The City of Fort Scott offices will be closed on Wednesday, November 11^th, 2020 in observance of Veterans Day. The regular offices will reopen on Thursday, November 12^th, 2020.

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of October 29, 2020 Special Meeting #13

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held October 29^th, 2020 at 10:30 a.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, Randy Nichols, and Lindsey Watts were present with Mayor JoLynne Mitchell presiding.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Jason Pickert, Deb McCoy, Bobbi Kemna, Janice Allen, Lynette Westhoff, and Michael Hoyt. Ty Parks with KOAM-TV, Channel 7. Jeff Deane appeared via Zoom.

I. CONSIDERATION:

1. Discussion of City’s insurance – Jeff Deane, City Attorney said that this resolution is written notice of withdrawal from KCAMP Insurance. There was verbal notice given at our October 20, 2020 meeting, but according to the bylaws, since the Commission decided to move to EMC, written notice needs to be given.

Discussion was held why this resolution was needed and why James Charlesworth wasn’t ready with this resolution.

Jeff said that Mr. Charlesworth recommendation was to remain with KCAMP and not move to EMC.

K. Allen asked if we would still be covered by KCAMP in 2021 for situations which may have been incurred in 2020?

Jeff said that as far as he knows. Anything that is open and pending is certainly covered.

Discussion was held regarding purchasing tail coverage through KCAMP so there will not be a gap in coverage.

Jeff said that he would have to check to see the cost of this tail coverage with KCAMP.

P. Allen asked if the City can expect assessments from KCAMP after the policy is terminated?

Jeff said that he does not know this answer. He will get the plan documents from Deb Needleman and have an answer for them by the next meeting. This resolution does have to be approved and signed today to withdraw from KCAMP Insurance.

L. Watts made a motion to accept Resolution No. 16-2020 to withdraw from KCAMP Insurance effective January 1^st, 2021. K. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, and L. Watts voted aye. R. Nichols and J. Mitchell voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 16-2020 TO WITHDRAW FROM KCAMP INSURANCE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1^ST, 2021.

2. Discussion of Interim City Manager position – Mayor Mitchell said that they were going to adjourn into Executive Session for this item.

Executive Session:

L. Watts moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 11:05 a.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and City Attorney.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 11:05 a.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The open meeting will resume in the Commission meeting room at City Hall at 11:37 a.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and City Attorney.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 11:38 a.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

L. Watts said that per their discussion they will be looking at different avenues to fill the Interim City Manager position at the November 3^rd, 2020 meeting. She asked the Clerk to place this on the agenda.

3. Discussion of search for new City Manager – Mayor said that there has been some different research done whether it is to accept applications from here in the community, to hiring a firm to accept applications, or hiring the League of Kansas Municipalities to search for candidates for us.

L. Watts said that she has talked to the League and feels like this is a great service that they offer.

R. Nichols said if we use this program that everyone is welcome to apply.

R. Nichols moved to use the League of Kansas Municipalities to search for a new City Manager. L. Watts seconded.

L. Watts said that one of the things she likes about this program is that the League has discussion with each Commissioner. Each Commissioner tells them what they are looking for in a candidate and then they advertise, and they bring forth candidates.

R. Nichols said that they can offer guidance to us.

P. Allen said once again they are brought a proposal that for the first time before 2/5’s of the Commission has even seen it. They have no idea what it’s about and you want us to vote on it. What is it going to cost us? He sees a quote for services for $7,765 for base price services, advertising price $1,400 to $2,000, process options up to $2,000, and participating in interview process is $1,800, and this is the first time he’s seen this paperwork. He’s not in a position to vote on this. We have a meeting coming up on Tuesday and why not let us look at this first and table this.

L. Watts said that she gathered information beforehand since she knew this meeting was going to happen. She reached out to the League first and then also talked to our H.R. department to look at our options. She feels like if we do it ourselves, it could be perceived as a bias approach in the public. We do need to start as soon as possible.

K. Allen said that he agreed with Pete and this is hard to digest. He also asked for more time to look at it. He just received this and hasn’t had time to look at it. He wants to make sure we are making a wise decision.

L. Watts said that there are outside firms that would conduct a search that are far more expensive and could amount up to $20,000 to $30,000. There are costs using the League, but not as expensive as a private firm.

P. Allen said that he doesn’t want this to be our only source. We should have other options we could look at.

K. Allen asked again what the costs were.

R. Nichols said that it is $$7,765 plus the advertisement fee of $1,400 to $2,000, an onsite facilitation including a meet and greet for $2,000 and the interview process is $1,800. We could do the meet and greet on our own.

K. Allen said that he would like to look this over more.

L. Watts said she would rescind her second to Randy Nichols motion.

R. Nichols motion died for lack of a second then.

K. Allen moved to table this discussion on the search for a new City Manager until the November 3^rd, 2020 meeting. P. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. R. Nichols voted no. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED TO TABLE THIS DISCUSSION ON THE SEARCH FOR A NEW CITY MANAGER UNTIL THE NOVEMBER 3^RD, 2020 CITY COMMISSION MEETING.

II. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT:

J. Mitchell moved to adjourn the special meeting at 11:53 a.m. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye. Motion carried.

ADJOURNED SPECIAL MEETING AT 11:53 A.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on November 3^rd, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of October 21, 2020 Special Meeting #12

A special meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held October 21^st, 2020 at 1:15 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Kevin Allen, Pete Allen, Randy Nichols, and Lindsey Watts were present with Mayor JoLynne Mitchell presiding.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Dave Bruner, Ally Turvey, Rachel Pruitt, and Michael Hoyt. Jeff Deane appeared via Zoom.

I. CONSIDERATION:

1. Consideration of a contract on a personnel matter – Dave Martin, City Manager announced that he feels like it is time for him to retire. He’s been here 10 years and seen a lot of really good things and had a lot of accomplishments and feels like there are good things coming this way. He thanked the Commission for working with him and allowing him to retire. He will stay on board and help transition through the next week. His last day will be Friday, October 30, 2020. He said it has been a privilege to work with the City Commission, staff, and employees and work hard 24/7 to move our City forward. He’s excited about being able to go home at night and spend time with his children, his wife, and grandchildren. He is looking forward to being able to focus on his family. He will miss the day to day dealings, but is leaving you in good hands with the City staff that you have. He will work as a private citizen to support the Commission. We have a great City that we can be proud of.

Mayor Mitchell said that she appreciates the 10 years he have given us. She hopes he enjoys spending time with his family.

R. Nichols moved to accept the retirement and authorize the Mayor to sign all pertinent documents. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ACCEPT THE RETIREMENT AND AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN ALL PERTINENT DOCUMENTS.

II. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT:

L. Watts moved to adjourn the special meeting at 1:43 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye. Motion carried.

ADJOURNED SPECIAL MEETING AT 1:43 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on November 3^rd, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of October 20, 2020 Regular Meeting #19

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held October 20^th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the Corey Larson Gymnasium at Buck Run Community Center, 735 S. Scott Avenue, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners P. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Mitchell presiding. K. Allen arrived at 6:02 p.m.

INVOCATION: Jerry Witt said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Russell Lingerfelt, Susan Bancroft, Nate Stansberry, Deb Needleman, Dave Bruner, Bill Michaud, David Luke, Harvey Feoke, Maura Chambers, Kirk Sharp, James Charlesworth, Harold Martin, Deb McCoy, Max Daly, Cheryl Adamson, Lynette Westhoff, Seth Needham, Michael Hoyt, Jerry Witt, Mark McCoy, Clayton Miller, Josh Jones, Janice Allen, and Max Fanning.

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of October 6^th, 2020, and special meeting of October 9^th, 2020.

2. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1273-A totaling $617,512.35.

3. Request to Pay – Lauber Municipal Law, LLC – $17,815.00

4. Parade Permit Form – 3^rd Annual Veteran’s Day Parade – November 14^th, 2020

5. Request to Pay – SAM, LLC – Utility GPS/GIS Project – $10,000.00

6. Request to Pay – HDR, Engineering – River Intake Project – $2,090.00

7. Request to Pay – Olsson Associates – Airport Runway Expansion Engineering – $18,040.00

8. September financials

Pete asked that page 13 of the October 6^th, 2020 minutes be changed in the last paragraph where it states that Randy Nichols stated that everyone was for the 1% sales tax. He had not had a chance to vote on it.

Pete asked that on page 20 of the October 6^th, 2020 minutes be changed under the Director Report for Nate Stansberry when he commented that the alley behind the Union Lofts building would be concreted. Pete asked when that was approved, how it was approved, who is going to do the work, the scope of work, the drawings, and our cost.

L. Watts said that it was a project approved by the previous Commission.

Pete said he would like to see that documentation. Why was it never brought up until the last meeting? Where did it come from?

Susan Bancroft said that midway through the summer the City received a phone call from Evergy and apparently Rhonda Dunn made arrangements with the developers and with Evergy and once we got to the point where the alley needed addressed, that they would take the overhead lines and the City would bury them underground. Part of that agreement was that the alley would be concrete or asphalt. Chad Brown felt that the concrete would be better and hold up better. Evergy is ready to go and we are committed to this project at this time. This will benefit the Union Lofts project as well as the LaRoche project.

Pete said that he would like to know if there was an agreement made.

Susan said that there are emails between Evergy and Rhonda Dunn.

City Manager said that it was a commitment made by Staff. You could vote and decide not to do it.

Pete said that we need to learn to go through the proper channels.

K. Allen said that if a deal has been made with Evergy or someone else, it should be in writing.

Pete said on that same page, a statement was made by Nate stating that Cooper Street could not be accomplished this year due to Staff. Was that a Staff decision? A City Commission decision? He wasn’t consulted that it wouldn’t be accomplished this year. We have Staff making the decision that we aren’t going to do it now.

L. Watts moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the recommended changes to the minutes of the October 6^th, 2020 meeting regarding the comments on page 13. R. Nichols seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen and P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA WITH RECOMMENDED CHANGES TO THE OCTOBER 6^TH, 2020 MINUTES REGARDING THE COMMENTS ON PAGE 13.

Public Comment:

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

Harold Martin – Mr. Martin said he was here tonight to talk about wave boats and Lake Fort Scott. In the last few years, the amount of powerboats on the lake has changed dramatically. The activity has changed from tubing, skiing, pleasure boating, and fishing to increased personal watercraft activity and wave surfing. Both activities, wave surfing and watercraft activities create large waves which are damaging the shorelines, docks, more boats and more watercraft. His personal preference would be to prohibit this activity because managing it in an effective manner is nearly impossible. He reviewed some documents provided by John Eaten that provide data from research conducted by waves generated by wave surfing watercraft. One study concluded that height of generated waves were reduced by half at a distance of 200 feet. However, the other research states it will take 300 feet to reduce it by half. There are a bunch of different pieces of data and Mr. Eaten would provide that to the board. One of the comments in this document is that it would reduce the wave to no more than 10 miles per hour in a one mile fetch. That’s one mile open water. We all know that everyone lives on the east or west side and we know that the wind runs north and south and the lake is only ½ mile wide. We aren’t going to get that kind of wave action against our docks, but yet we’re getting considerably more than that from wave surfing boats and from these wave runners. An additional concern with these boats, because of their design and construction, is zebra mussels. These boats have pumps in them. They pump their bilges full of water in order to put that boat deeper into the water to create a larger wave to surf off of. If this boat is put into a lake somewhere else and that bilge is not clean and disinfected with bleach, the potential to bring zebra mussels to our lake is extremely high. If you’ve noticed in the past month, a report came out that said that Paola’s lake has zebra mussels, and two lakes right up 69 Highway, not to mention out of state lakes. There’s two or three in Missouri that have zebra mussels. This is a great concern. It doesn’t only impact the lake, but this is the City’s water supply. We need to consider that as well. There are lake residents that have had their docks damaged, their boats damaged, their shorelines damaged, and the owners could be forced to watch the front of their property fall into the lake, or be forced to leave because they can’t afford to fix it. He understands that he is not the only user of this resource, but he is probably not even in the majority of those wanting to throw all those boats off the lake, but we have to do something. He would suggest that the government because they are approving the activity that is causing this damage, should stand the cost of repair in the form of a tax rebate to the property owners who are having to repair the front of their property. Additionally, as a measure to help slow the erosion problem and comply with the Kansas Boating Safety Regulations, he proposed that the 2020-2021 and all future publications of the Kansas Boating Regulations be formally adopted into the Fort Scott Code of Ordinances Chapter 12.28, Lake Fort Scott. These regulations do govern boating activities on the lake without formal adoption because we are in the state. He believes by formally embracing these regulations with an active confirmation and enforcement campaign, the government officials can demonstrate their dedication to the community and the people who elected them. He also urged this body to take immediate action to correct the oversight in the placement of no wake buoys. Currently, the buoys on the east side of the lake form a line 200 feet from the docks. The buoys on the west side form a line 60 feet from the docks. The Kansas Boating Regulations state that “negligent operation includes operating above wake speed within 200 feet of a boat ramp, boat dock, boat storage, swimming beach, or within an area marked with “no wake” buoys”. The complete regulations can be found on page 13 and the State Statute is 32.1125. He has three copies of this book. He had one for the City Commission, one for Tom Graham, and himself. He has a photograph that is taken out of a book that he has that shows the public dock at Lake Fort Scott in 1975. This was 10 years after he acquired the piece of property that he has now. If you look at the right-hand corner of the picture you can see the front of his property. That property has been washed away by over 75 feet of frontage. This is not a new problem but a problem we need to address.

K. Allen asked if he was going to propose these issues to the Lake Advisory Committee.

Mr. Martin said that he has proposed it to them more than once and was ignored. He has proposed some of the ideas to the Lake Committee and was told he was in the minority in wanting to eliminate that activity on the lake, because trying to manage it is nearly impossible. He said he knows they want to keep it as recreation, but if we allow the lake to be damaged and silt in, you will lose your water supply as well as recreation.

K. Allen said that the wave boats are very popular right now. If the people are abusing the regulations, they should be notified.

L. Watts asked the City Clerk to get copies to them of the Kansas Boating Regulations handbook he handed out.

Mr. Martin said that we need a very active education program and enforcement program. As an example, there’s a 26’ to 28’ boat on the lake all summer with no KSA numbers on it, no lake seal, full of water, pulling waves. He lives at the lake all summer. It’s not that he’s not aware.

K. Allen said that we have a 24’ boat restriction.

Mr. Martin said that Jim Busone said that the City cannot do that.

Susan said that we have an ordinance for this.

Michael Hoyt – Mr. Hoyt said that he had a few comments. He wanted to address Kevin Allen who assigned him a task to look at the attorney bills for June and July and how they differ from their original format. He expanded his scope to look at each bill we have received and has color coded those. He asked for an extension of one meeting and he will have him his information.

He asked from Susan about Charter Ordinance No. 31, and how he can keep from having to submit a KORA request every month, not to see transfers from those funds until this is placed on the ballot.

Susan said it is in her financial statements every month and they are online on the City’s website.

Mr. Hoyt encouraged the Commission to watch the Planning and Zoning Board’s meeting last night. It was the perfect example of the workings of an advisory board meeting. They took comments from the people presenting and took comments from the public. This is a fully staffed board and this meeting went very well. He encouraged the Commission to please staff their boards. The Advisory Board for the Airport is still not staffed. He asked why the public hearing was held and the Airport Advisory Board was not present.

City Manager said that it was an F.A.A. meeting.

Mr. Hoyt said that the City paid $450,000 for a study at the airport. There’s not one person in town that can sight it. Who is going to protect the City on the contents of that document. I think it should be the Advisory Board of the Airport. He submitted his name nearly a year ago. Mr. Deane acknowledged his resume was on file. He spent 62 ½ years in the English language and if you give him something to read, he can understand it. You don’t have time to read those.

K. Allen asked how many members were on the Airport Advisory Board.

City Clerk said that there were five. There were two that have resigned. Letters of interest were taken but only one letter of interest received. She said she will advertise again.

P. Allen moved to approve Michael Hoyt to the Airport Advisory Board. K. Allen seconded.

City Clerk said she would advertise again.

Mr. Hoyt said that it would need advertised again.

City Clerk said that any other boards that have openings have been published.

Mark McCoy – Mr. McCoy said that he was here representing the Bourbon County Republican Party. They will be conducting a Trump parade this Sunday. It will begin at 1:00 p.m. at the north section of town. It will start at the Riverfront Park at 1:00 p.m. The lineup will be at Twister Trailer and Fort Scott Livestock. It will proceed south on National to 23^rd Street, turning West to Horton Street, then North to 6^th Street, then East to National, and then to Wall Street. They will follow all rules and regulations and speed limits and stop signs. They have been encouraged to be kind to spectators. Debra Martin has spoke with the Chief of Police and Fire Chief and they are both in agreeance with the parade. Pittsburg recently had a Trump parade and some local individuals wanted to have one here.

Seth Needham – Mr. Needham said that he was here two months ago on August 18^th to talk about the ground covering and other safety issues at the Parks. He was told they were taken care of. It is still 8” below the recommended safety requirement. The Commission told him they were going to take care of it. I looked at the agenda after that meeting and saw that the golf course got 17 tons of sand. The Commission said they were going to take care of this, but they got sand for bunker shots. It turns out that they got sand four times this year. The Commission also just approved 51 tons of sand for putting greens at a cost of $1,506.00. In a year we spent $3,983 on sand, when there has been a problem with the ground covering at the park for four years. This is in the swing set area. They can put in dirt, mulch, or gravel. As a parent what he hears is that the perfect bunker shot is more important than his kid’s safety. The golf course has a new Stihl blower and he’s assuming that is for after he mows. Grass clippings on golf shoes are more important than my kid’s safety. When is something going to be done?

Mayor Mitchell said she thought it had been taken care of.

K. Allen said that you have seen us give Dave (Martin) direction. We are not to micromanage. We hire a City Manager and he hires the department heads and employees. If we micromanager, we are told not to. He has volunteered hours upon hours at the park. The County has brought in rock. He can’t go past what he is doing now and asking the City Manager that it be taken care of. It’s at Shelter #3 with a 2’ drop from concrete down to the roots.

L. Watts said she apologizes that it hasn’t been taken care of. She thought it had been and we will move forward.

K. Allen said we are making excuses. He asked the City Manager why it hadn’t been done.

City Manager said that he was told it was fixed and safety checks had been done.

Seth said that the electrical at the shelter house on top of the hill was still exposed. It probably isn’t very safe. He was told the bathroom was fixed at 3^rd Street park and there is a lock on the door. His idea of fixing it is not putting a lock on it.

City Manager said that there is a water issue there.

K. Allen said that he has asked for two signs at City Hall to be straightened and that hasn’t been done. He gives direction to the City Manager and asked him to please see that these items get fixed for the safety of Fort Scott.

City Manager said yes he would.

Dave Bruner, Fire Chief, said that he was at the park and saw a couple of issues with outlet covers that need replaced and the conduit that needs replaced. He will take care of that. He didn’t look for any other safety issues.

K. Allen said that the City will be liable at some time in the future if these items don’t get addressed.

Josh Jones said that the County will bring rock out tomorrow to the park.

City Manager said that the City will spread it where needed.

Old Business:

1. One hour parking in 100 block Main Street – Travis Shelton, Chief of Police, informed the Commission that the City does have an ordinance in place for one hour parking. It is for Wall Street to Skubitz Plaza. There is two-hour parking from 3^rd Street to Wall Street. About 20 years ago, the signs were removed. We used to have a parking enforcement officer and that position was eliminated and the signs were removed. We can add signs again in the downtown area and if someone calls, the police officer can write a ticket, and that reporting person would have to come to court. His recommendation would be for two-hour parking from 3^rd to Skubitz Plaza.

Bill Michaud said he was fine with the two-hour parking limit.

Susan Bancroft said that the ordinance will need to be changed to reflect two hour parking from 3^rd Street to Skubitz Plaza.

Nichols moved to change the ordinance to extend the two hour parking area from 3^rd Street to Skubitz Plaza and leave it to the discretion of the businessowners in that area if there are issues to contact the Police Department. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

Approved to change the ordinance to extend the two hour parking area from 3^rd Street to Skubitz Plaza and leave it to the discretion of the businessowners in that area if there are issues to contact the Police Department. THIS ORDINANCE WILL COME BACK BEFORE THE COMMISSION FOR FINAL APPROVAL AT THE NOVEMBER 3^RD, 2020 MEETING.

2. Consideration of update to Vicious/Dangerous Dog Ordinance with removal of Pit Bull ban – Travis Shelton, Chief of Police, informed the Commission that he and Max worked together on this ordinance and removed the section of the ordinance regarding the breed of Pit Bull. He formed this ordinance after the City of Iola’s in regard to the Dangerous Dog section. Travis said that he spoke with Dr. Nichols on this ordinance and he had a few suggestions to it.

Discussion was held regarding a few changes they wanted.

Travis will get this ordinance finalized and bring it back before them at the November 3^rd, 2020 meeting.

3. Approval of the City’s liability casualty insurance renewal – James Charlesworth, Charlesworth Consulting, informed the Commission that he did receive the three quotes he anticipated for the City’s insurance. They were from KCAMP, Midwest Public Risk (MPR) and EMC. MPR is an associated trust like KCAMP but it is not cost competitive. Their quote came in at $317,337.00. They are just not cost prohibitive. In his summary report, he notes that both are outstanding companies. EMC is represented through a local agent, Billard Hammer, Hartman. They have a dividend program. We would be required to move to a April 1^st inception date instead of the January 1^st date that we currently have. He shared all the details of both companies. EMC quote is $263,992 which includes a $2 million umbrella option and a one time prior acts premium of $2,458 for the law enforcement liability. KCAMP is the lowest quote at $227,438. It is an excellent program and has offered stability to the City over the past three years the City has been insured with them. He shared different services between the two companies. His recommendation was to accept the KCAMP proposal. Both representatives are here tonight to address the Commission.

Discussion was held regarding the difference between the two companies.

James said one of the biggest differences is the flood coverage with EMC. There is coverage with KCAMP. Another big difference is the law enforcement liability from KCAMP versus EMC. Another issue is with the dams at the lakes. The difference in the two quotes is $36,554.00 or 16%.

Lynette Westhoff, Billard, Hammer, Hartman, informed the Commission that her company quoted the EMC firm. She asked them to look at the dividend payout sheet in the handout. The dividends have averages from 17% to 19%. She said that the dam at Lake Fort Scott is a concern with EMC. They offer training programs through EMC. She said that they are local and only a phone call away from servicing the City.

Susan mentioned many of the programs that KCAMP offers to the City such as Human Resource, Police, and legal resources.

Lynette said that they offer many of those same programs also.

David Luke, Executive Director, KCAMP, informed the Commission that they value the relationship they have with the City of Fort Scott and hope to continue it. He said that pools started back in the late 1970’s and have become popular with low stable rates offered to companies. He asked Maura Chambers to address some of the services that KCAMP offers.

Maura Chambers said that the law enforcement policies are one of the most popular services they offer. The Fort Scott Police Department has used 51 of their policies. These policies can be downloaded and used in various police departments. The FSPD has completed 160 of their courses they offer also. They offer a HR Assist program which is included in their premium. They have a Think HR program available also. They offer many safety training programs.

R. Nichols moved to continue with KCAMP for the City’s insurance. His motion died for lack of a second.

P. Allen moved to move the City’s insurance to EMC with Billard Hammer Hartman. K. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen and L. Watts voted aye. R. Nichols and J. Mitchell voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED TO MOVE THE CITY’S INSURANCE TO EMC WITH BILLARD HAMMER HARTMAN.

P. Allen moved to approve a Resolution to Withdraw from KCAMP Pool Insurance effective January 1^st, 2021. K. Allen seconded. K. Allen, P. Allen and L. Watts voted aye. R. Nichols and J. Mitchell voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED A RESOLUTION TO WITHDRAW FROM KCAMP POOL INSURANCE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1^ST, 2021.

Appearances:

Jerry Witt, Riverfront Authority – Resolution of Support – Letter of Support – Public Hearing – Transportation Alternatives Grant Project – Jerry Witt, Chairperson, Riverfront Authority, informed the Commission that he was here tonight to request permission to apply for a grant for the addition of a walking bridge that would connect the south to the north over the Marmaton River.

Discussion was held if this public hearing could take place since it was advertised to be held at City Hall in the Commission meeting room.

City Attorney said that since this is a separate entity from the City and is not requesting any City funds, it should be fine to be held.

Jerry said in 2017 approval was given for the historical bridge to be moved from Fulton to Riverfront Park. This is the next step in improvements to Riverfront Park. This walking trail bridge would connect the walking trail to the South Loop Road. In 2017, the grant was awarded from K.D.O.T. in the amount of $749,000. The actual bids of moving that bridge came in far higher and the grant was declined. They went back and decided to look at a different option. The amount of this grant would be $621,000. Riverfront will supply 20% of that grant which is around $124,000. There are no City funds involved or any tax money. These funds will all be raised by Riverfront and used for those purposes. The grant has a deadline of November 6^th, 2020. He asked for a Resolution of Support from the City to apply for this grant.

K. Allen made a motion to submit a Letter of Support from the Commission for the grant submission for a walking bridge at Riverfront Park. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO SUBMIT A LETTER OF SUPPORT FROM THE CITY COMMISSION FOR THE GRANT SUBMISSION FOR A WALKING BRIDGE AT RIVERFRONT PARK.

Kirk Sharp – Gordon Parks History Trail Project – Mr. Sharp appeared before the Commission on behalf of the Gordon Parks Center. He is here to discuss the Learning Tree Film which was made in Fort Scott in 1968. Gordon Parks became the first black film producer to make a major motion picture in Hollywood called The Learning Tree. There were a lot of memories made here from locals that were in the film. They have identified 12 different locations where the film was shot in Fort Scott. They would like to install signs with a QR code. This will assist with tourism, create awareness, education, and enrich our history. He asked for support from the City and approval to use the City easement for signage. He shared photos of what the signs would look like. He believes this will bring in more tourism into the City. He has talked to all the property owners where signage would be placed and they are all in agreement. He is working closely with the Fort and with Allyson Turvey, Tourism Manager. They have received a grant from the Fort Scott Community Area Foundation for this project. They hope to have it completed by June 2021 before the All School Reunion is held in Fort Scott.

K. Allen moved to submit a Letter of Support from the City for the Gordon Parks History Trail Project. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO SUBMIT A LETTER OF SUPPORT FROM THE CITY FOR THE GORDON PARKS HISTORY TRAIL PROJECT.

R. Nichols moved to approve for the City easement to be used at these locations for the signage. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED FOR THE CITY EASEMENTS TO BE USED AT THESE LOCATIONS FOR THE SIGNAGE.

New Business:

1. Benches at Pickleball Court – City Manager said that the E-3 Foundation (Dave & Adam LaRoche) have asked to purchase benches for the pickleball courts on Burke Street. He asked for permission for these to be purchased and placed there.

K. Allen moved to allow the E-3 Foundation to purchase benches for the pickleball courts on Burke Street. L. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOW THE E-3 FOUNDATION TO PURCHASE BENCHES FOR THE PICKLEBALL COURTS ON BURKE STREET.

2. Consideration of Bids – Sanitary Sewer Cleaning and Video Inspection Bids – Nate Stansberry, City Engineer, informed the Commission that bids were taken for the sanitary sewer cleaning and video inspection of the City lines. There were 6 bids received with the low bid from Pipe Detectives, Inc. of Jamestown, North Dakota in the amount of $78,215.00. He and Michael Mix have talked to the company and feel they can complete the job. This is a budgeted item. He asked for approval of this bid.

Discussion was held regarding areas this would be used and if there were available maps.

Nate will get Pete a map of the proposed areas to be inspected.

R. Nichols moved to approve the low bid from Pipe Detectives, Inc. of Jamestown, North Dakota in the amount of $78,215.00 for the sanitary sewer cleaning and video inspection of the City lines. P. Allen seconded. P. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen abstained. Motion carried 4-1.

approved the low bid from Pipe Detectives, Inc. of Jamestown, North Dakota in the amount of $78,215.00 for the sanitary sewer cleaning and video inspection of the City lines.

K. Allen left the meeting room at 8:53 p.m.

3. Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation Invoice – Port-A-Potties – $2,461.50 – R. Nichols asked if this invoice could be tabled for two weeks. He would like to see the locations of these port-a-potties and dates and times of service. His invoices does not refer to any dates or times or locations.

Susan said that there is a bid for this service and she can get that information for them.

R. Nichols moved to table this invoice for two weeks until more information can be received. L. Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-1.

APPROVED TO TABLE THIS INVOICE FOR TWO WEEKS UNTIL MORE INFORMATION CAN BE RECEIVED.

Kevin Allen returned to the meeting at 8:57 p.m.

Reports and Comment:

1. Director Reports:

Susan Bancroft – Financial Discussion – Susan gave the Commission an update on the 2020 and 2021 budget changes. She said she emailed them information before the meeting. Based on discussions from the previous meeting, where 90% was approved to be allocated if the 1% Countywide Sales Tax passes, changes were needed to be made. In addition, the petition to take Charter No. 31 to a vote of the people requires changes in the budget for 2020 and potentially 2021. In the event the sales tax fails, further cuts will be required. Quality of life venues and public safety budgets will be at high risk for deeper cuts.

Changes at a glance:

Nine funds are affected.

Reduced General Fund Expenditures by 4%.

Reduced General Fund Transfer to Capital Outlay by $46,000.

Increased transfer from General Fund to Special Streets and Highway Fund

Increased transfer from Water Utility to General Fund.

Eliminated Transfers from the Wastewater Utility and Stormwater Utility to the General Fund

Reallocated Transfers between Water, Wastewater & Stormwater Utility Funds to Reserve Funds.

Added one (1) additional staff to Stormwater Utility Fund for Public Works.

Added two (2) additional staff to Special Streets & Highway Fund for Public Works.

Other concerns to reflect on:

General Fund Cash Reserves will drop.

General Fund calculations are based on revenues remaining flat.

General Fund future cuts will require looking at staffing.

General Fund match for grant opportunities reduced.

General Fund transfer to capital equipment & improvements reduced.

Special Streets & Highways still need about $80,000 to bring cash reserves up to three months operating.

Sick & Vacation accruals are currently an unfunded liability in the event an individual leaves or there is a reduction in force.

She asked the Commission to consider having a work session after the November 3^rd, 2020 election so we will know the outcome of the sales tax election.

Nate Stansberry – Codes Update – Alley Progress – Nate gave an update on several items.

Lake Fort Scott Valve: Nate said that the lake valve is not leaking right now or if it is it is very meniscal in nature. He commended City Staff in doing an extraordinary job on looking at solutions. The lake valve is secure for the time being. It should hold through the winter season. The City is looking at the next step. The City has contacted AG Engineering to look at a new valve. The existing valve has been taken apart and will try to be refabricated. He thanked Bo Casper and his crew for their assistance in diving and repairing the valve also.

Codes Update: Nate said that 11 building permits have been issued, 32 letters have been sent, and 24 citations have been issued.

Alley Progress: Nate said that Evergy has their contractor on site. The City will go in after they are complete. He discussed costs of asphalt versus concrete. He got these numbers from Chad: 320’ at 18’ wide – Concrete – 107 cubic yards at $97.00 a year which amounts to about $10,000 plus the steel for rebar totaling $12,000. Asphalt costs would be about 212 tons of asphalt hot mix for 6” thick at $80.00 a ton totaling $17,000. His professional opinion is to go with the concrete instead of the asphalt. It will give us a better surface.

Discussion was held regarding the price of concrete versus asphalt and life span of each product.

2. Commissioner Reports and Comments:

K. Allen – Appreciated the City’s workers on the lake valve leak.

P. Allen – Nothing to report.

R. Nichols – Nothing to report.

L. Watts – Excited to see the dog ordinance come forward to get passed.

J. Mitchell – Nothing to report.

City Attorney Report and Comments: Requested an executive session.

City Manager Report and Comments: Nothing to report.

Executive Session:

L. Watts moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing litigation, claims, and other legal matters, pursuant to the attorney-client privilege exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). The open meeting will resume in the Corey Larson gymnasium at Buck Run Community Center at 9:46 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and City Attorney.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 9:46 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

Executive Session:

L. Watts moved that the City Commission recess into another Executive Session for the purpose of discussing litigation, claims, and other legal matters, pursuant to the attorney-client privilege exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). The open meeting will resume in the Corey Larson gymnasium at Buck Run Community Center at 10:02 p.m. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye. This included the City Commission and City Attorney.

L. Watts moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 10:02 p.m. J. Mitchell seconded. All voted aye.

Adjournment:

L. Watts moved to adjourn the meeting at 10:04 p.m. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 10:04 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Diane K. Clay, MMC

City Clerk