Category Archives: Government

Government, Kansas

KS Unemployment Insurance Modernization

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Governor Laura Kelly Administration Formally Kicks Off Unemployment Insurance
System Modernization

~~Governor Kelly Sends Letter Urging U.S. Labor Secretary
to Provide Additional Federal Funding for Modernization~~ 

TOPEKA – Today, the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) formally kicked off a $48 million, 26-month-long effort to modernize the state’s unemployment insurance (UI) system. Governor Laura Kelly also built on her previous support for the project by sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Labor Secretary Marty Walsh urging him to provide additional funding previously allocated by the U.S. Congress for modernization.

“My administration is working quickly to update our antiquated computer systems so Kansans who need unemployment benefits don’t experience the same problems they faced during the pandemic,” Governor Kelly said. “Congress promised to help states modernize their unemployment insurance systems and allocated the resources to get them started. Kansas upheld its end of the deal by investing millions of dollars in a new system. It’s now time for the U.S. Department of Labor to release these modernization funds to the states as Congress directed. It’s the only way to ensure we are prepared for the next economic downturn.”

Kansas’ current mainframe system used to process UI benefits was created in the 1970s. The last major push to modernize began under Governor Sebelius in 2005 but was subsequently abandoned in 2011 by the Brownback administration. That shortsighted decision directly led to the systemic inefficiencies and vulnerabilities that occurred within the state’s unemployment system during the pandemic. The effort to bring Kansas’ UI system into the 21st century will be led by information technology experts Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

“We have been looking forward to this day and to bringing everyone together to begin the formal process of developing a new, modernized unemployment system,” said Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz. “TCS is a capable partner for KDOL to set a path for technology and process transformation that will enable the delivery of software that will be responsive to the future needs of the state.”

Upon completion, the KDOL’s new system will improve the experiences of unemployed Kansans and businesses that interact with the UI systems by:

  • Modernizing technology: Replace the agency’s antiquated IT legacy system that supports unemployment insurance taxes, payment of unemployment insurance benefits, and delivery of employment services.
  • Enhancing customer experience: Deliver improved services such as online self-service, automation, access to data, and integration with partners.
  • Transforming business processes: Provide improved efficiencies in business processes, offer new tools for KDOL employees, and support more effective service delivery to Kansans.
  • Improving data security: Better anticipate and respond to security threats and prevent unemployment insurance fraud.
  • Providing expandable technology: Deliver a system capable of supporting new programs and functionality, as well as connections to other systems like workforce tools.

A page has been created on the KDOL website to keep the public updated on the modernization project’s progress.  For the most recent information, visit www.dol.ks.gov/ui-modernization.

See a copy of Governor Kelly’s letter here.

Government

KS Tax Collections Exceed $900 Million

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces May Total Tax Collections Exceed $900 Million

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that total tax collections for May were $910.1 million – $239.5 million, or 35.7%, higher than the estimate for the month.

“Our tax collection receipts continue to show the state’s fiscal health and the work my Administration has done to ensure Kansas is on solid financial footing,” Governor Kelly said. “We will continue our work to be fiscally responsible while providing tax cuts and fully funding schools, law enforcement, and roads.”

Individual income tax collections were $518.4 million. That is $198.4 million, or 62.0%, above the estimate. Corporate income tax collections were $51.4 million –$33.4 million, or 185.6%, more than the estimate.

Retail sales tax collections were $240.8 million – $13.8 million, or 6.1%, over the estimate and 5.7% over May 2021 sales tax receipts. Compensating use tax collections were $64.8 million, which is $2.2 million below the estimate but 19.1% greater than May 2021.

“May receipts reflect strong performances by the individual and corporate income tax types. Income tax receipts were not influenced by extensions of tax filing deadlines as had been the case in May 2020 and 2021,” Revenue Secretary Mark Burghart said. “Retail sales and compensating use tax receipts also continue to reflect the stability they have shown for the past 10 months.”

The spreadsheet for May tax collections can be found here.

Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Hello,

Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.

 

Remembering Those Who Served and Sacrificed on Memorial Day

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember, to honor and to pay respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

I hope we all took time this weekend today to reflect on the service of the brave men and women who fought in defense of our freedoms, our shared values and our way of life. As we reflect on their service this Memorial Day, let us remember what their sacrifice means and commit to living lives worthy of that sacrifice.

 

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Paying My Respects to Kansas Heroes
On Saturday, I began my day by paying respects to those who served our nation at Elmwood Cemetery in Lindsborg, Marquette Cemetery, Forrest Home Cemetery in northern Rice County and Bean Cemetery in Little River.

Continue reading U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter →

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Convenes June 1 for Special Meeting

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The City Commission will meet for a special meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 1st, 2022 at City Hall in the City Commission meeting room at 123 South Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.  The City Commission will meet to review the submitted letters of interest to fill the open City Commission position.

 

Also being considered is a temporary CMB license for Memorial Hall for Good Ol’ Days for Saturday, June 4th, 2022.  Also, an ordinance changing the licensing for a beer garden license and alcoholic liquor license will be considered.

 

This meeting will be broadcast on the City’s You tube channel.  This meeting is open to the public.

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson

 

May 27, 2022

 

The legislature was called back on May 23.  In an unusual move, a motion was made to end the 2022 session, sine die.  Even though it was an abrupt end to session, we were able to complete some important work that day.

 

The legislature overrode two of the Governor’s vetoes.  One was legislation that would prevent the Governor or the Secretary of State from altering election procedure without the consent of the legislature since the legislature is responsible for authoring election laws.  The Senate override vote was 27 to 10.  I voted Yes.  The House also passed the override so the legislation will become law.  The other veto override was on legislation that would stop the Governor from closing churches during an emergency as she did in 2020 and it would stop a new contract from being let for the KanCare system until January 31, 2023.  The KanCare contract will be a multi-billion dollar contract and will define medical assistance programs in Kansas.  After the current Governor and Administration signed a multi-million dollar contract with a foreign owned company to replace the Unemployment system, it raises questions and a super majority of Representatives and Senators thought it best to delay this decision until 2023.  I voted Yes.  The legislation will become law.

 

The legislature passed tax Conference Committee Reports (CCR) 2136, stopping the accelerated/pre-payment of sales tax so businesses only pay sales tax on actual sales, allows Atchison County to vote on a county-wide sales tax, delays the delivery and postage sales tax for one year to 6/1/2023, and establishes a reimbursement program for store front businesses to receive up to 1/3 of their property tax due if they were shut down during COVID (remember some government officials deemed them “non-essential”).  It is capped at $5,000 per business location.  The Department of Revenue will be establishing the application and monitoring the program.  It passed the Senate unanimously and with one No vote in the House.  The Governor could veto the bill and there would be no chance to override since the 2022 session is over.

 

All bills that did not pass both chambers died May 23rd.  It was odd, because some bills had been negotiated in conference committee (representatives from the House and Senate) and were voted on in one chamber but not the other.  A couple of examples are CCR 331 and CCR 2597.  Both reports had been signed but for some reason, leadership in one or the other chamber did not recognize or make the motion to move the legislation forward.  Myself and others worked diligently on some of this legislation, so we most likely will see it next year.  The Senate passed CCR 2597, removing income tax on Social Security, decreasing income tax on retirement income, increasing the standard deduction based on inflation, removing state sales tax on commercial electric and other utilities, and other tax cuts.  The House didn’t to take action on it.

 

A Senate Resolution defending American Sovereignty and denouncing the U.S. Administration’s proposed amendments to the World Health Organization (WHO) that could be used to justify economic and financial actions against a target nation that does not heed lockdowns, mandates, vaccine passports, and digital health surveillance imposed by the WHO.  The Resolution passed on a voice vote.  I voted Yes.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for May 31

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: May 31, 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 & Bridge Report
• Deb Needleman – Bourbon County Senior Citizens Budget Review
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer Comment
o Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• Public 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.

Agenda Request-K9 Retire Davidson

Add Funding Request BB Cty Commissioners Ltr

Purchase Agreement for Retired (Law Enforcement) K9

Bourbon County, Government

The Bourbon County Commission Minutes of May 17

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May 17, 2022 Tuesday 9:00 am
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the Deputy County Clerk present.

Anne Dare, Clint Walker, Matt Crystal, Bill Martin, and Robert Harrington were also present for some or all of the meeting.
Clifton made a motion to approve the previous meetings minutes. Lynne seconded.

All approved.

Jennifer Hawkins, Public Works Department, presented two culvert permits. One is for Travis Schilling at 895 209th Terr. The other is for Joshua Sharp on 255th North of Osage Rd. Lynne made a motion to approve the new permits for Travis Schilling and
Joshua Sharp. Clifton seconded. All approved.

Will Wallis, Emergency Preparedness, presented the Hazard Mitigation Plan that was approved back in 2019. This is a new one and the next one will be in 2026. If we were to have a disaster hit the county and FEMA brought in mitigation money then we
would qualify for it. This agreement does that. Clifton made a motion for Chairman
Harris to sign the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to add SEK Mental Health before County Counselor comment. Lynne seconded. All approved. Nathan Fawson, CEO, SEK Mental Health along with Dr. Wright, Chief Operating Office, presented budget request for continued services in the amount of $91,800.00 no levy support.

This money goes for those who are unable to pay. The types of services we provide are Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance Abuse. Mr. Fawson gave some history of the decline in mental health services and funds back in the 1990’s and a return to these
services with possible expansions and access which allows us to be more responsive to immediate needs. Dr. Wright stated that in rural Kansas we always kind of come in last place when the state’s voting on how to fund things. Dr. Fawson stated that currently people have a wait time of 3 days to get into a facility. Crisis intervention
center could help lessen that burden. We’ve been exploring possibilities in that area.

Dr. Wright stated they’ve had requests for therapist in the schools and the college in this community.

Justin Meeks, County Counselor, stated the title company has raised their rates from $85.00 to $110.00 per parcel. Wanted to make you aware before Commissioner Harris signs the agreement.

Susan Bancroft presented a financial report including a 5 year look-back of sales tax and then whatever the current year versus previous year to show if we are over or under we’ve brought in for sales tax. We are looking pretty good as we are up $103,000.00 as of the end of April. Alcohol is another one that we are starting to see
some money coming through on those funds assuming that is with the new addition at the south end of town. Other major sources of revenue include culvert sales, landfill receipts, chemical sales, sewer district, EMS and the medical building so we can track month by month so we can see if we are hitting the target that we need to. I am
concerned with EMS and what we brought in last year. I’m going to reach out to OMNI and see if we can get some reporting from them. Susan stated that we had an audit last week. There were a few concerns that Terri will discuss later. No big surprises
which was encouraging. We knew there would be a few violations. Clifton made amotion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy regarding contracts and job performance for 20 minutes including three commissioners, Susan Bancroft, Justin
Meeks, and Shane Walker returning at 9:48am.

Clifton made a motion to return to normal session with no action at 9:48am. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Clifton made a motion for an executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual personnel to protect their privacy including three commissioners for minutes returning at 9:59am. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session
at 9:59am with action. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Clifton made a motion to allow Chairman Harris to sign contracts for  CIO and Public Works Director. Lynne
seconded. All approved.

The other contract is to go out for a replacement at the
hospital.

CIO Comment: No Comment

Public Comment: Clint Walker stated that our #1 concern in this area is housing. The thing I’m bringing up to the commissioners today is they are giving money to developers in a community our size to develop apartments and we need to keep track of that and make sure they are aware. Hopefully that will encourage developers in
our area. That is state dollars not federal. There was discussion that the county did the NRP program to help those building or expanding.

Commission Comment: Clifton stated that he received the feasibility study this morning at 7:15am. He received paper form only. We will receive an electronic version eventually. Clifton asked Justin to weigh in on whether the information
should be released to public at this time. Clifton is concerned that there is some proprietary information in the report and shouldn’t be released at this time. Anne Dare asked about getting a copy. Clifton stated we charge 35 cents per page. He said we would eventually have an electronic copy at a later date. Anne asked if she could
make an appointment to come and review the report at the courthouse, not leaving the premises with it. Clifton stated that a potential evaluation of PPS or REH legislation that will be January 2023 we are not part of that legislation currently. We
would have to file an exception to be part of that. We as a county do not apply for that. The operator would have to do that. Anne Dare asked what the next step is now that we have the feasibility report. Clifton stated that now Noble Health is gone we are actively looking for partners to operate the facility. Clifton stated his personal opinion is that we should not be building owners and we have no business running a hospital. Justin stated that he glanced through the hospital feasibility report and there is proprietary information that needs to be removed before it is viewed by the public. Justin will review over the next two weeks and get back with
the Clerk’s office and let them know which parts should be removed.

Clifton made a motion for executive session KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy for job performance including three commissioners and Justin Meeks for 10 minutes returning
at 10:38am. Lynne seconded. All approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 10:38am with no action. Lynne seconded. All approved.

Anne Dare asked if she could come review the feasibility study and review it in the commission room. They approved.

Jim congratulated USD 234 on hiring a superintendent. Excellent choice. Jim also stated the meeting next Tuesday, May 24th will be held at Garland Community Center at 6:00pm.

At 10:39am Lynne made a motion to adjourn meeting. Clifton seconded. All
approved.
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
(ss) Jim Harris, Chairman
(ss) Lynne Oharah, Commissioner
(ss) Clifton Beth, Commissioner
ATTEST:
Ashley Shelton, Bourbon County Clerk
May 24, 2022, Approved Date

Government

Public Service: Phone Numbers of Kansas U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives

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The U.S. Capital Building, Washington, D.C. from visitthecapital.gov

Those wishing to make their views on any current events known to their elected officials may contact them via their websites or by phone;

For U.S. House of Representatives for Kansas:

Sharice Davids at 202.225.2865

Ron Estes at 202.225.6216

Jake LaTurner at 202.225.6601

Tracy Mann at 202.225.2715

 

For U.S. Senators For Kansas:

Roger Marshall at 202.224.4774

Jerry Moran at 202.224.6521

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Destry Brown: New USD 234 Superintendent

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Destry Brown. Submitted photo.

Destry Brown, 59, is the new superintendent of schools for USD 234, Fort Scott.

He believes he is coming full circle in his life in returning to USD 234 after 38 years in education.

“The funny thing to me is that I began school as a kindergartner in Fulton, KS which was part of USD # 234,” Brown said.  “Now, I am back in the USD # 234 School District. I guess one could say that I have come full circle.”

“I graduated from Fort Scott High School, attended Fort Scott Community College for two years and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Pittsburg State University,” he said. “I also received a Master’s Degree in Building Administration along with additional coursework to complete the licensure requirements to be a superintendent.”

He began his teaching career teaching elementary school in Mound City, where he taught grades 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6, and taught there for 11 years.

Brown was then the elementary principal for two years in Wilson, KS.

“From there, I was the principal at Alcott Elementary School in Chanute, for five years before moving to the assistant superintendent position for four years. My first superintendent position was in Frontenac,  where I remained for three years. Then, for the next nine years, I was the superintendent in Pittsburg. I then moved to Clinton, MO where I have been for the last four years.”

Brown begins officially in Fort Scott on July 1st.

“I will probably be in and out of the district throughout the month of June as I work toward a smooth transition,” he said.

USD 234 Board of Education Building, 424 S. Main

Background

“I grew up on a farm between Fort Scott and Fulton,” he said. “We moved to Fort Scott when I was in middle school.”

His wife, Joan, works for Community National Bank and they have three boys between the two of them.

“We also have six wonderful grandkids!,” he said.

Brown has many ties to Bourbon County.

“My parents are Donnie and Georgia Brown.” he said. “Dad farms in northern Bourbon County and Mom owns and operates Sunshine Boutique in downtown Fort Scott. My sister, Ginger Nance, is the Director at Presbyterian Village.”

In his spare time he attends events in the school district and community, he said.

“In Clinton, I am involved in the Optimist Club and serve as the Treasurer,” he said. “I am also a Rotary and Elks Club member. I serve on the Henry County Health Board. I am involved with Olde Glory Days, a week long 4th of July celebration, Main Street Clinton, and the Emergency Planning Commission. I serve as a Big Brother in Big Brothers and Big Sisters and I mentor a student through the Juvenile Justice program. I coordinated and help with community food distributions. Joan and I attend the Clinton Methodist Church. As you can see, we spend most of our spare time serving our community and especially the children/families in our community.”

” I also love to cook and I am an avid student of leadership,” Brown said.

Brown has been inspired by many.

“As a young teenager, our neighbor, Tom Davis was the Recreation Director in Fort Scott,” he said. “He asked me to coach a tee ball team one year and I found that I really enjoyed working with kids. I volunteered on the playground at Winfield Scott Elementary during my lunch hour in high school. I also had some amazing teachers who had a tremendous influence on my desire to be a teacher including: Welcome Van Sickle, Margaret Titus, Elaine Wimberly, Maxine Kinney, Alice Miller, Tom Davis, Bill Sailors, Lily Kober, Gary Wimmer, Warren Jones, Steve Wolf, Gary Key, Lucille James, Marcel Norman. I am sorry for this long list. But, these people along with many others like Dick Hedges and George Hudiberg encouraged and inspired me along the way. All of these people had a way of teaching and leading that broke average. They always pushed me to work hard and to love and serve people. They displayed a joy for teaching and leading and drew me into the field of education.”

The greatest challenge he faces coming to Fort Scott is to learn about the Fort Scott system and the people who work here,  and making up for lost time during the COVID 19 Pandemic, he said.

“Now that we are past the pandemic, the challenge will be to help our students to recover the loss of learning that has occurred,” Brown said. “More importantly, we will need to figure out ways to address the social and emotional issues that have presented themselves during the pandemic. Although we learned a lot about different ways to educate our kids and different ways to do business during this time, our challenge will be to blend the old with the new in ways that best meet the needs of every student.”

“I am so excited to be able to return to my hometown,” Brown said. “The things that people will be able to count on from me are: 1) I am about doing our very best for kids. 2) I will encourage and support our staff. 3) My door is always open to people to stop by with concerns, encouragement, or just to talk. 4) I will be honest and transparent about the workings of the district. 5) I will always support and positively represent the Red and the White. Go Tigers!!!!”

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott Gets KDOT Grant For Horton Street Improvements

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces More Than $7 Million in Transportation Project Investments

~~Cost Share Program Tops $100M in Grants
for the First Time in its History~~ 

OLATHE – Governor Laura Kelly joined Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz today to announce that more than $7 million will be awarded to 11 transportation construction projects through the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Cost Share Program for spring 2022. With these grants, more than $100 million has been given to Kansas communities since the Cost Share Program’s inception.

“My administration has invested more than $100 million in our roads, trails, and bridges since the start of the Cost Share program because quality infrastructure is the foundation of strong communities,” Governor Kelly said. “Congratulations to each of this year’s Cost Share awardees. Thank you for the work you’re doing to continue building a beautiful, vibrant, and safe Kansas.”

The Cost Share Program was founded in 2019 as part of the Kelly Administration’s 10-year, bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, or IKE. By leveraging both state and local dollars to fund community transportation projects, Cost Share improves safety, supports job retention and growth, relieves congestion, and increases access and mobility in rural and urban areas.

Governor Kelly lauded the Cedar Creek Trail in Olathe as a prime example of how Cost Share can benefit a community. Enhancements to the city’s trail system will give residents greater access to recreational amenities, connect to regional trails, and provide hiking and biking access to nearby health care facilities.

With today’s announcement, more than $103 million in state funding, matched by more than $74 million in local funding, has been invested in Cost Share projects since the program was founded by the Kelly Administration.

“We rely on local leaders to bring us their best ideas for projects that, with a little help, can make a significant difference in a community,” Secretary Lorenz said. “Communities come to the table with a solid project plan, the support of local business and community members, and matching funds in place. State dollars help get the projects to the finish line.”

View a map of Cost Share projects here.

Spring 2022 Cost Share recipients are:

Ellis County

Cathedral Avenue reconstruction

City of Erie

4th Street improvement, phase two

City of Fort Scott

Horton Street improvements

Johnson County

I-35 and 24th Street traffic signals

Lincoln County

60th Road pavement reclamation

City of Logan

Logan Street reconstruction

City of North Newton

Sidewalk improvements

City of Olathe

Cedar Creek Trail, phase two

Pottawatomie County

Havensville Road bridge over Mound Creek

Scott County

W. Road 270 improvements

City of Valley Center

Seneca Street reconstruction

More information about KDOT’s Cost Share Program is on KDOT’s website at https://www.ksdot.org/CostShare/CostShareProgram.asp.

 

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