Category Archives: Government

Government

Sen. Moran Statement on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.)  released the following statement after Russian troops invaded Eastern Ukraine:

 

“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is an avoidable tragedy for which Vladimir Putin is solely responsible. 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 service members 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.”

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson

 

February 18, 2022

 

 

Crazy Weather lately the temperature has fluctuated from unusually hot to very cold – kind of like how this year’s legislative session has gone.

 

Tax Cuts The government takes too much of our money and needs to be more frugal with its spending.  I stand strong for tax cuts, not tax increases.  Last year, I led a successful effort to cut income taxes by increasing the standard deduction and allowing an option to itemize – the Governor vetoed the tax cuts, but the legislature overrode the veto.  This year, I am again working to lower your taxes. Kansans are paying record amounts of taxes – even with last year’s tax cuts.

 

Senate Bill (SB) 431 modernizes the $20,000 exemption for the schools 20 mil of property tax.  Presently, $20,000 is subtracted from a homeowner’s valuation for the 20 mill collected by the state and sent to the schools.  The $20,000 exemption was established in 1997.  To count for inflation, SB 431 would increase the $20,000 to $65,000 for 2021 and adjust annually.  The bill passed out of the Senate Tax Committee and hopefully, will be debated on the Senate floor next week.

 

Improving Adoptions in Kansas SB 12 would require performance-based contracts to be established by Kansas Department of Children and Families (DCF) with stakeholders.  The plan would help with early intervention services for families and children who are awaiting adoption.  The bill passed the Senate unanimously.

 

Increasing Healthcare Access

SB 200 would provide Kansans an option to see a pharmacist to start therapy for the flu, strep, and UTI (Urinary Tract Infections).  Some think this is a doctor’s responsibility and overreach for a pharmacist.  While others see it as a way to improve our healthcare system.  I voted Yes.  The bill passed 37 to 2.

 

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

Caryn

Airport, Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Special Meeting Feb. 22

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There will be a Special Meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission held at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022.

Discussion will be the Airport Runway project.

There will be a work session immediately following the special meeting to discuss the prioritization of Lake Fort Scott projects.

These meetings will be held at 123 S. Main Street in the City Commission meeting room and will be broadcast on the City’s you tube channel. These meetings are open to the public.

Fort Scott Community College, Government

FSCC Trustees Agenda For Feb. 21

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The Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees will start at 4 pm with a training provided by Dr. Doug Moeckel of KASB.  This will be open session, but no official business will be conducted during this training session.

The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
February 21, 2022. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott
Community College.
4:00 p.m. Board training provided by KASB in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at 4:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m. Dinner in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at 5:00 followed by regular board meeting at
5:30 p.m.
THE AGENDA
4:00 KASB BOARD TRAINING
5:00 DINNER
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on January 24,
2022, 6
C. Approval of Treasurer’s Report, Bills, and Claims, 9
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS, 61
A. Approval of Beverage Sales and Vending Provider on Campus, 61
B. Approval of 2022-23 Academic Calendars, 79
REPORTS, 82
A. Administrative Updates, 82
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 100
ADJOURNMENT, 101
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
• February 21, 2022: Board Meeting
• March 14 – 18, 2022: Spring Break, Campus Closed
• March 21, 2022: Board Meeting
1
• March 25, 2022: Aggie Day
• April 12, 2022: Foundation Scholarship Dinner
• April 15, 2022: Good Friday, Campus Closed
• April 18, 2022: Board Meeting
• May 6, 2022: Athletic Award Show
• May 7, 2022: Hall of Fame Golf Tournament and Banquet
• May 10 – 13, 2022: Finals
• May 14, 2022: Graduation
• May 16, 2022: Board Meeting
• May 30, 2022: Memorial Day, Campus Closed
• June 20, 2022: Board Meeting
• July 16, 2022: Foundation Gala
Sincerely,
John Bartelsmeyer, Chair
Alysia Johnston, 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.
2
ROLL CALL
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Dave Elliott
_____ Kirk Hart
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Robert Nelson
3
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
4
CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
1) Attached are the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting conducted on January
24, 2022.
C. APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT, BILLS and CLAIMS
Attached are the Treasurer’s Report and the Bills and Claims Report.
D. APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTIONS
1) Additions
a) Melissa Schelah, IDRC Project Specialist, effective February 1, 2022
b) Madison Dehlinger, Assistant Volleyball Coach, effective February 18, 2022

2) Separations
a) Bethanne Elliott, Admissions Representative/Graphic Design Specialist,
effective February 15, 2022
b) Aliya Higginbotham, Head Volleyball Coach, effective February 18, 2022
c) Brian Lancaster, Director of Admissions, effective February 28, 2022

To view the entire packet:

2.21.22 Consent Agenda

Government, Kansas

Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formula Alert

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OOS - JSFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

February 18, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

KDHE and the FDA warn consumers not to use select Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formula 

TOPEKA – Yesterday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it is investigating complaints of infant illness related to products from Abbott’s Nutrition’s Sturgis, MI facility. Three brands of powdered infant formula were recalled for possible Cronobacter contamination. As a result of the ongoing investigation, the FDA is alerting consumers to avoid purchasing or using certain powdered infant formula products produced at this facility.

The FDA is advising consumers not to use Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas if:

  • the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37; and
  • the code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2; and
  • the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.

Abbott has initiated a voluntary recall of certain powdered infant formulas. Products made at the Sturgis facility can be found across the United States. Individuals can find more information about returning the product directly to Abbott by using the Product Recall tool.

Cronobacter infections are rare, but they can be deadly in newborns. Infections in infants usually occur in the first days or weeks of life. About two to four cases are reported to CDC every year, but this figure may not reflect the true number of illnesses because most hospitals and laboratories are not required to report Cronobacter infections to health departments.

The first symptom of Cronobacter infection in infants is usually a fever, accompanied by poor feeding, crying, or very low energy. Infants with these symptoms should be immediately evaluated by a health care provider.

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Bourbon County, Government

Agenda For Bourbon County Commission Feb. 22

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Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: February 22, 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
• Cereal Malt Beverage Permit Approval
• Removal of Special Assessment Process
• County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
o Inclement Weather
o Control Room Request
o Finance Report Update
• Public Comment
• Elected Officials Comment
• Commission Comment

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce, Government

Legislative Update Coffee Tomorrow at the Empress Event Center

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
is hosting a Legislative Update Coffee
Tomorrow ~ Saturday, February 19, 2022
10:00-11:30am
PLEASE JOIN US ~ ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!
Empress Event Center
7 N. Main St.
(Coffee, juice, and light breakfast refreshments will be served)
Kansas Senators Caryn Tyson and Richard Hilderbrand and Representatives Trevor Jacobs and Ken Collins have been invited to give an update on the current session as well as address any issues or questions presented by the audience.
Thank you to our Chamber Champions members for all of their support
Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Third USD234 School Funding Community Conversation Tomorrow

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Sent on behalf of Chamber member USD 234
Join the ESSER III FUNDING CONVERSATION
Saturday (Tomorrow), February 19th, 8am at
Fort Scott Middle School Community Room
1105 E. 12th St.
(Community Room entrance is on the south side of building)
Please fill out the community survey below.
If you would prefer a hard copy paper survey,
please contact Ted Hessong or Gina Shelton at
USD 234 Board Office
424 S. Main St.
Fort Scott, KS. 66701
620-223-0800
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members for all of their support
Government

McKinney to Serve as KS State Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency

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USDA Email Sig Logo

Biden Administration Appoints Dennis McKinney to Serve as State
Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Kansas

WASHINGTON, Feb. 17, 2022— The Biden Administration recently appointed Dennis McKinney as
the new State Executive Director (SED) for the USDA Kansas Farm Service Agency (FSA). McKinney
joined the Kansas FSA team on Feb. 14, 2022.
“Individuals selected to serve as FSA State Executive Directors are incredible public servants who have
a proven track record when it comes to their commitment to advance their states and communities,” said
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Each will serve on the frontlines, carrying out USDA’s mission at
the state level and ensuring the voice of each and every USDA customer is heard. We are fortunate to
have each of these talented individuals at this critical time for farmers and producers and rural
communities across America.”
McKinney is a Kansas farmer and cattle producer whose family farm operates in southern Kiowa and
northern Comanche counties. He served as a Kiowa County Commissioner from 1989 to 1992 before
being appointed to the Kansas House of Representatives, where he served until 2009. In 2009,
McKinney was appointed as the 38th State Treasurer of Kansas. A resident of Greensburg, he has also
served as a member of the board of the Kiowa County Memorial Hospital and the Kansas Historical
Foundation.
As SED, McKinney will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of FSA programs to agricultural
producers in Kansas. These commodity, conservation, credit, and disaster assistance programs ensure a
safe, affordable, abundant, and nutritious food, fiber, and fuel supply for consumers.
“The State Executive Director is a pivotal leadership position for the Agency and for the agricultural
producers we serve,” said Marcus Graham, FSA Deputy Administrator for Field Operations. “These
leaders, appointed by the Biden-Harris Administration, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to
their respective states. We are happy to have them on board and wish them much success.”
Farm Service Agency serves farmers, ranchers, foresters, and agricultural partners through the effective,
efficient, and equitable delivery of federal agricultural programs. The Agency offers producers a strong
safety net through the administration of farm commodity and disaster programs. Additionally, through
conservation programs, FSA continues to preserve and protect natural resources and provides credit to
agricultural producers who are unable to receive private, commercial credit, including targeted loan
funds for beginning, underserved, women and military veterans involved in production agriculture.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris
Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient
local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and
nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and
producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure
and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by
removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more,
visit usda.gov.

 

Entertainment, Government, Kansas

Fishing: Live-Imaging Sonar Study

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KDWP Fisheries Staff Test Latest Technology in Ground-breaking Study

EMPORIA – Many advances in technology arise out of a desire to improve output and efficiency, and the fishing industry is no exception. One such advancement that has many anglers “picking sides” is the introduction, and proliferation, of live-imaging sonar (LIS) – sonar that allows anglers to view fish and structure, below and around their vessel, in real time and often with great clarity. While some believe LIS adds immense value to the overall fishing experience, others believe it poses an ethical dilemma, blurring the lines of “fair chase.” So, when is an advancement too advanced? That’s the data KDWP Fisheries staff sought but couldn’t find; so, they developed it themselves in a first-of-its-kind study.

“As a conservation-based organization, we always want to look to science and ask ourselves, ‘What is the data telling us?’” said KDWP Fisheries biologist, Ben Neely. “But this technology is just new enough, that these data really didn’t exist. That’s when we decided we needed to explore this further and develop the study. It’s taken off like wildfire in the conservation community ever since.”

KDWP Fisheries staff opted to conduct a controlled and replicated experiment to assess the influence of LIS on catch of winter crappie ­– Kansas’ second-most sought-after sportfish. Specifically, the project was designed to examine LIS impacts on “casual weekend anglers” fishing unfamiliar water on a weekend trip.

In early December 2021, a total of 32 individuals from KDWP’s Fisheries and Wildlife divisions, and Kansas State University took part in a two-week experiment at Cedar Bluff Reservoir. Anglers were randomly partnered up and instructed to fish for seven hours on either the north or south sides of the lake, and either with or without the aid of LIS. The next day, each team switched sides and use of equipment; This resulted in a total of 16 controlled “samples.” The results were unexpected.

  • Participating anglers who did not use LIS averaged 6.3 crappie per day, while anglers who used LIS caught 7.3 crappie per day.
  • When other species of fish were counted in the study, teams not using LIS averaged 12.9 fish per day, compared to 14.4 per fish per day when LIS was used.
  • And, anglers also caught slightly larger crappie on average (10.8 inches) when using LIS, compared to the fish (10.5 inches) caught by anglers not using LIS.

Ultimately, the data collected demonstrated that while LIS may improve angler catch and size of crappie by casual weekend anglers, overall differences were statistically minimal. And maybe more importantly, the data suggests an overall low risk of long-term damage to crappie populations as a result of LIS. However, anglers with more experience and expertise using LIS to target crappie were not considered in this study. Future studies are being discussed that can leverage the abilities of more LIS-experienced anglers to further inform future management of crappie in Kansas.

“Balancing sociological needs with biological needs is at the heart of nearly everything we do at KDWP,” said KDWP Secretary Brad Loveless. “This study is a fine example of how our staff continue to operate off of the best-available data to make science-based decisions that benefit not only the resource, but our users. I’m confident this study will be just one of many that the conservation industry looks to, as our talented staff in Kansas continue to pave the way in fisheries research and management.”

To learn more about this study, watch an audio/video presentation by Neely here, https://youtu.be/XEiP0_PMjjg.

For more on fishing in Kansas, visit ksoutdoors.com/Fishing.

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Special Meeting Today Feb. 18

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There will be a Special Meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 18th, 2022.

An Executive Session.

Discussion of the sale of Lake Fort Scott properties, and the Airport Runway project.

This meeting will be held at 123 S. Main Street in the City Commission meeting room and will be broadcast on the City’s you tube channel. The meeting is open to the public, but the Executive Session is not.

Fort Scott, Government

Grant Money to Aid City’s Wastewater Collection System

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Fort Scott City Hall.

Governor Laura Kelly announced last week that 40 rural Kansas communities will receive Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) totaling more than $17.6 million to help support critical community development projects.

The City of Fort Scott received a $700,000 award grant to help revitalize the wastewater system infrastructure.

The awards are administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and granted from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Small Cities CDBG program. Eligible CDBG public improvement projects help fund water and wastewater projects, housing rehabilitation, and other community facilities and services, according to a press release from the governor.

The $700,000  grant will be put with the $425,000 that the city will provide of the projected total cost of $1,125,000 for wastewater system infrastructure improvements.

Kelley Zellner. Submitted photo.

“The project is set to be solicited in the next few weeks, ” Fort Scott City Manager Kelley Zellner said.  “And a contractor will be selected. Once the contractor is chosen for the job, the contractor decides the order of completion of the project using their ‘Means and Methods.'”

“The city’s wastewater collection system is in need of attention in certain areas and some of the equipment at the sewer plant will need to be looked at for upgrades in the next several years,” Zellner said.

“This particular improvement project,  to the citizens of Fort Scott is a small portion of the need improvements to the overall collection system and a small step in the direction of a healthy infrastructure legacy for our children and grandchildren’s sake!” he said.