Governor Laura Kelly Announces Counties to Receive over $7 Million for 13 Bridge Replacement Projects
TOPEKA – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz today announced 13 counties will receive a combined total of $7.5 million through the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Off-System Bridge Improvement Program.
“My administration is committed to improving the overall transportation system in our state, including bridges owned by cities and counties in need of long-overdue repairs,” Governor Kelly said. “We look forward to fostering further partnerships among all levels of government to continue building the kind of robust, responsive infrastructure system that moves people and goods as efficiently as possible across Kansas and boosts our state and local economies.”
In Kansas, there are more than 19,300 locally owned bridges, of which 1,230 are in “poor” condition and an additional 3,844 are either unable to carry legal loads or accommodate modern truck sizes. Off-system bridges are located on roadways not otherwise eligible for federal aid.
State funding for the 13 projects will be enhanced by a minimum 20 percent match from each recipient, resulting in $10.4 million in total local infrastructure improvements. KDOT received 87 applications requesting $46.4 million as part of the Off-System Bridge Improvement Program.
“There is clearly a high demand for transportation infrastructure investments across our state,” Secretary Julie Lorenz said. “By partnering with KDOT, our communities are better able to help local road systems do the job they’re intended to do – like moving people and goods – and thus promote economic development and create more opportunities for growth.”
In addition to this federally required program, KDOT reinstated the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program bridge program as part of the Kelly Administration’s 10-year, bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program to assist cities and counties with the local roadway system.
For federal fiscal year 2023, the county, locations and amounts awarded for the Off-System Bridge Improvement Program include:
To find further resources on how to protect you and your family, visit coronavirus.gov or the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website here.
Vaccines in Kansas
Visit kansasvaccine.gov for information regarding COVID-19 vaccinations in Kansas, including availability and FAQs.
To find providers offering COVID-19 vaccinations, use KDHE’s Find My Vaccine map tool. Enter your zip code or address to find the providers nearest you.
Assistance
If you are a Kansas resident and you or your family needs assistance with matters related to COVID-19, please click here.
Kansas Informational Resources
Please visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment here.
U.S. Small Business Administration Resources
For information regarding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), please visit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website by clicking here.
For information regarding Economic Injury Disaster loans, please click here.
Veteran Resources
For information on veteran and VA related topics, resources and contact information, please click here.
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Phone Calls to Kansans
Vern Hendricks, Rotary International, Manhattan
Jeff & Marla Copper, Copper Agency, Hays
Richard Ross, Retired Kansas Supreme Court Reporter, Topeka
Bob & Lynne Haines of Manhattan
Tom Gentile, Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita
Marcia Mies, Manufacturing Development, Inc., Cheney
Dr. Roy Jensen, University of Kansas Cancer Center, Fairway
Brian Mackey, Dynamic NC, Rose Hill
Brenda & Les Herrman of Hays
Pat Gideon, President, Silver Lake Bank, Topeka
Jason Marietta, Jake’s Fireworks, Pittsburg
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.
We Shall Never Forget
Remembering September 11, 20 Years Later
Saturday marked 20 years since the September 11 attacks that razed New York City’s Twin Towers, decimated the west side of the Pentagon, hallowed a field outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania and claimed 2,996 American lives. Two decades later, those initial moments of fear and uncertainty still burn brightly in America’s collective memory and stand as a defining moment in our nation’s history.
We shall never forget. As the events of September 11 have brought profound change to America and the world, we will never forget the lives lost that day and the sacrifice of so many—firemen, law enforcement officers, co-workers, friends, neighbors and strangers—who answered the call to serve and save their fellow Americans and to those who have answered the call to service since.
Following the September 11 attacks, our military servicemembers and veterans in Afghanistan fought honorably to accomplish every mission their country asked of them. Over the past two decades, veterans, their fellow servicemembers and their families have sacrificed greatly while fulfilling their mission in Afghanistan. As the lead Republican of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I want each veteran to know that they not only have my support, but also my admiration and confidence for what they have achieved and what they will go on to achieve for our country.
May we never forget the way we united in the aftermath of the attacks, as one nation under God. And may we renew our commitment to respecting one another, to working together for the common good and to answering the call to serve.
Delivering Remarks Commemorating the 20th Anniversary in McPherson
On Saturday, I participated in McPherson’s ceremonies commemorating 20 years since the September 11 attacks. When I remember that Tuesday, I think about the shared devastation we, as Americans, felt. But, I also remember the way we pulled together to support each other, as Kansans and as a country forever changed. I was humbled to be a part of the ceremonies, and it is my hope that everyone takes a moment to reflect on the events of September 11, remember those who lost their lives in the attacks and rescue efforts, and honor those who have sacrificed through their service since that day.
Thank you to Fire Chief TJ Wyssmann for organizing the event. Thank you also to Mayor Tom Brown for the invitation and kind introduction, and for his service to our nation as a U.S. Marine. Finally, thank you to Police Chief Mikel Golden and to the McPherson community for taking time this weekend to formally honor our servicemembers, veterans and first responders on Saturday’s 20th anniversary.
Bolstering Kansas Leadership in Aviation
Announcing $103 Million in Grants for Kansas Aviation Manufacturers
This week, I announced grants for over 30 Kansas aviation manufacturers through the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection (AMJP) program. These funds will help Kansas aviation employers retain 4,284 employees and was created by legislation I introduced with Congressman Ron Estes.
The aviation manufacturing industry in Kansas plays a critical role in providing our state with high-paying jobs and supporting commercial and general aviation across the country. As our economy continues recovering from the pandemic, having a trained, fully-staffed workforce will help aviation manufacturers recover more quickly and meet the demand for new aircraft and repairs. I’m pleased the AMJP program is providing support to this important industry and their invaluable workforce. Read more in the Wichita Eagle here.
Unveiling the Boeing 777 with WSU, Aerospace Industry and State Leaders
This week, I was also pleased to help welcome a new company to the Wichita community, the Kansas Modification Center (KMC). The KMC, in partnership with Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) WERX program, will help solidify the Wichita area as a leader in the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) industry. During the welcome ceremony, KMC and NIAR WERX’s first project was on hand, a Boeing 777-300ER passenger aircraft which will be converted into a freighter that meets the growing needs of the e-commerce and express cargo market industry. The official announcement of the new partnership and unveiling of the Boeing 777 aircraft marks a new era for the ‘Air Capital of the World’ and exemplifies the community’s innovative spirit.
The creation of the MRO arena will benefit WSU, the regional aerospace industry and our entire state. This is just the start, and I look forward to seeing all that will be accomplished in the years to come. Thank you to WSU Senior Vice President for Industry & Defense Programs John Tomblin, WSU President Rick Muma, WSU Tech President Sheree Utash, WSU Tech Dean of Aviation and Manufacturing Jim Hall and Kansas Modification Center Owner Jim Gibbs and Partners Dave Murfin and Bryan Mackey for their leadership.
On Saturday morning, I spoke with farmers and ranchers from across the state at the Kansas Farm Bureau’s Agricultural Leadership Breakfast at the State Fair. On the 20th anniversary of September 11, I told them about reading Amanda’s note to her father at Ground Zero following the attacks and the way that day changed my outlook on my role serving as a member of Congress. I also discussed my role on the Agriculture Appropriations committee and the work I do to secure funding for agriculture research projects across Kansas. KFB members and I talked about importance of agriculture to communities in Kansas and the importance of rural Midwest values to the moral compass of the nation as a whole.
I thank Senator Roberts for joining and for his years of service to agriculture and the state of Kansas, and to KFB President Rich Felts for allowing me to join your Ag Leadership Breakfast.
Visiting the Exhibit Buildings
While walking through the exhibits, I stopped by the American Legion booth to thank those working for their commitment to honoring our nation’s veterans. Organizations like the American Legion play a critical role in supporting veterans, which has been especially important over the last month as many have struggled while watching the events in Afghanistan unfold.
I also paid my respects to the many Kansans who have given their lives for our country since September 11 at the Remember Our Fallen exhibit. If you attend the fair in the coming days, I highly recommend visiting this pictorial memorial in the Pride of Kansas building which serves as a poignant reminder that freedom is never free.
Opposing President Biden’s Federal Vaccine Mandates
This week, President Biden announced new federal mandates for the COVID-19 vaccine. There is no doubt that through the success of American science and ingenuity, the COVID-19 vaccine has provided the best shot at ending the pandemic and taking critical steps towards normalcy.
I am vaccinated, and I will continue to urge Kansans to get the shot. These decisions should be left to each individual, and that decision should be guided by conversations with trusted doctors and not dictated by Washington, D.C. Furthermore, this government overreach comes at the expense of small business owners who are trying to strike a balance between keeping their businesses safe and open, and respecting their employees’ personal health decisions. This mandate will also only deepen divisions in the country regarding the vaccines, as well as make it even harder for employers to find workers and cause some employees to drop out of the workforce in protest. I strongly oppose the Biden administration’s extreme government overreach in requiring vaccinations and urge them to focus on solutions that will empower patients to make educated decisions of their own choosing.
Taliban Expands Control in Afghanistan
This past week, the Taliban formed their government and included terrorists previously detained at Guantanamo Bay, currently wanted by the FBI and sanctioned by the United Nations. The Taliban is limiting the number of flights out of Afghanistan that would safely bring Americans home, and I continue to work to ensure those who need to evacuate for their safety are able to do so. The new Taliban is the same as the old Taliban—a terrorist organization. It is important for sanctions to be enforced so long as they collaborate with groups that seek to attack Americans, prevent freedom of travel and reject basic human rights.
Suicide Prevention Awareness
Supporting Our Veterans Following Withdrawal from Afghanistan
As the lead Republican on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I continue to be focused on supporting our veterans here at home as some are struggling watching the U.S. withdraw from Afghanistan and marking 20 years since the September 11 attacks. The veterans who answered the call to protect our nation after September 11 deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. These veterans brought justice to Osama bin Laden and served with duty and purpose. They need to know they are not alone and that we will never forget their sacrifice. I encourage each of us to reach out to our friends and loved ones who have served to check-in and make certain they know they are loved and that their service made a difference.
Click here for a list of resources available to veterans and veteran families and caregivers following the recent events in Afghanistan.
Prioritizing Mental Health this National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Friday was World Suicide Prevention Day. To anyone who may be struggling: you are loved and you are not alone. It’s okay to ask for help.
You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Veterans, call 1-800-273-8255, then press 1 to be put in touch with qualified VA responders at the Veterans Crisis Line. Let’s all do our part to check in with our friends, family and loved ones.
Discussing Cyber Security with Emporia State
On Wednesday afternoon, I met with met with Emporia State University faculty and administrators to discuss their pandemic response and several of the university’s academic programming initiatives. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, this discussion provided an opportunity for me to learn about their proposed cyber security program and how this program would support the education of students seeking degrees in Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Data Analytics and other cyber-related degrees, as well as meet the augmented needs of the cyber security industry throughout the Kansas City Metro Area.
Thank you to Emporia State University President Allison Garrett, Vice President of Administration and Finance Diana Kuhlmann, Provost George Arasimowicz, School of Business Dean Ed Bashaw and Government Relations Liaison Greg Schneider for meeting with me this week.
Read more about my visit from the Emporia Gazette by clicking here.
Meeting with Civic Club Members
Hays
I appreciated the opportunity to meet with civic club members in Hays on Tuesday. The Lions Club members and I touched on a number of issues, including their concerns about the ability of elected officials to work together and the importance of finding common ground. I heard form Ellis County members about their drought and irrigation concerns, and discussed how my work on the Senate VA Committee will continue to operate with veterans’ mental and physical health needs as a top priority. I also shared with those at The Press how my casework team has been working to help those in need following the administration’s failed withdrawal from Afghanistan. Thank you to everyone who spent their afternoon speaking with me.
Marion
I joined the Marion Kiwanis on Wednesday where we discussed the importance of civic clubs in communities across Kansas and how local government is best suited to serve its community’s needs. Kiwanis members posed questions regarding my work helping small businesses get the resources they need, and we discussed the importance of access to rural health care, pharmacies, education, technology and broadband. We also had a chance to discuss the importance of agriculture and farming to keeping small town economies and rural America alive.
Thank you to Kiwanis President Chris Mercer and Treasurer Gene Winkler, Superintendent of Marion-Florence Schools Aaron Homburg and to everyone who shared their thoughts and concerns with me yesterday. Thank you to Café 256 for hosting our conversation and to Johsie Reid for letting me stop by the newly opened JR Hatters Mercantile on Main Street while I was in town.
MRIGlobal’s Work for National SecurityI I visited MRIGlobal in Kansas City on Thursday to see the innovative research and development work being done to support our national security. MRIGlobal is a national leader in countering chemical and biological weapons of mass destruction. They are also working to address global biological threats, like COVID-19, and have connected with the Air Force and other federal partners as our nation struggled with this pandemic. MRIGlobal’s work to defend our nation from chemical and biological attacks and protect Americans facing a global pandemic is to be commended, and I was pleased to visit with their leadership to offer my support. I want to thank the leadership team at MRIGlobal for hosting me, and I look forward to working with them in the future.
ATF Director Nomination Withdrawn
This week, the nomination of David Chipman – who has an extensive track record of pushing a radical and partisan anti-Second Amendment agenda – to be Director of the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) was withdrawn. The Second Amendment states that the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. Yet, the Biden administration continues to push its gun control agenda against law-abiding gun owners. Since entering office, President Biden has made every effort to limit the ability of gun owners and retailers to exercise their rights under the Second Amendment, and this includes the nomination of David Chipman to head the ATF. I remain committed to preserving the rights enshrined in the Constitution under the Second Amendment and will continue to oppose any nominee who will not do the same.
Visiting WaKeeney
My morning view in WaKeeney on Tuesday. Thank you to everyone I visited with while I was in town.
Honored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas Receives National Economic Development Recognition
~ Kansas breaks into Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business recognition~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Kansas has received Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business recognition for 2021 – the first time in Kansas history the state has made the Top 20 list.
“Our state’s positive economic development momentum is undeniable, and the rest of the country is taking notice,” Governor Kelly said. “This designation – in addition to our record-breaking economic success, our receipt of Area Development Magazine’s Gold Shovel Award, and being named as the top business climate in the West North Central region of the United States – is further proof our efforts are paying off in a big way.
“My administration will continue rebuilding our economic development tools, fully funding our schools, investing in much-needed infrastructure projects, and expanding high speed internet access to build on the qualities that make Kansas the best state to live and to do business.”
Area Development conducts an annual survey of site consultants and location experts on specific location considerations that matter most in corporate decision-making. States are then ranked in 13 categories, including the overall cost of doing business, business incentive programs, workforce training programs and more.
After winning the coveted Gold Shovel award earlier this year, the Top 20 States for Doing Business accolade further validates Kansas as the best place to do business. Since 2019, Kansas has seen over $6 billion in new business dollars invested in the state, and over 28,000 jobs created.
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to help businesses and communities grow in Kansas. Making it easy and worthwhile for businesses seeking to relocate to Kansas is a key focus for Commerce’s business recruitment teams.
“We have a new way of doing business in Kansas, and we’re getting results,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “Kansas has set the standard for growth and recovery in the wake of COVID-19. We’ve applied our proven approach to attracting new businesses, and it’s led to one of the most successful capital investment streaks in the history of our state. This is what happens when an administration is serious about building a strong economy.”
To see the most recent business successes in Kansas, check out the Kansas Department of Commerce website.
Area Development is a leading corporate site selection and facility planning resource. The full report on Area Development’s Top 20 States for Doing Business awards can be found here.
About the Kansas Department of Commerce
As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, nationwide and worldwide. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.
There will be a Special Meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, September 13th, 2021. This meeting will be held to consider the following:
Consideration of change order on ladder fire truck
Consideration of payment for ladder fire truck
Consideration of donation of current ladder truck
Consideration of change order for Eagle Block Building
This meeting will be held at 123 S. Main Street in the City Commission meeting room. This meeting will be broadcast on the City’s You tube channel. This meeting is open to the public.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session for a 2022 budget session, all three Commissioners and the Deputy County Clerk were present.
Susan Bancroft was also present.
Due to COVID precautions, the meeting was closed to the public, but broadcast on YouTube.
Susan presented the Commissioners with a revised 2022 budget. She said that there is $256,000.00 more requested. Ambulance will be discussed at the next meeting because Shane is wanting to do some updates to move them from iPads to computers so they can use GIS and CAD systems.
Susan stated the main budget increases that were made this year were: Treasurers for publication costs; Register of Deeds for part time help; Courthouse General for increased insurance costs; District Court for legal defense; IT for shared services due to a part time person moving to full time and being shared with the city, but that will be reimbursed back by the city; Conservation requested an additional $3,800.00 in funding; Road and Bridge so they will be fully staffed and additional $50,000.00 for material on the roads; Special Bridge asked for an additional $40,000.00 for material; Public Safety increase due to wages and supplies and for the Jail Sales Tax we moved capital outlay from public safety over to jail sales tax from the Sheriffs funds; everyone is budgeted to get a 3% raise except for elected officials.
Susan stated she did include in the budget document a 10-year recap for each department as well. Sheriffs’ department tab includes a trend report that was requested to see what has been happening in that department. Major changes are from the time when the jail was built, commodities and contractual both stayed about the same but there was definitely a shift in personnel services. She said that contractual for Corrections has gone up in 2020 due to the food services industry and having a lot of inmates; depending on how many inmates there are will determine that cost.
Susan said that Road and Bridge section has their 10-year capital improvement plan and equipment replacement plan for reference.
ARPA funding is included behind the APRA budget so in case there were any questions you could refer to that tab and it will show what the ARPA funding can be spent on. Jim asked if there was another year to spend the ARPA money or if it had to be spent this year. Susan stated that the County actually has a couple of years to spend the money, it does not have to be spent this year.
Susan stated there is a debt service schedule included through 2035 that show when debt will fall off to help with decision making in the future when things come up. Jim stated there are several things coming off the schedule next year including the Landfill backhoe. Lynne stated that the jail pods on page 5 shows them coming out of fund 220 and that is not correct. Susan said that should be fund 370 and she will correct it. Lynne said that the lease payments for road and bridge are down tremendously from 7 years ago. Jim stated that several things were bought with cash and Lynne said several things were paid off when we had the cash too.
Susan said that what she needs permission for publishing page 28 and 29 the Notice of Budget Hearing to let the public know that September 14th at 9:20 is when the budget hearing will be. The cemetery board will have to have their own RNR hearings but those have been scheduled at the Courthouse on the same day 5 minutes apart and there are 4 of them that need to have those hearing and hopefully Kendell can get ahold of them to let them know that they need to be present. It was recommended by the State that those boards approve their own budgets. Fire District #3 is under the County and is under the revenue neutral rate. Susan asked for permission to publish the 2 pages in the newspaper if they are comfortable with the numbers.
Susan stated that the mill levy last year was 64.931 and this year it will be 62.5 mills, the revenue neutral rate was 62.130 mills. Lynne said that when you look at the houses sold and the appraised values going up and the new businesses it is phenomenal that we are at this point. Susan said that she looked at the school district, FSCC and the County compared to the City and all of their assessed values are trending up and the City’s is trending flat. We are seeing things grow in the County.
Lynne said that hopefully in Susan’s future we will see a packing plant but that is a 10-year plan. Susan said that she needs to get with the County Commissioners because there have been requests for improvements to the industrial park for the packing plant and we may need a partnership. The City may request to use some of the County ARPA funding in addition to the City’s, because the request is about $500,000.00 to get water and sewer to that plant. Lynne said that there would be a discussion in the future about this.
Lynne asked if EMS is part of what can be funded by ARPA and if any had been used this year. Susan said yes it can be used for EMS and they have not used any this year, but are requesting $26,000.00 to improve their equipment. Lynne said he was thinking a little bit bigger request such as for a new ambulance. Susan said she would want to get an opinion from the State on that.
Jim asked if the request was a must before they could start building the packing plant and felt it was late for a request to be made. Susan said that the request just came in. Susan said that the City will not get any kind of a tax benefit from the plant and that is why the City wants to ask the County for part of funding. She said that would be a valid use of ARPA funding. Lynne said that all the requests are valid and the funding is needed so we will have to set our priorities. Susan said the plant will be creating jobs. Clifton stated that we have to sustain an emergency room and that should be our main priority. The other commissioners agreed that healthcare should be the main priority. Susan recommended another joint City/County commission work session to talk through ARPA funding and make sure that we are accomplishing all of our goals because she knows the City is going to be asked also for healthcare as well. Lynne thinks that is a good idea.
Jim made a motion to allow Susan to publish the notice of budget as these numbers are given to us; Clifton seconded; all approved.
Susan gave an update on the audit stating that Terry will have a copy to the County next week to review. Jim asked what the purpose of a draft is. Susan said because it is the county’s financial statement as well as the audit and since he had to make so many adjustments that he wants to make sure there are no errors before the final draft is published. Susan said that he will be meeting with each commissioner individually this year. Jim asked if it was normal for him to meet individually with each commissioner and Susan responded that it is not the normal process. Lynne stated that this a new concept. Jim said he has not been through this process so he has to ask questions. Lynne said he understands the process is going to be different this year than it has in the past.
At 9:17 am, Clifton made a motion to adjourn; Jim seconded; all approved.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners, the County Counselor and the County Clerk present.
Also present were the following: (some were present for a portion of the meeting and some were present for the entire meeting) Susan Bancroft, Shane Walker, Bill Martin and Ben Cole.
Due to COVID, the meeting was closed to the public, but shown on YouTube.
Clifton made a motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, Jim seconded and all approved.
Eric Bailey presented the following permits that have been completed: 1741 Soldier Road, 1686 Express & 379 40th, the Commissioners signed the permits.
Eric said there has been a problem with the Landfill phone, he said AT&T is working on this issue, he said they may move this phone number to a cellphone. He said the hours for the Landfill are Monday-Friday 8-4 and Saturday from 8-12. If anyone has questions before the phone is fixed, regarding the Landfill, they can call the Courthouse to talk to the Road & Bridge secretary.
Eric said the valve is still leaking on the asphalt truck, they are working on it again today. Jim said in the past they had Van Keppel do repairs to the vehicle; Eric said Van Keppel would’ve taken three weeks to do the repairs.
Bean permits: Eric said they will be meeting with John George this week and are working on getting a composting permit.
Eric said he had a request for a school bus stop ahead sign at 1436 Wagon Road; Eric felt it warranted a sign there. Jim made a motion for public works to post a bus stop ahead sign at 1436 Wagon Road, Clifton seconded and all approved.
Eric said he will check on an area near the asphalt plant that has a school bus stop ahead sign posted.
Eric said another windmill is going up at 20th & Eagle.
Mini excavator discussion – Eric asked if they wanted to go out for bids to purchase one or not; Lynne said he would like to let Eric do what he needs to run his operation or at least put it out for bid. Jim said he went and looked at the machine; he said they have a difference of opinion and said he sold equipment for 13 years and said he would classify this machine as a mid-sized machine and not a mini. Jim said they will eventually need to spend money on two motor graders and one backhoe and said they could get by without the mini excavator. Clifton said they have a lot of road problems and culverts that need to be replaced. Susan said they could look at the State procurement contracts. After discussion, Lynne made a motion to go out for bids on a mini excavator, Clifton seconded, Jim said he opposed the motion and said they can’t afford the machine.
CIC software discussion: Clifton asked Eric if CIC was fully functionable for his department; Eric said it wasn’t and said it was very hard for them to use. He said there was a glitch in the system and Jennifer lost a lot of work that she had done on CIC. Clifton said if we pay for something he expects it to work. Shane Walker said the software had been sitting there, but it just wasn’t utilized. Clifton said he expected it to be fixed in a timely manner. Lynne asked for a guarantee on a timeline for it to be fixed. Susan said the City doesn’t use CIC, she said when they had it, it was very limited on what it could do, but said the customer service was good. Jennifer Hawkins, the Road & Bridge secretary, discussed some of her issues with CIC: she said she did numerous months of entries for the Landfill billing, but the data didn’t balance and, in the end, CIC deleted all her entries and she lost 4 ½ months of data. She said she wanted to use the map-it program, but was told it would be years before it worked. She said she asked about the work order program, but said they are still working on it 4 months later. She said they have problems with employee reports, A/P vouchers and problems with reports showing rock tonnage. She said their old program had signs data and bridges data, which was supposed to be imported, but said it still isn’t done. She has problems with reports on equipment. She said she is trying to utilize CIC; Lynne asked for a timeline on the fixes, Jennifer said they told her they are working on them. Susan discussed the CIC symposium; she said they take money and work on areas where people want the program improved. Susan said she would help Jennifer get the data she needs. Shane said he didn’t use the software and didn’t know anything about it other than he has it on the server; he said the public works software is old. Clifton questioned Eric about using a different software that Linn County uses. Eric said they needed a program documenting where every County sign is, bridges and a program for work orders; Shane suggested they use Teams for some of this, Eric said that Jimmy had set this up, but said it wasn’t an easy program to use. Shane said people had to know how to use Excel, he wanted to get people from the college here to teach Excel. Lynne said they needed to get CIC to work or find something that will work. Shane said we have a yearly maintenance agreement with CIC and said they have good support. This will be discussed again next week.
After collecting more data, next week Eric will discuss the crack filling machine that the City has.
Jim said the belly-dump trailer is still sitting; Eric said they are looking for a truck.
Lynne said they had a report that 140th & Ivory needed gravel.
County Counselor: Justin Meeks said he had reviewed the yearly CIC maintenance agreement and asked for approval for Lynne to sign it; Susan said they could hold off paying the public works portion of the contract. Clifton made a motion to allow Lynne to sign the maintenance agreement, Jim seconded and all approved. Kendell questioned if they were paying the full amount or excluding the public works portion; Clifton made a motion to withdraw his last motion until Shane has a discussion with them, Jim seconded and all approved. This will be discussed again next week.
Justin said they should have a final draft soon on the Lake Sewer District agreement.
Justin said they are ready to close on the BAJA Investment building.
Tax sale: Justin said this should happen at the end of September or the 1st of October.
Justin said next week they should have information out for the public on a subject they talked about last week.
The Commissioners will have a budget work session at 9:00 am Thursday, September 2, 2021.
Susan discussed the Spark MOU for Baja Investments; she said there is a clause in the MOU that states if the contract has been breached the property goes back to the County, she said the County did what they were supposed to do. Justin said the property will transfer to the County and then immediately to the new owner.
Susan said she received a request from Mental Health for ARPA funds; she said the County could consider this in the next round of funding. She said she has requested the Rural Water districts financial statements and will discuss the ARPA funds again next week.
Susan said the 2020 audit is in the draft stages and said she hoped to present it during next week’s meeting.
Bill Martin, Ben Cole and Beth Tatarko with The Austin Peters Group (by telephone) met with the Commissioners to discuss a salary study that Bill that asked them to do. They compared other counties and cities and a few private employers and reported that the average pay was $20.32 compared to $15.56 for Bourbon County employees (non-elected), she said it would cost an estimated $322,122 (cost of wages only, doesn’t include benefits) to bring the hourly employees wages to the average. She said Bourbon County doesn’t have a scale for pay wages and all employees will eventually make the same amount if they do the same job. She said the elected officials (with the exception of the Attorney) are less than the average as well. She said Bourbon County does have a more generous benefit package and leave time than others. Lynne said Bourbon County is behind and asked Bill what we could do to start moving forward. Lynne suggested having Susan review the study and give them recommendations. Clifton said they know they don’t pay enough. Beth said at times other governments have spread out over a two-year time frame to get their employees to the average. Jim asked Bill what his recommendations were: Bill said the Commissioners plan to reduce the mill levy by 2.5 mills, he suggested leaving the mill the same and setting that money aside for wages. The Commissioners thanked them for the presentation.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda for an executive session, Jim seconded and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to have a 10-minute executive session for KSA 75-4319(b) (1) to discuss personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel to protect their privacy regarding job function and job performance, the Commissioners will meet in another location and reconvene in the Commission room at 10:35, Jim seconded and all approved. At 10:35, Clifton made a motion to return to the regular session with no action, Jim seconded and all approved.
Commission Comment: Clifton said they have talked about wages for months and know this is a problem. Jim said they hear from business owners daily that taxes in Bourbon County are too high. He said the County needs to grow and if that happens, maybe they could take some of those funds from growth to use for the employees.
At 10:38, Clifton made a motion to adjourn, Jim seconded and all approved.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session for the CDBG-CV close out hearing with Commissioner Harris and Beth present, the County Clerk was also present.
SEKRPC representative Taylor Hogue and Economic Development Director Rob Harrington were also present.
Jim made a motion to open the public hearing for the CDBG-CV close out grant hearing, Clifton seconded and all approved.
Jim asked for questions or comments regarding the grant. Rob Harrington said he didn’t understand why the Bronson Locker wasn’t able to get a portion of this grant, he said the State had told Taylor that they weren’t awarded any of the grant money because they didn’t lose money; Rob said, however; they took out a loan (for equipment/expansion) to stay open. Taylor said that the Kansas Department of Commerce said meat lockers were denied because they were more in demand. Rob said there was a meat locker in Allen County that received Spark funding; Taylor said that Spark funds and CDBG-CV funds were different.
At 9:19, Clifton made a motion to close the public hearing for the CDBG-CV grant, Jim seconded and all approved.
Clifton made a motion that Chairman Oharah sign the CDBG-CV close out forms, Jim seconded and the motion passed.
At 9:21, Clifton made a motion to adjourn, Jim seconded and all approved.
There will be a Special Meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 13th, 2021. This meeting will be held to consider the following:
Consideration of change order on ladder fire truck
Consideration of payment for ladder fire truck
Consideration of donation of current ladder truck
Consideration of change order for Eagle Block Building
This meeting will be held at 123 S. Main Street in the City Commission meeting room. This meeting will be broadcast on the City’s You tube channel. This meeting is open to the public.
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM WITH NO PUBLIC ATTENDANCE (PUBLIC
ATTENDANCE VIA YOUTUBE)
Call to Order
Flag Salute
Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
2022 Budget Hearing
Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report / Sheriff Department Vehicle
CIC Contract
David Neville – Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
Robert Coon – A+ Bail Bonds
Kevin Davidson – Wages & Budget
Lora Holdridge – (Roads) Executive Session – 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
County Counselor Comment
Susan Bancroft, Finance Director Comment
Public Comment
Elected Officials 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.
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Funding for Frontline Nurses and Care Workers
~$50 Million in Funding Going to Nurse & Care Workers as Strain on Hospitals Continues to Increase~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced $50 million available for hospitals to either provide premium pay or improve retention of nursing resources and support personnel, approved by the SPARK Executive Committee. This emergency funding will provide immediate support for Kansas hospitals to manage the current COVID-19 surge and address critical shortages in nurse staffing across the state.
Qualified facilities may use the funding for either premium pay as defined in ARPA or for funding a program designed by the facility to improve the retention of nursing resources and support personnel. Premium pay may be distributed by the hospitals to frontline employees in the manner that they believe is most appropriate to ensure retention of critical resources and maintenance of staffed hospital beds.
“Many of our nurses are risking their lives every day to save Kansans from COVID-19 – and the immense strain on our hospitals is causing them to be exhausted and disheartened,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “They’re taking on extra shifts and caring for more patients than they can handle – and it’s our responsibility to give them the support they need.
“Frontline nurses need this funding to continue battling the COVID-19 surge here at home. I sincerely thank all Kansas frontline nurses and health care workers for all they do to protect our communities from the threat of COVID-19. I encourage all Kansans to do their part and get vaccinated immediately – for our health care workers, for our businesses, and for our families.”
The funding can provide frontline nurses and care workers with premium pay by increasing their hourly wages up to $13 per hour. Hospitals can apply for these State Fiscal Recovery Funds and receive funding based on their number of nursing resources, and will have discretion over how to distribute premium pay.
Additionally, hospitals will be allowed to use the funding for alternative purposes to retain staff if it meets compliance with ARPA guidance. Funding in retention programs must be spent on pay and associated benefits of qualified employees.
By October 31, 2021 and for each month thereafter, all Qualified Facilities receiving funding shall report the following to the Office of Recovery and the SPARK Committee:
The number of nurses on a full-time equivalence basis staffing ICU beds and non-ICU beds as of the most recent pay period ending prior to September 15, 2021, broken out by contract nurses and employees.
The number of nurses on a full-time equivalence basis staffing ICU beds and non-ICU beds as of the most recent pay period ending prior to or on October 31, 2021, broken out by contract nurses and employees.
How much of the money received by the Qualified Facility has been earned under the program to date.
The number of weeks the Qualified Facility has had the program in place.
The number of frontline clinical employees and nurses who left the employment of the Qualified Facility during the period from June 1, 2021 to August 31, 2021.
The number of frontline clinical employees and nurses who left the employment of the Qualified Facility during each month from September 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022.
For any terminations of clinical frontline workers and nurses from September 1, 2021 through February 28, 2022, the number of such terminations and the reason given for all voluntary and involuntary terminations.
All current Covid-related policies, such as testing policies, quarantine policies, and vaccine policies, and any changes thereto with the date such changes were announced and implemented.
Julie Glass, a nurse at Newman Regional Hospital in Emporia, posted to the hospital’s Facebook page last month: “It’s come to a point where you not only pray for your family member to not get COVID, but you pray that they don’t have any other illness or medical emergency either because there’s not enough space or staff for them to receive adequate medical care.”
Governor Kelly believes it is imperative to act now and protect the health and safety of our frontline nurses. This funding will ensure that Kansas hospitals are adequately equipped with experienced staff, rural hospitals can keep their doors open, and nurses can appropriately be compensated for their tireless and courageous work throughout this pandemic.
COVID-19 cases continue to rise across Kansas with a daily average of 1,331 new cases from August 30 to September 7 – levels not seen since January 2021. On September 10, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) reported 4,302 new COVID-19 cases since the last update two days prior. Hospitalizations continue to rise, with 612 hospitalized COVID patients as of September 10. This poses a challenge for hospitals to be able to provide surge support staffing and incentivize nurses to stay at their current pay rates.
More information will be provided to eligible Kansas hospitals in the coming days about how to access and properly allocate this funding to their nurses and frontline care workers.
Ashley Shelton was selected for the county clerk position at the Bourbon County Republican Party Convention on Sept. 9.
“I have worked in the Bourbon County Clerk’s Office since June of 2020,” Shelton said.
Shelton graduated high school at Yates Center and moved to Bourbon County in 2002 to attend Fort Scott Community College.
She and her husband Scott and have two boys ages 10 and 3.
“I have learned a lot from Kendell (Mason, the current clerk) during my time in her office and I feel that I could fulfill the duties of the county clerk position although I know I have big shoes to fill and a lot to learn,” Shelton said.
“Since I am deputy-clerk I will be acting clerk as of Sept. 14, until I receive my appointment from the state,” she said.
Shelton replaces Kendell Mason who resigned after nine years as county clerk. Mason’s last day is Sept. 13.
“The Republican Party notifies (the governor) who they selected and the governor will send a letter appointing her to that position,” Mason said.
“She will serve until November 2022, when there will be an election,” she said.
The clerk’s office is located in the north wing of the Bourbon County Courthouse on National Avenue.
The Bourbon County Clerk duties, taken from the county website are:
Serves as Secretary to the Board of County Commissioners; attends Commission meetings; prepares and posts agendas and keeps meeting minutes; maintains proceedings of Commission meetings, including all contracts and agreements entered into by the County.
Prepares annual budgets for most townships and fire districts and all cemeteries, watersheds, and light districts in the County.
Receives and compiles all budgets submitted by County entities, cities, townships, the community college, school districts, and all special districts.
Compiles, calculates, and prepares tax levies.
Prepares real estate, personal property, and state assessed tax roll, including special assessments, and certifies to County Treasurer.
Accumulates and files a bonded indebtedness report for all taxing entities in the County.
Carries out all elections and certifies to the Secretary of State; maintains voter database; accepts filings for public office; keeps financial statements of expenses from the county, city, school district candidates.
Provides Accounts Payable and Payroll functions for all County departments; receives all claims filed against the County.
Provides checks and balances to property transfers, motor vehicle collections, and Treasurer’s daily ledger activities.
Serves as the County Freedom of Information Officer.
Maintains fixed asset inventory for the County.
Provides assistance to County residents in preparing Homestead Property Tax Refund and Food Sales Tax Applications for the Kansas Department of Revenue.
Issues Cereal Malt Beverage Licenses to establishments outside the city limits and issues Firework Permits to stands throughout the County for 4th of July week.
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