Category Archives: Government

Government

Ratepayers Pay More For Heating Because of Natural Disasters and Exporting of U.S. Energy

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Ratepayers can expect to pay more for heat
this winter and how to minimize the impact

TOPEKA – Kansans have heard the warnings that energy costs are on the rise. As a result, consumers have questions and some may need assistance to keep pace with the higher costs. The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has launched an online resource to explain the reasons prices are escalating, help consumers minimize the impact, and find financial and weatherization assistance.

Topics covered include tips to reduce energy use, assistance programs available throughout the state, information on the Cold Weather Rule, steps to take if you receive a disconnection notice and who to call for help with utility issues.

The KCC regulates investor-owned utilities in the state; however, the agency does not set fuel prices. The price for natural gas, the predominant heating source used by Kansans, was deregulated by the U.S Congress in the mid 1980’s. As a result, prices are driven by the market. The cost utilities pay for natural gas is a direct pass through to its customers.

More information is available on the KCC’s website at https://kcc.ks.gov/kcc-consumer-alert.

Why are energy costs going up?

First, it is important to note that the U.S. Congress deregulated
natural gas prices in the mid 1980’s.

As a result, prices are driven by the market. The cost utilities pay for energy is a direct pass-through to its customers. Utilities do negotiate contracts with their suppliers and utilize hedging and storage to help manage costs, but overall, supply and demand play a huge role in market prices.

Natural gas storage levels have been below five-year average levels all summer and that continues. Coming out of Winter Storm Uri in February 2021, the nation’s storage levels for natural gas were significantly depleted.

This storage has been slow to  refill for a variety of reasons:

1. Natural gas is used as a fuel for electric generation. Demand has been higher than average  due to heat waves in the west and southern parts of the U.S. Plus, there was a need to replace
hydroelectric production in the west due to record drought.

2. Energy shortages in Europe and Asia are fueling exports, which displaces production that might otherwise go to domestic storage and other uses.

3. Domestic production of natural gas has declined recently as offshore natural gas wells were disrupted from Hurricane Ida and extremely low energy prices during the pandemic caused shutdowns in domestic oil and gas wells.

4. U.S. producers are exporting record amounts of natural gas to Mexico, up 25% from a year earlier and 44% more than the previous five-year average.

Yet another factor that could affect supply is the arrival of winter weather, which will increase demand and lead to higher prices. How much will vary depending on where you live.

“High demand + lower than average supplies and storage = higher than expected prices

 

 

Government, Kansas

Flags At Half-Staff For Rep. Jennings

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Governor Laura Kelly Directs Flags be Flown at Half-Staff in Honor of Kansas Representative Russ Jennings

TOPEKA – In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed flags be lowered to half-staff on all state buildings, grounds, and facilities effective immediately until sundown on Sunday, October 31, in honor of Kansas Representative Russ Jennings. Jennings, Lakin, has represented Kansas House District 122 since 2013.

“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Representative Russ Jennings. Russ and I shared a commitment to reforming the Kansas criminal justice system, particularly our juvenile justice system,” Governor Kelly said. “His commitment to public service, his mastery of the subject matter, and his boundless tenacity made him a natural leader, well-respected by his colleagues and his constituents. I will miss him, and I know others in the State Capitol and throughout his district will too. I offer my sincerest condolences to his wife, Judy, their children and all who knew and loved him.”

Prior to being elected to the Kansas House of Representatives, Representative Jennings served as a deputy sheriff in Kearny County, director of the Southwest Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center, a district magistrate judge and as a member of Kansas Juvenile Justice Authority.

To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honors.

Bourbon County, Government, Health Care

Drive-Through Flu Clinic Oct. 28

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Rebecca Johnson, SEKMCHD Director.

Tomorrow, October 28, 2021, from 11 am-1 pm
the Bourbon County Health Dept. at 524 S Lowman St.
Fort Scott will have a flu drive-through clinic.

“We are having a drive-through flu clinic at our Ft. Scott office tomorrow,” Rebecca Johnson, SEK Multi-County Health Department Administrator said. “Please bring your insurance card with you & we will bill your insurance. We accept Medicare Part B, Medicaid, BCBS, United Health Care and Cigna. Sorry, but we do not accept Railroad Medicare. Or cash fee is $50 low dose or $90 high dose.”

The clinic will be at 524 S. Lowman, Ft. Scott, KS 66701

SEK MULTI COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT, Fort Scott’s phone number is  620-223-4464.

Fort Scott, Government

Third Street Underpass will Close at Clark Street on Nov. 1

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT NEWS RELEASE

October 27th, 2021

The City of Fort Scott Wastewater Department will be closing the 3rd Street underpass at Clark Street on Monday, November 1st, 2021 from 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 pm. Local traffic should avoid this area during this time frame.

Should you have any questions, call City Hall at 620-223-0550.

We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience during this time.

Government, Kansas

KDHE Encourages COVID Safe Halloween Celebrations 

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~ The Kansas Department of Health and Environment releases recommendations to enjoy Halloween while limiting the spread of COVID-19 ~ 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is encouraging Kansans to celebrate Halloween safely and spookily this year by following a few, easy COVID precautions. Kansans can enjoy Halloween safely by getting tested prior to enjoying activities with people outside of their immediate family, respecting social distancing guidelines, and wearing masks to help keep young trick or treaters safe.

While COVID-19 cases are decreasing in the United States, community transmission remains high throughout much of Kansas. To reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend trick-or-treating outside in small groups and avoiding crowded indoor parties. We highly recommend not attending celebrations or participating in activities if you feel sick. Wear a mask if you are unable to maintain social distance both indoors and outdoors. Get creative with your mask and match it to your costume!

“We know Kansas families are looking forward to celebrating Halloween this year,” said Lee Norman, M.D., Secretary of KDHE. “It’s a fun holiday for the whole family, but unfortunately COVID-19 is still putting our communities at risk. Since outdoor activities pose less of a risk, trick-or-treating is the perfect way to enjoy the spooky season and help reduce the spread. There are easy ways we can all stay safe – getting tested and getting vaccinated, if eligible, can keep the virus from spreading while we gather for candy apples and other Halloween treats.”

Help keep our communities safe by getting tested regularly. To find a free testing location near you, visit: knowbeforeyougoKS.com. 

To learn more about the vaccines, who is eligible to get vaccinated (or receive a booster shot), and to schedule a vaccination appointment, visit: kansasvaccine.gov/.

Have a spook-tacular Halloween! Be safe and have a scary good time!

Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Commission Work Session Oct. 26 at the Empress

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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: October 26, 2021

1st District-Lynne Oharah                                                                Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jim Harris                                                                      Corrected: _______________________

3rd District-Clifton Beth                                                                    Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Ashley Shelton

 

   

THE COUNTY & CITY COMMISSION WILL HOLD A WORK SESSION AT THE EMPRESS EVENT         CENTER BEGINNING AT 12 NOON ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2021.  NO COUNTY BUSINESS     WILL BE CONDUCTED.  THIS MEETING IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND WILL NOT BE             BROADCAST ON YOUTUBE.

 

Government, Kansas

Building Up Local Economies From Fed Money

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $1 Million Federal Grant to Support Economic Development in Kansas

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration has awarded Kansas $1 million to accelerate economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and build up local economies.

“My administration set the stage for economic growth early on – and despite the challenges of the pandemic, we’ve achieved one business recruitment victory after another, experienced record-breaking investment, and earned national recognition for our successes,” Governor Kelly said. “These dollars will allow us to keep up that momentum, and support our efforts to build a better, more resilient economy for future generations of Kansans. I want to thank our federal partners for their investment in our communities.”

EDA awarded $24 million in grants to states and territories across the nation for statewide planning efforts to boost economic development, enhance U.S. competitiveness, combat the climate crisis, and recover from the pandemic. These are the first EDA American Rescue Plan grants announced.

All 59 states and territories have been invited to apply for a $1 million grant through EDA’s Statewide Planning program—one of six programs EDA developed to equitably distribute its $3 billion in American Rescue Plan funding. 24 grants were awarded yesterday, with the remainder being disbursed in the coming weeks and months.

For more about EDA’s Statewide Planning grant and other American Rescue Plan programs, please visit: https://www.eda.gov/arpa/.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov) The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.

COVID-19, Government, Kansas

Moderna and J&J Booster Shots Announced

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Kansas Adopts CDC’s Recommendations for Moderna and J&J Booster Shots

~ COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and free ~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas will adopt the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) new recommendations around Moderna and J&J booster shots, following a similar announcement last month around the Pfizer-BioNTech (also known as Comirnaty) booster. She has authorized all COVID-19 vaccine providers to begin administering the booster shots to all eligible Kansans today.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is free, safe, effective, and the best way to keep our communities protected from this virus. CDC approval means that additional protection is now available to the qualified Kansans who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine six or more months ago and those 18 and older who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine two or more months ago,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Whether you are considering your first shot or signing up for a booster, I urge everyone to get the facts and get vaccinated. Together, we can put an end to this deadly pandemic.”

“Starting today, over 2,000 COVID-19 vaccine providers across Kansas stand ready to provide a free booster dose for Moderna, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson vaccine to anyone who is eligible,” said Lee Norman, M.D., Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. “But this isn’t just a question of access. In every community in our state, we need to be talking to our family, our friends, and our neighbors about the need to get this safe and effective vaccine.”

After thorough review, the CDC now recommends the booster shots for the following Kansans who have completed their primary Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine series:

  • People aged 65 years and older, regardless of a medical condition, should receive a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot;
  • Residents 18-plus in long-term care settings should receive a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot;
  • People aged 18-plus years with underlying medical conditions may receive a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot;
  • People aged 18-plus years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may receive a Pfizer or Moderna booster shot, based on their individual benefits and risks.

The vaccine booster dose only applies to individuals who completed the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine series at least 6 months ago.

For all people who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and who were vaccinated two or more months ago.

There are now booster recommendations for all three available COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may prefer the vaccine type that they originally received and others may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for a mix and match dosing for booster shots.

Eligibility for a booster dose based on an underlying medical condition will only require self-attestation – a prescription or assessment from a health care provider is not required.

Available data right now show that all three of the COVID-19 vaccines approved or authorized in the United States continue to be highly effective in reducing risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death, even against the widely circulating Delta variant. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and reduce the spread of the virus and help prevent new variants from emerging. To find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic visit Vaccines.gov.

Government, Kansas

Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance awards$52 million to protect tenants with eviction risk

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Pandemic relief measure provides rental, utility, and internet assistance to more than 9000 Kansas families
TOPEKA, Kan.— The Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA) program has provided more than $51.9 million in relief funding to communities across the state. To date, KERA funds have supported 23,834 residents of 9,220 tenant households and 3,786 landlords facing financial hardship as a result of the COVID pandemic.
When Nick Baumgartner’s small business began to flounder in 2020, he could not afford to pay his rent and was barely keeping up with utility bills. “I never had to ask for any kind of financial assistance before,” said Baumgartner, whose Topeka business served local restaurants. “But because restaurants were so negatively impacted by the pandemic, my profits suffered too.”
That’s when Baumgartner’s landlord suggested they jointly apply for Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA). After receiving rental assistance, his landlord was made whole, and Baumgartner was able to keep his own business running, helping local restaurants bounce back financially. He has since reapplied for three prospective months of rental assistance.
KERA provides rent, utility, and internet assistance to households financially impacted by the COVID pandemic. Landlords and tenants apply via a joint application process, and payments are made directly to housing and service providers. Once eligible KERA applicants receive assistance for any past-due amounts, they are eligible to recertify for three prospective months of rental assistance at a time, for a total of up to 15 months of support.
Recent program updates have streamlined application processing and provided additional resources to Kansans at risk of eviction:
  • Thanks to recent changes in Treasury rules, KERA applicants can now self-attest to eligibility guidelines including household income, COVID hardship, and housing instability, easing the documentation burden and shortening processing time.
  • The program’s new Bridge to Housing Stability initiative has partnered with community organizations across the state, providing more than $7.3 million to support Kansans experiencing homelessness. Bridge partners use KERA funds to provide hotel vouchers, housing counseling, and rapid rehousing solutions, helping tenants enter into new leases with KERA funding.
  • KERA has prioritized applicants at imminent risk of eviction and utility shutoff, halting 349 active evictions, preventing utility shutoffs for more than 1,900 households, and restoring utility services to more than 100 homes.
  • Through partnerships with the legal community, KERA has provided free representation to applicants engaged in eviction proceedings, as well as program resources and training to attorneys and judges. These efforts have helped tenants avoid eviction and helped landlords avoid legal action.
Funded by the federal Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations act of 2021, the KERA program is administered by Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC).
To learn more and apply, please visit:kshousingcorp.org/emergency-rental assistance.
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Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) is a self-supporting, nonprofit, public corporation committed to helping Kansans access the safe, affordable housing they need and the dignity they deserve. KHRC serves as the state’s housing finance agency (HFA), administering essential housing and community programs to serve Kansans.
Questions? Contact us at [email protected].