Category Archives: Government

Updated Agenda for the FS City Commission, June 15

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL

CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
JUNE 15, 2021
6:00 P.M.

Call to Order

  1. Roll Call:

  2. K. Allen P. Allen R. Nichols L. Watts J. Jones

II. Flag Salute:

  1. Invocation: Led by: (To be Announced)

  2. Approval of Agenda:

  3. Proclamations/Recognitions:

  4. Consent Agenda:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 1st, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1290-A totaling $433,403.91.

  1. Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc – $13,993.75 – River Intake Project

  1. May financials

  1. Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

  1. City Manager Reports and Comments:

  1. Engineering Firm Update:

  1. Director Report:

  1. Old Business: None

  1. Appearances: Bob Reed – Street Closure Request for Bourbon County Fair

  1. New Business:

  1. Resolution No. 8-2021 – Resolution accepting the 2022 Street recommendations from the Street Advisory Board for the 2022 budget.

  2. Consideration of Proposal – Utility Locating and Marking Services – USIC

  3. Approval to purchase Four Post Vehicle Lift

  4. Approval to purchase Bobcat Track Loader

  5. Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – July 4th – 300 Block of Coates Street

  6. Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Burke Street Parade –

  7. Approval to bid out front staircase of Memorial Hall

  8. Discussion of survey of Lake Fort Scott lots and approval to record the lots

  9. Discussion of Golf Cart Ordinance

  10. Revisitation of previous discussion of mowing contract

  11. Consideration of Engineering Proposal for National Avenue Reconstruction from 13th to 17th Street.

  12. Re-discussion of Mill and Overlay of National – 13th to Highway 69

XII. Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

Josh Jones – SRO Officer Update

Municipal Court Update

First Source Building Update

Smart Growth Update

B. City Attorney Reports and Comments:

XIII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)

Executive Session – Attorney/Client Privilege

XIV. Adjournment:

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for June 15

Agenda 

Bourbon County Commission Room 

1st Floor, County Courthouse 

210 S. National Avenue 

Fort Scott, KS 66701 

Tuesdays starting at 9:00 

 

Date: June 15, 2021 

1st District-Lynne Oharah                                                                Minutes: Approved: _______________ 

2nd DistrictJim Harris                                                                      Corrected: _______________________ 

3rd District-Clifton Beth                                                                              Adjourned at: _______________ 

County Clerk-Kendell Mason 

 

 

MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM. 

 

 

Call to Order 

 

  • Flag Salute 
  • Approval of Minutes from previous meeting 
  • KDOT Road Closing 
  • Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report 
  • Kendell Mason – Commissioners to Review 2020 Annual Statements 
  • KWORCC – Jess Pfannenstiel – Work Comp. Insurance 
  • Discussion regarding Jacqie Spradling 
  • Discussion about Social Media Fact Checker 
  • Justin Meeks – County Counselor Budget Review 
  • Katrina Braim – Jacqie Spradling 
  • Elected Officials Comment 
  • County Counselor Comment 
  • Susan Bancroft, Finance Director 
  • 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 o

Governor Urges Extending Disaster Declaration

Governor Laura Kelly Sends Letter Urging LCC to Extend Disaster Declaration

TOPEKA – The following is a letter from Governor Laura Kelly urging Senate President Ty Masterson and members of the Legislative Coordinating Council to extend the current State of Disaster Emergency Declaration. View a PDF of the letter here. 

President Masterson,

On May 24, 2021, I submitted my first application for a 30-day extension of the COVID-19 state of disaster emergency to the Legislative Coordinating Council (“LCC”) pursuant to Senate Bill 40’s amendments to the Kansas Emergency Management Act (“KEMA”).  K.S.A. 48-924(b)(3).  Please consider this letter my specific application to extend the COVID-19 state of disaster emergency up to and including July 15, 2021.

While these conversations took place back in March, I do want to point out that my Chief of Staff discussed with legislators during session that the objective has been to get to the fall of 2021 and the start of the new school year to ensure that vaccine efforts are not stalled or impeded.  To build on those conversations, I am including with this specific application an outline of the current plan regarding the State Emergency Operations Center (“SEOC”) and a timeline for demobilization of those efforts.  This plan will include the following components:

  • Priorities and objectives to be completed by August 30, 2021;
  • SEOC COVID-19 activities closure timeline;
  • Rescinding or sunsetting of current executive orders based on the priorities and objectives to be achieved by August 30, 2021.

The plan I present to you in this application continues to reduce the number of activities and pandemic emergency executive orders as we move closer ending the emergency declaration. Ultimately, this plan will require extensions from the LCC to August 30, 2021 as outlined below.

Priorities and Objectives to be Completed by August 30, 2021

There are several priorities that continue to need the attention of the State of Kansas and that require an extension of the state of disaster emergency declaration.  First, we need to continue efforts to vaccinate school-aged children to allow schools to resume normal activities beginning this fall.  As of June 11, 2021, Kansas has vaccinated 48,045 (20.1%) of children age 12-17. Based on current projections, we anticipate being able to have between 100,000 (42%) to 118,000 (49%) of this age group vaccinated by the end of August. There was a notable decline in the rate of children vaccinations as school ended for the summer. Vaccination efforts planned around the back to school period of early to mid-August will greatly increase the rate of vaccinations for this age group.

Second, we need KDEM to continue to support the distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine through our mobile clinics.  The Kansas National Guard (“KSNG”) has administered 122,323 vaccines with 4,360 of those being administered since May 28, 2021.  These efforts are directly tied to Executive Order 21-21 through the use of contract nurses who are able to perform vaccinations more easily under the order’s provisions.  These contract nurses have delivered 45,981 vaccines across the state of Kansas.  We continue to receive requests from employers to do onsite vaccination clinics, which is important to continue to vaccinate the workforce.  To date, we have completed vaccine clinics at 47 employer locations across the state.  The total number of employees who have had the opportunity to get vaccinated through this employer-partnership exceeds 40,000 Kansans.  And, as of the writing of this letter, there are an additional 12 employers who have requested vaccination clinics for their nearly 5,000 (total) employees that are being scheduled. We have an additional 20 community vaccination clinics already scheduled between June 12 and July 27, 2021.

Third, we continue to receive resource requests from counties and hospitals that need to be fulfilled.  We have received 5,090 resource requests for personal protective equipment (PPE), supplies, personnel and equipment.  We have delivered 114,234 cases of PPE through these requests.  Since May 28, 2021, there have been 26 requests, totaling 28,976 cases of PPE.  Some of this equipment, such as ventilators, will need to be returned, inventoried, and receive maintenance work.  Having a scheduled ramp-down will give counties and hospitals time to plan and understand that these resources will become unavailable after August 30th.

Fourth, as outlined below regarding executive orders, we need to continue requiring testing at our adult care homes and underserved populations.  KSNG has tested over 30,603 individuals and transported over 26,304 samples to Kansas Health and Environment Laboratory (KHEL) with 297 of those samples since May 28, 2021. While these efforts will ultimately become part of KDHE’s normal operation, we need to continue to support these efforts through August 30th.

Without a disaster declaration in place, these priorities and objectives cannot be effectively accomplished. As you know, aside from removing the legal basis for conducting much of these efforts, the federal emergency response funding Kansas receives may be immediately imperiled if the disaster declaration expires. Pursuant to KEMA, the Adjutant General loses his authority to mission assign agencies such as the Civil Air Patrol, Highway Patrol, and others as part of the state response.  These agencies do not have liability protection for work conducted in these efforts absent the emergency declaration.

Additionally, some of our most vulnerable Kansans would lose the emergency allotment of SNAP benefits the federal government provides to states with active COVID-19 emergency responses. Approximately 63,000 Kansas households would be affected by a loss of this additional financial support, and a total of around $14.5 million in additional benefits to those vulnerable Kansans and to our economy would be lost. While many of the elements of our emergency response from last summer are no longer essential, the disaster declaration itself is still essential.

SEOC COVID-19 Activities Closure Timeline

While there are certain activities that need to continue as described above, the list below indicates the mission assignments and activities that have been closed and which ones would be re-opened under an extension of the emergency declaration.

Mission Assignments

MISSION ASSIGNMENT DESCRIPTION

CLOSURE DATE

AGENCY

Transportation (Vaccine Support)*

06/03/2021

Civil Air Patrol (CAP)

Contract Nurses**

06/08/2021

KDEM

Security for Vaccine Clinics*

06/11/2021

KHP

Facility for Vaccine Clinic*

06/11/2021

KSHS

Message Boards*

06/11/2021

KDOT

Courier Mission

06/11/2021

KSNG

Vaccine Administration

06/15/2021

KSNG

EPI Support to ESF 8

06/15/2021

KSNG

JIC Support

06/15/2021

KDOT

Non-Congregate Shelter Management

06/15/2021

DCF

Distribution of Vaccine (FedEx)

06/15/2021

KDEM

FirstNet Phones

06/15/2021

KDEM

Contracting Support

06/15/2021

TAG

JIC Manager

06/15/2021

TAG

* May be extended if emergency declaration is extended.

 ** Has been transferred to KDHE

Non-Congregate Shelters and Supporting Contracts

CITY/COUNTY

CLOSURE DATE

Liberal/Seward

06/03/2021

Salina/Saline

06/07/2021

Emporia/Lyons

06/09/2021

Gardner/Johnson

06/15/2021

Lansing/Leavenworth

06/15/2021

Kansas City/Wyandotte*

NLT 07/15/2021

* This contract cannot be ended prior to July 15, 2021.  Without the declaration extension the state assumes all legal and financial liabilities.

Food & Commodities

INVENTORY

CLOSURE DATE

Pantry Packs

06/03/2021

Bulk Food

06/03/2021

Rescinding or Sunsetting Executive Orders

Our administration has worked diligently to enable our state to responsibly pare down the number of pandemic emergency executive orders in place since the beginning of 2021. As of today, only nine pandemic executive orders remain in effect. In my May 24, 2021 application to extend the disaster declaration, I stated that in the weeks and months to come I would consider rescinding additional executive orders. In that continued effort, on June 14, 2021, I will issue an order rescinding all but two of the nine remaining pandemic executive orders. Orders will be rescinded as follows:

Order

Subject

Rescission Date

21-10

Remote notaries and witnesses

July 15, 2021

21-12

Licensure of adult care homes

June 15, 2021

21-16

Driver’s license renewals

June 30, 2021

21-17

Waiving the waiting week for unemployment benefits

June 15, 2021

21-18

Income tax withholding for out-of-state telework

June 15, 2021

21-19

Tuberculin testing requirements

June 15, 2021

21-20

Deadline for rural water district annual meetings

June 30, 2021

The two executive orders I do not intend to rescind at this time are 21-15 and 21-21. Executive Order 21-15 is the only mechanism in place to require COVID-19 testing in certain adult care homes licensed by the state. Without this order in place, the state’s ability to ensure the health and safety of staff and residents at such adult care homes will be severely compromised. Executive Order 21-21 grants temporary authority to certain medical personnel to administer COVID-19 vaccinations. Continued efforts to vaccinate as many Kansans as quickly as possible will be unnecessarily impeded if it expires.

The time to conclude our emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic under KEMA and to transition to a new normal for dealing with COVID-19 through standard authorities is approaching, but that time has not yet arrived. At the LCC’s May 28, 2021 meeting, some LCC members indicated that they wanted to see a plan for how we wind the emergency response down and return to normal. Our administration has now provided that plan. It will take until August 30, 2021, to execute it.

As circumstances have changed, we have transitioned to an emergency response that has been trimmed down to vaccination efforts, logistical support to local communities, finishing an orderly return to normal in state agencies, and securing federal financial support for our efforts.  While COVID-19 could become an ever-present threat to public health if vaccination rates continue to decline, our emergency response will not be permanent. We owe it to Kansans to finish the job and wind down the state of disaster emergency responsibly.

As with the LCC’s previous meeting to consider an extension, at next Tuesday’s meeting Major General Weishaar, Dr. Norman, and members of my staff will be present to answer any questions the LCC may have.

Sincerely,

Laura Kelly

Governor

CC:      Representative Ron Ryckman, Speaker of the House of Representatives

            Senator Rick Wilborn, Vice President of the Senate

            Senator Larry Alley, Senate Majority Leader

            Senator Dinah Sykes, Senate Minority Leader

            Representative Blaine Finch,
Speaker Pro Tem of the House of Representatives

            Representative Dan Hawkins, House Majority Leader

            Representative Tom Sawyer, House Minority Leader

            Gordon Self, Revisor of Statutes

FS Commission Agenda for June 15

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL

CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
JUNE 15, 2021
6:00 P.M.

Call to Order

  1. Roll Call:

  2. K. Allen P. Allen R. Nichols L. Watts J. Jones

II. Flag Salute:

  1. Invocation: Led by: (To be Announced)

  2. Approval of Agenda:

  3. Proclamations/Recognitions:

  4. Consent Agenda:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of June 1st, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1290-A totaling $433,403.91.

  1. Request to Pay – HDR Engineering, Inc – $13,993.75 – River Intake Project

  1. Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

  1. City Manager Reports and Comments:

  1. Engineering Firm Update:

  1. Director Report:

  1. Old Business: None

  1. Appearances: Bob Reed – Street Closure Request for Bourbon County Fair

  1. New Business:

  1. Resolution No. 8-2021 – Resolution accepting the 2022 Street recommendations from the Street Advisory Board for the 2022 budget.

  2. Consideration of Proposal – Utility Locating and Marking Services – USIC

  3. Approval to purchase Four Post Vehicle Lift

  4. Approval to purchase Bobcat Track Loader

  5. Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – July 4th – 300 Block of Coates Street

  6. Consideration of Temporary Street Closure – Burke Street Parade –

  7. Re-discussion of Mill and Overlay of National – 13th to Highway 69

  8. Approval to bid out front staircase of Memorial Hall

  9. Discussion of survey of Lake Fort Scott lots and approval to record the lots

  10. Discussion of Golf Cart Ordinance

  11. Revisitation of previous discussion of mowing contract

XII. Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioners Reports and Comments:

Josh Jones – SRO Officer Update

Municipal Court Update

First Source Building Update

Smart Growth Update

B. City Attorney Reports and Comments:

XIII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for Executive Sessions)

Executive Session – Attorney/Client Privilege

XIV. Adjournment:

FS Commission Minutes of June 1

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes are unapproved until the June 15 meeting

Minutes of June 1st, 2021 Regular Meeting #11

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 1st, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners P. Allen, and R. Nichols were present with President of the Commission K. Allen presiding. L. Watts connected by Zoom. J. Jones was absent.

INVOCATION: Paul Martin, Community Christian Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Jason Dickman, Bill Meyer, Paul Martin, Ann Rawlins, David Stuart, Jon Eden, Cheryl Zimmerman, Matt Zimmerman, Zach Bradley, Ryan Collier, Justin Uhler, James Brackett, Bill Lemke, Dave Bruner, Steve Mason, Janice Allen, and Allyson Turvey.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Navy Fireman 3rd Class William L. Barnett Proclamation – President of the Commission, Kevin Allen, read a Proclamation proclaiming May 29th, 2021 as William L. Barnett Day in the City of Fort Scott.

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 18th, 2021 and special meeting of May 25th, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1289-A totaling $325,700.29.

  1. Request to Pay #2 – Triangle Builders, LLC – Mayco Ace Project – $100,429

  1. Request to Pay – Insco Industries – Pool Brush Blasting & Repainting – Aquatic Center

Original Contract $32,750.00

Change Order #1 $ 925.00

Change Order #2 $ 600.00

Change Order #3 $ 45.00

Total $34,320.00

Dave Bruner shared photos of the pool brush blasting and repainting repair that was completed at the Aquatic Center.

K. Allen moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

Bob Farmer, City Attorney, informed the Commission that he wished to address the May 25th, 2021, City Commission minutes. He said he was not in attendance at that meeting. He said that you accepted a letter from Mr. Hoyt and printed it verbatim in your minutes as if it was the City. He has two problems with this. One is it was a special meeting and it was completely off task. The other is probably more important in his opinion, but we are in the middle of litigation. There is a lot of things in that letter that are opinions. We need to stay away from other people’s opinions. They are not our opinions. They are not our official anything. To recognize those, puts the City at risk. We don’t get in the middle of opinions on litigation issues. His suggestion would be that that be removed from those minutes.

R. Nichols moved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.

Approved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes.

Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

Bill Meyer – Mr. Meyer said he was here to speak in favor of the Planning Commission’s decision not to rezone the property at 2127 Jayhawk from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). He shared photos of his property and his back yard which butts up against the golf course. He lives at 14 Golfview Drive. They want to put a 50’ X 40’ structure in that area. This is a nice residential area that was annexed into the City and the residents do not want this commercial business in their neighborhood. He shared another photo of 2087 18th Street which is an automotive repair shop with lots of vehicles stored there. They do not want that in their neighborhood. At the Planning Commission meeting, there were numerous Golfview residents there who spoke in opposition to this zoning change. He asked them to do the same so they can maintain their residential neighborhood.

James Brackett – Mr. Brackett said that his son has lived here for several years and he recently retired in July of 2020 and moved here. They would like to open a small auto repair shop at their location, so he approached Ally and asked her how to go about to get the property rezoned. He asked for their consideration in the rezoning of this property.

City Manager Report and Comments: Jeremy Frazier, City Manager, informed the Commission that the City is wrapping up its efforts to start the demolition process of abandoned homes. It can take up to 90 days before the work can begin. Letters have been sent out with a deadline. He had a list of seven properties that he gave the Commission a list of. Lyle and Ally have been working hard on this process. There is a $50,000 budget for demolitions.

Kevin asked about the County and the demolition landfill fees.

Jeremy said that we are waiting on the County Attorney. Jeremy said that Susan is working hard on budgets and meeting with Directors. He has been working with the City engineer and working on several projects such as Cooper Street and several drainage issues. He discussed the K.U. Urban Planning and involving their students to look at a landscaping project in front of F.S.C.C. between 18th and 23rd Street on Horton. Fort Scott Forward continues to be held the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:45 a.m. at the River Room Event Center. Jeremy said that the Fort Scott Barber Shop gave out vouchers to all City employees which was a very nice gesture.

Pete mentioned that he and Jeremy were looking at drainage issues in front of the donut shop on National and a lady wanted to be introduced to Jeremy and stopped by. She came back later with a long john for each of them.

Appearances:

Alison Leach – Monarch Habitat – Alison asked to be removed from the agenda as she is not prepared to address the Commission on this issue yet).

Street Advisory Board Presentation – Brian Allen, Board Member of the Street Advisory Board, informed the Commission that their board met on May 13th, 2021 and went over several streets in dire need of repair. Their recommendation for 2022 is as follows:

Broadway Street Wall to Charles Asphalt Street

Crawford Street 3rd to Wall Street Brick Street

Crescent-Archer-Linden Asphalt Street

East 10th Street to Railroad Tracks Asphalt/Concrete

Main Street 6th To Skubitz Brick

Kevin also mentioned using inmates to assist with street repair. This program had been closed down due to Covid.

The Commission thanked the Street Advisory Board for their hard work in the recommendation of these streets.

City Attorney recommended have a resolution put together to adopt these streets for the next meeting.

Director Reports: None

Old Business: None

Public Hearings: 6:15 p.m. Vacation of platted alley located between Lots 1-7, Block 2 and Lots 1-10, Block 1, Pratel Addition, and the platted alley between Lots 1-5, Block 2, and Lots 6, 7, & 9, Block 2, Pratel Addition, more commonly known as north of 0 N. Crawford.

L. Watts moved to open the Public Hearing at 6:49 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

OPENED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:49 P.M.

Allyson Turvey informed the Commission that Zach Bradley has requested that the two platted alleys located near his business be vacated. He owns the property all around this area. He is going to be putting his cattle washout business in this area. Zach has gotten the property rezoned and has obtained his licenses from the State of Kansas that are needed for his business.

Kevin asked for any comments from the audience.

Ryan Collier said that he owns the blue building across from this property. He said he is concerned about the smell as well as what chemicals will be put into our water source into the Marmaton River.

Ally said that he has obtained all his permits from the State of Kansas.

R. Nichols moved to approve Ordinance No. 3584 vacating the two alleys. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED VACATION OF THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-7, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 1-10, BLOCK 1, PRATEL ADDITION AND THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-5, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 6, 7, & 9, BLOCK 2, PRATEL ADDITION AND APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3584 ADOPTING THE VACATING OF THE ALLEYS.

R. Nichols moved to close the Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:55 P.M.

New Business:

  1. Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to C-1 (Commercial) for the property at 124 S. Judson Street – Approval of Ordinance No. 3581 – Ally Turvey informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Commercial. The plan for the property is to be an accounting agency on the lower floor and an apartment upstairs. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.

R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3581. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3581 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO C-1 (COMMERCIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 124 SOUTH JUDSON STREET.

  1. Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to I-1 (Industrial) for the property at 310 N. National Avenue – Approval of Ordinance No. 3582 – Ally informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Industrial. This property consists of 1.6 acres and the owner would like to manufacture wood pallets. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.

R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3582. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3582 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO I-1 (INDUSTRIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 310 N. NATIONAL AVENUE.

  1. Consideration of change in zoning from A-G (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 Jayhawk Road – Approval of Ordinance No. 3583 – Ally said that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Agricultural to Mixed Use. The proposed use for the property was to build a garage and allow mechanical work to be completed there. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denying this zoning change due to the fact that they want to leave their neighborhoods as a residential area. You have heard from a couple of people already about this zoning change.

Kevin informed Mr. Brackett to contact Ally and see if there is another location for his proposed mechanic garage.

R. Nichols moved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). All voted aye.

approved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 jayhawk road.

  1. Discussion of 2021 Contract Mowing Bid Award – Ally sent an email last Friday to the City Commission asking that the mowing contract that was awarded to Justin Uhler be rescinded and offered to the next bidder which is Doug Miller. She is greatly concerned by the growing number of properties which have not been mowed. As of Friday, there were 156 properties to be mowed and only 27 had been turned in that had been mowed. She did speak to Justin Uhler who told her that the property owners had mowed some of the properties, but all of the properties have not been mowed. There are over 120 properties to be mowed. A copy of the bid tabulation as well as the bid request is included in the packet. She knows there was a lot of rain lately. She shared data of precipitation over the month of May. The City is receiving a lot of phone calls about the high grass. There is a procedure that has to be followed and the grass has to be 8” in height. The property owner is notified one time, and then the City mows the lot.

Ryan Collier said that he helps Justin Uhler with mowing. They didn’t get the list until May 7th. He said that he made a phone call to Ally about the tall grass at the City building to the east of him. He said they were dealt a bad hand to start with.

Ally said that the bid was approved long before May 7th. The first round of letters went out April 26th.

Mr. Collier also mentioned the amount of brush and trash on the properties and that they don’t have time to mow and pick up all the brush and debris on the property.

Justin said that every Monday he meets with Lyle. He said that some of these yards are taking three and four hours to mow due to the height of the grass.

Kevin stated that he thinks they deserve some time to prove themselves before the contract is moved to another bidder. He thinks they deserve another couple of weeks to prove themselves.

  1. Memorandum of Understanding – Bradley – signage – Ally informed the Commission that Zach Bradley is working to establish a new business, which is a cattle washout site. Due to the location of his property, he is requesting that the City allow him to place a business sign on City owned property located on Pratel Street near National Avenue. If approved, Mr. Bradley will sign a Memorandum of Understanding stating he is responsible for the sign.

City Attorney said that he saw this when he returned to the office on Tuesday. He said that he is not opposed to this, but allowing private use of public property could open a lot of issues. He asked the Commission to table this at this time since the business isn’t open yet. One of the issues is allowing this and what limitations you will allow and setting a precedence. He will do some research on this.

R. Nichols moved to table this item at this time. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

TABLED THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AT THIS TIME.

 

  1. Consideration and Award of Bid – Pest Control – City Manager said that bids were sent out for the consideration and award of Pest Control spraying at nine (9) City facilities. There were three bids received with the low bid from Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $475.00 monthly, Quality Pest Control of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $480.00, and Ashcraft Pest Control (local company) in the amount of $500.00 per month. Approval for the local company, Ashcraft Pest Control, is recommended as it is within the 7% range. This is a three year contract.

R. Nichols moved to approve the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approved the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. this is a three year contract.

  1. Consideration and Award of Bid – Sanitation Service – Kevin said that bids were sent out for the pickup of sanitation at all City locations. There were three bids received with the low bid from 4 State Sanitation in the amount of $1,105.00 monthly, Short’s Trash Service of Frontenac, Kansas in the amount of $1,240.98; and GFL Environmental, Inc. of Lebanon, Missouri in the amount of $1,336.00. Approval for the local bid with 4 States Sanitation is recommended. This is a three year contract.

Cheryl Zimmerman of Short’s Trash Service thanked the Commission for allowing them to bid on this service.

P. Allen moved to approve the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. L. Watt seconded. All voted aye.

approved the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. This is a three year contract.

K. Allen left the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

  1. Consideration and Award of Bid – Port-A-Potty Service – R. Nichols said that bids were sent out for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. There were two bids received with Skitch’s, Inc at a cost of $390.00 and a bid from Mid-America Sanitation at a cost of $1,365.00 on a weekly basis. Approval for the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. is recommended.

L. Watts moved to approve the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approved the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract.

K. Allen returned to the meeting at 7:42 p.m.

  1. Consideration to Bid Mill and Overlay Horton Street – 6th to 8th – City Manager asked the Commission if they would like to go out for bid for the mill and overlay of Horton Street between 6th and 8th Street.

Bill Lemke said that they hope to go out for bid and mill off 4” and lay 4” of asphalt down. The street has a lot of problems. Some could be old asphalt and some could be base issues. He asked to send this out for bid.

Kevin asked if the bid included the City would maintain all the millings.

Bill said yes. Some contractors may want to use a portion of those millings back into their process, but they can discuss that.

Pete said that it costs $4.65 for a yard and a half. How much will it cost for 4” of milling.

Bill said that before, when the street was worked on, only 2” was milled off.

Discussion was held on core drilling the street to see the base.

Pete said it was a simple process to dig a hole and look at the base and we can do that ourselves.

Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

L. Watts – Nothing to report.

R. Nichols – Remarked that the mural under the bridge at Riverfront is remarkable.

Said at the next meeting he would like an update on Smart Growth and how it relates to economic development.

P. Allen – Said that he appreciates all that the City Commission has done recently. He stated that Bob keeps us in pocket and out of trouble. He appreciates Jeremy’s assistance. He also said that he thinks we are headed in the right direction and working hard for the people in this community.

K. Allen – Thanked Stephen Toal for the beautiful murals he has recently painted in Fort Scott.

J. Jones – Not present.

City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.

Adjournment:

R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 p.m. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:02 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Minutes of June 1st, 2021 Regular Meeting #11

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 1st, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners P. Allen, and R. Nichols were present with President of the Commission K. Allen presiding. L. Watts connected by Zoom. J. Jones was absent.

INVOCATION: Paul Martin, Community Christian Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Jason Dickman, Bill Meyer, Paul Martin, Ann Rawlins, David Stuart, Jon Eden, Cheryl Zimmerman, Matt Zimmerman, Zach Bradley, Ryan Collier, Justin Uhler, James Brackett, Bill Lemke, Dave Bruner, Steve Mason, Janice Allen, and Allyson Turvey.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Navy Fireman 3rd Class William L. Barnett Proclamation – President of the Commission, Kevin Allen, read a Proclamation proclaiming May 29th, 2021 as William L. Barnett Day in the City of Fort Scott.

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 18th, 2021 and special meeting of May 25th, 2021.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1289-A totaling $325,700.29.

  1. Request to Pay #2 – Triangle Builders, LLC – Mayco Ace Project – $100,429

  1. Request to Pay – Insco Industries – Pool Brush Blasting & Repainting – Aquatic Center

Original Contract $32,750.00

Change Order #1 $ 925.00

Change Order #2 $ 600.00

Change Order #3 $ 45.00

Total $34,320.00

Dave Bruner shared photos of the pool brush blasting and repainting repair that was completed at the Aquatic Center.

K. Allen moved to approve the Consent Agenda. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

Bob Farmer, City Attorney, informed the Commission that he wished to address the May 25th, 2021, City Commission minutes. He said he was not in attendance at that meeting. He said that you accepted a letter from Mr. Hoyt and printed it verbatim in your minutes as if it was the City. He has two problems with this. One is it was a special meeting and it was completely off task. The other is probably more important in his opinion, but we are in the middle of litigation. There is a lot of things in that letter that are opinions. We need to stay away from other people’s opinions. They are not our opinions. They are not our official anything. To recognize those, puts the City at risk. We don’t get in the middle of opinions on litigation issues. His suggestion would be that that be removed from those minutes.

R. Nichols moved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and K. Allen voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried.

Approved to modify the Consent Agenda and remove those comments from Mr. Hoyt in the May 25th, 2021 special meeting minutes.

Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on the agenda and limited to 5 minutes per person, at Commission discretion)

Bill Meyer – Mr. Meyer said he was here to speak in favor of the Planning Commission’s decision not to rezone the property at 2127 Jayhawk from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). He shared photos of his property and his back yard which butts up against the golf course. He lives at 14 Golfview Drive. They want to put a 50’ X 40’ structure in that area. This is a nice residential area that was annexed into the City and the residents do not want this commercial business in their neighborhood. He shared another photo of 2087 18th Street which is an automotive repair shop with lots of vehicles stored there. They do not want that in their neighborhood. At the Planning Commission meeting, there were numerous Golfview residents there who spoke in opposition to this zoning change. He asked them to do the same so they can maintain their residential neighborhood.

James Brackett – Mr. Brackett said that his son has lived here for several years and he recently retired in July of 2020 and moved here. They would like to open a small auto repair shop at their location, so he approached Ally and asked her how to go about to get the property rezoned. He asked for their consideration in the rezoning of this property.

City Manager Report and Comments: Jeremy Frazier, City Manager, informed the Commission that the City is wrapping up its efforts to start the demolition process of abandoned homes. It can take up to 90 days before the work can begin. Letters have been sent out with a deadline. He had a list of seven properties that he gave the Commission a list of. Lyle and Ally have been working hard on this process. There is a $50,000 budget for demolitions.

Kevin asked about the County and the demolition landfill fees.

Jeremy said that we are waiting on the County Attorney. Jeremy said that Susan is working hard on budgets and meeting with Directors. He has been working with the City engineer and working on several projects such as Cooper Street and several drainage issues. He discussed the K.U. Urban Planning and involving their students to look at a landscaping project in front of F.S.C.C. between 18th and 23rd Street on Horton. Fort Scott Forward continues to be held the 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:45 a.m. at the River Room Event Center. Jeremy said that the Fort Scott Barber Shop gave out vouchers to all City employees which was a very nice gesture.

Pete mentioned that he and Jeremy were looking at drainage issues in front of the donut shop on National and a lady wanted to be introduced to Jeremy and stopped by. She came back later with a long john for each of them.

Appearances:

Alison Leach – Monarch Habitat – Alison asked to be removed from the agenda as she is not prepared to address the Commission on this issue yet).

Street Advisory Board Presentation – Brian Allen, Board Member of the Street Advisory Board, informed the Commission that their board met on May 13th, 2021 and went over several streets in dire need of repair. Their recommendation for 2022 is as follows:

Broadway Street Wall to Charles Asphalt Street

Crawford Street 3rd to Wall Street Brick Street

Crescent-Archer-Linden Asphalt Street

East 10th Street to Railroad Tracks Asphalt/Concrete

Main Street 6th To Skubitz Brick

Kevin also mentioned using inmates to assist with street repair. This program had been closed down due to Covid.

The Commission thanked the Street Advisory Board for their hard work in the recommendation of these streets.

City Attorney recommended have a resolution put together to adopt these streets for the next meeting.

Director Reports: None

Old Business: None

Public Hearings: 6:15 p.m. Vacation of platted alley located between Lots 1-7, Block 2 and Lots 1-10, Block 1, Pratel Addition, and the platted alley between Lots 1-5, Block 2, and Lots 6, 7, & 9, Block 2, Pratel Addition, more commonly known as north of 0 N. Crawford.

L. Watts moved to open the Public Hearing at 6:49 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

OPENED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:49 P.M.

Allyson Turvey informed the Commission that Zach Bradley has requested that the two platted alleys located near his business be vacated. He owns the property all around this area. He is going to be putting his cattle washout business in this area. Zach has gotten the property rezoned and has obtained his licenses from the State of Kansas that are needed for his business.

Kevin asked for any comments from the audience.

Ryan Collier said that he owns the blue building across from this property. He said he is concerned about the smell as well as what chemicals will be put into our water source into the Marmaton River.

Ally said that he has obtained all his permits from the State of Kansas.

R. Nichols moved to approve Ordinance No. 3584 vacating the two alleys. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED VACATION OF THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-7, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 1-10, BLOCK 1, PRATEL ADDITION AND THE PLATTED ALLEY BETWEEN LOTS 1-5, BLOCK 2, AND LOTS 6, 7, & 9, BLOCK 2, PRATEL ADDITION AND APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3584 ADOPTING THE VACATING OF THE ALLEYS.

R. Nichols moved to close the Public Hearing at 6:55 p.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:55 P.M.

New Business:

  1. Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to C-1 (Commercial) for the property at 124 S. Judson Street – Approval of Ordinance No. 3581 – Ally Turvey informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Commercial. The plan for the property is to be an accounting agency on the lower floor and an apartment upstairs. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.

R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3581. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3581 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO C-1 (COMMERCIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 124 SOUTH JUDSON STREET.

  1. Consideration of change in zoning from R-1 (Residential) to I-1 (Industrial) for the property at 310 N. National Avenue – Approval of Ordinance No. 3582 – Ally informed the Commission that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Residential to Industrial. This property consists of 1.6 acres and the owner would like to manufacture wood pallets. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of this zoning change.

R. Nichols moved to approve the zoning change and approved Ordinance No. 3582. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3582 CHANGING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATIONS OR DISTRICTS OF CERTAIN LANDS LOCATED IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, UNDER THE AUTHORITY GRANTED BY K.S.A. 1973, SUPP. 12-708 – CHANGE OF ZONING FROM R-1 (RESIDENTIAL) TO I-1 (INDUSTRIAL) FOR THE PROPERTY AT 310 N. NATIONAL AVENUE.

  1. Consideration of change in zoning from A-G (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 Jayhawk Road – Approval of Ordinance No. 3583 – Ally said that the Fort Scott Planning Commission met on May 10th and heard this case to change the zoning from Agricultural to Mixed Use. The proposed use for the property was to build a garage and allow mechanical work to be completed there. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denying this zoning change due to the fact that they want to leave their neighborhoods as a residential area. You have heard from a couple of people already about this zoning change.

Kevin informed Mr. Brackett to contact Ally and see if there is another location for his proposed mechanic garage.

R. Nichols moved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use). All voted aye.

approved to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning change from AG (Agricultural) to M-U (Mixed Use) for the property at 2127 jayhawk road.

  1. Discussion of 2021 Contract Mowing Bid Award – Ally sent an email last Friday to the City Commission asking that the mowing contract that was awarded to Justin Uhler be rescinded and offered to the next bidder which is Doug Miller. She is greatly concerned by the growing number of properties which have not been mowed. As of Friday, there were 156 properties to be mowed and only 27 had been turned in that had been mowed. She did speak to Justin Uhler who told her that the property owners had mowed some of the properties, but all of the properties have not been mowed. There are over 120 properties to be mowed. A copy of the bid tabulation as well as the bid request is included in the packet. She knows there was a lot of rain lately. She shared data of precipitation over the month of May. The City is receiving a lot of phone calls about the high grass. There is a procedure that has to be followed and the grass has to be 8” in height. The property owner is notified one time, and then the City mows the lot.

Ryan Collier said that he helps Justin Uhler with mowing. They didn’t get the list until May 7th. He said that he made a phone call to Ally about the tall grass at the City building to the east of him. He said they were dealt a bad hand to start with.

Ally said that the bid was approved long before May 7th. The first round of letters went out April 26th.

Mr. Collier also mentioned the amount of brush and trash on the properties and that they don’t have time to mow and pick up all the brush and debris on the property.

Justin said that every Monday he meets with Lyle. He said that some of these yards are taking three and four hours to mow due to the height of the grass.

Kevin stated that he thinks they deserve some time to prove themselves before the contract is moved to another bidder. He thinks they deserve another couple of weeks to prove themselves.

  1. Memorandum of Understanding – Bradley – signage – Ally informed the Commission that Zach Bradley is working to establish a new business, which is a cattle washout site. Due to the location of his property, he is requesting that the City allow him to place a business sign on City owned property located on Pratel Street near National Avenue. If approved, Mr. Bradley will sign a Memorandum of Understanding stating he is responsible for the sign.

City Attorney said that he saw this when he returned to the office on Tuesday. He said that he is not opposed to this, but allowing private use of public property could open a lot of issues. He asked the Commission to table this at this time since the business isn’t open yet. One of the issues is allowing this and what limitations you will allow and setting a precedence. He will do some research on this.

R. Nichols moved to table this item at this time. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

TABLED THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AT THIS TIME.

 

  1. Consideration and Award of Bid – Pest Control – City Manager said that bids were sent out for the consideration and award of Pest Control spraying at nine (9) City facilities. There were three bids received with the low bid from Springfield, Missouri in the amount of $475.00 monthly, Quality Pest Control of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $480.00, and Ashcraft Pest Control (local company) in the amount of $500.00 per month. Approval for the local company, Ashcraft Pest Control, is recommended as it is within the 7% range. This is a three year contract.

R. Nichols moved to approve the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approved the bid from Ashcraft Pest Control in the amount of $500.00 per month for pest control spraying at City facilities. this is a three year contract.

  1. Consideration and Award of Bid – Sanitation Service – Kevin said that bids were sent out for the pickup of sanitation at all City locations. There were three bids received with the low bid from 4 State Sanitation in the amount of $1,105.00 monthly, Short’s Trash Service of Frontenac, Kansas in the amount of $1,240.98; and GFL Environmental, Inc. of Lebanon, Missouri in the amount of $1,336.00. Approval for the local bid with 4 States Sanitation is recommended. This is a three year contract.

Cheryl Zimmerman of Short’s Trash Service thanked the Commission for allowing them to bid on this service.

P. Allen moved to approve the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. L. Watt seconded. All voted aye.

approved the low bid from 4 State Sanitation of Fort Scott in the amount of $1,105.00. This is a three year contract.

K. Allen left the meeting at 7:40 p.m.

  1. Consideration and Award of Bid – Port-A-Potty Service – R. Nichols said that bids were sent out for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. There were two bids received with Skitch’s, Inc at a cost of $390.00 and a bid from Mid-America Sanitation at a cost of $1,365.00 on a weekly basis. Approval for the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. is recommended.

L. Watts moved to approve the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

approved the bid from Skitch’s, Inc. for port-a-potty service in the City of Fort Scott. This is a three year contract.

K. Allen returned to the meeting at 7:42 p.m.

  1. Consideration to Bid Mill and Overlay Horton Street – 6th to 8th – City Manager asked the Commission if they would like to go out for bid for the mill and overlay of Horton Street between 6th and 8th Street.

Bill Lemke said that they hope to go out for bid and mill off 4” and lay 4” of asphalt down. The street has a lot of problems. Some could be old asphalt and some could be base issues. He asked to send this out for bid.

Kevin asked if the bid included the City would maintain all the millings.

Bill said yes. Some contractors may want to use a portion of those millings back into their process, but they can discuss that.

Pete said that it costs $4.65 for a yard and a half. How much will it cost for 4” of milling.

Bill said that before, when the street was worked on, only 2” was milled off.

Discussion was held on core drilling the street to see the base.

Pete said it was a simple process to dig a hole and look at the base and we can do that ourselves.

Reports and Comments:

  1. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

L. Watts – Nothing to report.

R. Nichols – Remarked that the mural under the bridge at Riverfront is remarkable.

Said at the next meeting he would like an update on Smart Growth and how it relates to economic development.

P. Allen – Said that he appreciates all that the City Commission has done recently. He stated that Bob keeps us in pocket and out of trouble. He appreciates Jeremy’s assistance. He also said that he thinks we are headed in the right direction and working hard for the people in this community.

K. Allen – Thanked Stephen Toal for the beautiful murals he has recently painted in Fort Scott.

J. Jones – Not present.

City Attorney Report and Comments: Nothing to report.

Adjournment:

R. Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:02 p.m. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:02 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, M.M.C.

City Clerk

Driver’s License/Id Card’s That Are Expired Because of Pandemic are Due June 30

Less Than a Month Left to Renew Kansas Credentials That Expired March 2020 to March 2021

TOPEKA – Kansans with a driver’s license or identification card that expired between March 12, 2020, and March 30, 2021, have until June 30 to renew those credentials. This is due to the COVID-19 extension for these credentials expiring with the passage of Senate Bill 127.

In April, the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Division of Vehicles sent out more than 55,700 postcards to Kansans who have not renewed their license or identification card and would be affected by the deadline. As of June 1, there are still 45,000 Kansans needing to renew their credentials.

“In addition to ending the COVID-19 extension for expired credentials, the legislation expanded the age range on mobile renewals,” David Harper, the Division of Vehicles director, said. “Summer is typically a busy time for our offices as teen drivers come in for the first time. Because of that, we are heavily encouraging the use of iKan, the Department’s online driver’s license renewal system.”

Mobile renewals are open to Kansans who are 21 to 64 years old, have had a vision test within the past year, and their license is up to one year before or after expiration.

The online platform is available at https://ikan.ks.gov/ or on mobile devices by downloading the iKan app from the Apple App or Google Play stores.

Walk-in customers are welcome. However, if needing to visit an office, appointments are encouraged. Customers with appointments receive priority. Information about making an appointment can be found at https://www.ksrevenue.org/DOVAppointmentInfo.

 K-39 bridge replacement

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) began a project to replace a bridge on K-39 in Bourbon County in April, with a completion date in November 2021.

The bridge replacement is funded under the T-WORKS transportation program.

The bridge spans Pawnee Creek and is located approximately 7½ miles east of the east K-3/K-39 junction.

K-39 is closed to through traffic at the bridge.

A new signed state detour route is in effect around the project.

Eastbound traffic, from the west K-39/U.S. 59 junction, will travel south on U.S. 59 to K-47, east on K-47 to U.S. 69, and north on U.S. 69 to K-39.

Westbound K-39 traffic should follow the same route in the opposite direction.

KDOT awarded the $1.4 million construction contract to B&B Bridge Company, Inc., of St. Paul.

Weather permitting, the project should be completed by November 2021.

Persons with questions may contact Iola Area Engineer Troy Howard, (620) 901-6557, or Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

 

Meet Congressman LaTurner June 10 At Empress Center

The Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
invites you to
Come meet your Congressman!
Town Hall with
Jake LaTurner in Fort Scott!
Click HERE to view event on Facebook.
Forwarding the following message from
the office of Congressman Jake LaTurner:
Thanks to the Empress Event Center for hosting this event. If you are able, we would love for you to attend.
Visit the Chamber’s website www.fortscott.com to print or view the event flyer for anyone interested in attending.
Additionally, here is the Facebook link to the event.
This will be a great opportunity to meet your Congressman and make your voices heard.
I hope to see you all soon!
Please, don’t hesitate to reach out with
any questions or comments.
Monet Straub | District Representative
Congressman Jake LaTurner (KS-02) | 785-205-5253
3550 SW 5th St.| Topeka, KS 66606

Local Governments To Receive More COVID-19 Relief

Governor Laura Kelly Announces Local Governments to Receive Federal Coronavirus Relief

Editor’s note: Fort Scott received over $1.1 million, Bronson- over $46,000, Fulton-over $23,000, Mapleton-over $12,000,Redfield-over $21,000 and Uniontown-over $40,000. Click on the link to view others.

TOPEKA – Governor Kelly today released the list of local governments that will receive allocations through the Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (LFRF) of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

In addition to the 105 Kansas counties and 10 metropolitan cities across the State receiving funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury, 614 Non-Entitlement Units of Government (NEUs) with populations of under 50,000, will receive funds directly from the State of Kansas, as directed by the U.S. Department of Treasury. The complete list of NEUs and federal award allocation amounts can be found here: https://covid.ks.gov/neu.

The American Rescue Plan (ARPA) provides $1.9 trillion in economic stimulus to assist in the long-term recovery from the economic and public health impacts related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to funding through LFRF for NEU’s, counties and metropolitan cities, the State of Kansas received direct funding through the State Fiscal Recovery Fund (SFRF).

“The American Rescue Plan Act will provide critical resources to Kansas communities as we continue our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Governor Kelly said. “We must use these dollars to make the strategic investments that will build a better, more inclusive and resilient economy for future Kansans.”

The US Department of Treasury’s eligibility requirements specify that NEU’s must have operational capacity and provide a “broad range of services that would constitute eligible uses under ARPA.”  Given this requirement, townships will not receive direct funding from the state under the LFRF. For more information on federal requirements, visit https://covid.ks.gov/neu.

“Although townships won’t receive direct allocations from the Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, I will make a recommendation to the SPARK committee that interested communities be eligible for resources from the State Fiscal Recovery Fund,” Governor Kelly said.

All NEUs receiving funding must certify with the State that they wish to receive their allocation of funds. Any NEU eligible for funding can affirmatively take a step to decline their award and reallocate to the State Fiscal Recovery Fund. Instructions for certification with the state will be sent to NEUs directly.

The Office of Recovery will provide resources and support to all local governments to ensure alignment with federal guidelines and compliance requirements. The State will encourage and coordinate collaboration across state, county, and city funding to ensure funds are maximized for the benefit of all Kansas populations.

The Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Task Force will oversee the use of SFRF dollars, while LFRF dollars will be allocated by local governments. You can learn more about the State of Kansas’ response to the pandemic through the Office of Recovery at https://covid.ks.gov.

Hwy. 54 Resurfacing Starts June 14

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U.S. 54 resurfacing project starts this month

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) expects to begin work on a U.S. 54 resurfacing project the week of June 14. The project starts at Allen-Bourbon county line and continues east through Bourbon County to end at Fort Scott.

 

Project activity includes a surface recycle and ultra-thin bonded asphalt overlay. KDOT awarded the $2.8 million construction contract to Apac-Central, Fayetteville, Ark. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone; expect delays of 15 minutes or less on days when the project is active.

 

The road work should be completed by late August, weather permitting. Persons with questions may contact Iola Area Engineer Troy Howard, (620) 901-6557, or Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433. Check KDOT’s updated traveler information website, www.Kandrive.org, for more road condition and construction details. KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a work zone.

 

Alice Maffett, Public Health Nurse, Retires June 26

 

SEK Muliti-County Health Department, located at 6th and Lowman Streets, Fort Scott.

SEK Multi-County Health Department lead nurse, Alice Maffett BSN, RN, is retiring after 20 plus years.

“I have worked in public health for over 21 years besides working as a clinical nurse in different settings such as obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology, orthopedic and psychiatric medicine,” she said.
Alice Maffett. Submitted photo.
“I have always enjoyed the aspect of public health even when I was in nursing school,” she said.  “Public health allowed me the opportunity to work with my community partners and to further good health practices in this county.”
She did this through immunization clinics, teaching health-related subjects in schools, disease investigations, and public speaking to community groups.
“The best part of working in public health was the people in our community I got to help every day,” she said.
 ” I can honestly say that the most challenging issue that I’ve had to face with my job has been the COVID outbreak,” Maffett said.  “At one point I was working seven days a week from early morning until the evening. This virus has just been relentless.  I believe it has wearied all of us.”
Maffett’s last day officially with the SEK Multi-County Health Department will be June 26.
“I will start a new chapter in my life from that point and I’m excited to see where God will lead me,” she said.
“Thank you to all the many, many community members and organizations that I have had the privilege of working with during my time in public health.  I will miss them all,” Maffett said.