KDOC/KBI Cold Case Playing Cards Highlight Unsolved Homicides, Missing Persons, Unidentified Remains
[Topeka, Kansas] A deck of playing cards – each including information about an unsolved crime in Kansas – will soon be distributed in state prisons and county jails across the state.
The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), in partnership with the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police (KACP), the Kansas Sheriff’s Association (KSA) and the Kansas Peace Officers Association (KPOA), have developed the Cold Case Playing Cards as a way of generating tips that may help resolve cases of unsolved homicides, missing persons or unidentified remains.
Each card in the deck includes brief information about an unsolved crime along with a phone number for anyone with information to call: 1-800-KS-CRIME. These cards highlight case details in the hope that a person or persons familiar with a case will come forward with information leading to its resolution. The Cold Case Playing Cards will replace current decks of standard playing cards available in prisons and county jails. Decks will be placed in dayrooms and other common areas, and available through the commissary for purchase by KDOC residents.
“Our agency and our state’s criminal justice community have a commitment to the victims of crimes,” said Kansas Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda. “Our staff members see the unresolved pain experienced by the many families we work with. Hearing the responses from surviving family members when notified that their loved one’s case has been selected for the deck has been powerful and humbling. These families have waited a long time for answers, and this brings some hope.”
“Every call or tip that is shared with law enforcement will be vetted by investigators assigned to the case,” said KBI Director Kirk Thompson. “No matter how small, each tip has the potential of being the missing piece of information needed to finally provide justice to crime victims and their families.”
Other states have solved multiple cold case homicides, missing person cases and suspicious deaths by making these cards available.
“Not every tip received leads to resolution of a case, but someone usually knows something,” Secretary Zmuda said. “Within Kansas correctional facilities and jails, we have segments of our population who want to do something good, perhaps atone for past mistakes, and they may have information about unsolved cases. Our hope is that we receive actionable intelligence that leads to solving cases.”
Development of the project began in March 2021 and included law enforcement partners, representatives from victim services, facility-based programs, private industry, media and families whose lives have been impacted by homicide. Through a submissions process that began in December 2021, local law enforcement from across Kansas provided 81 cases to be highlighted. A selection committee with representatives from KDOC, KBI, the Kansas Attorney General’s Office and local law enforcement prioritized 59 cases to highlight on the first deck of 52 cards.
The oldest case is from 1976 and the most recent case is from 2020. Unsolved homicide cases are from Cherokee, Dickinson, Doniphan, Finney, Ford, Franklin, Geary, Johnson, Leavenworth, Mitchell, Montgomery, Osage, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee and Wyandotte counties. Missing person cases are from Leavenworth, Lincoln, Pottawatomie, Saline and Sedgwick counties. The unidentified remains case is from Geary County.
“For many of these cases even after years of investigative work has occurred, questions still remain that need answers before a perpetrator can be held accountable,” Director Thompson said. “It’s our hope that by distributing this deck more attention is drawn to these cases, and that someone comes forward with details that will move us one step closer to providing justice.”
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 424 S. Main for a special board meeting on Thursday, April 21, 2022, at 5:30 p.m.
The board went into executive session to discuss personnel matters for nonelected personnel and returned to open meeting. Board members approved the following employment matters:
A. Retirement of David Brown, Fort Scott Middle School Principal, effective July 1, 2022
B. Resignation of Ted Hessong, Superintendent, effective June 30, 2022
C. Resignation of Nina Merriman-Reed, middle school paraprofessional, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year
D. Change of title for Dalaina Smith, Director of Academics, to Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment for the 2022-23 school year
E. Work schedule adjustment for Staci Sinn-Black, technician, to include two periods of teaching middle school Business Essentials for the 2022-23 school year
F. Addition of a special education early childhood teaching position for the 2022-23 school year
G. Adjustment in a middle school half-time teacher aide position to a full-time teacher aide position for the 2022-23 school year
The board adjourned.
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 424 S. Main for a second special board meeting on Thursday, April 21, 2022, at 6:48 p.m.
The board went into executive session to discuss personnel matters for nonelected personnel and returned to open meeting.
KCC alerts utility customers that high energy costs are forecast to continue nationwide due to increased commodity price volatility
TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) is alerting consumers that energy prices are expected to remain high for the foreseeable future based on current national forecasts. This will likely increase the cost to cool homes and businesses this summer and heat them this winter. Now is the time to take steps to weatherize your home and undertake energy efficiency investments as you are able.
Like many other energy and commodity prices, monthly wholesale natural gas prices have recently increased to levels not seen in the United States since September 2008. Wholesale electricity prices have increased as well. On April 18, the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) futures price for natural gas climbed to nearly $8/MMBtu (Metric Million British thermal units) for May and June, with prices over $8/MMBtu for the rest of this year and upcoming winter. For context, natural gas prices regularly traded in the $2-$3/MMBtu range for much of the last decade.
Wholesale prices for natural gas are based on supply and demand and are not regulated, a decision made by the U.S. Congress in the 1980s. Accordingly, these costs are often outside the direct control of energy providers, and are passed through to the end consumer outside of a rate case without markup or profit. It is important to note that the pass through energy costs are audited by KCC audit staff to make sure customers only pay the actual wholesale energy costs that their utility provider pays, again without markup or profit.
The Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently released its Short-Term Energy Outlook indicating energy price forecasts for the rest of the year are subject to heightened levels of uncertainty from factors such as the continuing war between Russia and Ukraine, decisions of OPEC+, and the rate at which U.S. Oil and Natural Gas producers increase drilling in response to higher prices.
The Commission has launched an online resource to provide additional information, help consumers minimize the impact, and find financial and weatherization assistance. The information is available at https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-alert-spring-2022
Kansas Department of Health and Environment Supports New Community Health Worker Certification
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Community Health Worker Coalition are excited to announce the new Community Health Worker Certification. This certification is the first in the state to recognize the valuable role that Community Health Workers (CHWs) play in communities as they serve as a link between health and social services and communities to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.
“CHWs play an integral role in patient-centered health care teams. They improve care accessibility and health outcomes. The diversity of backgrounds, skills and experiences CHWs bring is a strength,” said David Jordan, President and CEO of United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. “The new certification process standardizes Community Health Worker education and training. Ultimately, this will strengthen community health workers’ future in Kansas. The Health Fund is proud to have partnered with the Kansas Community Health Worker workgroup, KDHE and the Kansas Community Health Worker Coalition to standardize the role of CHWs in Kansas.”
A Certification Task Force was formed out of a need to investigate pathways for certification and started in the coalition’s Sustainability Committee. Over the past five years, the development of this certification has been inclusive and transparent. More than 40 individuals from the Kansas Community Health Worker Coalition and beyond were involved in the process.
“Having a certification process for CHWs is key to expanded career options and future opportunities,” said Stefanie Olson, KDHE CHW Section Director.
“This certification also provides CHWs who serve in their communities a way to validate and build their skills in individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy” said Alma Vargas, KS CHW Coalition Executive Co-Chair. “It also offers employers of CHWs – particularly health care providers with a key support in these times of increased need for skilled health professionals. This statewide recognized certification can distinguish CHWs from their peers and can help them as they work towards other goals.”
Is this certification for you? Certification requires:
High School Diploma or High School Equivalent. Exceptions may be made.
Completion of one of these two pathways.
Education Pathway: Applicant must complete the KDHE approved CHW training program through the Kansas CHW Coalition or a certified Kansas CHW education provider.
Work Experience Pathway: Applicant must complete 800 hours over three years plus three letters of recommendation to document work and/or volunteer experience.
Given CHWs important role in advancing health equity and addressing social determinants of health, these efforts could not have come at a better time.
Visit the Community Health Worker Coalition to learn more about and apply for the certification, scholarships are available. Health topic information and other resources to support CHWs can be found on both the KDHE and CHW websites. Join KDHE on Thursday, June 9 at Wichita State University, Rhatigan Student Center at 9 a.m. for the annual Kansas Community Health Worker Symposium. Sponsorship and scholarship opportunities are available.
~~Assistance Available for Housing Developers to Jumpstart Projects, Address Rural Housing Shortage~~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the launch of a new housing program for developers to help address the housing needs of communities across Kansas. The Startup Housing Opportunity Venture Loan (SHOVL) program provides funding to housing developers for expenses incurred before the closing of permanent financing for housing developments.
“A shortage of quality, affordable housing is a barrier to economic growth and development throughout the state – and particularly in rural Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Affordable housing is a vital component of recruiting and retaining workers, families, and entrepreneurs to help rural and urban Kansas thrive. We can’t capitalize on our record-breaking economic success if we don’t have affordable housing options for our workforce, and I’m pleased this new program will be another step in addressing this challenge.”
Economic development, including new business recruitment, business expansions and job retention, is highly dependent on available and adequate housing. To qualify for the SHOVL program, the housing developments must directly connect to past, current, or future economic development efforts. This link between housing and economic development may include:
New job creation within the last several years
An opportunity to attract a new business with the development of workforce housing
Expansion plans by an existing local business
A pending economic development project that will require additional housing
Job retention of a local business dependent upon adequate housing development
“We remain committed to finding creative ways to assist developers in finding the funding they need to get projects started,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “Housing is critical to economic development and we must continue to invest in housing in order to attract new businesses and new residents to the state.”
SHOVL is available for housing developers looking to construct housing developments in communities with populations of 10,000 or less. The program will offer a no-interest loan of up to $25,000 and require a 20% match. Loans are available to private developers, non-profit organizations, or the local government.
“Rural housing development often lacks something that can jump start the process. The SHOVL program will provide that spark,” Housing Specialist, Randy Speaker said.
More information on the SHOVL program is available here.
Governor Kelly Fights to Address Rising Prices, Calls For $250 Tax Rebate, Providing Immediate Relief for Kansans
~~Governor Urges Legislature to Reconsider one-time $250 Tax Rebate through Budget Amendment to Provide Kansas Taxpayers with Immediate Relief~~
TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced an additional $460 million through a Governor’s Budget Amendment (GBA) for a one-time $250 tax rebate to all Kansas residents who filed a 2020 tax return in 2021. Resident tax filers who filed as married and filing jointly will be eligible for a $500 direct payment.
“We’ve worked hard to get Kansas’ budget back on track after years of mismanagement,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Our strong economic growth would not be possible without the hard work of Kansas taxpayers, and I want to return this money to the people who earned it. Especially right now, when we are all experiencing the impact of rising costs at the pump and the grocery store, the state can make an immediate and direct impact to help Kansas families pay their bills and save for the future.”
Governor Kelly previously called for the one-time $250 tax rebate to all Kansas taxpayers in her budget proposal, but the full House and Senate rejected funding for this measure. However, similar bipartisan plans have been proposed in numerous other states, including most recently, the state of Missouri.
Under the Governor’s plan, Kansas will return approximately $460 million to over 1.2 million Kansas residents who paid taxes in 2021. Additionally, by using one-time revenue, this will have no impact on the state’s ongoing ability to collect revenues that fund critical services or eliminate the state’s food sales tax. The proposal will be paid for with Kansas’ current budget surplus and is intended to provide relief to tax filers who are Kansas residents.
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2022-2025 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) document.
The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System. The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp.
The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes May 4. To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at (785) 296-3254.
This information is available in alternative accessible formats. To obtain an alternative format, contact the KDOT Division of Communications, (785) 296-3585 (Voice/Hearing Impaired-711).
The Regular Council Meeting on April 12, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:02 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, and Josh Hartman. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Susan Eldridge, Uniontown Alumni Association, Raymond “Skeet” George, Uniontown Ruritan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
CITIZENS REQUEST
Susan Eldridge, Uniontown Alumni Association asked for permission to hold the all school reunion in the city park the evening of Saturday, September 3, 2022. They will provide insurance certificate. They request that the ban on alcoholic beverages in the park be lifted for that evening and want to know if there are any other limitations.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to allow Uniontown Alumni Association to host all school reunion in the city park on September 3, 2022, allow alcohol consumption from 5PM to Midnight, and no glass containers allowed
Raymond “Skeet” George, Ruritan – asked the council to recess to view the location for the proposed public restrooms.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to recess for 10 minutes to view 112 Second St
Meeting resumed at 7:19. Mr George asked for action to designate the location for the project.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to allow preliminary planning for construction of an ADA public restroom at northeast corner of 112 Second St
Discussion followed regarding funding for the public restroom, pickleball court, and outdoor equipment. This project qualifies for the placemaking pathway we pledged. Contact REDI for best time to submit an application for 2022 funding. ARPA funds could also be used for this.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger was absent. March written Treasurer’s Report and 1st Quarter Report were presented. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $338,643.12, Receipts $52,765.73, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $23,883.18, Checking Account Closing Balance $364,499.67. Bank Statement Balance $364,938.99, including Checking Account Interest of $29.90, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $439.32, Reconciled Balance $364,499.67. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,063.99, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,566.16, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,346.12, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $441,475.94. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $85.61, and Utility CDs $74.84 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $160.45. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of March 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. March Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Total Transfers of $3,026.00. Net Income for the month of March $25,856.55, Year-to-Date Net Income $40,756.17. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $27,812.18 (26.4%), Expenditures $25,333.54 (19.5%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $8,633.12 (24.2%), Expenditures $11,942.48 (29.1%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $54,144.38 (38.8%), Expenditures $28,296.04 (11.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $49,170.41 (38.3%), Expenditures $29,562.90 (17.9%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $1,814.86 (26.5%), Expenditures $397.28 (3.7%). The April 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $29,474.19 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
Superintendent Rich reported that the storage building at 112 Second St has been removed, two gas main valves have been replaced, and the speed bumps/signs have been installed.
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that 104 Fulton has been cleaned up by new owner. An issue of trash in a trailer and debris in the back yard at 202 Fourth St was addressed and trailer has been removed. 103 Fifth is being cleaned up by new owner. He has contacted our attorney twice in the last two months to get something resolved with the Smith Estate with no response back. 301 Second St #1 has a lot of clutter and debris. Clerk Johnson will contact the attorney to try to speed things up. It was suggested to schedule a worksession to continue discussion on shipping/storage containers, accessory/storage buildings, fences regulations and citywide solid waste. It will be scheduled at next meeting. Councilmember Ervin asked him to go by 301 Second St and address the collection of clutter/debris.
Clerk Johnson presented the financial audit contract with minimal increase in cost but less than anticipated in the budget.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept the financial audit engagement letter with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton
Loren Korte was here with the insurance renewal and went over changes with Clerk Johnson. Overall increase in premiums is 6.74% but less than anticipated in the budget. He will present to council if needed. Council concurred it was not needed.
Rabies clinic was April 9 with a good turnout. Thirteen dogs and seven cats were registered at the clinic. Clerk Johnson presented a list of animals registered last year that are not yet registered this year, a list of new residents that need a reminder that dogs and cats are required to be registered, and a list of those that have registered but not provided proper rabies documentation. She will go over this list with Animal Control Officer Binford to get citations issued.
Kansas Municipal Utilities conference in April 27-29 in Wichita which also includes the KMGA Board of Directors meeting and an afternoon of sessions on gas.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to allow Bobby Rich and/or Sally Johnson to attend the KMU conference in Wichita, April 27-29, if they choose
KMGA will be hosting regional meetings this year. The one for our area will be in Humboldt on July 14. Will put on the agenda again in June. Clerk Johnson also presented a market update from KMGA.
Midwest Assistance Program would like to assist communities in the application process for USDA community facility project grants and/or loans. Clerk Johnson will contact them for more information about what is available and what would be the city’s obligation.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – absent
Councilman Stewart – absent
Mayor Jurgensen – thanked councilmembers and employees that attended the county commission meeting last month. Asked if fish food has been received. Clerk Johnson has ordered but it has not been shipped yet, she will follow-up. He had a request to change elected officials pay to monthly whether attend regular meeting or not which led to a discussion on protocol for elected officials censure or removal. Clerk Johnson will have the attorney draft an ordinance addressing elected officials pay and protocols.
OLD BUSINESS
Wholesale water supply – table until next month.
Pond Improvement Project – Invitations to bid should be sent/published next month and the liner needs to be ordered due to shipping times.
City Utility Low-Interest Loan update – this does not need to be discussed monthly, put on the agenda quarterly for updates.
American Rescue Plan Act update – The annual report has been submitted. There was some discussion about using the funds for the public restrooms, pickleball court, and outdoor exercise equipment. We will add discussion of the funds to the worksession we schedule next month.
Street Repair – Mayor Jurgensen was thanked for asking county commissioners for a commitment to help us on our streets this year at the March 22 commission meeting. Table further discussion until next month.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:00PM
Meeting resumed at 9:00PM. No action was taken
Moved by Ervin, Second by Esslinger Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 9:00PM
April 12, 2022Tuesday 9:00 am The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present. Also present for the meeting were, (some were present for a portion of the meeting, some were present for the entire meeting) Matt Quick, Susan Bancroft, Justin, Meeks, Lora Holdridge, Bill Martin, Roger Harris, Clint Walker, Anne Dare, Cynthia Stine, Dale Bollinger, Randy Ruby, Marti Tuchscherer, Patty LaRoche, Nancy Maze, Mark Bolton, Donald Coffman, Tim Mckenney, Deb Mckenney, Linda Noll, Matt Noll, and Dale Arnold. Clifton made a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes, Lynne seconded. All approved. Eric Bailey presented 2 permits: The first permit was Craw-Kan for a utility permit for fiber installation on Locust Rd and Limestone Rd. Clifton made a motion to approve the permit for Craw-Kan as stated by Eric Bailey. Lynne seconded. All approved. The second permit was for Don Garrett/Brad Bradley for a culvert permit for new installation at 35th& Yellowstone Rd. Clifton made a motion to approve the permit at 35thand Yellowstone as stated by Eric Bailey. Lynne seconded. All approved. Eric informed that there is decking loose on a bridge between Birch and Calvary and 120thand 130th. He said it is closed today for repair should be done today and back open. Eric said that KDOT is in the area and are doing traffic counts in the county in case anyone sees them. He said that the composting permit for landfill is still in process and has not been approved yet. There is another review process that needs to be completed before it can be approved. Eric said that before he gets a bunch of calls on Arrowhead there had been dust control done years ago and they are tearing it up to fix potholes and turn it back to gravel they, are not paving that road. Eric informed the commission that there are a few from his department as well as himself that are going to be attending a training on Thursday in Chanute and has to do with signs as well as other things. Eric is finalizing the punch list on the windmill project and working with Justin to get the roads turned back over to county. Hard surface roads were discussed as to what needed to be completed this year. Jim explained that there is a sales tax for that purpose and each district get one third of it. Jim said that for his district he would like to see 195thon the East side of Fort Scott Lake as well as 215thfrom Indian to 39 Hwy. Lynne said he would like to see Maple between Uniontown and Bronson, Yale road and Yellowstone that was tore up and left gravel repaved at Hidden Valley Lake. He also said that if there was any money left, he would like to see 125thbetween 54 Hwy and Maple Road. Eric presented some information on a company called Onyx that is a turnkey operation that would replace chip and seal and extend the life of the road and hopefully that will help give more time to resurface the road on a schedule to keep them maintained better. Clifton said that he would like to see a plan that looked at what roads are the worst and heaviest traveled and have a plan based on that and not worry about each district getting the exact same amount of money. He said that all of the road mentioned need fixed and they need a plan to do it even if it isn’t divided evenly. He said that the roads he would like to look at in his district would be Old 69 Hey between Fort Scott and Fulton and Soldier Road east of Hammond. He said he didn’t get any money for his district last year because another district needed it more and that is how it should be done and he would like to see a plan based like that. The commissioners asked Eric to bring a plan for review but Jim and Lynne both agreed they would like to keep their portion in their own district unless Clifton needs some since he gave up his last year. The commissioners, Eric Bailey, and Dustin Hall discussed ways that they could possibly make the money go further and make the roads last longer with the money that they have available. Multiple community members were in attendance that expressed concerns for roads in their areas of the county. Lynne said he was approached by a patron in Uniontown about tires. I would like permission to go talk with Ol’Boy Tires. Clifton made a motion to allow Lynne to go visit with a local business in Uniontown. Jim seconded. All approved. Jim asked Eric about putting up the signs previously discussed. Eric said with this being a short week they would get them up next week. Lora Holdridge requested an executive session. Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks, Lora Holdridge and Shane Walker for 10 minutes returning at 10:18am to this room. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 10:18am with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved. Lynne made a motion to amend agenda moving County Counselor to the end of the session. Clifton seconded. All approved. Ashley presented an agreement from Tri-Valley for appropriations of $55,000.00 which is what was budgeted. This agreement is a renewal from previous year. Clifton made a motion to approve the agreement. Lynne seconded. All approved. Susan received notice that we did not receive the base grant which was for the Spyder parking lot. We’ll have to figure out other ways to do that. That’s the 1stfederal grant that you didn’t receive. She did some checking and no one in Bourbon County or the City received any grant funding. Susan said she would make some phone calls and find out why. Susan requested an executive session regarding nonelected personnel for 15 minutes. Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks, and Dave Bruner for 15 minutes returning to this room at 10:37am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 10:37am with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to allow Mr. Judy for public comment. Lynne seconded. All approved. Mr. Judy asked if the handicapped ramps could be fixed. Lynne stated that we are in the process of fixing those.
Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy including 3 commissioners, Justin Meeks, Susan Bancroft, and Shane Walker for 20 minutes returning to this room at 11:01am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 11:01am with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved. Susan stated that we took quotes for mowing at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. They were due today at 10am. Phillips Lawn Care had the lowest per occurrence quote at $500. With the unknowns of the property we would do at on a month-to-month basis until we figure some things out. Clifton made a motion to accept the quote from Phillips to mow on a per time as needed basis. Lynne seconded. All approved.Susan stated that we are looking at possible funding we need from ARPA funds for EMS. Dave Bruner left some information with me and each commissioner received a copy. I would like a week to look through and see if it meets all the obligations and then come back with a proposal on potential ARPA funding. We had a couple hundred thousand left over from last year’s funds that could possibly help us with some urgent need items for EMS. They are looking at needing to possibly replace one of the ambulances in the near future, but we are two years out on a brand new. If we did a remount, it would be 13 months. If we book this year, we have to pay the entire thing or we could go with a lease purchase which I would recommend with the unknowns today. Rob Harrington mentioned that there might be a USDA grant that we are going to look into that and bring information to you next week. Jim asked how things were coming on the north sidewalk and parking. Susan stated that they looked at it last week and they are getting ready to give us the engineering report and then we’ll put it out to bid. Public Comment: Clint Walker talked about an $89 million dollar transmission line project. The Kansas Corporation Commission has made the decision and no local government has any say in it whether being a zoned or non-zoned county. Michael Hoyt restated his request that he made a Uniontown that the commission provide in advance documents that would allow the public to participate in the budgeting process. There is a public hearing portion of the budget process and there’s not much we can do if we don’t have the information ahead of time. It is imperative that this happens. Susan asked the commissioners to give her authority to go talk to the city manager regarding EMS. Elected Official Comment: Who does the grants for the County? Is it internal or outside? Susan stated it is internal. Bill stated that grants are starting to be available. He would like information as to why grants are turned down and that information can be passed on to their grant writers for future. Commission Comment: Clifton made a motion for Susan to be able to talk to the city manager concerning EMS. Lynne seconded. All approved. Jim stated that KDOT will be hosting a region 4 commission road supervisor meeting in Chanute on April 21 at 9am. I am planning to attend and hope the other two commissioners will consider attending. Eric is planning to attend. Susan is going as well. Jim made a motion that all commissioners be allowed to attend the meeting. Clifton seconded. All approved.
Anne dare asked about evening meetings. Garland will be contacted to schedule for April 26th. May 17this scheduled at the courthouse at 6pm. County Counsel Comments: Justin requested an executive session. Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets or corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships including 3 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Rob Harrington, and Justin Meeks for 15 minutes returning to this room at 11:28am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 11:28am with action. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to allow Susan to visit with CEO of Via Christi Hospital concerning contracts. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships including 3 commissioners, Rob Harrington, Susan Bancroft, and Justin Meeks for 10 minutes returning to this room at 11:41am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 11:41am with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved. At 11:42pm, Lynne made a motion to adjourn. Clifton seconded. All approved. THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS (ss) Jim Harris, Chairman (ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner ___________________, Commissioner ATTEST: Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Clerk April 19, 2022, Approved Date
The City of Fort Scott Street Department will be closing Old Fort Boulevard to Main Street for painting of the parking stalls from 12:00 p.m. on Friday, April 22nd, 2022 until the project is completed later in the day.
Should you have any questions, call City Hall at 620-223-0550.
We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience during this time.
Lives again our glorious King,
Where O death is now thy sting?
Dying once He all doth save,
Where thy victory, O grave?
Love’s redeeming work is done,
Fought the fight, the battle won,
Death in vain forbids Him rise,
Christ has opened paradise.
Soar we now where Christ has led,
Following our exalted Head,
Made like him, like Him we rise,
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies.
Visiting Cottonwood Complex Fire Damage in Reno County
In early March, a massive wildfire, now known as the “Cottonwood Complex fire,” ravaged parts of Reno County. Residents had to evacuate their homes, and 95 homes, 92 outbuildings and 110 vehicles were destroyed in the blaze. One life was tragically lost.
On Monday, I was welcomed by Chief Steven Beer of the Hutchinson Fire Department and Reno County Emergency Manager Adam Weishaar, who introduced me to the men and women who risk their lives to serve and protect their community. This was an opportunity for me to say thank you to these firefighters. They deserve respect and support, especially as we see more dry and windy conditions each year. We must stay vigilant and practice caution when our weather conditions are conducive to producing these destructive wildfires. In December, we saw several major fires spread out over multiple western Kansas counties. And in recent years, we suffered record-breaking wildfires in Barber County in 2016 and Clark County in 2017.
There are mitigation programs that local, state and federal governments can work together on to help reduce this risk that we face too frequently these days. I was able to take away from this meeting a few objectives, including making sure that funds are available to reduce the invasive eastern red cedars which dominate and choke out much of Kansas’ prairie vegetation.
I am grateful to Fire Chief Beer for allowing me to come to Hutchinson and thank the local first responders, but I recognize that there are so many more that have aided in Reno County’s recovery than the few I was able to visit with on Monday. To those communities near and far who sent your firefighters to Reno County to assist and save lives and property last month: thank you. Your kindness and concern for our neighbors makes me proud to represent such great people. Thank you also to Reno County Commissioner Daniel Friesen and Administrator Randy Partington for joining on the visit and to those who provided me an update on the ongoing efforts to keep the Hutchinson community safe. Watch here or below.
Dreams Worth Chasing: Hosting Former Astronaut Dr. Janet Kavandi in Hutchinson
Discussing STEM Education and Inspiring the Next Generation at the Cosmosphere
This week, I hosted former astronaut Dr. Janet Kavandi to speak to area elementary school students at the Cosmosphere and discuss with them the importance of STEM education. Dr. Kavandi shared her upbringing in Carthage, Missouri and how she was selected to be an astronaut in 1994. She was a mission specialist on three Space Shuttle missions and has spent more than a month in space. Dr. Kavandi is current the president of Sierra Space Corporation and shares my goal of inspiring the next generation.
I was pleased that she was able to share her story and take questions from local students, and the Cosmosphere was the perfect place to host an event like this. The Cosmosphere has been a hub for scientific inspiration and educational innovation for the Hutchinson community, for Kansas and for those who come to visit from across the globe since its founding in 1962. From the digital dome theater to the planetarium to the Hall of Space Museum and hands-on lab, the Cosmosphere does an incredible job getting kids and adults alike interested in science and space.
The students were also given a spacecraft tour after they asked Dr. Kavandi questions about being an astronaut. Through my role on the appropriations committee that provides resources to NASA, I have made certain that STEM education is always a priority. Thank you to Dr. Kavandi for speaking to students in Kansas and for helping me inspire future scientists, engineers and astronauts. I also want to thank Jim Remar at the Cosmosphere and their incredible staff for hosting us.
Reception
On Wednesday evening, I also invited Dr. Kavandi to speak at the Cosmosphere regarding her experience as an astronaut and share about her exciting work as president of Sierra Space Corporation. We were joined by community leaders, Cosmosphere Board of Directors, staff and many others interested in space. Thank you again to Dr. Kavandi for joining us and to Jim Remar for hosting the event.
Speaking with Ag Leaders
Prairie Land Electric Coop Annual Meeting
It was great to be in Norton on Tuesday to speak at the Prairie Land Electric Coop annual meeting. We discussed the need for America to produce enough energy to meet our own needs and not be dependent on foreign suppliers like Russia for our energy. We also discussed issues affecting coops like Prairie Land, including access to supplies to repair damaged powerline infrastructure due to extreme weather and the challenges of keeping electricity affordable and reliable for its members and owners. I discussed my Flexible Financing for Rural America Act, legislation which would allow electric cooperatives to reprice Rural Utilities Service (RUS) loans to take advantage of lower interest rates. Taking advantage of lower rates would allow for better cash-flow management, investment in rural communities, and more savings for consumers.
I appreciate the coop for letting me join their meeting and for giving me an update on the issues they are currently facing. Thank you to Ronald Griffith, president of the board, for inviting me to speak.
Prairie Horizon Agri-Energy
I also visited Prairie Horizon Agri-Energy, an ethanol plant outside Phillipsburg, to tour the business and learn more about its contributions to the ethanol industry. Each year, it produces more than 40 million gallons of ethanol which yields 127,000 tons of high protein livestock feed as a byproduct.
While at the plant, it was useful to hear about their plan to construct a new state-of-the-art wheat protein ingredients facility that will create over 60 new jobs. The company plans to retrofit the plant to accommodate wheat-based ethanol production in the future. Once complete, Prairie Horizon will boast the largest wheat protein facility in North America.
Thank you to Plant Manager Kevin Morgan, Chief Operating Officer Steve Adams, Senior Director Kevin Bogenreif and President Justin Kirchhoff for showing me around the plant and discussing the Summit Agricultural Group’s investment plans. This is an exciting time for Prairie Horizon, and I appreciated Kansas State Senator Rick Billinger, Representative Ken Rahjes and local community leader Denis Miller joining us for the tour.
Visiting with High School Students
Buhler
On Monday, I was pleased to spend part of my afternoon with Buhler high schoolers. I greatly appreciated listening to Mr. Bontrager’s freshman choir and speaking with student leaders Jaylee, Kaden and Tanner as they showed me their school.
Chanute
While I was in Chanute on Wednesday, I spoke with students at Chanute High. I enjoyed seeing all aspects of the school, from visiting their greenhouse to stopping into an art class and a biomedical science class. We discussed the importance of career technical education and STEM, and the opportunities for students to start their careers right here in Kansas. Teachers play a vital role in the development of students across our state, and I thank Superintendent Dr. Kellen Adam, Principal Zach Murray and Assistant Principal Tyler Applegate for speaking with me and for the care they put into educating young Kansans. Thank you to student leaders Carson and Emma for showing me their school. Read more about my visit from the Chanute Tribune here.
Touring Medical Facilities Across Kansas
Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center
This week, I was pleased to be at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute to announce new federal investments in its Imaging Department. Over the past year, I’ve worked closely with Neosho Memorial regarding its need for a new nuclear imaging machine, which is important to providing care for cancer patients, as the existing machine reached the end of its life cycle. It was great to be able to be in Chanute to discuss the importance of both a new SPECT nuclear medicine imaging machine and improvements to the Imaging Department wing to accommodate more patients.
Neosho Memorial provides nuclear medicine and essential cancer detection services to its community, and this new life-saving technology and improvements will allow them to continue to do so for years to come. This is a community-driven solution to the barriers to care so often faced by rural Kansans.
Thank you to Neosho Memorial CEO Dennis Franks and Hospital Foundation Director Anna Methvin for the opportunity to be a part of this grand opening ceremony and for your continued efforts to provide health care services to southeast Kansas.
Rice County District Hospital
I also visited Rice County District Hospital. George Stover, CEO of the hospital, walked me through the facility as we discussed the current condition of rural health care. Kansas officially moved from a pandemic response posture to treating the virus as an endemic disease. However, the CMS vaccine mandate has increased administrative burdens, and rural facilities are still struggling with financial stress as a result of the pandemic. I will continue relaying these concerns to the Department of Health and Human Services and working to ensure Kansas hospitals have the support needed to serve their communities. Thank you to Judy Hodgson, George Stover and Terry Pound for their time visiting with me.
Commemorating Brown v. Board of Education Sites
The Senate recently and unanimously passed legislation to commemorate the historic sites that contributed to the 1954 landmark Supreme Court decision, Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. This legislation will expand the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site to include historic sites in South Carolina and designate National Park Service (NPS) Affiliated Areas in other states. It would recognize the importance of the additional sites that catalyzed litigation in Delaware, South Carolina, Kansas, Virginia and the District of Columbia by designating them NPS Affiliated Areas, and expand the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka.
Kansan Linda Brown and her parents took their case all the way to the Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education, leading to the unanimous overturn of the ‘separate but equal’ doctrine that discriminated against school children because of their skin color. I look forward to the President signing this legislation into law to expand and preserve the historic sites in Kansas and around the country connected to this case. Kansas has played a key role in the civil rights movement, and we must seek to preserve this legacy which calls on all Americans to uphold the self-evident truth that all men and women are created equal. The bill text is available here.
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund is a multi-year initiative led by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in partnership with the Ford Foundation, the JPB Foundation, the Open Society Foundations and other partners, working to make an important and lasting contribution to our cultural landscape by elevating the stories and places of African American achievement and activism.
Honoring Veterans Who Helped with Evacuations from Afghanistan
As ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I introduced a resolution honoring the veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and civilian volunteers who organized evacuations during our withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021.
Our military personnel worked tirelessly to coordinate flights in and out of Kabul, but another force behind these efforts lies with groups of veteran volunteers who refused to leave their Afghan partners behind. These volunteer veteran groups shared information, drafted flight manifests and coordinated food and supplies to be delivered to families who were in hiding. Without these volunteers, many Afghan men, women and children would have suffered greatly or lost their life. This week, we offered this resolution to officially recognize and thank the veteran volunteers for their efforts to save their Afghan partners from the clutches of the Taliban. The resolution can be found here.
Demanding Answers on Changes to Border Security Policies
This week, I led 12 of my colleagues in seeking answers from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on recent changes to how the department enforces border security and processes migrants at the southern border. In FY2021, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recorded 1.7 million encounters with individuals attempting to cross the border illegally, the highest single year total ever recorded. Even more troubling is the fact that this year is on pace to far exceed the record-breaking numbers from last year.
This administration’s continued push to weaken our immigration enforcement, through moves like rescinding the Title 42 public health order, de-prioritization of those eligible for arrest and removal and drastically altering how America grants asylum, is reckless and dangerous. Currently, tens of thousands of migrants are gathering at our Southern border and the policies of the Biden administration are only fueling the impending surge, presenting a serious threat to public safety and will lead to an even greater humanitarian crisis. Read my full letter here.
Graham County Listening Tour Stop
I held a listening tour stop in Hill City this week, where I had the opportunity to speak to and hear from Graham County residents. We discussed the importance of supporting our law enforcement community, Putin’s evil in Ukraine and the United States’ humanitarian efforts to help Ukrainian citizens. I heard concerns regarding border security and the administration’s decision to terminate the Title 42 Order, as well as concerns surrounding local nursing home operations. I was also able to announce federal investments in Graham County Sheriff’s Office to update its mobile communications technology and help as they carry out their duties.
Thank you to Jim Logback for his years of support, to those who took time to share their concerns with me and to Cole Presley, Graham County Sheriff and President of the Kansas Sheriff’s Association for being in attendance.
Visit to Kansas City VA Medical Center
On Friday, I visited Kansas City VA Medical Center where I spoke with KCVA Director Jean Gurga and Assistant Director Ryan Locascio. KCVA plays a vital role in the health care of veterans living in and around eastern Kansas and western Missouri, providing service to over 50,000 veterans each year. I expressed my commitment to working on and passing legislation for toxic-exposed veterans. When our men and women are injured or become ill because of their military service, it is our responsibility to see they receive the health care and benefits they deserve. It is the right thing to do and the cost of going to war.
The facility offers a full range of services with state-of-the-art technology as well as education and research. We discussed the research projects KCVA is conducting, the importance of their community-based outpatient clinics and my veterans’ mental health care legislation.
As ranking member of the Senate VA Committee, I am committed to bolstering the quality of care provided to those who have served and sacrificed.
Visiting Prairie View
From City Hall to the businesses along Main Street, thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to speak with me when I stopped into Prairie View this week.
Passover
Happy Passover to the families and friends who gathered for Seders in Kansas and around the world on Friday evening. Chag Pesach Sameach!
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
Shane Walker, 53, is the new Fort Scott City Commissioner, replacing Pete Allen who resigned last month.
Walker is the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Bourbon County.
He has 10 years experience in a corporate setting, five years running his own business and 18 years of local government experience, he said. He has also been a firefighter for 10 years and has served on a regional Homeland Security board through the State of Kansas.
Walker’s education history involves multiple schools and programs mainly in information technology from IBM, Cisco, Sun and Microsoft.
Currently, he is involved in the community as a part of Gunn Park Trails, a volunteer mountain bike trail group; is the local Historic Preservation Association Vice President and is in the Knights of Columbus.
He and his wife have four daughters.
Walker applied for the city commissioner vacancy because he wants to “help make Fort Scott a better place that my kids want to come back to, after college, and live.”
His first meeting as a commissioner was April 5.
The duties of Fort Scott City Commissioners are to set policy, procedures and budgets, he said.
The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 123 S. Main.
