A convention of the Bourbon County Republican party committee members was held on August 4 to decide who would fill Lynne Oharah’s Bourbon County Commissioner District 1 position.
After the rules of selection were explained, the Republican committee had two individuals who asked to be considered: Donald Coffman and Nelson Blythe.
Mark McCoy. Submitted photo.
“Each candidate was given three minutes to address our meeting, after this portion, the candidate and any of the public were asked to leave,” said Chairman Mark McCoy. “Much discussion took place amongst us. A motion was made to appoint Mr. Blythe by an acclamation motion, it was seconded, and all in attendance answered in the affirmative.”
The required state form was sent certified mail on Friday, August 5 to the governor’s office, McCoy said.
“In my experience, the governor will notify our county clerk within 10 days,” he said.
Nelson Blythe will start mid-August as the new commissioner.
Nelson Blythe
Nelson Blythe, 28, worked as a deputy for the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office for approximately four years. Since 2021, he has worked as a deputy for the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff in Linn County is flexible in scheduling personnel, he said, and that will allow him to be present at the commission meetings, which typically meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays at the courthouse.
One thing that motivated him to run for the commissioner position was being involved in Bourbon County.
“When I went to Linn County, I didn’t like missing out on what is going in Bourbon County,” he said.
“I maintained good working relationships with most of the people who work in the court house, especially in the county attorney’s office,” according to a press release from Blythe. “I believe that my professional relationship with the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office will help smooth the sometimes rocky relationship with the commission.”
Additionally, Blythe said he is glad he will be “in a position to defend our rights from state and federal governance.”
“Local elected officials need to be willing to stand up to state and federal authorities that violate the Constitution,” he said. “This isn’t an extreme view. It is a methodical, constitutional, conservative, law-abiding, Christian mindset.”
Blythe has been married to Euna for six years.
He is the son of Bud and Lee Belle Blythe of rural Uniontown. He lives on part of the farm that has been handed down in his family for over 150 years. His grandparents were Kaley and Julia Blythe.
He is the youngest of Bud and Lee Belle’s five children and one of the three triplets. His older brother, Paden, works for the Fort Scott Police Department; his older sister, Katie Dyastra lives with her husband and three children in Fort Scott, and his sister, Hannah Stark and husband live in Fort Scott.
His identical twin brother, Kaley, is married to Kelsey and they have one child. He also lives on a part of the Blythe family farm.
Blythe earned a bachelors of science degree from Pittsburg State University in business administration.
The Kansas Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the fall 2022 round of the agency’s Cost Share Program. More than $100 million has been given to Kansas communities since the Cost Share Program’s began in 2019.
The Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for construction projects that improve safety, leverage state funds to increase total transportation investment and help both rural and urban areas of the state improve the transportation system. This is the seventh round of projects to receive funding.
“The continuation of the Cost Share Program shows KDOT’s ongoing commitment to improving transportation and creating economic growth and job opportunities across Kansas,” said Michelle Needham, Economic Development Programs Manager. “Past Cost Share participants have proven this program to be the financial boost that many small and large communities needed to achieve their project goals.”
An informational webinar on the program will take place on Thursday, Aug. 18, at 10 a.m. The application process will be discussed, and attendees can ask questions. To register for the webinar, go to: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VeQ_i8kSQyu9gc7VprLd1g
All transportation projects are eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, airport, bicycle/pedestrian and public transit. Candidate projects should include investments that provide transportation benefits and are not eligible for other KDOT programs. This round of grant funding has an overall budget of $11 million, with a maximum awarded amount of $1.5 million per project.
The deadline to submit applications is Sept. 15. More information and the application link are on KDOT’s website at http://www.ksdot.org/CostShare/CostShareProgram.asp. All applications will be completed online, and a sample PDF application will be available for preview.
Agenda Bourbon County Commission Room 1stFloor, County Courthouse 210 S. National Avenue Fort Scott, KS 66701 Tuesdaysstarting at 9:00 Date: August 9, 2022 1stDistrict–Lynne OharahMinutes:Approved:_______________ 2ndDistrict–JimHarrisCorrected: _______________________ 3rdDistrict–Clifton BethAdjourned 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 & Bridge Report •Bill Martin–Drug Detectives •Bob Reed–Jail Update •Teri Hulsey–EMS Update •Justin Meeks–County Counselor Comment •Susan Bancroft–Chief Financial Officer Comment •Shane Walker–Chief Information Officer Comment •Public Comment •CommissionComment Justifications for Executive Session: KSA 75–4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters ofindividualnonelected personnelto protect their privacy KSA 75–4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agencywhich would be deemed privileged in the attorney–client relationship KSA 75–4319(b)(3) To discussmatters relating toemployer–employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of thebody or agency KSA 75–4319(b)(4)To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships KSA 75–4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property KSA75–4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.
The Fort Scott City Commission will meet on Tuesday, August 9th, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Hall Commission Meeting Room at 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas to hold a work session to discuss the 2023 budget. This work session is open to the public, but no action will be taken.
The work session will also be available on the City’s YouTube channel.
KCC Pipeline Safety Seminar – October 26-27, Manhattan
Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan
Smith Estate
Clerk Report: Sally Johnson
HBCAT Placemaking Project – need budget numbers
KMEA/KMGA Annual Conference – September 29-30, Wichita
Fall Citywide Cleanup –
BBCO Health Dept Flu Shot Clinic – would like to hold a clinic at Community Center on October 13
November Regular Council Meeting Date – on election day
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin – KMGA Regional Meeting report
Councilwoman Esslinger –
Councilman Hartman –
Councilwoman Kelly –
Councilman Stewart–
Mayor Jurgensen –
OLD BUSINESS
American Rescue Plan Act update–
2023 Budget – Gas Surcharge/Loan
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by __________, Second by ___________, Approved _______ to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at ___________.
ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________
The Regular Council Meeting on July 12, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Raymond George, Uniontown Ruritan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Open Bids for School Pond Improvement Project – no bids received. Clerk Johnson will reach out to Don George, KDWPT, to determine next step.
2022 Financial Audit presentation – auditor is still waiting on an answer from the state for clarification on the budgeting of the gas utility loan repayments. She will present next month.
Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Mr George showed the council samples for the stall partitions (his choice navy graphite) and asked about color for the epoxy for the floor (his choice maroon). His choice will be okay for bother, recommended a dark color for the floor. The sidewalk to the facility was poured today and they will put up the rafters tomorrow. Clerk Johnson asked for clarification on the concrete invoices for the sidewalks.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to pay Uniontown Ruritan for half of the concrete invoices, $859.29, for sidewalks
CITIZENS REQUEST
None
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger presented the June 2022 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $343,297.29, Receipts $68,014.78, Transfers Out $5,026.00, Expenditures $34,520.81, Checking Account Closing Balance $371,765.26. Bank Statement Balance $375,547.36, including Checking Account Interest of $30.03, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $3,782.10, Reconciled Balance $371,765.26. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,100.97, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,593.23, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,381.43, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $448,840.89. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $176.59, and Utility CDs $168.40 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $344.99. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of June 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. June Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00 and to Lease Purchase Fund-Maint Vehicle $500.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00 and to Lease Purchase Fund-Maint Vehicle $500.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Lease Purchase Fund-Maint Vehicle $500.00; from General Fund to Lease Purchase Fund-Maint Vehicle $500.00, Total Transfers of $5,026.00. Net Income for the month of June $28,467.97, Year-to-Date Net Income $48,021.76. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $54,478.97 (51.7%), Expenditures $52,887.27 (40.5%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $17,479.06 (49.0%), Expenditures $21,248.5 (51.8%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $84,275.58 (60.4%), Expenditures $77,231.68 (31.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $94,259.14 (73.4%), Expenditures $78,216.43 (47.3%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $3,578.39 (52.2%), Expenditures $1,041.18 (9.8%). The July 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $25,923.51 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
Minutes of June 14, 2022 Regular Council Meeting and June 29, 2022 Budget Worksession
Superintendent Rich reported KDOT was here for a Safety Inspection. He has corrected all items discussed during the inspection.
It is time for lead and copper testing of the water system.
The water and sewer lines for the Ruritan bathroom project was discussed.
Lightning struck the telemetry at Redfield pump station at 2:37AM, 7/12/2022.
Councilmembers thank him for park looking so nice for the Independence Day Bash. Councilwoman Kelly inquired if Rich was keeping up without help this summer. He has not fogged for mosquitos yet this year and there have been no complaints.
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that demolition has started at 404 Washington. We still have not received a list of planned rehabilitation and timeline. Clerk Johnson will reach out to partners.
He has not received anything from the attorney regarding the Smith Estate. Clerk Johnson will follow-up.
Clerk Johnson informed the council that KMU will be hosting a water training at Uniontown Community Center on November 1. It is on lead and copper revised rule and surface water treatment. It is free and attendees will receive 5 CEUs.
Motion by Esslinger, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to approve Bobby Rich attending if he so chooses
A letter was received from League of Kansas Municipalities asking the governing body to thank our legislators for supporting local government.
The response to KCC notice of probable noncompliance identified during the KCC inspection in May was reviewed and our response and proposed plan of action was accepted with no recommendation for civil penalty.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – BBCO REDI is planning a visioning session and asked for which of the three suggested dates (August 23, August 30, or September 13) will work for our governing body. August 23 or 30 will work. Once plans are finalized council members will let Clerk Johnson know if they are attending in order to notify the public of a possible quorum. He also asked Clerk Johnson to send him the KMGA Regional Meeting particulars again. 403 Sherman has a complaint about water readings and usage. Clerk Johnson will send information on the readings and consumption to him to go over with citizen.
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – pothole on Fifth St is getting bigger. Superintendent Rich is adding gravel often until he can get some saturock ordered.
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – a thank you note for Union State Bank was passed around for signatures. Clerk Johnson will take to bank tomorrow.
OLD BUSINESS
American Rescue Plan Act update – We have received $40,288.82 and will be used for upgrade to the warehouse and/or bathrooms at City Hall. All funds must be encumbered by December 31, 2024 and expended by December 31, 2026. Coyan developed a drawing and specs for the bathroom upgrade and is soliciting contractors to bid. He is also soliciting contractors to bid on the re-skinning of the warehouse, replacement of east rollup door and addition of rollup door on south.
Street Repair – Mayor Jurgensen had a map of suggested areas to resurface – S Washington St from First St south to Chaffin St, Sherman St from Second St south to Union St, Third St from Sherman St east to Fulton St, Seventh St from Washington St east to Sherman St, a few feet of Sherman St south of Seventh St, Third St from Fulton St east to Clay St. It was suggested to mill and compact gravel certain sections then overlay next year to repair sinking areas. An invitation for bids will be published. Clerk Johnson will contact SEK Regional Planning Commission to see if there are grant funds available for city streets.
NEW BUSINESS
2023 Budget – mil rate last year was 36.899, council intends to exceed revenue neutral rate but lower the mil from last year.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to notify County Clerk that the City of Uniontown intends to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate and will hold a Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing on September 12, 2022 at 6:45PM at the Uniontown Community Center and the proposed mil rate is 35.312
Clerk Johnson will send notice to the county clerk.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:10PM.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance on non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:20PM
Open meeting resumed at 9:20PM. There was discussion on the social media posting regarding the impound kennel and the subsequent vandalism at the kennel. Council will gather more information and leave the kennel where it is for now and revisit the issue next month.
Moved by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 9:56PM
The City Commission will reconvene on Thursday, August 4th, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. for the postponed meeting from August 2nd, 2022. at City Hall in the City Commission meeting room at 123 South Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.
This meeting is open to the public and will be broadcast on the City’s you tube channel.
Bob Reed is the Bourbon County Law Enforcement Center Administrator. Taken from the jail’s website.
On June 16, 2022, Bourbon County Jail Administrator Bob Reed announced that inmates are being sent to other counties, because of staffing shortages.
On that day he announced that approximately 56 inmates out of 65 are being housed elsewhere, with a cost to the county of $40 per day per inmate.
Reed said he and Sheriff Bill Martin are still working on the problem.
“As of 08-01-2022 we have 30 inmates (out of 54) being housed out,” Reed said. ” Depending on the county that is $35-45 per inmate per day.”
Currently, there are 24 being housed in Bourbon County with the rest in Allen, Cherokee, and Wilson County’s jails, according to the jail’s daily reports.
The Bourbon County Law Enforcement staff are still transporting inmates for hearings, etc.
“Some hearings are done by zoom and some are done in person,” Reed said. ” The ones that are done in person are obviously transported here from the county they are being housed in and then transported back.”
“I currently have nine employees,” he said. “Three to five more will get us going.” Sixteen would make the jail fully staffed, he said.
“I have not been fully staffed for a long time,” he said.
Since June Sheriff Bill Martin and Reed have worked to raise the base pay from $12.50 an hour to $14.50 an hour, he said.
He said the county offers standard benefits of eye, health, dental, major medical insurance, sick time, and vacation.
Bourbon County Sheriff Bill Martin works at his desk at the Bourbon County Law Enforcement Center, Fort Scott.
TOPEKA – Kansas cities and counties needing to replace or repair locally owned bridges have a supportive partner in the Kansas Department of Transportation. The agency is improving programs and collaborating with partners to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
KDOT has reshaped two local bridge improvement programs which focus on city and county bridges to include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years. The increase will more than double and triple local bridge improvement funds currently available in these programs under the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).
KDOT’s Off-System Bridge Program (OSB) will be expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. (Starting Federal Fiscal Year 2024)
The Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) will increase from $5 million annually to $20 million. (Starting State Fiscal Year 2023)
The application process for both programs is now underway. Awarded funds will be directed to rebuild and rehabilitate bridges located on roads both on and off the federal-aid system.
“We’re being both smart and pro-active by improving programs, streamlining processes and helping our partners make the most of these new Federal funds,” said Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “KDOT’s Bureau of Local Projects is administering these funds through existing IKE programs in order to minimize paperwork and to expedite the launch of projects.”
KDOT will cap individual projects at $2 million for the combined state and federal funds under OSB. The local match requirements for the KLBIP program are based on a sliding scale that takes population density of the county. Both programs award funds through a competitive application process.
Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair.
Applications for both programs must be received by Friday, Sept. 2. Additional information is available by contacting either:
Veterans Need the PACT Act Passed Now The most important business before the United States Senate is passing the SFC Heath Robinson PACT Act for our nation’s veterans. This weekend, I spoke with my Senate colleagues, both Democrats and Republicans, veteran committee staff and veterans in Kansas about getting the PACT Act passed as quickly as possible. I introduced this historic bill, advocated for this bill, voted for this bill and I will work until we have this bill done and signed into law.
On Thursday, I spoke on the Senate floor urging my Senate colleagues to support the PACT Act. Veterans need this bipartisan legislation passed now. This is an issue that’s taken too long to resolve – delivering health care and benefits to thousands of veterans who are ill due to their exposure to burn pits and other toxic substances. For more than two years, I have worked with Sen. Tester, our colleagues in the House and Senate, multiple VSOs, veterans and their families to provide veterans with the health care and benefits they deserve.
As the lead Republican on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I have worked to make certain this bill is the best version that it can be. There are not many certainties when it comes to Congress, but I assure our veterans, we will get this bill passed; and we will get it signed into law.
Unveiling Amelia Earhart’s Statue in the U.S. Capitol
This week, I joined members of the Kansas delegation and Congressional leadership in unveiling a statue of our state’s very own Amelia Earhart in the U.S. Capitol. Her statue now joins President Dwight D. Eisenhower representing Kansas as part of the National Statuary Hall Collection. With Dwight D. Eisenhower and now Amelia Earhart, Kansas officially has two of the most iconic and recognizable American heroes representing any state in the United States Capitol.
Amelia Earhart is someone who is recognized for her historic renown as an aviator, but also someone who broke barriers, created opportunities for others and captivated the attention of the world with her adventurous spirit. Between two and three million people from around the world visit the U.S. Capitol every year. It is my hope that this statue of Amelia Earhart will encourage other girls and boys from small towns across the country to dream big and work hard to achieve their dreams. And for those who can’t travel to the U.S. Capitol, they can visit the Amelia Earhart Hanger Museum in Atchison where a replica statue will be on display of a determined young woman with short cut hair, a curious smile, a bomber hat in hand and a sunflower on her belt buckle.
I want to thank a few people who attended the ceremony this week, and without their hard work, the Amelia Earhart statue would not have been possible: Jacque Pregont, Karen Seaberg and Rick and Reed Berger with the Atchison Amelia Earhart Foundation. Thank you for never giving up on Amelia and leading the effort to bring this statue to the United States Capitol.
You can watch my full speech during the Amelia Earhart Statue Dedication Ceremony here.
Fox News Interview on Sen. Schumer’s Tax and Spending Spree
On Saturday, I joined Fox News before the Dodge City Days Parade to discuss Sen. Schumer’s reckless tax and spending spree. In Dodge City, folks are worried about the rising costs of everything and are saying times are tough for us and that Congress needs to get spending under control.
With inflation at a 41-year high and two consecutive quarters of negative GDP, Sen. Schumer wants to spend more money, raise taxes and attack American energy production. This makes no sense.
Kansas is an energy-producing state, and I’m for an all-of-the-above energy strategy that includes oil, gas, ethanol, wind, solar and electric. We need pro-growth policies, not more spending and higher taxes.
Kansas Grain and Feed Association
On Wednesday, I met with the 2022 Tomorrow’s Agribusiness Leaders class, a leadership and professional development program for members of the Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Agribusiness Retailers Association. During our meeting, we discussed issues facing producers and grain handlers, including difficulties in shipping products to market. They conveyed the importance of crop protection products for growing high-yield crops, as these products help make it possible for farmers to feed the world. We also discussed Farm Bill priorities, such as the working lands conservation program, which encourages good land stewardship and soil health while keeping land in production. I look forward to advancing our shared priorities in the upcoming Farm Bill and continuing to advocate for producers in Washington, D.C.
Pittsburg State University
This week, I was pleased to meet with Professor Amy Hite from the Irene Ransom Bradley School of Nursing at Pittsburg State University (PSU) during her visit to Washington, D.C. for the Nurse Practitioner Consortium Conference. Amy spoke with me about the Kansas Nurse Practitioner Residency Program, a partnership among PSU, Ascension Via Christi, Girard Medical Center, and the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, a topic she presented on during the conference. We also discussed the important role of medical education partnerships with local health care providers in addressing the health care workforce shortage, which is especially prevalent in Kansas’ rural communities. Without proper education and training for future medical professionals, our rural towns will struggle to strengthen our health care workforce. It is local efforts like PSU’s that will truly make the difference. Thank you to Professor Hite for taking the time to speak with me during your visit to D.C. and for your work to train our future generations of nurse practitioners.
American Legion Boys Nation and American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to meet with young Kansans visiting D.C. who are participating in the American Legion Boys Nation and American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation, both selective, educational programs for high school juniors. Through these respective programs, high school students learn about government, public service and civic responsibility and have opportunities to exercise leadership skills and participate in the political process. These young men and women were each elected by their peers from these respective programs to represent Kansas in Washington. While in the nation’s capital, they receive valuable educational and leadership experience as they learn about the structure and function of the federal government.
We also discussed the value and responsibility of public service. Visiting with our future leaders is always a highlight for me, and I know these young people will go on to do great things for our state and country in the future. Thank you to Konnor Quinn-Coleman from Leavenworth, Lukas Haas from Overland Park, Grace Malin from Lawrence and Isobel Li from Overland Park for meeting with me.
Boyd Family from Mission Hills
I was pleased to meet Rick and Gayle Boyd, along with their children, Georgia and Hampton, during their visit to my Washington, D.C. office for a Capitol tour led by my staff.
Springer Family from Lenexa
I also enjoyed meeting Steven and Jessica Springer and their children, Grace, Faith and Christian, when they visited my D.C. office for a Capitol tour.
Attending Dodge City Days This weekend, while attending Dodge City Days, I was especially honored to meet Jean Lantis, a 104-year-old resident of Dodge City who, along with her late husband Bob, has raised horses and cattle in the area for years. It was great to hear about all the ways she has invested in the local community throughout the years.
Dodge City Western Days Parade A highlight of the festivities in Dodge City this weekend was the Dodge City Western Days Parade. It is always good to see familiar faces and to visit with Kansans, and this weekend’s parade was no exception. Thank you to all who came out and participated in this great event. It was also great to visit with AG Derek Schmidt, Melanie and Gary Harshberger and Dr. Scott and Mark Fischer during the parade.
Hilmar Hamburger Feed
While in Dodge City, I also attended the Hilmar Cheese Hamburger Feed where Hilmar CEO David Ahlem and members of his team provided hundreds of hamburgers for the event. Last year, Hilmar Cheese announced they will be building a new, state-of-the-art cheese factory in Dodge City. I have long been an advocate of expanding dairy and dairy processing in western Kansas, and I am pleased to see Hilmar’s efforts to establish operations here and to support the community.
Announcing Apache Digital Twin at Wichita State University’s NIAR
On Friday, I was in the Air Capital of the World to help announce the creation of the Apache Digital Twin at Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR). This important program will extend the useful lifespan of the world’s most advanced, proven attack helicopter as the U.S. Army advances our nation’s security interests. As a Defense Appropriator, I am pleased that Pentagon leadership continues to solidify the important role NIAR plays in the defense of our nation. Thank you to Wichita State President Rick Muma and Senior Vice President for Industry & Defense Programs John Tomblin for their continued leadership in this crucial field. Thank you also to Major Generals Todd Royar and Wally Rugen as well as Brigadier Generals Rob Barrie, Jr. and Francisco Lozano for participating in this important announcement.
Recruiting Efforts Successful to Wichita – Operations Center and Corporate Headquarters While I was in Wichita, I also joined Novacoast, a national leader in cybersecurity development, to announce its decision to relocate its corporate headquarters to Wichita from California. This exciting announcement comes shortly following the news of Novacoast opening its new Security Operations Center in downtown Wichita earlier this year. This move by Novacoast is further confirmation of the crucial role Wichita plays as a thriving hub for business, and solidifies opportunities for regional Kansas leaders in cybersecurity technology research and development, including Wichita State University, Friends University, Butler Community College and the 177th Information Aggressor Squadron at McConnell Air Force Base.
Our state continues to be an important leader in this field, and South Central Kansas is quickly becoming a pipeline for some of our nation’s most talented cybersecurity professionals. Novacoast’s presence is creating many rewarding partnerships, along with well-paying technology industry jobs for our community. Congratulations to Greater Wichita Partnership CEO Jeff Fluhr and his team for leading this successful recruitment effort. Special thanks to Novacoast CEO Paul Anderson for his leadership and for making Wichita home for his company and employees.
More Physician Education in Kansas! 91 Students Started Today On Friday evening, I spoke at the grand opening of the Kansas Health Science Center’s Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine (KansasCOM). Headquartered in downtown Wichita, KansasCOM is our state’s first osteopathic medical school. Here, students will participate in a program that combines innovative, integrative and holistic teaching methods that prepare them to meet the health care needs of patients. A foundational part of this college’s mission is to address disparities in health care access between urban and rural regions of Kansas. As a member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee and member of the Appropriations Committee, I remain committed to developing policy and identifying resources to assist this college in fulfilling its mission to serve Kansans. Thank you to the local and state leaders who attended this grand opening in support of this school. Special thanks to Dr. Tiffany Masson, President of Kansas Health Science Center, Dr. Vadim Levitin, Chair of the Kansas Health Science Center Board and Dr. Michael Horowitz, President of TCS Education System, for their leadership and the work they have done to bring this health care resource to our state.
Recognizing Tyler York as Distinguished Young Professional of 2022 This weekend, I had the opportunity to present Tyler York with the award for Distinguished Young Professional of 2022, recognition he earned from the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. Tyler’s dedication to our state and heart for public service have been apparent to all throughout the years he has spent working tirelessly on behalf of Kansans in my office. I was honored to be there to present him with this award and to celebrate his accomplishments, as well as the positive influence he has had on his community.
Visiting Hillsboro Community Hospital Leadership
On Friday, I visited the Hillsboro Community Hospital to check in to see the latest changes. Hillsboro Community Hospital is a 15-bed critical access hospital providing medical services including emergency services, a full-service laboratory, inpatient care, radiology, surgery, physical therapy and more. Thank you to CEO Mark Rooker for hosting me on this tour and to Hillsboro City Administrator Matt Stiles for joining us as well.
Announcing New Federal Resources for Ford County Sheriff’s Department
This weekend, I announced an investment of new federal resources for the Ford County Sheriff’s Department. Our law enforcement officers work tirelessly to protect our local communities, and they need our support in this difficult work. I joined Sheriff Bill Carr and Undersheriff Dale Coleman in announcing a new grant to purchase body and in-car cameras for their officers, a crucial investment in new technology for their office. I appreciate the work of the Ford County Sheriff’s Department in keeping our residents safe and look forward to continuing to support their efforts.
Meeting with Ambassador Hautala
This week, I welcomed Finland’s ambassador to the United States, Mikko Hautala, to my Washington, D.C. office to discuss Finland’s bid to join NATO and the current threats to European security. Finland borders Russia for 830 miles and takes its defense seriously—it will exceed the 2 percent GDP spending on its military, maintains high readiness, and already works well with NATO. Previously stationed in Moscow, Ambassador Hautala shared valuable insight into Russia and Vladimir Putin’s imperial ambitions. To protect another European country from invasion, I intend to support Finland’s accession when the Senate votes in the near future. During our meeting, Ambassador Hautala and I also discussed the need for other European countries to do more to contribute to the collective defense as America seeks to focus on the Pacific. Listening to the perspective of our European friends is important, and I thank Ambassador Hautala for making the time to visit.
Attending the Kansas Society Annual Banquet On Wednesday evening, I attended the annual Kansas State Society Dinner in Washington, D.C. This event is an opportunity for Kansans to gather together and share pride in our state. It was great to see so many friends and colleagues who attended. As part of the program, I was honored to present Senator Pat Roberts with the 2022 Kansan of the Year award. Sen. Roberts has been a friend to me throughout the years and has always exemplified true public service. I appreciate his quick wit and wise advice. It was also a pleasure to hear from the 2022 Kansas Cherry Blossom Princess, Jenny Nguyen. Thank you to the members of the Kansas delegation who attended this event and to all at the Kansas State Society for hosting.
Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Hearing on Pending Nominations
This week, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing to consider nominees to serve as General Counsel and Board of Veterans’ Appeals Chairman at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The General Counsel must make certain the VA is following the laws Congress passes. The BVA Chairman is charged with making sure that the VA gets decisions on veterans’ claims right, so veterans can access the benefits they deserve. Both roles are key positions tasked with making certain the VA is delivering for our veterans.
During this hearing, I reminded the two nominees of the important relationship between Congress and the VA and how critical it is for the VA to faithfully execute the law so veterans can access the care and benefits they deserve. The work my colleagues and I do in Washington, D.C. is driven by what we hear from our constituents in our states. It is vital that these nominees, and any leaders within the VA, always keep foremost in their minds that the programs and policies we charge them with implementing are for those veteran constituents we talk to and whom we are trying to assist. I was pleased by the response of each nominee on the important, collaborative relationship that the VA and Congress must have, and I appreciated their commitments to work collaboratively with our committee as we all try to better serve veterans.
Briefing by the Department of Justice
On Thursday, I received a briefing from the Assistant Attorney General for the Criminal division at the Department of Justice on the department’s decision not to pursue criminal prosecutions against the FBI agent who failed to investigate allegations of sexual assault. In 2018, I lead an 18-month-long investigation into the decades of abuse of amateur and Olympic athletes by Larry Nassar, and the systemic failure of those in positions of power, including the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), USA Gymnastics, Michigan State University, and even the FBI, to protect young athletes after learning of credible claims of abuse. In particular, we learned of significant misconduct by at least two FBI agents in the Indianapolis field office who knew of Nassar’s abuse, failed to act and made false and misleading statements in documenting the case and describing their conduct to DOJ Inspector General (IG) investigators. After conducting an investigation into this misconduct, the DOJ Inspector General made criminal referrals to the department for possible prosecution. Ultimately, however, the DOJ declined to pursue prosecution.
I am appalled by the FBI’s gross mishandling of the specific warnings its agents received about Larry Nassar’s horrific abuse years before he was finally arrested. This failure by the FBI raises the question of how many athletes would have been spared unimaginable pain if the FBI had done its job. I am disappointed the Department of Justice will not be holding these individuals accountable for their actions.
Touring Hill’s Pet Nutrition in Topeka
Earlier this week, I toured Hill’s Pet Nutrition in Topeka and met with staff there regarding several issues impacting the pet food industry, including the federal and state regulations that must be met by pet food producers. I want to thank Carlos Gonzalez, Worldwide Director of Global Regulatory Affairs, Scott Mickelsen, Attending Veterinarian and Ingrid Stewart, Vice President and Division General Counsel, for hosting me during my tour of the facility and for sharing insight regarding the work they do. I also look forward to touring the Hill’s Pet Nutrition Tonganoxie facility as well when it opens in the near future.
Now Accepting 2022 Service Academy Applications
As students are preparing for the upcoming school year, I want to remind them of the opportunity to apply to a United States Service Academy. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, September 2, 2022. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board, which will take place on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas.
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
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Begins Fiscal Year 2023 with Tax Collections Surpassing Estimate by $127.6M
~~July Marks 24th Month In a Row that Kansas Tax Collections
Have Surpassed Estimates~~
TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas July tax receipts. In total, Kansas saw its total tax receipts for July exceed the estimate by $127.6 million with $586.2 million collected.
“Due to my administration’s record-setting economic development successes over the last three and a half years, July marks the 24th month in a row that Kansas tax receipts have surpassed expectations,” said Governor Kelly. “That represents more money our state can use to continue fully funding our schools, improving our roads, investing in law enforcement, and expanding health care.”
Individual income tax receipts were $300.5 million, or 15.6%, over the $260.0 million estimate. Corporate income tax collections were $36.6 million, or 66.4%, over the estimate. Higher-than-expected corporate tax receipts reflect continued optimism that corporate profits will remain stable in the new fiscal year.
A comparison of July’s receipts to those of July of 2021 is not meaningful because a statutory change during the 2022 Legislative Session had the effect of deferring the collection of certain sales and use tax receipts from July to August beginning this fiscal year.
Retail sales tax collections were $174.2 million, or 39.4%, over the estimate. Compensating use tax collections were $21.0 million, or 65.7%, over the estimate with $53.0 million collected. Actual receipts for the two tax types were less than July 2021 due to a change in the timing for remittances by large retailers resulting from the enactment of 2022 H.B. 2136.
The complete July 2022 Revenue Report can be found here.
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