The Airport Advisory Board will meet on Wednesday, April 24th, 2019 at 12:00 p.m. at the City Commission meeting room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. This meeting is open to the public.
Category Archives: Government
K-39 resurfacing project starts week of April 22
The week of April 22 the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to start a mill and overlay project on K-39 in Neosho and Bourbon counties. The road work starts at the east K-39/U.S. 59 junction and continues east for 19 miles to the K-39/K-7 junction. Project activity consists of a 1-inch mill, 1½-inch asphalt overlay and placement of a rock edge wedge.
Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone. Expect daytime delays of 15 minutes or less. The work should be completed by late June, weather permitting. KDOT awarded the construction contract of $1.2 million to Bettis Asphalt and Construction, Inc., of Topeka, Kan.
Troy Howard, KDOT construction engineer at the Garnett office, reminds drivers to use extra caution and ‘Give ‘Em a Brake’ at the work zone. Persons with questions may contact Howard at (785) 448-5446 or Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen at (620) 902-6433.
Town Hall Meeting: Uniting Fort Scott and Bourbon County
Mark McCoy will be speaking at the next town hall meeting at 7 p.m. April 23 at 102 S. National, upstairs.
His topic will be on the unification of the City of Fort Scott and Bourbon County, according to Denise Duncan.
New Assistant Secretary for Kansas Wildlife Department
Miller Appointed KDWPT Assistant Secretary
TOPEKA – Mike Miller has been selected to be Assistant Secretary for Wildlife, Fisheries and Boating for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). He replaces Keith Sexson, who retired last December after more than 50 years with the department. Miller will assume his new duties on Monday, April 22, 2019.
“Mike has been an invaluable member of our team for more than three decades. He has been involved in almost every aspect of the department and has a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to his new role,” said Brad Loveless, KDWPT Secretary. “He is a great communicator and is well-respected by all who know him. I am looking forward to working closely with him as we grow our programs and serve our constituents.”
“I am humbled and excited to be a part of Secretary Loveless’ vision for KDWPT’s future,” Miller said. “Current Wildlife, Fisheries and Boating staff are as talented and dedicated as any I’ve seen, and I look forward to working with them to carry on the amazing legacies of previous assistant secretaries.”
Miller has worked for KDWPT for more than 35 years. He grew up in Greensburg and graduated from Kansas State University with bachelor’s degrees in Journalism and Graphic Design in 1982. After a short stint with the El Dorado Times newspaper, he was selected to be the wildlife illustrator for the Kansas Fish and Game Commission and Kansas Wildlife magazine.
He went on to serve as the magazine’s associate editor, editor, and his current position of chief of the Information Production Section, overseeing production of the magazine, all hunting and fishing regulation pamphlets, atlases and brochures and social media presence. In addition to his information duties, Miller also served as a special assistant to the Assistant Secretary, managing various special programs and committees, including Pass It On, a hunter recruitment and retention program.
Miller is an avid angler and hunter. He and his wife of 37 years, Lisa, make their home in Pratt where he will continue to work in the KDWPT Pratt Operations Office.
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Ron Kaufman
Director of Information Services
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism
1020 S. Kansas Ave., 2nd Fl
Topeka, KS 66612
785-296-2870
Note my new email address – [email protected]
KDOT requesting comments on STIP amendment
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2019-2022 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) document.
The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System. The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp
The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes May 1. To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Bureau of Program and Project Management at (785) 296-2252.
This information is available in alternative accessible formats. To obtain an alternative format, contact the KDOT Office of Public Affairs, (785) 296-3585 (Voice/Hearing Impaired-711).
Creative Art Industries Webinar April 18
Webinar Highlights KCAIC Events and Grant Opportunities
Topeka, Kan. – The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) will conduct a webinar hosted by the Kansas PRIDE program on April 18 from 12 – 1 p.m. Peter Jasso will give an overview of current grant categories, partnership programs, and upcoming events as well as answer questions from participants.
The webinar will also be recorded for those who cannot attend at the initial time.
To join the Zoom Meeting
https://ksu.zoom.us/j/803629794
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)
+1 646 876 9923 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 803 629 794
About Kansas PRIDE program
The Kansas PRIDE program is a volunteer, grassroots effort to improve the quality of life in local communities. Each Kansas community is unique and shares a common bond: a rich heritage based on self-reliance and community pride. Since 1970, the Kansas PRIDE program has assisted and encouraged communities to prepare for the future by building on their past and forming a vision of the future. The goal of PRIDE is to help maximize community and economic development efforts by encouraging all groups to coordinate and work collaboratively for community betterment.
For more info: https://kansasprideprogram.k-state.edu/
Uniontown Community Announcements
Uniontown Community Announcements from its websitehttp://www.cityofuniontown.net/index.html
City Hall will be closed April 18.
REMINDER: PLEASE ONLY PUT TREE BRANCHES, BRUSH, LEAVES, GRASS AND YARD WASTE AT THE BURN PILE. ALL OTHER ITEMS ARE FORBIDDEN. WHEN BURNING THE PILE ON APRIL 4, SOMETHING EXPLODED AND SENT GLASS FRAGMENTS FLYING. WE ARE ALL VERY LUCKY THAT OUR MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL WERE NOT INJURED.
FIRST MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 2019 REVIVAL – SUNDAY, APRIL 14, THROUGH WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, 7PM, PASTOR MURRAY SATTERFIELD
CITATIONS WILL BE ISSUED IN APRIL FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER YOUR CAT/DOG. IF YOU DO NOT REGISTER UNTIL AFTER A CITATION IS RECEIVED YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY COURT COST, REGISTRATION FEE FOR EACH ANIMAL, AND LATE FEE FOR EACH ANIMAL.
THE 2019 SPRING CITYWIDE CLEANUP HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR MAY 3, 4, & 5. THERE WILL BE 3 DUMPSTERS ON THE RAILROAD RIGHT OF WAY AT FIRST AND CLAY STREETS. CLEAN OUT THE GARAGE, ATTIC, AND CLOSETS!
THE COUNCIL ADOPTED A NEW ORDINANCE REGARDING THE SELL OF CEREAL MALT BEVERAGES AND BEER NOT TO EXCEED 6% ALCOHOL BY VOLUME. IT WILL BE PLACED ON THE FEATURES PAGE AFTER IT HAS BEEN PUBLISHED IN THE FORT SCOTT TRIBUNE.
2019 is an election year for local governments and school boards. There are three city council positions and four school board positions for election this year. If interested in running for any of these positions contact City Hall or USD 235 Board Clerk. Filing deadline is noon June 3, 2019.
Beginning July 1, 2019, we will be able to accept debit/credit cards for payments of utilities, court fines/fees, and miscellaneous fees, licenses and permits. Payments may be made online at govpaynow.com (pay location code a001te for utilities, code a001ud for court fines/fees, and code a001td for misc permits/license fees), by phone, or in person at City Hall. A link on this page is coming soon. Call or stop by City Hall for more information.
We have received complaints of coyotes running in town. We have contacted Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to find out how to get rid of them. They suggested that they are probably young coyotes and are looking for food. Please do not feed your pets outside and put your garbage in a covered container. If they can’t find food they will go elsewhere.
There has been some inquiry about “pit bull” dogs in town. The City still has an ordinance banning “pit bull” breeds and mixes. We would also like to remind citizens that each household is only allowed three dogs and three cats six months of age or older.
The Council would like to ask owners of golf carts to make sure there is an adult in the golf cart when being driven by minors under the age of 16. Thank you for your cooperation.
We would like to remind owners of go-karts to not drive them on city streets as they can’t be seen by drivers of other vehicles.
Long Term KDOT Employees Acknowledged
The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state years-of-service anniversaries in May. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.
Those celebrating 40 years:
- Charles Baker, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Hepler
- Thomas Weishapl, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Oberlin
Those celebrating 30 years:
- Deallon Wildeman, Right of Way Property Appraiser Supervisor, Topeka
Those celebrating 20 years:
- Matthew Bleier, Engineering Technician Specialist, Topeka
- James Fetters, Equipment Operator Senior, Council Grove
- Martin Harrington, Highway Maintenance Supervisor, Norton
- Jonathan Houpt Equipment Operator, Olathe
- David Rush, Equipment Operator Specialist, Ottawa
- Steven Schmidt, Equipment Mechanic Senior, Salina
Hiring A Limo or Party Bus?
KCC offers tips on what to look for when hiring a limo or bus service
TOPEKA – Limousines and party buses are popular modes of transportation for proms, weddings and other special events. If your spring or summer plans call for limo or bus transportation, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) encourages you to do a little research before booking.
The KCC, the agency that regulates motor carriers in the state, recommends that you check to be sure the transportation company you are considering has operating authority. That means they meet the applicable federal and state requirements for safety, insurance, operations and driver training. Services operating within the state are also required to file their current tariffs or rates with the KCC. Those can be found on the KCC’s website.
“Planning your next limousine, party bus or charter bus trip is an important decision. Take a moment to ensure the company you select has the appropriate State and/or Federal operating authority and a safe operating history. Looking before you book will help you have a safe and satisfying experience,” said Mike Hoeme, KCC Transportation Director.
There are several places to obtain more information about passenger carriers. Here are a few helpful links:
Find rates – http://kcc.ks.gov/transportation/transportation-quick-links/passenger-tariffs
Check safety record – https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/ (see company snapshot)
Verify Insurance coverage –
https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov/LIVIEW/pkg_carrquery.prc_carrlist
Passenger carrier and bus safety information –
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/passenger-safety/passenger-carrier-and-bus-safety
Unclaimed Property
Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner’s Tax Day Event Returns Over $370,000
Topeka—Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner made tax day a little brighter for thousands of Kansans by helping put money back in their pockets. With the help of several broadcast media outlets, the State Treasurer’s Office held an event Monday to bring awareness to the over $350-million in unclaimed property in the State Treasury and encouraging Kansans to get online and see if any of it belongs to them. Over 27,000 people went to kansascash.com to search, and $372,146 was returned to its rightful owners.
“It’s wonderful that we were able to match up so many individuals and businesses with their unclaimed property,” said LaTurner. “This was a very successful event, but there’s still more money to give back. We hope those that found money online will spread the word to family and friends about how quick and easy it is to search for themselves as well.”
Searches for unclaimed property can be done anytime on kansascash.com. Most claims made online can be paid easily via direct deposit. In 2018 a record $26.5-million in unclaimed property was returned to Kansans, and the office is on track to break that record in 2019.
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Kansas Commercial Hemp
Governor signs bill establishing the Commercial Industrial Hemp Program
Requires a plan to monitor and regulate hemp in Kansas
To further support Kansas’ agricultural economy and provide farmers with an option for diversification, Governor Laura Kelly signed the Senate Substitute for House Bill 2167 today, establishing the Commercial Industrial Hemp Program.
“The Commercial Industrial Hemp Program represents a significant step forward for our agricultural economy. It will provide another crop option for Kansas farmers in the coming years,” Governor Kelly said. “I’m proud that Kansas is moving forward with this program and I look forward to working with the Kansas Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Agriculture and others to encourage growth in this new industry.”
Senate Substitute for House Bill 2167 requires the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA), in consultation with the governor and attorney general, to submit a plan to the United States Department of Agriculture outlining how the state will monitor and regulate the commercial production of industrial hemp in Kansas, in accordance with federal law. The commercial growing program will replace the existing research program once it is finalized and approved by USDA.
“This is the first step toward Kansas developing a plan to allow for commercial hemp production, introducing an option for diversification for Kansas farmers,” Secretary Mike Beam said. “We support new and innovative opportunities for agriculture growth, and this legislation allows Kansas to seek approval from USDA for advancing industrial hemp in Kansas.”
This year is the first year that industrial hemp can be grown in Kansas, and at this time it is only allowed within research programs as allowed by the 2014 Farm Bill. The opportunity to expand cultivation of industrial hemp for commercial use was made possible as part of the 2018 Farm Bill. Signing the bill today allows Kansas to begin development of the regulations for commercial use of industrial hemp.
“In recent years, Kansas farmers have faced significant challenges – including weather and trade tensions,” Kelly said. “I’m committed to doing all I can to support them and provide opportunities for diversification. This program provides another tool in the toolbox for Kansas farmers.”
Additionally, the bill establishes prohibitions on the production and marketing of specific products and establishes waste disposal requirements for industrial hemp processors. This legislation will become effective upon its publication in the Kansas Register.
This brings the total number of bills signed in the 2019 Legislative Session to 36, with one being vetoed. By law, the Kansas governor has 10 calendar days to sign bills into law, veto bills or allow bills to become law without her signature.
Governor Signs Bill Making Voting More Convenient in Kansas
Applauds coalition of local officials for spearheading the legislation
In an effort to expand and improve voting opportunities in Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly signed House Substitute for Senate Bill 130 yesterday afternoon, amending the law concerning advance ballots, signature requirements and polling places.
“Over the past decade, we have seen countless efforts aimed at making voting more difficult in this state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I hope this will be the first of many laws that help ensure that every voice is heard in our democratic process and that every vote is counted.”
House Substitute for Senate Bill 130 will give county election officials the discretion to allow all registered voters to cast their ballot at any polling place in their county on election day. It also requires county election officers to attempt to contact each voter who submitted an advance voting ballot without a signature or with a signature that does not match the signature on file. The voter will be allowed to correct their signature before the commencement of the final tallying of votes in that county.
“This law is about local control and protecting every vote,” Kelly said. “I applaud all of the local and state officials who worked together to make this law a reality, especially those in Sedgwick County who were the driving force behind it.”
This brings the total number of bills signed in the 2019 Legislative Session to 37, with one being vetoed. By law, the Kansas governor has 10 calendar days to sign bills into law, veto bills or allow bills to become law without her signature.