Governor Laura Kelly Launches Public Service Announcements Addressing New COVID-19 Variant
~ Governor Kelly and Congresswoman Sharice Davids ask Kansans to get tested and vaccinated to stop the spread of COVID-19 ahead of Fourth of July Holiday~
TOPEKA – With the increased presence of the new Delta variant in the region, Governor Laura Kelly has launched public service announcements (PSAs) asking Kansans to stay vigilant as they travel and celebrate the July 4th holiday. Governor Kelly is reminding Kansans how they can get tested or schedule a vaccine appointment and is asking people to stay safe by continuing to physically distance and wear masks while around unvaccinated people.
“As we all begin to travel and gather with friends and family, it’s critically important to keep our communities and loved ones safe,” Governor Kelly said. “We all have a role to play in preventing the spread of COVID-19, especially as new strains emerge. We can all do our part to keep our communities safe by continuing to physically distance and wear masks until we are all vaccinated.”
The PSAs are part of a renewed effort to mobilize Kansans to get vaccinated and for unvaccinated Kansans to get tested to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves and loved ones. According to the CDC, the Delta variant is 60% more transmissible than the B. 117 variant which was previously the dominant strain. The new variant appears to be spreading most quickly in communities that have the lowest vaccination rates.
The Governor will appear with Congresswoman Sharice Davids in the PSAs in the Kansas City area.
“In the Third District and across Kansas, we’ve made progress towards getting more folks vaccinated—but the road to recovery is long, and we have to keep up the momentum,” Representative Davids said. “These vaccines work, and in the coming months, it will be critical to use every resource to get vaccines into arms so that we can put our kids back in school safely, get people back to work, and ensure the continued success of our economic recovery.”
The PSA campaign will continue through the Fourth of July weekend and reinforce ongoing efforts to get Kansans vaccinated against COVID-19.
For more information on where you can be tested for COVID-19 ahead of the holiday weekend, visit: KnowBeforeYouGoKS.com
To learn more about the vaccines and schedule a vaccination appointment, visit: kansasvaccine.gov/
Governor Laura Kelly Directs DCF to Continue Emergency Food Assistance for Kansans
~Emergency allotments began last spring due to COVID-19 pandemic~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today directed the Kansas Department for Children and Families to continue emergency food assistance (SNAP) benefits to current program households. The emergency allotment increases a household’s monthly benefit to the maximum allowed for the size of family.
“While Kansas continues its steady return to normal, the pandemic caused challenges for families – and many still need support,” Governor Kelly said. “Extending emergency SNAP benefits is part of our commitment to protecting Kansas children and families during the pandemic and beyond, and ensuring our kids have reliable access to quality, healthy foods.”
Under Governor Kelly’s direction, DCF Secretary Laura Howard issued a Declaration of Continuing Benefits due to COVID-19 — under K.S.A. 39-708c, et seq. — which directs the agency to continue taking all necessary actions to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the State of Kansas.
DCF estimates the extension will bring an additional $14.5 million in benefits per month to Kansas.
“I appreciate our federal partners for continuing this valuable support for vulnerable Kansans,” SecretaryHoward said. “These emergency benefits will help ensure Kansas families have access to healthy groceries as we continue to recover from this pandemic.”
The continuance of the emergency allotment is effective through December 31, 2021, or upon the termination of the federal declaration of a Public Health Emergency, whichever occurs sooner.
No application is necessary to receive the emergency food assistance funds. The distribution will continue to follow the standard alphabetical schedule.
Those that don’t currently receive food assistance but are interested in applying can visit the DCF website at www.dcf.ks.gov.
Keep your holiday celebrations safe from fire and firework-related injuries
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Office of the State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas would, again, like to remind Kansans of the importance of safety this Independence Day. Make sure your gatherings are safe for everyone by following public health guidance regarding COVID-19 and following safety recommendations for fireworks and outdoor grills.
In 2020, there were a total of 180 injuries caused by fireworks in Kansas. This is an increase from 2019. The person igniting the firework was most likely to be injured and hands were the most common body part to be injured. Over half of injuries occurred from fireworks happened on the 4th of July and most persons received burns. The majority of injuries occurred to those between the ages of 25 and 34; but there was also an increase in injuries to those between the ages of 45 and 54. The highest number of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks. Data was collected through voluntary reporting from Kansas hospitals and administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
“Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be handled with care,” said Cherie Sage, Director of Safe Kids Kansas, said. “Children should not light fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass. We encourage parents to let their little ones use glow sticks instead of sparklers and leave the rest to grownups.”
Grilling is another favorite part of many 4th of July gatherings. Make sure grills are used outdoors only, away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets away from the grill area and never leave your grill unattended. Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease fires.
“We want everyone to have a fun and safe celebration on Independence Day,” Doug Jorgensen, State Fire Marshal, said. “Taking a few simple precautions if you’re lighting off fireworks or grilling can ensure that your family and friends are safe and injury free this fourth of July. If possible, go to a public fireworks display, and let the trained professionals handle the risks.”
Other tips include:
Have adults supervise around grills and fireworks
Designate a child-free safety zone around grills and areas where fireworks are being ignited
Have a water supply near grills and fireworks
Have a first-aid kit on hand, and make sure its contents are updated and ready to use
Only ignite fireworks outdoors
Light only one firework at a time
Never try to re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
Never attempt to make your own fireworks
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place
Dispose of used fireworks carefully, as they may reignite
Bottle rockets and M80s are illegal in Kansas and extremely dangerous. The use or sale of these banned fireworks is considered a crime under Kansas law. It is also illegal in Kansas to shoot fireworks on or under any vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a fireworks stand or where fireworks are stored, and at gas stations or any place liquid gas – including propane – is stored.
Always refer to the local ordinances as to whether fireworks are allowed in your area as well as what types. Some cities or counties have restricted dates/times or types of fireworks that may be sold or discharged.
In addition, out of respect for veterans when it comes to the individual discharge of fireworks, please keep in mind the noise and stress (PTSD) your activities may cause near VA facilities.
To find further resources on how to protect you and your family, visit coronavirus.gov or the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website here.
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.
Assistance
If you are a Kansas resident and you or your family needs assistance with matters related to COVID-19, please click here.
Kansas Informational Resources
Please visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment here.
U.S. Small Business Administration Resources
For information regarding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), including second draw loans, please visit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website by clicking here.
For information regarding Economic Injury Disaster loans, please click here.
Veteran Resources
For information on veteran and VA related topics, resources and contact information, please click here.
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Phone Calls to Kansans
Andy Schlapp, Wichita State University, Wichita
Mark Gardiner, Gardiner Angus Ranch, Ashland
Craig Owens, City Manager, Lawrence
Robbie Mankien, KC Transit Authority, Kansas City
Kent Heermann, Regional Development Authority of East Central Kansas, Emporia
Pat Ottensmeyer, Kansas City Southern, KCK
Dr. Jeff and Connie Curtis, Hays Med, Hays
Dennis Hupe, Kansas Soybean Association, Perry
Marcia Mies, Manufacturing Development, Inc., Cheney
Dr. John Kovac, MD, Family Medicine Clinic, Junction City
Karyn Page, Kansas Global Trade Services, Inc., Wichita
Trent Sterneck, US District Court, KCK
Dr. Mark Brady, MD, AdventHealth, Shawnee
Rod Landrum, Four Chimney Farm, Parsons
Gordon Ramsey, Chief of Police, Wichita
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.
Hosting the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection Program Information Session in Wichita
Congressman Estes and I hosted an information session at Wichita State University on the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection (AMJP) Program to help aviation manufacturers learn more about the federal aid that is available to them.
This program was created by legislation I introduced with Congressman Estes to help protect the aviation manufacturer workforce as the entire aviation industry continues to weather the effects of the pandemic. This program provides funding to eligible businesses to pay up to half of their compensation costs for certain categories of employees, for up to six months.
The aviation manufacturing industry in Wichita plays a critical role in providing Kansans high-paying jobs and supporting commercial and general aviation across the country. I’m pleased this program is now available to support this industry and their invaluable workforce while recovering from the pandemic. I appreciated U.S. Department of Transportation AMJP Program Director Elliott Black for attending and answering questions from industry leaders. Thank you also to Tom Gentile, CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, Paul Feldman, Vice President of Government Affairs at General Aviation Manufacturers Association and Dr. Sheree Utash, WSU Tech President, for welcoming us to the world renowned National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT).
The AMJP application process is open and closes at 5:00pm ET on Tuesday, July 13th. I urge any eligible business interested in applying to visit the U.S. Department of Transportation’s webpage for more information here.
Additionally, anyone is free to submit questions, particularly about the application process, to [email protected]. An overview of the AMJP application process is available here.
Infrastructure Should Be a Bipartisan Effort
Improving our infrastructure is vital to our nation’s economy, safety and to our ability to compete in the global economy. We can pass an infrastructure package in a bipartisan way without raising taxes, without recklessly spending trillions of dollars and without eliminating the filibuster.
On Tuesday morning, I joined Squawk Box on CNBC to discuss the bipartisan infrastructure framework. Watch by clicking here or below.
For the People Act Was Designed to Fail, Underscored the Importance of the Filibuster
On Tuesday, Senate Democrats forced a vote on S.1, the partisan “For the People Act” on the U.S. Senate floor. This legislation is an unprecedented power grab that will undermine the sanctity of our elections. I’ve said it before: this is one of the most monstrous bills I’ve seen during my time in Congress, and it is an affront to the United States Constitution.
On Wednesday, following the vote, I spoke on the Senate floor regarding S.1 and its role in underscoring the importance of maintaining the filibuster, the 60 vote threshold needed to pass legislation.
The Democrats attempted an unprecedented power grab in the Senate that in my view clearly would have impacted the sanctity of our elections and violated the Constitution. The vote was designed to fail in order to pressure Democratic Senators into altering the rules of the Senate and render this place a majority-run institution.
This 60-vote rule is designed to moderate both sides of a question to something that is more acceptable to the American people than anything we might decide on our own, Republican or Democrat. America is better when we work together, and 60 votes requires us to do just that.
Securing a Commitment from Treasury for Utility Bill Relief following Winter Storm Uri
This week, the United States Treasury made clear that the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – the federal funding distributed to states, counties and municipalities in May – may be used for grants to local businesses and households to pay extraordinarily costly utility bills resulting from the natural gas supply shortages in February. After calling on the Treasury Secretary to work with me to ensure this was a permissible use of the funds in March during a Senate Banking hearing, the Treasury made this clear in updated guidance, and I confirmed this with the Secretary during an Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday. Small businesses, households and local government leaders across affected communities in Kansas and the central U.S. should now have confidence in using this funding to resolve exorbitant February utility bills.
Increasing Opportunities for Meat Processors
On Monday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant (MPIRG) program is now accepting applications to help small and midsized meat processors increase market opportunities. This program was created by my legislation, the Requiring Assistance to Meat Processers for Upgrading Plants (RAMP-UP) Act, and provides $55.2 million in grants for small and midsized meatpacking plants to make the necessary investments to become federally inspected. Currently, meatpacking facilities can only make sales across state lines if they are federally inspected.
Small meatpackers in Kansas play an important role in providing new markets for livestock producers and meeting a growing, nationwide demand for quality meat. I’m pleased to see the RAMP-UP Act become a reality, giving meat processing facilities the tools they need to increase their market opportunities while strengthening our food supply chain for consumers. I encourage meat and poultry processing facilities in Kansas and across the country that qualify to utilize this program to meet the standards necessary to sell their products across state lines, and I will continue to work to make sure our food supply chain is more resilient and provides greater market opportunities for producers.
MPIRG applications must be submitted electronically through www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, August 2, 2021. For more information about grant eligibility and program requirements, visit the MPIRG webpage, or contact [email protected].
Working to Strengthen Network Resiliency
On Tuesday, as a member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Media and Broadband, I participated in a hearing regarding network resiliency and broadband deployment. I questioned witnesses about the structure of current and future federal broadband initiatives and about the importance of the Universal Service Fund. There is a persistent “digital divide” in the United States, as an estimated 14.5 million Americans lack access to broadband, with the majority of these people being in rural and tribal areas. Congress has worked to close this gap, but additional support is being considered as part of infrastructure package negotiations. I asked witnesses about how they believe broadband funds included in infrastructure should be spent, ensuring that currently unserved areas are able to access quality broadband service efficiently, without wasting limited federal resources. I will continue to work with my Senate colleagues to ensure that more Kansans have access to the broadband service they need for telemedicine, distance learning and to connect to the online economy.
Improving Veterans’ Access to Health Care
Reviewing Legislation at a Senate VA Committee Hearing
On Wednesday, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs held a legislative hearing to consider and solicit views on 21 pieces of legislation. A number of these bills address critical topics such as patient safety in VA medical centers, VA’s Solid Start program, alleviating veteran homelessness and VA provider accountability. Among the bills considered were my Guaranteeing Healthcare Access to Personnel who Served Act, or GHAPS Act, that would work to increase certainty and consistency for veterans who get their care from VHA and my VA Supply Chain Resiliency Act that would address VA’s supply chain processes during emergency periods. In addition to representatives from VA, I appreciated hearing from three of our VSO partners on these bills, including the American Legion. I am grateful to have the support of the American Legion, and multiple other VSOs and stakeholders, for the GHAPS Act. I look forward to its continued progress through the legislative process. Click here to watch the full hearing.
Addressing Roadblocks to Mental Health Services
This week, I introduced a bill in the Senate that would address some recently identified issues with the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL). While Congress has made substantial improvements to the VCL in recent years, deficiencies remain that must be addressed to ensure every veteran receives the care they deserve when in crisis. This legislation directs the VA to implement key recommendations made by the Office of Inspector General including improved VCL staff training, an extended safety planning pilot program, as well as a requirement for VA to develop enhanced guidance based on recent research to appropriately assist veterans in crisis with substance use disorders who are at an increased risk for overdose. Additionally, this bill ensures a smooth transition for veterans to 9-8-8 as the national three-digit suicide crisis hotline. Making certain our veterans have the best crisis intervention and suicide prevention services remains a top priority of mine with my work on the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Developing Apprenticeships in Tech
This week, I introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act with Senator Heinrich, which would work to alleviate the skills gap that may slow the continued growth of the technology sector. Specifically, the legislation would provide industry intermediaries, like state tech associations, the ability to receive federal grants to develop apprenticeships within the technology sector. Apprenticeships give people hands-on learning opportunities to learn technical skills to benefit them in their careers, and aligning tech training with industry demands will help meet local workforce needs in Kansas and across the nation. I urge my Senate colleagues to support this legislation and will continue to work to fill the tech sector skills gap.
Evaluating FY2022 Budget Requests
Army, Navy and Marine Corps
On Tuesday and Thursday, I attended Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearings for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. Prior to the hearing, I had the chance to meet with Secretary Wormuth and General McConville to discuss their priorities and Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth’s unique history and contributions to our Army. During the hearing, I highlighted the importance of the Army’s Abrams program to make certain that Big Red One soldiers have the best possible equipment on the battlefield. I also discussed the research and development that is taking place in Kansas to develop digital design capabilities. Digital design will allow soldiers to utilize new technologies to maintain legacy weapons systems and design the next generation of Army programs.
During the Navy and Marine Corps hearing, I also had the opportunity to highlight the CH-53K program and its importance to the Marine Corps as Kansas contributes significantly to the research and manufacturing priorities of the Navy that provide key capabilities to the CH-53K.
FBI
On Wednesday, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science welcomed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray to discuss the funding priorities for the FBI and the critical issues facing our country. Among those issues was the rising prevalence of violent crime across the U.S., including in Kansas. I asked Director Wray how he planned to lead the FBI in addressing this surge in violent crime and if he would consider providing personnel and resources to cities and communities that are the worst affected. I also shared with him an update on violent crime in Wichita from Wichita Police Chief Gordon Ramsay to ensure Director Wray was aware of the situations we are facing in Kansas communities. We also discussed the rising threat of ransomware and cyberattacks to national security. I spoke to Director Wray about the methods the FBI plans to use to address the threat of ransomware and cyberattacks and what level of resources are needed so the bureau can adequately investigate and protect our country from these types of attacks.
As the lead Republican of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science that provides oversight to the FBI, I’m committed to working with Director Wray and my colleagues to make certain our nation’s law enforcement have the support and tools necessary to keep us safe.
Supporting Hotels’ COVID-19 Recovery
This week, I introduced the Restored, Equitable, Coronavirus Adjusted Lodging (RECAL) Act. This bipartisan legislation would support the hotel industry’s recovery from COVID-19 by freezing government per diem rates at pre-pandemic levels. The General Services Administration (GSA) establishes the per diem rates, which are the maximum allowances federal employees can be reimbursed for expenses incurred during official travel. Federal travelers are a significant part of the hotel industry’s customer base, and federal travel allowances should reflect a fair price for both travelers and hotels. Freezing these allowances so they are based off of lodging prices prior to the pandemic will provide much needed certainty to help the hotel industry’s recovery while also providing a fair price for their services. I will continue to seek out common sense policies that will further aid our nation’s economic recuperation.
Meeting with Taiwan Ambassador Bi-khim Hsiao
On Tuesday, I met with Taiwan’s Ambassador to the United States, Bi-khim Hsiao. We discussed the robust trade relationship between Taiwan and Kansas, the United States sharing COVID-19 vaccines with Taiwan and the threat China poses to Taiwan, its people and the world. I also had the opportunity to personally thank the ambassador for the 100,000 surgical masks Taiwan donated to Kansas in May of last year that helped protect our frontline medical professionals and those working in our vital food supply chains. I am grateful for the friendship between the United States and Taiwan, and I thank Ambassador Bi-khim Hsiao for our conversation.
Shaking Hands with David Boose
Retired EMT, firefighter and Vietnam veteran David Boose of Lecompton called into my office recently and asked me to stop by his home so he could shake my hand. Happy to report we got it accomplished this weekend!
Thank you for your lifetime of service, David. It was great to meet you.
Bolstering Kansas’ Aviation and Transportation Initiatives
Discussing the Supersonic Transportation Corridor with FAA Administrator Steve Dickson
This week, I met with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Steve Dickson to discuss the recently established Kansas Supersonic Transportation Corridor, an agreement finalized between the Kansas Department of Transportation and the FAA. As the first and only such commercial supersonic flight test route in the nation’s interior, we look forward to the partnerships and research that will stem from the corridor. Additionally, we discussed the 737 MAX and its movement forward after returning to service last November.
I also invited Steve Dickson to Kansas to see the strengths of our aviation state firsthand, and I look forward to continuing our working partnership.
Meeting with Robbie Makinen and Kansas City Area Transportation Authority
It was great to see Robbie Makinen, Terri Barr and Bryce Shields on Wednesday to discuss RideKC Transit services and Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s (KCATA) ongoing initiatives to connect people to jobs, education, health care and housing. Robbie, Terri and Bryce also shared RideKC’s accomplishment of implementing a Zero Fare transit program, which has increased ridership and improved operator safety by eliminating 90 percent of driver-involved disturbances.
I was also pleased to announce a $3.3 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant to continue transitioning its fleet to zero-emission buses and expand its electric charging infrastructure this week. It was great to discuss this grant in person and hear more about the extension during our meeting. The need to improve service has long been identified as critical to creating and sustaining a robust transportation system in Kansas City, and I am glad that our community leaders have used innovative methods for addressing this need.
Speaking with the Kansas Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Conference
On Wednesday, I was pleased to speak with a group of students participating in the Kansas Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Conference, where we discussed a variety of issues important to Kansans and our nation. Our conversation centered around the negative impact changes to the inheritance tax and the step-up in basis would have on the ability of family farms and businesses to pass on their operations from one generation to the next, the importance of growing our nation’s export markets for Kansas commodities in places such as Cuba to avoid an overreliance on trade with China, and ways to better support our military families who sacrificed so much for our county. I appreciate hearing from students across Kansas and look forward to this group’s return to in-person trips to Washington, D.C.
Touring Kraft Telerobotics in Kansas City
This week, I visited Kraft Telerobotics in Kansas City. Founded in 1982, Kraft is a leading manufacturer of manipulator systems and remotely operated vehicles for use in hazardous environments. Their manipulator arms are used to complete difficult subsea tasks in support of offshore oil exploration, deep water drilling and underwater construction.
On land, their systems are used to demolish nuclear power plants, repair power lines as well as support the maintenance of the Space Station and other NASA programs. I appreciated learning more about Kraft’s impressive operations, and thank Owner Brett Kraft for his time.
Sons of American Legion Biscuit and Gravy Breakfast
I had a great breakfast on Saturday morning at the Sons of American Legion Biscuit and Gravy Breakfast at Pearce-Keller Post No. 17 The American Legion! Seeing so many familiar faces was a great way to start the weekend. I enjoyed catching up with those in attendance, including National Executive Committeeman of the Kansas Department of the American Legion Dan Wiley of Leavenworth.
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
State officials are seeking feedback from Kansans to help guide future housing development efforts. The initiative, part of the state’s first comprehensive housing needs assessment in nearly 30 years, aims to review current housing opportunities, identify strategic goals, and develop recommendations to guide future housing development.
We’ve wrapped up our statewide listening tour, and now it’s time to share your feedback in our statewide survey. Hurry! Our survey closes Wednesday, June 30.
All respondents who provide their email address will be entered in a drawing for a $100 VISA gift card!
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present, the County Counselor was present by telephone for a portion of the meeting.
Also present were the following: (some were present for a portion of the meeting and some were present for the entire meeting), Jason Silvers with the Fort Scott Tribune, Susan Bancroft, Mr. & Mrs. Clint Walker, Michael Hoyt, Michael and Katrina Braim, Mark McCoy, Anne Dare, and Rob Herrington with BEDCO.
Jim made a motion to approve the minutes from the last meeting, Clifton seconded and all approved.
Representatives from KDOT Wayne Goodmenstein, Troy Howard, Kristy Kelly and one other met with the Commissioners to discuss a KDOT road closing at the south intersection of 180th & K7. Jim Harris said he would like more money from KDOT for bridges, Mr. Goodmenstein said more money would come from Senators and Representatives, but discussed the Federal Fund Exchange program and said that money only has to be used on transportation related issues. Susan Bancroft said the cost share program is competitive and asked what are the main things we need to focus on when applying; Wayne said that kicking in more money helps when scoring the project. They are going to be improving K7 for safety by adding shoulders, rehabilitating the roadway and adding super elevation on the curves. This project is in the design stages now. KDOT asked permission to close the south intersection of 180th & K7, he said a cul-de-sac could be used for property owners to access property. Jim Harris said if people can get to their property with access, he was ok to close the intersection (with input from the property owners there). KDOT will do the County Road Closure paperwork. KDOT is going to look at the intersection of 39 & K7 for a possible redesign. Mark McCoy said he was on the Highway 69 committee and thanked KDOT for the work on 69 Highway.
Eric Bailey presented permits to the Commissioners; he said the permit for Zimmerman had been completed. Lynne made a motion to approve a culvert installation permit for Mr. Shetler at 2025 195th, Jim seconded and all approved. Lynne made a motion to approve a permit from Craw Kan for their yearly permit (Eric said plans, a check and insurance information had been submitted by Craw Kan), Jim seconded and all approved.
Eric discussed a windstorm that occurred on June 11th; he said multiple signs, trees and powerlines were down and said there was heavy rain. He said he was working with Will Wallis to see if there would be a disaster declaration. Eric said there is a lot of cleanup to be done. Eric said his crew did a good job dealing with the storm, Lynne complimented Road & Bridge for the work they did.
Eric said the asphalt was done in the Hiattville area and said they are headed to 250th today to begin work there.
Eric said they now have possession of the F750 they recently purchased.
The crusher has a broken belt that they are fixing.
Eric said he is waiting to hear from KDHE regarding the soybeans.
Eric said the overburden at the quarry is being moved to do a blast; Jim briefly discussed the County having to pay a flat fee for what is removed from the blast.
Eric said Jayhawk Wind is doing culvert work and working on turning radiuses. He said they are seeing road failure, but said Jayhawk is fixing this with a cement mix. A location at Calvary between 30-40th has been reworked and they restabilized it. They are putting water down for dust control and have contacted the County to use the County dust control on a few roads.
The Commissioners received a request to trim trees on Maple Road due to a site issue there; Eric said the trees are on the property owners’ side and said he would visit with the property owners there.
Kendell Mason presented the 2021 budget information sheets to the Commissioners; the estimated assessed valuation is 115,441,379 compared to 110,449,986 in June of 2020.
Kendell presented the 2020 annual summaries to the Commissioners for approval; the Commissioners asked Susan Bancroft to review these prior to their approval.
Jes Pfannenstiel with KWORCC met with the Commissioners; he said the experience modification factor should go down since 2017 will drop off. He said KWORCC is County owned and operated by elected Commissioners and Clerks. He said 77 Counties in Kansas are members of KWORCC. They do quarterly visits to their insured to look for any violations and if any notify them so they can be corrected to avoid accidents. They offer training to their insured. Bourbon County is a 20-year member with KWORCC. KWORCC will provide a bid for the work comp insurance.
The Commissioners had a discussion regarding the Bourbon County Attorney Jackie Spradling; Justin was on the telephone and said the process will handle the situation and said at that time the Republican party will step in and nominate a new County Attorney. Michael Braim said he thought at the next Republican meeting the Republican party would come up with a vote of no confidence for the County Attorney. Jim asked Justin if he recommended that the Commissioners did not comment on this matter; Justin said steps are happening and it will resolve itself shortly and said we had no control over the timeline for the Kansas Supreme Court, but said if someone did a recall, he felt the Kansas Supreme Court would resolve this before a petition would. Mark McCoy, the Chairman of the Republican Party said they would be having a regularly scheduled meeting on June 24th and said if the topic comes up, they will address it. If the County Attorney were to leave her position prior to the term ending, the Republican Party would make a recommendation on her replacement to the Governor and the Governor would appoint the next County Attorney. The County Attorney is not required to be resident of the County they are serving in. Mark McCoy said the County Attorney’s wages are $50,133/year and said it might be difficult to get someone to commit to only this one position. Mark questioned if there was a possibility of the position not being an elected position in the future. Michael Braim said people want Jacqie Spradling gone and said he had hoped the County Counselor would explore all options the County has, he said she was a loose cannon with a long history of misconduct. Michael Braim asked if anyone had spoken to Jacqie; the Commissioners hadn’t. Michael said she was hiding and said she had an obligation to the County to let us know what is going on. He asked if lawsuits come as a result of her where would the money come from to pay the lawsuits; Justin said it would come out of the Attorney’s fund and if need be, the General fund and said he hadn’t checked with the insurance company to see if they would cover such a thing. Katrina Braim said that every case she has handled is open for appeals. Mr. Braim discussed Beatrice-6 and said it cost the County there $28 million and said the County had to increase property taxes to pay this. Justin said there were two recommendations made by the panel to the Supreme Court: indefinite suspension or disbarment. Michael said a vote of no confidence will protect the County from liability at some point; Justin said a vote of no confidence will not change the liability to the County. Jim said he had confidence in what the Supreme Court is doing. Mr. Braim said she lied, hid and deceived the Republican Party when they appointed her. Clifton said he was playing devils advocate and said the public was complaining about misconduct, and said she possibly abused the system and didn’t give people a fair trial; he asked what would make them any better if we didn’t let the system work, he said doesn’t she deserve a fair trial. Clifton said he wasn’t willing to lower himself before a judge convicts her. Lynne said they weren’t the judge, jury or executioner on this and said the Supreme Court will make this determination. Jim told Mr. Braim that he did an excellent job on his research, but said he wasn’t doing anything based on his research. Mr. Braim said he would do a recall petition and said he thought the Commissioners were letting us down; he said they could encourage a resignation. Katrina Braim said this wasn’t the first time the County had misconduct by a prosecutor and felt it was important to issue a vote of no confidence. Mark McCoy discussed the vetting process if a new County Attorney is appointed; he said the Republican Party would accept resumes and applications, ask that a background investigation be done and said he would recommend that the Party schedule the following meeting in two weeks to vote for the person, and said they would present their choice to the Governor for approval.
The Commissioners discussed a social media fact checker for the County; Lynne said Shane had heard comments on how much this was going to cost to have, Lynne said people are already in place to do this. He said there had been a post with inaccuracy about Jacqie Spradling; Justin said fact checking will provide additional information so that everyone can have their own opinions. Jim said he thought it was important to have the facts out there, but said he wasn’t sure people would believe us. Lynne said recently the windfarm had spilled gravel on the road, but said a picture or clarification would have helped. Clifton said he was fine if they wanted to put out answers to some of the things out there and said we needed to do a better job of getting information out there. Lynne said that Shane had stepped up to do the fact checking. Clifton asked who would fact check the fact checker. Clifton made a motion to answer some of the stuff out there with a fact checker which would be reviewed by a Commissioner (it would depend on the subject as to which Commissioner would review it), Jim seconded and all approved.
Lynne made a motion to amend the agenda to move the County Counselors scheduled time to an earlier time, Jim seconded and all approved. Justin asked for a motion to formulate a lease agreement for the City to possibly move into unused County space at the County building. Lynne said the County is in the process of moving dispatch into the Courthouse. Clifton made a motion to allow the County Counselor to move forward with a lease agreement (Justin said it would possibly be for a 10-year term) for the City to move into the Courthouse, Jim seconded and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 5-minute executive session for KSA 75-4319(b) (1) to discuss personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel to protect their privacy, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in the Commission room at 11:16, Jim seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Justin Meeks by phone and Susan Bancroft). At 11:16, Clifton made a motion to resume the meeting and said they may have another session later in the meeting, Jim seconded and all approved.
Emergency Manager William Wallis met with the Commissioners; he said they have sent a list of the recent storm damage to the State to see if there is anything the State will do for us. Will presented a Promulgation and said it was the final document to the State for the Bourbon County Emergency Operations Plan for 5 years; Lynne made a motion to accept the Promulgation of the Emergency Operation Plan, Jim seconded and all approved and Lynne signed the Promulgation.
William Wallis, with assistance from the Clerk’s office, said he was submitting to the FEMA for final approval for the County to get $29,612 from COVID expenses.
Susan Bancroft met with the Commissioners; she said Kansas Road Trip would be coming through Bourbon County next year, she hoped the City, County, Chamber and BEDCO would partner and each contribute $2,000 towards the Kansas Road Trip $8,000 budget. The County could donate their portion to BEDCO and BEDCO could be the passthrough for this. This will be discussed again next week. Susan said she had done the drawdown for the ARPA funding; but said she didn’t have a defined dollar amount of this yet. She said right now it has limited use and said it is very specific in what it could be used for. Susan said the ARPA money would be deposited in a separate fund and said she would do the quarterly reporting and said ARPA would be administered by the County.
The Commissioners plan to have a Bourbon County budget townhall meeting on June 28th, (tentatively at the Empress Event Center) Susan will set this up.
Susan said she had been working with Eric Bailey on the Road & Bridge budgets; she said the Landfill is a concern and said she didn’t think they would be able to meet all of the obligations there and said there wasn’t enough traffic there to cover all of our costs.
Public Comment: Michael Hoyt said he had received at least a dozen letters of interest in the law enforcement & fire protection citizens advisory board (he said they could also include judiciary in this), and said anyone with an interest in this could send a letter to him at POB 1009, Fort Scott. He said he had hoped that next month he would have the framework of what they would like to take a look at. He briefly discussed the Brady Act.
Commissioner Comment: Jim said he wanted the Commissioners to move forward with internet throughout the County. Jim said he would like to see a written proposal to get this done and said they needed to direct Shane to submit an estimate to move forward. The Commissioners asked that the internet access proposal be scheduled on the agenda on June 29th.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda for a 15-minute executive session, Jim seconded and all approved. Clifton made a motion to have a 15-minute executive session for KSA 75-4319(b) (6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in the Commission room at 11:55, Jim seconded and all approved, (the session included the Commissioners, Susan Bancroft and Rob Herrington). Clifton made a motion to resume the normal session at 11:55, with action, Jim seconded and all approved. Clifton made a motion to proceed with the donation of the Mercy building and the property to the County, Jim seconded and all approved, motion carried. Clifton said as a Commission they had voted to take the donation of the property and with a great deal of help from Rob Herrington he had been in talk with 5 entities for that building. Clifton said items couldn’t be disclosed but he expected some good things to talk about in the future. He said this includes a monetary donation as well. Clifton said we would have an emergency room here, and said in a perfect world we would also have a hospital, but said at the very least we would have an ER. Clifton said the original monetary donation was $1 million, then it was $450,000 8 months ago and now it is $600,000. Clifton said he would ask that all taxing authorities get involved in what they can make happen. Rob said this would be a great asset for the County to have and said projects at this time are not for public knowledge, but said he believed there would be a user for the building by the end of the year. Rob said as soon as the hospital signs over ownership the County would take over the maintenance there. Rob said those who have leases there now will continue until the end of the lease. Clifton said the building is collecting rent and said he didn’t think the County should be landlords and said there were a few restrictions regarding selling the building.
At 12:11, Clifton made a motion to adjourn, Jim seconded and all approved.
Kendell Mason – Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
Elected Officials Comment
County Counselor Comment
Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
Public Comment
Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session:
KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
KSA 75-4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
KSA 75-4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency
KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property
KSA 75-4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.
Chairman Mark McCoy speaks to the Bourbon County Republicans on June 24, at the Empress Event Center.
The Bourbon County Republicans met June 24 for their regularly scheduled meeting, but a meeting to select the new county attorney, was set up for next week.
Jacquie Spradling, who resigned recently as the county attorney, will be replaced on July 1, said Chairman Mark McCoy.
“We will be selecting a new county attorney on July 1 at 6 p.m. at the Empress (Event Center, 7 N. Main),” McCoy said. “We went over the rules for the upcoming meeting. There were a number of questions asked. I explained how we would operate.”
At the next meeting, there will be a time of public comment, he said. “Each person can have up to three minutes to speak for or against one of the candidates.”
After the public has an opportunity to speak, then the meeting will be a closed meeting for the party executive board and the committee people.
The candidates will have ten minutes to speak and the Bourbon County elected officials will also have time to speak for or against a candidate.
The only people involved in the decision of picking the candidate will be committeemen and women and party chairs, McCoy said.
Three candidates have applied so far, he said.
Jeffrey Williams, Baxter Springs; Steven Ellis, Spring Hill; and Tiana McElroy, Coffeyville are the three so far, with applications still being accepted until June 28, McCoy said.
Richard Hilderbrand, Kansas State Senator for the 13th District, gives a legislative update to the Bourbon County Republicans on June 24. Submitted photo by Vickie Shead.
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.
Active Advisories
Warning
Herington Reservoir (New City Lake), Dickinson County (new)
Marion Reservoir, Marion County
Keith Sebelius Reservoir, Norton County
Webster Reservoir, Rooks County
Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County
Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte County
Watch
Herington City Lake (Old Lake), Dickinson County (new)
Milford Lake Zone C, Geary County
South Lake, Johnson County
Big Hill Lake, Labette County
Marion County Lake, Marion County (downgraded 6/24)
Melvern Outlet Pond, Osage County (downgraded 6/24)
Atwood Township Lake, Rawlins County (new)
When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
Water contact should be avoided.
Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.
A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.
During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
Signage will be posted at all public access locations.
Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.
KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.
If you observe a scum, a paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments, or the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture food safety and lodging program will host an online public forum on Monday, July 12, at 3:00 p.m. to share proposed updates to the Kansas Food Code.
The Kansas Food Code establishes food safety regulations that govern food establishments. Amendments to the Kansas Food Code will ultimately require the formal regulation adoption process, but KDA is providing this opportunity for interested citizens to hear a summary of the proposed updates and to provide feedback prior to the start of the formal process. The proposed changes to the Kansas Food Code include amendments to regulations that directly impact food safety as well as some clarification of language and updates to some food safety parameters. Some of the changes are proposed in order to reflect changes to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s model food code, including adoption of the FDA model food code requirement to employ a certified food protection manager.
Interested parties can preview the proposed updates on the KDA website ahead of the forum. To participate in the forum, individuals will need to register so they can receive the Zoom link. At registration, participants can indicate whether they want to provide oral or written comments regarding the proposed updates. Oral comments will be limited to 2 minutes per commenter and will be heard at the end of the public forum. Written comments can be shared on the webinar registration form or via a form on the KDA website.
The Fort Scott City Commission will meet on Tuesday, June 29th, 2021 at 6:00 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 2022 budget. This meeting is open to the public, but no action will be taken.
The work session will also be available on the City’s YouTube channel.
