Category Archives: Government

Fort Scott, Government

Some West Side Streets Will Close To Traffic on August 25

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Starting Monday, 8/25/2025, the following streets will be closed to traffic.
8th Street from Holbrook to Crawford
Eddy Street from St. Mary’s Road (between 7th and 8th streets) to 8th Street
Eddy Street from 8th to 10th
9th Street from Crawford to Holbrook
Residents in this area will be able to access their houses during this time. Please use caution. Thank you.
Brad Matkin
City Manager
City of Fort Scott
Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission on August 19

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of August 19, 2025                                     Regular Meeting

 

A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held  in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer, Dyllon Olson, and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Pete Earles/Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Pete Allen, Lindsay Hill/FSCC, Michael Hoyt, Rob Hansen, Rory Chaplin, Alyson Goodwin/InSite Real Estate Group, Nathan Eady/Senior Manager, Economic Development & Policy–Amazon, Kirk Sharp/Gordon Parks Museum, Rachel French/Fort Scott Forward, Lewis Nihiser and Thomas Metcalf Jr/Sons of the American Legion.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the amended agenda VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1390-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of July 23, 2025 – August 12, 2025 – $662,802.14

–  Approval of Minutes:  Special Meeting of July 30, 2025; Special Meeting of August 4, 2025; and Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025.

–  Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18159 – 21-303 – Davis Lift Station – Addendum No. 4 ($11,600.00) and Addendum No. 5 ($18,600.00) – Total $30,3200.00

–  Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18141 – EEI No. 25-12 – East National Project Phase I – Survey 100% ($6,400.00) and Preliminary Design 12.5% ($12,937.50) – Total $19,337.50

–  Request to Pay – Cardinal Sitework – Application for Payment No. 2 (FINAL) – Charles Street Lift Station EEI No. 24-003B – $3,587.45

–  July Financials

 

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Comment

Lindsay Hill/FSCC – Thanked the commission for originally approving the land donation for the FRAME grant, however, the college will have to decline the land because real estate agents advised that they would likely lose money building homes in that location. HILL stated she is now the grant administrator for the college, replacing Sonia Guganani.  VAN HOECKE requested that a representative of the university be present to confirm land suitability for future infrastructure assistance requests. HOYT asked if the college had any written specifications for properties that could be shopped for during the upcoming tax sale. HILL responded that they have found a property that will work best for the college and will be coming back to the city to ask for assistance with infrastructure.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to revisit the City’s commitment to providing infrastructure development for the FRAME Grant under Item IX, New Business, Item E. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Appearances

Rachel Carpenter delivered a Tourism Report, noting that since May she has focused on promoting Fort Scott through history and culture, outdoor recreation, relaxation, and events. She reported on bus tours, events, and downtown revitalization, along with expanded marketing efforts through social media, the updated Visit Fort Scott website, radio/TV ads, and printed materials. Grants have supported promotional videos and downtown signage improvements. Upcoming goals include hosting influencer groups, expanding social media, and addressing ongoing signage challenges with KDOT. Carpenter has attended tourism conferences, partnered with the Chamber, and is exploring collaboration with Visit KC. Staff commended her leadership, and future plans include applying for a World Cup marketing grant, working with FSCC on a December initiative, and using the Placer data tool to strengthen targeted marketing.

 

Discussion was had about updating the tourism signs on Hwy 69, connecting with the upcoming African American Tourism Conference and the previous Tourism Advisory Board.

 

Thomas Metcalf Jr. – 3rd Annual Sons of American Legion Car Show – August 30, 2025 – Request for Temporary Street Closure – National Ave. between Oak St. and Pine St. The event includes cars, trucks, motorcycles, and a kids class, with trophies and cash prizes. MATKIN wanted to make it about drug awareness for kids and recommended closing off the street north of H and H to the alley to prevent traffic near the pavilion.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved  to close the recommended streets, including Fort Scott Boulevard from National to the alleyway. SALSBURY seconded.

 

ACTION:  VAN HOECKE confirmed that the Sons of the American Legion will work with the City for the requested barricades.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Unfinished Business

Public Hearing #1

MOTION:  WELLS moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Planning Commission Case No. 1052 – Conditional Use Permit – 2400 S. Main – Amazon Storage Unit – Recommended by Planning Commission on July 9, 2025 – Tabled from August 5, 2025

Transcript of Public Hearing – Attachment 1 – Amazon representative, Nathan Eady presented Amazon’s proposal for a storage unit (ASU) at 2400 South Main Street by telephone. The project aims to improve customer delivery service in rural areas. The ASU will extend delivery to new zip codes not currently serviced by Amazon. It will rely on additional flex drivers, potentially increasing employment and revenue. Current freight flex drivers will continue to receive packages as before. EADY anticipates one to two box trucks per day, smaller than semi-truck trailers. The ASU will not affect current zip codes, only new areas not currently serviced. The goal is to have a centralized deposit place for packages to expand flex deliveries, not downsize or eliminate jobs. The Planning Commission approved the Conditional Use Permit for the ASU on July 9, 2025.

 

FRENCH addressed the Commission and commented that examples of areas not currently serviced include Uniontown and Redfield.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the Conditional Use Permit for the Amazon Storage Unit recommended by the Planning Commission. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Hearing #2

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Vacation of Alley – Lewis Nihiser – Revisit requested by City Commission – Transcript of Public Hearing – Attachment 2 – The proposal to vacate an undeveloped alley in exchange for a lift station easement raised concerns among commissioners about setting a precedent, utility access, and the City’s view on giving up land. WELLS preferred a lease over a trade, others emphasized the need for a consistent process. One speaker urged a site visit and suggested moving the discussion along.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to close the public hearing. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to vacate or abandon the alley in question as a trade for the easement that we did not give you for the lift station. SALSBURY seconded.  VAN HOECKE, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes.  WELLS and OLSON voted no.

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Further discussion was had about the City’s position on street and alley vacations.

 

VAN HOECKE called for Point of Order. The Commission agreed return to the next order of business on the agenda.

 

Action Items:

Consideration of Appointment of (1) Member for FSHPRC – Tabled from August 5, 2025  

DILLON reported that the Historic Preservation Resource Commission’s process is continuing, with two additional resumes submitted for review of appointment. Discussion was had regarding applicant eligibility and documentation, as some confirmed candidates failed to submit resumes or complete applications, one lacked service on the Design Review Board, and one did not live within city limits—a stipulated requirement. Commissioners noted inconsistencies between advertised requirements and state documentation needs, with clarification that either an application or resume suffices, though residency must be established. One applicant’s residency was questioned, but their voting status, tax payments, and home ownership were cited as evidence.

 

WELLS called the question to select (1) of the (2) applicants presented for the remaining position on the FSHPRC.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to accept Kathy Dancer as the final applicant.

OLSON, WELLS, SALSBURY and VAN HOECKE voted yes. DANCER abstained.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-0.

 

DANCER requested that in the future, the Commission stick to the requirements that are published.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2025 RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 121 S. MARGRAVE – Tabled from April 15, 2025

KRUGER confirmed that the work has not been completed as agreed upon with the extension. WELLS owns the property and asked for a further extension until February to get the project going in earnest or he will demolish the structure at his expense. KRUGER stated that the structure has been on the Codes list since July 2024 (prior to WELLS ownership).

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to table Resolution No. 9-2025 until February of 2026 with the stipulation that the house will be boarded up, the windows, the entry, anything conducive to an outside intruder getting in. If Codes has any further problems that they feel it is an actual imminent threat, they’ll bring it back to the Commission immediately. SALSBURY seconded.

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-1.

 

ACTION:  WELLS will address the safety concerns discussed.

 

New Business

Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Gordon Parks Mural at Main & Wall (Wilder House Building) – Approved by Design Review Board – SHARP presented the mural project funded by the Kansas Arts Commission, to be installed on the north side of the Sunshine Boutique featuring Gordon Parks on a horse with a quote about Fort Scott. Created by artist Cbabi Bayoc. FRENCH informed the Commission that the mural was approved by SHPO, it will be installed on panels attached in the mortar and unveiled on October 4th during the Gordon Parks Celebration, with Commissioner Wells and Chase Halsey helping with installation.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Gordon Parks mural at Main St. and Wall St. on the Wilder House Building that was approved by the Design Review Board. DANCER seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes.  WELLS abstained.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-0.

 

Consideration of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive Package 2026

DILLON presented the Developer Partnership Incentive Program, offering up to $7,500 per home for utilities and sidewalks, performance-based payments upon home completion and sale, and a limit of five homes per developer annually. The program includes a $1,000 neighborhood bonus for targeted areas, marketing support, land bank partnerships, a nine-month construction timeline with a three-month extension possible, and a $50,000 annual cap was the proposal. The money for this will come from Economic Development fund.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the 2026 City of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive package as presented. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Sales Tax Ballot Question

MATKIN stated that five options were available for consideration. WELLS presented Option #6 which would be (3) separate ballot questions: 0.45% for streets, 0.1% for parks and 0.1% for public safety. Separating them out would equal .65% if all passed. Further discussion was had on all options.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to accept option one which is the 80/10/10 on the ½ cent sales tax. OLSON seconded. OLSON, DANCER, VAN HOECKE and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

 

Discussion with Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc.

WELLS requested that Earles Engineering appear before the Commission. Pete Earles addressed the Commission. WELLS praised Earles Engineering for its work on the wastewater projects but raised concerns with street projects, particularly the overlay project where the contractor failed to follow the original two-lift plan, leading to drainage issues and insufficient oversight. Questions were raised about the roles of the firm’s representatives and City staff, with Commissioners noting disappointment that an inexperienced supervisor was assigned to the Horton Street project, the City’s largest road project, which resulted in errors. In response, Earle’s Engineering pledged to assign only highly experienced personnel moving forward, naming inspectors with 30–40 years of experience, and committed to addressing concerns directly.

 

Consideration to rescind the Frame Grant Infrastructure approval

MOTION:  OLSON moved to rescind the FRAME Grant Project at 4th and Arthur and the extended infrastructure projects that were accompanying it. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project Update

– Davis Lift Station – Force Main – Bid coming

– CCLIP bid – Advertise in September, open in November to begin early spring

– Discussion of E. National as option for overpass

 

CITY ATTORNEY – Positive comments by visitors about noticeable progress in Fort Scott

 

CITY MANAGER

–  No comments

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

–  3rd Street traffic light

– Lights at skate park

– Chip Seal Project remedies

 

ACTION:  City Clerk will put Chip Seal Project remedies on September 2, 2025, Agenda

 

– Moody Building status

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

–  Reminder for school traffic safety

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

–  ADM update from 4/15/2025 handouts on website

–  WELLS requested update numbers for ADM to be posted

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY

–  Feral cats update

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

–  City events

–  Water main break

–  Awareness with school in session

–  Get involved and support local businesses and activities.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager and the City Attorney in the City Manager’s office. The open meeting will resume in Commission Room at 8:40PM. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to come out Executive Session with action.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved that the Commission provides the City Manager permission to negotiate with the County, in good faith, the exchanging of the 9-1-1 services and should an agreement not be reached, the City Manager has permission, by January 1, 2026, to terminate our services provided by the City for 9-1-1. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

           

Adjourn

MOTION:  DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:43PM. OLSON seconded.

 

AUGUST 19, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:43PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the Special Uniontown City Council Meeting on August 14

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The Special Council Meeting on August 14, 2025 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 5:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting, Interim City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

Purpose of meeting is to hire/appoint non-elected personnel.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to hire Haley Arnold for City Clerk position to start September 2, 2025 with 90 day probationary period

 

 

Moved by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 5:07PM

Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Uniontown City Council Minutes of the Meeting On August 12

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The 2026 Budget Hearing and Regular Council Meeting on August 12, 2025 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Matt Kelly, Judy Cassidy, Haley Arnold, Leah Hall, Regan Bryant, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Treasurer/Interim City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

2026 Budget Hearing –no citizens in attendance.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to adopt the 2026 Budget as presented

 

2026 Budget Hearing closed.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson presented the July 2025 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $249,350.12, Receipts $26,400.57, Transfers Out $3,024.00, Expenditures $26,745.44, Checking Account Closing Balance $245,981.25. Bank Statement Balance $254,478.97, including Checking Account Interest of $53.64, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $8,497.72, Reconciled Balance $245,981.25.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $38,287.32, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $22,987.37, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $45,153.41, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $352,409.35. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $424.17, and Utility CDs $1,273.42 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,697.59.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of July 2025, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  July Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00 for Total Transfers of $3,024.00.  Net Loss for the month of July $3,368.87, Year-to-Date Net Loss $17,882.49.  Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $98,877.38 (73.4%), Expenditures $73,404.11 (48.1%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $20,424.04 (54.9%), Expenditures $32,494.65 (70.5%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $64,418.94 (52.0%), Expenditures $68,270.29 (42.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $100,366.09 (67.0%), Expenditures $153,430.62 (71.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $3,886.52 (53.5%), Expenditures $3,047.95 (42%).  The August 2025 payables to date in the amount of $38,721.19 were presented.  The invoices from KMGA and Johnson Vaughn, PA have not been received by noon meeting day.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of July 8, 2025 Regular Council Meeting, July 19, 2025 Special Meeting, July 19, 2025 Budget Worksession, and July 21, 2025 Special Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Reports, Monthly Profit & Loss by Class Report & Appropriations Report

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan reported that letters will be sent to 201 Fulton St for tall grass/weeds (clerk will try to find an address), 101 Washington St has mowed but still needs to address backyard.  It was brought to his attention that 401 Sherman has tall grass/weeds in ditches and backyard and possible junk vehicles and 306 Hill St has a junk vehicle in driveway.  Letters will also be sent to those two addresses.  A vehicle has been parked on the easement in the 400 block of Washington St for quite some time now.  He will investigate.

 

Superintendent Rich informed the council the outlets for food trucks/vendors on the north side of the park are not working for food trucks.  Matt Kelly, Kelly Electric, was asked which ones are 50AMP and 30AMP.  He will check and mark them.  He came back later in the meeting and reported that there are no 50AMP.  He will present a quote to install two 50AMP near the breaker boxes.  He also left business cards to give to vendors if they are having trouble with the outlets.

Rich also reported that the grease gun for the gas valves is not working properly and the company we purchased from no longer works on them.  He presented a quote for a new gun and repair kit.  Interim Clerk Johnson reported that the current guns have been repaired in 2008, replaced with reconditioned ones in 2013, and repaired again in 2015.  Ervin asked about the warranty for a new gun.  Rich was unsure, but would check.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to buy a new Valtex 1400 Lubrication Gun 10M with hose and gauge for price quoted

 

Clerk Johnson reported a dog at large complaint received on 8/7 but complainant would not describe the dog or location of the incident.

Council was presented with the draft 2024 Audit.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to accept audit as presented.

 

She asked about fall citywide cleanup.  Cleanup will be August 25-28.  When order, ask if we order two dumpsters, could we get another if needed.  Since there is no billing to go out before cleanup, she will distribute flyers to Union Station, Post Office, and Union State Bank and post at City Hall and community bulletin board.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – someone painted “CLEAN DRAIN DRY” on fishing dock.  It was suggested that if may have been Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks.  Interim Clerk Johnson will check with Don George, KDWPT biologist.

Councilwoman Kelly – nothing

Councilwoman Pemberton – nothing

Councilwoman Pritchett – absent

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS

SEED Grant – Treasurer Johnson received an email requesting clarification on the Amazon invoices breakdown between the different projects.

 

FEMA Flooding (DR4800) Project – Had a conference call with FEMA and DKEM on August 6.  FEMA will provide weekly updates on progress of project through the system.  Damage Description and Dimensions (DDD) on Project Rip Rap has been reviewed, signed and submitted.  There was discussion on going ahead with the ditch/culvert work on 2nd St.  Marbery was the low bid for all four components.  If he does not get all of them there will be a $750 mobilization charge added to his bid.  He is still the lowest bidder with the addition.  Council agreed to start the 2nd St ditch/culvert work with Marbery as the contractor.

 

Sidewalk Project – Rogers & Sons started on August 5.  Mayor Jurgensen said the cost to break up & haul off concrete slab on 210 Sherman is $2,000 and he authorized that addition to project.

 

Park Electric (south side) – lines have been laid but outlets have not been installed.  Joe George volunteered to smooth dirt and seed the excavation area.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Motion by ­­­­­­­­Ervin, Second by ­­­­­­­Kelly, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss applicants and conduct interviews for non-elected personnel position, the open meeting to resume at 10:40PM

 

Cassidy called in at 8:30PM, out at 8:35PM, Arnold called in at 8:36PM, out at 8:59PM, Hall called in at 9:00PM, out at 9:11PM, Bryant called in at 9:12PM, out at 9:43PM, Johnson called in at 9:52PM, out at 10:15PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 10:40PM.  No action from executive session.

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 10:40PM

Government

US Representative Derek Schmidt Newsletter

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Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

 

Our extended District Work Period is in full swing. I was home in Kansas last week, speaking with the folks I’m blessed to represent across the Second District.

Removing Big Government from Kansans’ Lives

I’ve repeatedly cited the Congressional Review Act (CRA) as an incredibly important tool to remove the intrusion of big government from Kansans’ lives. The CRA allows Congress to remove any federal rule within 60 legislative days of its enactment, a period known as the “CRA lookback window.” After a disapproval resolution is introduced, it must be approved by both chambers of Congress before being signed by the President.

 

Earlier this year, I introduced the Congressional Review Reform Act (CRRA). My legislation would eliminate the CRA’s 60 legislative day lookback period, allowing Congress to disapprove of any federal agency rule, regardless of when it was implemented.

 

Last week, Nick Clifford of the Pacific Legal Foundation – a group who “defends Americans’ liberties against government overreach and abuse” – penned an excellent op-ed in support of my legislation.

As Mr. Clifford aptly points out, there are several major issues with the CRA in its current form. First, it’s confusing: “experts struggle to pinpoint exactly when it opens and closes, since it’s determined by congressional parliamentarians.” The Biden Administration issued a staggering 1,406 federal agency rules from August 16, 2024-January 20, 2025. Moving the start of the looback period up or back by just one day could have MASSIVE implications on Congress’s ability to provide an important check on the Executive’s power.

 

Second, using the CRA is often difficult because it requires a Presidential signature to take effect. If Congress holds differing beliefs from the President, it “can only effectively disapprove of executive actions with a veto-proof majority.” In today’s political climate, achieving a 2/3 majority in both chambers is incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Congress should have lawmaking power regardless of who lives in the White House.

 

Since its creation in 1996, the CRA has only been used to overturn 36 rules. In that time period, the number of pages in the Federal Register has increased by roughly 40,000. Congress has Article I power and obligation to make federal laws; it should not be this difficult for us to overturn regulations imposed by unelected bureaucrats. My legislation would provide an important fix for these issues and return lawmaking power to where it belongs: the people.

The Wall That Heals

This past week, the Wall that Heals visited the Second District. The Wall is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, that bears the name of nearly 60,000 heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice or were reported missing during the conflict, including hundreds of Kansans. I had the opportunity to visit on Thursday.

The Wall is a solemn reminder that freedom isn’t free. It’s also a call to action for those in government to ensure our nation is honoring its promises to those who’ve served. We remain committed to keeping those promises; in fact, the House recently advanced the annual appropriations bill that provides funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Our legislation makes historic investments in veterans’ care by increasing funding levels from fiscal year 2025, ensuring former servicemembers have access to the full scope of benefits they’ve earned.

 

Thank you to all those in Kansas and across our great country who have answered the call to defend our nation. We owe you a debt of gratitude we will never be able to repay.

Supporting Kansas Farmers & Ranchers

The “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” contains huge wins for farmers and ranchers across Kansas. The version of the bill signed into law by President Trump improves crop insurance affordability, strengthens farm safety net programs, protects America’s farmers from foreign competition, and roots out waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

 

Though Congress delivered wins to our farmers before leaving for our extended district work period, we MUST pass the long overdue Farm Bill when we return to Washington. I recently joined KVOE to discuss how important it is to enact this legislation and what I hope to see included.

I truly believe there’s a large appetite for a bipartisan farm bill on Capitol Hill. Everyone recognizes how important it is to provide long-term stability to our nation’s agricultural producers. As my colleagues and I work to provide our farmers and ranchers with increased foreign market access, we must ensure they have the resources they need to succeed at home. Simply kicking the can down the road – which Congress has done for years – doesn’t cut it. I’m committed to passing a comprehensive package that ensures those who feed, clothe, and fuel our country can achieve both short- and long-term success.

Summer Interns

Thank you to Jackson, Fayaz, and Halle, who recently completed their internships with my office!

All three of these Kansans worked hard to provide the people of the Second District with excellent service all summer. I’m truly grateful for their dedication; they certainly have bright futures ahead of them!

 

If you or someone you know is interested in applying for an internship in my office, please click here.

Though it often seems like there’s a lot going on – and there is – I’d ask you to remember this: your representatives in government – including myself – are working hard to enact the changes you expect us to. Progress can seem slow at times, but I truly feel we’re well on our way to righting the ship and restoring our nation’s greatness.

As always, my office is here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Be sure to also follow me on social media at the links below for timely updates from my office.

 

It’s an incredible honor to represent our Second Congressional District in Congress!

Sincerely,

Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress

Washington D.C. Office
1223 Longworth

House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Topeka Office

3550 SW 5th St.

Suite B

Topeka, KS 66606

Pittsburg Office

402 North Broadway St.

Suite B

Pittsburg, KS  66762
 

Fort Scott, Government

Agenda For the FS City Commission on August 19

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    NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

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

August 19, 2025  –  6:00 P.M.

 

 

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

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1390-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of July 23, 2025 – August 12, 2025 – $662,802.14
  4. Approval of Minutes: Special Meeting of July 30, 2025; Special Meeting of August 4, 2025; and Regular Meeting of August 5, 2025.
  5. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18159 – 21-303 – Davis Lift Station – Addendum No. 4 ($11,600.00) and Addendum No. 5 ($18,600.00) – Total $30,3200.00
  6. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice No. 18141 – EEI No. 25-12 – East National Project Phase I – Survey 100% ($6,400.00) and Preliminary Design 12.5% ($12,937.50) – Total $19,337.50
  7. Request to Pay – Cardinal Sitework – Application for Payment No. 2 (FINAL) – Charles Street Lift Station EEI No. 24-003B – $3,587.45
  8. July Financials

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Rachel Carpenter – Tourism Report
  2. Thomas Metcalf Jr. – 3rd Annual Sons of American Legion Car Show – August 30, 2025 – Request for Temporary Street Closure – National Ave. between Oak St. and Pine St.

 

VIII.   Unfinished Business

Public Hearing:

  1. Planning Commission Case No. 1052 – Conditional Use Permit – 2400 S. Main – Amazon Storage Unit – Recommended by Planning Commission on July 9, 2025 – Tabled from August 5, 2025
  2. Vacation of Alley – Lewis Nihiser – Revisit requested by City Commission

 

Action Items:

  1. A. Consideration of Appointment of (1) Member for FSHPRC – Tabled from August 5,

2025  – L. Dillon

 

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2025 RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 121 S. MARGRAVE – Tabled from April 15, 2025

 

  1. New Business
  2. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – Gordon Parks Mural at Main & Wall (Wilder House Building) – Approved by Design Review Board – L. Dillon
  1. Consideration of Fort Scott Developer Partnership Incentive Package 2026 – L. Dillon
  2. Consideration of Sales Tax Ballot Question – B. Matkin
  3. Discussion with Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Requested by M. Wells

 

  1. Reports and Comments
  2. Adjourn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Government, Schools

USD235 New Teachers, Goals, and Construction Projects in 2025

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Vance Eden from the district’s website.
Students start school in USD235, Uniontown, on August 20.
“We anticipate enrollment numbers being similar to what it was last year,” said Superintendent Vance Eden. “We frequently see fluctuations in enrollment all the way through the first week of school, though.”
This year, there is a new athletic director/assistant principal, Megan Mason.
Additionally, the following new teachers are: Aidan Abandon, high school history; Jennifer Ziegler, high school English; Cole Criss, junior/senior high physical education; Lauren Shinn, 6th grade; and Dallas Masoner, 6th grade.
The teachers in new assignments this year are Jenny Covey, 3rd grade; Rose Gauthier, 2nd grade; and Haley Troutman, Kindergarten.
“The kindergarten through 8th grade have new math resources this year, and there is a sprinkling of new supplementary materials throughout the district,” Eden said.
“A noteworthy item, the new ag shop will provide students with a better learning and shop space,” Eden said. “We are excited for what this can mean for the (agriculture) program.”
“For pre-kindergarten, we opened enrollment to three-year-old students who meet the necessary criteria for participation. We are excited to provide this opportunity to families and those young learners.”
“The district has adopted six goals as part of this year’s strategic plan.  Those include:
  • 1.5-  Conduct a thorough review of literacy and math proficiency rates K-12 to determine successes, trends, and potential gaps.
  • 1.8- Conduct a review of discipline policies and align them and their implementation to district objectives of clarity, consistency, and accountability.
  • 2.3-  Support staff development efforts through shadowing other educators in other districts.
  • 2.8-  Develop additional ways to utilize hands-on and experiential learning opportunities.
  • 3.4-  Develop additional ways to recognize students who are consistently meeting specific expectations.
  • 3.6-  Increase timely, consistent, and effective communication between schools and families. Consider options with apps, newsletters, and additional surveys for input.”
“Aside from that, the district will be completing all of the relevant construction projects related to the passing of the bond  (last year approved by constituents) over the next year. Timelines for those individual projects vary.”