Category Archives: Government

New Employee Profile: Uniontown Post Office

Remick Paulsen, Uniontown Post Office Clerk, 2018

Remick Paulsen, 22, is the new U.S. Postal Service Clerk at Uniontown.

This is an employee profile to let the community better know her.

Experience: First job in the postal service

Education: Graduated from Paola High School in 2014, Fort Scott Community College in 2016 and earned a bachelor of science degree in agricultural business from Kansas State University in 2018.

Why did you choose this as your career?

“I enjoy working with people. I feel like you get the small town feel working in a post office, and it’s a career.

Paulsen also works in the Fort Scott Post Office as needed.

The Uniontown Post Office is located at 106 2nd Street.

Hours of the office are 7 to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday, 7 to 9 a.m. The phone number is 620-756-4377.

The Uniontown mail delivery includes Uniontown, Mapleton, and Redfield, she said.

Karen Saker, the longtime Uniontown Postmistress, retired at the end of August 2018.

 

 

New Employee Profile: Fort Scott Community Development Director

Robert Uhler became the City of Fort Scott Community Development Director Sept. 10.

This is an employee profile to allow the community to know him better.

Age: 49

Family: Married to Laurie Uhler, two grown children, one granddaughter.

What will be your duties in this position?

“Community Development is all about creating a positive quality of life in our community. Everything from infrastructure to parks, sidewalks, trails, to the historic downtown structures/district. I will also be participating in the zoning process and procedures. Housing is one of the very important issues that we need to deal with as a community.”

Experience:

“Over 20 years in the construction building industry, spending the last eight years as the executive vice-president of a non-profit serving independently owned building material suppliers.”

Education:

Baker University, US Chamber Foundation – Institute of Organizational Management, Certified Association Executive, Univ. Texas – Arlington, Specialist in Safety and Health.

Community involvement:

Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Board Member, Fort Scott Church of the Nazarene Treasurer, Project 17  – (17 SE KS Counties) Board Member, US Chamber Foundation Northeast Regent Member.

Hobbies: Golfing, outdoor sports, music – playing drums.

 

“I just love this community and anything that I can do to help our community grow, and prosper, I’m excited about doing.”

 

Robert Uhler: Fort Scott’s New Community Development Director

Robert Uhler Community Development Director. Submitted photo.

A shifting in personnel and a new face have been added to the City of Fort Scott.

Robert Uhler has been hired as Community Development Director.

Uhler will be helping with housing development, grant writing and representing the city in Topeka and Washington D.C. with elected officials, City Manager Dave Martin said in an interview.

Dave Martin. Submitted photo.

“Robert will be bringing outside money in to help us accomplish what’s needed in the community,” Martin said.

According to the city’s minutes dated Sept. 4, 2018, Rhonda Dunn will move from Community Development Director to Finance Director/Codes Director.

Rhonda Dunn

“Rhonda was doing two big jobs (Community Development and Codes Director),” Martin said in an interview. “With Jon Garrison retiring (this month), I was able to move some resources around.”

Community Development will be partnering with Economic Development to move the city forward, Martin said.

Other changes:

“Marlene Braker had the title of assistant to the finance director,” according to the minutes. “This position is not needed so her title will change to the financial analyst.”

Marlene Braker. Submitted photo.

“Paul Ballou has been promoted to Fort Scott’s Assistant City Manager/Fire Chief. He will be the second in command when the City Manager is unavailable,” according to the minutes.

Paul Ballou. Submitted photo.

Airport Director Kenny Howard is retiring effective December 31 and this position is posted on the city’s website. The new airport director will now report to Rachel Pruitt, Economic Development Director, according to the minutes.

Retiring Airport Director Kenny Howard with Rachel Pruitt, Economic Director for the city.

Deb Needleman, Human Resource Director, will begin overseeing the Information Technology position and taking over the city’s liability insurance which Kenny Howard has overseen, according to the minutes.

Deb Needleman. Submitted photo.

Dave Martin will supervise Larry Gazaway now and the new Community Development Director, according to the city’s minutes.

Larry Gazaway

U.S. Naturalization Ceremony Sept. 21 At The Fort

New citizens take an oath of allegiance to the United States in September 2017 at Fort Scott National Historic Site.

On a typically bright and sunny September day, U.S. immigrants from near and far come annually to Fort Scott for the final step in becoming citizens.

In 2018, the naturalization ceremony is at 10:30 a.m this Friday, Sept. 21 on the grounds of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, according to a press release provided by FSNHS.

The Fort is located just off North Main Street in downtown Fort Scott.

In case of rain or other inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at Fort Scott Memorial Hall, according to the press release.

The ceremony is one of listening to patriotic music, listening to both local and government dignitaries, newly naturalized citizens being introduced one-by-one to those attending the event, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States, and receiving a certificate of citizenship.

Fort Scottian Jane Njeri Lifer smiles following the naturalization ceremony in September 2017. In her hand is the certificate of naturalization.

The United States District Court for the District of Kansas will hold the special naturalization ceremony, with the Honorable Teresa J. James, United States Magistrate Judge for the District of Kansas,  presiding, according to the press release.

The ceremony will feature musical performances from the Fort Scott High School orchestra and choir, and an address from Robert L. Farmer, Attorney at Law, according to the information provided.

The Fort Scott High School orchestra and choir performed “America” at last year’s naturalization ceremony.

The Pittsburg State University Army ROTC will present the colors.

The new citizens will be invited to register to vote and enjoy a lunch provided by the Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site, following the ceremony.

Also following the ceremony, there are usually small groups of people taking photos to commemorate the event.

Approximately 100 applicants will be naturalized at the ceremony, which is open to the public.

“We encourage the people to learn more about Fort Scott, the Fort and their American culture,” Carl Brenner, chief of interpretation and resource management at the Fort, said.

The Fort can be reached at 620- 223-0310.

 

 

 

Ballot Educational Event

REMINDER OF EVENT THIS SATURDAY!
See information below. It is requested you purchase your tickets by Wednesday either from the Chamber, from Bill Brittain 620-224-8657, or online here.
YOU ARE INVITED!
On the November election ballot for residents of Bourbon County there will be a question to pass what is called “Liquor by the Drink”.
A “YES” vote simply means that existing and future establishments will not be bound by the current requirement in Bourbon County that 30% of annual sales need to be from the sales of food.  Repeal of this requirement has already been passed in many counties in Kansas as the art of craft beer is growing and makers desire to focus on their craft and not be in the food/restaurant business.
Following is how the question will read on the ballot:
“Shall sale of alcoholic liquor by the individual drink in Bourbon County, Kansas, be allowed in public places without a requirement that any portion of their gross sales be from the sales of food?”
This passing will benefit a number of businesses and organizations in Bourbon County to not have the food sales requirement.
You are invited to a Ballot Educational Event
to hear why so you can be informed when you go to the polls.
Enjoy a fun evening and filet dinner for only $20
featuring Guest Speaker Bryan Ritter of
The Boiler Room Brewhaus.

You may purchase filet dinner tickets at the Elks Lodge, Boiler Room Brewhaus, Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, or click below to purchase online ($2 credit card processing fee per ticket applies).
Dinner is limited to 100 tickets, get yours today!
Filets are from The Butcher Block ~ yum ~ don’t miss out!

Agenda For the Bourbon County Commission Sept. 18

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

2nd Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: September 18th, 2018

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

9:00-9:45-Jim Harris

10:00-10:30-Terry Sercer-2017 Audit

10:30-11:00-Don Doherty

11:00-11:15-Dewayne Allen-Drywood Township

11:15-12:00-Justin Meeks

Executive Session-Privileged in the attorney-client relationship-10 min.

Economic Development-30 min.

12:00-1:30-Commissioners gone to lunch

1:30-2:00-Judge Harth-Executive Session-30 min.

2:00-4:30-Commissioners are packing to move to 1st floor.

Justifications for Executive Session:

          Personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel

          Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship

          Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency

          Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships

          Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

          Matters relating to the security of a public body or agency, public building or facility or the information system of a public body or agency, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize the security of such public body, agency, building, facility or information system

Lowered Flags for Sheriff Deputy

Governor Jeff Colyer orders flags flown at half-staff in honor of Sheriff’s Deputy Robert Kunze

 

Topeka – In accordance with Executive Order 10-12, Governor Jeff Colyer has ordered flags in Sedgwick County to be flown at half-staff beginning immediately at the request of Sedgwick County officials, until sundown tomorrow, September 18, 2018, in honor of Sheriff’s Deputy Robert Kunze who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday.

 

In addition, as is customary, Governor Colyer will be ordering flags to be flown half-staff statewide from sun up to sun down on the day of Deputy Kunze’s funeral, details of which will be announced at a future time.

 

“My deepest condolences to the family of Deputy Robert Kunze, who lost his life yesterday in the line of duty,” said Gov. Colyer. “We honor him for his bravery and send our thoughts and prayers to all his fellow deputies during this difficult time.”

To receive email alerts when the Governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit http://governor.ks.gov/subscribe-to-flag-honors.

 

Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission For Sept. 4

CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of September 4, 2018 Regular Meeting #17

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held September 4th, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Adamson, Bartelsmeyer, Nichols, and Parker were present with Mayor Mitchell presiding.

INVOCATION: Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City and all government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Janet Braun, Travis Shelton, Rhonda Dunn, Paul Ballou, Dave Bruner, Michael Mix, Mike Billings, Kenny Howard, Darrell Parker, Kenneth Rood, Larry Gazaway, Deb Needleman, and Clayton Miller, and representing the press, Jason Silvers, Fort Scott Tribune.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of August 21st, 2018.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1222-A totaling $1,650,284.63.

  1. Resolution 34-2018 – Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 15 S. Crawford Street – Public Hearing Date – 10/16/2018 – 6:15 p.m.

Bartelsmeyer moved the Consent Agenda. Parker seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: None

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 3 minute

limit per citizen) – None

  1. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Review of Water Plant KDHE Inspection – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that the Water Treatment Plant recently had an inspection by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. He is happy to report that no deficiencies of any kind were found. He is very proud of his Water Treatment Plant crew and recognized them for their hard work.

  1. Letter of Conditions – USDA – River Intake Structure Grant – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, introduced to the Commission Michael Billings, Area Specialist, with Rural Development of Iola, Kansas.

Mike Billings informed the Commission that he was present to go over the Letter of Conditions for the Water Treatment Plant and Dam Improvements project. The loan application has been received by R.D.A. and is in the amount of $4,925,000. This loan will be administered by the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and area staff of USDA Rural Development. All conditions set forth under Section III must be met within 280 days of the date of this letter. He did state that this time frame can be extended if needed. He briefly went over all eight sections of the Letter of Conditions and 46 items on it. He did highlight on a few of the items.

Project Description: Funds will be used to make improvements to the Intake Facility, SCADA, and the water treatment plant clearwell and will provide an opportunity to further investigate the dam design and construction. Development items include: improvements to access road, emergency pump connection, water transmission main condition assessment, replacement of intake gates and actuators, replacing mechanical and intake screen, repairing intake pumps, replace pump motors and install VFD’s, replacing check valves and insulation valves, installing a new mixing system in the wetwell, install grout in the corners of the wetwell wall, installing a sump pump, providing davit cranes, replacing the roof, tuck pointing and sealing the brick structure, provide internal roof access, replacing old heating and ventilating equipment, modifying the existing power feed, providing a stationary standby generator, surge protection, RTU and radio system, security monitoring, SCADA improvements, temporary dam access, and abutment analysis.

The project is budgeted as follows:

Construction $3,132,000

Contingency $ 469,800

Engineering Fees $ 848,300

Includes:

PreDevelopment $ 114,000

Design $ 344,300

Construction Administration $ 390,000

Interest – Interim $ 199,900

Legal & Administrative Fees $ 275,000

Total Project Costs $4,925,000

Loan Terms: The interest rate will be the lower of the rate in effect at the time of loan approval or at the time of loan closing, unless otherwise requested. The loan is for a period of 40 years. Payments will be equal annual amortized installments, beginning one year after closing. A 3.125% interest rate and an amortization factor of 44.15, which provides for an annual payment of $217,439 is used. This amount could be slightly different based on the interest rate at which the loan is closed.

Mr. Billings asked for approval of four items:

  1. Letter of Intent to Meet Conditions

  2. Request for Obligation of Funds

  3. Certification Approval

  4. RD Staff NPA Certification Checklist

Bartelsmeyer moved to approve the Mayor sign all these documents after they have met the approval of the City Attorney. Parker seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS: 1) LETTER OF INTENT TO MEET CONDITIONS; 2) REQUEST FOR OBLIGATION OF FUNDS; 3) CERTIFICATION APPROVAL; 4) RD STAFF NPA CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST. CITY ATTORNEY AUTHORIZIED ALL FORMS ARE APPROVED FOR SIGNATURE. – USDA WATER TREATMENT PLANT RDA LOAN – $4,925,000.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

Director Updates: Paul Ballou and Dave Bruner – Dave Bruner, Deputy Fire Marshal, gave the Commission an update on the calls they have taken so far in 2018. As of today, they are at 1,116 calls. In 2017, the calls totaled 1,594 so they are very consistent with last year. In addition to all the calls they attend to, they also conduct inspections in accordance with the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office. The Fire Department inspects all schools, restaurants, motels/hotels, nursing homes, health care facilities, and any public facility.  The State Fire Marshal’s office inspects Fort Scott Community College and the health care facility.  The Fire Department does over seventy inspections a year. With their volume call, starting an inspection, and then getting called away on a call, it is becoming increasingly hard to finish inspections as they should be. He asked the Commission to approve for the State Fire Marshal’s office to take over inspecting all of the hotel/motel facilities in the City which will alleviate that from their inspection list. The Fire Department will continue to go in there once a year for a pre-planning inspection at the hotels/motels to prepare in case of a fire.

Mitchell moved to approve to allow the State Fire Marshal’s office to begin inspecting all hotels/motels in the City of Fort Scott. Parker seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOW THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE TO BEGIN INSPECTING ALL HOTELS/MOTELS IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT.

B. City Commission:

Adamson Echoed Commissioner Parker’s comments.

Bartelsmeyer Nothing to report.

Nichols Also echoed Commissioner Parker’s comments.

Parker – Recognized the Water Plant personnel for their excellent inspection results. She also recognized the Fire/EMS for their excellent service. She stated that the average citizens do not understand what all goes into running a City.

Mitchell Nothing to report.

C. City Attorney: Nothing to report.

  1. City Manager:

  1. Changes at City Hall – City Manager announced that Jon Garrison, Director of Finance, has retired. There will be a reception held for him on Friday, September 7th from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. to celebrate the great job he did while he was here.

With the retirement of Jon Garrison, became an opportunity to make changes. The following changes have been made:

Rhonda Dunn will move from Community Development Director to Finance Director/Codes Director. Rhonda will keep the Codes position as well for now. Resources may need to be added in that department if needed.

Marlene Braker had the title of Assistant to the Finance Director. This position is not needed so her title will change to Financial Analyst.

Paul Ballou has been promoted to Assistant City Manager/Fire Chief. He will be the second in command when the City Manager is unavailable.

Community Development Director – This position will be posted on the City’s website today.

Kenny Howard is retiring effective December 31st. This position is open on the City’s website and will now report to Rachel Pruitt, Economic Development Director.

Deb Needleman, Human Resource Director, will begin overseeing the IT position and taking over the City’s insurance which Kenny Howard has overseen.

Dave Martin will supervise Larry Gazaway now and the new Community Development Director.

ADJOURNMENT:

Nichols moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m. Parker seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 6:45 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on September 18th, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

____________________

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

Fort Scott City Commission Meeting Agenda For Sept. 28

AGENDA

FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

FORT SCOTT CITY HALL

COMMISSION ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN

SEPTEMBER 18, 2018

6:00 P.M.

I. ROLL CALL:

ADAMS BARTELSMEYER MASON NICHOLS MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE

III. INVOCATION: First Church of the Nazarene Pastor

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:

Valetta Cannon – Southeast Kansas Library System Excellence Award presentation

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of September 4th, 2018.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1223-A totaling $406,758.85.

  1. Resolution 35-2018 – Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 302 S. Lowman Street – Public Hearing Date – 10/16/2018 – 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 36-2018 – Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 421 W. 5th Street – Public Hearing Date – 10/16/2018 – 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 37-2018 – Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 1110 Scott Avenue – Public Hearing Date – 10/16/2018 – 6:15 p.m.

  1. Resolution 39-2018 – Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Accessory Structure located in vacant lot south of 711 S. Barbee Street – Public Hearing Date – 10/16/2018 – 6:15 p.m.

VII. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: Tom Robertson – October 26th, 2018 – Zombie Run – 5K Race – Gunn Park

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 3 minute limit per citizen)

C. PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:

6:00 p.m. – Public Hearing – Vacation of Street – Barbee Street – between 10th & 11th Street between Barbee and Little – Fort Scott Christian Heights c/o Terry Chance and Cecil J & Cynthia K Feagins, Jr. – (Jerry Witt) – Approval of Ordinance #3539

6:15 p.m. – Resolution 38-2018 directing the repair or removal of an unsafe and dangerous structure and accessory structure located at 111 S. Little Street

VIII. CONSIDERATION:

  1. Riverfront Grant submittal update

  1. Comprehensive Plan update
  1. Consideration of Bids – Waterway Mowing

IX. COMMENTS:

  1. Director Updates: Rhonda Dunn
  1. Commission:
  1. City Attorney:
  1. City Manager: Introduction of Community Development Director

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE

SESSION FOR ________________________________ IN ORDER TO

(see below justification)

DISCUSS ______________________________________. THE

EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE ___________ MINUTES AND THE OPEN

MEETING TO RESUME AT ________________.

Justifications for Executive Sessions:

  • Personnel matters of non-elected personnel

  • Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship

  • Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative or representatives of the body or agency

  • Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships

  • Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL

Governor Updates Drought Declarations in Kansas Counties

The Governor’s Drought Team examines recent rains and drought conditions

 

Topeka – Recent rains for many areas of the state have led to evaluating current drought conditions and today Governor Jeff Colyer updated the Drought Declaration for Kansas counties with Executive Order 18-17. The update downgrades 55 counties.

 

“Kansas has been blessed with much-needed rains recently and we are able to declare many areas of the state now drought free,” said Governor Jeff Colyer. “We are still experiencing drought in the eastern portion of the state and continue to appreciate our federal partners at the Natural Resources Conservation Service as well as the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts for the producer assistance they are able to provide.”

 

With improvements in drought conditions the updated drought declaration now has 50 counties in emergency status, and five in watch status. This action was recommended by Tracy Streeter, Director of the Kansas Water Office (KWO) and Chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team.

 

“Recent moisture has eased some of the drought conditions but we are still experiencing livestock water shortages, and forage production were less than half for most producers in eastern Kansas,” said Tracy Streeter. “Some areas of northeast Kansas are still behind more than 10 inches of moisture for the year.”

 

Counties in the emergency stage are eligible for emergency use of water from certain state fishing lakes due to the KWO Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Kansas Department of Wildlife (KDWPT). They also become eligible for water in some Federal reservoirs. For more information about this availability contact KWO.

 

This Executive Order and any authorized upgrade shall remain in effect for those counties so identified until rescinded by Executive Order or superseded by a subsequent Executive Order revising the drought stage status of the affected counties. Effective immediately:

 

  • Declare a Drought Emergency, Warning or Drought Watch for the counties identified below;
  • Authorize and direct all agencies under the jurisdiction of the Governor to implement the appropriate watch or warning or emergency level-drought response actions assigned in the Operations Plan of the Governor’s Drought Response Team.

The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the effects the drought has on Kansans.

 

For more detailed information about current conditions, see the Kansas Climate Summary and Drought Report on the Kansas Water Office website at www.kwo.ks.gov.

 

County Drought Stage Declarations:

 

Drought Emergency: Anderson, Atchison, Bourbon, Brown, Butler, Cherokee, Clay, Coffey, Cowley, Crawford, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Ellsworth,  Franklin, Geary, Greenwood,  Harper, Harvey, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Kingman, Labette,  Leavenworth, Lincoln, Linn, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, McPherson, Miami, Montgomery, Morris, Nemaha, Neosho, Osage, Ottawa, Pawnee, Pottawatomie, Reno, Rice, Riley, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Washington, Wyandotte

 

Drought Watch: Allen, Chautauqua, Elk, Wilson, Woodson

The Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Sept. 11

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

2nd Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: September 11th, 2018

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

9:00-9:45-Jim Harris

9:00-Jeremiah Hill-Roads-245th

10:00-10:15-2019 Budget Hearing

11:00-12:00-Justin Meeks

Executive Session-Privileged in the attorney-client relationship-10 min.

NRP-15 min.

12:00-1:30-Commissioners gone to lunch

1:30-2:00-Justin Meeks

2:00-2:30-Flu Shots

2:30-3:00-Bill Martin

3:00-3:15-Prayer Rally

3:15-David Neville-Flooring

Justifications for Executive Session:

          Personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel

          Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship

          Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency

          Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships

          Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

          Matters relating to the security of a public body or agency, public building or facility or the information system of a public body or agency, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize the security of such public body, agency, building, facility or information system

Kansas Anti-Human Trafficking Manager Named

Secretary Meier-Hummel Announces Anti-Human Trafficking Program Manager

Kent Bauman brings wealth of experience to DCF

TOPEKA – Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) Secretary Gina Meier-Hummel is pleased to announce Kent Bauman as the Human Trafficking Program Manager. This is a new position created to help coordinate Anti-Human Trafficking efforts across the state.

Prior to serving the agency, Bauman served at the Wichita Police Department, where he had been employed since 1987. Most recently, he was assigned to the Exploited and Missing Children Unit (EMCU). While at the EMCU, he regularly partnered with DCF to investigate cases of missing children, runaways, human trafficking and Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC). Since 2006, Bauman was involved in the investigation of more than 200 CSEC cases, and he was the first investigator to charge and convict a human trafficker in the state of Kansas.

“Kent has extensive knowledge about human trafficking and we are excited and grateful to have him at the agency,” said Secretary Meier-Hummel. “We purposefully created this position because we wanted to strengthen DCF’s approach to preventing human trafficking, and I believe Kent’s impressive background will serve him well as he leads DCF anti-human trafficking efforts across the state.”

In addition to serving as the Human Trafficking Program Manager, Bauman will also dually serve as the DCF Law Enforcement liaison, to help improve communication and collaboration between the agency and local law enforcement.

Bauman has a bachelor’s degree in Education from Southwest Baptist University.

“I look forward to working with law enforcement, local community partners and other state agencies to help improve DCF Anti-Human Trafficking efforts in Kansas,” said Bauman. “Trafficking survivors are some of our most vulnerable Kansans, and I am humbled to serve them in this new capacity at DCF. Secretary Meier-Hummel has made preventing human trafficking one of her top priorities, and I am excited to work alongside her in this effort.”

DCF partners with local law enforcement and other state agencies to address human trafficking in Kansas. DCF is statutorily required to conduct an initial assessment of children/youth whom law enforcement reasonably believes are victims of human trafficking to determine “safety, appropriate and timely placement and appropriate services to meet the immediate needs of the child.”

If you believe you are a victim of human trafficking or may have information about a possible trafficking situation:

  • Call 911 if there is risk of immediate harm
  • Contact the National Human Trafficking hotline: 1-888-373-7888 Or text “befree” at (233733)
  • If the possible human trafficking victim is a minor, also call the Kansas Protection Report Center (KPRC) at 1-800-922-5330.