Category Archives: Government

Government, Kansas

Kansas Tops Nation in Economic Growth Over Fall 2023 

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~~Kansas’ Economic Growth Was #1 in the Nation in the 3rd Quarter of 2023,
#2 in the Nation in the 2nd Quarter~~ 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today celebrated that, according to data released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the Kansas economy grew by 9.7% in the 3rd quarter of 2023 — the fastest rate in the nation. This improves on an already impressive record of economic growth; in the 2nd quarter of 2023, Kansas’ economy grew at the second-fastest rate in the nation at 7.4%.

“This data shows that our efforts to support businesses, create a stable economy, and grow our workforce are paying off,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Now, Kansas is outstripping the entire nation in economic growth and attracting business investment. Last week, I announced Kansas surpassed $18 billion in business investment since I took office in 2019. It’s clear we have the momentum to continue this trajectory of economic success into 2024 and beyond.”

The Kelly Administration’s work to support the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting industries helped drive this economic growth. While those industries decreased nationally and in 33 other states, they were leading contributors to growth in Kansas.

Kansas also ranked third in the nation for growth in personal income, with personal income growing at 4.9% over the 3rd quarter of 2023. Farming, which decreased nationally and in 41 other states, was the leading contributor to the increased earnings in Kansas.

Kansas’ economic growth is measured by the change in its real gross domestic product (GDP), or the market value of goods and services produced in the state. The second quarter of 2023 included April through June; the third quarter included July through September.

Government, Kansas

Kansas Non-resident Turkey Permits Begin January 9

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Application Period for Non-resident Turkey Permits to Begin January 9

SHAWNEE – Non-resident hunters who wish to obtain a 2024 Kansas spring turkey permit may submit an application for the all-new lottery draw from January 9 through February 9, 2024. Non-resident hunters may apply for a permit – valid only in a single unit – in Units 1, 2, 3, 5, or 6; a $10 application fee will apply. Similar to Kansas’ non-resident deer permit draw, any leftover non-resident spring turkey permits will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis shortly after the draw.

To apply for a 2024 non-resident turkey permit:

  1. Visit gooutdoorskansas.com between the dates of 01/09/24 – 02/09/24.
  2. Select “Purchase Licenses, Permits, & Tags”
  3. Login to your account
  4. Select “Limited Draw Applications”

NOTE: Hunters who qualify as a “resident” or “non-resident tenant” may still purchase a spring turkey permit in Units 1, 2, 3, 5, or 6 either over the counter or online beginning March 5.

The all-new lottery draw is part of a larger strategy by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to reduce overall hunting pressure and turkey harvest in Kansas in response to declining turkey populations nationwide.

Staff first recommended to Commissioners a lottery draw for non-resident turkey permits in August 2022, after which it remained a regular public meeting agenda item until voted on by the Commission on June 22, 2023 – the group’s sixth meeting to examine and discuss the recommendation.

For more on turkey hunting in Kansas ­– including season dates, other special draws, and how to obtain an electronic permit – click HERE.

Bourbon County, Government

Minutes of the Bourbon County Commission on December 11

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December 11, 2023                                                                         Monday, 5:30 p.m.

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present.

 

Leroy Kruger, Teri Hulsey, Jason Silvers, Dale Griffiths, Jon Lowry, Michaela Hawthorne, Michael Hoyt, Clint Walker, and Kevin Schafer were present for some or all of the meeting.

 

Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute followed by a prayer led by Nelson Blythe.

 

Nelson made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes approval of minutes from 12/4/23. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.

 

During public comments Leroy Kruger introduced himself and stated he is a lifelong resident of Bourbon County and announced his plan to run for Sheriff in 2024. Mr. Kruger stated he is a former Chief Deputy with the Sheriff’s Department and his promise for running is to lower the budget and bring peace and unity back to local government. Troy Felt spoke again of Medicaid expansion and voiced his concern of subsidizing and ER. Mr. Felt said he wants a hospital back not just and emergency room. Dale Griffiths said he is a resident of western Bourbon County and that he watches every commission meeting on YouTube and would like to talk about how constituents are treated when they have a differing opinion. Mr. Griffiths stated it comes across that our Commission treats its constituents as smaller or lower class than them when we have a differing opinion and he asked the Commission to keep that in mind in the future. Mr. Griffiths said he understands that things can get heated but just because someone is questioning what the Commission is operating on or has come up with different facts than them doesn’t mean we should belittle them.

 

Senator Tim Shallenburger introduced himself to the Commissioners and stated he is the State Senator for the 13th District. Mr. Shallenburger stated his was a banker by profession, served in the legislature in the 90s, was State Treasurer, and Mayor of Baxter Springs until he was elected in January to replace Richard Hilderbrand. Mr. Shallenburger touched on Medicaid expansion and said that will come up again in Topeka as well as tax reform at the state level. Mr. Shallenburger said the next session starts in January and that he currently sits on the Transportation Committee and recommends talking to KDOT about projects in our county and to participate in grant programs that are available at the state level. Jim asked Senator Shallenburger if he thinks the Governor will be successful with Medicaid expansion and the Senator responded that he has not seen the bill and does not know what she is proposing or what will be included in the bill. Mr. Shallenburger spoke how the delivery of healthcare has changed and does not feel that if Medicaid expansion is approved that it wouldn’t open a hospital in Fort Scott. Clifton stated he is disappointed in both sides for using the ER closing as political gain but not offering to help. Clifton said he is not talking about Senator Shallenburger and appreciates the Senator for coming but he doesn’t put a lot of faith in Topeka.

 

Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, stated Purple Wave was there today getting information on equipment that will be selling in the January 9th auction. Eric said there was a culvert that began to collapse last week east of 120th Street on Kansas Road. The culvert is in a flood plain so they are working with Ag Engineering to perform a hydraulic study. There are barricades up but residents are still able to get by to access their property. Eric informed the Commissioners of a solid waste compliance inspection that happened at the landfill on November 29th. There was only one violation and that was due to not notifying KDHE within their specified time frame of a fire that occurred at the compost site. Eric stated they have received the trailer for the special bridge crew. Eric said his crew would like to thank the Commission for the longevity pay and holiday dinner. Jim said to thank them for doing a good job.

 

Teri Hulsey, EMS Director, stated she wanted to let the community know that Bourbon County EMS isn’t going anywhere. There has been a lot of talk and concern in the community and Teri wanted to allay their fears. Teri said she has noticed the marquee is off at the Hospital building and is checking about getting a Bourbon County EMS sign to place along the highway. Teri said there have been a lot of questions about where they will transport patients and Teri stated they have to go to the closest appropriate facility. Teri said the ER will be closing on December 20th and they will be implementing all call. They have two trucks that are manned 24/7 and when both trucks go out, they will send out an all call which will notify employees to come into the station to be ready to provide service if additional 911 calls come in.

 

Shane Walker requested an executive session.

Clifton made a motion to go into a 5-mnute executive session under KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures to include all three Commissioners, Justin Meeks, and Shane Walker and will return at 6:15. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:15 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Justin Meeks, County Counselor, requested a 15-minute executive session.

 

Nelson made a motion to go into a 15-mnute 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 to include all three Commissioners, Justin Meeks, and Rob Harrington and will return at 6:31. Jim seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:31 with action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Justin asked for permission to schedule with Rob an emergency evening meeting with the City Commission, Mr. Farmer, the possibility of City bond council, and our Commissioners.

 

Clifton made a motion to have an emergency meeting before our next regularly scheduled meeting and if the meeting happens it will consist more than likely of an executive session most likely due to KSA 75-4319(b)(4) and they will make that motion at the start of the meeting if needed. Nelson seconded the motion and added Tuesday or Wednesday night would be good for him and the other Commissioners stated they are available those nights as well. All approved the motion.

 

Nelson had no comments during the Commission comments section. Clifton said as someone who works in healthcare, he agrees with Medicaid expansion and that the fearmongering people put out isn’t backed up with facts. Clifton said if Medicaid expansion does happen, we wouldn’t have people knocking on our door to open a hospital. Clifton said that Senator Moran is introducing a bill to change the REH date to 2015 and said the Senator has listened to all the phone calls he received. Clifton thanked Senator Moran and stated he hopes they can get that passed in Washington. Jim also thanked Senator Moran for introducing the bill.

 

Nelson made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:39. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.

 

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

___________________, Chairman

___________________, Commissioner

ATTEST:                                                                                   ___________________, Commissioner

 

Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Clerk

12-18-2023                 Approved Date

 

 

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

Statewide Transportation Improvement Program Comments Sought

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KDOT requesting comments on STIP amendment
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) document.

The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System. The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp.  In addition to the project list is Administrative Modification #2 for narrative updates in the STIP.

The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes Jan. 3. To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at (785) 296-3254.

This information is available in alternative accessible formats. To obtain an alternative format, contact the KDOT Division of Communications, (785) 296-3585 (Voice/Hearing Impaired-711).

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Bourbon County, Government

Unofficial Minutes of the Uniontown City Council for December 12

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The Regular Council Meeting on December 12, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 8:00PM, due to schedule conflict with school activity, by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger (8:01), Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, City Superintendent Bobby Rich and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Mayor Jurgensen presented a plaque of appreciation to outgoing councilmember Josh Hartman

 

404 Washington repair followup – Mr O’Dell did not appear.  Exterior of structure is not completed but has been made safe and secure.  Exterior and interior work is continuing.

 

USD 235, Vance Eden – Mr Eden forgot after the music program.  He wanted to address the council about support for a proposed grant project to construct preschool/daycare classrooms, office spaces, and community space for fitness center and computer lab.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, 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 job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:12PM

 

Meeting resumed at 8:12PM, no action taken.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the November 2023 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $393,424.49, Receipts $38,253.45, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $184,870.35, Checking Account Closing Balance $243,781.59. Bank Statement Balance $252,410.86, including Checking Account Interest of $71.68, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $8,629.27, Reconciled Balance $243,781.59.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,562.47, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $20,047.08, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,841.33, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $331,232.47. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $869.87, and Utility CDs $1,049.90 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,919.77.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of November 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  November Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00; for Total Transfers of $3,026.00.  Net Loss for the month of November $149,642.90, Year-to-Date Net Loss $99,770.38.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $109,948.84 (90.0%), Expenditures $103,590.71 (64.7%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $33,931.68 (92.0%), Expenditures $27,021.56 (65.6%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $120,906.83 (77.2%), Expenditures $120,058.49 (53.3%); General Fund YTD Revenue $170,695.62 (114.0%), Expenditures $142,559.66 (77.0%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,152.71 (109.3%), Expenditures $8,841.12 (75.6%).  The December 2023 estimated payables to date in the amount of $69,435.50 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda as amended:

  • Minutes of November 14, 2023 Regular Council Meeting and November 27, 2023 Special Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported a sewer issue at 100 Second St.  It is unsure whether the leaking line is the city’s or the property owners.  Council directed him to determine the ownership of the line and fix if it is the city’s line.

He reported that the labor for the water valve replacement is estimated at $4,720 and estimated to be 12 weeks out.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to table labor for valve replacement until January meeting

 

Rich asked about a water meter replacement plan.  This will be put on the January agenda under new business.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan was not in attendance.  Johnson reported that Animal Control Officer is monitoring the dogs at large on Washington Street and taking appropriate action.

 

Clerk Johnson received a request for donation for SOS (Send Off Seniors) party.  Historically the city donates $100.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0 to donate $100 to 2024 SOS Party

 

Johnson asked to not renew Zoom subscription.  It has been used twice in the last three years.  Council agreed to non-renew as we can always reactivate if needed.  She did receive a late notice for renewal of smoothwall and did get it paid and renewed.

She also gave an update from the December 5 KDHE public meeting on the Lead Service Line Inventory being required by EPA and KDHE.  KDHE does have grants available for assistance in getting accurate information for the inventory.  Midwest Assistance Program (MAP) also has technical assistance available.  She will be attending a MAP webinar in January.  Some of the testing processes are changing and the acceptable level will be reduced from 15ppb to 10ppb

She provided governing body with a resource pamphlet from League of Kansas Municipalities and asked to not comply with request for Economic Development Survey as city has not expended anything for economic development.  Clerk was directed to order a 2024 Governing Body Handbook for new councilmember.

Animal Control Officer Binford wanted to express her appreciation for the gift and council support.

Johnson also thanked the council for allowing her to be City Clerk.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – again conveyed his appreciation to other governing body members and city staff as his term is ending.

Councilwoman Kelly – nothing

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS

Placemaking project – Blue Cross Blue Shield will present $10,000 grant check on December 18.  Contractor is planning to begin as soon as weather permits.

 

Pond Project – contractor has contoured bank and is waiting on County to deliver rock.  County rock crusher is broken down at this time.  Mayor Jurgensen has given KDWPT biologist Don George an update on progress and discussed with him the weeds growing in the riprap on the west side.  It is recommended to not spray with roundup or glyphosate.  Mr George would like to view the areas of weeds and make herbicide recommendation.

 

NEW BUSINESS

2024 CMB off premises renewal-Union Station –

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to renew Union Station’s CMB off premises license for 2024

 

Procurement Policy – after discussion, policy does not need changed.  The wording on the invitation for bid needs to state that bid opening will be (up to 10 days) before council meeting and will be awarded at council meeting.

 

Financial/Utility Software – Clerk Johnson contacted four companies for quotes – Tyler Technologies, one time fees $60,570, annual fees $20,645; MuniBilling, one time fees $2,390, annual fees $5,208; gWorks, one time fees $1,500, annual fee $2,030; and Edmunds, one time fees $10,000-12,000, annual fees $7,000.  She recommended gWorks as they have the lowest quote plus we already use gWorks desktop Utility Billing module.  There will be no onboarding/implementation cost for utility billing.  All quotes are for cloud-based software.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to purchase gWorks Finance Hub and Utility Billing Hub cloud-based software

 

Employee Benefits-Health Insurance – Clerk Johnson presented the three options she found.  None can be used until we have an employee to insure.  Once an employee is hired, she recommends KMIT as the best option for long term health benefits.

 

Moved by Kelly, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 9:59PM

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

On The Horizon For Fort Scott Preschool: An Expansion

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The Fort Scott Preschool, at 409 S. Judson.

On December 11, the USD 234 School Board approved the purchase of the former Family Physicians building located at 902 S. Horton Street from Fort Scott Community College.

The building is slated to become the school district’s new Early Childhood Center, according to a press release from the center’s principal, Nick Johnson.

The Fort Scott Preschool Center is currently located at 409 S. Judson Street.

“We will find out if we receive grant funding in early February,” Nick Johnson, the principal, said. “Renovation should begin in the spring of 2024 and be completed by the end of 2024.  We are planning to begin classes in the new building in January 2025.”
Nick Johnson. Submitted photo.

“This building houses three preschool classrooms, two operated by USD 234 and one operated by Head Start,” Johnson said.  “USD 234 also leases a classroom in the Happy Kids Daycare and Preschool building.”

“All USD 234 preschool classrooms are half-day, blended classrooms,” he said.  “The blended classrooms contain a combination of students who qualify for an Individualized Education Program, students who qualify for the state Preschool-Aged At-Risk Program, and peer models.”

“All students participate in an engaging, interactive curriculum that is aligned with the Kansas Early Learning Standards and focuses on physical, academic, and social-emotional development,” Johnson said.  “Special Education staff provide cognitive and social-emotional intervention, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy to students with developmental delays.”

In addition to providing special education services for students attending classes, the preschool staff also provides services to home-based students and students in community-based preschool programs.

“Through partnerships with the Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center and Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, students and families have access to a variety of mental health and healthcare services,” he said.

The Fort Scott Preschool staff members include four Early Childhood Special Education teachers, one part-time intervention teacher, and ten paraprofessionals.

902 S. Horton.

“The new building will bring the three existing preschool classrooms and two additional preschool classrooms under one roof,” Johnson said.  “Two new classrooms are much needed as the desire for early childhood education continues to grow.”

The current preschool has 103 students enrolled, with 29 on the waiting list.

“The two additional classrooms will increase the program’s maximum capacity to 180 students which will eliminate the need for a waitlist and reduce class sizes,” Johnson said.

District staff have been working with representatives from Greenbush Education Service Center and Hight Jackson Architects to apply for the Capital Projects Fund Accelerator Grant administered by the Kansas Children’s Cabinet & Trust Fund, he said.

If awarded, grant funds will be used to remodel the existing building so that it can meet the range of employment, health, education, and childcare needs of families in the community.

To fulfill the grant requirements, current plans for the building include space for preschool classrooms, a small health clinic, a workforce development room, and a daycare area, he said.

“These new opportunities, combined with existing partnerships, will allow the Fort Scott Scott Preschool Center to achieve its vision of a community working together to support the academic, social-emotional, and physical development of each child to ensure that they are ready for Kindergarten and beyond,” he said.

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda for the Bourbon County Commission for December 18

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Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

December 18, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • 2023 Budget Amendment Hearing
  1. Jennifer Hawkins-County Clerk
    1. Heartland Member Application
    2. REDI Gala
    3. Future Meetings

 

The Commission will reconvene at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd at 6:00 p.m.

 

  1. Executive Session KSA 75-4319 (b)(4)
  2. Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 12/11/2023
    2. Approval of Payroll Totaling $290,776.36
    3. Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $448,457.08
  • Public Comments
  • Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  1. Commission Comments
  2. Adjourn Meeting

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

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 the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting  would jeopardize such security measures.

Payroll 12-15-2023

Accounts Payable 12-15-2023

 

 

Fort Scott Community College, Government

FSCC Nursing Program Remains at Burke Street Campus and Gets Conditional Approval

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Fort Scott Community College is selling this property at 902  S. Horton. to USD 234.

The Fort Scott Community College Trustees have decided to sell the property it purchased from the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas to move its nursing department into, at 902 S. Horton.

The building will now be purchased by the Fort Scott School District USD 234, with the intention for the transaction to take place before December 31, 2023.

“I would like to stress the decision to sell 902 Horton was based upon an evaluation of our facility needs,” FSCC President Dr. Jason Kegler said. “We see this as an opportunity to move the nursing program back to campus. Subsequent conversations with both nursing faculty and other college employees confirm this was the right decision for Fort Scott Community College and our community.”

“The lease purchase, it is my understanding, began in the summer of 2023, just prior to my arrival,” Kegler said. “The lease purchase was done with the intention of moving nursing to this location.”

“It is my understanding the previous owners of the property at 902 S. Horton were both Mercy Hospital and CHC,” Dr. Kegler said. “The college had planned to utilize the space for nursing, but decided otherwise after bids for the renovation were received. The decision was made because the college administration wanted to explore different options.”

At the December 11 monthly meeting, the FSCC Trustees authorized Dr. Kegler to complete the appropriate transfers of funds and related paperwork to fulfill the debt obligation to CHCSEK. It is the final installment in a lease purchase payment.

The nursing program will remain in the current Burke Street location, with plans to eventually relocate the program back to the main campus, he said.

 

The Fort Scott Community College Nursing Dept., 810 Burke. Submitted photo.
Also at the December 11 meeting, “The board approved the establishment of a Health Program division within Academic Affairs,” Kegler said. “This division will encompass nursing, allied health, and Emergency Medical Technician (education). There will be responsibility for compliance, oversight, assessment, and potential expansion of the college’s health program options.”

 

A December 13 announcement from Dr. Kegler about the nursing program:

“On November 21, 2023, a correspondence was posted on social media regarding the current status of the Fort Scott Community College Nursing Program. In that letter, the college vowed to provide updates as information became available about the program.
On November 29-30, a team from the Kansas Board of Nursing (KSBN) conducted a site visit to review first-time pass rates of graduates who had completed the program. The team met with FSCC administration, support staff, students, faculty, and members of the Nursing Program’s Advisory Board.
From discussions with these groups, the team identified for key institutional stakeholders, several strengths and opportunities for improvement. The site visit team would issue a report which included recommendations for the future of the program.
The following Monday, December 4, the college received a draft of the report in which the college was to review for errors of fact. That same day, a Nursing Program Task Force was formed to address items within the report as well as to prepare a response to be presented at the KSBN Education Committee meeting on December 12, 2023. The Task Force consisted of faculty, staff, and administrators. The Task Force will be expanded to include students, community members, alumni, and professionals. A list of action items, with suggested completion dates was established. A partial list of those items included:
• The appointment of an Interim Director
• Cease admissions until the program has rectified concerns related to pass rates and other recommendations from KSBN
• Host forums (Community, Alumni, and Professional) to discuss the Nursing Program
• Work to ensure student representation as active participants in meetings with the advisory board and nursing program faculty.
The action items later became part of a strategic plan for nursing. At the request of KSBN, a copy of the strategic plan was provided to the Education Committee.
FSCC President, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and a Nursing Faculty member, attended the KSBN Education Committee meeting on Tuesday, December 12, 2023. The group presented the strategic plan, as well as additional adjustments which lie ahead for the program. After a brief opportunity for questions, the Committee unanimously voted to accept the recommendations of the KSBN team which conducted the site visit.
This morning, the college was notified that the full board of KSBN voted to permit the FSCC Nursing Program to remain on conditional approval with no new admissions until a follow up site visit is done.
This means that the FSCC Nursing Program will continue to operate and serve the current students who have been accepted into the program.
The College is grateful for the KSBN officials who visited the campus and offered feedback on areas for improvement. We are also appreciative of the community who has a longstanding history of supporting this program. We share an understanding of the importance of our nursing program, not only based on the impact to the college, but also its rich tradition within our community.
We appreciate the support and are excited about the future of FSCC’s Nursing Program.”

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

Expanding Medicaid in Kansas

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Governor Kelly Unveils Middle-of-the-Road Medicaid Expansion Legislation

~~Proposes Expanding Medicaid at No Additional Cost to Kansas Taxpayers~~ 

HOLTON – Today at Holton Hospital, Governor Laura Kelly unveiled the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act to expand Medicaid, a state and federal health insurance program, to an estimated 150,000 Kansans at no additional cost to state taxpayers. The commonsense legislative proposal builds on previous bipartisan Medicaid Expansion proposals to address Republican concerns, including by making the bill revenue-neutral.

The introduction of this legislation follows the months-long “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour in which the Governor rallied healthcare workers, farmers and ranchers, business leaders, faith leaders, and rural Kansans across the state in support of Medicaid Expansion. The bill would expand health coverage to working Kansans who currently make too much money to qualify for Medicaid but don’t receive health insurance through work or make too little to afford private health insurance.

“Each year I’ve been in office, I have introduced a bill to expand Medicaid with support from both sides of the aisle. The year, we’re going a step further to meet Republicans in the middle, putting forward a plan that would cut healthcare costs, create jobs, and grow our economy – all at no additional cost for Kansas taxpayers,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “We have taken such a bipartisan approach to incorporate what I’ve been hearing from Kansans during my tour and to reflect conversations we’ve had with Republican lawmakers. Now, there’s no excuse – at this point, every legislator standing in the way of Medicaid expansion is going against a commonsense, fiscally responsible proposal that benefits their constituents.

“As Governor Kelly’s ‘Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy’ tour highlighted, Medicaid expansion is an obvious solution to provide healthcare to hardworking Kansans and to support our hospitals,” said Ed O’Malley, President and CEO of the Kansas Health Foundation. “We appreciate that, by putting forward this measured proposal, Governor Kelly is clearly working to bring Republicans to the table. That’s what’s needed to get Medicaid expanded in Kansas.”

Addressing key Republican concerns, the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act:

Comes at no additional cost to Kansas taxpayers. The federal government pays for 90% of the costs to expand Medicaid, while states pay 10%. Under this proposal, the state’s 10% share is completely covered by drug rebates, a hospital fee, savings from higher reimbursement rates for existing Medicaid recipients, and additional federal funding. This does not include expected additional revenue from Kansas businesses boosted by a healthier workforce or reduced state expenditures on incarceration and state services because of a healthier population.

“My goal is to ensure Kansans’ tax dollars never go to waste, which is why I support this approach to expanding Medicaid,” said Kansas Senator Carolyn McGinn. “Right now, Kansans’ federal tax dollars are going to support hospitals and jobs in states like New York, California and every state adjacent to us instead of being invested in the people of Kansas.”

“It makes no sense to me that, while 40 other states have expanded Medicaid, we have not. Our tax dollars are going to every one of our neighboring states, while healthcare costs rise and hospitals close here in Kansas,” said Kansas Representative Dave Younger. “By including a work requirement and making sure Kansas taxpayers won’t pay for Medicaid expansion, this proposal addresses many of the concerns my Republican colleagues have had. Now, those in leadership positions need to let this topic be debated and voted on.”

Grows the Kansas workforce. This compromise proposal goes a step further than Governor Kelly’s other Medicaid Expansion proposals by including a work requirement for Medicaid enrollees to ensure Kansas’ workforce remains strong. There will be exceptions to this requirement, including for full-time students, full-time caretakers, veterans, and Kansans with medical conditions.

The bill will also reduce uncompensated care costs – the costs healthcare providers take on when uninsured patients can’t afford to pay a medical bill — which will allow providers to compete for healthcare workers in an environment in which all the states surrounding Kansas have now expanded Medicaid.

“This proposal addresses a lot of the concerns I’ve heard from Republican colleagues by including a work requirement and multiple funding streams to ensure Kansas taxpayers won’t foot the bill for Medicaid expansion,” said Kansas Senator John Doll. “I urge my Republican colleagues to join me in supporting this bill to ensure our rural hospitals stay open, to cut healthcare costs and lower taxes, and to get affordable healthcare to more working Kansans.”

Improves public safety. For too long, prisons and jails have been shouldering the burden of providing medical care to uninsured inmates at their own expense. Governor Kelly worked with the law enforcement community to include this provision so that law enforcement can redirect those resources to focus on keeping Kansans safe. This would also reduce pressure on local governments to increase property taxes for correctional healthcare costs.

“This bill provides relief for county jails like the Sedgwick County Jail, which have been burdened with covering the high costs of health care for uninsured inmates,” said Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeffrey Easter. “If this part of the expansion proposal were to pass, it would cut down on expenses for local taxpayers and ease up resources so our law enforcement can focus on public safety.”

 ”I support expanding Medicaid with this provision to include health coverage for recently admitted inmates,” said Douglas County Sheriff Jay Armbrister. “We have seen benefits and cost savings in working with local providers for having health care rates that match Medicaid. Doing so takes the financial and administrative burden of providing that care off counties and keeps our attention focused on our top priority: public safety.”

Language for the proposed Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansas Act is available here.

Background information about the proposed Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act is available here.

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for a Special Meeting on December 13 at 402 Woodland Hills Blvd.

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Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

December 13, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

 

A special meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on December 13, 2023 at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Executive Session KSA 75-4319 (b)(4)
  • Adjourn Meeting

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

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 the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.