PASSED: Sen. Marshall Resolution to Block Vaccine Mandate for Healthcare Workers
(Washington, D.C., March 2, 2022) – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed his legislation to halt President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for healthcare workers. Senator Marshall delivered remarks on the Senate floor prior to the vote. You may click HERE or on the image below to view the Senator’s speech.
“Make no mistake, this federal vaccine mandate is not about public health or science – it’s about Joe Biden fulfilling his desire to control every aspect of our lives, and it’s a slap in the face to the hard-working men and women who never took a day off on the frontline fight against COVID-19,” said Senator Marshall. “Today is a huge victory for all the healthcare workers who ran to the sound of the COVID battle as Senate Republicans joined forces taking us one step closer to invalidating President Biden’s overreaching and harmful CMS vaccine mandate. These workers are the true heroes of the pandemic and deserve our best fight and utmost respect.”
You may click HERE to view Senator Marshall’s remarks as prepared.
Background:
Senator Marshall’s resolution stops the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for virtually all healthcare employees and prevents any similar rule from being proposed in the future. The resolution now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives. Companion legislation was introduced by Representatives Jeff Duncan (SC) and has the support from over 168 members.
President Biden’s mandate would exacerbate staffing shortages and impose burdensome costs at health care facilities. According to CMS, the unfunded mandate will cost over $158 million to health care facilities to implement. For nursing homes and rural health providers, which already face staff shortages, losing even one percent of staff is catastrophic in their field. These providers would be forced to limit available services or close their doors for not meeting minimum staffing requirements. The rule also does not take into account infection-acquired immunity or the fact that vaccines do not prevent the transmission of the now dominant Omicron variant.
The CMS vaccine mandate was previously prohibited from taking effect by two federal courts in Louisiana and Missouri. While the Supreme Court ruled in January that the CMS has the statutory authority to impose conditions upon health care facilities participating in Medicare and Medicaid, it harms access to care for rural and underserved communities. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt and nine other Attorneys General have asked a separate federal court to reopen litigation to lift the stay on further district proceedings.
The Congressional Review Act is a legal tool whereby Congress can overturn rules issued by federal agencies, once it has been properly noticed. “Proper notice” occurs once a regulation is printed in the Federal Register and received by the Clerks of the House and Senate. The CMS vaccine mandate regulation was printed in the Federal Register on November 5, 2021. With more than 36 original cosponsors, the resolution received privilege in the Senate and allowed the body to vote on it.
Governor Laura Kelly Announces February Total Tax Collections Continue to Exceed Estimates
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that total tax collections for February were $502.5 million. That is $18.7 million, or 3.9%, more than the February estimate. Those collections are also $46.6 million, or 10.2%, more than February 2021.
“My administration has taken steps to restore the Kansas economy, and that fiscal responsibility has paved the way to provide direct tax relief to Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I urge the Legislature to work together to send me a clean bill eliminating the state’s tax on food immediately, so that we can put this money back into the pockets of Kansas taxpayers.”
Individual income tax collections were $183.4 million in February. That is $6.6 million, or 3.5%, below the estimate. However, it is important to note that income tax refunds are being issued much quicker than in prior years. There have been 15,000 more refunds sent out in February 2022 compared to February 2021. The increase in refunds total $21.0 million more paid out in February compared to the same month of 2021.
“The positive trend in tax receipts continues with all of the major tax types, individual income tax, corporate income tax, retailer’s sales tax, and compensating use tax, performing well. But for the larger number of refunds issued in February, individual income tax receipts also would have surpassed the February estimate,” said Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart. “We are pleased to be able to get individual income tax refunds paid more quickly and into the accounts of taxpayers.”
So far, nearly 281,000 refunds, totaling $147.0 million, have been paid out this filing season. Refunds for electronically filed returns can be expected to be deposited in taxpayers’ bank accounts in 4-7 days, with some deposits occurring in as little as three days.
Corporate income tax collections were $23.4 million, which is $12.4 million, or 112.8%, more than the February 2022 estimate. Those collections are $15.2 million, or 186.3% more than February 2021, reflecting substantial corporate profits.
Retail sales tax collections were $195.2 million, which is $5.2 million, or 2.8% more than the estimate. Those collections are also $16.0 million, or 8.9%, greater than February 2021. Compensating use tax collections were $59.4 million, which is $4.4 million, or 8.0%, more than the estimate. Those collections were $20.7 million, or 53.7%, more than February 2021.
Fort Scott Airport is the recipient of a Kansas Department of Transportation managed grant to help safeguard and secure the airport.
Thirty-six projects were selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for the purpose of planning, constructing or rehabilitating public-use general aviation airports, according to a Kansas Department of Transportation press release. Fort Scott was one.
Seth Simpson, Fort Scott City Airport Manager.
“The grant will be to replace a gate and install an electric keypad,” Seth Simpson, airport manager, said. “This is the east side gate, near the fuel tanks.”
“The benefit to the public is less potential for loss, due to damage or theft or wildlife damage,” Simpson said. “The benefit to the airport is security and safety.”
Taken from airnav.com
On the horizon for the airport is runway resurfacing.
“On April 1, we will be applying for the grant to resurface,” Simpson said. “The FDA already officially, unofficially approved it.”
“Every so many years you have to resurface to maintain the runway, just like a highway,” he said.
There are currently two employees at the airport, Simpson and Bryan Matkin, a maintenance technician, he said.
Twenty-one airplanes are housed at the airport whose owners are from Fort Scott and surrounding areas.
The City of Fort Scott owns the airport, which is located four miles from the city. The phone number is 620-223-5490.
Taken from airnav.com
About KAIP
KAIP receives $5 million annually through the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, known as IKE, and requires airport sponsors to share in the project costs by paying between 5% and 50% of the total project. The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, which manages the program, considered 145 project applications this year with a combined total project value of over $78 million.
“The aviation industry brings $20.6 billion in total economic impact to the State of Kansas,” said KDOT Director of Aviation Bob Brock. “The KAIP program helps this important industry remain a vital part of the Kansas economy. That translates into jobs and quality of life for the residents of Kansas.”
The selection board identified $4,968,161 in projects to address the most impactful airport improvements across the state. Please direct any questions to [email protected].
Topeka – Thirty-six projects have been selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for the purpose of planning, constructing or rehabilitating public use general aviation airports.
KAIP receives $5 million annually through the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, known as IKE, and requires airport sponsors to share in the project costs by paying between 5% and 50% of the total project. The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, which manages the program, considered 145 project applications this year with a combined total project value of over $78 million.
“The aviation industry brings $20.6 billion in total economic impact to the State of Kansas,” said KDOT Director of Aviation Bob Brock. “The KAIP program helps this important industry remain a vital part of the Kansas economy. That translates into jobs and quality of life for the residents of Kansas.”
The selection board identified $4,968,161 in projects to address the most impactful airport improvements across the state. Please direct any questions to [email protected].
Communities selected for funding, project and amount awarded include:
Anthony Replace airport beacon and install AWOS – $252,450
Atchison Construction on new runway 9-27 – $89,396
Atchison Design of primary apron expansion – $38,000
Atchison Construction of primary apron expansion – $328,500
Augusta Fuel farm equipment safety and environmental improvements – $10,058
Augusta Small crack sealant melter/applicator unit with a pallet of rubber crack filler material – $2,820
Beloit Replace outdated (2008) AWOS system – $180,000
Benton AWOS upgrade and service – $ 7,920
Colby Construction of D32 taxiway to new business hangar – $108,000
Dodge City Replace airfield generator – $72,000
Ellsworth Replace lightning damaged and aging AWOS system – $242,550
Emporia Paving materials to extend runway length to no less than 5,002 feet – $75,000
Fort Scott Install electronic gate/keypad for security access & wildlife control – $21,250
Goodland Pavement preservation on runway 12-30, replace joint seal on 50% of concrete pavement, repaint runway 12-30 and portion of GA apron – $409,050
Herrington Replace airport beacon – $18,000
Hutchinson Design hangar improvements to accommodate water bomber storage – $9,500
Hutchinson Construct hangar improvements to accommodate water bomber storage – $85,850
Iola/Allen Co. Pavement preservation of runway 1-19 and remarking – $477,000
Leoti Install turnaround lights on ends of runway 17/35 – $72,000
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Condemning Putin’s Unprovoked Invasion of Ukraine
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is an avoidable tragedy for which Vladimir Putin is solely responsible. I condemn this unprovoked attack, and I am praying for the people of Ukraine. The United States must stand united with Ukraine and firmly on the side of freedom.
President Biden and our allies must impose punishing sanctions on Russia’s vital economic sectors and provide humanitarian support to Ukrainian victims of Moscow’s aggression. It is also imperative that all NATO allies remain unified against the Russian threat and ensure the security of the alliance’s eastern-most members. While this moment underscores the need for our allies to contribute more to NATO’s defense, the United States’ commitment to our NATO obligations cannot be in doubt.
I am grateful for our military servicemembers stationed in Europe—and those who have recently deployed there—for demonstrating to our NATO allies in Europe and around the world that the United States can be relied upon. I also thank our intelligence professionals, who have consistently and accurately anticipated Russia’s moves. Our country is safer because of these unsung patriots.
Watch my interview with Fox 4 Kansas City here or below.
Urging the U.S. Senate to Immediately Consider a Bipartisan Russia Sanctions Package
As the Senate convenes this week, Russia’s invasion must be met with severe and unified consequences. Following Russia’s invasion late Wednesday night, I urged Senate Majority Leader Schumer to suspend all planned Senate activity and immediately move to consider sanctions legislation once it is prepared. Our friends and foes will take note of our ability—or inability—to act without delay.
Russia invades Ukraine, the Biden administration must realize the need to maximize home-grown energy and not diminish America’s energy independence at a time when gas and oil prices reach all-time highs. Prior to the invasion, Russia has been America’s third largest supplier of oil. Each day, the U.S. and our European allies was sending hundreds of millions of dollars to Russia for its energy resources. We can no longer subsidize Russian aggression.
I believe in an all-of-the-above approach to energy independence, and it can’t be accomplished without enabling our oil and gas producers to play a role. Washington must promote sensible solutions that boost jobs at home and keeps money out of the pockets of our adversaries.
Visiting with Ft. Riley’s Commanding General Douglas Sims
I am thinking of the First Infantry Division soldiers stationed in Europe as their deployment is extended. Their mission has taken them far from their families as they assist partner nations during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
I had the opportunity to speak twice this week with Major General Sims, the Commanding General at Ft. Riley. I expressed my appreciation for his leadership and gratitude to our soldiers and their families.
The Big Red One stands ready as a key deterrent to our adversaries, and I appreciate their dedicated service. Read more about the deployment extension here in Fox News.
Junction City Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Breakfast
On Thursday, I spoke at the Junction City Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Breakfast. With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I made clear my condemnation of Vladimir Putin’s aggression and the need for the United States to be united in our support for our military community and our servicemembers, as well as in our commitment to NATO and our allies.
The Junction City Military Affairs Council plays a vital role in the Fort Riley Community to support our Big Red One soldiers and their families, and I was able to recognize Ryan Kules and Christine Benne, tireless advocates for servicemembers and veterans, and two individuals who have made significant contributions to the lives of disabled veterans. A few years ago, I worked with Christine and her late husband, Paul, a Spring Hill native, to help them receive a Specially Adaptive Housing grant from VA after Paul retired from the Army. After working through this process with them, I was introduced to Ryan, who also utilized the SAH grant to adapt his home to fit his disabilities.
Although the SAH grant was helpful, it was not nearly as flexible and extensive as it should have been. We then worked together and with the Wounded Warrior Project to expand this benefit through legislation. The bill, which we named the Ryan Kules and Paul Benne Specially Adaptive Housing Improvement Act, was signed into law in 2020. It significantly improves this grant program for disabled veterans. Although we lost Paul in 2019, his legacy lives on through every veteran who is able to make their home more accessible due to his and Ryan’s advocacy.
Thank you to Craig Bender, Military Affairs Council Director of the Junction City Chamber, for the kind invitation and to Major General Douglas Sims, 1st Infantry Division Commanding General, for the conversation. Thank you also to Ryan Kules and Christine Benne. I know this community and our state will continue to support Ft. Riley soldiers.
Increasing Broadband Funding Transparency
Last week, I joined my Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee colleagues in sponsoring the Broadband Buildout Accountability Act, a bill that would increase transparency for the funds the National Technology Information Administration (NTIA) received in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The broadband grant program being administered under NTIA is currently exempted from requirements under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), decreasing transparency into how those funds are used and making it harder to ensure taxpayer dollars are not misused.
Earlier in February, I held an oversight hearing as the lead Republican on the Appropriations subcommittee that funds NTIA to ensure that this once-in-a-generation investment is spent wisely and to make certain that currently unconnected Kansans are connected by the end of these programs. I will continue to work with my subcommittee and committee colleagues to ensure that the funds allocated to broadband deployment are transparently deployed in line with Congress’ intent.
Meeting with Civic Clubs
Council Grove
On Wednesday, I visited with members of the Council Grove Rotary Club. Our discussion centered around the importance of rural schools, hospitals and businesses, as well as my work to expand broadband coverage for all Kansans and the situation in Ukraine. We also discussed the importance of food production and promoting policies that help Kansas’ producers secure future of Kansas agriculture and their livelihoods, including opposing fertilizer tariffs as farmers and ranchers input costs continue to rise.
Thank you to Rotary President Aron Dody and to all rotary members I spoke with today. As the world feels unpredictable, the work you do to create strong community ties and lift up your fellow neighbors and friends is more important than ever.
Atwood
On Thursday, I was in Atwood to speak with Rotary members. We discussed agricultural profitability, strengthening mental health resources in rural America and reducing wait times for people experiencing mental health crises and in need of immediate care. I spoke to the challenges of getting providers to rural Kansas, and I shared my commitment to working to improve quality mental health care for all Kansans.
As the situation in Ukraine unfolds, those in attendance spoke with me about their concerns regarding the Biden administration’s energy policies and the need for a strong and independent fossil fuel industry to provide stable oil and gas prices for American families. Thank you to Rotary President Deb Minkler, District President Jeff Horlacker, City Councilman Dakota Dunker and Superintendent Eric Stoddard, and to all those who spoke with me yesterday.
Visiting Hospitals in Northwest Kansas
Decatur Health
On Thursday, I visited Decatur Health as leadership and staff continue to provide care to the Oberlin community. Our discussion touched on the implementation of the MISSION Act, my legislation that gives veterans the option to receive care in their community and closer to home, and how to improve the way veterans are able to receive that community care. We also discussed the challenges Decatur Heath faced in 2021, as the hospital experienced its busiest year, and pandemic relief funding distributed by the state.
I am grateful for the opportunity to hear firsthand the experiences of Kansas health care professionals so our state is better prepared to provide rural health care. Thank you to Chad Meyer, Decatur’s CFO, as well as Mayor Garret McDougal, City Manager Halley Roberson and Oberlin’s Chamber Director Shayla Williby for speaking with me.
Logan County Hospital
On Friday, I visited Logan County Hospital to receive an update from its CEO Mel Snow. I was able to see the facility’s new patient rehab wing and speak with hospital leaders about their efforts to build a new facility. Our conversation also touched on Sequestration 340B and how Logan County Hospital retained its staff throughout the pandemic.
I appreciated speaking with Mel, and I thank hospital and community leaders, including COO Aimee Zimmerman, CFO Rechelle Horinek, CIO and City Council Ross Kahle, City Manager Brock Sloan, Hospital Board Member Ron Clark and Rehab Coordinator Gerry Baalmann for taking time to speak with me. I am committed to bolstering Kansas’ rural health care capabilities.
Visiting Kansas Schools
Colby Community College
I toured Colby Community College on Thursday to learn more about the college’s current initiatives, including expanding its agriculture and vet tech program, vital programs to bolster the Colby community, as well as ensure more women and men are able to receive a quality ag education. I was also able to tour CCC’s impressive new athletic facilities, including their indoor baseball and softball training facility, indoor tennis and pickleball courts, and its basketball facility.
Colby Community College’s growing student body is a testament to the college’s focus on preparing students for success down the road in whatever field or career they choose to pursue. Thank you to Colby Community College President Dr. Seth Carter for hosting me yesterday, and for his dedicated efforts on behalf of Colby Community College.
Junction City High School
It was great to visit Junction City High School and visit with staff and students in their new facilities on Monday. Students are provided a wide variety of opportunities for participation in interscholastic athletics and activities, and JCHS also offers industry-based certifications in many programs, including automotive, welding, ServSafe, EMT, CNA and more.
I was pleased to see how this state-of-the-art facility will continue to support the Junction City community as well as Ft. Riley’s strong military presence. Thank you to Science, Engineering and Health Academy Principal Stephen Green, Junction City High School Principal Merrier Tartt, Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston. Career and Technical Education Administrator Becky Coy, JROTC Student Commander Col. Grant Shrader and Fine Arts and Human Services Academy Principal Ruth Stephenson, and students Tim, Zane, Jennifer and Kaya for their time. Read more here from the Junction City Post.
Wallace County High School
While in western Kansas this week, I was pleased to visit with students and faculty at Wallace County High School in Sharon Springs. I appreciate all that our educators have done over the last year to ensure students can come to class and learn side-by-side with their peers. Decisions about education are best made close to home, and I appreciate the time Kansas’ educators take out of their schedules to speak with me – thanks also to students Maddie and Brookley for the tour.
Honoring FHSU’s Dr. Arris Johnson
On Friday, I visited Dr. Arris Johnson, his wife, Virginia and his grandson, Chris McGowne and his wife Sarah, to present Dr. Johnson with framed remarks I entered into the Congressional Record in his honor. Dr. Johnson, a Decatur County-native, lifelong Kansan and Hays resident, celebrated his 100th birthday this past November, a rare and impressive milestone.
Six weeks before his graduation from Fort Hays State University, he was called to serve our nation in the U.S. Army during World War II. Following his service, he returned to Kansas to continue his education, and upon completing his bachelor’s degree at FHSU and master’s degree at Kansas State University, he again returned to FHSU where he taught in the Department of Education for nearly three decades before retiring in 1985. As a beloved husband, father, grandfather and veteran, Arris is a tribute to our Greatest Generation, and a grateful nation and our state thank him for his service. I thank Dr. Johnson for his service and his friendship, and I congratulate him on a century of a life well-lived.
Attending the Goodland Tech and Northwest Kansas Technical College Economic Development Announcement
On Friday, I joined representatives from Goodland Tech, the Northwest Kansas Technical College (NWKTC) and the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center (NWKEIC) to announce a new partnership that will provide Northwest Kansas with many well-paying jobs. Goodland Tech and NWKTC, with support from NWKEIC, are partnering to provide students work experience at Goodland Tech while they are educated at NWKTC. After students complete the program, they will have the opportunity to continue at Goodland Tech with a paid apprenticeship.
This partnership provides a mutually-beneficial situation where the students gain the experience and knowledge necessary to be exemplary employees, while providing a pipeline of students trained and equipped to fill open positions at a time when tech jobs are in very high demand. I look forward to remaining engaged with Goodland Tech, NWTC, NWKEIC, and the community of Goodland to ensure this community continues to attract cutting-edge opportunities like this one.
Thank you to President Ben Shears, Richard Sparrow, Ben Coumerilh, and Scott Sproul for inviting me to speak at the announcement event, and for their work on this project and dedication to the community of Goodland and people of Northwest Kansas. See more from my visit by clicking here or below.
National FFA Week
Last week was National FFA Week. Thank you to Kansas FFA Association’s commitment to the success of our state’s next generation of farmers and the contributions its students make to ensure Kansas’ strong agriculture leadership.
America’s Ongoing Blood Shortage
America continues to face a critical blood shortage, with Kansas’ blood supply standing at a 1-2 day inventory. COVID-19 has added extra volatility to the blood supply, and this shortage continues to strain hospitals and patient care throughout Kansas.
I’ve heard from medical professionals in Kansas about the tough decisions rural Kansas doctors and health care providers are having to make – including cancelling surgeries and blood transfusions, and possibly not delivering babies because bleeding complications may require blood that these facilities do not have. This shortage is severe, and it is affecting Kansas health care providers and their ability to care for patients. Kansans pull together in times of need, and I encourage you to donate.
Donation centers provide specific guidance on the blood donation process and safety measures taken within their centers. Locations for blood donation can be found at the following organization websites below.
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
Turn around is the halfway point for session. It’s the day when a bill dies if it was not ‘blessed’, which means that it had not been in an exempt committee or that it did not pass the originating chamber (either the House or the Senate). The three exempt committees in the Senate are: Taxation, Federal and State Affairs, and Ways and Means. There were 18 bills in the House that died and 0 in the Senate so far.
There are many bills that never make it out of committee. To give you an idea, this year at turnaround, the Senate still has 382 bills in committee and the House has 510. The Senate has passed 55 bills and the House has passed 47 – the Senate bills need to pass the House, and the House bills need to pass the Senate before going to the Governor. The Governor can sign them into law, let them go into law without her signature, or veto them. If the Governor vetoes a bill – the legislature can override a veto with a 2/3 majority vote.
Turnaround week is very intense. Monday evening, senators received a list of 23 bills that were to be debated on Tuesday. Tuesday evening, we received a list of 11 bills to be debated Wednesday. There were too many bills to cover in this update, but you can find all the bills at www.kslegislature.org.
Property Rights have been protected since the founding of our country. We shouldn’t have to pass legislation for those protections, but we do. Senate Bill (SB) 395 would require a warrant, court order, subpoena, or permission by the landowner for Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) to put any recording device on your property. Currently the KDWP has the authority to enter your property without your knowledge, set up cameras and monitor those cameras, this is just wrong. No other law enforcement officials have this right. The bill was watered down in the Judiciary Committee. Working with other legislators, I helped reverse the watered down version on the floor. The bill passed the Senate 30 to 9. I voted Yes to protect your property rights.
A person burglarized a church and a judge ruled that the person was invited so they couldn’t be charged with burglary. Let’s get this straight, a person steals from a locked sanctuary and a judge rules the person had a right to burglarize the church because “the person had been invited” into the unlocked area of the church. It is so ridiculous that a judge would rule that way. What else makes little sense is that SB 366 was introduced to make clear it is a crime to burglarize a locked building. Current statute says a “building, manufactured home, mobile home, tent or other structure which is not a dwelling” cannot be burglarized, but the Senate thinks adding “locked building” will help. It should be that no one can burglarize or steal another person’s property. If this bill becomes law, will it be interpreted by another judge that a person can burglarize an unlocked building? The bill passed 39 to 1. I was a No vote to protect property, whether the building is locked or unlocked.
Rules and Regulations written by the Administration have the rule of law. SB 34 would require that all Rules and Regulations be reviewed every five years and establish an alternative revocation procedure. This bill is long overdue. I voted Yes. The bill passed 32 to 7.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Health Advisory, Safety Tips Issued During Flint Hills Burning Season Smoke Modeling Tool to be activated on March 1
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) reminds Kansans that March and April are the months when large areas of the state’s Flint Hills rangeland are burned. These burns help preserve the tallgrass prairie, control invasive species, reduce woody encroachment from species such as Eastern Red Cedar and Sumac and provide better forage for cattle. Prescribed burning minimizes risk of wildfires and is effective in managing rangeland resources. Smoke from the burns can influence the air quality of downwind areas. The use of smoke management techniques is vital to reduce air quality and health impacts.
KDHE will activate the Kansas smoke modeling tool on March 1, prior to widespread burning in the Flint Hills. The computer models use fire data and current weather conditions to predict the potential contribution of smoke to downwind air quality problems. There are approximately 2.2 million acres burned on average in the Flint Hills of Kansas and Oklahoma each year.
“For the twelfth-consecutive year, we are proud to have the opportunity to provide this important tool for the prescribed fire community,” said Douglas Watson, meteorologist at the KDHE Bureau of Air. “We continue to encourage ranchers and land managers to take advantage of this smoke modeling resource to spread out their burns more effectively and mitigate potential air quality impacts.”
Prescribed burns release large amounts of particulate matter and other pollutants that can form ozone. Particulate matter and ozone can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals. Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing and illnesses such as bronchitis. Individuals with respiratory issues, pre-existing heart or lung diseases, children and elderly are more vulnerable to experience symptoms.
Steps to protect your health on days when smoke is present in your community include:
Healthy people should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor
More vulnerable people should remain
Help keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and running air conditioners with air
Stay hydrated by drinking lots of
Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath or severe
For more information about the burning in the Flint Hills, the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan, the April burn restrictions and the smoke modeling tool, please visit http://www.ksfire.org.
There is an opening on the Fort Scott Street Advisory Board Committee:
One City resident
The function of the Fort Scott Street Advisory Board Committee is to provide suggestions to the City Manager and Governing Body regarding road improvement projects throughout the City of Fort Scott. When submitting your letter/email of interest, please provide any specific knowledge or training you have that would compliment you being a member of this board.
If you have a desire to serve on this board and meet the above requirements, please submit a letter of interest to the City Clerk, Diane Clay, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. These names will be submitted for consideration to the City Commission. All of the boards and commissions serve on a volunteer basis and are not compensated. If you would like more information on this board, please contact Diane Clay, City Clerk at 620-223-0550 or [email protected]. Please submit your letter of interest by March 11th, 2022.
County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: March 1, 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
• County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
▫ Grants
▫ 2022 Calendar of Events
▫ Executive Session – 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
▫ Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property
• Public Comment
• Elected Officials Comment
• Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session: KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy KSA 75-4319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship KSA 75-4319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency KSA 75-4319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships KSA 75-4319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property KSA 75-4319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL
CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
MARCH 1, 2022
6:00 P.M.
Roll Call:
P. Allen J. Jones T. Van Hoecke M. Wells K. Allen
II. Flag Salute:
Invocation: Led by: Mark McCoy, Project Manager
Proclamations/Recognitions: Marsha Lancaster Day Proclamation
Consent Agenda:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of February 15th, 2022, special meetings of February 16th, 2022, February 18th, 2022, and February 22nd, 2022.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1307-A totaling $232,065.68.
Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering Associates – $8,092.91 – Lake Lot Surveys
Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering Associates – $800.00 – Resurvey Lake Lots 8 & 9
Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. – January legal fees – $1,627.50
A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held February 22nd, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Josh Jones, Tim Van Hoecke, and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Kevin Allen presiding. Pete Allen was absent.
AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Brad Matkin, Seth Simpson (via phone), and Travis Shelton.
Discussion of Airport Runway Overlay Project
T. Van Hoecke said that he had reviewed the Ward Kraft hangar agreement and this agreement lasts until 2025. On the second page of the agreement, it states that the City will maintain the apron and taxiway sufficient to support loads and stresses associated with Ward Kraft’s flight operations. He said that the City doesn’t have an option not to include this section in the project.
City Manager said that this overlay project is a $2,280,654.00 with a 90/10% match. The City match is $266,500.00. The amount to include the Ward Kraft hangar is $35,638.25 and is not included in the City match.
T. Van Hoecke moved to move forward with the F.A.A. grant and to include the Ward Kraft section of the project also. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE F.A.A. GRANT AND TO INCLUDE THE WARD KRAFT SECTION OF THE PROJECT ALSO. THIS IS A 90/10% GRANT WITH THE CITY MATCH BEING $266,500.00 AND THE SECTION FOR THE WARD KRAFT HANGAR AMOUNTING TO $35,638.25.
ADJOURNMENT:
J. Jones moved to adjourn the special meeting at 5:11 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held February 18th, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Pete Allen, Josh Jones, and Tim Van Hoecke were present with Mayor Kevin Allen presiding. Matthew Wells was absent.
AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Brad Matkin, Seth Simpson, and Travis Shelton.
Discussion of Airport Runway Overlay Project – City Manager said that this overlay project has a projected cost of $2,280,654.00 and has a 90/10% match. The City match is $266,500.00. As part of the project the overlay will be a 1” leveling project with a 2” asphalt overlay. F.A.A. will only cover the actual runway and not any entrances into hangars. This will affect the entrance into the Ward Kraft hangar. The amount to include the Ward Kraft hangar is $35,638.25 and is not included in the City match.
Discussion was held regarding the hangar contract between the City and Ward Kraft and how much longer was left on it. There is two years left.
City Attorney recommended contacting Ward Kraft and seeing if they would terminate the agreement early.
Seth Simpson said that it would not matter if it is City property or not, as it is a entrance into a single hangar. They will only pay for the runway extension. The timeframe is for the project to be published with the Request for Bids on February 26th, 2022 with bids to open on March 24th, 2022 and the deadline for the grant application is April 1st, 2022.
Discussion was held if the Commission could consider this and have a special meeting before the work session on February 22nd, 2022.
Seth said that there would still be enough time to apply.
P. Allen said that this is a humungous amount of money for a runway overlay.
Seth said that asphalt costs have raised from $80.00 a ton to $120.00 a ton.
J. Jones moved to table and hold a special meeting on Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022 before the work session. T. Van Hoecke seconded. J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-1.
APPROVED TO TABLE THIS ITEM AND HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, 2022 BEFORE THE WORK SESSION.
Executive Session:
J. Jones moved to recess into Executive Session for the attorney-client privilege exception for contract negotiations in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) until 1:30 p.m. This will include City Commissioners, City Manager, and City Attorney. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
J. Jones moved to come out of Executive Session at 1:30 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
Executive Session:
J. Jones moved to recess into Executive Session for the attorney-client privilege exception for contract negotiations in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) until 1:45 p.m. This will include City Commissioners, City Manager, and City Attorney. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
J. Jones moved to come out of Executive Session at 1:45 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
Executive Session:
J. Jones moved to recess into Executive Session for the attorney-client privilege exception for contract negotiations in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) until 1:50 p.m. This will include City Commissioners, City Manager, and City Attorney. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
J. Jones moved to come out of Executive Session at 1:50 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
3. Sale of Lake Property: City Manager said that per the City Commission, they determined that a proper deadline was not given for the sale of the two Lake Fort Scott properties that the original buyer previously backed out of. He asked to advertise until March 1st, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. He asked all bidders to work with Bailey Lyons of Lyons Realty for Lot #9, and with Scott Theis, of Stutesman Action Realty for Lot #8. If they wish to submit a final bid or if wish to have an escalating offer as all non-escalating offers will be considered as the maximum offer.
J. Jones made a motion to extend the deadline offers for the sale of Lots 8 and 9 at Lake Fort Scott until 5:30 p.m. on March 1st, 2022. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.
approved to extend the deadline offers for the sale of lake fort scott lots 8 and 9 until 5:30 p.m. on march 1st, 2022.
ADJOURNMENT:
J. Jones moved to adjourn the special meeting at 1:55 p.m. T. Van Hoecke seconded. All voted aye.
