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Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Commission Minutes of Jan. 21

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of January 21, 2020 Regular Meeting #2

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held January 21st, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners K. Allen, P. Allen, R. Nichols and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Mitchell presiding.

INVOCATION: Pastor Paul Rooks, Grace Baptist Tabernacle, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Travis Shelton, Tom Graham, Rachel Pruitt, Jara Martin, Brian Coomes, Paul Rooks, Robert Uhler, Deb Needleman, Eric Bailey, Sam Hayes, Ryan Coon, Daniel Creitz, Don George, Deb McCoy, Cheryl Adamson, Janice Allen, Michael Hoyt, Lindsay Madison, Matthew Wells, Michael Mix, Susan Bancroft, John Coon, Clayton Miller, Max Fanning, Jason Gorman, and representing the press, Jason Silvers, Fort Scott Tribune.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of January 7th, 2020.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1254-A totaling $805,509.03.

  1. Request to Pay #2 – Strukel Electric, Inc. – $125,107.65 (Electric Vault Building – Airport)

  1. Consideration of Pay Request #5 – Crossland Construction – River Intake Project – $242,379.46

Commissioner Kevin Allen asked what Item C was – the Electric Vault Building.

Rachel explained that is a grant that was received through F.A.A. entitlement funds. It is a 90%/10% grant. This is for the construction of a vault building to house all the electrical equipment in. This is their first payment.

Discussion was held regarding Item D, which is the River Intake Project. Commissioner Pete Allen asked if inspections were being done on this project. Susan Bancroft said there is an inspector on the job.

Commissioner Kevin Allen questioned the legal fees for Gilmore & Bell in the amount of $10,500.

Susan Bancroft informed them that this is for legal fees for the Equipment Lease Purchase. A bond attorney has to be hired to do the paperwork for this project and this is their fees.

Commissioner Kevin Allen questioned the Wellness Incentive Program.

Deb Needleman said that this is a wellness program for the employees. You have to have 720 minutes of activity for a month-long period. The employee tracks this and their supervisor signs off on it and then she and the City Manager approve it. The employee is reimbursed $20.00 towards a health club membership, bank the money to make a purchase for something related to physical activity, or get a $20.00 G & W gift card for purchase of healthy foods.

Commissioner Kevin Allen questioned the Ace Pipe Cleaning invoice in the amount of $39,400. Discussion was held regarding the different types of repair and the related costs.

Pete Allen made a motion to remove the Ace Pipe Cleaning Invoice from the Appropriation Ordinances to be paid. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO REMOVE THE ACE PIPE CLEANING INVOICE FROM THE APPROPRIATION ORDINANCES.

Randy Nichols made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion died for lack of a second.

Kevin Allen said he had another question on the Appropriation Ordinances. He questioned the fees for the Lauber Municipal Law Firm.

Kevin Allen made a motion to remove the payment for the Lauber Municipal Law Firm. Randy Nichols seconded. Roll call was not taken due to further discussion. Kevin Allen mentioned discussing this in executive session.

Jeff Deane, City Attorney, said that there isn’t any way to avoid it. The bill is public and you are in a public meeting.

Kevin mentioned that there was a lot assessed due to the Kansas Open Meetings violation. Should the City absorb the costs?

Jeff Deane said that the complaint lodged with the Attorney General’s office was reviewed there and they sent a letter of inquiry to the City Commission. We had to respond as a City to these allegations.

Kevin asked if the costs assessed were excessive.

Jeff Deane said the costs were all accounted for in this invoice.

Kevin Allen moved the Consent Agenda. Randy Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

Commissioner Randy Nichols said that he wished to revisit the 5-minute time frame for citizen comments. He said that he believes that we are putting a burden on the Mayor and the Commission.

Randy Nichols moved to change the time limit to 5 minutes flat for citizen comments. The motion died for lack of a second.

Kevin Allen said that he hears from people that they feel they are limited and that isn’t enough time. He said he will stand strong on the 5 minutes and allow for more time if the Commission allows it.

Mayor Mitchell said that she feels that we all want people to be heard. When you have further issues that take more time, the Commissioners and City Staff are all open to meeting with them.

Jeff Deane, attorney, explained the Kansas Open Meetings Act to the Commission regarding public comments.

Randy Nichols made a motion to change the time limit for citizen comments to 5 minutes flat. Mayor Mitchell seconded. Nichols, Watts, and Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen and P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED TO CHANGE THE CITIZEN COMMENT TIME FRAME TO 5 MINUTES FLAT.

  1. APPEARANCE: Don George, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism – Mr. George appeared before the Commission to inform the Commissioners about the Communities Fisheries Assistance Program (C.F.A.P.) program that the City of Fort Scott participates in. Several years ago the City decided to participate in this program and not charge for City fishing permits. The State pays the City not to charge for fishing permits. The State pays the City two checks a year. These funds are used for enhancing fishing opportunities. The amount paid is estimated to be $24,000. The City notifies the State how this amount is used. The State assists in stocking fish in all the City ponds. This includes Fort Scott Lake, Rock Creek Lake, the two FSCC ponds, and the two ponds in Gunn Park. He estimates that since 1987, 230,000 channel cat have been stocked in City lakes. There has been about 60,000 trout put in Fern Lake at Gunn Park. There was 491,000 walleye stocked, blue gill and bass in all these ponds. He also updated them on grants the City has used with the State.

Commissioners informed him of the newly formed Lake Advisory Board Committee. Robert will invite Mr. George to the next meeting.

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute

limit per citizen) –

Tom Graham – Mr. Graham said that he is the Lake Patrol Officer for Lake Fort Scott. He patrols all the lakes in the City. He attended the Lake Fort Scott Advisory Committee a couple of weeks ago. They asked him to ask the Commission if it would be possible to have a big fireworks display at Lake Fort Scott financed by the people of Lake Fort Scott. Ethan Hart and Shaun Pytlowany would be shooting off the fireworks as they are both licensed. They also have liability insurance. They would like to shoot these off at Sciortino Park. They would like the City’s permission for this event. They would like to shoot these off on July 4th, 2020. They will have a rural fire truck also there.

City Manager said that the City will contact their insurance company also. He said he is also concerned with congestion if the event grows. That is why the City moved their fireworks event to July 3rd due to the safety issue.

Mitchell moved to approve the fireworks event at Sciortino Park only at Lake Fort Scott on July 4th for a public fireworks display. Watts seconded. All voted aye.

approved the fireworks event at Sciortino Park only at Lake Fort Scott on July 4th for a public fireworks display.

Eric Bailey – Eric informed the Commission that he wished to address the Joplin Toolbox issue and he had a couple of questions. This originally wasn’t on the agenda on Friday but found out it was on there now. He asked if the Commission was ready to approve this tonight and if they have looked at the map. On the purple lines on his map, the ones that you should be doing, or should you be looking at the red lines which are in dire need of repair. He said that there are questions that need to be asked about the Joplin Toolbox. He just doesn’t know what is going to be presented to the Commission tonight.

Kevin Allen said he would like to see this map. He knows it is on the wall, but he would like to see it up close.

Matthew Wells – Matt said his remarks are also about the Joplin Toolbox. He said this company is headquartered in Paris, France. He believes the CIPP is a questionable method to repair our sanitary sewers. There are 1.6 miles to be replaced at a cost of $250,000 to the citizens. By definition, it is just a repair and not a replacement and the cost would use up all of the budget for 2020 for sanitary sewer. He did some research and found a company named Sage Water Inc. and it is the nation’s leading pipe replacement company with over 28 years of business. They have replaced over 32 million feet of pipe along the way as the largest and only nationwide company exclusively for pipe replacement. They constantly look to innovate and stay ahead of their competition. They have many customers who have hired them time and time again. They regularly evaluate all the new technologies and over the years have looked at the pipe lining to add to their portfolio services. As they went through the pipe lining evaluation process, they found a number of concerns and they could not ignore these concerns. They decided not to include pipe lining to their core business. In this company’s opinion, the risk associated with lining pipes is too great to offer to their clients. They cannot recommend this solution to their clients. He asked the Commission to do more research on this issue. The Joplin Toolbox is not a good deal for our City. He did some basic research and this is more suited for civil engineering work for more detailed design specifications to be carried out prior to letting the contract. He compared prices between the Joplin Toolbox and another company called R. H. Price. He compared prices for manholes and pipe lengths. He asked the Commission to be more educated on the Joplin Toolbox and look at other companies out there. He also suggested using our own City crews and saving money.

  1. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration of approval of final plat for the property more commonly known as 401 Woodland Hills Boulevard – Approval of Ordinance No. 3557 – Rachel Pruitt, Economic Development Director, informed the Commission that Sam Hayes and Daniel Creitz are both here with C.H.C. and also Brian Coomes with Olsson Engineering. This subdivision of land began before Thanksgiving. This is as quick as it could come before you. There was a 21 day publication period before it could be heard before the Planning Commission and a 14 day waiting period between the Planning Commission and the City Commission meetings. There is one parcel of land that is 35 acres that is owned by Mercy. The proposed lot split into separate lots will allow for future development and deeds of property and donations of land for hopefully health care development. In the minutes of the Planning Commission, by adopting the subdivision of land, public access of land will be allowed to each of those lots. Currently Woodland Hills Boulevard is a privately owned road. This will allow public access and public right of way roads and allow public easements for the water and sewer to these separate lots. Ascension Via Christi sent a letter of support for this subdivision final plat as they were unable to be here tonight.

Daniel Creitz, said he was general counsel for C.H.C. and located in Pittsburg, Kansas. He asked that the Commission continue to move forward on the subdivision of the land. They plan to build a 25,000 square foot medical facility on the west parcel of land. The sooner this is subdivided, the sooner they can get the deed, apply for U.S.D.A. loans, and they can break ground. This is very important to them. They have enjoyed a great medical practice up here with great patients, great providers, and a great community. He would appreciate their moving forward on this.

Nichols moved to approve the final subdivision plat and approve Ordinance No. 3557. Kevin Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3557 APPROVING THE FINAL SUBDIVISION OF PLAT 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 – APPROVED FINAL PLAT SUBDIVISION LOCATED AT 401 WOODLAND HILLS BOULEVARD.

  1. Consideration of Contract with Suez Treatment Solutions for SCADA upgrades to the ozone system at the Water Treatment Plant – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission, that this item was tabled from the previous meeting. This SCADA update is included in the USDA loan. Michael said that this is a sole vendor for this item.

Commissioner Kevin Allen said that he was the one who asked for it to be tabled. He went to the plant and went through the ozone building.

K. Allen moved to approve the contract for the SCADA upgrades to the ozone system with Suez Treatment Solutions, Inc. in the amount of $184,847.00. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approveD the contract for the SCADA upgrades to the ozone system with Suez Treatment Solutions, Inc. in the amount of $184,847.00.

  1. Consideration of purchase of Composite Wastewater Sampler to obtain samples for K.D.H.E. and waive the bidding process – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission, that we have deposit samplers for testing per our K.D.H.E. permit. One of these samplers, original to the plant in 2002, is no longer functioning and needs replaced as soon as possible. Currently, his crew is collecting grab samples rather than composite. He asked the Commission to approve this low quote that he received and forego the competitive bidding process. The three quotes were from Accurate Laboratory Supplies in the amount of $7,186.43, Hach in the amount of $11,012.00, and USA Blue Book in the amount of $7,194.50. The quotes from Hach and USA Blue Book did not include shipping. The quote from ALS did include shipping. He asked approval for the low quote from Accurate Laboratory Supplies in the amount of $7,186.43 and to waive the competitive bidding process.

K. Allen moved to approve the quote from Accurate Laboratory Supplies in the amount of $7,186.43 and to waive the bidding process on this project. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

approved the quote from Accurate Laboratory Supplies in the amount of $7,186.43 and to waive the bidding process on this project.

  1. Consideration of approval of Joplin Toolbox Contract for 2020 sanitary sewer work – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission, that he wanted to thank Eric Bailey and Matt Wells for their input and assistance. He is very interested in what they both have found.

Discussion was held between the red lines and the purple lines. Michael Mix said that the red lines have to be dug up. The purple lines can be lined.

Michael Mix explained the lining process of the sewer pipes to the Commission.

Discussion was held regarding time frames and if we have time to wait and put this project off.

Commissioner Pete Allen said that we have the crews and equipment ready to go. Our money is going out of town to the Joplin Toolbox and we should keep it local.

Commissioner Watts said she would like to see numbers and what it would look like to use our own crews versus paying the Joplin Toolbox.

Commissioner Pete Allen said that he and Kevin Allen have over 80 years of experience in dealing with excavation and sewers. He doesn’t think the Joplin Toolbox is the direction to go.

Michael Mix said that Ace Pipeline will be here on Monday. He has been waiting for them for over a year. Instead of asking for $250,000, he is only going to ask for $130,000. He prioritized the purple lines and will have the worse lines piped first. This leaves $120,000 in reserve for health care opportunities that may arise. He only is asking for $130,000. He said that if it was a point repair, we could not do it cheaper than the Joplin Toolbox. He shared comparisons between the City crew costs and what Joplin Toolbox would charge.

Discussion was held on putting these jobs out for bids and engineering costs. It was also held on life expectancy of the pipes.

City Manager said that Commissioner Pete Allen and Kevin Allen bring expertise to this table. If we can afford a crew, he will work with Susan to look at the budget.

Michael asked them to vote on the $130,000 and complete half of the purple lines on the map. He has been waiting on them for one year to come and complete this project.

Commissioner Nichols said he doesn’t think we know all the financial information that is needed for this project. There are still questions.

Commission Kevin Allen made a motion to table this issue and look at all our options before the money is spent. (The motion died for lack of a second).

Commissioners Watts said that she feels this is not in the best interest of the taxpayer’s money. She would like to see numbers in front of her rather than opinions.

Commissioners Nichols said we can table it or we can go ahead and approve this smaller amount that he has requested. It may delay some other part of the process.

City Manager said that there is some economic development issues that may be needed with infrastructure costs that could come out of this budget.

Mayor Mitchell asked if this was tabled what would be brought before them again?

Commissioner Kevin Allen said that their job is to give direction to the City Manager.

Randy Nichols made a motion to utilize the $120,000 for the Joplin Toolbox for the projects he can get done and then direct City Staff including Human Resources, Economic Development, and the Finance Department to bring us back a solid plan that shows what to do with the rest of the funds and how to move forward in the years to come. This includes how to use our City crews together and equipment and bring a plan to them. (The motion died for lack of a second).

Commissioner Pete Allen said that he has studied the Joplin Toolbox for some time. He thinks this is a terrible deal and costing the City at least double for what the City crews can do the work for. We need to keep the money local.

Mayor Mitchell asked if the two Commissioners could put a plan together by Friday. This would include the City Manager and Director of Finance working with them also as well as any other directors needed.

JoLynne Mitchell made a motion for the two Commissioners (Pete Allen and Kevin Allen) with the expertise to speak with Dave Martin and the Finance Director to begin work immediately to see if there is a plan available for the lines that need replaced immediately and move forward with that. This will keep the money local and use City crews. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.

Commissioner Nichols said that we need to decide to call the Joplin Toolbox people off for Monday.

Mayor Mitchell said she thinks they should be called off.

Michael Mix asked about the lines that go underneath buildings. He said that one of the long sections go underneath the High School.

Jeff Deane said that there will not be another Commission meeting between now and Friday. Michael will need direction on how to proceed.

Michael said that another option is he could single out the lines that just go underneath the buildings that cannot be cut. There is an $8,000 mobilization fee every time they come. If they have to come back and come back, that will get expensive.

City Manager asked if he had an idea what it would cost to do the lines that go underneath the buildings.

Michael said he could figure it out. He thinks the best thing to do is to halt it right now.

approved for the two city Commissioners (Pete Allen and Kevin Allen) with the expertise to speak with Dave Martin and the Finance Director to begin work immediately to see if there is a plan available for the lines that need replaced immediately and move forward with that. This will keep the money local and use City crews.

  1. Consideration to solicit bids for cleaning and repainting of aquatic center pool – Robert Uhler, Community Development Director, informed the Commission, that he is requesting to solicit bids for sandblasting and painting the pool. He will notify all local painters of this bid opportunity. He asked for approval to solicit bids.

Kevin Allen moved to approve to solicit bids for the sandblasting and painting of the pool. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.

approved to solicit bids for the sandblasting and painting of the pool.

  1. Consideration of Audit contract for 2019 with Diehl, Banwart & Bolton – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, informed the Commission, that this is the annual contract for Diehl, Banwart & Bolton to conduct our yearly audit. The amount of the contract is $18,700.00.

Kevin Allen moved to approve the 2019 audit contract with Diehl, Banwart & Bolton in the amount of $18,700.00. Randy Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED 2019 AUDIT CONTRACT WITH DIEHL, BANWART, & BOLTON IN THE AMOUNT OF $18,700.00.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

  1. Director Updates: None

B. City Commission:

Randy Nichols – Nothing to report.

Kevin Allen – Remarked that this town means a lot to him. He hopes they can always work together with each other.

Lindsey Watts – Nothing to report.

Pete Allen – Remarked that he appreciates the opportunity to serve on the Commission and he enjoys working with each one of the Commissioners and looks forward to getting projects done.

JoLynne Mitchell – Asked the City Attorney about the fees on his invoice with reference to the residency and the ADA charges.

Jeff Deane said that right after he was hired, the residency issue came up. This referred to someone living in a commercial area and living on the first floor. The question came up if there was an ADA law we need to make sure our codes were in compliance. His answer was that the City had to be in compliance with federal law.

  1. City Manager:

  1. Residency Ordinance – City Manager said that Commissioner Kevin Allen asked him to research our ordinances on residency. They have changed from 1969 to current date. Diane has copies if you want one.

  1. You Tube – City Manager said that the City of Pittsburg spent about $50,000 on a New Tech Telecaster to film their commission meetings. They said we could get something smaller and spend about $10,000 – $15,000 and spend about $600 for a camera. If you would like for us to pursue getting a system, he will do so. If the City does keep record these meetings, they will become public record and have to be archived.

Jeff Deane said that he covers the City of Peculiar and he can check with them and see what they do. They have a link on their website, and it takes you to a You Tube channel. He will check into that.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

Mayor Mitchell asked that a 15 minute Executive Session be held to consult with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship. There is no action anticipated. This will include the City Commission, City Attorney and City Manager.

Nichols moved to recess into a 15 minute Executive Session to include the City Manager, the City Attorney and the City Commission to discuss consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship. There is no action anticipated. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

RECESSED INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 8:45 P.M.

ADJOURNMENT:

K. Allen moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 p.m. P. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:00 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on February 4th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Commission Agenda for Feb. 4

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AGENDA

FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

FORT SCOTT CITY HALL

COMMISSION ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

6:00 P.M

The complete agenda packet including financial statement are on the city’s website.

I. ROLL CALL:

K. ALLEN P. ALLEN NICHOLS WATTS MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE:

III. INVOCATION: Pastor James Collins, First Southern Baptist Church

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: American Legion Mid-Winter Forum Proclamation – January 31 – February 2nd, 2020

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of January 21st, 2020.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1255-A totaling $707,843.95.

  1. Correction to December 17, 2019 minutes to reflect Ordinance No. 3556 creating the Street Advisory Committee in lieu of Ordinance No. 3356.

  1. Approval of Ace Pipe Cleaning Invoice – $37,430 (pulled from last meeting) (5% retainage for work to be completed)

  1. Consideration of Approval of Change Proposal Request #8 – Crossland Construction – River Intake Project – $37,408.00

  1. Request to Pay #1 – Schneider Electric – $276,133.87 – Energy Service Project

  1. Approval of December financials

VI. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: None

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute limit per citizen) –

C. PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:

6:15 p.m. Resolution No. 7-2020 -Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 421 W. 5th Street

VII. CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration of street light for the alleyway behind Luther’s BBQ – 3 West Oak Street

  1. Consideration to solicit bids on the replacement of the outside stairs at Memorial Hall – 1 East Third Street

  1. Consideration to hold a Public Hearing on the advisability of creating a Community Improvement District within the City of Fort Scott, Kansas; Establishing a Community Improvement District Sales Tax to finance improvements within such district, providing for the giving of notice of such public hearing, and authorizing actions related thereto – Approval of Resolution No. 8-2020.

  1. Consideration of EMS Medical Director Contract

  1. Consideration of Letter of Support to Bourbon County for health care

VIII. COMMENTS:

  1. Director Updates: Sewer Project – Michael, Chad, Susan, Deb
  1. Commission:
  1. City Manager:

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

Government

2020 Census: Numbers Matter

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This is a photo of  Kansas Department of Transportation employees working on 69 Hwy. as seen from Eagle Road in November 2017. The census affects funding to roads, highways, schools and other community needs.

 

The next nation-wide census begins April 1, 2020.

 

The U.S. has counted its population every 10 years since 1790, according to https://2020census.gov/en

 

This fact may affect funding for needed community services, Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lindsay Madison said, at the recent Jan. 28  downtown meeting.

 

Roads, highways, schools, health clinics,  and fire departments: the census can shape many aspects of a community.

Census results help determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year, according to the census website.

The results also determine how many seats in Congress each state gets, according to the website.

 

It’s important to promote the census, Madison said at the recent meeting.

 

“Starting in mid-March, homes across the country will begin receiving an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census,” according to the census website. “The best way to avoid a visit from a census taker is to fill out the 2020 Census questionnaire online, by phone, or by mail as soon as you receive your invitation to participate.”

 

“It will be online first, then postcards sent, then individual home visit,” Madison said.

The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting to fill hundreds of thousands of temporary positions across the country to assist with the 2020 Census count, according to the census website.

To apply to be a census worker click below:

https://2020census.gov/en/jobs.html

 

 Governor  Encourages Participation in the Census

Governor Laura Kelly appointed Dr. James E. Williams to the Kansas Complete Count Committee, according to a Kelly press release.

 

“The committee was established through an executive order issued by Governor Kelly and serves to coordinate efforts to promote the 2020 Census and encourage a high rate of participation.

 

 

“’Getting the 2020 Census count right is a major priority,’” Kelly said. ‘“James’ addition to the committee is an essential step to getting this count as accurate as possible.’”

 

 

Williams, Emporia, is the vice president for student affairs at Emporia State University. He will replace Reggie Robinson as the Kansas Board of Regents representative on the committee,” quoting from the press release.

 

Fort Scott, Government

City Commissioners to Meet With Sec. of Commerce Jan. 31

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The County is hosting a visit from the Secretary of Commerce David Toland on Friday, January 31st, 2020. There may be a majority of City Commissioners present, but NO City business will be conducted. The public is welcome to attend his visit at Twister Trailers beginning at 9:00 a.m. at 400 N. National and then at Liberty Theater, 117 S. Main Street at 9:45 a.m.

There will be a private meeting held at Luther’s BBQ Restaurant, 3 W. Oak Street, at 10:15 a.m.

Government, Kansas

KCC Investigates Kansas Earthquakes

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Kansas Corporation Commission opens dockets concerning investigation of earthquakes in Reno and Rooks counties

 

TOPEKA, KS — Following an update on seismicity investigations in two areas of the state, the Commission voted unanimously this morning to open general investigation dockets for both Reno County and Rooks County. The dockets will provide a publicly available place to share all information gathered by KCC staff. The dockets also provide a vehicle for the Commission to issue orders if appropriate.

 

“It is the Commission’s duty and responsibility to be transparent with the public and ensure data and research is available to Commissioners in a timely manner. This is a serious issue for everyone, especially those who have experienced the quakes and the resulting damage to their homes and businesses. The people of Kansas deserve answers,” said Commission Chair Susan Duffy.

 

The use of a general investigation docket is the same approach the Commission used in 2015 to address public safety concerns due to seismicity in south central Kansas. In that docket, the Commission issued two orders limiting injection volumes and required operators who had drilled to depths beyond the Arbuckle formation to plug back from well depths that permitted injection or disposal in basement rock. The result was a decrease in seismic activity.

 

KCC Conservation Division Director, Ryan Hoffman, provided today’s status report. He noted that the facts established in Reno and Rooks counties are quite different. In Reno County, there is a mix of Class I wells regulated by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), which are situated in close proximity to the earthquake epicenters. There are also Class II oil and gas wells regulated by the KCC.

Hoffman said in Rooks County, there are only Class II wells and some of those may be deeper than the Arbuckle formation. There is also a history of naturally occurring seismicity in the area.

 

In addition to leading the agency’s seismicity investigation, Hoffman is a participant in the Arbuckle Study Work Group recently formed at the direction of Governor Laura Kelly to bring stakeholders together to better understand the issues and impacts of fluids deposited into the Arbuckle formation. The Kansas Water Office, KDHE and the Kansas Geological Survey are also participants.

The dockets opened today will be available on the KCC’s website next week.

 

Bourbon County, Business, Government

Apex Announces Wind Power Agreement with Evergy

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Apex Clean Energy today announced a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Evergy, Inc. for 155.1 MW of wind power from Apex’s Jayhawk Wind project in Crawford and Bourbon Counties, Kansas. Evergy shared the news of the PPA in a press release along with an announcement that it will reduce carbon output by 80 percent below 2005 levels by 2050.

 

With this milestone for Jayhawk Wind, Kansas is one step closer toward its goal of sourcing 20% of power used in the state from alternative energy sources.

 

Simply stated, a PPA is a long-term agreement to buy the electricity generated by a project. PPAs benefit power purchasers like utilities and the communities in which they are located because:

  • It establishes the price of the power at the time of the agreement, therefore providing a hedge for the power buyer against future energy price fluctuations.
  • It provides stability for the Jayhawk Wind project and its host communities by ensuring the project has a long-term customer for the power the project generates.

Jayhawk Wind will connect into the existing Evergy 161 kV Marmaton to Litchfield transmission line that runs through the project area.

The power generated by Jayhawk Wind will in part supply commercial and industrial customers through Evergy’s green tariff program, Renewables Direct.

According to the Kansas Department of Commerce, the wind energy industry has created new opportunities across the state and particularly in rural communities by already:

  • Creating 12,000 Kansan jobs;
  • Bringing in $12 billion in capital investment; and
  • Generating $28 million in state and local tax payments.

 

 

Bourbon County, Government, Kansas

Evergy Expands Wind Portfolio

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Evergy announces plan to reduce carbon emissions 80 percent,
adds 660 megawatts of wind energy to its portfolio

New wind energy projects expand direct access to renewable energy for Evergy customers

 

TOPEKA, Kan., Jan. 30, 2020 – Evergy, Inc. (NYSE: EVRG) announced today with Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly that it will expand its wind energy portfolio by 660 megawatts, and reduce carbon output by 80 percent below 2005 levels by 2050. Electricity from four new wind energy sites will be used to attract and retain large commercial and industrial customers.

 

Carbon Reduction Plan: More Sustainable and Cost-Effective for Customers

Evergy announced its commitment to achieve an 80 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions below 2005 levels from its fleet of power plants by 2050, which is a commitment consistent with the Paris Climate Accord. By the end of 2020, Evergy will have reached an estimated 40 percent reduction in emissions.

 

Evergy highlighted the key components of a plan to achieve this significant emissions reduction:

  • Retiring all coal power plants in the Evergy fleet at the end of their useful life, which is currently estimated to be between 2040-2050, with the exception of Iatan 2 in Missouri;
  • Continuing to make significant investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency;
  • Operating the Wolf Creek Nuclear Station until its license expires in 2045; and
  • Adding a small amount of natural gas generation, if additional carbon-free generation is not available within the plan’s timeframe.

 

“Reducing carbon emissions and increasing the amount of wind energy on our system benefits our customers by reducing operating costs and by making our operations more environmentally sustainable,” said Terry Bassham, Evergy president and chief executive officer.  “This represents a significant investment in the state of Kansas, helping to create clean energy jobs, and bring additional income for rural communities and school districts. It will also make Kansas more competitive for future economic development and job creation.”

 

“Without question, we are uniquely positioned to be a regional and national leader in the development and expansion of renewable energy,” Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said. “Renewable energy is about far more than a cleaner future – it’s about jobs. It’s about adapting to the economy. It’s about innovation and business growth. We need an energy market that is affordable, efficient and meets the needs of our businesses and communities. I’m pleased to see Evergy commit to more renewable energy and wind production. My administration will continue to work together with stakeholders, consumers, businesses and industries alike. Because at the end of the day, we all will benefit from forward-thinking energy initiatives.”

 

Additional Wind Energy: Creating One of the Largest Wind Fleets in the United States

Evergy will add 660 megawatts of wind to its generation portfolio. This addition will bring the total amount of wind serving Evergy customers to 4,535 megawatts, making Evergy one of the top five wind energy companies in the United States. The energy from these wind farms will be used to support and expand Evergy’s Direct Renewables Program, which allows Kansas companies to access clean wind energy to become more sustainable and reduce the overall cost of energy. Evergy plans to use the additional wind energy as an economic development tool to attract manufacturers and technology companies who are seeking cost-effective, sustainable and carbon-free energy.

 

“With the abundant wind energy in Kansas, Evergy is a natural partner for businesses that want to use affordable renewable energy. Our innovative wind energy programs attract businesses and boost the local economy,” said Bassham. “Our ongoing transformation to cleaner energy sources reduces carbon emissions and provides our customers sustainable, affordable, reliable electricity.”

 

Combined, the four new wind projects bring $180 million economic benefit to the region, including hundreds of construction jobs and dozens of permanent green energy jobs. The projects are:

 

  • Expedition Wind, a 199 MW project being developed by National Renewable Solutions in Marion County, Kan.
  • Flat Ridge 3, an additional 128 MW of wind generation being developed by AEP Renewables near Kingman, Kan.
  • Jayhawk Wind, a 193 MW wind project being developed by Apex Clean Energy in Crawford and Bourbon Counties, Kan., with Evergy purchasing power from 155 MW of the site.
  • Ponderosa Wind, from which Evergy will purchase 178 MW of wind energy from the site being developed by a subsidiary of NextEra Resources, LLC, south of Liberal, Kan., in Oklahoma.

 

“Evergy is a national leader in renewables. In fact, thanks in large part to our wind investments, Kansas now ranks Number One in the nation for per capita wind generation,” Bassham said. “We will continue to grow our renewable energy commitment and provide affordable options to help our customers’ meet their sustainability goals.”

 

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce, Government, Kansas

Day on the Hill Feb. 4

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2020 SEK Day on the Hill
Join us for breakfast and networking with Chambers across SEK, State Legislators, SEK Businesses, and State Officials
2020 SEK Day on the Hill is coming!
All are welcome!
Click here to RSVP to the
Fort Scott Area Chamber.
Breakfast with Legislators
Tuesday, February 4th, 7:30-9:30am
Celtic Fox restaurant
118 SW 8th Ave., #202
Topeka, Kansas
$10 Chamber Members, $15 Others
Network with Chambers across SEK,
State Legislators, SEK Businesses,
and State Officials.
Learn about SEK legislative priorities,
hear from several of our area Legislators
and State Officials on what to expect this Legislative Session.
If you have any current legislative issues you would like to be considered for
addressing at SEK Day on the Hill
please click here to email the Chamber.
Guests can expect to hear from
Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers,
Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz, and Secretary of Commerce David Toland.
Afterward, you are welcome to cross the street to the Capitol to meet individually with legislators, attend the House and Senate Chamber sessions, or attend a Committee meeting. The goal of SEK Inc. and the Chambers of SEK is to ensure that our region
has a strong unified voice in Topeka!
Those attending from SEK usually also gather
the evening before for networking and dinner. If you do RSVP for SEK Day on the Hill,
the Chamber will update you on plans for Monday evening.
For more information, contact the
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566 or by email.
Government, Kansas

Kansas Has Potential Exposure to Chinese Virus

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Message from KDHE Secretary Lee Norman, MD

January 28, 2020

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with our community health partners, is investigating a Person Under Investigation for potential exposure to the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in a Douglas County Kansas resident. Specimens will be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for testing today and KDHE expects to receive results later this week.

 

The patient is not severely ill and is currently in isolation at a hospital as a precaution. The patient returned to the U.S. within the last two weeks after traveling from Wuhan City, China, where an outbreak of 2019-nCoV has been underway since December 2019. The patient became symptomatic in recent days and sought healthcare Monday.

 

While we have not confirmed this as a case of the 2019 novel coronavirus, we believe it is important to keep the public informed and educated on this new virus. Please know that there are a number of details we are unable to share to keep this individual’s privacy.

 

KDHE is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), LMH Health and the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department to identify and contact all of those who may have come into contact with the individual so that we can begin monitoring them for fever and respiratory symptoms, should this be a confirmed case.

 

The 2019 novel coronavirus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms are thought to appear within two to 14 days after exposure and consist of fever, cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing. Those considered at risk for contracting the virus are individuals with travel to Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China, or individuals in close contact with a person infected with the 2019 novel coronavirus.

We are also advising residents that flu and other respiratory diseases are circulating in our state and are recommending everyone get a flu shot and follow basic prevention guidelines.

Standard recommendations to prevent infection spread include regular hand washing, covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and staying home when sick.

 

The best ways to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses are to:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

If you have recently traveled to Wuhan, China and have developed fever with respiratory symptoms within 14 days of your travel or have had contact with someone who is suspected to have 2019 Novel Coronavirus, stay home and call your healthcare provider. You may also call the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 1-877-427-7317 if you believe you may have been affected.

Government, Kansas

Gov. Reorganizes Energy Office

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Governor Kelly Announces Reorganization of Energy Office

Division to be moved out of the Kansas Corporation Commission

 

Governor Laura Kelly today announced her intent to submit an executive reorganization order (ERO) to the Kansas Legislature, moving the Energy Office out of the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) and into a separate, independent entity. This reorganization will preserve the Energy Office’s existing programs in the KCC, while expanding its scope to include energy planning, policy development and stakeholder outreach.

 

“The first step toward a comprehensive state energy plan is building an infrastructure for energy policy discussions. That means building an independent Energy Office that is focused on implementing an inclusive, data-driven vision for the energy future of our State,” Kelly said. “I am excited to announce this important step in building an energy market that is affordable, efficient and meets the needs of our businesses and communities.”

 

Governor Kelly is committed to unlocking the potential of Kansas’ diverse energy landscape. This reorganization order will build on Kansas’ nation-leading successes in renewable energy development and energy efficiency, while charting the path for a sustainable and balanced energy future.

 

Governor Kelly’s office will release more details on the Energy Office in the coming months.

 

Governor Kelly will submit the ERO to the Legislature within the first 30 days of session. The ERO will become effective on July 1, following its transmittal to the Legislature, unless either the Senate or the House take action on the ERO within 60 calendar days of submission.

 

Government, Kansas

Newsletter of Senator Richard Hilderbrand

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January 24, 2020 ∙ Week Two
HARD FACTS
Value Them Both suggested language:
·      The Value Them Both Constitutional Amendment was introduced by a coalition of several pro-life organizations including the Family Policy Alliance of Kansas, the Kansas Catholic Conference, Concerned Women for America of Kansas and Kansans for Life.
·      Value Them Both was crafted to restore to the people of Kansas, through their elected officials, the ability to halt what could soon be an unlimited abortion industry.
·      Value Them Both lets the people regulate abortion through their elected officials. It is not a ban.
·      Because of a 2019 Kansas Supreme Court ruling, broadly supported regulations like late-term abortion and taxpayer funded abortion, parental notification requirements and clinic safety standards could be struck down.
·      Unlimited and unregulated abortion hurt women and babies.
·      Value Them Both respects laws already adopted by Kansans such as a ban on late-term dismemberment abortions and informed consent. Every woman has a right to basic health and safety standards.
Industrial Hemp
·      The state of Kansas issued 213 grower licenses for industrial hemp in growing season 2019. Of those growers, 190 were active growers and actually attempted to grow and harvest hemp.
o  Seed availability, seedling availability, and adverse weather conditions prevented some growers from carrying out their research projects.
·      68 Kansas counties had growers authorized to participate in the research phase of the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s industrial hemp plan.
·      For growing season 2020, the KDA has received 276 grower license applications.
o  Of those applications, 40% came from growers who did not participate in the program last growing season.
Rural Prosperity
·      There are 8 state agencies and 4 federal agencies that deal with housing in Kansas.
·      According to Lt. Gov. Lynn Rogers, the nationwide demand for new homes is about 1.5 million per year, yet only about 1.25 million new homes are built each year.
o  This number of new homes being built is substantially smaller in rural areas.
Next week we celebrate Kansas Day. On January 29, 1861, Kansas became the 34th state. Explore the state’s early history with the Kansas History, 1854-1865 database from the State Library, which covers the Territorial period through the Civil War. Find a wide variety of personal narratives, letters, maps, speeches, and photos. Use Browse A-Z to scroll through the topics or click on one of five broad categories for an overview of the early Kansas years. Educators: each of the five categories includes an essay and ends with corresponding primary source documents. View this resource at https://kslib.info/kshistory .
FLOOR ACTION
(SB 45) PASSED THE SENATE (Vote 36-1) January 23, 2020(I voted in favor of this bill): INCREASED PENALTIES FOR SERIOUS OFFENSES TO PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEES:
Senate bill 45 would raise the criminal severity level for involuntary manslaughter to level 2 penalty when the victim is a public safety sector employee. It would also raise the criminal severity level for aggravated battery to a level 3 penalty when the victim is a public safety sector employee. The severity levels were also increased for knowingly and purposefully causing great bodily harm or disfigurement via the following: by driving under the influence, by use of a deadly weapon, or by committing a DUI offense where the bodily harm can result in disfigurement or death.
The bill defines “Public Safety Sector Employee” as any individual employed by or volunteering for any law enforcement office, sheriff’s department, municipal fire department, volunteer and non-volunteer fire protection association, emergency management, EMS, or public works department while engaged in official duties.
KANSAS SUPREME COURT DISMISSES LAWSUIT FILED BY JUDGES
This week the Kansas Supreme Court dismissed the lawsuit over funding and pay raises for the state’s court system filed by six trial-court judges. Here is a link to Chief Justice Marla Luckert’s written decision. (If you can not access the link, copy and paste this address into your browser: http://www.kscourts.org/Kansas-Courts/General-Information/2020-News-Releases/012220b.pdf)
Legislators last year approved a $149 million annual budget for the court system, but the Supreme Court is pushing for an increase of $18 million, or 12%.
Attorney General Derek Schmidt issued a statement to the press saying, “The court should no more decide the size of its own budget than the Legislature should decide the constitutionality of the laws it enacts.”
The district judges named on the lawsuit included Robert Frederick of Finney County in southwest Kansas; Steven Hornbaker of Geary County in northeast Kansas; Michael Powers in Marion County in central Kansas; and Merlin Wheeler of Lyon County in eastern Kansas. Frederick, Powers and Wheeler are the chief administrative judges in their judicial districts. Two other judges involved in the lawsuit were identified only as John Doe #1 and John Doe #2.
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO PROTECT LIFE
The Value Them Both Amendment to the Constitution was introduced in both the House and Senate on Thursday, January 16th. Both SCR 1613 and HCR 5019 have been passed out of their respective committees as of January 22nd, Fed and State Affairs in the House and Judiciary in the Senate. Floor debate is set to begin in earnest next week, with both the Senate and House seeking to pass the measure quickly.
Senate testimony in support of the amendment underlined the importance of rolling back a supposed right to abortion and its accompanying strict scrutiny requirement in order to protect reasonable regulation of the abortion industry, especially laws protecting parental consent, clinical cleanliness and licensing standards as well as informed consent for every patient.
Opponents of the amendment essentially argued this amendment was a prelude to a full ban, seeking to incite public outcry because the Amendment does not allow Kansas to over-rule federal law.
Passage of this amendment through the Senate will reinstate the right role of the Legislature to regulate this industry like any other. The Value Them Both Amendment seeks to protect both mother and child and it takes the question of who should represent them back to the people.
RALLY FOR LIFE
This year’s annual Rally for Life came at a perfect time to promote the proposed Value Them Both Constitutional Amendment.  The rally has taken place every year since the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision was made 47 years ago on January 22nd, which granted women the right to an abortion. On Wednesday, pro-life groups made their voices heard in opposition.
It brings together pro-life Kansas lawmakers and groups from across the state to discuss what they can do to impact the current laws on abortion. Representatives Susan Humphries and Susan Concannon took to the podium along with Senate President Susan Wagle who said, “We’re here to protect life at the beginning of life, at the end of life, when life is vulnerable, when a person is disabled. We go out of our way to care for others because they are created in the image of God.”
Jeanne Gawden, from Kansans for Life, read breaking news from President Trump who declared January 22nd ‘National Sanctity of Human Life Day.’
MEDICAID EXPANSION
The Public Health and Welfare Committee began hearing testimony on SB 252. Those in favor of expanding Medicaid argued the bill should pass, as is, without work requirements or conscientious objections provisions. Under the Denning-Kelly plan, Kansans in the coverage gap ages 19-64 who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level would be eligible for Medicaid, which is now only available to the elderly, children, and those who are disabled and don’t have the option to work.
In his testimony in favor of SB 252, Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning explained the Pathway to Work provision that was also a provision in the draft rs1873 bill presented in the Senate Select Committee on Healthcare Access. The federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) law prohibits any work requirement provisions that can impact enrollment up to 138% of the federal poverty level. That means it is illegal to modify enrollment to exclude any Kansan between the ages of 19-64 with income up to 138% of FPL when expanding Medicaid. It is known that many states are proposing a work requirement, however, right now there is not a single state that has a functioning work requirement for Medicaid eligibility. Either the work requirement has been denied by CMS, struck down by the courts, and/or has been deemed too expensive by states to implement. This is why the Senate Select Committee proposed and believed a pathway to employment was the best approach at this time over a hard count work requirement.
Senator Gene Suellentrop chairs the committee which also heard from the Kansas budget director, Larry Campbell, who testified that the new estimated costs of expansion would be $40.32 million in the first full year of implementation and $37.1 million in the second year. That includes a $35 million cost each year for a newly proposed “reinsurance” program which would subsidize rates in the private health insurance marketplace and add an estimated 120 new employees to The Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
Senator Molly Baumgardner questioned the Kansas Hospital Association’s CEO, Tom Bell, about the finances of struggling hospitals which, expansion supporters say, need the influx of state and federal dollars to survive. Baumgardner asked Bell how expansion can help hospitals which only treat one or two patients per day. While Bell admitted he never promised Medicaid expansion alone would save rural hospitals, Senator Baumgardner reminded the group that claim has been a large part of the pro-expansion conversation and was a well-publicized element of Laura Kelly’s gubernatorial campaign.
Testimony continues next week. Chairman Suellentrop said he didn’t know when the committee will take action on the bill but that it will not happen next week.
2019 REPORT ON RURAL PROSPERITY
Lt. Gov. Lynn Rogers gave a report to the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources on the findings of his Rural Prosperity Listening Tour this week. The tour took the Lt. Governor to 44 towns in 23 counties, where he spoke with Kansans at 16 manufacturers, 12 farms and agricultural facilities, 9 hospitals or healthcare facilities and more than 130 other meetings and events.
Lt. Governor Rogers reported that the newly created Office of Rural Prosperity will begin focusing on three primary areas of improvement based on the findings during the Listening Tour: Housing, Childcare, and Workforce Recruitment, Retention and Education. Other priorities identified by Kansans include removing roadblocks to prosperity such as lack of quality roads and bridges, state rules and regulations, lack of quality, affordable broadband and taxes in general (particularly property taxes).
INDUSTRIAL HEMP REPORT
Jeff Vogel, Kansas Department of Agriculture, briefed the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources on the progress being made by farmers and growers in the state who have decided to produce industrial hemp. These growers are allowed to do so through the passage of Senate Substitute for HB2167 during the 2019 legislative session.
Vogel reports that the first year of the industrial hemp program’s research phase was a positive one overall, with 190 active growers in the state, 20 active distributors, 35 active processors, and 9 universities participating in the program. Vogel expects the KDA to have the state’s commercial program rules and regulations prepared for submission to the U.S. Department of Agriculture as early as next week.
Once the rules and regulations are approved by the USDA, the state will begin accepting licensure applications for a commercial industrial hemp program, which means growers could begin planting industrial hemp as early as the 2020 growing season. However, Vogel cautioned that the USDA approval process can often be slow and cumbersome, so growers should not get their hopes up in terms of being able to participate in a commercial program this growing season.
2020 PASSENGER RAIL MEETING
Senator McGinn hosted a packed meeting Wednesday regarding Kansas’s need to invest in passenger rail. The meeting included Kansas legislators, out-of-state officials with interest in rail, an Amtrak official and a Kansas Department of Transportation official.
This is the third meeting Senator McGinn has hosted, and the meetings seem to grow every year. Senator McGinn explained, “People nowadays want to be working on their computers. They want to be doing their business while they’re traveling, so this gives them an opportunity to do that.”
One proposal suggested bringing a passenger rail station to Wichita. Currently, the closest passenger rail station is in Newton. Officials hope to connect two of the Midwest’s largest cities, Wichita and Oklahoma City, by building a new station in Wichita.
When KDOT releases its next ten-year transportation plan, supporters are hoping passenger rail gets a greater focus than in years past.
AT RISK FUNDING REPORT
This week the Senate Education committee heard from Legislative Post Audit regarding the use of at-risk student funding. This hearing drew attention to the fact that the vast majority of “at-risk” funding was used to pay teacher salaries, not on targeted programs that address needs of at-risk populations above and beyond regular classroom learning. It also became apparent that school districts had a somewhat uncritical approach to evaluating the legal requirement that this special funding be funneled into “evidence-based” approaches.
As the Legislature has now met court-mandated levels of funding, the assurances set in place for the effective use of these at-risk funds seems to have failed in their intended purpose. The Education committee plans to continue digging deeper into these new findings.
SUMMARY:
Summary:
Medicaid Expansion and the Value Them Both Amendment should continue to lead the news this week.
Monday, January 27
Ø Hearing: SB258 — Removing the requirement that certain entities submit certain reports to the division of post audit (10:30, Ways and Means, 548-S)
Ø Hearing: SB244 — Administrative rules and regulations shall sunset five years after adoption unless extension is approved by the legislature (10:30, Ways and Means, 548-S)
Ø Briefing: Kansas Universities and Colleges by the Numbers (1:30, Education, 144-S)
Tuesday, January 28
Ø Hearing continuation: SB252 — Expanding medical assistance eligibility and implementing a health insurance plan reinsurance program (9:30, Public Health and Welfare, 118-N)
Ø Hearing: SB256 — Repealing certain statutes regarding elections that pertain to the presidential preference primary; certain election-related contributions by corporations (9:30, Ethics, Elections and Local Government, 142-S)
Ø Hearing: SB257 — Amending and repealing reapportionment census data laws to conform with 2019 amendments to the Kansas constitution, and to remove certain obsolete provisions (9:30, Ethics, Elections and Local Government, 142-S)
Ø Hearing: SB250 — Amending the definition of “race” in the Kansas act against discrimination to include traits historically associated with race, including hair texture and protective hairstyles (10:30, Federal and State Affairs, 144-S)
Ø Hearing: SB269 — Increasing the mandatory retirement age for judges to 80 years of age (10:30, Judiciary, 346-S)
Ø Hearing: SB126 — Exemption from income tax for certain public utilities (1:30, Utilities, 548-S)
Wednesday, January 29 (Happy Kansas Day!)
Ø Hearing continuation: SB252 — Expanding medical assistance eligibility and implementing a health insurance plan reinsurance program (9:30, Public Health and Welfare, 118-N)
Ø Hearing: SB149 — Facilitating voter registration by providing certificates of birth for applicants to evidence citizenship upon their consent (9:30, Ethics, Elections and Local Government, 142-S)
Ø Hearing: SB283 — Authorizing sports wagering under the Kansas expanded lottery act (10:30, Federal and State Affairs, 144-S)
Thursday, January 30
Ø Hearing continuation: SB252 — Expanding medical assistance eligibility and implementing a health insurance plan reinsurance program (9:30, Public Health and Welfare, 118-N)
Ø Hearing: SB254 — Concerning requirements of publication of certain documents by the secretary of state; relating to session laws, the Kansas register, proposed amendments to the constitution of the state of Kansas, and Kansas administrative rules and regulations and guidance documents (10:30, Federal and State Affairs, 144-S)
Ø Hearing: SB253 — Amending requirements for service of process on nonresident drivers and clarifying service of process on certain business entities (10:30, Judiciary, 346-S)
Ø Hearing: SB293 — Transferring duties concerning registration for charitable organizations and the address confidentiality program (safe at home) from the secretary of state to the attorney general and removing the authority of the secretary of state to prosecute election crimes (10:30, Judiciary, 346-S)
Ø Hearing: SB255 — Appropriations to the University of Kansas Medical Center; creating the Cancer Research and Public Information Trust Fund (10:30, Ways and Means, 548-S)
Ø Hearing: SCR1601 — Constitutional amendment eliminating transfers from the state highway fund (10:30, Ways and Means, 548-S)
Friday, January 31 (Pro Forma)
Ø GOP State Convention begins (2 pm, Embassy Suites by Hilton Kansas City Olathe)
Thank You for Engaging
Thank you for all your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. Constituent correspondence helps inform my decision-making process and is taken into great consideration when I cast my vote in the Kansas Senate. I hope you’ll continue to engage with me on the issues that matter most to you, your family, and our community. If you are on Twitter or Facebook, I encourage you to follow along with the #ksleg hashtag for real-time updates on legislative happenings in Topeka.
Please know that I am fully committed to addressing the current issues in our state, and I am proud to be your voice in the Kansas Senate.
Government, Kansas

Governor’s Council on Tax Reform releases interim report

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The Governor’s Council on Tax Reform has released its interim report for consideration by the Kansas Legislature, following months of meetings by the Council.

 

Last year, Governor Laura Kelly issued Executive Order No. 19-11 establishing the bipartisan Governor’s Council on Tax Reform.

 

Governor Kelly directed the Council to assess the state’s tax system, explore strategies to increase both effectiveness and fairness, receive input from stakeholders across the state, and submit an initial report with assessments and recommendations.

 

The Council submitted its recommendations in December and has now released the full interim report, which includes details on those proposals.  

 

Among notable recommendations are a food sales tax rebate targeted toward Kansans who need it most, and a return to implementation of the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund (LAVTRF) as a way to help local governments keep their property taxes low.

 

“I tasked the Council with an in-depth study of our tax structure,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I am pleased with the diligent work the Council has done to research the current tax and budget situation in Kansas, and make sound recommendations that would return the state to a balanced approach of sales, income and property taxes. There’s a need for tax reform designed with adequacy, equity and stability in mind, and I welcome the Legislature’s consideration of the Council’s recommendations.”

 

The Council will continue working throughout 2020 and submit its final report prior to the start of the 2021 legislative session.

 

To access the full report, please visit: https://governor.kansas.gov/governors-council-on-tax-reform-report/