The minutes are unapproved until the next meeting.
Council Meeting on March 8, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger (7:05), Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Rachel Carpenter, Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, Raymond “Skeet” George, Uniontown Ruritan, Arlie Bess, Mauriel Whisenhunt, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Rachel Carpenter, Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, gave an explanation of the Placemaking Pathway. Adding outdoor exercise equipment, public restrooms, pickleball court, etc would be projects that could be partially funded with a pathway grant; however, in order to qualify for a grant a pledge would have to be signed.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 3-2 (Esslinger, Stewart) to sign the Pathways to a Healthy Community Pledge Placemaking Package with Sally Johnson as contact person and submit to Healthy Bourbon County Action Team
CITIZENS REQUEST
Raymond “Skeet” George, Ruritan – asked about the Ruritan funding a public bathroom in or near the park. He presented a sketch and ideas were discussed. He asked that the City apply for a REDI grant for the project. He will work with an engineer to get some cost estimates.
Arlie Bess – had questions about the discussion the Council has been having on storage containers. He has two and wanted to know if he would have to get rid of them. Discussions are preliminary but if an ordinance was passed, his containers would be grandfathered in.
Mauriel Whisenhunt – had questions about the discussion the Council has been having on citywide trash service. She has a house and a business, would she have to pay for two trash service fees? Discussions are preliminary, but that is a good question and will be considered in future discussions.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger presented the February Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $361,861.00, Receipts $50,364.54, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $60,806.42, Checking Account Closing Balance $338,643.12. Bank Statement Balance $353,490.41, including Checking Account Interest of $27.26, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $14,847.29, Reconciled Balance $338,643.12. 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 $415,619.39. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $55.71, and Utility CDs $74.84 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $130.55. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; and from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500, Total Transfers of $12,776.00. Net Loss for the month of February $23,217.88, Year-to-Date Net Income $14,899.62. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $17,272.29 (16.4%), Expenditures $18,274.04 (14.0%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $5,470.50 (15.3%), Expenditures $8,504.42 (20.7%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $29,400.22 (21.1%), Expenditures $19,466.90 (7.9%); General Fund YTD Revenue $38,577.30 (30.0%), Expenditures $22,785.51 (13.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $1,784.86 (26.1%), Expenditures $397.28 (3.7%). The March 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $22,828.49 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
Minutes of February 8, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
Superintendent Rich asked for permission to get a dumpster to remove the storage building at 112 Second St and to clean up those two lots.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to allow Bobby Rich to get what is needed to remove the storage building and clean up the lots at 112 Second St
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan was absent so discussion on shipping/storage containers, accessory/storage buildings, fences regulations and citywide solid waste was tabled until next month.
Clerk Johnson informed the Council that KDHE is soliciting for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects to fund.
The legal bills for the transfer of 105 Third St have been received. She asked for clarification of what was to be billed to the buyer and what was the City’s responsibility. The amount to bill to the buyer is $76.
She reminded the Council that League of Kansas Municipalities’ Governing Body Institute & Mayors Conference is April 29-30 at Manhattan
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – asked about spring citywide cleanup. After discussion
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0 to schedule a spring citywide cleanup for April 25-29 with dumpsters picked up when filled and the number of dumpsters to be determined by current cost
Councilwoman Kelly – was approached about someone wanting to purchase a corner lot to put an RV on to live in until something could be built. They were encouraged to attend a council meeting to present their request. The City does not allow people to live in RVs.
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – wants another rabies clinic. Clerk Johnson will contact Marmaton Valley Vet Clinic to get one scheduled. If after March 31, those attending will not be charged a late fee for registration.
OLD BUSINESS
Wholesale water supply – Rate ordinances were acquired from City of Fort Scott for 2013 to present. Rate ordinances for the same period were requested from Bourbon County Consolidated Rural Water District #2 but not received yet. Councilman Ervin has worked up some figures but forgot to bring them. The discussion will continue next month.
Pond Improvement Project – USD 235 asked if we were still planning to use the rock piled north of the pond and were told yes. The rest of the project will be completed in the summer. Clerk Johnson was reminded to order fish food.
City Utility Low-Interest Loan update – A couple more have paid in full. We may be able to pay an additional $10,000 back in a couple more months.
American Rescue Plan Act update – Clerk Johnson stated that the first report required by Treasury is due April 30, 2022. She is attending webinars on compliance and how to complete required documentation.
Street Repair – Increases in oil prices may increase the cost of asphalt. We may not be able to complete as much as we initially thought. Discussion will continue next month. The Bourbon County Commission will hold their March 22, 2022 commission meeting at Uniontown Community Center. If the councilmembers plan to attend a notice will have to be posted, that they may be there but not to conduct city business. Public Works Director Bailey has contacted Councilmember Kelly to attend the next commission meeting to discuss the resurfacing of Maple Road from Uniontown to Bronson.
NEW BUSINESS
Special Event CMB License-Union Station – they are the weigh-in location for the fishing tournament and would like to be able to allow anglers to consume on premises during the tournament, May 28, from 6AM to 11:59PM.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0 to approve the Special Event CMB License for Union Station for May 28, 2022, 6AM to 11:59PM
City Sewer at Union Station – they asked if it was a possibility. After discussion, the Council consensus is not at this time.
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 performance and applicants of non-elected personnel positions, the open meeting to resume at 8:45
Johnson called in at 8:43, out at 8:44. Meeting resumed at 8:45.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0-1 (Ervin abstain) to hire Ginger Ervin for cleaning/water sampling position, cleaning will be $10/hour, water sampling will be $3/sample
Governor Laura Kelly Announces $13.2 Million Awarded for Public Transit Projects Across Kansas
SALINA – Governor Laura Kelly, joined by Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Administrator Nuria Fernandez and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz, announced $13.2 million will go toward 48 public transit projects across the state.
“A strong, safe public transportation system is critical to our state’s economy and quality of life,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Projects like wheelchair accessible busses, upgraded bus facilities, and route and parking lot enhancements will ensure Kansans have access to adequate, safe, and well-maintained public transportation.”
That money will go to 26 transit agencies as part of the Access, Innovation, and Collaboration (AIC) Public Transit Program.
The announcement took place at the OCCK, Inc., Transportation complex in Salina in an expanded bus facility funded by the Kansas Department of Transportation and an FTA grant, with support from the City of Salina and OCCK. The 16,000 square-foot expansion was completed in November 2021.
“This work reflects the tremendous partnership between all levels of government,” FTA Administrator Fernandezsaid. “In addition to funding new bus facilities and improving transit service, the grants support the purchase of low- or no-emission buses. That work throughout Kansas will accelerate the transition to cleaner, more efficient transportation system, and help keep our skies blue, our water clean and our climate more predictable by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
Both urban and rural transit providers receive support from the AIC program, which will improve transit access and services for Kansans. The projects have a total cost of about $17M, with the AIC program providing about $13M ($2M state, $11M federal) of the funds.
In the first two years of the AIC program, KDOT will have awarded $21 million in funding for a total project cost of $26 million.
“The AIC Public Transit Program combines state and federal resources that will enhance access to transit, invest in emerging technologies and form collaborations with public and private transportation providers,” Secretary Lorenz said. “I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve established to improve transportation services and options for Kansans.”
Project types include constructing bus maintenance facilities to aid in fleet management, upgraded transit accessibility following the Americans with Disabilities Act, advanced technologies, and expanded low emissions transit operations.
A map of AIC Transit projects can be found here.
Below, is a list of the AIC Kansas 2022 Selected Projects:
Access, Innovation and CollaborationKansas 2022 Selected Projects
Project Sponsor
Project Title
Award
Butler County Department on Aging
Technology Upgrade
$1,552
Community Health Center (CHC) – Southeast Kansas (SEK) in Crawford County
Regional Transportation Facility for SEK
$1,043,802
City of Liberal
Transit Program Signage
$172,800
City of Wilson
Bus Facility
$40,000
Clay County Task Force
New Bus for Clay County
$63,000
COF Training Services, Inc. in Franklin County
2021 Bus Replacement
$51,746
Coffey County Transportation
Bus and Bus Facility Improvements
$25,600
Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, Inc. (DSNWK) in Ellis County
8-Passenger Bus w/ 4-Wheelchair Capacity
$71,702
Building & Equipment Updates
$87,412
Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency (FHATA) – serving Riley, Pottawatomie and Geary counties
Safety & Security Upgrades to FHATA Facility
$20,000
Covered Bus Parking Lot at the FHATA Facility
$57,750
Junction City Regional Transit Facility
$900,000
K-18 Connector Expansion
$370,980
Junction City Fixed Route Bridge Funding
$157,500
Real Time Passenger Information Devices
$9,600
Microtransit Study
$54,000
Zero Emissions Vehicle Study
$20,000
Futures Unlimited – Sumner County
Transportation Facility Renovation
$221,060
Hetlinger Developmental Services – Lyon County
Three-Stall Bus Barn
$81,865
Johnson County Transit
EV Micro Transit Service
$374,526
Technology Improvements for RideKC
$382,500
Lawrence Transit
Equitable & Accessible Bus Stops
$122,040
Multimodal Transfer Facility Elements
$1,624,000
Microtransit Pilot
$124,000
Zero-Emissions Transition Plan
$120,000
Technology, Accessibility and Branding Enhancements
$676,448
Lyon County Transportation (LCAT)
Security Camera Expansion
$12,000
Leavenworth County
Secure Parking Area for Transit Vehicles
$525,000
Morris County
Public Transportation Facility
$507,465
Northeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging – Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, Marshall, Nemaha and Washington counties
Clean Technology Expansion
$234,509
OCCK, Inc. – Saline, Dickinson, Ellsworth, Cloud, Ottawa, Republic, Mitchel, Jewell and Lincoln counties
Mobility Hubs & Stop Improvement
$84,600
Second Floor Renovation
$270,316
81 Connection Expansion (Saturdays)
$54,812
CityGo+ – Microtransit Pilot in Salina
$250,400
Fixed Route Enhancements – Software & Bus Equipment
$570,769
Osage County
New Vehicles
$222,400
Rooks County
Bus Garage Project
$620,928
Sedgwick County Department on Aging
Vehicle Camera Systems
$32,000
Southeast Kansas Community Action Program (SEK-CAP) – Crawford and Neosho counties
Innovative Scheduling
$103,437
Solomon Valley Transportation – Jewell, Mitchell and Osborne counties
Building Project
$1,484,290
The Guidance Center – Leavenworth
Transit Technology Implementation
$25,747
Unified Government Transit
Bus Facility Modernization
$431,778
Fleet Modernization
$271,440
Paratransit Software Enhancements
$16,560
Accident Incident Management System
$15,300
Micro Transit Expansion
$394,144
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Pilot Program
The City of Fort Scott Street Department will be closing Cooper Street from East National Avenue to 20th Street starting Thursday, April 7th, 2022 at 7:00 a.m. until further notice to repair the street.
Should you have any questions, call City Hall at 620-223-0550.
We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience during this time.
It was an intense week in the Kansas Legislature, ending on April Fool’s Day. It turned out the joke was on legislators who had worked diligently just to be shut down. Friday around 1:30 am, the House Majority Leader made a motion to adjourn until April 25th at 11 am. – leaving several items to be addressed in Veto Session, including removing state sales tax on food, K-12 funding, and other issues. The Senate President worked diligently to complete our work in regular session and not leave it to do in Veto Session. I applaud his efforts and did what I could to support taxpayers in producing some great tax relief for Kansans.
Tax bills that passed either chamber could be worked in the Tax Conference Committee. It was difficult this year because the House did not debate one tax bill on the House floor. Conference committees are about negotiating to find common ground with the other chamber on bills that have passed both chambers in different forms. It’s difficult to negotiate when the House hasn’t voted on these items. However, the House was willing to accept a majority of Senate positions and we negotiated some tax relief policy for Kansans.
There were three tax Conference Committee Reports (CCRs) negotiated. The first, CCR 2239, had several provisions: a property tax freeze via an income tax rebate for low-income seniors and disabled veterans; up to $250 tax credit for teachers who purchased school supplies with their own money; over $40 million in property tax relief – presently there is a $20,000 exemption on the valuation of the 20 mil of property taxes for K-12, this legislation would increase the exemption to $40,000 and increase it each year based on inflation – it hasn’t been increased since 1997; removing state sales tax on delivery and postage costs; exempting sales tax on fencing materials for agriculture; allowing county commissioners an option to abate property taxes on property destroyed by a natural disaster; creating a tax credit program for donors to technical and community colleges, capped at $5 million a year; making the sales tax exemption on vehicle manufacturer rebates permanent; and many other tax provisions. The House would not accept all of this good tax policy unless a provision to create a taxing authority in Shawnee County for the Zoo, Gage Park, and Discovery Center was included. The Senate accepted the offer since it would be voted on by the people of Shawnee County. We didn’t want to lose all of the good Senate tax positions and good tax policy for Kansans. It passed the Senate unanimously and the House 103 to 10. Hopefully, the Governor will not veto the CCR. If she does, it appears we have the votes to override a veto.
The other two tax CCRs, 2106 and 2597, are still in play and will hopefully be passed in Veto Session. CCR 2106 would remove state sales tax on groceries within three years. Starting January 1, it would decrease from 6.5% to 4%, in 2024 it would drop to 2%, and in 2025 it would go to 0%. Groceries means that prepared foods would not be included. Beginning January 1st would provide time for vendors to implement the sales tax reduction. You may think it is simple to implement, but an example is rotisserie chicken at the grocery store is cooked and ready to eat, so you would think it is prepared food and not exempt. However, according to the Department of Revenue, it would be exempt unless utensils to eat the chicken were provided. It would have been simpler to remove state sales tax from all edible items, but a majority of legislators would not support that effort. Another tax bill negotiated but delayed until veto session was CCR 2597. It had several tax cuts to help Kansans. There are too many to name but a few items included are: gradually removing all state income tax on Social Security and decreasing it on other retirement accounts, increasing standard deductions, and removing state sales tax on commercial electric and other utilities, matching the residential exemption.
As chairman of the Senate Tax Committee, I was able to develop and work with others to pass tax cuts – including property tax relief for homeowners. There is still work to do in lowering income taxes and removing sales tax on food.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL
CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
APRIL 5, 2022
6:00 P.M.
Call to Order
Roll Call:
Jones T. Van Hoecke S. Walker M. Wells K. Allen
Flag Salute:
Invocation: Led by: Pastor Brian Rhoades, Grace Baptist Tabernacle
Consent Agenda:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of March 15th, 2022, special meetings of March 16th, 2022, and March 28th, 2022.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1309-A totaling $539,731.85.
Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering Associates – $8,092.91 – Lake Lot Surveys
Request to Pay – K & G Striping, Inc. – $4,249.92
Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. – February Invoice – $1,470.00
Request to Pay #1 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Hammon’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $57,329.08
Request to Pay #1 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Sharky’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $32,967.12
Request to Pay #2 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Hammon’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $91,651.71
Request to Pay #2 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Sharky’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $72,143.77
Request to Pay – Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission – Administration Services – Urgent Need Grant – $5,000.00
Public Comment:
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
Old Business: None
Appearances:
Shaun O’Brien – Requests for closure of streets for Good Ol’ Days event:
Old Fort Blvd. from Wall Street to National Avenue
Main Street from Skubitz Plaza to Third Street – Close Friday at 1 p.m.
Wall Street from National to Scott
First Street from National to Scott Street
Second Street from National to Scott Street
Use of Memorial Hall:
Baby Contest on Saturday morning
Blane Howard Concert – Saturday night (Possible Friday night concert also)
Heritage Park at corner of First and Main
Parking lot behind Heritage Park
Parking lot at corner of Third and Main
Parking lot at Second and Scott
Parking lot at Wall and Scott
Parking lot at Wall and alley between Main and Scott
Parking lot between Memorial Hall and the Library
Parking lot between National and Block House (Carnival will begin setting up here on Tuesday, June 2nd)
Parking lot between Old Fort Blvd. and H & H Realty Agency (Carnival will begin setting up here on Friday morning)
Old Fort Blvd – South side from National to alley (Carnival will begin setting up here on Friday morning)
Skubitz Plaza – (No special set up for event this year, but need Old Fort Blvd closed when tents go up Wednesday on east bound from Main. All closed Thursday and Friday.
The Street Advisory Board will meet on Thursday, April 14, at 4:00 p.m. at the City Commission Meeting Room at 123 S. Main Street. This meeting is open to the public.
This meeting will be made available via the City’s you tube channel at City of Fort Scott.
Department of Defense Hypersonics Director
On Friday, I was pleased to welcome the U.S. Department of Defense’s Principal Director for Hypersonics Michael White to Wichita. During his visit, we toured Spirit AeroSystems and the National Defense Prototype Center, which showcased Wichita’s unique aerospace capabilities as the Air Capital of the World.
Director White also received an update on implementation of a $33 million contract awarded in 2019 to the National Institute for Aviation Research focused on advanced materials development for high-speed missile applications at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation and Missile Center. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I will continue to support investments and partnerships like these—especially given the value that hypersonics will play in the future of our military. Thank you to Mr. White for graciously accepting my invitation and special thanks to Spirit CEO Tom Gentile and his team for hosting this important visit.
U.S. Air Force Secretary
On Sunday, I hosted U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall at McConnell Air Force Base to showcase McConnell’s capabilities and to highlight Kansas’ strong aerospace innovation.
We visited the operations floor of the 184th Air Wing, where Secretary Kendall and I met airmen of the Information, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, an elite team of data analysts that conduct a broad spectrum of missions worldwide. We met members of the 184th Cyber Operations Group and received a classified briefing from them about the threats facing our nation. We were briefed by airmen of the 177th Information Aggressor Squadron, one of twelve cyber red teams in the country to discuss our adversaries’ cyber tactics as they test the cybersecurity of Department of Defense’s computer and communication systems. The 177th briefed us on current cyber vulnerabilities, how cybersecurity and training could be improved across the Air Force and how we in Congress can continue to support their mission. Secretary Kendall participated in a flight in the KC-46 Pegasus, a military aerial refueling aircraft, to witness a refueling mission. I have worked closely with the Air Force and U.S. Department of Defense officials to remediate issues with the KC-46, and I remain encouraged by the progress being made.
Thank you to TSgt Thurston, MSgt Presley, and SSgt Jonathan Brooks for their briefing on the capabilities of their operation center and simulator. And thank you to all in the 184th Air Wing for taking the time to organize our visit and provide valuable feedback. This visit provided the opportunity for Secretary Kendall to learn more about McConnell’s efforts to preserve our freedom, and I was pleased to show Secretary Kendall the work our airmen in Kansas do to protect our nation and the unique capabilities McConnell Air Force Base provides for our nation’s defense. It remains as important to me as ever that our warfighters receive the tools, resources and weapons systems they need to defend our country.
President Biden’s Energy Policies are Anti-Domestic
Since the day he took office, President Biden has weakened U.S. energy independence with proposals, policies and nominees that blame the fossil fuel industry for his administration’s missteps and out-of-touch aspirations, further harming an industry we need now more than ever.
President Biden this week announced he will release up to 180 million barrels of oil from our country’s reserve. Releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is not a long-term solution to achieving energy independence and may create great problems down the road. President Biden must embrace an all-of-the-above strategy to increase energy production where our domestic oil and gas producers play a role.
Questioning VA Secretary and VSOs on Toxic Exposures
On Tuesday, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing to review and discuss needed fixes to the House-passed Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxic Act, or PACT Act. In the past two years, numerous veterans service organizations (VSOs) have testified before Congress emphasizing the importance of fixing the process VA uses to provide health care and benefits to toxic-exposed veterans.
As the lead Republican on the Senate VA Committee, I am working closely with Chairman Tester to create a fair, transparent and responsive process for toxic-exposed veterans, beginning with the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act which unanimously passed out of the Senate. The House chose not to take up that important legislation and sent us the bill that we reviewed at this hearing, the PACT Act. It is clear to me that legislation is needed to make certain that VA can meet the needs of veterans and provide more toxic-exposed veterans with needed care and benefits. It is important that we get this legislation right, and I will continue to work with my colleagues as we work to send this legislation to the President’s desk.
During this hearing, we also questioned Secretary McDonough on lessons learned from the VA’s pilot model on presumptive decision-making that the department concluded on April 1. This pilot, developed last year to evaluate and establish presumptions of service-connection, has already resulted in the announcement and implementation of 12 presumptions for respiratory ailments and rare cancers. This hearing was a needed step in moving forward in crafting a responsive and enduring system that works for veterans—both today’s and tomorrow’s. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the Senate, the House and VA toward that end.
Efforts to Aid Ukraine
It has been more than one month since Vladimir Putin’s unjust war on Ukraine began. This week, I joined my Senate colleagues in requesting answers from President Biden’s National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on the speed, specifics and supply of lethal aid provided to Ukraine.
We must provide Ukraine with the tools not just to fight back, but to win. Read the full letter here.
Statement on President Biden’s FY2023 Proposed Budget
At a time when Kansans are concerned with record levels of inflation, an unsecure southern border threatening our national security and soaring energy prices, the Biden administration has put forth a budget proposal rife with new spending, inadequate support for our Armed Forces and tax hikes on fossil fuel producers that will discourage domestic production. Fortunately for Kansans, the President’s misconceived budget request is simply a recommendation, and the responsibility to allocate federals funds falls to Congress. Through my role on the Appropriations Committee, I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to rein in spending and government growth, prioritize our national defense and increase our energy and economic security.
Demanding A Review of the FBI’s Mishandling of Larry Nassar’s Abuse
Last July, the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released a report that revealed the manner in which the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) mishandled its investigation into former USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar.
While the DOJ is reviewing its earlier decision to not criminally charge the FBI agents who knew of Nassar’s abuse, did nothing, and then lied about their inaction in violation of their sworn duty and the law, the department’s response to the OIG report cannot end there.
This week, Senator Blumenthal and I, authors of the Empowering Olympic, Paralympic, and Amateur Athletes Act, urged the DOJ to conduct a comprehensive review of all information in its possession to determine whether any additional investigations should be opened or widened, and if other individuals and institutions who enabled the cover up of this egregious abuse, should be charged and held accountable. Read the full letter here.
Hosting the Turkish Ambassador for a Meeting
I met with Turkey’s ambassador to the United States, Murat Mercan, on Wednesday to discuss Russia’s war against Ukraine and how it is impacting Turkey, a NATO ally. Turkey imports nearly all of its oil and gas, and 85 percent of its wheat comes from Russia and Ukraine. We explored how American energy producers and farmers could help ease the pressures Turkey is experiencing. Ambassador Mercan and I discussed Turkey’s relationship with Russia and other countries in the Middle East, including the effects of a return to the Iran nuclear agreement known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. I appreciated the insights Ambassador Mercan provided on a turbulent but important part of the world.
Questioning Defense Health Agency Regarding Servicemember Mental Health
On Tuesday, I attended the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing regarding the Defense Health Agency (DHA). The Defense Health Agency is a joint, integrated Combat Support Agency that enables the Army, Navy and Air Force medical services to provide a medically ready force to Combatant Commands in both peacetime and wartime.
My questions focused on improving access to mental health services for servicemembers as the Department of Defense has failed to properly and sufficiently screen transitioning servicemembers at risk for suicide. A November 2021 Inspector General report was released, evaluating this screening process and suggested that this significant of an issue will not be solved until October 2023. This is unacceptable as thousands of current and future servicemembers transitioning from active duty are at-risk of falling through the cracks and not receiving the mental health care they need and deserve. I look forward to identifying what changes can be made – either at the administrative or legislative level – so our servicemembers are cared for properly.
Additionally, I asked Lt. Gen. Scott Dingle, Surgeon General of the Army, about the importance of NICoE facilities in Kansas. NICoE – National Intrepid Centers of Excellence – are sites on military bases dedicated to treating servicemembers with effects of traumatic brain injury, behavioral health issues and other conditions with a broad range of innovative and emerging treatments and therapies. I will continue to advocate to Defense Health Agency leaders that Kansas can and should have a NICoE facility for our military community back home.
I appreciated the testimony from Lt. Gen. Dingle, Dr. Smith, Lt. Gen. Place, Lt. Gen. Miller, and Rear Adm. Gillingham, and their service to our country and nation’s servicemembers.
Discussing Kansas Water Priorities with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
On Tuesday, I also met with representatives of the Kansas City District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including District Commander Col. Travis Rayfield. We discussed the needs of the Lower Missouri River Basin and Tuttle Creek Reservoir, which suffered from significant flooding in 2019. I secured funding in the FY2022 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for a water injection dredging demonstration project that will hopefully resolve the sedimentation problem at this reservoir, allowing it to hold more water. I look forward to continuing to work with Col. Rayfield and Kansas City District on water issues impacting Kansans.
Meeting with City Leaders
Leavenworth
I met with Leavenworth Mayor Camalla Leonhard and City Manager Paul Kramer this week to discuss issues facing their community. As Ranking Member of the VA Committee, I was pleased to receive an update on the important services the Leavenworth Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides to veterans living in their community and the surrounding area. We also discussed future plans for the Leavenworth Penitentiary, as well as the need for investments in the Centennial Bridge. I appreciate Mayor Leonhard and City Manager Kramer for stopping by my office and look forward to working with them in the future.
Arkansas City
I also met with representatives of the City of Arkansas City to discuss the infrastructure needs of the City. City Manager Randy Frazer and City Commissioner Charles Jennings spoke about the issues impacting the city, including a need for quality housing, the Heartland Flyer extension project and how the recently-passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act can serve their community. We also discussed how federal water infrastructure and water maintenance programs could benefit the city. I appreciated the opportunity to speak with Randy and Charles and look forward to continuing to work together on the needs of Arkansas City.
Hispanic Chamber
It was also great to meet with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City to discuss issues impacting Hispanic-owned businesses and the Hispanic community, including the remaining impact of COVID-19, immigration policies, and legislation that may disrupt some Hispanic-owned businesses. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City was founded in 1977 to represent the interests of Hispanic-owned businesses, and the organization has been a pillar of the Kansas City community since. I appreciated the opportunity to speak with the leadership and members of the chamber, and we will continue to work together to solve the challenges facing the Hispanic community in Kansas City.
Meeting with National Association of Postal Supervisors
This week, I spoke with Kelly McCartney, the National Association of Postal Supervisors (NAPS) MINK Area Vice President and Immediate Past NAPS Kansas State President. With the recent passage of bipartisan postal reform legislation, we spoke about the new opportunities postal employees and the U.S. Postal Service leadership has to stabilize the Postal Service. I was a cosponsor of the Senate version of H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act, which passed Congress last month. Throughout my time representing Kansans in Washington, D.C., I have advocated for preserving and reforming the Postal Service as well fighting against the closure of post offices in rural Kansas. It appreciated hearing more from Kelly about her service as a postal employee and to hear the daily impact her work and our postal reform legislation will have across the state of Kansas.
Update on NASA’s Artemis Lunar Landers from Blue Origin
This week I had the pleasure of meeting with Blue Origin and a handful of their Kansas suppliers. Last summer, I hosted Bob Smith, Blue Origin’s CEO, to Wichita to see our capabilities and workforce firsthand. Representatives from Harlow Aerostructures, Accurus Aerospace and Orizon Aerostructures joined the conversation to discuss the work they are doing as a result from Mr. Smith’s visit last year. I enjoyed getting a chance to discuss our suppliers work in helping Blue Origin accomplish their goals and appreciate Blue Origin’s continued partnership.
Discussing Priorities with Blinded Veterans Association Leaders
I met with the Blinded Veterans Association this week to listen to their concerns regarding access to care at the VA. Veterans suffering from any sort of vision impairment deserve quality care from our VA facilities, and I will continue to work to deliver results so blinded veterans receive the treatment they require at VA clinics.
Meeting with Kansans
KU Law Students
I was pleased to speak with a group of students from the University of Kansas School of Law this week in my Washington office. These KU Law Students are wrapping up their final year of law school with internships in our nation’s capital. As a proud KU Law alumnus, I enjoyed hearing about the students’ experiences both in Lawrence and Washington, as well as their aspirations for the future.
National Federation of Republican Women
I appreciate my conversation with the National Federation of Republican Women on Thursday, including Linda and Brenda Smith of Salina. We discussed my recent trip to Eastern Europe and how we must provide Ukraine with not just the tools to survive, but to win. We also touched on government spending and the need to have federal employees return to work, including at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. Thank you to these women for taking time out of their day to catch up with me.
Announcing Federal Investments in Cowley College
On Friday, I was in Arkansas City to tour Cowley College. While visiting with staff and students in the Renn Memorial Library, I announced that the college will be awarded funding to be used for the purpose of developing a new Academic Success Center. I am of the firm belief that we change the world one soul at a time—one student at a time—and I am pleased to have secured the resources for this new Academic Success Center which will work to proactively identify at-risk students early in the semester, and partner these students with near-peer tutors with the goal of helping each achieve their full academic potential.
One of those peer students I visited with, Katie, shared about how she is learning and growing as she mentors and helps her classmates achieve success in their classes. Students like her will be a crucial part to the new center, and it was inspiring to see Katie doing her part to change the world one person at a time.
My gratitude goes out to Cowley College President, Dr. Dennis Rittle, and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Michelle Schoon, for inviting me to visit with the college, staff and students.
National Vietnam War Veterans Day
On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and thank those veterans who did not receive a proper welcome home following their service. On Tuesday, I visited the Vietnam Wall on our National Mall to pay tribute to our Vietnam veterans at the memorial built in their honor. To those with us now and to those who have left us, thank you.
Thanking President Scott of Pittsburg State
I am of the view that we change the world one soul, one student, one person at a time. Education is one of the most impactful ways we can do that, and I appreciate President Scott’s dedication to serving Pittsburg State students and the community at large over the past 30 years.
Visiting with President Linton of K-State
Walked K-State campus on Saturday morning with President Linton in Manhattan for some cardio and conversation.
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
Submitted by Rebecca Johnson BSN, RN; SEK Multi-County Health Department Administrator/SEK Local Health Officer
Prevent-Promote-Protect
Who are we?
We are the SEK Multi-County Health Department.
1971, the Bi-County Health Department was started with Anderson County and Linn County. Kansas Department of Health and Environment worked with these two counties because of their low immunization rates. Several years later, Allen, Bourbon, and Woodson Counties joined to form the Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Department. In 2006, Linn County left the SEKMCHD leaving the four counties – Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, and Woodson.
Who are our staff?
Allen County: Megan Neville, RN-Public Health Nurse; Traci Ridge-Accountant; Susan Belt, MT(ASCP)- Reg. PHEP Coordinator/Planning & Outreach Coordinator; Vicki Howard-Home Visitor; Ruby Gulick-Administrative Assistant; Deidre Wilson, RN-WIC Coordinator/Public Health Nurse; Dr. Rebecca Watson-Medical Director; Cara Walden, RN-Public Health Nurse; Cynthia Frisbie, RD, LD-Dietician
Anderson County: Samantha Mason BS, RN-Public Health Nurse; Mika Mader-Administrative Assistant
Bourbon County: Hannah Geneva, RN-Public Health Nurse; Kendell Mason-Administrative Assistant; Holly Fritter-Home Visitor; Linda Lawrence-Special Projects Assistant; Rebecca Johnson, BSN, RN-Administrator/SEK Local Health Officer
Public health is the science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities. This work is achieved by promoting healthy lifestyles, researching disease and injury prevention, and detecting, preventing and responding to infectious diseases. Overall, public health is concerned with protecting the health of entire populations. These populations can be as small as a local neighborhood, or as big as an entire country or region of the world. (CDCfoundation.org)
Why is Public Health important?
Public health professionals try to prevent problems from happening or recurring through implementing educational programs, recommending policies, administering services and conducting research—in contrast to clinical professionals like doctors and nurses, who focus primarily on treating individuals after they become sick or injured. Public health also works to limit health disparities. A large part of public health is promoting health care equity, quality and accessibility. (CDCfoundation.org)
The 10 Essential Public Health Services:
The strength of a public health system rests on its capacity to effectively deliver the 10 Essential Public Health Services:
Assess and monitor population health.
Investigate, diagnose and address health hazards and root causes.
Communicate effectively to inform and educate.
Strengthen, support and mobilize communities and partnerships.
Create, champion and implement policies, plans and laws.
Utilize legal and regulatory actions.
Enable equitable access.
Build a diverse and skilled workforce.
Improve and innovate through evaluation, research and quality improvement.
Build and maintain a strong organizational infrastructure for public health.
The 10 Essential Public Health Services provide a framework for public health to protect and promote the health of all people in all communities.
To achieve optimal health for all, the Essential Public Health Services actively promote policies, systems and services that enable good health and seek to remove obstacles and systemic and structural barriers — such as poverty, racism, gender discrimination, and other forms of oppression — that have resulted in health inequalities.
Everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to achieve good health and well-being.
Other services we provide to our community:
Family Planning:
Breast Exam, Pap, Lab Work, STD testing, Blood pressure screening, hemoglobin, blood sugar, nutrition counseling & birth control if desired.
Immunizations:
Infants, Children, & Adults
KanBe Healthy Screening:
For Kancare eligible children up to 18 years of age. Full physical, hearing & vision screenings, and lab work.
Healthy Start Home Visitor:
Provides home visits to pregnant mothers and parents of newborns. Provides parents with resources and referrals for various assistance programs they are eligible for. Breastfeeding education provided.
Adult Physicals:
Basic adult physical provided by registered nurse for employment purposes. Physicals also provided for State of Kansas foster care or adoptions.
Childhood Physicals:
Physicals for public schools, daycares, Headstart or preschool. Full physical, hearing & vision screens, lab work. No Athletic Physicals.
Blood Pressure & Glucose Checks:
We will monitor blood pressure/blood glucose and keep a record for you.
Pregnancy Tests:
Provided for $15.00. Referrals to DCF, WIC, HSHV, and family doctor are provided.
WIC:
Women, Infant, & Children – State Program to help promote the healthy development of children. Call for more information.
STD Testing & Treatment:
We will test for and treat gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis.
Lab/Blood Draws:
Cholesterol, diabetes, drug screens, pregnancy, CBC, Thyroid, prostate. For a full list and pricing please call.
Agenda Bourbon County Commission Room 1stFloor, County Courthouse 210 S. National Avenue Fort Scott, KS 66701 Tuesdaysstarting at 9:00 Date: April 5, 2022 1stDistrict–Lynne OharahMinutes:Approved:_______________ 2ndDistrict–JimHarrisCorrected: _______________________ 3rdDistrict–Clifton BethAdjourned at: _______________ County Clerk–Ashley Shelton MEETING HELD INCOMMUNITY CENTER IN MAPLETON @ 6PM Call to Order •Flag Salute •Approval of Minutes from previous meeting •EricBailey–Road and BridgeReport •Opening Hays Bids •County Counselor Comment •Susan Bancroft, Finance DirectorComment oExecutive Session–KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy oContract Renewal for I AM REHAB & FITNESS at the Medical Building •Public Comment •Elected Officials Comment •CommissionComment
March 25, 2022Friday at 2:00 P.M. The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with two Commissioners and Jim Harris by phone and the County Clerk present. Anne Dare, Mike Houston, Christi Keating, Randy Nichols, Jason Silvers, Tim VanHoeke, Katie Harrington, Mary Pemberton, Jennifer Wiggans, Trace Evans, and Austin Bahr were present for some or all of the meeting. Clifton stated that with the news of what is happening in Missouri with a couple of Noble Health Hospitals, we need to make a statement.Clifton stated that we paid for a feasibility study and we fully expect to get that study.It is in existence, I’ve seen parts of it and Noble Health will be here Tuesday of next week.There are rumors on Facebook circulating that Noble Health is not what they presented themselves to be.Comments have been made by some that don’t know what they are talking about.What happens in Missouri doesn’t affect us at all.We paid $1,000,000.00 for a study and that’s what we will get.The study is 99%completed and they will be here Tuesday to deliver a little bit of it.Jim stated that he wants the public to understand that the funding for this study came from the federal government and were for healthcare improvements only and that money for the study that we are receiving did not go to Noble it went to the folks doing the study.Clifton stated that the commissioners have done their homework.They owe us a study and they are going to deliver that study in the coming weeks.I feel sorry for what is happening in Missouri. I hope they can reorganize.Instead of being negative and calling Noble Health all kinds of names, we should be praying for those communities. Jim stated the feasibility study can be taken to any hospitalif Noble Health doesn’t open a hospital.Jim continued stating that we haven’tspent one penny of taxpayer money.This is all federal money that had to be spent on healthcare or send it back. Clifton stated that we have not transferred the building to Noble Health.We haven’t given Noble Health any more money.Two or three weeks ago we were going to transfer the building and Noble Health said no.They said they potentially have some issues and we are not going to take the building or money from you right now.Again, we paidfor a feasibility study and that’s what we expect to receive.Jim stated that Noble Health is the first company in four years that have shown any interest.Clifton stated that Tuesday will be a normal meeting and Noble Health will be here to share parts of the feasibility study. At 2:09pm, Clifton made a motion to adjourn.Lynne seconded.All approved. THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS (ss) Jim Harris, Chairman (ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner (ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner
March 22, 2022,Tuesday at 6 pm The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Lynne, Jim, Clifton, the County Counselor, and the County Clerk. Also present for the meeting were, Joe George, Don & Mary Pemberton, Bill Martin, Nancy Holt, Jess Ervin, Matt & Amber Kelley, Kyle Knight, Bobby Rich, Brad Stewart, Jared & Heather Lord, Marla Sutterby, Kevin Sutterby, Beverly Peel, Dale & Lisa Griffiths, Bobby Reed, Roy Dare, Larry & Judy Jurgensen, Kelly Perry, Danielle Minor, Kayla Greenway, Schotze Griffiths, Dana Esslinger, Lyle Robinson, Rob Herrington, Matt Quick, Shane Walker (some were present for a portion of the meeting, some were present for the entire meeting). Jim thanked everyone for coming to the meeting encouraged questions from the public. Clifton made a motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Lynne seconded. All approved. Eric Bailey reported a permit for an extension for Paul Hopkins at 2528 240thSt that has been completed. There was a second permit for Christian Gospel Chapel at 2305 Maple Rd for a new culvert as well as an extension. Lynne made a motion to approve the permit for a culvert and extension at 2305 Maple Rd, Fort Scott, KS. Clifton seconded. All approved. Eric said that at 240th& railroad tracks the 36”culvert has been extended 10’ and is complete and they are going to Arrowhead just west of 267thbut due to weather they have postponed that until next week. Jim asked if the railroad was cooperative. Eric said they were cooperative. Eric said that Schwab Easton was going to be in town either late today or in the morning to do the bi-annual bridge inspections as well as the low water crossings. Eric presented maps regarding speed limit signs on Deer Rd. Eric said there are 30 mph signs on 210thgoing south and Deer Rd going East. Jim said is there one going North. Eric said not but they could post one going north or take the other two down. Lynne asked if there any residence in the area. Eric said there was one house in the area. Bobby Reed said that going south it is only 30 mph for ¼ mile, he said that he knows that because he has had kids to drop of there on a bus route. Clifton asked if it then went 45 mph. Jim answered that it is 55 mph on county roads when it is not posted. Jim said that he will talk to the individual again and get some more information and then they can discuss it further. Eric said that dump truck #145 caught fire and they have received the insurance check for $57,924.63. Eric asked that with trucks being hard to find if the commission will consider allowing him to purchase one up to a set dollar amount if they find one available with low miles. Jim said he would be in favor of doing that. Clifton made a motion to allow Eric to spend up to $80,000.00 on a dump truck. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Eric presented information on a product that he learned more about at the 17-county regional meeting. He said this product would help get some longevity out of the roads they have recently resurfaced. Jim asked if this is in lieu of chip and seal. Eric said that it would replace chip and seal and the cost is very similar. He said that there are several surrounding counties that are using this. Eric said it is turn-key, they do everything from the prep, applying the product, traffic control, and notifying the residents. Eric said this would be something they would want to apply to the roads they recently laid that do not have the crakes in them to help preserve them, Eric also said that the product has a 5–7-year life and will remail black in color for that time which could also in the winter. He said that the name of the company is Onyx and it started in Texas and has worked its way into this area. Eric said that he has submitted a final punch list regarding the windmills today and that they will be wanting to turn the roads back over to the county soon. Don Coffman asked if the material was man-made or natural rock? Eric said it is like sand aggregate. Don asked if it was man made or natural rock. Eric said he was not sure but would find out. Don said that some of the man-made material can really eat up a snowplow blade. Jim assured the public that Eric will do more research and makesure that won’t be an issue if they use it. Eric said he didn’t think it would hurt thesnowplows or all these other places would not be using it but he would research it further. Kayla Greenway asked if Eric had a chance to look at the stop sign outside of Bronson, she said she was at the work session last week and had asked about it. Eric said he would have to check with the sign crew and see if they had made it out there,he wasn’t sure, but it is on their list. Kayla also said that John Stokes would like for Eric to contact him in regard to getting some chip and seal for the city of Bronson.
Jim said that the resolution has been prepared allowing liquor sales in the county and asked County Counselor Meeks if he had time to review it. Meeks said he did and it was fine as long as the commission approves it. Clifton stated that it will allow liquor sales in Bourbon County but will follow the guidelines set by the State of Kansas. Clifton made a motion to approve Resolution 10-22 allowing the retail sale of liquor in its original packaging and that said hours of operation shall be determined by Kansas law. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships, it will be for 10 minutes returning to this room at 6:28 pm and will include the 3 commissioners, Justin Meeks, Rob Herrington, and Susan Bancroft. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:28 pm with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to go into executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(2) to discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency, with the reason of possible litigation. It will be for 5 minutes returning to this room at 6:34 pm and will include the 3 commissioners, and Justin Meeks. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:34 pm with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved.
Susan Bancroft presented December, January, and February financials. She said that the Treasurer’sOffice, Clerk’sOffice, and herself have been working together to work through some of the issues there have been in the past. She said that at the end of February the two numbers should match and there are several reconciling items that need to be entered. She said that she has been working with Rhonda Dunn and you should see those cleaned up in March and then you will see less and less of that moving forward. She said there are some training issues that need to happen with the clerk’s office as well as the treasurer’soffice as far as reconciling things instead of carrying them, but we are working on those diligently. She said that theclerk’soffice is starting to get thedaily’s so we are getting caught up on those and she feels really goodabout moving forward. She said that with the cash balances that carried over, there were some funds that did better than expected which gives the commission the option to increase the budget at the end of the year or just keep it in reserves. The commissioners and Susan discussed how important it is to have up to date information for departments to be able to operate and stay within their budgets. Ashley Shelton asked if everything was closed through February. Susan said that it is. Ashley said that she would try to get end of month reports for February sent out to department heads by the end of the week. Susan asked if the commission had thought any more about the gas provider. She said that Pro Solutions is going out of business and if we don’t do anything before June 1stthe service to transfer to Kansas Gas but it’sa higher rate than what we have been paying. She said there is a company, Hamlin Energy, that we could contract with and they would find us the best rate and give recommendations as well as review monthly bills to see if it would be in the best interest of the county to change companies or lock in a price. This would be for both the courthouse as well as the correctional center. She said due to the time constraints and the fluidity of the market she would recommend going with this company at least for now until we have more time to research other options. The commissioners said that they would be ok with that but would like to view the information from Hamlin first. Susan said that she would forward the information to them and have the contract ready for the next commission meeting if that is the option that they choose. Kayla Greenway said that her and Amber Kelly came to the last meeting to represent Bronson and Uniontown regarding the old highway. She said that she did talk to Rob Herrington about the grant that Susan had mentioned and they said they would be great to work on that in the fall when that grant becomes available and they have talked to Bronson businesses about getting the letters that Susan said would be needed and Amber is talking to Uniontown. She said they are working and trying to get the hazardous section of Maple Road between Bronson and Uniontown fixed especially since it is now also a bike trail. She encouraged any business that would want to write letters to go with Susan and Rob to apply for the cost share grant to get the road fixed to please do that and explain why they feel it is necessary. Susan said that she has a meeting with KDOT on another project and while she is talking to them, she will ask if there is any other funding for this type of project due to it being a bike trail as well. Clifton asked if it was the road just North of the gas station in Uniontown. Dale Griffiths said that is the road and it has only ever been redone from the gas station to the top of the hill and it is in very poor condition.
Don Coffman asked if the county had looked into the KDOT surplus when looking for trucks. Jim said yes they do, they look everywhere and that used trucks are hard to find right now. Don said that if you can find a KDOT district truck they usually have lower miles and come with a spreader or a plow.
Skeet George asked the about the asphalt on the road from Linn County line to Hiattville, and if that was done in two lifts? Jim saidthat he wasn’t here and that he wasn’t sure. Skeet said that he thought that some areas were and others were not and maybe the areas that weren’t should be some high areas of concern for maintenance. Jim said that it is on the list. Skeet also asked if the county was getting all the rock that it needs? Jim said no. There was discussion of how many hours the crusher operates per day and different options that may help increase production. There was also discussion of needing a bigger crusher.
Larry Jurgensen asked if there was any way that if the city pays county for material to chip and seal areas in Uniontown would the county donate the labor. The commissioners said that they would look into that but they were not sure if they would be able to or not but they could look into it.
Michael Hoyt said that last year he was locked out of the budget process due to covid and wanted to know if the documents would be available for the public this year. Ashley said that the clerk’s office is now sending all supporting documents that they have available when they send out the agenda so that information is available to the public.
Mary Pemberton said that she commends Susan for the job that she is doing and helping to get things updated and operating better at the county. She discussed the audit from the prior year and how it effects the grant application process for the county. She discussed employee benefits and different options to change that as well as letting the employs know what the benefits are worth as well as updating the employee handbook as well. Susan stated that the county has been having department head meetings that have been going really well to build relationships with the departments and they are all working together to update the handbook as well as updating policy and procedures. Mary also discussed concerns with the public works department and the rock crusher operation as well as with their policy for buying supplemental rock when they cannot meet demand. There was discussion regarding the process of operating the crusher.
Clifton commented on the benefits the county offers. Kayla Greenway asked if there were other benefits that could be offered such as how the City of Fort Scott offers pool passes and golf course passes.Susan said the county doesn’t have those things to offer and even at the city, the employee is taxed on those benefits.
Don Pemberton asked how long the county has been crushing rock. Jim responded that they began in 2000. Don explained that he understood that when they started doing it they were meeting a need, but now that need is not being met and maybe they should look at other viable option other than buying a bigger crusher prior to making the purchase.
Dale Griffiths asked when the plan to work on Old 54 Hwy between Uniontown and Bronson. Eric said that he was concerned that they would have to take it down to gravel before they could go back in and asphalt it. Eric said that they drilled and the base is good but they do not have a defendant plan yet. Eric also said the on Yale Rd the base is failing and they will have to redo that. Dale asked why they were mowing and running a brush cutting in January. Eric said they had mowed earlier but were trying to go back in and get up to the fences and between the weather and being short on help they were just doing it whenever they had time and manpower. Dale also asked if the county had an in-house mechanic. Eric said that they do for maintenance but if repair is needed on a large piece of equipment, they outsource that. Dale suggested that may be a way to save money is to have an in-house mechanic that could do that work as well.
Kayla Greenway asked who oversees the grant money for the bike trails and could they use some of that to help maintain the road that is a bike trail. Susan said that they are their own board and you would have to talk to the HBCAT board.
It was asked about a recreational tax for recreational hunting on land bought by out-of-state people. Clifton said the county is not zoned and that they would not tell people what they can do with their land. Matt Quick added that the land is taxed based on use and it is classified as crop or grass and crop ground is taxed higher than grass.
Sheriff Bill Martin thanked the public for coming to the meeting and said that he has an open- door policy and they are welcome to come by the sheriff station at any time and talk to him. Jim thanked everyone for coming to the meeting. Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Lynne seconded. All approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:12 pm THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS (ss) Jim Harris, Chairman (ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner (ss) Clifton Beth, Commisioner
