Category Archives: Government
No Bourbon County Commission Meeting On November 24
The Commission Meeting on Monday 11/24/25 has been canceled due to lack of quorum.
Susan E. Walker
Bourbon County Clerk
Unapproved Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on November 11
The Regular Council Meeting on November 11, 2025 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was Michael Ramsey, Joe George, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Moved by Stewart, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0, to approve Ordinance No. 207, Vacating Alley between Lots 4, 5, 12 and 13, Block 2, Well’s Addition of the City of Uniontown, Kansas.
Discussion of memorial stone design and installation. Further thought and research will be discussed at a later date.
CITIZENS REQUEST
Joe George commented of two habitual dogs running at large. Citation will be issued to the owner of the dogs at large.
Michael Ramsey asked about official election results. At this time, no final election results have been released.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Johnson presented the October 2025 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $226,781.89, Receipts $34,948.70, Transfers Out $3,024.00, Expenditures $38,944.50, Checking Account Closing Balance $219,762.09. Bank Statement Balance $225,361.81, including Checking Account Interest of $49.67, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $5,599.72, Reconciled Balance $219,762.09. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $38,501.14, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $23,159.28, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $45,414.89, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $326,837.40. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $578.48, and Utility CDs $1,920.63 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $2,449.11. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of October 2025, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. October Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00, for Total Transfers of $3,024.00. Net Loss for the month of October $7,019.80, Year-to-Date Net Loss $44,101.65. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $107,340.87 (79.7%), Expenditures $103,176.20 (67.6%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $29,485.11 (79.2%), Expenditures $35,208.17 (76.3%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $95,286.09 (76.9%), Expenditures $101,689.36 (63.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $154,613.74 (103.3%), Expenditures $204,046.64 (95.5%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,101.28 (111.6%), Expenditures $5,166.76 (71.2%). The October 2025 payables to date in the amount of $26,571.99 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
- Minutes of October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
- October Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & November Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan reported 301 2nd St. had been cleaned up and in compliance. 101 Washington has had no change since last meeting, a citation had previously been issued and awaiting court date. 401 Sherman not in compliance after phone call was made to property owner, citation will be issued to the individuals residing on the property and one will be mailed to property owner.
City Superintendent Bobby Rich had nothing to report.
Clerk Arnold informed the council that the 3-50amp 240 volt outlets had been installed in the park.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – nothing
Councilwoman Pemberton – Invited any volunteers to install Christmas lights in the park the weekend before Thanksgiving
Councilwoman Pritchett – nothing
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – nothing
OLD BUSINESS
SEED Grant – Close out paperwork has been submitted and accepted. Treasurer Johnson has made substantial progress on the library.
FEMA Flooding– Once an invoice from Marbery Concrete is received for the remainder of the project, it will be submitted for review. Invoice is due before mid-January.
NEW BUSINESS
Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:45PM.
No action from executive session.
Moved by
Bronson Receives $199K Grant for Sidewalks And Playground Equipment
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KS Health/Environment Launches New Wastewater Monitoring Dashboard
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Kansas Campsite Reservations For 2026 Available December 1
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Revised Agenda for the Bourbon County Commission

Agenda Packet for the Fort Scott Community College on November 17, This Evening
To view the total packet:11.17.25 Consent Agenda
November 17, 2025
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
November 17, 2025. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Boileau-Burris Hall at Fort Scott
Community College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
BOARD PRAYER
MISSION STATEMENT
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of culture and diversity that
provides affordable academic, technical and occupational programs to meet student needs while fostering a
mutually supportive relationship between the college and its communities.
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
C. Recognitions and Retirements, 4
PROGRAM REVIEW AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 9
A. Approval of Agenda, 9
Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on October 20, 2025 and Special
Meeting conducted October 17, 2025, 10
B. Approval Treasurer’s Report, 13
C. Approval of Personnel Actions, 9
ACTION ITEMS, 24
A. Consideration of Alcohol Policy Exception, 24
B. Consideration of Cheerleading Proposal, 25
C. Consideration of Soccer Proposal, 27
CORRESPONDENCE AND TRUSTEE COMMENTS, 32
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 35
ADJOURNMENT, 361
November 14, 2025 Board Workshop
November 17, 2025 Board Meeting
December 12, 2025 Board Workshop
December 15, 2025 Board Meeting
January 23, 2026 Board Workshop
January 26, 2026 (Changed from January 19 due to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day) Board Meeting
February 13, 2026 Board Workshop
February 16, 2026 Board Meeting
March 13, 2026* adjusted for spring break Board Workshop
March 23, 2026 (Changed from March 16 due to spring break) Board Meeting
April 17, 2026 Board Workshop
April 20, 2026 Board Meeting
May 14, 2026* adjusted for graduation Board Workshop
May 18, 2026 Board Meeting
June 11, 2026* adjusted for summer schedule Board Workshop
June 15, 2026 Board Meeting
Sincerely,
Bryan Holt, Chair
Dr. Jack Welch, President
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a
central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and
departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective
processes; and developing the region’s workforce.
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:2
ROLL CALL
_____ Ronda Bailey
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Chad McKinnis
_____ Doug Ropp
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
C. RECOGNITIONS AND RETIREMENTS
Math Relays
Greyhound Student Leadership Organization
PROGRAM REVIEW AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES
A. MARKETING PLAN REVIEW
B. PLEASANTON CAMPUS UPDATE4
President’s Update to the Board of Trustees
November 2025
Community colleges across the country are rethinking how they grow. In a time of limited
budgets, shifting student demographics, and rising competition, adding a new athletic or
academic program isn’t just about filling schedules, it’s about long-term sustainability. The
institutions that thrive are those that plan with purpose. I’d like to share some updates and
reflections from Greyhound Nation.
Academic and Program Development
The first step in program growth is simple but often overlooked: research the community.
Successful colleges study local high schools, club participation, and workforce data before
adding programs. They talk to parents, coaches, employers, and students to learn what truly
sparks interest. Without that groundwork, even the best-intentioned programs risk falling flat.
As part of our continued community engagement, two events are further strengthening our
connections:
• Town Hall Meeting: Tuesday, November 11, 2025, 5:45–6:45 p.m. in the Ellis Building
Auditorium on the Fort Scott Campus. We received several good ideas from our
community about things to add at FSCC.
• John Deere Program Open House: Friday, November 14, 2025, 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. at
the John Deere Tech Building
When adding programs, cost analysis is critical. Each new program carries hidden expenses,
facilities, equipment, salaries, insurance, travel, and maintenance. I want to commend Ben Souza
and Jared Wheeler for their excellent presentation outlining these factors in a clear, data-driven
matrix.
A smart strategic approach, as Jared noted, is to identify a niche rather than competing directly
with nearby universities. Community colleges thrive when they specialize in programs that fill
unmet needs, strengthening both recruitment and institutional identity.
Equally important is involving faculty and staff from the beginning. Those closest to our students
often hold the best insights. When included from concept to implementation, the result is
stronger programs and deeper collaboration.
After reviewing data presented by Ben and Jared, faculty and staff voted to recommend adding
two new programs for next year, which I am bringing forward for approval at our November
board meeting:
• Non-Competitive Cheerleading
• Men’s and Women’s Soccer5
Research consistently shows that forward-thinking colleges create career-connected and student-
driven experiences. FSCC will continue to explore new opportunities while maintaining a
deliberate pace to ensure sustainability and success.
Campus Life and Student Engagement
Our Greyhound Student Leadership Organization continues to impress with thoughtful input and
creative ideas. Recently, they proposed adding a student game room to enhance campus life and
provide a welcoming space for students to relax and connect. A pool and ping pong tables have
been located in the north west room of the cafeteria, marking a new game room space for the
student body. Our students deserve a vibrant space to unwind, build friendships, and experience
the full life of the college.
Institutional Planning and Organization
Following the completion of our HLC visit, we have begun a thoughtful internal restructuring
process. Faculty and staff are now engaged through committees focused on:
• Mission Statement and Strategic Plan
• Non-Academic Program (Sunset) Review
• Job Description and Salary Structure
• Facility Plan
• Scholarship Plan
• Accreditation Committee
These efforts will strengthen transparency, inclusion, and collaboration as we align our
institutional goals with student and community needs.
Legislative Outreach
In the last month, I have met with Senator Tim Shallenberger, and also had a productive visit
with Representative Rick James, who expressed strong support after hearing about our high
academic standing and community impact.
Institutional Achievements
Greyhound Nation continues to shine:
• 2nd out of 19 Kansas community colleges in 2-Year to 4-Year Transfer GPA
• 6th in total transfer of all completed courses
• Serving 324 Bourbon County students (182 high school / 142 adult)
• Generating 2,929 total credit hours (1,279 high school / 1,650 adult)
Senator Shallenberger and Representative James were particularly impressed by these results, a
direct reflection of our faculty and staff’s dedication.
Athletics and the Arts
Athletics are in full swing, and it’s inspiring to see so many faculty and staff supporting our
teams.
• Women’s Basketball opened the season with three impressive home wins.
• Men’s Basketball dominated Avila University JV with a 111-point performance
showcasing skill, teamwork, and discipline.
• Special thanks to Chris Goddard and our incredible pep band for creating an electric
atmosphere during one of the home games.
Our performing arts program also continues to flourish. The recent production of “The
Fantasticks,” directed by Alan Twitchell, was outstanding, a true testament to our students’
creativity and talent.
Community and Fundraising
A heartfelt thank-you to Lindsay Hill and everyone who helped organize the Big Benefit
Auction, raising $30,000. The event was well attended and raised generous funds that will
directly support student scholarships, a great example of teamwork in action.
Looking Ahead
As we turn our focus toward enrollment management and strategic planning, our goal is to
increase enrollment by at least 200 students next fall while expanding our winter, spring, and
summer sessions.
We’ll also begin developing a new strategic plan and mission statement to guide FSCC into the
future.
Following Monday’s board meeting, we’ll hold our Conversation Meeting on Tuesday at
2:00 p.m. in the Round Room, combined with our Cabinet Meeting so all faculty and staff can
attend.
Our Admissions Office has built a robust recruitment plan, our CTE programs continue to thrive,
and both the Frame Grant and ARPA Grant projects are progressing with construction expected
to begin soon. A comprehensive Facilities Plan is also underway to ensure meaningful
improvements across campus.
Closing Thoughts
Whether in business or in the classroom, success is never accidental. It’s the result of inspired
leadership, intentional design, and a shared belief that great things are possible.
That’s what makes Fort Scott Community College so special, you are part of that leadership.
Together, we’re building not only a strong regional community college, but one that truly serves
its people with excellence, purpose, and heart.
Thank you for your commitment, collaboration, and care for our students. Let’s keep moving
forward, together.
Jack
Amended Agenda for the FS City Commission on November 17
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
November 18, 2025 – 6:00 P.M.
AMENDED
- Call to Order/Roll Call
- Pledge of Allegiance
III. Invocation
- Approval of Agenda
- Consent Agenda
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1396-A – Expense Approval Report –
Payment Dates of November 1, 2025 – November 11, 2025 – $190,896.79
- Approval of Minutes: Special Meeting of November 1, 2025, and Regular Meeting of
November 3, 2025
- October Financials
- Approval of 2026 Cereal Malt Beverage (CMB) Licenses: Walmart, G&W Foods and
Casey’s General Store
- Public Comment
VII. Appearances
- Lisa Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator – Consideration of Resolution No. 39-2025 – A Resolution to Support the Main Street Program
VIII. Unfinished Business
- New Business
Public Hearings:
- Consideration of Resolution No. 40-2025 – A Resolution Of The Governing Body Of The City Of Fort Scott, Kansas Determining The Advisability Of Issuing Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds For The Purpose Of Financing The Acquisition, Renovation, Furnishing, And Equipping Of A Commercial Facility Located In The City; And Authorizing Execution Of Related Documents – Fort Scott Dialysis – 2526 S. Main Street – Dominic Eck/Gilmore & Bell
- Consideration of Resolution No. 25-2025 – Resolution Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 18 S. HOLBROOK – Tabled from September 16, 2025
- Consideration of Resolution No. 35-2025 A Resolution Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 1815 E. OAK – L. Kruger
- Consideration of Resolution No. 36-2025 Resolution Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 1626 E. PINE – L. Kruger
- Consideration of Resolution No. 37-2025 A Resolution Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 1403 E. OAK – L. Kruger
- Consideration of Resolution No. 38-2025 A Resolution Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 505 S. COUCH – L. Kruger
Action Items:
- Consideration of Proposals for Fort Scott Lake Lift Station – B. Lemke and S. Flater
- Consideration of 2026 City Holiday Schedule – B. Matkin
- Consideration of Ordinance No. 3791 – An Ordinance Providing For The Salaries Of The Appointive Officers And Employees Of The City Of Fort Scott, KS And Replacing Ordinance No. 3779 – B. Matkin
- D. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3787 – An Ordinance Amending Chapter 10.04 0f The Fort Scott Municipal Code To Incorporate The Standard Traffic Ordinance By Reference Repealing And Replacing Ordinance No. 3772.
- Consideration of Ordinance No. 3788 – An Ordinance Increasing the Basic Monthly Charge for Sanitary Sewer Rates in the City of Fort Scott by Amending Chapter 13.24.100 and 13.24.110 of the Fort Scott Municipal Code and Repealing Ordinance No. 3778
- Consideration of Ordinance No. 3789 – An Ordinance Setting New Water Rates and Repealing Ordinance No. 3777 for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas, Pursuant to the Fort Scott Municipal Code, Chapter 13.04.030.
- Consideration of Ordinance No. 3790 – An Ordinance Amending the Fort Scott Stormwater User Charge and Repealing Ordinance No. 3776 for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County, Kansas, Pursuant to the Fort Scott Municipal Code, Chapter 13.24.121
- Discussion of Ordinance for Limit on Number of Dogs
- Reports and Comments
- Adjourn
Input Sought On Public Lands Trail Cameras
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Bourbon County Commission Agenda Packet for November 17
The Bourbon County Agenda for their meeting on 11.17.25 at 5:30 PM at 210 S National Avenue. There will also be the final canvassing of election results at 5:15 PM.
Susan E. Walker
Bourbon County Clerk
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall’s Weekly Newsletter















