days of sick leave on the first day of hire.  If the employee leaves employment before their one-year anniversary date and sick leave used exceeds the annual accrual rate of one (1) day per month, the sick leave used must be reimbursed back to the county, Ex: Employee works sick (6) months but uses eight (8) days of sick leave and terminates employment.  Two (2) days of non-accrued sick leave will be deducted from the employee’s final paycheck, and whereas, the number of months of service divided by two (2) will be allocated on day one of the transfer for any employee who transfers from a salaried position to an hourly position.  Ex: An employee who has worked for Bourbon County in a salaried position for sixty (60) months (5 years) will be granted thirty (30) days of sick leave on the first day of the transfer to an hourly position.”

 

Basically we will frontload the sick leave for any new hire and if they terminate before first year of employment then they will have to pay days back.  And for the salaried position we basically stated that this is what they would have accrued and then divided it in half.  The department heads felt this was fair.  As a resolution it will be added to the handbook until the handbook has been updated.  Clifton made a motion to pass resolution 06-22 amending sick leave accrual.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

Justin Meeks requested an executive session for attorney client privilege for 7 minutes.  Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship for 7 minutes returning at 8:53am including 3 commissioners and Justin Meeks.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.  Lynne made a motion to resume normal session at 8:53am.  No action.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Justin Meeks asked a motion to allow Chairman Harris to sign any and all legal documents for the possible transfer of the hospital building to Noble Health.  Clifton made a motion to allow Chairman Harris to sign any and all legal documents from the county to Noble Health.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.

 

Justin Meeks asked for an executive session for proprietary information for 7 minutes including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft and myself.  Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships including 3 commissioners, Justin Meeks and Susan Bancroft for 7 minutes returning at 9:02am.  Lynne seconded.  All approved.  Lynne made a motion to resume normal session at 9:02am.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Justin stated that he received an e-mail from a patron concerning some sales tax revenue stuff from back in the day.  Obviously, I don’t have the ability to give that legal advice.  It doesn’t deal with the county specifically so I will be forwarding that on.  If I do need to address that myself I will request permission from the commission prior to that.

 

Jim Harris announced the commission has been invited to the 76th Annual Bourbon County Conservation District Annual Meeting to be held on February 5th, 5:30pm at Rosie’s Cabin in Uniontown, KS.

 

Clifton made a motion to allow the three commissioners to attend the Noble Health function.  No business will be conducted. Lynne seconded. All approved.

 

Anne Dare asked about the Township & Cemetery Board Annual Report. She has heard from 2 different treasurers stating that the information they had received was confusing as to what they needed to report for year end. She asked if this has been taken care of. Ashley Shelton stated that the distribution came in high at the end of the year; it shows that they had more money. They need to show whatever was over that they didn’t spend as a cash balance at the beginning of 2022. They are going to receive less money in 2022 but added with that beginning cash balance for what they received over should balance out. Anyone that has reached out to me has been given this information on how to handle it. I would encourage anyone with questions to give me a call. Susan Bancroft made a suggestion that we call in all the treasurers and give them a rundown on how to do this process.

 

At 9:08am, 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

(ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner

ATTEST:

Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Clerk

February 8, 2022, Approved Date

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for March 15

Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: March 15, 2022
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District-Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
• Resolution for Liquor Sales in the County
• Bob Reed – Resolution regarding Housing of Parole Violators
• County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
o BB County Representative for Lake Advisory Board
• Public Comment
• Elected Officials Comment
• Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session: KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy KSA 75-4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship KSA 75-4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property 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

Agenda Request – Lake Advisory Board

Agenda Request – Housing of Parole Violators

Resolution – Maintenance of Prisoners

Fort Scott City Agenda for March 15

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

CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
MARCH 15, 2022
6:00 P.M.

  1. Roll Call:

P. Allen J. Jones T. Van Hoecke M. Wells K. Allen

II. Flag Salute:

  1. Invocation: Led by:

  1. Consent Agenda:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of March 1st, 2022.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1308-A totaling $1,266,495.29.

  1. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering, Inc.:

Building Inspection $ 284.00

City Engineer $4,120.00

Fort Scott Dam Improvements-Design $7,500.00

Total $11,904.00

  1. Resolution 6-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 208 N. Little Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 7-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 222 S. Lowman Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 8-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 601 W. 2nd Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 9-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 1409 S. Ransom Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 10-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 220 S. Judson Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 11-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 316 S. Heylman Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 12-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 731 S. Heylman Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 13-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 604 W. 5th Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 14-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 722 S. Heylman Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 15-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 312 S. Heylman Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 16-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 1021 W. 4th Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 17-2022 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 623 Short Street – Public Hearing Date – 5/3/2022 @ 6:15 p.m.

  1. February financials

  1. Public Comment:

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

  1. Appearances:

Jesse Hazen – Request to use Riverfront Park – Car & Bike Show for Good Ol’ Days

Kayla Hall – Good Ol’ Days donation

  1. Old Business:

  1. Demolition Agreement Changes (newest changes highlighted in blue)

  2. Business License Discussion (Matthew Wells)

  3. Consideration of Special Street Maintenance Program for the City of Fort Scott for 2022 (Matthew Wells)

  4. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3603 – Changing Parks Advisory Board from five to seven members

  1. Public Hearing: None

  1. New Business:

  1. Consideration of Temporary Notes – Fort Scott River Intake Project (Bret Shogren – Stifel)

  2. Consideration of Letters of Interest – Parks Advisory Board

  3. Consideration of Letters of Interest – Lake Advisory Board

  4. Consideration of Bids – Wastewater Treatment Plant Ground Lease

  5. Consideration of Bid – 17th & Eddy Drainage Project

  6. Consideration of Bids – Commercial Grade Zero Turn Mower – Lake Fort Scott

  7. Consideration of Adoption of Ordinance No. 3591 – Uniform Public Offense Code – Effective 4/1/2022

  8. Consideration of Adoption of Ordinance No. 3592 – Establishment of a Fingerprint Fee for the Fort Scott Municipal Court

  9. Consideration of Adoption of Ordinance No. 3593 – Establishment of a Warrant Fee for the Fort Scott Municipal Court

  10. Discussion of Fire Department coverage territory expansion

  11. Consideration of Invoice – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – $1,560.00 – February 2022 Port-a-Potties

  12. Discussion of National Avenue Project (Jason Dickman)

  • Report on Surveying Lake Lots

  • Report on Surveying Old City Landfill property

XII. Reports and Comments:

  1. City Manager Comments:

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

C. City Attorney Reports and Comments:

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

IX. Adjournment:

The Fort Scott Commission Minutes of March 1

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of March 1st, 2022 Regular Meeting #5

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held March 1st, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners P. Allen, J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor K. Allen presiding.

INVOCATION: Mark McCoy, City of Fort Scott Project Manager, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Jason Pickert, Bill Downey, Brad Matkin, Rachel Thompson, Mark McCoy, Jason Dickman, Doug Guns, Debbie Hurd, J. R. Parker, Ryan Collier, Jean Tucker, Jody Hoener, Rachel Carpenter, Trenton Johnson, Debbie Baxley, Shelly Rowe, Chris Rowe, Anthony Rowe, Don Lancaster, Tom Lancaster, Sandra Gibbs, Dave Bruner, Steve Anthony, Diana Mitchell, Scott Theis, Max Fanning, Bill Downey, Angela Simon, Annie Simon, Kendrick Simon, Steve Harry, Barbara Albright, Bailey Lyons, Jimmy Kemmerer, and Bob Reed.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Marsha Lancaster Day Proclamation – Kevin Allen, Mayor, read a Proclamation which proclaimed March 1st, 2022, as Marsha Lancaster Day in the City of Fort Scott. Today is Marsha’s birthday and she was a huge supporter of all Fort Scott events and supported many sporting teams with meals. She was a Fort Scott Legend and is greatly missed.

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA: Mayor Kevin Allen asked that the Item L – Request to Pay – Construction and Abatement Services, Inc be added under Consent Agenda.

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of February 15th, 2022, special meetings of February 16th, 2022, February 18th, 2022, and February 22nd, 2022.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1307-A totaling $232,065.68.

  1. Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering Associates – $8,092.91 – Lake Lot Surveys

  1. Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering Associates – $800.00 – Resurvey Lake Lots 8 & 9

  1. Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. – January legal fees – $1,627.50

  1. Request to Pay – Olsson Associates – Airport Runway Rehabilitation – $26,800.00

  1. Request to Pay – Rogers & Sons Concrete, LLC – Union Lofts Alley – $83,674.00 (Final Payment)

  1. Cereal Malt Beverage Application – 212 E. 1st Street – M’axe Throw House

  1. Request to Pay #2 – Utility Maintenance Contractors – Water Treatment Plant Clarifier Project – $4,725.25

  1. Request to Pay #3 – L G Barcus & Sons, Inc. – Fort Scott Dam Improvements – $429,429.92

  1. Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc. – Fort Scott Phase II Dam Improvements Engineering – $23,964.82

  1. Request to Pay – Construction and Abatement Services, Inc – $1,300.00 – Asbestos samples of 8 & 16 N. National

M. Wells asked about Items C and D regarding the payment of the survey of the Lake lots and how many lots were surveyed.

City Manager said that he will check into it.

M. Wells moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the removal of Items C and D and the addition of Item L. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA WITH THE REMOVAL OF ITEMS C AND D AND THE ADDITION OF ITEM L – CONSTRUCTION AND ABATEMENT SERVICES, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,300.00.

Public Comment:

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

Debbie Hurd – Ms. Hurd stated that she has property on West 2nd Street and that she received a letter from the City stating that her property was half in the City and half in the County and received a violation letter. She has always been told that her property is in the County. She received a letter from the City stating the structure needed to be repaired or removed in a certain period of time. She asked for more time.

Bill Downey, Codes Manager, said according to the GIS map that it reflects there is a boundary line down the middle of the property,

City Attorney said that he was involved with this also and it according to the map, it shows there is a boundary line in the middle of the property.

Bill said that Ms. Hurd is helping her sister with this property, but she is going through tough times right now. He said that he is willing to give her more time. He asked if a compliance check for June 1st, 2022, would work for her and she was agreeable to that.

Ryan Collier – Mr. Collier appeared before the Commission on the fence at 12th & Main Street that he constructed. He said that he and the City Manager had a conversation last week. He feels that a City Commissioner is targeting and harassing him about the fence that he constructed. He was told by the Codes Department it was okay to proceed by four (4) different City individuals. Now his customer has received letters that it is illegal to have the fence there.

M. Wells asked if there were 17 letters sent out to property owners that were in violation?


City Attorney said that he mailed out three letters to homeowners.

Discussion was held that there were over 100 houses in violation of fences.

J. Jones moved to grandfather all the fences prior to the change in the fencing regulations and to send out letters to the over 100 structures in violation notifying them they were on City right-of-way in case of any issues. T. Van Hoecke seconded. J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen and M. Wells voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED TO GRANDFATHER ALL THE FENCES PRIOR TO THE CHANGE IN THE FENCING REGULATIONS AND TO SEND OUT LETTERS TO THE OVER 100 STRUCTURES IN VIOLATION NOTIFYING THEM THEY WERE ON CITY RIGHT-OF-WAY IN CASE OF ANY ISSUES.

Trenton Johnson – Mr. Johnson stated that he was a real estate agent from
Mound City, Kansas. He has an offer on a piece of property at Lake Fort Scott that has an encroachment on it. The encroachment property belongs to the City of Fort Scott according to the GIS map. He asked if the City would be willing to sell this property or if there were any options. He said that the water meter, electric meter, and sewer holding tank were all located on the City encroachment. He believes the acreage is 3.84 acres.

City Attorney said that the City did not place the water meter, nor the electric meter, nor the holding tank there.

Discussion was held on the amount of property at the Lake that has encroachments on it.

City Attorney said that any property would have to go out for competitive bid and there is nothing the City can do about it currently.

Angela Simon – Ms. Simon spoke on licensing of businesses in our community and how it is needed. She spoke on how many businesses are being run illegally and the City needs to recoup the tax revenue from them. She stated she pays $7,600.00 a year for resale insurance for her store as well as other State fees. She said that there is illegal childcare happening in Bourbon County and we are allowing it to happen. She also mentioned salons that are not licensed and other types of businesses.

Commissioners discussed how the City could enforce this. More discussion was held later in the meeting under the license section.

Sandra Gibbs – Ms. Gibbs informed the Commission that she owns the property at 623 Short Street. She received a letter to repair the structure by 3/15/2022 or it would go out for demolition. She said that she will start work in April to repair the structure.

City Manager said that the City will work with property owner and the Codes Manager on this structure.

Old Business:

  1. Consideration of Bids – Manhole 148 Project – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, Inc. informed the Commission that the engineer went back to Nowak Construction, the low bidder, and asked about the City doing the pavement portion of this project and what their bid would be. Nowak’s bid was $240,268.00.

Discussion was held regarding who would be doing the inspections on this project.

P. Allen would like Earle’s to do the inspections.

Jason said he would get a proposal drawn up for inspections on this project.

M. Wells moved to approve the amended bid in the amount of $240,268.00 for Nowak Construction Company, Inc. of Goddard, Kansas with the City doing the pavement portion of this project. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approve the amended bid in the amount of $240,268.00 for Nowak Construction Company, Inc. of Goddard, Kansas with the City doing the PAVEMENT portion of the manhole #148 project.

  1. Consideration of proposed Ordinance to create business license and increase City fees – Bill Downey, Codes Manager, informed the Commission that he has a proposed ordinance for their consideration and discussion to create a business license in the City of Fort Scott.

Much discussion was held on this and what fine would be imposed.

M. Wells said that he thinks that $10.00/month amounting to $120.00 a year is a good amount to charge. Other Commissioners discussed not having a charge at this time and only imposing a fee if they did not comply.

Mark McCoy, Project Manager, said that they can provide more information from other cities and look at how they enforce it.

Commissioners decided to hold a work session on this topic in the near future.

  1. Consideration of Bourbon County Fair Board Allocation Request – Bob Reed, Bourbon County Fair Board member, informed the Commission he was appearing to see if the Commission had made a decision if the City would commit any funds towards the Bourbon County Fair Board.

M. Wells moved to allocate $5,000.00 from the economic development fund for the Bourbon County Fair Board. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOCATE $5,000.00 FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FUND FOR THE BOURBON COUNTY FAIR BOARD.

  1. Consideration of Demolition Agreement Change – City Manager informed the Commission that before them was the proposed changes for the demolition contract. The changes are highlighted in yellow.

Discussion was held regarding safety issues of these structures and time frames.

City Manager will change the wording on this and email it out to them.

K. Allen moved to table this demolition agreement change at this time. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO TABLE THE DEMOLITION AGREMENT CHANGE AT THIS TIME.

  1. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3603 adopting Main Trafficways – City Manager said that before them is the list of the main trafficway streets that were proposed by the Street Advisory Board at the February 15th, 2022, meeting. This has been put in ordinance form.

P. Allen said that he has a problem with this ordinance. He believes that the streets should be designated as arterial, collector, and residential areas. He is not in favor of this ordinance. He said that K.D.O.T. already has our designations.

City Clerk informed them that this was putting all the designated main trafficways into one ordinance instead of several.

Jason Dickman said that he can work with K.D.O.T. on their designations and bring this back before them.

M. Wells moved to table at this time. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

TABLED THIS ITEM AT THIS TIME.

Appearances:

Jody Hoener & Rachel Carpenter – Bourbon County Health Action Team – Rachel Carpenter shared a power-point presentation with the Commission on Health in all Policies which gave an overview of how to understand how various factors impact health; about HIAP concept and principles; understanding the connection between non-health policies and how to consider health when making decisions; and identifying the next steps for advancing HIAP in decision making.

Commissioners thanked them for their presentation to the community at the East Side Fire Station last Saturday morning. There were about 25 in attendance, and it was a great meeting.

New Business:

  1. Consideration to apply for K.D.O.T. Cost Share Grant – Horton Street – Jason Dickman, Earles Engineering, Inc. informed the Commission that the application for the K.D.O.T. Cost Share Grant can be submitted again to K.D.O.T. There is a 25% matching grant from the City. Bourbon County R.E.D.I. is accepting letters of support on behalf of the City.

M. Wells moved to apply for the K.D.O.T. Cost Share Grant for Horton Street with a 25% match provided by the City. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO APPLY FOR THE K.D.O.T. COST SHARE GRANT FOR HORTON STREET WITH A 25% MATCH PROVIDED BY THE CITY.

  1. Consideration of increase in fees at Woodland Hills Golf Course and Aquatic Center – Doug Guns, Sports Facilities and Lake Director, informed the Commission that the Golf Course Advisory Board met on February 14th, 2022, and recommended the following increases in golf fees:

Current Prices: Proposed Increase:

Weekday – 18 holes $14.00 $16.00

9 holes $12.00 $14.00

Friday-Saturday-Sunday

18 holes $16.00 $18.00

9 holes $14.00 $16.00

Cart Rental

18 holes $14.00 $16.00

9 holes $ 9.00 $10.00

Trail Fee 18 holes $10.00 $12.00

9 holes $ 5.00 $ 7.00

Annual Pass Single $465.00 $525.00

Youth $105.00 $120.00

Family – First Four (4) $625.00 $700.00

Additional family

member $25.00 $ 25.00

Cart Shed $365.00 $365.00

Trail Fee $157.00 $157.00

Season Cart $445.00 $500.00

Tournament fees $ 24.00 $ 30.00

Discussion was held regarding the cart shed and trail fees and separating them out.

Doug said that this is a 12.5% increase. He said that the golf course lost $63,000 last year.

J. Jones moved to approve the increase in golf course fees and to keep the trail and cart shed fees the same as last year. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED INCREASE IN WOODLAND HILLS GOLF COURSE FEES BUT TO KEEP THE TRAIL FEES AND CART SHED FEES THE SAME AS LAST YEAR.

Dave Bruner, Fire Chief, appeared before the Commission to increase the Aquatic Center fees for 2022. The request is to increase the family pool pass of four (4) individuals from $150.00 to $200.00 and to increase the babysitter/additional family member from $25.00 to $30.00. Daily rates and pool passes have been the same since the aquatic center opened in 2012.

Discussion was held regarding needy families and assistance they would need to get pool passes.

City Manager said that last year the pool lost $40,000 in revenue. Chemicals are expected to rise in costs this year.

Chief Bruner will visit with Jody Hoener and see if she can also assist with the needy families.

J. Jones moved to approve the recommended increases for the Aquatic Center. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

approved to increase the family pool pass of four (4) individuals from $150.00 to $200.00 and to increase the babysitter/additional family member from $25.00 to $30.00 at the aquatic center for 2022.

  1. Sale of Lake Lots 8 and 9 – Consideration of Bids – Scott Theis, Stutesman Action Realty, informed the Commission that his real estate firm handled the sale of Lot 8 at Lake Fort Scott. There were two offers received by the designated time frame of March 1st, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. The first offer was for $140,000.00 with earnest money in the amount of $1,400.00 placed. Their desired closing date was March 11th, 2022. It was a cash sale and had no contingencies. This offer waived all surveys of the property.

The second offer was for $120,000.00 but had an Escalatory Addendum up to $1,500.00 than the net sales price at a purchase price not to exceed $160,000.00 with $1,000.00 earnest money placed; therefore, this purchase price is for $141,500.00. Their desired closing date is March 31st, 2022. Their offer will expire on March 2nd, 2022, at 12:00 a.m. This is also a cash offer. This offer did not waive the survey of the property.

Stacy Wood, realtor, said that she just heard from her buyer and that they will not require a survey of the property and will waive that.

J. Jones moved to approve the offer of $141,500.00 with the addendum that waiving the survey of the property is approved. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE OFFER OF $141,500.00 WITH THE ADDENDUM THAT WAIVING THE SURVEY OF THE PROPERTY IS APPROVED. THIS IS FOR LOT 8 AT LAKE FORT SCOTT.

Bailey Lyons, Lyons Realty, stated that she was the real estate firm that handed the sale of Lot 9 at Lake Fort Scott. There were two offers received. Her first offer was for $125,000.00 with earnest money of $1,300.00. This is a cash offer. The property is accepted with encroachments. There is no escalatory clause. The desired closing date is March 11th, 2022, and the expiration date of the offer is March 5th, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. The seller will pay the title insurance also. This total offer amounts to $117,812.00.

The second offer was in the amount of $120,000.00 with earnest money put down in the amount of $10,000.00. This is a cash offer. The title insurance is split between the buyer and seller. There is an escalatory agreement in the amount of $1,000.00 up to $142,000.00. Their desired closing date is April 1st, 2022, and their bid will expire on March 1st, 2022, at 9:00 p.m. which was later moved to March 2nd, 2022 at midnight due to the length of the meeting. The total offer amounts to $119,137.00 for Lot #9.

J. Jones moved to approve the offer of $119,137.00. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE OFFER OF $119,137.00 FOR LOT 9 AT LAKE FORT SCOTT.

  1. Approval to accept Grant Agreement No. 22-PF-016 – $700,000 – Sanitary Sewer Grant – Approval for the Mayor to sign all pertinent documentation City Manager said that this paperwork accepts the sanitary sewer CDBG grant and authorizes to Mayor to sign all documentation needed.

M. Wells moved to approve to accept CDBG Grant Agreement No. 22-PF-016 in the amount of $700,000 for the Sanitary Sewer Grant and for the Mayor to sign all pertinent documentation. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

approved to accept Grant Agreement No. 22-PF-016 in the amount of $700,000 for the CDBG Sanitary Sewer Grant and for the Mayor to sign all pertinent documentation.

  1. Consideration of CASA Allocation – Diana Mitchell, CASA Volunteer, informed the Commission that she has been a CASA Volunteer for the last five years. CASA is in their 32nd year of providing a voice for children who are involved in the court systems through no fault of their own and have been victims of abuse or neglect. She stated that there are 59 children who have a CASA volunteer by their side. Most of these are children have parents with substance abuse issues. She asked the Commission to consider their donation of $5,000.00 towards CASA again this year and thanked them for their support in the past.

J. Jones moved to approve the allocation of $5,000.00 for CASA from the Special Alcohol and Drug fund for 2022. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE ALLOCATION OF $5,000 FOR CASA FROM THE SPECIAL ALCOHOL AND DRUG FUND FOR 2022.

  1. Consideration of purchase of two (2) police cars from Kansas Highway Patrol – City Manager stated that the Police Department would like to purchase two 2020 Dodge Durango’s this year to replace two marked patrol units. The estimated cost is $29,350.00 each from Kansas Highway Patrol for a total of $46,650.00. One of the vehicles is available quickly and the other could be purchased shortly thereafter. There are approximately 50,000 miles on them and have some equipment already installed on them. The City would like to be able to purchase these upon their availability.

J. Jones moved to approve the purchase of two police cars from Kansas Highway Patrol in the total amount of $46,650.00. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE PURCHASE OF TWO POLICE CARS FROM KANSAS HIGHWAY PATROL IN THE AMOUNT OF $46,650.00 – 2020 DODGE DURANGO’S.

  1. Discussion of adoption of proposed Special Street Maintenance Program – City Manager informed the Commission that in their packet is the Proposed policy for the Special Street maintenance Program created by Commissioner Pete Allen.

Pete stated that his policy states that the governing body recognizes the critical need to improve the rideability of our street and that the streets have been allowed to deteriorate, with little or no scheduled maintenance program. It was also noted that there is 83 miles of streets within our jurisdiction with less than 10 miles of those being State highways. The total street budget for 2022 is $2,000,000 which includes approximately $700,000 for capital improvements and $1,300,000.00 for routine and special maintenance projects. Pete gave his program which is set out year by year. He asked that this policy be adopted.

Discussion was held regarding brick streets, and the placing of an asphalt mixture over the brick streets. Discussion was held regarding working on alleys also. It was discussed regarding various types of grading equipment also that could be purchased or used.

Discussion was held regarding the City Manager and City Staff and their Crack Sealing Plan for 2022 versus the list compiled by Commissioner Pete Allen.

City Manager said that he had the Streets crew develop a rating system for all of our streets. The levels are from one (1) to seven (7). These would have a chip and seal applied to them. The City would do the worse streets first. It is a street rotation program, and he plans on doing it every five (5) years. His plan reflects 229,286 square yards. Crude oil just jumped to $100.00 a barrel. They are looking at a $2.00 per yard cost which would make it around $500,000.00. This would also cover Cooper Street with a double layer. The Street Department would have two crews operating.

M. Wells said that there is equipment available to repair brick streets.

K. Allen said that we have seven (7) different types of brick throughout the City of Fort Scott.

Discussion was held regarding the cost of brick machines.

T. Van Hoecke encouraged the citizens to come to the next Street Advisory Board meeting or the City Commission meetings to let their voices be heard about the brick streets.

P. Allen said that he would like us to utilize the County’s equipment to chip seal as we don’t have the equipment.

City Manager suggested combining his list and Pete’s list together.

Discussion was held regarding how many square yards would be needed if the lists are compiled.

City Manager said that companies will not come out and measure streets and that we need to have the desired amounts for them to bid from.

Jason Dickman said that the streets need to be in a format to be bid off and it needs to be done quickly as contractors get very busy. You need to determine what streets and the footage.

It was determined that the City Engineer, City Staff, Pete Allen, City Commissioner, Jerry Morgan, and the City Manager will meet and go over both lists and merge them together to create a chip and seal listing and then send out for requests for proposals.

M. Wells moved to go out for Request for Proposals once the list is compiled between the City Engineer, Pete, Allen, City Commissioner, City Manager and Jerry Morgan, Street Supervisor with proposals accepted in two weeks. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO GO OUT FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ONCE THE LIST IS COMPILED BETWEEN THE CITY ENGINEER, PETE ALLEN, CITY COMMISSIONER, CITY MANAGER, AND JERRY MORGAN, STREET SUPERVISOR WITH PROPOSALS ACCEPTED IN TWO WEEKS.

Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

  1. City Manager Comments:

City Manager stated that he has started looking at financing for the River Intake Project as there are cost overruns and another $500,000 may need to be spent. He is looking at temporary notes.

City Manager asked about the Public Works crew looking for an additional dump truck with a dump bed. He asked the Commission to send out RFP’s for this.

Commissioners also told the City Manager to look for used dump trucks as well as receiving the RFP’s for a new truck.

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

M. Wells – Asked about the Spring Clean Program and if it will be done this year.

City Manager will check into this.

Asked about the encroachments at Lake Fort Scott and how we will address it.

Josh asked if we would send letters out to every resident?

Matthew thanked Bailey and Scott for their hard work in the sale of the lake lots.

P. Allen – Nothing to report.

J. Jones – Asked about a City/County luncheon and if we could get a date set for it and possibly incorporate the school district.

Asked for the golf course contracts with the schools and college to be reviewed and updated.

Sale of additional lake property – He said that the Lake Advisory Board wanted to wait three to five years to sell additional property. He read a comment made by a board member: “The City has shown it is not capable of making good decisions for the Lake. They make what they feel is good decisions for the City”. He said he agrees with that as we are elected by the citizens of the City. We have not spent a lot of money out there, but our first priority is the City of Fort Scott.

T. Van Hoecke Attended the Lake Advisory Board and they had concerns about the sale of additional lake property and wanted to wait three to five years. He said that he wants to do what is in the best interest of the citizens who elected him.

Ride-A-Long – Tim said that he participated in the Ride-A-Long program with the Police Department and urged other Commissioners to do so as well.

Thanked the Street Department for working on the streets in the last snowstorm.

Comprehensive Plan – Asked the other Commissioners to review their Comprehensive Plan as there is a lot of information in it.

K. Allen – Remarked that it was nice to get the lake lots sold.

Adjournment:

M. Wells moved to adjourn the meeting at 11:04 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 11:04 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, MMC

City Clerk

Agenda Of The Fort Scott Community College Trustees for March 21

March 21, 2022
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701

The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
March 21, 2022. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott
Community College.

4:00 p.m. Board work/planning session
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly board meeting in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall
THE AGENDA
4:00 BOARD WORK/PLANNING SESSION
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Board Training and Regular Board Meeting conducted
on February 21, 2022, 6
C. Approval of Treasurer’s Report, Bills, and Claims, 9
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Consideration of 2022-23 Tuition and Fees
B. Selection of Honorary Associate Degree Recipient
C. Consideration of Letter of Intent with CHCSEK
D. Consideration of Great Western Dining Contract
REPORTS, 63
A. Administrative Updates, 64
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 70
ADJOURNMENT, 71
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
• March 21, 2022: Board Meeting
• March 25, 2022: Aggie Day
• April 12, 2022: Foundation Scholarship Dinner
• April 15, 2022: Good Friday, Campus Closed
• April 18, 2022: Board Meeting
• May 6, 2022: Athletic Award Show
• May 7, 2022: Hall of Fame Golf Tournament and Banquet
• May 10 – 13, 2022: Finals
• May 14, 2022: Graduation
• May 16, 2022: Board Meeting
• May 30, 2022: Memorial Day, Campus Closed
• June 20, 2022: Board Meeting
• July 16, 2022: Foundation Gala
Sincerely,
John Bartelsmeyer, Chair
Alysia Johnston, President
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.
ROLL CALL
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Dave Elliott
_____ Kirk Hart
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Robert Nelson
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
1) Attached are the minutes of the Board Training and Regular Board Meeting
conducted on February 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) Additions
a) Trisha Hamm, Head Volleyball Coach, effective March 1, 2022
b) Dee Yount, Assistant Cheer/Dance Coach, effective March 1, 2022
c) Sarah Smith, Financial Aid Officer, effective March 2, 2022
d) Marcus Page, Director of Admissions, effective March 21, 2022

2) Separations
a) Debra Cummings, Business Instructor, effective June 1, 2022
b) Kathy Malone, Math Instructor, effective June 1, 2022
c) Darlene Wood, Assistant to the President/Research & Education Learning Specialist/Perkins Grant Coordinator/EWT Coordinator, effective June 1, 2022

To view the entire agenda packet:

3.21.22 Consent Agenda

Minutes of the Fort Scott Community College Trustees On Feb. 21

FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Minutes of the Board of Trustees Training
February 21, 2022
4:00 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
Dr. Doug Moeckel of Kansas Association of School Boards presented a training on the fundamentals of being a board
member and the role the board serves in the operation of the institution.
Chairman Clerk
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting
February 21, 2022
PRESENT: John Bartelsmeyer, Dave Elliott, Jim Fewins, Kirk Hart, Bryan Holt, and Robert Nelson
ALSO PRESENT: Alysia Johnston, President, Juley McDaniel, Board Clerk, faculty, staff, and community members
Chairman Bartelsmeyer called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall. The meeting was opened
with the Pledge of Allegiance.
COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR: Bartelsmeyer noted the Board had a very nice presentation prior to the meeting
from Kansas Association of School Boards about Board responsibilities. Everyone enjoyed it, and it was good discussion.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None
CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Nelson, and carried by unanimous vote to approve
the consent agenda.
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS:
A. A motion was by Hart, seconded by Elliott, and carried by unanimous vote to approve Heartland Coca-Cola as the
beverage sales and vending provider on campus for a five-year term.
B. A motion was made by Elliott, seconded by Nelson, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the 2022-23
academic calendars as provided.
REPORTS:
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES: The Board reviewed and heard reports from Gordon Parks, Student Services, Student
Affairs, Athletics, Instruction, Finance and Operations, and the President.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at 6:12
p.m. by Nelson, seconded by Elliott, and carried by unanimous vote.
Chairman Clerk

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Wild Birds in Kansas

MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild waterfowl in central Kansas. This is the state’s first confirmed case of HPAI since 2015.

“Confirmed HPAI in wild birds in central Kansas is an indication that Kansas birds are at risk of exposure from the wild migratory bird population,” said Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith. “We’ve encouraged Kansas poultry owners to be aware of this possibility, but now the reality is all poultry owners need to be vigilant in taking steps to protect their flocks from avian influenza. If you haven’t implemented biosecurity practices yet, the time to do it is now.”

Biosecurity refers to practices that prevent possible contamination. For poultry, biosecurity practices include:

  • Prevent contact with wild birds, especially wild waterfowl. Remove any potential nesting areas for wild birds.
  • Cover and enclose outdoor feeding areas, and cover stored feed.
  • Take all possible steps to separate wild birds from having any access to your flock or their living area.
  • Clean and disinfect any vehicle tires or equipment that has been on other farms or other locations where there is poultry or wild birds.
  • Wear clean clothing, boots and shoes when in contact with your flock.
  • Restrict unauthorized people and vehicles.
  • Isolate new birds.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a highly contagious viral disease that can infect chickens, turkeys, and other birds and can cause severe illness and/or sudden death. HPAI has been identified in backyard flocks as well as commercial operations in neighboring states; at this time, it has not been detected in domestic birds in Kansas.

Attentively monitor your birds for symptoms of HPAI which include: coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and other signs of respiratory distress; lack of energy and appetite; decreased water consumption; decreased egg production and/or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs; incoordination; and diarrhea. Avian influenza can also cause sudden death in birds even if they aren’t showing other symptoms.

If these symptoms are observed in your birds, immediately contact your veterinarian. If you don’t have a regular veterinarian, contact KDA’s Division of Animal Health office toll-free at 833-765-2006.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States. Avian influenza does not present a food safety risk. Poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly.

As part of existing avian influenza response plans, federal and state partners are working jointly on additional surveillance and testing in areas around the affected flock. The United States has the strongest avian influenza surveillance program in the world, and USDA is working with its partners to actively look for the disease in commercial poultry operations, live bird markets and in migratory wild bird populations.

For more information about HPAI, including current status of the confirmed cases in other states as well as more information about biosecurity for your flock, go to the KDA’s avian influenza webpage at agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza or call KDA at 833-765-2006.

FSCC Trustees Work Session March 21

The Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees will meet for a work/planning session at 4 p.m. on March 21.  This is the day of the regular monthly meeting, so the work/planning session will take place prior to the meeting. The session is open to the public, but no official business will be conducted during this time.

 

Submitted by Juley McDaniel

Director of Human Resources

Fort Scott Community College

Sen. Moran Applauds Passage of Postal Reform Legislation

Sen. Moran Applauds Passage of Postal Reform Legislation

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded the passage of H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 to help improve and sustain the United States Postal Service (USPS).

 

“Throughout my time representing Kansans in Washington, D.C., I have advocated for the preservation of rural post offices and sensible reforms that ensure the Postal Service’s stability,” said Sen. Moran. “When a post office closes, it creates problems for businesses and the community and can cause significant harm to the local economy. For rural Kansans and older residents, the Postal Service is the glue that keeps them connected to the rest of the country. The Postal Service is an indispensable piece of infrastructure that can reach nearly every address in America, and I am pleased we are one step closer to getting this critical reform across the finish line.”

 

Sen. Moran has been a long-time supporter of preserving and reforming the USPS. This legislation included several provisions from Sen. Moran’s legislation the Postal Service Reform Act of 2018.

 

Click HERE or Below for Sen. Moran’s Full Remarks

 

 

Sen. Moran’s Provisions Included in H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022:

  • allow USPS to enter into agreements with state, local and tribal governments to provide non-postal services to increase revenue;
  • increase transparency of USPS delivery results by requiring USPS to submit frequent performance reports to Congress;
  • create a new Postal Service Health Benefits program within the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program and integrate employees over age 64 to enroll in Medicare; and
  • eliminate the pre-funding requirement of retiree health benefits.

 

Sen. Moran’s Work on Postal Reform:

  • In 2001, then-Rep. Jerry Moran supported H.Con.Res.181 which expressed the sense of Congress that the USPS should provide a maximum degree of effective and regular services to all communities and take all necessary steps to ensure post offices are not closed or consolidated.
  • In 2009, then-Rep. Jerry Moran supported H.R.22, the United States Postal Service Financial Relief Act of 2009, which reduced the amount the USPS must pay into the Postal Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund from $5.4 billion to $1.4 billion.
  • In 2011, the USPS published a list of more than 130 rural post offices in Kansas that were under initial consideration for closure. In response, staff for Sen. Moran attended nearly every community meeting that USPS leadership held to solicit feedback on the future of their post office.
  • Sen. Moran met with Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe on several occasions, including a U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) hearing on postal reform, to emphasize his support for keeping rural community post offices open.
  • In November 2011, HSGAC adopted Sen. Moran’s amendment to protect rural post offices by strengthening the criteria for communities to fight back against closures during a markup of the Lieberman-Collins postal reform bill.
  • In 2012, the Senate passed S.1789 the 21st Century Postal Service Act of 2012 which included Sen. Moran’s amendment from the HSGAC markup in 2011.
  • S.1789 did not pass the House of Representatives.
  • USPS abandoned efforts to close post offices on the 2011 list, and instead adjusted customer “window” hours for these locations—which kept post offices open in rural communities, and still allowed USPS to right-size its workforce and reduce labor costs.
  • Sen. Moran held a follow-up conversation with U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs, the Postmaster General and staff to discuss ways to protect rural post offices.
  • In 2013, in response to the USPS announcement the agency would be eliminating Saturday mail delivery, Sen. Moran began requesting report language in the FSGG Subcommittee Appropriations bill requiring the USPS to maintain six-day and rural mail delivery without reduction in services. He has continued to support the six-day delivery provision in every subsequent fiscal year.
  • In 2015, Sen. Moran led Sens. Tom Carper (D-Del.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), and Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) to introduce the Improving Postal Operations Service and Transparency Act.
  • In 2018, Sen. Moran introduced the Postal Service Reform Act of 2018: Improving Postal Operations, Service, and Transparency with Sens. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), and Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.).
  • In 2019, along with Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Sen. Moran led 23 of his Senate colleagues to reintroduce a bipartisan resolution opposing privatization of the USPS, noting the agency is a self-sustaining establishment and privatization would result in higher prices and reduced services for USPS customers, especially in rural communities.
  • In 2020, Sen. Moran encouraged the new USPS Postmaster General to work with Congress to discuss postal reform legislation and released an editorial highlighting the new opportunity for the USPS and Congress to work together.
  • In 2020, Sen. Moran wrote an op-ed on the importance of the USPS to rural life, which ran in the Salina Journal.
  • In 2021, during an FSGG Appropriations Subcommittee hearing, Sen. Moran expressed concern to the USPS OIG to consolidate another 18 mail processing centers under the agency’s proposed 10-year plan. Sen. Moran also cosponsored S.1720, the Postal Service Reform Act of 2020.
  • On March 1, 2022, Sen. Moran spoke on the U.S. Senate floor regarding the importance of the USPS to Kansas and shared stories of the impact several Kansan letter carriers have had on their community.

 

# # #

 

 

New Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture to Meet March 23-24   

 

 

WASHINGTON, March 8, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will host the first public meeting of the inaugural Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production on March 23-24, 2022.  The public – including urban producers– is encouraged to attend.    

   

I look forward to working with this new urban agriculture federal advisory committee,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The committee’s valuable insights and expertise will provide critical guidance to help us better serve urban agricultural producers, strengthen local food systems, and increase equity and access to healthy, local food.”   

   

The new federal advisory committee is part of USDA’s efforts to support urban agriculture, creating a network for feedback. Members were announced last month, and include agricultural producers, and representatives from the areas of higher education or extension programs, non-profits, business and economic development, supply chains and financing.   

  

About the Meeting   

   

USDA’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production is coordinating the meeting, which runs from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ET on March 23 and 24, 2022. To attend, register by March 18, 2022.   

  

At the meeting, committee members will discuss administrative matters and consult on the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Urban, Indoor and Emerging Agriculture grants.   

   

Members of the public who wish to submit comments or questions related to urban agriculture may submit them via www.regulations.gov.  

   

Comments must be submitted by March 18, 2022.   

   

For special accommodations, please contact Leslie Glover at (602) 395-9536 or [email protected].    

 

Additional details are available in the March 8, 2022 Federal Register notice and online at farmers.gov/urban or on the committee’s webpage.   

  

USDA and Urban Agriculture   

   

The Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production is part of a broad USDA investment in urban agriculture. Other efforts include:   

 

  • Grants that target areas of food access, education, business and start-up costs for new farmers, and policy development related to zoning and other urban production needs.   
  • Cooperative agreements that develop and test strategies for planning and implementing municipal compost plans and food waste reduction plans.   
  • Investing $260,000 for risk management training and crop insurance education for historically underserved and urban producers through partnerships between USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) and the University of Maryland, University of Connecticut, and Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems.   
  • Providing technical and financial assistance through conservation programs offered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).   
  • Organizing 11 Farm Service Agency (FSA) urban and suburban county committees. FSA will organize additional committees.   

   

The Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production was established through the 2018 Farm Bill. It is led by NRCS and works in partnership with numerous USDA agencies that support urban agriculture. Its mission is to encourage and promote urban, indoor, and other emerging agricultural practices, including community composting and food waste reduction.   

   

More information is available at farmers.gov/urban and the new Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production website at www.usda.gov/partnerships/advisory-committee-urban-ag-innovative-production.   

   

Additional resources that may be of interest to urban agriculture entities include grants from USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture as well as FSA loans.   

   

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit usda.gov.   

  

#  

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.