The Airport Advisory Board will meet on Wednesday, June 23rd, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. at the City Commission meeting room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. This meeting is open to the public.
This meeting will be made available via the City’s you tube channel at City of Fort Scott.
The Lake Fort Scott Advisory Board will meet on Saturday, June 19th, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. at the City Hall Commission meeting room at 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. This meeting is open to the public.
The meeting will be available on the City’s YouTube channel.
The Tourism Advisory Board will meet on Thursday, June 17th, 2021 at 3:30 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main. This meeting is open to the public.
The Tourism meeting will be available on the City’s YouTube channel.
USDA Launches Grant Program to Help Expand Regional Economies and Create High-Wage Jobs in Distressed Rural Communities
WASHINGTON, June 15, 2021 – United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Rural Business-Cooperative Service Administrator Karama Neal today unveiled a new grant program to help rural communities create good-paying jobs and support new business opportunities in high-growth fields.
Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) is intended to help rural communities identify and maximize local assets and connect to networks and industry clusters within their region. The new grant encourages a regional, innovation-driven approach to economic development.
“USDA is innovating the way we do business,” Neal said. “The RISE program ensures that critical funding supports long-term and sustainable economic growth in the rural communities and regions that need it most.”
RISE provides grants of up to $2 million to consortiums of local governments, investors, industry, institutions of higher education, and other public and private entities in rural areas. The funds may be used to form job accelerator partnerships and create high-wage jobs, start or expand businesses, and support economic growth in the rural areas of their region.
Funding may also be used to establish and operate innovation centers and partnerships, such as integrating rural businesses into new supply chains, providing workforce training and identifying community assets.
To help ensure long-term and sustainable community and economic development, award recipients must support projects for at least four years.
Applicants are encouraged to contact their nearest USDA Rural Development State Office ahead of the application deadline for more information about the program or the application process.
Starting June 16, 2021, applications will be accepted electronically at Grants.gov. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Aug. 2, 2021. Information about the application process is available in a notice in the Federal Register. For additional information about the program, see the final rule on page 31585 of the June 15 Federal Register.
USDA is hosting a webinar on Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time to help stakeholders and potential applicants learn more about this funding opportunity. To register, please visit: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9046642451030677262.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.
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.
Urging A Full Reopening of the Eisenhower Museum
This week, I visited the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home in Abilene to continue advocating for a for full reopening of the facility. Currently, it is open for limited hours and days, and ticketing is capped. I have written the leader of the National Archives, which oversees presidential libraries, to follow the science and local conditions to enable the library and museum to accommodate visitors beyond the 25 percent capacity limit. I appreciated the opportunity to hear firsthand from the library’s director, Dawn Hammatt, on plans for a full reopening. I expressed my concern that the guidelines published on January 24 are now out of date as our state and country ease restrictions. Ike is an important economic driver for Abilene and our state, and as conditions have significantly changed in the last few months, so should our policies. I will continue to press for a rapid and safe reopening.
Thank you to Director Dawn Hammatt, Dickinson County Economic Development Executive Director Chuck Scott, Mayor Brandon Rein and Eisenhower Foundation Executive Director Meredith Sleichter for your time.
Read more about my efforts to fully reopen the museum in the Salina Journal.
Modernizing College Athletics
This week, I participated in a Senate Commerce Committee hearing on collegiate athletics and name, image and likeness (NIL) rights for amateur athletes. Over the years, college athletics have grown into an increasingly profitable, billion dollar industry, however the rules surrounding athlete compensation have not been modernized. In an attempt to fix this issue, 19 states have passed legislation on athlete compensation, which could lead to a confusing system of inconsistent state laws that would be cumbersome for schools and athletes to navigate.
Earlier this year I introduced the Amateur Athlete Protection and Compensation Act. My legislation would create a national standard of guidelines to make certain student athletes can benefit from the use of their name, image and likeness without hurting their eligibility to compete as a student athlete while at the same time protecting the existing model of college athletics that has afforded so many young athletes an opportunity to pursue an education. Athletics teach young men and women many valuable skills that serve them throughout their life, and Kansas has an unparalleled history of college athletics that includes several premier programs attracting student athletes from all over the nation and the world. I will continue to work with my Congressional colleagues to ensure NIL legislation strikes the appropriate balance of empowering amateur athletes while maintaining the integrity of college sports that we all know and love.
Protecting Access to Rural Telehealth
I introduced the Protecting Rural Telehealth Access Act with Senators Joe Manchin, Joni Ernst and Jeanne Shaheen to make current telehealth flexibilities permanent. Our bipartisan legislation would ensure rural and underserved community health care providers are able to continue offering telehealth services after the public health emergency ends. With a focus on initiatives that benefit rural providers and patients, this legislation would allow payment parity for audio-only health services for clinically appropriate appointments, permanently waive the geographic restriction in order for patients to be treated from their homes, allow rural health clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers to serve as distance sites for telehealth services and allows Critical Access Hospitals to directly bill for telehealth services. The COVID-19 pandemic reiterated the effective and efficient access to care telehealth provides to patients, especially those in rural communities. Even after the pandemic ends, our health care system should bolster telehealth services as a reliable option to serve patients and help expand health care options and availability in rural America.
Honoring Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer
On Memorial Day, I was honored to be at the Nemaha County Veterans Memorial to recognize Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer, a World War II airman who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country when his plane went down off the coast of Papua New Guinea in 1943.
I encourage you to watch the video below and learn more about our 16-year effort to recover a WWII airman’s ring from the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.
Evaluating FY2022 Budget Requests
International Affairs
On Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared before a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee to discuss the proposed International Affairs FY2022 budget. I asked him about our embassies and consulates overseas being appropriately staffed to process visa requests quickly for individuals who seek to come to our state temporarily to work in agriculture and other key industries. As State Department personnel are vaccinated, it is important they return safely to their desks to handle these requests. I also sought and received a commitment that the State Department will continue to assist in pursuing justice for Michael Sharp, a native Kansan murdered in the Democratic Republic of Congo working for the United Nations, and I pressed Secretary Blinken to hold Iran accountable for its refusal to uphold its international obligations and provide answers regarding its nuclear program at previously undeclared sites. The State Department and other agencies are vital for promoting peace and prosperity on behalf of Americans, and I will work with my colleagues in the coming months to ensure this budget serves American interests.
Department of Justice
On Wednesday, I participated in a hearing of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science to discuss and review the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) FY2022 budget request. The committee welcomed Attorney General Merrick Garland to discuss critical issues facing our country. Among those issues were the impact of President Biden’s executive order prohibiting DOJ from contracting with private detention facilities and the impact it is having on the U.S. Marshal Service’s (USMS) ability to effectively complete their mission. Without the use of private facilities, many who are awaiting trial will have to be housed hundreds of miles away, making it harder on both the USMS to transport the individual to and from trial as well as the individual and their families who must now travel much further to see or speak to their loved ones.
We also discussed the insufficiency of the DOJ’s budget request with respect to our federal law enforcement agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Agency. Our federal law enforcement agencies have seen dramatic declines in personnel over the last several years, and this year’s budget request does nothing to remedy this. As the lead Republican of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I’m committed to working with Attorney General Garland and my colleagues to make certain our nation’s law enforcement have the support and tools necessary to keep our communities safe.
Air and Space Force
Also on Wednesday, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing on the Air Force and Space Force budgets for FY2022. Acting Secretary of the Air Force John Roth, Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Charles Brown and Chief of Space Operations General John Raymond testified about their priorities for the Air Force and the Space Force, focusing on developing cutting-edge technologies to modernize our Air Force and maintain a winning edge in space. Several of these technologies have a strong research or manufacturing presence in Kansas, from hypersonics, to Agility Prime, to new airframes like the B-21 Raider and the F-35 Lightning. Additionally the Air Force is prioritizing procurement of the KC-46 tanker, which is largely built in Kansas and is being flown out of McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita.
I also had the opportunity to ask about programs that are important to Kansas, like the Air Force’s Skyborg program. Skyborg will be an unmanned aircraft that will serve as a wingman for fighter aircraft and take on risky aspects of combat missions. Wichita State University, in a partnership with Spirit AeroSystems, is one of the few organizations the Air Force selected to create prototype components, and I am looking forward to seeing the talent Kansas has to contribute to our national security.
Food and Drug Administration
On Thursday, the Acting Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Dr. Janet Woodcock testified before the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development and FDA Appropriations regarding the FDA’s FY2022 budget request. During the hearing, I expressed my concerns about the extended amount of time it takes to get animal feed ingredients approved by FDA for livestock feed, including new feed ingredients that may help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock. Dr. Woodcock also committed to working to modernize FDA standards of identity, which regulate certain food labels. The amount of time it currently takes for FDA to update standards of identity hinders research and development of more nutritious and healthier foods. I also asked Dr. Woodcock about direct-to-consumer COVID-19 test kits, and ensuring FDA fairly considers consideration of both nasal swab and saliva-based COVID-19 tests. I look forward to working with Dr. Woodcock to ensure our country continues to have the safest and most effective food and drugs available.
Discussing VA’s Longstanding Infrastructure Problems
On Wednesday, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing to discuss the VA’s longstanding and systemic infrastructure problems. More than 7.2 million veterans received care in the VA’s health care system last year at aging hospitals, clinics and health care facilities. Currently, the age and condition of VA facilities demand that we do better.
During the hearing, I raised questions about the White House’s fact sheet aimed at addressing the immediate needs of VA health care facilities, creating jobs for veterans and expanding opportunities for small veteran-owned businesses. I shared my concerns about how this plan’s $18 billion proposal for VA will be used and how it aligns with the department’s FY2022 budget request for construction of $2.2 billion. I understand the VA is “in the process” of identifying projects and facilities, but I have unanswered questions regarding how much they cost and how funding will be prioritized.
The administration is requesting money now with the promise to provide a plan for where and how to spend it later, an entirely backward approach. My position regarding the importance of VA health care is clear and on the record. I am wholeheartedly committed to the maintenance, continued development and improvement of a VA health care system.
Hosting a Listening Tour Stop in Dickinson County
It was great to see more faces in Dickinson County on Friday to listen to the thoughts of Abilene community members during my Listening Tour stop. We talked about voter integrity, border security, inflation and the need for workers as the economy rebounds from the pandemic. We also discussed my work on the Senate VA Committee and my work to bolster veterans mental health, including the John Scott Hannon Act.
Thank you to Mr. K’s Farmhouse Restaurant for hosting our discussion, Rep. John Barker, Mayor Brandon Rein (pictured below) and Retired Lt. Gen. Perry L. Wiggins for stopping by, and to everyone who shared their concerns with me.
Facilitating a Discussion Regarding Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer Extension Proposal
This week, I brought Amtrak CEO Bill Flynn and Amtrak President Stephen Gardner, and local leaders – Kansas Senator Carolyn McGinn, Sedgwick County Commissioner Pete Meitzner and Newton City Manager Kelly McElroy – together for a conversation regarding the proposed extension of the Heartland Flyer passenger service into Kansas. The current proposal would extend the Heartland Flyer route from Oklahoma City into both Wichita and Newton, which would then connect passengers to the current Southwest Chief passenger route. Conversations surrounding the Heartland Flyer are ongoing, and I look forward to continuing to discuss Amtrak’s plans and priorities moving forward.
Thank you to Carolyn McGinn, Pete Meitzner and Kelly McElroy for being a part of this discussion.
Remembering Sgt. Wesley Kubie
This week, three Kansas Air National Guardsmen were in a training accident, resulting in two injured airmen, and the tragic death of Staff Sgt. Wesley Kubie. Robba and I are extending our heartfelt condolences to his wife, three children and the entire Kansas National Guard. We are praying for the recovery of the two injured airmen.
Wesley will lie in state on Wednesday, June 16, at 2 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 17, at 10 a.m. He will be buried with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home: 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka. To learn more about Wes’ life, click here.
Requiring Greater Transparency from Big Tech Platforms
Last week, I introduced the Filter Bubble Transparency Act with Senators Thune, Blackburn, Blumenthal, Warner and Schatz. “Filter bubble” is a term referring to a state of intellectual isolation that can result from the personalized search results and information that is provided to consumers by the algorithms of internet service companies.
This legislation would require large-scale internet platforms to provide greater transparency to consumers and allow users to view content that has not been curated as a result of a secret algorithm. Platforms would be required to clearly notify its users that their platform creates a filter bubble that uses algorithms and allow them to view information without the filter bubble. In an increasingly complex tech economy, consumers want to know what personal information about them is being collected and how it is being processed and repurposed. This legislation increases consumer awareness of how algorithms are manipulating what they view online and allows them to decide what they see on their screens by providing increased user control of algorithms used by Big Tech. I encourage my Senate colleagues to support this legislation and will continue to pursue providing appropriate controls and protections to consumers without disproportionately harming innovation.
Exposing Keystone XL Job Loss
This week, I joined 10 of my Senate colleagues in introducing the Defending Keystone Jobs Act, legislation which would require the Department of Labor (DOL) to submit a report to Congress on the number of jobs lost as a direct or indirect result of the Biden administration’s move to cancel construction of the Keystone XL pipeline. This project was expected to provide approximately 11,000 direct high-paying jobs and up to 60,000 indirect and direct jobs, generate tax revenue, increase renewable-energy demand, reduce emissions and strengthen North American energy independence.
Canceling the Keystone XL Pipeline has cost our country thousands of good-paying jobs and made us more dependent on foreign countries to supply our domestic energy needs. The Biden administration must reverse this policy, especially in light of its decision to waive sanctions on Russia’s Nord Stream 2 pipeline, and reprioritize the needs of American workers and energy consumers. I will continue to support the thousands of Americans who work in the energy sector and vehemently oppose policies that diminish U.S. energy independence.
Restoring Byron Walker Wildlife Area
Big news for waterfowl hunters and outdoor enthusiasts: Ducks Unlimited and Phillips 66’s efforts to support and restore Byron Walker Wildlife Area includes a North American Wetlands Conservation Act Grants Program (NAWCA) grant of $1 million and increased wetland habitat to benefit Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism and south central Kansas. Click here to learn more about this restoration project.
Information for Students
High School Juniors: Become a Senate Page
Senate Pages play an important role in day-to-day operations of the United States Senate. High school students who are selected for and participate in the Senate Page Program are afforded a unique opportunity to work in the Senate and learn about Congress and the legislative process while maintaining their regular coursework. The Senate Page Program is administered by the Sergeant-at-Arms, the Secretary of the Senate and the party secretaries.
After the program’s temporary halt due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, I am excited to announce that the Senate Page Program will restart this September. Summer Page eligibility is limited to students who have completed their sophomore year of high school and who will be 16 or 17 years old on or before the date of appointment. More information on the program, eligibility and application can be found here. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Now Accepting Fall 2021 Internship Applications
An internship in my office provides a unique opportunity for students to work closely with my staff on behalf of Kansans, and applications for the Fall 2021 Intern Session are now available. Interns witness the workings of Congress from a unique perspective, and develop knowledge and professional skills that will serve them in their future career pursuits. My office is accepting applications for the Fall Session through June 24. Please visit my website to hear from past interns, find the application link and learn more about this opportunity by clicking here.
Recognizing Women Veterans Day
On Saturday, Women Veterans Day and the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, we celebrated the contributions of women in the military. To all women veterans, thank you for your service and your sacrifice.
I have been working to honor two distinct groups of women that have served our country: the Hello Girls of World War I and the women who served in the Six Triple Eight Central Postal Director Battalion during World War II.
U.S. Army Celebrates 246 Years
Today marks the 246th birthday of the U.S. Army. To those who have answered the call to defend and protect our nation, I say thank you.
Happy Flag Day
For over 200 years, the American flag has been an enduring symbol of freedom. On Flag Day, we honor those who have sacrificed defending the stars and stripes, and the unity and hope it represents.
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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL
CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
JUNE 15, 2021
6:00 P.M.
Call to Order
Roll Call:
K. Allen P. Allen R. Nichols L. Watts J. Jones
II. Flag Salute:
Invocation: Led by: (To be Announced)
Approval of Agenda:
Proclamations/Recognitions:
Consent Agenda:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 1st, 2021.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1290-A totaling $433,403.91.
Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc – $13,993.75 – River Intake Project
May financials
Public Comment:
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
City Manager Reports and Comments:
Engineering Firm Update:
Director Report:
Old Business: None
Appearances: Bob Reed – Street Closure Request for Bourbon County Fair
New Business:
Resolution No. 8-2021 – Resolution accepting the 2022 Street recommendations from the Street Advisory Board for the 2022 budget.
Consideration of Proposal – Utility Locating and Marking Services – USIC
Approval to purchase Four Post Vehicle Lift
Approval to purchase Bobcat Track Loader
Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – July 4th – 300 Block of Coates Street
Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Burke Street Parade –
Approval to bid out front staircase of Memorial Hall
Discussion of survey of Lake Fort Scott lots and approval to record the lots
Discussion of Golf Cart Ordinance
Revisitation of previous discussion of mowing contract
Consideration of Engineering Proposal for National Avenue Reconstruction from 13th to 17th Street.
Re-discussion of Mill and Overlay of National – 13th to Highway 69
XII. Reports and Comments:
Commissioners Reports and Comments:
Josh Jones – SRO Officer Update
Municipal Court Update
First Source Building Update
Smart Growth Update
B. City Attorney Reports and Comments:
XIII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)
Executive Session – Attorney/Client Privilege
XIV. Adjournment:
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: June 15, 2021
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Kendell Mason
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM.
Call to Order
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 o
TOPEKA – The following is a letter from Governor Laura Kelly urging Senate President Ty Masterson and members of the Legislative Coordinating Council to extend the current State of Disaster Emergency Declaration. View a PDF of the letter here.
President Masterson,
On May 24, 2021, I submitted my first application for a 30-day extension of the COVID-19 state of disaster emergency to the Legislative Coordinating Council (“LCC”) pursuant to Senate Bill 40’s amendments to the Kansas Emergency Management Act (“KEMA”). K.S.A. 48-924(b)(3). Please consider this letter my specific application to extend the COVID-19 state of disaster emergency up to and including July 15, 2021.
While these conversations took place back in March, I do want to point out that my Chief of Staff discussed with legislators during session that the objective has been to get to the fall of 2021 and the start of the new school year to ensure that vaccine efforts are not stalled or impeded. To build on those conversations, I am including with this specific application an outline of the current plan regarding the State Emergency Operations Center (“SEOC”) and a timeline for demobilization of those efforts. This plan will include the following components:
The plan I present to you in this application continues to reduce the number of activities and pandemic emergency executive orders as we move closer ending the emergency declaration. Ultimately, this plan will require extensions from the LCC to August 30, 2021 as outlined below.
Priorities and Objectives to be Completed by August 30, 2021
There are several priorities that continue to need the attention of the State of Kansas and that require an extension of the state of disaster emergency declaration. First, we need to continue efforts to vaccinate school-aged children to allow schools to resume normal activities beginning this fall. As of June 11, 2021, Kansas has vaccinated 48,045 (20.1%) of children age 12-17. Based on current projections, we anticipate being able to have between 100,000 (42%) to 118,000 (49%) of this age group vaccinated by the end of August. There was a notable decline in the rate of children vaccinations as school ended for the summer. Vaccination efforts planned around the back to school period of early to mid-August will greatly increase the rate of vaccinations for this age group.
Second, we need KDEM to continue to support the distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine through our mobile clinics. The Kansas National Guard (“KSNG”) has administered 122,323 vaccines with 4,360 of those being administered since May 28, 2021. These efforts are directly tied to Executive Order 21-21 through the use of contract nurses who are able to perform vaccinations more easily under the order’s provisions. These contract nurses have delivered 45,981 vaccines across the state of Kansas. We continue to receive requests from employers to do onsite vaccination clinics, which is important to continue to vaccinate the workforce. To date, we have completed vaccine clinics at 47 employer locations across the state. The total number of employees who have had the opportunity to get vaccinated through this employer-partnership exceeds 40,000 Kansans. And, as of the writing of this letter, there are an additional 12 employers who have requested vaccination clinics for their nearly 5,000 (total) employees that are being scheduled. We have an additional 20 community vaccination clinics already scheduled between June 12 and July 27, 2021.
Third, we continue to receive resource requests from counties and hospitals that need to be fulfilled. We have received 5,090 resource requests for personal protective equipment (PPE), supplies, personnel and equipment. We have delivered 114,234 cases of PPE through these requests. Since May 28, 2021, there have been 26 requests, totaling 28,976 cases of PPE. Some of this equipment, such as ventilators, will need to be returned, inventoried, and receive maintenance work. Having a scheduled ramp-down will give counties and hospitals time to plan and understand that these resources will become unavailable after August 30th.
Fourth, as outlined below regarding executive orders, we need to continue requiring testing at our adult care homes and underserved populations. KSNG has tested over 30,603 individuals and transported over 26,304 samples to Kansas Health and Environment Laboratory (KHEL) with 297 of those samples since May 28, 2021. While these efforts will ultimately become part of KDHE’s normal operation, we need to continue to support these efforts through August 30th.
Without a disaster declaration in place, these priorities and objectives cannot be effectively accomplished. As you know, aside from removing the legal basis for conducting much of these efforts, the federal emergency response funding Kansas receives may be immediately imperiled if the disaster declaration expires. Pursuant to KEMA, the Adjutant General loses his authority to mission assign agencies such as the Civil Air Patrol, Highway Patrol, and others as part of the state response. These agencies do not have liability protection for work conducted in these efforts absent the emergency declaration.
Additionally, some of our most vulnerable Kansans would lose the emergency allotment of SNAP benefits the federal government provides to states with active COVID-19 emergency responses. Approximately 63,000 Kansas households would be affected by a loss of this additional financial support, and a total of around $14.5 million in additional benefits to those vulnerable Kansans and to our economy would be lost. While many of the elements of our emergency response from last summer are no longer essential, the disaster declaration itself is still essential.
SEOC COVID-19 Activities Closure Timeline
While there are certain activities that need to continue as described above, the list below indicates the mission assignments and activities that have been closed and which ones would be re-opened under an extension of the emergency declaration.
Mission Assignments
|
MISSION ASSIGNMENT DESCRIPTION |
CLOSURE DATE |
AGENCY |
|
Transportation (Vaccine Support)* |
06/03/2021 |
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) |
|
Contract Nurses** |
06/08/2021 |
KDEM |
|
Security for Vaccine Clinics* |
06/11/2021 |
KHP |
|
Facility for Vaccine Clinic* |
06/11/2021 |
KSHS |
|
Message Boards* |
06/11/2021 |
KDOT |
|
Courier Mission |
06/11/2021 |
KSNG |
|
Vaccine Administration |
06/15/2021 |
KSNG |
|
EPI Support to ESF 8 |
06/15/2021 |
KSNG |
|
JIC Support |
06/15/2021 |
KDOT |
|
Non-Congregate Shelter Management |
06/15/2021 |
DCF |
|
Distribution of Vaccine (FedEx) |
06/15/2021 |
KDEM |
|
FirstNet Phones |
06/15/2021 |
KDEM |
|
Contracting Support |
06/15/2021 |
TAG |
|
JIC Manager |
06/15/2021 |
TAG |
* May be extended if emergency declaration is extended.
** Has been transferred to KDHE
Non-Congregate Shelters and Supporting Contracts
|
CITY/COUNTY |
CLOSURE DATE |
|
Liberal/Seward |
06/03/2021 |
|
Salina/Saline |
06/07/2021 |
|
Emporia/Lyons |
06/09/2021 |
|
Gardner/Johnson |
06/15/2021 |
|
Lansing/Leavenworth |
06/15/2021 |
|
Kansas City/Wyandotte* |
NLT 07/15/2021 |
* This contract cannot be ended prior to July 15, 2021. Without the declaration extension the state assumes all legal and financial liabilities.
Food & Commodities
|
INVENTORY |
CLOSURE DATE |
|
Pantry Packs |
06/03/2021 |
|
Bulk Food |
06/03/2021 |
Rescinding or Sunsetting Executive Orders
Our administration has worked diligently to enable our state to responsibly pare down the number of pandemic emergency executive orders in place since the beginning of 2021. As of today, only nine pandemic executive orders remain in effect. In my May 24, 2021 application to extend the disaster declaration, I stated that in the weeks and months to come I would consider rescinding additional executive orders. In that continued effort, on June 14, 2021, I will issue an order rescinding all but two of the nine remaining pandemic executive orders. Orders will be rescinded as follows:
|
Order |
Subject |
Rescission Date |
|
21-10 |
Remote notaries and witnesses |
July 15, 2021 |
|
21-12 |
Licensure of adult care homes |
June 15, 2021 |
|
21-16 |
Driver’s license renewals |
June 30, 2021 |
|
21-17 |
Waiving the waiting week for unemployment benefits |
June 15, 2021 |
|
21-18 |
Income tax withholding for out-of-state telework |
June 15, 2021 |
|
21-19 |
Tuberculin testing requirements |
June 15, 2021 |
|
21-20 |
Deadline for rural water district annual meetings |
June 30, 2021 |
The two executive orders I do not intend to rescind at this time are 21-15 and 21-21. Executive Order 21-15 is the only mechanism in place to require COVID-19 testing in certain adult care homes licensed by the state. Without this order in place, the state’s ability to ensure the health and safety of staff and residents at such adult care homes will be severely compromised. Executive Order 21-21 grants temporary authority to certain medical personnel to administer COVID-19 vaccinations. Continued efforts to vaccinate as many Kansans as quickly as possible will be unnecessarily impeded if it expires.
The time to conclude our emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic under KEMA and to transition to a new normal for dealing with COVID-19 through standard authorities is approaching, but that time has not yet arrived. At the LCC’s May 28, 2021 meeting, some LCC members indicated that they wanted to see a plan for how we wind the emergency response down and return to normal. Our administration has now provided that plan. It will take until August 30, 2021, to execute it.
As circumstances have changed, we have transitioned to an emergency response that has been trimmed down to vaccination efforts, logistical support to local communities, finishing an orderly return to normal in state agencies, and securing federal financial support for our efforts. While COVID-19 could become an ever-present threat to public health if vaccination rates continue to decline, our emergency response will not be permanent. We owe it to Kansans to finish the job and wind down the state of disaster emergency responsibly.
As with the LCC’s previous meeting to consider an extension, at next Tuesday’s meeting Major General Weishaar, Dr. Norman, and members of my staff will be present to answer any questions the LCC may have.
Sincerely,
Laura Kelly
Governor
CC: Representative Ron Ryckman, Speaker of the House of Representatives
Senator Rick Wilborn, Vice President of the Senate
Senator Larry Alley, Senate Majority Leader
Senator Dinah Sykes, Senate Minority Leader
Representative Blaine Finch,
Speaker Pro Tem of the House of Representatives
Representative Dan Hawkins, House Majority Leader
Representative Tom Sawyer, House Minority Leader
Gordon Self, Revisor of Statutes
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL
CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
JUNE 15, 2021
6:00 P.M.
Call to Order
Roll Call:
K. Allen P. Allen R. Nichols L. Watts J. Jones
II. Flag Salute:
Invocation: Led by: (To be Announced)
Approval of Agenda:
Proclamations/Recognitions:
Consent Agenda:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 1st, 2021.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1290-A totaling $433,403.91.
Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc – $13,993.75 – River Intake Project
Public Comment:
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
City Manager Reports and Comments:
Engineering Firm Update:
Director Report:
Old Business: None
Appearances: Bob Reed – Street Closure Request for Bourbon County Fair
New Business:
Resolution No. 8-2021 – Resolution accepting the 2022 Street recommendations from the Street Advisory Board for the 2022 budget.
Consideration of Proposal – Utility Locating and Marking Services – USIC
Approval to purchase Four Post Vehicle Lift
Approval to purchase Bobcat Track Loader
Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – July 4th – 300 Block of Coates Street
Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Burke Street Parade –
Re-discussion of Mill and Overlay of National – 13th to Highway 69
Approval to bid out front staircase of Memorial Hall
Discussion of survey of Lake Fort Scott lots and approval to record the lots
Discussion of Golf Cart Ordinance
Revisitation of previous discussion of mowing contract
XII. Reports and Comments:
Commissioners Reports and Comments:
Josh Jones – SRO Officer Update
Municipal Court Update
First Source Building Update
Smart Growth Update
B. City Attorney Reports and Comments:
XIII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)
Executive Session – Attorney/Client Privilege
XIV. Adjournment:
CITY OF FORT SCOTT
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes are unapproved until the June 15 meeting
The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 1st, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners P. Allen, and R. Nichols were present with President of the Commission K. Allen presiding. L. Watts connected by Zoom. J. Jones was absent.
INVOCATION: Paul Martin, Community Christian Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Jason Dickman, Bill Meyer, Paul Martin, Ann Rawlins, David Stuart, Jon Eden, Cheryl Zimmerman, Matt Zimmerman, Zach Bradley, Ryan Collier, Justin Uhler, James Brackett, Bill Lemke, Dave Bruner, Steve Mason, Janice Allen, and Allyson Turvey.
PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Navy Fireman 3rd Class William L. Barnett Proclamation – President of the Commission, Kevin Allen, read a Proclamation proclaiming May 29th, 2021 as William L. Barnett Day in the City of Fort Scott.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 18th, 2021 and special meeting of May 25th, 2021.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1289-A totaling $325,700.29.
Request to Pay #2 – Triangle Builders, LLC – Mayco Ace Project – $100,429
Request to Pay – Insco Industries – Pool Brush Blasting & Repainting – Aquatic Center
Original Contract $32,750.00
Change Order #1 $ 925.00
Change Order #2 $ 600.00
Change Order #3 $ 45.00
Total $34,320.00
Dave Bruner shared photos of the pool brush blasting and repainting repair that was completed at the Aquatic Center.
K. Allen moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.
APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.
Bob Farmer, City Attorney, informed the Commission that he wished to address the May 25th, 2021, City Commission minutes. He said he was not in attendance at that meeting. He said that you accepted a letter from Mr. Hoyt and printed it verbatim in your minutes as if it was the City. He has two problems with this. One is it was a special meeting and it was completely off task. The other is probably more important in his opinion, but we are in the middle of litigation. There is a lot of things in that letter that are opinions. We need to stay away from other people’s opinions. They are not our opinions. They are not our official anything. To recognize those, puts the City at risk. We don’t get in the middle of opinions on litigation issues. His suggestion would be that that be removed from those minutes.
R. Nichols moved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.
Approved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes.
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
Bill Meyer – Mr. Meyer said he was here to speak in favor of the Planning Commission’s decision not to rezone the property at 2127 Jayhawk from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). He shared photos of his property and his back yard which butts up against the golf course. He lives at 14 Golfview Drive. They want to put a 50’ X 40’ structure in that area. This is a nice residential area that was annexed into the City and the residents do not want this commercial business in their neighborhood. He shared another photo of 2087 18th Street which is an automotive repair shop with lots of vehicles stored there. They do not want that in their neighborhood. At the Planning Commission meeting, there were numerous Golfview residents there who spoke in opposition to this zoning change. He asked them to do the same so they can maintain their residential neighborhood.
James Brackett – Mr. Brackett said that his son has lived here for several years and he recently retired in July of 2020 and moved here. They would like to open a small auto repair shop at their location, so he approached Ally and asked her how to go about to get the property rezoned. He asked for their consideration in the rezoning of this property.
City Manager Report and Comments: Jeremy Frazier, City Manager, informed the Commission that the City is wrapping up its efforts to start the demolition process of abandoned homes. It can take up to 90 days before the work can begin. Letters have been sent out with a deadline. He had a list of seven properties that he gave the Commission a list of. Lyle and Ally have been working hard on this process. There is a $50,000 budget for demolitions.
Kevin asked about the County and the demolition landfill fees.
Jeremy said that we are waiting on the County Attorney. Jeremy said that Susan is working hard on budgets and meeting with Directors. He has been working with the City engineer and working on several projects such as Cooper Street and several drainage issues. He discussed the K.U. Urban Planning and involving their students to look at a landscaping project in front of F.S.C.C. between 18th and 23rd Street on Horton. Fort Scott Forward continues to be held the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:45 a.m. at the River Room Event Center. Jeremy said that the Fort Scott Barber Shop gave out vouchers to all City employees which was a very nice gesture.
Pete mentioned that he and Jeremy were looking at drainage issues in front of the donut shop on National and a lady wanted to be introduced to Jeremy and stopped by. She came back later with a long john for each of them.
Appearances:
Alison Leach – Monarch Habitat – Alison asked to be removed from the agenda as she is not prepared to address the Commission on this issue yet).
Street Advisory Board Presentation – Brian Allen, Board Member of the Street Advisory Board, informed the Commission that their board met on May 13th, 2021 and went over several streets in dire need of repair. Their recommendation for 2022 is as follows:
Broadway Street Wall to Charles Asphalt Street
Crawford Street 3rd to Wall Street Brick Street
Crescent-Archer-Linden Asphalt Street
East 10th Street to Railroad Tracks Asphalt/Concrete
Main Street 6th To Skubitz Brick
Kevin also mentioned using inmates to assist with street repair. This program had been closed down due to Covid.
The Commission thanked the Street Advisory Board for their hard work in the recommendation of these streets.
City Attorney recommended have a resolution put together to adopt these streets for the next meeting.
Director Reports: None
Public Hearings: 6:15 p.m. Vacation of platted alley located between Lots 1-7, Block 2 and Lots 1-10, Block 1, Pratel Addition, and the platted alley between Lots 1-5, Block 2, and Lots 6, 7, & 9, Block 2, Pratel Addition, more commonly known as north of 0 N. Crawford.
L. Watts moved to open the Public Hearing at 6:49 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:49 P.M.
Allyson Turvey informed the Commission that Zach Bradley has requested that the two platted alleys located near his business be vacated. He owns the property all around this area. He is going to be putting his cattle washout business in this area. Zach has gotten the property rezoned and has obtained his licenses from the State of Kansas that are needed for his business.
Kevin asked for any comments from the audience.
Ryan Collier said that he owns the blue building across from this property. He said he is concerned about the smell as well as what chemicals will be put into our water source into the Marmaton River.
Ally said that he has obtained all his permits from the State of Kansas.
R. Nichols moved to approve Ordinance No. 3584 vacating the two alleys. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED VACATION OF THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-7, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 1-10, BLOCK 1, PRATEL ADDITION AND THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-5, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 6, 7, & 9, BLOCK 2, PRATEL ADDITION AND APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3584 ADOPTING THE VACATING OF THE ALLEYS.
R. Nichols moved to close the Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:55 P.M.
New Business:
Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to C-1 (Commercial) for the property at 124 S. Judson Street – Approval of Ordinance No. 3581 – Ally Turvey informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Commercial. The plan for the property is to be an accounting agency on the lower floor and an apartment upstairs. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.
R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3581. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3581 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO C-1 (COMMERCIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 124 SOUTH JUDSON STREET.
Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to I-1 (Industrial) for the property at 310 N. National Avenue – Approval of Ordinance No. 3582 – Ally informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Industrial. This property consists of 1.6 acres and the owner would like to manufacture wood pallets. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.
R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3582. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3582 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO I-1 (INDUSTRIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 310 N. NATIONAL AVENUE.
Consideration of change in zoning from A-G (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 Jayhawk Road – Approval of Ordinance No. 3583 – Ally said that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Agricultural to Mixed Use. The proposed use for the property was to build a garage and allow mechanical work to be completed there. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denying this zoning change due to the fact that they want to leave their neighborhoods as a residential area. You have heard from a couple of people already about this zoning change.
Kevin informed Mr. Brackett to contact Ally and see if there is another location for his proposed mechanic garage.
R. Nichols moved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). All voted aye.
approved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 jayhawk road.
Discussion of 2021 Contract Mowing Bid Award – Ally sent an email last Friday to the City Commission asking that the mowing contract that was awarded to Justin Uhler be rescinded and offered to the next bidder which is Doug Miller. She is greatly concerned by the growing number of properties which have not been mowed. As of Friday, there were 156 properties to be mowed and only 27 had been turned in that had been mowed. She did speak to Justin Uhler who told her that the property owners had mowed some of the properties, but all of the properties have not been mowed. There are over 120 properties to be mowed. A copy of the bid tabulation as well as the bid request is included in the packet. She knows there was a lot of rain lately. She shared data of precipitation over the month of May. The City is receiving a lot of phone calls about the high grass. There is a procedure that has to be followed and the grass has to be 8” in height. The property owner is notified one time, and then the City mows the lot.
Ryan Collier said that he helps Justin Uhler with mowing. They didn’t get the list until May 7th. He said that he made a phone call to Ally about the tall grass at the City building to the east of him. He said they were dealt a bad hand to start with.
Ally said that the bid was approved long before May 7th. The first round of letters went out April 26th.
Mr. Collier also mentioned the amount of brush and trash on the properties and that they don’t have time to mow and pick up all the brush and debris on the property.
Justin said that every Monday he meets with Lyle. He said that some of these yards are taking three and four hours to mow due to the height of the grass.
Kevin stated that he thinks they deserve some time to prove themselves before the contract is moved to another bidder. He thinks they deserve another couple of weeks to prove themselves.
Memorandum of Understanding – Bradley – signage – Ally informed the Commission that Zach Bradley is working to establish a new business, which is a cattle washout site. Due to the location of his property, he is requesting that the City allow him to place a business sign on City owned property located on Pratel Street near National Avenue. If approved, Mr. Bradley will sign a Memorandum of Understanding stating he is responsible for the sign.
City Attorney said that he saw this when he returned to the office on Tuesday. He said that he is not opposed to this, but allowing private use of public property could open a lot of issues. He asked the Commission to table this at this time since the business isn’t open yet. One of the issues is allowing this and what limitations you will allow and setting a precedence. He will do some research on this.
R. Nichols moved to table this item at this time. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
TABLED THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AT THIS TIME.
Consideration and Award of Bid – Pest Control – City Manager said that bids were sent out for the consideration and award of Pest Control spraying at nine (9) City facilities. There were three bids received with the low bid from Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $475.00 monthly, Quality Pest Control of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $480.00, and Ashcraft Pest Control (local company) in the amount of $500.00 per month. Approval for the local company, Ashcraft Pest Control, is recommended as it is within the 7% range. This is a three year contract.
R. Nichols moved to approve the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
approved the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. this is a three year contract.
Consideration and Award of Bid – Sanitation Service – Kevin said that bids were sent out for the pickup of sanitation at all City locations. There were three bids received with the low bid from 4 State Sanitation in the amount of $1,105.00 monthly, Short’s Trash Service of Frontenac, Kansas in the amount of $1,240.98; and GFL Environmental, Inc. of Lebanon, Missouri in the amount of $1,336.00. Approval for the local bid with 4 States Sanitation is recommended. This is a three year contract.
Cheryl Zimmerman of Short’s Trash Service thanked the Commission for allowing them to bid on this service.
P. Allen moved to approve the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. L. Watt seconded. All voted aye.
approved the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. This is a three year contract.
K. Allen left the meeting at 7:40 p.m.
Consideration and Award of Bid – Port-A-Potty Service – R. Nichols said that bids were sent out for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. There were two bids received with Skitch’s, Inc at a cost of $390.00 and a bid from Mid-America Sanitation at a cost of $1,365.00 on a weekly basis. Approval for the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. is recommended.
L. Watts moved to approve the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
approved the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract.
K. Allen returned to the meeting at 7:42 p.m.
Consideration to Bid Mill and Overlay Horton Street – 6th to 8th – City Manager asked the Commission if they would like to go out for bid for the mill and overlay of Horton Street between 6th and 8th Street.
Bill Lemke said that they hope to go out for bid and mill off 4” and lay 4” of asphalt down. The street has a lot of problems. Some could be old asphalt and some could be base issues. He asked to send this out for bid.
Kevin asked if the bid included the City would maintain all the millings.
Bill said yes. Some contractors may want to use a portion of those millings back into their process, but they can discuss that.
Pete said that it costs $4.65 for a yard and a half. How much will it cost for 4” of milling.
Bill said that before, when the street was worked on, only 2” was milled off.
Discussion was held on core drilling the street to see the base.
Pete said it was a simple process to dig a hole and look at the base and we can do that ourselves.
Reports and Comments:
Commissioner Reports and Comments:
L. Watts – Nothing to report.
R. Nichols – Remarked that the mural under the bridge at Riverfront is remarkable.
Said at the next meeting he would like an update on Smart Growth and how it relates to economic development.
P. Allen – Said that he appreciates all that the City Commission has done recently. He stated that Bob keeps us in pocket and out of trouble. He appreciates Jeremy’s assistance. He also said that he thinks we are headed in the right direction and working hard for the people in this community.
K. Allen – Thanked Stephen Toal for the beautiful murals he has recently painted in Fort Scott.
J. Jones – Not present.
City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.
Adjournment:
R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 p.m. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:02 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.
The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 1st, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners P. Allen, and R. Nichols were present with President of the Commission K. Allen presiding. L. Watts connected by Zoom. J. Jones was absent.
INVOCATION: Paul Martin, Community Christian Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Jason Dickman, Bill Meyer, Paul Martin, Ann Rawlins, David Stuart, Jon Eden, Cheryl Zimmerman, Matt Zimmerman, Zach Bradley, Ryan Collier, Justin Uhler, James Brackett, Bill Lemke, Dave Bruner, Steve Mason, Janice Allen, and Allyson Turvey.
PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Navy Fireman 3rd Class William L. Barnett Proclamation – President of the Commission, Kevin Allen, read a Proclamation proclaiming May 29th, 2021 as William L. Barnett Day in the City of Fort Scott.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 18th, 2021 and special meeting of May 25th, 2021.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1289-A totaling $325,700.29.
Request to Pay #2 – Triangle Builders, LLC – Mayco Ace Project – $100,429
Request to Pay – Insco Industries – Pool Brush Blasting & Repainting – Aquatic Center
Original Contract $32,750.00
Change Order #1 $ 925.00
Change Order #2 $ 600.00
Change Order #3 $ 45.00
Total $34,320.00
Dave Bruner shared photos of the pool brush blasting and repainting repair that was completed at the Aquatic Center.
K. Allen moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.
APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.
Bob Farmer, City Attorney, informed the Commission that he wished to address the May 25th, 2021, City Commission minutes. He said he was not in attendance at that meeting. He said that you accepted a letter from Mr. Hoyt and printed it verbatim in your minutes as if it was the City. He has two problems with this. One is it was a special meeting and it was completely off task. The other is probably more important in his opinion, but we are in the middle of litigation. There is a lot of things in that letter that are opinions. We need to stay away from other people’s opinions. They are not our opinions. They are not our official anything. To recognize those, puts the City at risk. We don’t get in the middle of opinions on litigation issues. His suggestion would be that that be removed from those minutes.
R. Nichols moved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.
Approved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes.
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
Bill Meyer – Mr. Meyer said he was here to speak in favor of the Planning Commission’s decision not to rezone the property at 2127 Jayhawk from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). He shared photos of his property and his back yard which butts up against the golf course. He lives at 14 Golfview Drive. They want to put a 50’ X 40’ structure in that area. This is a nice residential area that was annexed into the City and the residents do not want this commercial business in their neighborhood. He shared another photo of 2087 18th Street which is an automotive repair shop with lots of vehicles stored there. They do not want that in their neighborhood. At the Planning Commission meeting, there were numerous Golfview residents there who spoke in opposition to this zoning change. He asked them to do the same so they can maintain their residential neighborhood.
James Brackett – Mr. Brackett said that his son has lived here for several years and he recently retired in July of 2020 and moved here. They would like to open a small auto repair shop at their location, so he approached Ally and asked her how to go about to get the property rezoned. He asked for their consideration in the rezoning of this property.
City Manager Report and Comments: Jeremy Frazier, City Manager, informed the Commission that the City is wrapping up its efforts to start the demolition process of abandoned homes. It can take up to 90 days before the work can begin. Letters have been sent out with a deadline. He had a list of seven properties that he gave the Commission a list of. Lyle and Ally have been working hard on this process. There is a $50,000 budget for demolitions.
Kevin asked about the County and the demolition landfill fees.
Jeremy said that we are waiting on the County Attorney. Jeremy said that Susan is working hard on budgets and meeting with Directors. He has been working with the City engineer and working on several projects such as Cooper Street and several drainage issues. He discussed the K.U. Urban Planning and involving their students to look at a landscaping project in front of F.S.C.C. between 18th and 23rd Street on Horton. Fort Scott Forward continues to be held the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:45 a.m. at the River Room Event Center. Jeremy said that the Fort Scott Barber Shop gave out vouchers to all City employees which was a very nice gesture.
Pete mentioned that he and Jeremy were looking at drainage issues in front of the donut shop on National and a lady wanted to be introduced to Jeremy and stopped by. She came back later with a long john for each of them.
Appearances:
Alison Leach – Monarch Habitat – Alison asked to be removed from the agenda as she is not prepared to address the Commission on this issue yet).
Street Advisory Board Presentation – Brian Allen, Board Member of the Street Advisory Board, informed the Commission that their board met on May 13th, 2021 and went over several streets in dire need of repair. Their recommendation for 2022 is as follows:
Broadway Street Wall to Charles Asphalt Street
Crawford Street 3rd to Wall Street Brick Street
Crescent-Archer-Linden Asphalt Street
East 10th Street to Railroad Tracks Asphalt/Concrete
Main Street 6th To Skubitz Brick
Kevin also mentioned using inmates to assist with street repair. This program had been closed down due to Covid.
The Commission thanked the Street Advisory Board for their hard work in the recommendation of these streets.
City Attorney recommended have a resolution put together to adopt these streets for the next meeting.
Director Reports: None
Public Hearings: 6:15 p.m. Vacation of platted alley located between Lots 1-7, Block 2 and Lots 1-10, Block 1, Pratel Addition, and the platted alley between Lots 1-5, Block 2, and Lots 6, 7, & 9, Block 2, Pratel Addition, more commonly known as north of 0 N. Crawford.
L. Watts moved to open the Public Hearing at 6:49 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:49 P.M.
Allyson Turvey informed the Commission that Zach Bradley has requested that the two platted alleys located near his business be vacated. He owns the property all around this area. He is going to be putting his cattle washout business in this area. Zach has gotten the property rezoned and has obtained his licenses from the State of Kansas that are needed for his business.
Kevin asked for any comments from the audience.
Ryan Collier said that he owns the blue building across from this property. He said he is concerned about the smell as well as what chemicals will be put into our water source into the Marmaton River.
Ally said that he has obtained all his permits from the State of Kansas.
R. Nichols moved to approve Ordinance No. 3584 vacating the two alleys. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED VACATION OF THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-7, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 1-10, BLOCK 1, PRATEL ADDITION AND THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-5, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 6, 7, & 9, BLOCK 2, PRATEL ADDITION AND APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3584 ADOPTING THE VACATING OF THE ALLEYS.
R. Nichols moved to close the Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:55 P.M.
New Business:
Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to C-1 (Commercial) for the property at 124 S. Judson Street – Approval of Ordinance No. 3581 – Ally Turvey informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Commercial. The plan for the property is to be an accounting agency on the lower floor and an apartment upstairs. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.
R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3581. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3581 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO C-1 (COMMERCIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 124 SOUTH JUDSON STREET.
Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to I-1 (Industrial) for the property at 310 N. National Avenue – Approval of Ordinance No. 3582 – Ally informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Industrial. This property consists of 1.6 acres and the owner would like to manufacture wood pallets. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.
R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3582. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3582 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO I-1 (INDUSTRIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 310 N. NATIONAL AVENUE.
Consideration of change in zoning from A-G (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 Jayhawk Road – Approval of Ordinance No. 3583 – Ally said that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Agricultural to Mixed Use. The proposed use for the property was to build a garage and allow mechanical work to be completed there. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denying this zoning change due to the fact that they want to leave their neighborhoods as a residential area. You have heard from a couple of people already about this zoning change.
Kevin informed Mr. Brackett to contact Ally and see if there is another location for his proposed mechanic garage.
R. Nichols moved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). All voted aye.
approved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 jayhawk road.
Discussion of 2021 Contract Mowing Bid Award – Ally sent an email last Friday to the City Commission asking that the mowing contract that was awarded to Justin Uhler be rescinded and offered to the next bidder which is Doug Miller. She is greatly concerned by the growing number of properties which have not been mowed. As of Friday, there were 156 properties to be mowed and only 27 had been turned in that had been mowed. She did speak to Justin Uhler who told her that the property owners had mowed some of the properties, but all of the properties have not been mowed. There are over 120 properties to be mowed. A copy of the bid tabulation as well as the bid request is included in the packet. She knows there was a lot of rain lately. She shared data of precipitation over the month of May. The City is receiving a lot of phone calls about the high grass. There is a procedure that has to be followed and the grass has to be 8” in height. The property owner is notified one time, and then the City mows the lot.
Ryan Collier said that he helps Justin Uhler with mowing. They didn’t get the list until May 7th. He said that he made a phone call to Ally about the tall grass at the City building to the east of him. He said they were dealt a bad hand to start with.
Ally said that the bid was approved long before May 7th. The first round of letters went out April 26th.
Mr. Collier also mentioned the amount of brush and trash on the properties and that they don’t have time to mow and pick up all the brush and debris on the property.
Justin said that every Monday he meets with Lyle. He said that some of these yards are taking three and four hours to mow due to the height of the grass.
Kevin stated that he thinks they deserve some time to prove themselves before the contract is moved to another bidder. He thinks they deserve another couple of weeks to prove themselves.
Memorandum of Understanding – Bradley – signage – Ally informed the Commission that Zach Bradley is working to establish a new business, which is a cattle washout site. Due to the location of his property, he is requesting that the City allow him to place a business sign on City owned property located on Pratel Street near National Avenue. If approved, Mr. Bradley will sign a Memorandum of Understanding stating he is responsible for the sign.
City Attorney said that he saw this when he returned to the office on Tuesday. He said that he is not opposed to this, but allowing private use of public property could open a lot of issues. He asked the Commission to table this at this time since the business isn’t open yet. One of the issues is allowing this and what limitations you will allow and setting a precedence. He will do some research on this.
R. Nichols moved to table this item at this time. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
TABLED THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AT THIS TIME.
Consideration and Award of Bid – Pest Control – City Manager said that bids were sent out for the consideration and award of Pest Control spraying at nine (9) City facilities. There were three bids received with the low bid from Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $475.00 monthly, Quality Pest Control of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $480.00, and Ashcraft Pest Control (local company) in the amount of $500.00 per month. Approval for the local company, Ashcraft Pest Control, is recommended as it is within the 7% range. This is a three year contract.
R. Nichols moved to approve the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
approved the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. this is a three year contract.
Consideration and Award of Bid – Sanitation Service – Kevin said that bids were sent out for the pickup of sanitation at all City locations. There were three bids received with the low bid from 4 State Sanitation in the amount of $1,105.00 monthly, Short’s Trash Service of Frontenac, Kansas in the amount of $1,240.98; and GFL Environmental, Inc. of Lebanon, Missouri in the amount of $1,336.00. Approval for the local bid with 4 States Sanitation is recommended. This is a three year contract.
Cheryl Zimmerman of Short’s Trash Service thanked the Commission for allowing them to bid on this service.
P. Allen moved to approve the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. L. Watt seconded. All voted aye.
approved the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. This is a three year contract.
K. Allen left the meeting at 7:40 p.m.
Consideration and Award of Bid – Port-A-Potty Service – R. Nichols said that bids were sent out for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. There were two bids received with Skitch’s, Inc at a cost of $390.00 and a bid from Mid-America Sanitation at a cost of $1,365.00 on a weekly basis. Approval for the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. is recommended.
L. Watts moved to approve the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
approved the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract.
K. Allen returned to the meeting at 7:42 p.m.
Consideration to Bid Mill and Overlay Horton Street – 6th to 8th – City Manager asked the Commission if they would like to go out for bid for the mill and overlay of Horton Street between 6th and 8th Street.
Bill Lemke said that they hope to go out for bid and mill off 4” and lay 4” of asphalt down. The street has a lot of problems. Some could be old asphalt and some could be base issues. He asked to send this out for bid.
Kevin asked if the bid included the City would maintain all the millings.
Bill said yes. Some contractors may want to use a portion of those millings back into their process, but they can discuss that.
Pete said that it costs $4.65 for a yard and a half. How much will it cost for 4” of milling.
Bill said that before, when the street was worked on, only 2” was milled off.
Discussion was held on core drilling the street to see the base.
Pete said it was a simple process to dig a hole and look at the base and we can do that ourselves.
Reports and Comments:
Commissioner Reports and Comments:
L. Watts – Nothing to report.
R. Nichols – Remarked that the mural under the bridge at Riverfront is remarkable.
Said at the next meeting he would like an update on Smart Growth and how it relates to economic development.
P. Allen – Said that he appreciates all that the City Commission has done recently. He stated that Bob keeps us in pocket and out of trouble. He appreciates Jeremy’s assistance. He also said that he thinks we are headed in the right direction and working hard for the people in this community.
K. Allen – Thanked Stephen Toal for the beautiful murals he has recently painted in Fort Scott.
J. Jones – Not present.
City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.
Adjournment:
R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 p.m. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:02 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.
TOPEKA – Kansans with a driver’s license or identification card that expired between March 12, 2020, and March 30, 2021, have until June 30 to renew those credentials. This is due to the COVID-19 extension for these credentials expiring with the passage of Senate Bill 127.
In April, the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Division of Vehicles sent out more than 55,700 postcards to Kansans who have not renewed their license or identification card and would be affected by the deadline. As of June 1, there are still 45,000 Kansans needing to renew their credentials.
“In addition to ending the COVID-19 extension for expired credentials, the legislation expanded the age range on mobile renewals,” David Harper, the Division of Vehicles director, said. “Summer is typically a busy time for our offices as teen drivers come in for the first time. Because of that, we are heavily encouraging the use of iKan, the Department’s online driver’s license renewal system.”
Mobile renewals are open to Kansans who are 21 to 64 years old, have had a vision test within the past year, and their license is up to one year before or after expiration.
The online platform is available at https://ikan.ks.gov/ or on mobile devices by downloading the iKan app from the Apple App or Google Play stores.
Walk-in customers are welcome. However, if needing to visit an office, appointments are encouraged. Customers with appointments receive priority. Information about making an appointment can be found at https://www.ksrevenue.org/DOVAppointmentInfo.
