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Category Archives: Government
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
April 30, 2022
The legislature began the 2022 veto session on April 25. It has been an unusual year and the schedule confirms this since the legislature will return May 23 and the final day of session will not be until June. The last day is usually in mid-May. The delayed schedule is a response to the Congressional map being challenged in court.
Sales Tax on Groceries, Conference Committee Report (CCR) 2106, passed the Senate unanimously and the House with super-majority. January 1, 2023, the state sales tax on groceries will decrease from 6.5% to 4%, in 2024 it will decrease to 2%, and in 2025 it will be 0%. The Governor’s plan never cut “sales tax on food”. It was sales tax on groceries. Groceries are to be defined as non-prepared foods with a few quirky items.
My updates do tend to focus on tax. As the Senate Tax Chairman, I have worked diligently to lower taxes in Kansas. Someone in the Capital commented to me that we wouldn’t have passed any tax legislation this year if I would not have been working on it. We have had some major wins this year, including lowering property tax for homeowners. (Hopefully, local governments will not take the savings from you by increasing local taxes.) The Governor took credit for it even though she never worked on it.
The legislature passed a budget that puts over $750 million in reserve. That money should be returned to the taxpayers – Kansans need it with inflation and skyrocketing prices. Let’s cut more taxes by passing CCR 2597. It would remove income tax on Social Security, increase the standard deduction based on inflation, and implement other common-sense tax solutions for Kansans.
Fairness in Women’s Sports, Conference Committee Report (CCR) 160, would have ensured participation in women’s sports is for biological women. For a second year, the Governor vetoed the legislation. The Senate had the votes for an override. However, the House fell three votes short of an override. I supported the legislation and the override. It will be interesting to see how much impact this has on 2022 elections.
The Parents’ Bill of Rights, CCR 58, would have been a first step for addressing Critical Race Theory (CRT), age-appropriate material, and transparency for parents of students attending elementary or secondary school in this state. The Governor vetoed the legislation. The Senate overrode the veto but the House fell short by 12 votes. I had introduced a bill banning CRT and the teaching of inaccurate history. Due to social pressure the bill didn’t even get a hearing. The Parents’ Bill of Rights was the only legislation to pass out of committee this year.
The Governor vetoed Welfare Reform CCR 2448, requiring able-bodied adults without dependents to complete an employment and training program in order to receive food assistance. The House and Senate were able to override this veto. I voted Yes.
A Constitutional Amendment will be on the November 2022 ballot, allowing voters to decide if the Kansas Constitution should be amended to require County Sheriffs to be elected, except for Riley County.
More legislation that passed can be found at www.KSLegislature.org. I’ll include more items in a later update.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
USD234 Superintendent Search Update
April 29, 2022
Message for Stakeholders:
On behalf of the board, we would like to update our stakeholders and staff on the Superintendent Search process, specifically the opportunities for input and feedback on candidates.
The first opportunity was with the online survey, there was an amazing response – thank you. The next opportunity for feedback will occur during the candidate interview process.
There will be two “meet and greet” receptions open to all staff and community members during the candidate’s visit and tour of our district.
On each day of finalist interviews, scheduled for May 10, 11 and/or 12, the district will host public receptions at 4:00 p.m. and again at 5:30 p.m. It is our hope that providing two times on each day will allow staff and community to select the time that best fits their personal and work schedules.
KASB will collect feedback from each of these events and provide the data to the board for consideration. More specific information regarding location and specific dates will be shared as soon as the board determines the number of finalists for interviews.
The USD 234 Board of Education wants to use the opportunities provided through the search process to engage the voices of our staff and patrons in helping us identify the best course forward for our district.
Submitted by
USD 234 Fort Scott Board of Education
Bourbon County Commission Agenda for May 3
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: May 3, 2022
1st District–Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District–Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk–Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
• Justin Meeks, County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
• Public Comment
• Elected Officials Comment
• Commission Comment
Minutes of the April 19 Bourbon County Commission Meeting
April 19, 2022 Tuesday 9:00 am
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Jim Harris, Lynne Oharah
and the County Clerk present.
Anne Dare, Clint Walker, Don Coffman, Matt Crystal, Mark McCoy, Bill Michaud, Rob
Harrington, Lora Holdridge, Annie Clarkson and Bill Martin were present for some or
all of the meeting.
Lynne made a motion to approve the previous meetings minutes. Jim seconded. All
approved.
Eric Bailey presented an entry permit at 2500 Tomahawk for William Pope. Lynne
made a motion to approve the entry permit for William Pope. Jim seconded. All
approved. Eric stated the federal fund exchange amount is $110,072.57. If we do the
buyback through KDOT at 90 cents on the dollar it will be $99,065.32. Jim Harris
signed the agreement. Eric reminded everyone that Thursday is the District 4
meeting at Chanute at 9am. Eric and Dustin Hall will be going. The punch list for
Jayhawk Wind’s Road Use Agreement is complete with punch list. We are in the final
stages of finishing the RUA. Eric said we should have our roads back in our possession
very soon. There is an Open House for Jayhawk Wind for the commissioners to come
meet the operators on Thursday from 3pm to 6pm at the Operations & Maintenance
building. Eric gave a breakdown of the asphalt meeting broke down by district. Gave
a handout of what cost would be. District 3 has no asphalt but would like to do some
preventative maintenance. Lynne asked if it could be cut down between Native &
maple. Dustin stated possibly a little but they wanted to get around both curves as
there is breakdown in the section. Jim stated all districts are important. If money
runs out you have to stop. Justin Meeks stated that Clifton is forgoing asphalt in
District 3 to try to help out the other two districts. Justin also stated that he and Eric
and Susan have discussed the need for a new crusher. Susan stated there is some
federal funding we could go after. Susan had some information on the crusher that
was handed out. Susan stated we would need some monies from the PILOT fund until
some other debt is paid off. We have two years that we have to work with other
funds to pay the note. Justin asked how much of this year’s proposed would have to
be cut to buy the crusher? Dustin stated between $100,000.00 to $150,000.00
depending on what total price is. Susan stated the other thing we need to think
about is so far we have done 3 blasts which is about $120,000.00. To do 4 blasts it’s
going to be $160,000.00. That will be $40,000.00 per year for blast #4. You’re going
to have $80,000.00 for 2 additional blasts so that we can make enough rock. There is
going to be about $136,000.00 per year in expenses to make enough rock and pay for
the blasts. Jim asked Eric about federal funding. Eric stated $60,000.00 has to go for
the bridge on Fern Rd. Susan stated that there are some projects we can after for
funding. The project at Elm Creek dam would qualify so we need to dig into some of
the grants. Lynne made a motion to move Eric Bailey to the end of the meeting after
commissioner comments giving them time to come up with hard numbers on crusher.
Jim seconded. All approved.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Jim Harris, Lynne Oharah
and the County Clerk present.
Anne Dare, Clint Walker, Don Coffman, Matt Crystal, Mark McCoy, Bill Michaud, Rob
Harrington, Lora Holdridge, Annie Clarkson and Bill Martin were present for some or
all of the meeting.
Lynne made a motion to approve the previous meetings minutes. Jim seconded. All
approved.
Eric Bailey presented an entry permit at 2500 Tomahawk for William Pope. Lynne
made a motion to approve the entry permit for William Pope. Jim seconded. All
approved. Eric stated the federal fund exchange amount is $110,072.57. If we do the
buyback through KDOT at 90 cents on the dollar it will be $99,065.32. Jim Harris
signed the agreement. Eric reminded everyone that Thursday is the District 4
meeting at Chanute at 9am. Eric and Dustin Hall will be going. The punch list for
Jayhawk Wind’s Road Use Agreement is complete with punch list. We are in the final
stages of finishing the RUA. Eric said we should have our roads back in our possession
very soon. There is an Open House for Jayhawk Wind for the commissioners to come
meet the operators on Thursday from 3pm to 6pm at the Operations & Maintenance
building. Eric gave a breakdown of the asphalt meeting broke down by district. Gave
a handout of what cost would be. District 3 has no asphalt but would like to do some
preventative maintenance. Lynne asked if it could be cut down between Native &
maple. Dustin stated possibly a little but they wanted to get around both curves as
there is breakdown in the section. Jim stated all districts are important. If money
runs out you have to stop. Justin Meeks stated that Clifton is forgoing asphalt in
District 3 to try to help out the other two districts. Justin also stated that he and Eric
and Susan have discussed the need for a new crusher. Susan stated there is some
federal funding we could go after. Susan had some information on the crusher that
was handed out. Susan stated we would need some monies from the PILOT fund until
some other debt is paid off. We have two years that we have to work with other
funds to pay the note. Justin asked how much of this year’s proposed would have to
be cut to buy the crusher? Dustin stated between $100,000.00 to $150,000.00
depending on what total price is. Susan stated the other thing we need to think
about is so far we have done 3 blasts which is about $120,000.00. To do 4 blasts it’s
going to be $160,000.00. That will be $40,000.00 per year for blast #4. You’re going
to have $80,000.00 for 2 additional blasts so that we can make enough rock. There is
going to be about $136,000.00 per year in expenses to make enough rock and pay for
the blasts. Jim asked Eric about federal funding. Eric stated $60,000.00 has to go for
the bridge on Fern Rd. Susan stated that there are some projects we can after for
funding. The project at Elm Creek dam would qualify so we need to dig into some of
the grants. Lynne made a motion to move Eric Bailey to the end of the meeting after
commissioner comments giving them time to come up with hard numbers on crusher.
Jim seconded. All approved.
Lora Holdridge stated that Caleb Chaplin and they are going to request a road closing
at Pawnee. We noticed there is another land owner that owns all the other land to
the south and they own everything. Could we contact Mr. Callow who owns the
property and ask if we could vacate to save money? Jim said yes.
Bill Martin stated they are part of the Federal Forfeiture group and they are required
to send in an annual certification report to make sure that the funds we get from
Federal Forfeiture Funds are reported properly. The report states no money has been
spent as of now. Lynne Oharah made a motion to allow Jim Harris to sign this
agreement. Jim seconded. All approved.
Justin Meeks requested an executive session for attorney client privilege. Lynne
made a motion for an executive session for 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 including 2 commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin Meeks
for 4 minutes returning at 9:43am. Jim seconded. All approved. Lynne made a
motion to return to normal session at 9:43am with no action. Jim seconded. All
approved.
Justin Meeks stated that 2 weeks ago there was discussion regarding Elm Creek Lake
with regards to a public/private partnership. We have some ground work to do on
getting bids to fix up the exterior of the 3 structures – The main lodge and two cabins.
The idea of the public/private partnership is to have help being the managers of like
an Airbnb. Eric is planning to drain the lake in early fall and it will be empty for quite
some time in order to repair the dam. This would be the perfect time to explore the
partnership. Now that we have Rob and Susan on board and with Shane’s expertise
with historical preservation we can maybe at the end of May to go out for bid to see
who would be interested in helping us with this public/private partnership. Looking
at having canoe rentals, RV hookups, getting water to the three structures. The
public/private partnership would manage it. There would be a 60/40 split of profits –
40% to the county and 60% to them. Discuss next week the bid process.
Susan did a 5 year comparison and a 2021 year in review for Public Works. We are
going to start implementing this into our budget document for every department. To
show people where we have been and what we have accomplished. We are going to
add projected projects for 2023. One of the things I want to highlight is the fueling
station. We are getting our gas about 40 cents cheaper. Most of the departments are
taking advantage of that. I want to praise those who are trying to keep costs down as
much as we can and that’s where departments are working together to do that. We
had a problem in the landfill last year but have recovered. Susan stated that
financials aren’t balanced and we are working through that this week. I’ve notified
the treasurer that we have about $20,000.00 variance and so we are working through
that. Susan requested an executive session for proprietary. Lynne 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 for
10 minutes including Rob Harrington, Shane Walker, Justin Meeks, Susan Bancroft and
2 commissioners returning at 10:10am. Jim seconded. All approved. Lynne made a
motion to return to normal session at 10:10am with no action. Jim seconded. All
approved.
Public Comment: Bill Michaud requested that the county consider a transient guest
tax in the county. Anne Dare asked if Elm Creek Lake was a WPA project? Lynne
stated that the entirety of Elm Creek Lake was a WPA project. She wants to make
certain that research is done so that we are in compliance as this project is ongoing.
Susan stated that we have a CFAP program out there. We’ve got to make sure we are
standing up to that agreement. Anne asked about the crusher and grants that will be
requested for other Road & Bridge projects. The county was turned down for a base
grant and it’s been on the news that several cities in the area did receive one.
What’s going to change that will give us a better chance of getting one? Is there
anything in the works to give us a better chance? Susan stated that yes from the
financial perspective. There is oversight and we are doing better in meeting our
deadlines. We can’t change past violations and when we submit a grant application
we are asked to submit our audit from previous years. It will take us two or three
years to get out of that cycle. Not all grants ask for that information, most federal
grants do. Anne asked if it is helpful that we are implementing internal controls?
Susan stated yes. Anne asked if there have been internal controls in the past? Susan
stated yes. Rob Harrington called to ask about the base grant that we didn’t receive.
There were several grant requests within Bourbon County and none of them were
granted. Twenty grants got a perfect score and underneath that 33 grants tied for
sub-perfect scores. They stated we were very close. There is an opportunity to write
a letter and ask that a second round of base grants be opened. A lot of the grants
went to Johnson and Sedgwick County. Those grants will touch a lot more people
being larger counties. One was a $10 million dollar grant in Johnson County for a
development up there. The Topeka Zoo got 3 million. Another project received 7.9
million. Tie breakers on grants are usually letters of support. If you think it’s a great
project to write a letter of support. Jim responded to Anne’s comments on Elm Creek
that there would be a lot of discussion and public involvement before anything is
done. Mark McCoy stated that he is no longer a city employee. While employed by
the city I made a personal commitment to the city commissioners that I was 100%
committed to them and would limit my contact with the county. I am once again in a
volunteer capacity at the county working with Emergency Management. He said that
he would like to reiterate what Bill Michaud said in that he would like to see a county-
wide transient tax. Mark also stated that he would not be in alignment to renting the
Elm Creek cabins for a month. I don’t think you want to do a long term stay. Susan
stated that after a certain period of time the transient tax runs out. Mark stated he
believed it to be at 28 days. Bill Michaud confirmed that to be correct. Mark
mentioned that the county website needed to be updated. Ashley stated that Shane
Walker has been working with Mat Casner to update the site and changes will be
coming. Mark stated that he has been asked to come onboard with Bourbon County
REDI as the Small Business Coordinator and have accepted. I’m happy to volunteer.
It’s the right thing to do. Mark stated this is a very busy week for Bourbon County.
There is a bicycle race, a mud race and civil war reenactment and ball games are
starting up. St. Mary’s Gala is this weekend as well. Don Coffman stated Old 69
North (215th) is in bad shape. Jim stated that it is on Clifton’s list. Don stated that it
might just need a surface coat. Jim stated that it is on Eric’s maintenance list.
Elected Official Comment: Ashley stated that she and Doretta would be going to
Election training the next two days. We hope to learn a lot. No cost for the session.
She stated that she is looking into new election equipment.
Commission Comment: Jim asked Susan to look into what it would take to implement
the transient tax in the county.
Eric reported on information that he received on the crusher. He got a hard number
for the price of the crusher. He checked with another company and it would be a
year before we could get what we needed. A new crusher would be far more than
what we were projecting. Susan stated that Sourcewell, for equipment and services,
will do their competitive bidding. They get the best possible lowest dollar product so
that cities and counties are not having to spend all their time doing requests for
quotes. Susan asked if the commission chooses to go down this road is for her to have
permission to get with the local banks for lease purchase agreements and have them
bid on that. Lynne made a motion to purchase the used crusher MR130 Crusher and
953 Screen Plant for $1.356 million which will be paid for with a combination of Road
& Bridge Funds, Hard Surface Road funds and PILOT money for down payments and
Susan will reach out to local banks for financing of remainder of the balance. Jim
seconded. All approved. Susan stated this is a 10-year lease purchase. Anne Dare
asked where the machine would be coming from. Dustin Hall responded from Murphy
Tractor. Jim stated that 215th off Indian going south to 39th needs to be completed.
The lake road needs some work. Do what you can. Dustin Hall stated they are hoping
sales tax will be high again this year and maybe will have enough to care of all of it.
Lynne Oharah made a motion to approve the asphalt program Eric provided as well as
use Onyx for 5 miles as a test. Eric has discretion to trim projects to lower cost to get
new crusher. Jim stated to be very selective where they trim. Jim seconded. All
approved.
Lynne made a motion to adjourn at 10:57am. Jim seconded. All approved.
USD 234 Special Board Meeting on April 29
There will be a special board meeting of the USD234 Board of Education on April 29 at 5 p.m. at the board office.
1. Open the meeting
2. Flag Salute
3. KanAWARE Grant Participation
4. Superintendent Search
5. Executive Session to discuss personnel matters for nonelected personnel
6. Consider employment
7. Adjourn
FS Commissioners Meet in Special Meeting Today at 5 p.m.
There will be a Special Meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission held at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 28th, 2022. This meeting will be held for the City Commission to recess into Executive Session.
This meeting will be held at 123 S. Main Street in the City Commission meeting room and will be broadcast on the City’s you tube channel. This meeting is open to the public. The Executive Session is not open to the public.
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Weekly Newsletter
Aviation Leaders in Wichita
Welcoming Bombardier’s new HQ to Wichita!
On Tuesday, I joined local and state officials to welcome Bombardier’s United States headquarters and launch Bombardier Defense in Kansas. This is an exciting new chapter for both Bombardier and the ‘Air Capital of the World,’ and this selection is a testament to the highly-skilled, dedicated and successful workforce we have here in Kansas.
Bombardier has been a part of Wichita since the early-1960s, and this site was originally dedicated to manufacturing the Learjet. Today, Bombardier Defense is instrumental in this new generation of defense capabilities to protect Americans from foes around the world. Bombardier’s long-standing partnership with the Air Force and Army exemplifies the understanding of our military’s urgent operational needs, and as Bombardier Defense collaborates with our NATO partners and ally countries, I anticipate much of that work coming back home to Kansas.
Thank you to Bombardier CEO Eric Martel, Head of U.S. Strategy Tonya Sudduth and Chief Engineer Mr. Michel Ouellette. Thank you to FAA Deputy Administrator Bradley Mims for coming to Wichita for the event, and to MG Michael Schmidt, U.S. Space Force Program Executive Officer at Hanscom Air Force Base, for his service and for accepting my invitation. Kansas stands ready to partner with Bombardier as they tackle new projects and challenges in the years ahead.
FAA Deputy Administrator Bradley Mims in the Air Capital of the World
I also visited Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) WERX Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility with FAA Deputy Administrator Bradley Mims in Wichita. Located in a hangar adjacent to McConnell AFB that once housed Boeing Air Force One modification facilities, the MRO team at NIAR WERX provides production design, initial and Supplemental Type Certification, instrumentation installation, modifications and field support and repair. During our tour we discussed my advanced air mobility (AAM) legislation, a bill that would facilitate collaboration between federal agencies and civil aviation industry leaders when developing policies regarding AAM. As there are many new companies within this emerging industry, this legislation will work to ensure folks are operating on the same page and moving the industry forward so the U.S. can remain competitive.
Special thanks to Dr. John Tomblin and his team for hosting our visit. Thank you also to Salina Airport Director Tim Rogers, Kansas Director of Aviation Bob Brock, Kansas Modification Partner Dave Murfin and WSU Tech President Dr. Sheree Utash for joining us.
Announcing Federal Investments Across Kansas
Hays
On Friday, I joined Fort Hays State University (FHSU) to celebrate the $1.2 million grant they received from the National Science Foundation. I was pleased to announce this grant last month which will support the university’s efforts to recruit and prepare STEM teachers to work in rural areas with a high need for educators. Effective and passionate teachers play an important role in inspiring young people to pursue careers in STEM, and these fields are critical to American competitiveness on the global stage. This federal grant will increase the number of science teachers equipped to teach in Kansas’ rural school districts, while also contributing to national research on how to better train educators to serve in rural America. I have been a longtime supporter of STEM education, and this federal grant will contribute to making certain more of our next generation of engineers, scientists and technology professionals call rural Kansas home. Thank you to FHSU President Tisa Mason and College of Education Dean Dr. Paul Adams for inviting me to join in this celebration. Most importantly, thank you to FHSU’s dedicated faculty who are cultivating the next generation of STEM educators.
Garden City
I was in Garden City on Wednesday to be with the Area Chamber of Commerce to share my appreciation for how they continue to further Garden City’s economic and community goals, and discuss some of the issues chamber members and many Americans are currently facing. These topics included steep inflation, rising agriculture input costs, workforce retention issues and immigration policy concerns.
I was also able to announce a federal investment in the Garden City Police Department that will support its officers as they protect the Finney County community. The department will use this investment to acquire mobile backup 911 services and the compatible communication technology, which provides a secondary option of communication for first responders during an emergency situation where the main 911 dispatch is inoperable. Additionally, the mobility of the backup services provides Garden City the capability to assist other departments if their system goes down.
Thank you to Chamber President Myca Bunch, Police Chief Courtney Prewitt, Fire Chief Jon Irsik, City Manager Matt Allen and Rep. Dr. Bill Clifford, and to all those who allowed me to speak.
Concordia
On Monday, I was in Concordia where I announced a federal investment in the Concordia Police Department that will support its officers as they protect the Cloud County community. These funds assist the department in updating the public safety communications network used by public safety departments and first responders across the county, like police, fire and EMS. Effective and reliable communication is a must to maintain public safety, but updating these systems can be very expensive and difficult for rural areas to access. As the lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations subcommittee which funds the Department of Justice, I will continue to work to support our law enforcement officers. I look forward to working with Chief Fredrickson and law enforcement leaders across the state in the future to bring tools back to Kansas.
Thank you to the Concordia Police Department, Police Chief Fredrickson and Officer Ingle, as well as to Concordia Mayor Ashley Hutchinson, City Manager Amy Lange, Cloud County Community College President Amber Knoettgen, Tom and Suzy Tuggle and Dana Brewer for joining me.
Lawrence
Thursday afternoon I was in Lawrence to announce a new federal investment from the Small Business Administration for the KU Innovation Park. This investment will help equip a Good Manufacturing Practices laboratory, which local pharmaceutical companies can utilize to meet federal regulations during research and production. A number of local drug-development companies will benefit from this facility, and it will serve to enhance the economic growth of the region as companies grow skilled jobs and scale operations.
As the pandemic demonstrated, the ability to quickly develop and test pharmaceuticals is essential to remaining prepared and healthy. This development by the KU Innovation Park will position northeast Kansas to be a go-to location for companies looking to develop commercially viable products that can help our state, nation and world.
Thank you to KU Chancellor Doug Girod and Executive Chair of KU Innovation Park Laverne Epp for allowing me to join you for this exciting announcement, as well as the local officials from KU, Lawrence and Douglas County for being in attendance. Through my role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue to work to bring federal resources back home to benefit our state. Read more here from the Lawrence-Journal World.
USD 298
This week, I visited Lincoln Junior-Senior High School to announce an investment in USD 298. Last year, USD 298 expressed its need for technological upgrades, and I worked to secure the necessary resources for those improvements to be completed. Under the USD 298 Technology Upgrade project, the district will now be able to purchase interactive smartboards. The new smartboards will support a technology-driven educational experience for students. I look forward to seeing how they use this technology to better educate students and prepare them for their future.
After the announcement, I visited Lincoln Elementary where I was able to meet Julia, an incredible fourth-grader. Last year, Lincoln Elementary students were challenged to do “500 acts of kindness” and Julia decided to write me a thank you note, which evolved into writing 140 thank you notes to every U.S. Senator, along with other federal and state public officials. Her dedicated efforts to promote kindness in her community and nation are admirable, and I was glad to have the opportunity to thank Julia in person.
It’s Time to Open the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine Without Delay
This week, I called on Secretary of State Antony Blinken to re-open the United States embassy in Kyiv. With Ukraine’s successful defense of its capital and the withdrawal of Russian forces from areas surrounding the city, returning to full operations will enhance cooperation with a democratic partner and symbolically affirm our nation’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity. I was joined in this call by Senator Steve Daines, and while we recognize that the danger to Kyiv has not subsided and we share concerns for the safety of our embassy personnel, the United States historically has maintained embassies in nations at war, including those capitals under direct attack.
More than 15 European allies have reopened their embassies in Ukraine, and our failure to do so signals a lack of confidence in Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. Resuming embassy operations will reinforce the importance of diplomacy and America’s full support for a Ukraine whole and free. Senator Daines and I asked Secretary Blinken for a response detailing plans for staffing our embassy in Kyiv, including the conditions necessary to restore an embassy presence at pre-war levels. Read our full letter to Secretary Blinken here.
Read more from Fox News here.
Welcoming Heat Biologics to Kansas
On Monday morning, I was pleased to take part in welcoming Heat Biologics to Kansas. Over the next seven years, Heat Biologics will build a new 500,000 square foot biomanufacturing facility, and this $650 million investment project will create 500 new, high-paying jobs in the Manhattan area.
The COVID-19 pandemic has uniquely demonstrated how essential the advancement of biologics and biotechnology is to our country. Advancement is not simply a matter of preparedness but also one of strengthening the autonomy of our domestic supply chains and our national security. Access to medical research and biopharmaceutical opportunities is essential to ensuring Kansans stay close to home, and it shows companies of all industries that Kansas is open for business and would welcome them to our state.
Along with the research work being done at K-State and NBAF, the opening of Project Life will allow us to expand Kansas’ biopharmaceutical abilities. I appreciated the opportunity to join Manhattan Mayor Linda Morse, Chamber CEO Jason Smith, KBOR Chair Cheryl Harrison-Lee, K-State President Dr. Rich Linton, Governor Laura Kelly and Lt. Gov. Toland, and Heat Biologics CEO Jeff Wolf in Manhattan, and I look forward to supporting Heat Biologics and Project Life as they make Kansas their new home.
Recap! Astronaut Janet Kavandi’s Visit to the Cosmosphere
Kansas is home to educational institutions and programs that promote science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. And at a time when our country needs more young people interested in STEM education and entering the STEM workforce, I was happy to host astronaut and current president of Sierra Space Corporation Dr. Janet Kavandi in Hutchinson at the Cosmosphere earlier this month to speak with grade school students about her experiences in space and her present leadership in commercial space exploration. Watch a recap here from the Cosmosphere as we look to inspire the next generation.
Touring North Central Kansas Medical Center Construction
This week, I visited Concordia to view the construction progress of the new North Central Kansas Medical Center. The new medical center will be providing 14 in-patient beds, an emergency department, surgery space and specific clinic services to the Cloud County community and surrounding areas. With construction of the new facility 50 percent complete, the project is on track to open this fall. The partnership between Cloud County Community Hospital and Salina Regional Health Center, as well as a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, of which I am an appropriator, is making the expansion of health care services in Cloud County possible and will benefit local Kansans.
Thank you to Joel Phelps, Joe Tallon, Dr. Rob Freelove, Dave Garnas, Ashley Hutchinson, and Phil and Brenda Gilliland for providing me with the update on their work to ensure the community has local access to health care.
Participating in the Hunter’s Glen Groundbreaking in Garden City
On Wednesday, I was pleased to be a part of the groundbreaking at Hunter’s Glen. This project will bring 192 housing units to Garden City and will fill crucial workforce housing needs for the community by primarily housing farm laborers for the surrounding area, providing direct loans or grants to finance affordable, off-farm rental housing to low-wage farm workers. I have long been a supporter of increasing the affordability and availability of housing for those who work our land, and I look forward to seeing this project complete to benefit Kansas’ ag workforce in the coming years.
Thank you to Garden City, USDA Regional Director Karissa Stiers, Finney County Economic Development Corp Lona DuVall and Oikos Development Corporation Owner Michael Snodgrass.
Speaking with Civic Clubs
West Wichita Rotary
On Tuesday, I spoke at the West Wichita Rotary Club. Civic clubs foster the quality of life in Kansas communities, and I am appreciative of how civic club members make it a priority to enhance the ties between friends and neighbors—they preserve Kansas’ special way of life. I was pleased to learn how West Wichita Rotarians are doing their part to support their neighbors, including collecting and distributing groceries to struggling families. As the co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, I look for ways to draw attention and secure resources to hunger issues at home and around the globe, but the most meaningful difference is made by neighbors helping neighbors. Thank you to Club President Randy Bowles for his leadership and kind introduction, member Mark Hansen for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and Club Executive Secretary Diane Walker for allowing me to speak with members yesterday.
Dodge City Kiwanis
On Wednesday, I spoke with Kiwanis in Dodge City where members shared some of their concerns with me. We discussed an all-of-the-above approach to energy production, continuing to increase domestic oil and gas production in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, ag inputs and profitability, eliminating tariffs on phosphates to lower input costs and supply chain and workforce issues. Congress failed to turn the COVID spending spigot off quickly enough, and the decades-high inflation people across the county and in rural areas such as southwest Kansas are encountering is a result of too much federal spending.
Thank you to Pat Morris, Judge Van Hampton, Nick Hernandez, Ernestor De La Rosa, J.D. Gilbert, Shawn Fletcher, Chris Boys, Brad Ralph and Joann Knight for their time and thoughts. The presence of active civic clubs across our state is what makes Kansas’ sense of community so strong.
Seeking Information Regarding Hiring Process at Haskell
Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence is an important institution for educating young Native Americans from all over the country. Since May of 2021, the school has been led by an acting president, Dr. Tamarah Pfeiffer. This week, I wrote Bureau of Indian Education Director Tony Dearman seeking to learn more on the hiring process and expected timeline for naming Dr. Pfeiffer’s permanent replacement. It is essential for the school to have stable leadership to meet the needs of its current and future students by developing and executing a long-term vision for the university.
Following my correspondence, I also had a phone conversation with Director Dearman, and I appreciate his attention to the matter. I was informed that a hire has been made, and I look forward to the public announcement soon. As a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, rarely do I have a conversation with tribal leaders throughout the country in which a connection to Haskell is not raised. I am eager to resume exploring and, if possible, helping to facilitate several initiatives the school has raised with my office under previous leadership. Read the full letter here and learn more here from the Lawrence-Journal World.
Discussing Dairy in SWK
On Wednesday, I met with local officials ahead of the completion of the new Hilmar Cheese Company facility in Dodge City next year. Our conversation focused on investments they are making in housing, childcare and local infrastructure to prepare for the hundreds of new jobs that will be created in the area. The opening of the Hilmar facility will significantly expand Kansas’ footprint in the dairy industry – an industry that has been quickly growing in southwest region of our state recent years. Kansas is one of the fastest-growing dairy states in the U.S.
Thank you to Dodge City Mayor Kent Smoll, City Manager Nick Hernandez, Assistant City Manager Ernestor De La Rosa, Ford County Economic Development Director Joann Knight and Kansas Rep. Brad Ralph for taking the time to update me and discuss how I can be of further help to the region.
Visiting Beverly
Enjoyed walking Main Street on Friday in Beverly. Thanks for all the Kansans who stopped to say hello and speak with me.
Speaking with GSCAA Leaders
On Thursday, while in Lawrence, I stopped by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America headquarters and spoke with CEO J. Rhett Evans and COO Bob Randquist. Each year the GCSAA members visit me in Washington, D.C. for National Golf Day, and I enjoyed the opportunity to visit them on their home turf. The golf industry provides an important source of sport and recreation for Kansans of all ages.
Fort Scott Tourism Board Meets April 26
The Tourism Advisory Board will meet on Tuesday, April 26th, 2022 at 4:00 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.
Input Desired on Next USD234 Superintendent
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USD 234 Special Board of Education Meeting April 27
USD 234 Special Board Meeting
April 27 – 4:45 p.m.
1. Open the meeting
2. Flag salute
3. Presentation of KASB Superintendent Search Survey
4. Executive Session – to discuss employment matters for nonelected personnel
5. Consider employment
6. Adjourn
Helping Resolve Cases of Unsolved Crimes
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.”