Category Archives: Government

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Minutes of Dec. 14

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These minutes were approved on Dec. 21, 2021 and posted on the county’s website on Feb. 7, 2022.

December 14, 2021                              Tuesday at 9 am

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Lynne, Jim, Clifton, the County Counselor and the County Clerk.

 

Also present for the meeting were, (some were present for a portion of the meeting, some were present for the entire meeting) Clint Walker

 

Clifton made a motion to approve the minutes from December 7, 2021. Jim seconded. All approved.

 

Eric presented a permit for Oscar and Mary Gonzales at 727 240th.  Jim made a motion to approve a culvert at 727 240th Street.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Eric stated the last week of July he asked commissioners to lower speed limit to 35 mph on 130th from Arrowhead to 39 and then on Cavalry from 7 to 130th for the construction of the bridge.  We talked of revisiting the speed limit when bridge work was done.  It is now complete.  Clifton made a motion to remove the 35 mph signs and replace with the original speed limit.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

Landfill compost permit process is nearly finished.  We started on the pad for the compost this week.  Should have all paperwork in place by the end of the year.

 

Kansas Dept of Agriculture needs a little more information, detailed plans, for Elm Creek.  He will try to finalize that by the end of the year.  Once we have all permits we’ll get Wildlife & Parks to see about draining to get the level down.  We will be doing a lot of the work ourselves and try to meet the match of the grant.

 

Local roads safety program grant plan.  We sent in our match of the money so they should be getting started on it soon.

 

Thomas quarry will be tentative to do a blast next Tuesday.  Removed overburden to do this blast.  They are drilling today in preparation.

 

Had several holes show up on a bridge on Wagon Rd west of 205th.  We removed the bridge decking.  Hoping by the end of the week to have it opened back up.  Eagle Rd east of 130th we got filled in underneath the bridge.  Should have that bridge back up and running soon.

 

Windmills are still reclaiming intersections.  They have done a good job in keeping the roads in good shape.

 

Lynne reported a resident on Soldier Rd, east of 62nd, asked that a whistle be cleaned out so that the landowner can mow the ditch.

 

Jim requested to have the roadwork session as early as possible next year.  Two areas need ditched and if we have a dry spring that would allow you to get started early.  Also, Jim said he would like for Eric to discuss with them any equipment purchases he is planning.  Eric stated he is planning to look at getting a truck but with the price of used trucks being so high he is thinking we may want to look at new.  He said that the wait is about a year for a new one.  Jim suggested he check with Lester from Anderson County as he relayed to Jim that they were going in another direction and that might help Eric.  Jim suggested they think about buying a crusher.

 

Eric mentioned that the Purple Wave sale ends on January 11, 2021.

 

Lynne requested that Rob Harrington be appointed as representative for Bourbon County to the SE Kansas Regional Planning Committee.  Jim made a motion to appoint Rob Harrington as representative of Bourbon County to the SE Kansas Regional Planning Commission.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

Ashley Shelton stated that the employees that have been here two full years will have to have all of their vacation used by December 31st.  The problem we run into is they accrue a day of vacation on the second pay in December and they have to have it used by the end of the year.  If you have very many new employees in one department it’s difficult for everyone to get that day in.  Ashley recommended that there be an extension to give employees time to get that day of vacation in.  Clifton made a motion regarding the accrued day on the second pay in December could be carried over in 2022 but has to be used by April 1, 2022.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a suggestion, that now that Susan Bancroft is with us, to look at accrual rates and HR as a whole and make changes to the pay and vacation policies.  Susan stated that she would like to set up an employee counsel that pulls in all these different facets of Bourbon County and talk through what the issues have been in the past and how do we move forward.

 

Ashley also asked about the covid sick time that is still out there.  It was a one-time thing and the county commission voted to extend but there was no end date put on that.  If someone used it then it is no longer available to them.  Clifton made a motion that the covid time be ended on December 31st.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to allow Susan to form an employee committee to discuss benefits package, handbook and employee related information.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

Ashley stated that mowing/snow removal bids were to be opened at 9:30am.  A bid from G & G mowing in Schell City, MO was $575.00 per cut for a total of $15,525.00 for the year including picking up trash, edge all curbing, weed eat, blow off clippings.  They have $2,000,000.00 liability insurance. The bid is for mowing only.  They did not submit for snow removal.  The second bid was from Randy Phillips Lawn Care from Fort Scott, KS.  Lawn service per service $600.00.  Randy Phillips Lawn Care also gave a bid for snow removal of $700.00 per incident.  Jim made a motion to table the bids for two weeks.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

Justin requested executive session for 20 minutes.  Clifton made a motion for executive session 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personal matters of an individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including three commissioners, Justin Meeks, Susan Bancroft and Rob Harrington for 15 minutes returning at 9:47am.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session.  No action.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

Clifton made a motion for executive session 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personal matters of an individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks and Rob Harrington for 15 minutes returning at 10:02am.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  No action.

 

Clifton made a motion for executive session 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 15 minutes returning at 10:23am including 3 commissioners and Justin Meeks..  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  With Action.  Clifton made a motion to allow Justin Meeks to work with Noble Health on the lease contracts and possible assumption of the building and the contract relating to that assumption.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

Justin gave an update on the tax sale.  There are 79 parcels.  There are another 108 parcels for the next sale.  January 13, 2022 is the date of the scheduled tax sale at the Courthouse in the Main Lobby area.  Parcels that don’t sell will go to the landbank.

 

Susan stated that she needed to request a special meeting on December 28th.  We need to amend the budget.  The funds affected are Road and Bridge Fund, Road and Bridge Sales Tax Fund, Landfill and Sewer District #1.  The Jayhawk Wind Generation money was put into the Road and Bridge fund which made it appear that they had more money than they did.  They were making decisions based off of that.  Luckily, sales tax is up and we have the money to cover the expenses.  That is no fault of Public Works.  We will make adjustments at the end of the year.  We’ll move the Jayhawk Wind money out of there.

 

Susan stated that we will do a press release dependent on the decision that the commission makes.  The most recent tax statements that went out had a clerical error on them.  Municipalities set their levy and send that information to the clerk.  The clerk enters the information into what is called an abstract.  During that time that she is working on all that information Matt is doing stuff in his office with mortgages, etc.  Then there are errors that they work through and it could be a month’s time.  With the new Revenue Neutral Rate timeframe they basically lost 30 days of work time because it pushed everybody’s dates back.  Budgets used to be due August 25th and they are now due August 1st if you are exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate.  The clerk really can’t start until after October 1st.  We have to get information to the printers.  Patty always sets that up.  We had a place held for November 15th but with the election and everything going on we didn’t meet that deadline.  We got it to them by the 15th but we lost our place in line.  Tax statements were printed a little bit later than normal.  It’s a perfect storm in all of this.  By the time Ashley got information from the state it was December 6th.  We had to go ahead and print tax statements.  At that point we realized there was an error and so with the error anybody within the USD 234 Recreation Levy.  The levy was entered incorrectly.  They had levied 2.6 mils and the levy that was entered was 4.4 mils.  We’ve talked to people at the state, people at the software company and you as a commission have two options.  We can go ahead and levy at the higher rate and those tax dollars will sit until the next fiscal year.  So in 2023 when we do levies basically your levy will drop by the amount of tax that has already been collected.  The second option would be to collect the tax and then do a refund in January which would be very time consuming because it is probably the biggest taxing entity in Bourbon County.  The cost of getting out new statements, the cost of running checks to refund people would be an additional cost.  For someone that has a $50,000.00 home they would pay $10.00 more this year and then the next year they would see a reduction of $10.00.  For someone with a $150,000.00 home they would pay $31.00.  Of course, commercial properties will be hit a little bit harder because they are at a higher percentage.  Clifton stated that it is partly due to the unrealistic timeframe set by the state.  Susan stated that the software doesn’t have any type of warning of a jump in mils.  It leaves room for human error.  Ashley stated that she talked with the software company and in the future there is a way to print a report and can be reviewed by more than one set of eyes.  This information was not known to her prior to the error but has now put this in place to keep this from happening in the future.  Clifton wants to point out that 30 days loss was due to the State of Kansas.  Clifton feels that the Revenue Neutral Rate has been very confusing to everyone.  Susan stated that next year the budget would have to be ready by June 1st.  You have to do projections 6 months ahead of what could potentially happen.  Clifton made a motion to continue with the recreation levy as it is.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Susan stated that this will be a violation in our audit and it will be on the county as it was a county error.  Clifton wanted to reiterate that this process has been challenging and people need to reach out to their state representatives and let them know that this process is confusing.

 

Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property with the session including three commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Eric Bailey and Justin Meeks returning at 10:57am.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 10:57am.  No action.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

A gentleman stated that he lives in Northwest Bourbon County on 3 Highway and own some property from 65 and 3 junction.  The road is in terrible shape.  The commissioners referred him to Eric Bailey who took the gentleman to look at a map and figure out a plan to help.

 

Clint Walker stated that he was pleasantly surprised that this commission has not been inundated with requests for covid money.  Other counties in the area have.

 

Lynne made comment that there is a benefit this Friday evening for the Nelson Blythe family and encouraged all to attend.  Jim made a motion to let the public know that all three commissioners may attend the Blythe benefit this Friday at the Liberty Theatre from 6pm – 9pm but no business will be conducted.  Clifton seconded.  All approved.

 

A gentleman stepped up and stated that a ditch at 1384 Wagon Road needs to be dug out.  Lynne stated he would let Eric know.

 

Clifton made a motion to go into executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships with the session including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft and Justin Meeks, City commissioners and Noble Health representative at 12 noon at 200 S Main, Suite 2 for 30 minutes.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 12:30pm.  No action.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to go back into executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships for 29 minutes resuming normal session at 1:00pm.  Jim seconded.  All approved.  Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 1:00pm.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Jim seconded.  All approved.

 

Meeting adjourned at 1:01pm.

 

 

 

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Lynne Oharah, Chairman

(ss) Jim Harris, Commissioner

(ss) Clifton Beth Commissioner

ATTEST:

Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Clerk

December 21, 2021, Approved Date

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

News Release From USD234

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NEWS RELEASE

 

Monday, February 14, 2022

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met in the Fort Scott Middle School Commons on Monday, February 14, 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 – January 20, 2022 – $1,629,877.81

D.    Financial Report

E.     Activity fund accounts­­­­­­

F.     Fundraiser application

G.    Extended trip application

H.    Sale of old middle school uniforms, bottoms, and warm-ups

 

The board recognized teachers who received U-Benefit Grants from OFG Financial, Security Benefit, and KNEA.  Brenda Hill, Fort Scott KNEA President, presented the grant awards to Sydney Cullison, Jennifer Hartman, Jamie Rogers, Becky Tinker, and Trisha Whitehead.

Kellye Barrows, Vice-President, presented a report on the Summit on Professional Learning Community at Work in Phoenix, AZ.  Written reports were shared by principals.  In addition, the board heard reports from Dalaina Smith, Academics Director; Ted Hessong, Superintendent; and Gina Shelton, Business Manager/Board Clerk.

The board approved contracts for Provision of Educational Services – Low Incidence and Audiology and a Memorandum of Understanding with Communities in Schools.

The board approved Gary Billionis, board member, to sit in on legal mediation claims.

Superintendent Hessong gave an ESSER III update.

Board members shared comments and then went into executive session to discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations.  The board returned to open meeting and then went into executive session to discuss personnel matters for nonelected personnel and returned to open meeting.   The board approved the following employment items:

A.    Resignation of Shelly Sanborn, middle school special education teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year

B.    Resignation of Eileen Strakel, Eugene Ware cook, effective February 11, 2022

C.    Leave of absence request from Elizabeth Rose, preschool paraprofessional

D.    Employment of Cole Claypool as a middle school paraprofessional for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

E.     Employment of Dylan Goucher as a Eugene Ware/Fort Scott Preschool Center custodian for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

F.     Employment of Angie Kemmerer for middle school PDC chairperson

G.    Employment of Angie Bin as the high school fine arts team leader for the 2021-22 school year

H.    Employment of administrators for the 2022-23 school year

I.      Employment of district directors for the 2022-23 school year

J.      Employment of Gina Shelton, Business Manager/Board Clerk, for the 2022-23 school year with a change in title from Business Manager to School Finance Director/Board Clerk

K.    Stipend for Bryce Daly, Technology Coordinator/Technician, to video board meetings

L.     Employment of Katren Rienbolt and Josh Hudiburg as high school assistant track coaches for the 2021-22 school year

M.   Retirement of Debbie West, high school secretary, effective June 30, 2022

N.    Termination of Brooke Senkevech, Eugene Ware paraprofessional and middle school intramural coach, effective February 14, 2022

O.    Employment of Connie Harper as a Eugene Ware paraprofessional for the remainder of the 2021-22 school year

 

The board adjourned.

Government, Kansas

Improving Equity in Nutrition Program

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KDHE Awarded State Partnerships Improving Nutrition and Equity Program Grant

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is pleased to announce that the Community Health Promotion (CHP) team has received the State Partnerships Improving Nutrition & Equity (SPINE) Program Grant from the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD).

CHP was awarded $144,274 to support the one-year grant project. This grant project aims to implement sustainable and equitable policy, systems, and environmental actions to address food and nutrition security across the life span.

“Even though Kansas is known for its food production, access to nutritious food is still a challenge for many Kansans,” said Courtney Koenig, Physical Activity and Nutrition Program Manager at KDHE. “We are excited for this grant opportunity and look forward to getting started on the work to improve nutritious food access in Kansas.”

For this year-long program, the CHP team will partner with the Kansas Food Action Network and focus their efforts on community engagement, assessment and creating a food policy council in the Southwest Kansas region.

Health equity is foundational to the SPINE program and will be integrated throughout the planning, action, and evaluation stages, in addition to considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Health equity can be defined as “when everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from, has a fair and just opportunity to experience their highest level of health and wellness. This requires eliminating barriers like poverty and repairing injustices in all systems that can impact the ability to experience health and wellness. Such systems include education, criminal justice, health and transportation.” (Modified from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, “What is Health Equity?” and Colorado Department of Health and Environment)

Nine states were selected to receive the grant, including Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Oregon and Oklahoma.

For more information about the SPINE Grant, please visit the NACDD website at chronicdisease.org/spine-program/.

Government, Kansas

Kansas State Senator Caryn Tyson Legislative Update

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Caryn Tyson

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

February 11, 2022

 

 

Tax RELIEF – Removing Sales Tax on Shipping

Do you know you pay sales tax charges on postage and shipping in Kansas?  Hopefully, not for long.  The Senate passed Senate Bill (SB) 327 unanimously, exempting shipping and postage charges from sales tax if the charges are listed separately on a receipt or invoice.  It just makes sense, and I was glad to lead this effort.  Hopefully, the House will pass it as well.

 

The Senate Tax Committee passed SB 339, removing all sales tax on food.  While working the bill in Committee a couple of amendments were added, removing sales tax on commercial electric, gas, and other utilities (homeowners don’t pay this sales tax), and removing sales tax on theater tickets.  It looks like the bill will have a few more amendments when worked on the floor.  One of the amendments will be regarding funding to KDOT.  Currently, KDOT gets 16.55% of sales tax collected.  Since sales tax collection will decrease, KDOT would like the percentage to increase proportionally.

 

Economic Development – Giving away almost everything, including the kitchen sink

The Governor and the Kansas Secretary of Commerce brought a bill, SB 347, to the legislature for economic development with one company in mind.  I opposed the Governor’s efforts to pick winners and losers in business.  Instead we should pass tax cuts that help existing businesses and make Kansas a more appealing state for all businesses to come.

 

SB 347 could have Kansas writing a check to the company for an obscene amount of money – the current estimate is over $60 million a year for 10 years if the company makes a $4 billion investment.  I asked, “what would qualify as an investment?”  Can you believe the Secretary of Commerce gets to decide?  The bill has payroll, income tax, and sales tax incentives and is being touted as the $1 billion giveaway.  We have also heard the state and local governments will be giving away possible buildings, land, and abating property taxes.

 

There have been comments about the secrecy and not knowing the company.  As a legislator under these circumstances, I did not sign a non-disclosure.  Anyone who did, was told the company name.

 

SB 347 goes against what I have been fighting for – transparency and to stop the government from picking winners and losers.  It has been reported the company is a foreign company, possibly Panasonic to make batteries for electric vehicles. Disappointingly, the bill passed the legislature and was signed into law.  My hope is that it doesn’t turn out like the Wisconsin Foxconn “debacle”.

 

Veto Override Redistricting Map

The legislature voted to override the Governor veto of SB 355, the U.S. Congress redistricting map.  Lawsuits have already been filed, likely more to follow – as the minority party has planned all along.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

 

 

Government

U.S. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran’s Newsletter

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Resources

Vaccines in Kansas

Visit kansasvaccine.gov for information regarding COVID-19 vaccinations in Kansas, including availability and FAQs.

To find providers offering COVID-19 vaccinations, use KDHE’s Find My Vaccine map tool. Enter your zip code or address to find the providers nearest you.

Vaccines for Veterans

For information on how to get your COVID-19 vaccine at VA, click here.

 

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Hello,

Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.

 

The Blood Shortage is Severe, and It’s Affecting Kansans

There is no substitute – no alternative – our nation can turn to in the absence of blood donations. The only answer is each of us stepping up to donate, helping to end this crisis and contributing to saving the lives of those in our own communities.

Donation centers provide specific guidance on the blood donation process and safety measures taken within their centers. Locations for blood donation can be found at the following organization websites:

Save A Life Now, America’s Blood Centers and American Red Cross.

I’ve heard from medical professionals in Rooks County about the tough decisions rural Kansas providers are having to make – including cancelling surgeries and blood transfusions, and possibly not delivering babies because bleeding complications may require blood that these facilities don’t have. This shortage is severe, and it is affecting Kansas health care providers and their ability to care for patients. Kansans pull together in times of need, and I encourage anyone who is able to donate.

 

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Addressing America’s Rising Crime

This week, I spoke during a press conference on rising crime in America. We are a country based on the rule of law. Our families must feel safe and secure in our homes, in our schools, in our communities, and in our churches and synagogues.

Now is the time to prioritize investments in solutions that will have a lasting impact on our law enforcement personnel; solutions that allow them to meet the challenging situations they face when they put on their uniforms. As the lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce Justice and Science which funds law enforcement programs, I will continue to advocate for protecting our communities by advocating for our nation’s law enforcement. Watch my remarks by clicking here or below.

 

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Modernizing the Violence Against Women Act
This week, I also joined Senator Ernst in introducing the bipartisan Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization Act, which reauthorizes VAWA through 2027, preserves advancements made in previous reauthorizations and includes a number of additional improvements to the current law.

Domestic violence brings fear, hopelessness, pain and depression into the lives of every victim. We must not only work to end this type of crime but also care for those who have become victims. This legislation will help give a voice to victims of domestic violence, provide new resources to combat these crimes in rural communities and expand programs to support sexual harassment victims. Read more about this bill’s key provisions by clicking here.

Speaking with the Kansas Fraternal Order of Police
On Tuesday, I met virtually with Kansas Fraternal Order of Police leaders Matt Blassingame and Casey Slaughter to discuss their priorities as crime continues to rise across the country. With over 3,100 Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) members in Kansas, including police officers, deputies, troopers and investigators of all ranks. Our country can only function when we feel safe and secure, and our law enforcement personnel are vital to carrying out that task. Police officers face unknown challenges when they put on their uniforms every day, and I am committed to making sure they have the resources they need to carry out their duties.

 

Meeting with Kansas Community College Leaders

Johnson County Community College
I was pleased to share a conversation with Johnson County Community College (JCCC) President Dr. Andy Bowne and Trustees Greg Musil, Dawn Rattan and Joy Koesten, in my Washington, D.C. office this week. We discussed the college’s legislative priorities, including the JOBS Act, legislation of which I am an original cosponsor, that would establish Pell grant-eligibility for short-term job training programs, and our shared support for increased Pell grant funding in the FY2022 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations subcommittee bill. The JCCC delegation also expressed their appreciation for federal pandemic relief funding, much of which was distributed to students to provide financial assistance during uncertain times and avoid coursework disruption. I was impressed to hear of the college’s on-campus mental health offerings for students, and I thank the college for its attention to the needs of student veterans. Thanks to President Bowne and Trustees Musil, Koesten and Rattan for visiting my office and for our productive conversation.

 

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Kansas City Kansas Community College
I also met with Kansas City Kansas Community College (KCKCC) President Dr. Greg Mosier and Trustee Brad Isnard. President Mosier and Trustee Isnard provided me an update on the state-of-the-art Community Education, Health and Wellness Center they are building in the heart of downtown Kansas City. The center will help address the needs of the downtown community and Eastern Wyandotte County by providing services such as English as a Second Language (ESL), General Education Diploma (GED) and offering vocational training to students around the metro Kansas City area, among numerous other services. I enjoyed meeting with President Mosier and Trustee Isnard, and I look forward to working with them and the rest of KCKCC leadership to advance our shared priority of making certain all Kansans have the resources and tools to thrive.

 

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Colby Community College
I was also pleased to meet with Dr. Seth Carter, President of Colby Community College, and Trustee Arlen Leiker, in my office in Washington, D.C. where we discussed the importance of Pell grants and the challenges posed by the pandemic over the past two years. I was encouraged to hear that even with the challenges of COVID-19, Colby Community College saw positive enrollment growth, and I was impressed to learn that the college has the highest community college graduation rate in Kansas. I thank President Carter and Trustee Leiker for visiting with me and providing me with an informative update.

 

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Kansas Independent Colleges
Additionally, I met with leaders from McPherson College and Ottawa University this week to discuss Kansas Independent College legislative priorities, including our shared support for increased Pell grant funding in the FY2022 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations subcommittee bill. President Schneider of McPherson College and Chancellor Tsutsui of Ottawa University shared the positive impact federal pandemic relief funding had on their institutions and student bodies. I thank both President Schneider and Chancellor Tsutsui for sharing their insight on the higher education landscape in Kansas with me and for their commitment to providing quality higher education opportunities for students from Kansas and around the country.

 

Discussing the Future of Kansas State University

Hearing from University Deans
I met with Kansas State University deans and leaders this week to discuss the university’s vision for its future and the future of Kansas. The bulk of our discussion focused on how K-State can become an engine of economic prosperity for the entire state of Kansas. In December of last year, K-State announced its Economic Prosperity Plan, a 10-year plan which focuses on leveraging key strengths of the university into new jobs, investments and economic development in the state. I conversed with the deans on how the individual initiatives in their respective colleges and departments fit into the economic prosperity plan and ways that I can support their efforts. The university set a 10-year goal for the plan at 3,000 direct jobs and $3 billion in direct investment to Kansas. This plan includes close collaboration with the USDA’s National Bio Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF), including educating and training the future NBAF workforce. By educating future leaders in our communities, entrepreneurs and the skilled workforce necessary to attract and retain businesses, Kansas’ institutions of higher education are vital for a strong future for our state. I appreciate hearing from the deans at K-State and learning more about how the university intends to be a leader in driving economic growth for Kansas.

 

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Discussing My Name, Image and Likeness Legislation with Athletic Director Gene Taylor
On Tuesday, I spoke with K-State Athletic Director Gene Taylor. We further discussed my Amateur Athletes Protection and Compensation Act of 2021 and how it empowers athletes – of all sports – to establish greater control of their name, image, and likeness (NIL). My legislation would create a national standard of guidelines to make certain student athletes can benefit from the use of their NIL without hurting their eligibility to compete as a student athlete while at the same time protecting the existing model of college athletics that has afforded so many young athletes an opportunity to pursue an education. I was also able to visit with K-State football player Logan Long and hear from him about his experiences as a student athlete.

I have made it clear to Athletic Director Taylor and other athletic director across Kansas that I will support athletes throughout their academic careers, both from an educational and athletic perspective. I thank him for meeting with me, and I was pleased to receive an update from AD Taylor regarding K-State’s athletic successes.

 

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Advocating for Veterans

Underscoring Bipartisan Action to Deliver for Toxic-Exposed Veterans
As leaders of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Senator Tester and I have been dedicated to identifying a path forward for outstanding toxic exposure issues and remain committed to following through on the country’s promise to provide timely care and benefits to all generation of exposed veterans. This week, we published a joint op-ed in the Military Times emphasizing additional bipartisan efforts to be announced in the coming weeks, aimed at creating a fair and transparent process for VA to establish new presumptive conditions and delivering long-overdue benefits to millions of toxic-exposed veterans across the country.

Decade after decade, American men and women have deployed to countries across the globe in the defense of our freedom. Thousands of them were exposed to harmful toxins during that service that resulted in life-altering health conditions. And far too many of them face yet another battle here at home when seeking the care and the benefits they desperately need. Our veterans deserve better, and they are tired of waiting for solutions. That is why we, as the leaders of the Senate VA Committee, have introduced the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act—bipartisan legislation that will offer every post-9/11 veteran suffering from effects of toxic exposures access to timely and high-quality care through the VA.

Read our full op-ed in the Military Times by clicking here.

 

Participating in the Concerned Veterans For America Rountable
Making certain that veterans have access to quality and timely health care is a one of my top priorities as Ranking Member of the Senate VA Committee. This week, I joined Concerned Veterans of America to discuss this issue and why it is so important for the VA to implement the MISSION Act correctly. The MISSION Act allows veterans to receive primary and specialty care through the VA in the comfort of their community. This is a major benefit for veterans across Kansas, especially for rural veterans, because it allows them to see their preferred provider in a convenient location. Unfortunately, the VA has not been implementing the MISSION Act as aggressively as Congress intended. This has forced veterans to endure long wait times and drive long distances to receive their VA care.

CVA and I discussed how my legislation, the Guaranteeing Healthcare Access to Personnel Who Served (GHAPS) Act, will address gaps in veteran health care to make certain the VA is serving rural and underserved veterans. I will continue to advocate for community care in an effort to provide veterans with the health care they have earned as a result of their service.

 

Meeting with Servicemembers Impacted by Water Contamination

This week, I met with an Active Duty Army Officer and a Navy military spouse, both mothers and advocates for their children and other families who have experienced health consequences due to exposure to contaminated water at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii. During our meeting, I heard their experience as result of this fuel spill and the Department of Defense’s (DOD) failure to take immediate action. I am committed to pushing DOD to find a solution for these families and to best secure the health and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans after they leave service.

 

Questioning FCC Commissioner Nominee Gigi Sohn

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates communications in the U.S. and works to solve critical communications-related issues, including broadband deployment to unserved areas. On Wednesday, as a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, I questioned Gigi Sohn, President Biden’s nominee to be a Commissioner on the FCC, about rate regulation, overbuilding existing broadband networks and net neutrality. In 2017, the FCC, led by Chairman Ajit Pai, a Parsons native, reversed the Obama-era net neutrality order, reverting to a light-touch regulatory approach that has historically allowed online innovation to thrive. Ms. Sohn has stated her support for the FCC taking action to reimpose net neutrality rules despite a Congressional working group being formed to examine legislative solutions to the question of net neutrality. I do not believe the FCC should preempt a legislative solution from Congress on this critical issue. I will continue to carefully evaluate Ms. Sohn’s policy beliefs and experience in advance of a vote on her nomination to the FCC.

 

Recognizing the Coffeyville Red Ravens’ Championship Victory

Last April, the Coffeyville Red Ravens brought home their first national championship trophy in nearly six decades. As an underdog in the national tournament with a number 10 ranking, this accomplishment is a result of hard work, determination and grit. Last week, the resolution I introduced with Congressman LaTurner passed the Senate.

This week, I was pleased to recognize and congratulate the men’s basketball team’s NJCAA Division I championship on the Senate Floor. Watch my remarks by clicking here or below.

 

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Discussing Challenges with National Rural Health Association

On Wednesday, I spoke with Kansas Hospital Association and representatives of the National Rural Health Association. There are no shortage of challenges facing rural health care in Kansas, including issues stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic and those that existed prior to it. The nation is facing a severe health care workforce shortage, which puts a heavy responsibility on the shoulders of our doctors and nurses currently serving. As Congress continues to allocate resources towards our rural health care workforce, we must also ensure there are residency slots available in rural regions for new health care professionals that do not come at expense to the health care facility. We also spoke about the need to protect the Medicare sequestration moratorium throughout the public health emergency as well as the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which currently has several cases working its way through the courts. Thank you for Audrey Dunkel and Landon Fulmer for organizing the meeting and the willingness of everyone on the call to serve in rural Kansas.

 

Meeting with Greg Jordan of KSBDC

On Thursday, I was pleased to be able to speak with Plainville-native Greg Jordan while he was in Washington, D.C. Greg is the Director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center (KSBDC), which assists Kansans who would like to start their own business by providing small business classes and connections to federal and state resources. The KSBDC, which is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration in partnership with the Kansas Department of Commerce and Fort Hays State University, assisted hundreds of small businesses start last year and has created or retained over thousands of jobs in the last decade. It was great to speak with Greg during his time in D.C., and I am thankful for the work that he and the KSBDC do for our state.

 

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Supporting STEM Education

On Tuesday, I met with the Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers to consider ways to lower health care costs through employer-sponsored insurance (ESI) programs. ESI is the most common type of health coverage in the country – with over 181 million Americans depending on it. Americans deserve access to more affordable health care, and strengthening ESI can reduce costs for employers and lower premiums for employees. We also discussed potential frameworks for pandemic risk insurance to protect businesses from unforeseen events. I appreciate the work the CIAB does to expand health care coverage for employees and support businesses.

 

Meeting with Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers

On Tuesday, I met with the Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers to consider ways to lower health care costs through employer-sponsored insurance (ESI) programs. ESI is the most common type of health coverage in the country – with over 181 million Americans depending on it. Americans deserve access to more affordable health care, and strengthening ESI can reduce costs for employers and lower premiums for employees. We also discussed potential frameworks for pandemic risk insurance to protect businesses from unforeseen events. I appreciate the work the CIAB does to expand health care coverage for employees and support businesses.

 

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Kansas Realtors Virtual Address

I addressed the Kansas Realtors Association virtually on Thursday at their annual conference in Topeka where they met with state legislature members. As prices for home-building supplies and labor continue to climb, low- and moderate-income Americans are being priced out of homeownership. Owning a home is the foremost way to create generational wealth, and we need to pursue responsible reforms that allow the private market to grow the supply of affordable housing. While housing is primarily a local issue, the federal government does have tools to encourage affordable housing. Legislation I’ve cosponsored would expand more development of affordable housing, promote the rehabilitation of homes in low-income neighborhoods, and provide incentives for development in rural areas.

 

Speaking with Federal Leaders

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell
On Monday, I spoke with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. We discussed the Fed’s efforts to rein in the soaring inflation that’s hurting Kansans. Chairman Powell and the Federal Reserve Board must work towards a solution that lowers consumer prices while still promoting economic growth. I also emphasized the importance of maintaining the Fed’s credibility by upholding its political independence and adhering to its statutory authority instead of wading into partisan social issues.

Federal Aviation Administrator Steve Dickson
This week, I spoke with the Federal Aviation Administrator Steve Dickson. The FAA has been experiencing significant delays in issuing regulations, guidance and policy in a timely manner which has been negatively impacting Kansas’ aviation businesses. We were able to discuss the impact this is having on the industry back home, and I encouraged the agency to address the backlog in an expeditious manner. During our conversation, I was also able to invite him to be my guest in Kansas to see our aviation capabilities, and I look forward to hosting him in our state soon.

 

Chief of Space Operations General John Raymond
I also spoke with General John “Jay” Raymond, the Chief of Space Operations of the U.S. Space Force. Our call focused on the importance of providing the Department of Defense with a full budget so our newest military branch can grow and succeed and how improved missile tracking and missile warning systems rank among the top priorities for U.S. defensive capabilities. I will continue to work with General Raymond to provide our servicemembers with the resources and technology they need to defend our assets and interests in space.

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

 

Government, Kansas

Kansas Compliance of Federal Funding Affects Six State Facilities, State Employees

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Governor’s Office Directs Agencies to Apply State Law When Complying with Supreme Court Decision to Uphold Federal CMS COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

~~Compliance Ensures Continuation of Federal Funding, Affects Six State Facilities, 11.2% State Employees~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today directed affected state agencies to apply Kansas law when complying with the United States Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rule requiring staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The directive requires agencies complying with the CMS rule to follow Kansas state laws regarding medical and religious exemptions, documentation, and self-attestation regarding vaccination status.

“I’ve consistently opposed federal COVID-19 vaccine requirements because the responsibility was given to the states from the beginning to make these decisions,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “However, in order to protect the millions of dollars in funding Kansas receives and to prevent Kansans’ tax dollars from going to other states, we must comply with the federal vaccine requirement.

“It’s absolutely critical that any policy implemented in response to the federal ruling must follow our state laws which protect medical and religious exemptions, and prevent intrusive requests from employers,” Governor Kelly said.

In January 2022, the United States Supreme Court upheld the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) COVID-19 vaccine requirement. For nearly all Kansas state employees, there will be no vaccine requirement. 11.2% of state employees work in the state’s six CMS-funded facilities that are subject to the United States Supreme Court ruling.

The Governor’s directive requires that any agency policy implementing the CMS rule should not conflict with provisions of Kansas state law, including but not limited to the 2021 Special Session House Bill 2001 and 2021 Regular Session Senate Bill 159.

The directive requires the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, the Kansas Commission on Veteran Affairs Office, and any other state agency impacted by the CMS Interim Final rule to affirm state laws when complying with the federal CMS guidance, including but not limited to:

  • Medical exemptions: Facilities must grant an exemption to the federal COVID-19 vaccine requirement if the employee submits a written waiver request stating that complying with the condition would endanger the life or health of the employee or an individual who resides with the employee, as evidenced by an accompanying written statement signed by a physician.
  • Religious exemptions: Facilities must grant an exemption to the federal COVID-19 vaccine requirement if the employee submits a written waiver request stating that complying with the requirement would violate the religious beliefs of the employee. Facilities can’t inquire into the sincerity of the request.
  • Documentation: Facilities must not require employees to provide documentation of their COVID-19 vaccination status. Facilities may request such documentation but must make it clear that providing documentation is not a condition of employment and that no adverse action will be taken if the employee does not provide it.
  • Self-Attestation: Facilities can implement a verbal self-attestation of COVID-19 vaccination status policy from any employee who does not provide documentation and does not request an exemption from the vaccination requirement. The facility, not the individual, will be responsible for documenting the individual’s self-attested vaccination status.

Please find the full directive here.

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda For the Bourbon County Commission Feb. 15

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: February 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
• County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
• Public Comment
• Elected Officials Comment
• Commission Comment

Government

Ukraine Evacuation Assistance Offered

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Sen. Moran: If you know an American who needs evacuation assistance from Ukraine, please contact my office immediately

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) is offering help to Kansans seeking evacuation assistance from Ukraine.

 

“Due to increased threats of Russian military action in Ukraine, the administration is encouraging Americans to leave the country immediately,” said Sen. Moran. “My staff and I have been in contact with the State Department and stand ready to assist Americans that need help leaving Ukraine. If you still know someone who is needing evacuation assistance from Ukraine, please contact my office immediately.”

 

To request assistance, contact Sen. Moran’s office at [email protected].

 

To better communicate with Americans in Ukraine, the U.S. Department of State has launched a Crisis Intake form here for U.S. citizens. Americans abroad are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important information from the State Department and U.S. Embassy.

Fort Scott, Government

FS Commission Agenda for Feb. 15

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

CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
FEBRUARY 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: Matthew Wells, City Commissioner

  1. Consent Agenda:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of February 1st, 2022 and special meeting of February 7th, 2022.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1306-A totaling $736,158.68.

  1. Certificate of Appropriateness – Signage – 104 N. National – Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, Inc.

  1. Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc.

Hammon’s/Sharky’s Inspections $1,462.13

City Engineer $4,120.00

Fort Scott Dam Improvements $2,500.00

17th & Eddy Drainage Project $1,440.00

  1. January Financials

  1. Public Comment:

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

  1. Old Business: Approval of Amendment of Fireworks Ordinance No. 3602

  1. Appearances:

Jerry Witt – Riverfront

Jessica Allison – American Legion

Jody Hoener & Rachel Carpenter – Bourbon County Health Action Team

Bob Reed & Stewart Gulager – Bourbon County Fair & Rodeo

Ryan Collier – 12th & Main fence

  1. Public Hearing: None

  1. New Business:

  1. Consideration of Bids – Manhole 148 Project (Jason Dickman)

  2. Lake Fort Scott Discussion (Doug Guns):

  1. Discussion of sale of six (6) additional Lake Fort Scott properties

  2. Consideration of Lake Fort Scott RFP for Boat Docks

  3. Consideration of mower for Lake Fort Scott

  4. Consideration of Part-Time Labor for Fort Scott Lake

  5. Consideration of RFQ for Engineering firm for Lake Fort Scott Valve

  6. Discussion of upgrades at Lake Fort Scott

  1. Discussion of City permitting fees (Bill Downey/Mark McCoy)

  2. Discussion of City business licenses and other City licenses

  3. Consideration of Pay Request – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation, Inc. – $2,340.00 – January 2022 Port-a-Potty Invoice

XII. Reports and Comments:

  1. City Manager Comments:

Schneider Energy Savings Report

New Microphone System for Commission Room quotation

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

Matthew Wells – Street Advisory Committee Report

Tim Van Hoecke – Discussion of Unsafe Structure List

C. City Attorney Reports and Comments:

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

IX. Adjournment:

Fort Scott, Government

FS Special Meeting Minutes of Feb. 7

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of February 7th, 2022 Special Meeting #3

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held February 7th, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Pete Allen, Josh Jones, Tim Van Hoecke and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Kevin Allen presiding.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Brad Matkin, Rachel Thompson, Travis Shelton, and Bailey Lyons.

CONSIDERATION:

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

J. Jones moved to recess into Executive Session for the attorney-client privilege exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) until 5:12 p.m. This will include City Commissioners, City Manager, and City Attorney. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

J. Jones moved to come out of Executive Session at 5:12 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNMENT:

K. Allen moved to adjourn the special meeting at 5:12 p.m. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED SPECIAL MEETING AT 5:12 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Minutes of Feb. 1

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes are unapproved until the next meeting.

Minutes of February 1st, 2022 Regular Meeting #3

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held February 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 (via Zoom), T. Van Hoecke and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor K. Allen presiding.

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

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Bill Downey, Jackson Tough, Brad Matkin, Rachel Thompson, Mark McCoy, Jason Dickman, Rob Harrington, Travis Shelton, Nedra Barr, Doug Guns, Bill Lemke, Rachel Carpenter, Frank Halsey, Jimmy Kemmerer, Greg Schick, David Saker, Michael Mix, and Carl Brown (via Zoom).

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA: City Clerk asked that Items G through Items J be added to the Consent Agenda.

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of January 18th, 2022 and special meeting of January 27th, 2022.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1305-A totaling $241,893.82.

  1. Approval of Certificate of Substantial Completion – Union Lofts Alley

  1. Request to Pay #2 – Davis Structure & Development Corporation – $77,775.50 – Clarifier #1 Replacement

  1. Request to Pay – SAM, LLC – $5,889.00 – Manhole Inspections for GIS Mapping System

  1. Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer – December legal fees – $1,727.00

  1. Request to Pay – Triangle Builders – $14,200.15 – Mayco Ace CDBG Project

  1. Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering – $1,600.00 – Mayco Ace CDBG Engineering Project (Final Payment)

  1. Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering – $100.00 – Mayco Ace CDBG Engineering Project (Final Inspection Invoice)

  1. Request to Pay – L. G. Barcus & Sons, Inc. – $135,270.98 – Fort Scott Dam Improvements

T. Van Hoecke moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the addition of Items G through Item J. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA WITH THE ADDITION OF ITEMS G THROUGH ITEM J.

Public Comment:

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

Greg Schick – Mr. Schick thanked the Commission for their time this evening. He referenced an article written by Gregg Motley that was in the Fort Scott Tribune recently that was titled Trust. He encouraged the Commissioners to read the article as it addresses gaining trust and losing trust. He stated that this is very important for City leadership. He stated that last week some trust was lost on a demolition job at 323 S. Hill Street between what they were told at the time of the demolition and then what was told to them later when payment was submitted. He asked them to take responsibility for their decisions that are made and stand behind their word.

David Saker – Mr. Saker said that he was with Dave’s Towing and Wrecking and Demolition and wanted to discuss the demolition on 323 S. Hill Street. He discussed the wall at that location and if it was taken out, the street would be washed out. He spoke to the Codes Manager and to the City Manager who told him to leave the wall. He brought in 20 loads of dirt to fill the area. He asked for clarification about what to do as he was told to remove the wall.

Bill Downey, Codes Manager, informed the Commission that what Mr. Saker said is correct. He was told the leave the wall. He and the City Manager were told by him that the County Landfill was not accepting large pieces of concrete.

Discussion was held about the project and the fact the contractor was told two different things. Discussion was also held that Eric Bailey was called and they found out the Landfill would take the concrete pieces.

Mr. Saker asked about payment on the project.

Discussion was held regarding if a change order needs to be submitted on the project.

Mr. Saker said that with all the rain he cannot get his equipment down into the hole for some time. He said that he will clean up the large pieces of concrete and can possibly drag them up the hill and will haul them off.

John Crain – Mr. Crain called and cancelled his appearance to speak.

Mark McCoy – Mark said that he wanted to speak on a sad note regarding the passing of Anne Emerson. Anne’s contributions to this community were unmeasured. There was a proclamation in 2014 proclaiming Anne Emerson Day. A few of her accomplishments are as follows: Fort Scott Pride, Friends of the Fort, founder of Symbols of Sacrifice at the Fort Scott National Historic Site, Partnership in Preservation where thousands of dollars were raised for the Fort, bringing the Moving Wall from the Vietnam War to Fort Scott, and many various organizations. She was a co-founder of the Good Ol’ Days event which is in its 40th year. She served for and assisted on local campaigns for U. S. Senator Bob Dole, Nancy Kassebaum, Sam Brownback, and Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, Bob Marshall, and many others. In 2012, she was awarded the Woman of Distinction. Anne Emerson Day was proclaimed on April 22nd, 2014, by Cynthia Bartelsmeyer, Mayor, of the City of Fort Scott at the time.

Mark asked that a Proclamation be declared on February 5th, 2022, as Anne Emerson Day which is the day of her funeral. He hopes this will help comfort her family at this time.

Tim Van Hoecke stated that he liked her motto: Faith, Family and Fort Scott.

Old Business:

  1. Wage Study – Approval of Ordinance No. 3601 – Salary Ordinance – Brad Matkin, Human Resource Director, informed the Commission that they were given this ordinance at the previous meeting and asked if they had any questions.

M. Wells moved to approve Ordinance No. 3601, the Salary Ordinance. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3601 PROVIDING FOR THE SALARIES OF THE APPOINTIVE OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3561.

Appearances:

Alison Leach – Not present.

Nedra Barr – Spyder Company – Ms. Barr appeared before the Commission and informed them about her software company that is in Fort Scott and is now a year old. They are located at 1st and Judson Streets. She has two partners in her company. Their company is a spyware software company and she explained what they offered. She invited the City Commission to come and see their software business.

Frank Halsey – Kansas NICA Race – Mr. Halsey appeared before the Commission to inform them that he was contacted by the National Interscholastic Cycling Association. They wished to hold a cycling event on Sunday, April 24th, 2022, at Gunn Park Trails. The organizers would arrive on Saturday, April 23rd, 2022, and do their set-up. He called the City Clerk who went ahead and reserved the shelters for April 24th for this event. He would like to see this become an annual event. This could bring in hundreds if not more of people for the event. He asked for approval to shut the park to the public for this racing event and to reserve all shelters and camping area.

M. Wells moved to approve to reserve all shelters and reserve the entire park for Sunday, April 24th, 2022, for the NICA event. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO RESERVE ALL SHELTERS AND THE ENTIRE PARK FOR SUNDAY, APRIL 24TH, 2022, FOR THE NATIONAL INTERSCHOLASTIC CYCLING ASSOCIATION EVENT TO BE HELD AT GUNN PARK TRAILS.

Rob Harrington – Neighborhood Revitalization Program – Mr. Harrington informed the Commission that USD 234, Bourbon County, and Fort Scott Community College as well as the City of Fort Scott have all signed the Interlocal Agreement for the Neighborhood Revitalization Program for 2022 through 2026. He will send this agreement to the Kansas Attorney General’s office for their approval which could take up to 90 days. Matt Quick, Bourbon County Appraiser, is accepting applications currently.

Noble Health announcement – Mr. Harrington thanked the Commission for appearing at the announcement regarding the hospital. He estimated that there were 80 people in attendance. This will be great for the City.

New Business:

City Manager asked that these items be addressed in reverse order from the original agenda.

  1. Consideration of water rate analysis – Michael Mix introduced Carl Brown of Getting Great Rates to the Commission. He was unable to appear in person due to the incoming snowstorm.

Carl Brown informed the Commissioners of his qualifications and references throughout the State of Kansas. He said that he can provide figures with data that is given to him of what the cost of water, sewer, and stormwater to be produced is. The total cost of the report for all three items is $22,466.00.

Discussion was held between the Commission that all these rates were raised recently. They also discussed the report that was given to them by Earles Engineering which they had just received that evening.

The general consensus of the Commission is to use the data that Earles Engineering prepared for them at this time.

  1. Consideration to send out for bids – three waterline projects – City Manager informed the Commission that there are three upcoming waterline projects. He would like to put them in an order to be bid out. The first project is the Industrial Park project to the south of K.D.O.T. He would like the City to do this project and believes they can do it. The other two projects he would like to see bid out which is the 6th Street waterline from Main Street to Ransom Street, and the third waterline project is the State Street project from 3rd Street to Wall Street.

T. Van Hoecke moved to approve for the City to do the Industrial Park south project and to bid out the other two waterline projects. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED FOR THE CITY TO DO THE INDUSTRIAL PARK SOUTH OF K.D.O.T. WATER LINE PROJECT AND TO GO OUT FOR BID FOR THE 6TH STREET WATERLINE FROM MAIN STREET TO RANSOM STREET PROJECT, AND THE STATE STREET WATERLINE PROJECT FROM 3RD AND STATE TO WALL STREET.

  1. Consideration to purchase an asphalt emulsion storage tank – City Manager said that he and the Public Works Manager have looked for a 7,000 gallon emulsion tank for the City’s upcoming street projects. They have located a tank from Hampton Equipment, Inc. of Raymond, Illinois in the amount of $60,146.26. He said that it could take up to 90 to 120 days to receive this tank.

Discussion was held among the Commissioners regarding the County and using their equipment.

J. Jones moved to table this discussion until more information can come from the County about their emulsion storage tank. (His motion died for lack of a second).

Discussion was held regarding the City moving quickly on this purchase so the projects can be done this year on the City streets.

M. Wells moved to approve the purchase of the 7,000 gallon asphalt emulsion storage tank from Hampton Equipment, Inc. of Raymond, Illinois in the amount of $60,146.26. P. Allen seconded. P. Allen, T. Van Hoecke, M. Wells, and K. Allen voted aye. J. Jones voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

approved the purchase of the 7,000 GALLON asphalt emulsion storage tank from Hampton Equipment, Inc. of Raymond, Illinois in the amount of $60,146.26.

  1. Consideration of survey of land by Bourbon County Landfill – City Manager discussed the survey of the City land by the Bourbon County Landfill.

Commissioners asked Jason Dickman of Earles Engineering if they were able to do the survey.

Jason said that he will get the City a quote on this and see what their schedule is.

K. Allen left the room at 8:24 p.m.

  1. Consideration of demolition bids – 619 S. Ransom – City Manager said that there were two bids received. The low bid without dump fees was from Dave’s Demolition in the amount of $800.00. The second bid received was from Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation in the amount of $1,484.00.

T. Van Hoecke moved to approve the low bid from Dave’s Demolition in the amount of $800.00 for the demolition of 619 S. Ransom Street without dump fees. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED LOW BID FROM DAVE’S DEMOLITION IN THE AMOUNT OF $800.00 FOR THE DEMOLITION OF 619 S. RANSOM STREET WITHOUT DUMP FEES.

K. Allen returned to the room at 8:25 p.m.

  1. Discussion of docks at Lake Fort Scott – Doug Guns, Facilities Director, informed the Commission that he reached out to Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to see what grants are available. The submission of the grants cannot occur until Summer. He did receive a quote from one company but does not want to reveal that amount in case we send out bids. He also discussed setting priorities for the Lake and their projects. He said that decisions need to be made where the additional docks would be located and then approved through K.D.W.P. If a grant is received, it will pay 50% and the City will pay 50% but that is for a fishing dock only.

Discussion was held regarding the type and material of docks desired. Discussion was held also regarding electricity to the camping area.

Doug mentioned having different phases of the upgrades at the Lake.

Direction was given by the City Commission to Doug Guns to draft an R.F.P. for two boat docks with specifications and to also look at any available grants.

  1. Consideration of 2022 contract with Bourbon County R.E.D.I. – Robert Harrington, Director of Bourbon County R.E.D.I., informed the Commission that the 2022 contract is before them for approval. The City will contribute $65,000 towards this organization in 2022.

M. Wells voted to approve the 2022 Intra-Jurisdictional Agreement for Bourbon County R.E.D.I. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE 2022 INTRA-JURISDICTIONAL AGREEMENT FOR BOURBON COUNTY R.E.D.I.

  1. Review Letters of Interest for Land Bank Board – City Manager said that Letters of Interest were taken for the Land Bank Board. Letters of interest were received from the following: Cliff Yarick, Clifford Keppen, Rhonda Dunn, Susan Bancroft, Diann Tucker, Rachel Carpenter, Bailey Lyons, Robert Coon, Stacy Wood, Patrick Wood, and Craig Campbell. Motions were accepted for the four open positions.

T. Van Hoecke made a motion to appoint Rhonda Dunn to the Land Bank Board. (There was no second so the motion died for lack of a second).

P. Allen moved to appoint Craig Campbell to the Land Bank Board. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPOINTED CRAIG CAMPBELL TO THE LAND BANK BOARD.

J. Jones made a motion to appoint Stacy Wood to the Land Bank Board. (There was no second so the motion died for lack of a second).

M. Wells moved to appoint Patrick Wood to the Land Bank Board. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPOINTED PATRICK WOOD TO THE LAND BANK BOARD.

K. Allen moved to appoint Robert Coon to the Land Bank Board. J. Jones seconded. P. Allen, J. Jones, M. Wells, and K. Allen voted aye. T. Van Hoecke voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPOINTED ROBERT COON TO THE LAND BANK BOARD.

M. Wells moved to appoint Bailey Lyons to the Land Bank Board. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.

APPOINTED BAILEY LYONS TO THE LAND BANK BOARD.

  1. Discussion of R.F.Q. – City Engineer – City Manager said that he was asked to put this item on the agenda for discussion.

Discussion was held regarding keeping Earles Engineering as their City engineering firm versus hiring an in-house engineer.

City Manager asked them how they would fund an in-house City engineer.

P. Allen said that he thinks the City is working good with Earle’s and we have a good future with them.

P. Allen moved to not go out for R.F.Q.’s for City Engineer and to keep Earles Engineering as their City Engineer. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO NOT GO OUT FOR R.F.Q.’S FOR CITY ENGINEER AND TO KEEP EARLES ENGINEERING AS THEIR CITY ENGINEERING FIRM.

  1. Discussion of R.F.Q. – City Attorney – City Manager said that he was asked to put this item on the agenda to see if there is any other interest in the community.

K. Allen made a motion to retain Bob Farmer as the City Attorney. T. Van Hoecke seconded. J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, M. Wells, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED TO RETAIN BOB FARMER AS CITY ATTORNEY.

  1. Consideration of Resolution authorizing the Redemption and Payment of its Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds, Series 2015-A (Bourbon County Assisted Living Project), and authorizing the City to Consent to the Assignment of certain documents in connection with its Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds, Series 2015-B – City Manager said that in 2015 the City issued Taxable Industrial Bonds, Series 2015-A and Series 2015-B (Bourbon County Assisted Living, LLC – “Tenant”) and (Community National Bank – “Bank”). The Bank purchased the Series 2015-A bonds, and the tenant purchased the Series 2015-B bonds. The tenant desires to sell the project to a new entity (Fort Scott Senior Living, LLC) which will have some of the same investors as the original tenant entity. As part of that process, the tenant will pay off and retire the Series 2015-A bonds owned by the bank. The Series 2015-B bonds will remain outstanding and be transferred to Fort Scott Senior Living, LLC. The Bank has consented to and is supportive of the proposed actions. These actions require the City’s consent and approval as well as the issuer of the bonds. Approval will not affect the property tax exemption granted or the liability, debt limit or credit rating of the City. Approval of the Resolution and any associated documents is recommended.

J. Jones moved to approve Resolution No. 5-2022 and any associated documents for this transaction. T. Van Hoecke seconded. J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, M. Wells, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 5-2022 OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AUTHORIZING THE REDEMPTION AND PAYMENT OF ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2015-A (BOURBON COUNTY ASSISTED LIVING PROJECT); AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO CONSENT TO THE ASSIGNMENT OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2015-B (BOURBON COUNTY ASSISTED LIVING PROJECT).

Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

  1. City Manager Comments: Kelley had several items to discuss with the Commission:

K & G Striping – Kelley said that he will have staff go back to them as he believes there is double charges for the project. He thinks the correct amount is about $4,250.00.

CDBG Sanitary Sewer Award – Kelley said that the City was awarded a $700,000 sanitary sewer CDBG grant. The City part will be $400,000.

KDOT grants – Kelley said that City staff is working on grants with K.D.O.T.

Airport – Kelley said that there is plenty of asphalt weight for the jets landing at the Airport. It is the length of the runway that is the problem. He visited with the engineer for the Airport this week on this.

  1. Director Comments:

Discussion of City fees – Bill Downey, Codes Manager, handed out the current fee schedule for building, plumbing, and electrical permits. He has looked at surrounding cities also. He brought this information for them to research and will discuss it again in two weeks.

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

J. Jones – Josh thanked Traci Reed for her service to the City and wished her the best on her new endeavors.

  • Josh questioned why the engineering firm contract was paid out of reserves.

Kelley will check into this.

  • Sale of Lake property – Josh said that he would like this item on the next agenda. He would like to see the sale of six additional lake properties at Lake Fort Scott.

Kevin showed the Commission a map of Lake Fort Scott and where the City property is located.

Tim said he would like to see a map actually stating where City property is at Lake Fort Scott.

  • Buoys at Lake Fort Scott – Josh asked if the buoys at Lake Fort Scott could be moved in.

Chief Shelton said that he would get with Tom Graham on this.

T. Van Hoecke – Tim said that he would like to give his condolences to the Anne Emerson family.

Tim thanked Traci Reed for her 14 years of service to the City of Fort Scott.

Tim thanked the City for the pedestrian walking signs at 1st and 2nd on National Avenue.

Tim said he asked the City Clerk to email you the unsafe structure list which she did. He would like this to be discussed at the 2/15 meeting so you will have time to review the list.

Tim handed out the 4th of July fireworks ordinance. He asked that it be amended so citizens can shoot off fireworks from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on July 3rd and July 4th. It is currently only on July 4th.

T. Van Hoecke made a motion to amend the Fireworks Ordinance to allow citizens to shoot off fireworks from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on July 3rd and July 4th. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

Approved to amend the Fireworks Ordinance to allow citizens to shoot oFF fireworks from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 a.m. (midnight) on July 3rd and July 4th.

Tim thanked Rob Harrington and Bourbon County R.E.D.I. for the announcement about Noble Health and bringing a hospital back to our community.

Tim said that he feels that the City Commission is doing good things but that is more that can still be done. He still thinks there is some division in our community, and we still have a lot of work to do. We are too small to be divided over petty things. He will do everything he can to help bridge this gap.

P. Allen – Pete said that he had reviewed the Wastewater System Evaluation Report and is very concerned about the Davis Lift Station. This lift station handles all the sewage into the City of Fort Scott. He thinks we need to prioritize our projects and make sure to address the Davis Pump Station also.

Jason Dickman said that he would look at elevations on the Old Faithful Project and the Davis Lift Station.

Pete informed Kelley that there is a manhole study that Michael Mix has.

Pete stated that that the City is working on grants with K.D.O.T. for Highway 54.

M. Wells – Matthew asked about the project on the 500 block of Andrick and if it is complete.

Kelley will check on that.

Matthew handed out a brick street proposed guideline to go with Pete’s proposed brick street and alley guideline.

Matthew asked about the Municipal Court expansion.

City Clerk told him that the two different software companies are not yet working together, and it will just take more time.

Matthew also remarked that Anne Emerson was a one-of-a-kind person who loved Fort Scott.

K. Allen – Kevin thanked Traci Reed for her 14 years of service to the City of Fort Scott.

Kevin gave the City Manager a change in the verbiage on the demolition contract for him to review.

Kevin thanked the City crews for their great work on the brick street repair they have been doing, especially the work by City Hall.

Kevin said that the person he wanted to recognize for this quarter fell and broke his hip. He asked them for suggestions.

Kevin remarked that he is excited about Noble Health coming to our community.

Kevin asked about the wooden signs at the entrance to Lake Fort Scott and the entrance to Fort Scott. Chad Cliffman can reseal these. He will send the City Manager his contact information.

Kevin informed the public that Gunn Park is closed as well as Riverfront Park due to the impending snowstorm. There is also no Municipal Court on Thursday.

He wished Josh Jones to get well.

Adjournment:

M. Wells moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:19 p.m. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 10:19 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, MMC

City Clerk