Category Archives: Government

U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt Newsletter

Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

 

 

As we move beyond this year’s tax filing deadline, new data shows that millions of Americans are benefiting from President Trump’s tax relief measures.

 

According to the White House, more than 30 million senior citizens claimed a special deduction, averaging over $7,500 per household.

 

In total, over 53 million Americans (45% of all filers) have taken advantage of at least one of the new tax cuts introduced under Donald Trump. About six million filers used the “No Tax on Tips” provision, while more than 25 million claimed the “No Tax on Overtime” provision, averaging around $3,100 in deductions.

Did you benefit from the new tax deductions for seniors, tips or overtime?
Yes
No
Taking this survey will sign you up for future news and updates from our office.

Sincerely,

Rep. Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress

Washington D.C. Office
1223 Longworth

House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Topeka Office

3550 SW 5th St.

Suite B

Topeka, KS 66606

Pittsburg Office

402 North Broadway St.

Suite B

Pittsburg, KS  66762

KS Works To Improve High-Speed Internet Infrastructure

Office of Broadband Announces $16.3 Million in New Grant Funding

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $16.3 million is available to improve broadband infrastructure through the Broadband Acceleration Grant (BAG) program. The program is designed to offset high costs that are required for building networks in places where distance and low population density make private investment difficult to attain.

“High-speed internet is an industry standard and should be available for use on a daily basis by individuals and businesses alike,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The BAG program supports the prosperous future we’re building for all Kansas residents which includes having reliable and affordable access to broadband infrastructure, regardless of zip code.”

In its sixth year, through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant program aims to provide high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing unserved areas, economically distressed communities and areas of compelling need.

“Broadband directly affects every industry and every person — and that’s why KDOT is an essential partner of this grant program and why we are committed to bringing broadband access to all of Kansas,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “Working together, across agencies, we share the sentiment that this program is working to help our local leaders overcome challenges and make important infrastructure improvements that benefit communities and the state.”

Since the program was launched, Kansas has invested $31.3 million in broadband grants to communities and businesses across the state. Over the last five years, high-speed internet has been delivered to more than 12,000 homes and businesses in 37 counties. The effort leverages an additional $38 million in matching funds.

“The BAG program is more than just another grant opportunity — these grants are investments in people and places,” Director of Broadband Development Bill Abston said. “Strong infrastructure in Kansas — and specifically rural parts — help us remain a viable, competitive and connected place for new families and businesses — today and for future generations.”

The grant application period will begin at 3:00 p.m. Monday, April 27, and remain open until 5:00 p.m. Friday, June 12. To apply for the Broadband Acceleration Grant program, click here.

The Office of Broadband Development will host a kickoff webinar at 1:00 p.m. Monday, April 27. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Office of Broadband Development:

Established in 2020 by Governor Laura Kelly through Executive Order, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) is committed to ensuring all Kansans have the opportunity to live, work, learn and compete in a digital economy. KOBD accomplishes this by administering state and federal funding to support critical broadband infrastructure and expand access to high-speed internet. These efforts help enhance workforce readiness, education, digital opportunities and economic development across the state.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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FSCC Trustees Press Releases for April 17, April 20 Meetings

April 17 Meeting

Members of the Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees met at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, for a board workshop at the Ellis Fine Arts Building.

Chair Doug Ropp called the meeting to order.

Emily Franks with Jarred, Gilmore and Phillips, PA, presented the 2024–2025 final audit.

Dr. Larry Guerrero, Vice President of Academic Affairs, reported that he had received word from the state that Certificate A and Certificate C have been accepted as presented.

President Dr. Jack Welch provided an update on the number of projected graduates for the current school year, along with an update on student headcount. He emphasized that when Fort Scott Community College grows, Fort Scott grows, and that the college serves as a driver of economic opportunity for the community.

Vanessa Poyner, Vice President of Student Affairs, shared information regarding the upcoming Outstanding Student Receptions held in conjunction with graduation. She also noted a new service award for faculty and staff who have made a significant impact on students, based on student feedback, to be presented at the end-of-year luncheon.

Athletic Director Dave Weimer invited the board to the upcoming golf tournament and noted that the Hall of Fame ceremony will be held on May 2.

Courtney Metcalf, Registrar, discussed graduation procedures for board members. As part of the board’s review of the April 20 consent agenda items, topics included board goals, updates on the FRAME grant, a proposed 4.5-day work week, board policies, a food service contract, tuition and fees, and a professional services agreement with USD 234. No action was taken.

Board members also participated in governance training related to KOMA and executive sessions to strengthen understanding and preparedness in those areas.

Chair Ropp adjourned the meeting at 1:41 p.m.

April 20 Meeting

Members of the Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, for their regular board meeting at the Ellis Fine Arts Building.

Chair Doug Ropp called the meeting to order.

The Board approved the official agenda with the removal of Item 8.5 Heavy Equipment Operator equipment purchases.

The Board approved the consent agenda as follows:

  • Board Minutes
    • March 12, 2026, Board of Trustees Special Meeting
    • March 13, 2026, Board of Trustees Meeting
    • April 06, 2026, Board of Trustees Special Meeting
  • Financials – Cash Flow Report
  • Check Register – $738,222.98
  • Payroll
    • March 13, 2026 – $731,953.65
    • April 15, 2026 – $707,707.76
  • Contract Ratification
    • Nevada Baseball Club, Inc.
    • Vector Solutions
    • STARS (finalized)

The Board approved the following items:

  • Board Goals
  • 2026–2027 food service contract with Great Western Dining
  • Tuition and Fees for the 2026–2027 academic year
  • Professional Services Agreement with USD 234
  • Personnel Report (as follows)

The Ag and President Ambassadors presented to the Board on their programs.  Track, Softball, Baseball coaches and their athletes were recognized for their programs.

Trustee Rhonda Bailey reported on Greenbush and shared information from the KACCT meeting.

Chair Ropp adjourned the meeting at 6:39 p.m.

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED EMPLOYMENT

APRIL 20, 2026

 

EMPLOYMENT

  • Lindsay Hill – Board Clerk, effective 05/01/26

 

RESIGNATION/RETIREMENT

  • Resignation – Seth Cross, HEP Grant, effective 04/17/2026
  • Resignation – Matt Glover, Men’s Basketball Coach, effective 05/15/26
  • Resignation – Chris Goddard, Band Faculty, effective 06/03/26
  • Resignation – Gina Shelton, Board Clerk, effective 04/30/26
  • Resignation – Devon Turner, Choir Faculty, effective 06/03/26
  • Retirement – Allen Twitchell, Theater Faculty, effective 05/31/26

 

NON-RENEWAL

  • Non-Renewal – Thomas Cunningham, Harley-Davidson Faculty, 2026-27

 

ADDITIONAL POSITIONS

  • Athletic Trainer Position
  • Performance Director Position

 

 

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter


April 20, 2026

Hello,

Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.

Visiting Kansas Communities Impacted by Tornados

On Monday night, three confirmed tornados touched down and caused severe damage across areas of northeast Kansas. While the storms caused significant physical damage to homes and buildings, thankfully there were no lives lost and few reported injuries. I traveled to Hillsdale on Friday morning to assess the damage and speak with folks in the area about how the federal government can assist them in rebuilding. I walked through the community with Kansas State Rep. Chip VanHouden, State Sen. Doug Shane, Miami County Sheriff Frank Kelly and Miami County Commissioners George Pretz and Tyler Vaughan, and they provided an update on the ongoing relief efforts and how the community is coming together to clean up and rebuild following this devastating storm.

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Later on Friday, I also traveled to Ottawa, where I saw the damage caused by the storm and met with community leaders and residents at Ottawa City Hall who came out to lend a hand to their fellow Kansans. I also appreciated speaking with Kansas State Rep. Rebecca Schmoe, County Commissioner Sabrina Meador, City Commissioner Mike Skidmore, City Manager Thatcher Moddie, Mayor Zach Clayton, Ottawa Chief of Police Adam Weingartner, Ottawa Police Department Lt. Brian Luft and his wife, Jessica, and Ottawa Public Schools teacher Jason Circle to discuss the work ahead and how I can support these efforts.

I want to thank the many volunteers and first responders across our state that are continuing to aid their fellow Kansans during this difficult time. I will continue to work closely with state and local leaders to make certain residents receive the resources and support necessary to recover.

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Chairing Joint Hearing on FIFA World Cup 2026 Security Preparations
On Wednesday, in my role as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I led a joint hearing with Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) to examine federal security preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026. We heard from officials at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the FBI and the Department of Commerce on coordination efforts to protect the safety of fans, athletes and host communities. The World Cup presents an important opportunity to demonstrate the strength of our federal, state and local partnerships and to showcase the U.S. on the world stage, but the success of the event will depend on strong coordination across all levels of government.

Over the past two years, I have worked to make certain Kansas is prepared for this global event. In 2024, I led a bipartisan effort calling on the administration to establish a White House Task Force to coordinate federal planning for the World Cup. I also helped secure $59.5 million for the Kansas City region through the Reconciliation Bill to assist state and local partners with World Cup-related safety and security costs. In March, I also requested an update from DHS on federal planning efforts and coordination with host cities. I will continue working with federal agencies and local partners to make certain Kansas is ready to safely and successfully welcome visitors from around the world.

You can watch my opening remarks here and learn more about efforts to prepare for a safe and successful World Cup here.

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Leading a Hearing on Supporting Justice-Involved Veterans
On Wednesday afternoon, I led a Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing with veterans from Kansas, advocates from the Veterans Justice Commission and All Rise, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) about federal, state and local programs for justice-involved veterans. We also discussed the importance of Veteran Treatment Courts (VTC) and the DOJ’s plans to establish a National Center for Veterans Justice. During the hearing, we heard from three Kansans: former Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Lawton Nuss, U.S. Army Major General (Ret.) Clyde “Butch” Tate and U.S. Army veteran Corey Schramm from Gardner.

The core premise of VTCs is that many justice-involved veterans are better served by an accountability-and-treatment model, particularly where military service, trauma, PTSD, substance use or related conditions are contributing factors. Since the Johnson County Veterans Treatment Court opened in 2016, five more VTCs have opened across Kansas. Corey Schramm graduated from the Johnson County VTC in 2022, and he shared his story at the hearing. He testified that “behind every statistic is a veteran like myself, who struggled and who, with the right combination of support, can find their way back.” Since his graduation from the VTC, Corey has earned an associate’s degree in addiction counseling, and he now works as an adult care manager at the Johnson County Mental Health Center.

Corey and the other witnesses at this hearing provided clear examples of why Congress works to support veterans as they transition out of the military, and they highlighted the value that veterans bring to our communities and country. In January, Congress passed my legislation to fully fund Veterans Treatment Courts, including $4 million for the DOJ to establish a National Center for Veterans Justice. These investments reflect a welcome focus on justice-involved veterans, not only in Kansas but across the country.

Learn more about VTCs and watch my questioning of the witnesses here.

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Update on U.S. Military Operation in Iran

While the two-week ceasefire with Iran continues to be largely upheld, it is due to expire in the coming days unless it is extended. The situation remains tense with the United States Navy maintaining a blockade of Iranian-related shipping in and out of the Persian Gulf, and Iran has reversed its announcement of permitting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, the Strait effectively remains closed, impacting oil supplies and other goods. Last week I followed up on my floor remarks in March to once more urge the White House to resume sanctions on Russian oil, and I believe the decision to renew the sanctions waiver for another month goes against our national interests and does little to ease pressure on American consumers.

Instead of ineffective waivers, prices will depend on a resolution in the Persian Gulf. I continue to call on the administration to provide Congress and the American people with an update on where the conflict currently stands and what the strategy is to reach a successful conclusion. It is my hope that offensive operations can be concluded before the end of the month and our troops begin returning home.

You can read more about this from Bloomberg Government here.

Introducing Kansas Federal Judicial Nominees During Committee Hearing

This week, I had the opportunity to introduce three highly qualified Kansans: Jeffrey Kuhlman, The Honorable Anthony Powell and Tony Mattivi, during their nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee regarding their appointments to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. Each of these nominees brings a strong record of public service, legal experience and integrity, and I was grateful to offer my support for their nominations. Jeffrey Kuhlman brings extensive experience in private practice and previously served as a federal judicial law clerk in Kansas. Hon. Anthony Powell has served Kansans for decades, including as Kansas Solicitor General, a judge in the Eighteenth Judicial District and on the Kansas Court of Appeals. Tony Mattivi most recently led the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and previously served as a federal prosecutor, handling complex and high-profile cases. Following a thorough review process earlier this year where I met with many qualified candidates, I was pleased to support their nominations and will continue working with my colleagues as the Senate considers them for confirmation.

You can watch my introduction of the nominees here.

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PASSED: Committee Approves Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Airport Security

On Tuesday, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation passed my legislation, the SAFEGUARDS Act. For more than a decade, the $5.60 9/11 security fee that passengers pay when they purchase an airline ticket has been diverted to non-security purposes. My legislation would make certain this security fee is returned to its original intent of investing in new technology to help bolster the safety and efficiency of U.S. air travel. I look forward to the passage of this important aviation safety legislation by the full Senate.

You can learn more about my legislation from KSN here.

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Now Accepting 2026 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2031. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on September 18, 2026. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.

Honored to Serve You in Washington
It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.

Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.

Very truly yours,

Jerry

 

To unsubscribe from this newsletter, please click here.

Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
Manhattan
1880 Kimball Avenue,
Suite 270
Manhattan, KS 66052
Phone: (785) 539-8973
Fax: (785) 587-0789
Olathe
23600 College Blvd.,
Suite 201
P.O. Box 1154
Olathe, KS 66061
Phone: (913) 393-0711
Fax: (913) 768-1366
Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building
Room 521
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-6521
Fax: (202) 228-6966
Wichita
100 North Broadway,
Suite 210
Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: (316) 269-9257
Fax: (316) 269-9259

Garden City
312 N. 8th Street, Suite B
Garden City, KS 67846
Phone: (620) 260-3025

Pittsburg
306 N. Broadway, Suite 125 (rear entrance of bank)
P.O. Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
Phone: (620) 232-2286
Fax: (620) 232-2284

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KS Youtube Wildfire Risk and Utility Readiness workshop is April 24

TOPEKA – A virtual workshop on Wildfire Risk and Utility Readiness will be hosted by the Kansas Corporation Commission on Friday, April 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

House Bill 2107, passed by the Kansas Legislature during its 2025 session, requires the KCC to hold a workshop addressing the topics of general wildfire risk, mitigation strategies, wildfire emergency response, and managing cost recovery.

This comes at a time when, according to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, wildfires are increasing in frequency, destructiveness, and cost. Wildfire-driven financial risks affect all types of electric utilities, including investor-owned, cooperative, and public.

The virtual workshop will feature a series of presentations from national and local experts, each followed by a Q&A session and discussion. View the agenda.

The workshop can be accessed on the agency’s YouTube channel. No preregistration is required.

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Boil Order for Water Will Be In Effect For Days

 

Bourbon County with Township designations, from the Bourbon County KS website.

Bourbon County is still under a boil advisory, following the mainline water break in Fort Scott on April 18.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued a boil water advisory for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon County Rural Water District # 2C, and City of Uniontown public water supply systems located in Bourbon County on Saturday.
The city of Fort Scott experienced a mainline water break on Burke Street between Eighth and Ninth Streets at around 4:30 a.m. Saturday, April 18, said Scott Flater, Public Utility Director.
“It wasn’t reported until  6 a.m,” he said.
“I’m collecting water today that will be sent back to the lab,” Flater said.
As soon as the city sends the water sample, it has to incubate for 24 hours. Then the Rural Water District #2 will get notifications to take water samples, to send in to KDHE, which must be incubated for 24 hours as well. Once the samples are cleared, the boil order will be lifted, according to Mark Pollmeir, RWD#2 spokesman.
This advisory does not affect customers of the City of Fulton, nor Bronson, who are both in separate water districts, but does affect all the other small rural towns and rural residents in the county.
City of Uniontown Clerk Haley Arnold said she has put notices up at Union Station (gas station), the Uniontown Post Office,  City Hall, and her personal Facebook page asking others to share the news, to help get the word out about the boil order.
Communicating to residents in rural areas about these events is difficult, and Arnold is open to suggestions for getting the word out, she said.
Lou Howard, Bourbon County Emergency Manager, said she called the local radio station to help get the word out and published it on the Bourbon County website.
Both receiving and delivering communication has been difficult regarding the boil advisory, Howard said.
“While communicating the boil water advisory presented some challenges, we will continue working to improve how important information is shared with the public,” she said.
“Residents can receive emergency alerts and general community information through several sources, including local television and radio stations, wireless cell phone alerts, official websites, and other online resources. Important updates are also often shared through friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers,” Howard said.
“Community members are encouraged to help ensure information reaches everyone. If you know someone who does not regularly use the internet or a cell phone, please consider sharing important alerts and updates with them so they can stay informed and prepared,” she said.
Emergency alerts are transmitted through:
or for this specific boil order for rural residents:
Consolidated RWD2 website to register for their alerts – Home | Consolidated Rural Water Dist. 2.
Jack Ripper, Bourbon County Water District #4, which serves Bronson and the surrounding area, said he had not heard of the boil order for the rest of the county.
“We have our own lake for our water supply,” he said. “So we are not affected at all.”
According to the KDHE notification sent out by the City of Fort Scott on its Facebook page, customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:
1) Boil water for one minute before drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.
2 ) Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.
3) If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.
4) Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.
5 ) Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.
The advisory took effect on April 18, 2026 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.
KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break in the city of Fort Scott’s distribution system, resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination, according to the press release.
The City of Fort Scott water system provides water to Bourbon Co RWD 2C, which distributes water to Bourbon County.
Only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.
For consumer questions, contact the City of Fort Scott water system at 620-223-5160, or Bourbon Co RWD 2C water system at 620-223-1110, or the city of Uniontown water system at 620-756-4742, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:
Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety & lodging program at [email protected] or call 785-564-6767.

KDWP Hosts Meetings On Turkey/Water Fowl

KDWP Office of the Secretary Letterhead


Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to Host Public Meetings on Turkey Seasons and Waterfowl Hunting Regulations

PRATT – The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) will host two public meetings this spring to discuss the possible re-establishment of a fall turkey season and proposed regulations affecting non-resident waterfowl hunting on public lands. Both meetings will include time for questions and public feedback.

“These conversations are an important part of how we manage wildlife and hunting opportunities across Kansas,” said Jake George, KDWP’s wildlife division director. “We want to hear directly from hunters and others who care about these resources as we consider potential changes and make informed decisions moving forward.”

Regulations remain unchanged at this time; any adjustments would require approval by the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission before they are implemented.

Meeting Schedule:

April 22 | 6:00 p.m.
Great Plains Nature Center Auditorium
6232 E. 29th St N
Wichita, KS 67220

May 6 | 6:00 p.m.
Kansas Highway Patrol Training Center (Small Auditorium)
2025 E. Iron Ave
Salina, KS 67401

Attendees at the Salina meeting are asked to park in the lower parking lot. Parking is not permitted in the lot east of the main drive.

These meetings are open to the public, and all interested individuals are encouraged to attend.

Those unable to attend in person may submit comments through the KDWP public comment form at ksoutdoors.gov/contact.

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The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of Kansas’s natural resources for the benefit of both current and future generations. KDWP manages 29 state parks, 177 lakes and wildlife areas, more than 300 public waterbodies, and 5 nature centers. Other services include management of threatened, endangered, and at-risk species, law enforcement, and wildlife habitat programs. For more information about KDWP, visit ksoutdoors.gov.

What is a Certified Local Government (CLG)?

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

Sending on behalf of Platinum Chamber Champion Member

City of Fort Scott

The City was recently designated as a Certified Local Government (CLG) through a partnership with the National Park Service and the State Historic Preservation Office. This designation reflects Fort Scott’s commitment to preserving its historic character while supporting thoughtful growth and development.

What is a Certified Local Government (CLG)?

A Certified Local Government is a city that has met state and federal standards for historic preservation and participates in a larger partnership between local, state, and federal programs.

This designation allows the City to:

  • Participate in preservation planning at the local level
  • Apply for historic preservation grants
  • Provide local review of projects affecting historic properties

Programs like this are designed to help communities protect historic resources while also encouraging economic development and revitalization.

What does this mean for downtown property owners?

For properties located within designated historic districts or individually listed properties, certain exterior changes may require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) before work begins.

This may include:

  • Window and door replacements
  • Exterior materials or siding changes
  • Demolition or new construction
  • Significant exterior alterations

The purpose of this process is to help maintain the historic character of downtown Fort Scott while still allowing property owners to invest in and improve their buildings.

Quick Checklist: Do You Need a COA?

Property owners are encouraged to contact the City before starting work if they answer YES to any of the following:

  • Is the property located in the downtown historic district or individually listed?
  • Are windows, doors, or exterior materials being changed?
  • Is the exterior appearance being altered?
  • Is an addition or new construction planned?
  • Is demolition (partial or full) being considered?

If there is any uncertainty, City staff are available to help determine next steps.

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall Weekly Press Overview, April 13-17, 2026

 

 

 

Senator Marshall Calls for Full Funding of Drug Trafficking Prevention Program

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), released a statement asking the Senate Appropriations Committee to sufficiently fund the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program following the release of President Trump’s FY27 Budget, which calls for a 35% reduction in HIDTA funding, as well as the transfer of the program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy to the Department of Justice.

 

Should this transfer and funding reduction occur, the Midwest HIDTA branch would lose significant resources and its ability to efficiently work with state and local law enforcement offices across Kansas to foster collaboration, share resources, and leverage expertise to keep communities safe. Both consequences would undermine the program’s mission to effectively reduce the impact of drug trafficking in HIDTA classified counties in Kansas: Barton, Cherokee, Crawford, Finney, Franklin, Johnson, Labette, Leavenworth, Miami, Saline, Sedgwick, Seward, Shawnee, and Wyandotte.

 

“With fourteen Kansas counties classified as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, I am determined to make sure our local, state, and federal law enforcement have all the resources they need to protect Kansas families. The HIDTA program is a proven tool that puts resources directly in the hands of local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in our communities,” said Senator Marshall. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to ensure this program has the funding it needs to continue that mission.”

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: Americans Are Keeping More of Their Earnings

 

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), questioned Frank Bisignano, CEO of the Internal Revenue Service, at the Senate Finance Committee. The hearing focused on IRS operations and the 2026 tax filing season.

 

Senator Marshall noted that Mr. Bisignano is a graduate of Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas, and his questions were centered around tax savings Americans are seeing this year, the new no tax on overtime legislation, and the improved efficiency of the IRS.

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall Joins Letter Backing American Ag Under USMCA

Washington – This week, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined a bipartisan letter led by Senators Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer, emphasizing their support of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) ahead of the Agreement’s six-year joint review and urging expanded market access and certainty for American producers.

In the letter, the Senators wrote:

“The United States is currently the world’s largest agricultural exporter, with total agricultural exports valued at $176 billion in 2024. Since the Agreement’s entry into force, U.S. agricultural exports have increased substantially, particularly to Canada and Mexico. 

…American family farmers and ranchers depend on the certainty afforded by a stable Agreement. The integrated supply chains facilitated by streamlined compliance requirements, effective rules governing food safety measures, and intellectual property protections have allowed the U.S. to build a fortified trading network here in the Western Hemisphere.

…As preparations begin for the upcoming joint review process, we encourage continued engagement with Congress, farmers, and ranchers to ensure the agreement is improved to support U.S. agriculture and maintain strong market access for American producers.”

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall Introduces President Trump’s Nominees for U.S. District Courts of Kansas

 

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), introduced Kansas Bureau of Investigation Director Tony Mattivi, Great Bend attorney Jeffrey M. Kuhlman, and Kansas Solicitor General Anthony J. Powell during their nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. The three nominees, selected by President Trump, are being considered to serve as United States District Judges for the District of Kansas.

 

Senator Marshall highlighted the nominees’ strong Kansas roots, integrity, and commitment to public service, while emphasizing the thorough effort behind their selection alongside Senator Moran. He underscored the importance of the federal judiciary and expressed confidence that the nominees will serve Kansans with fairness and distinction.

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: Investing in All of America Act Passes Senate

 

Washington – This week, the U.S. Senate passed the Investing in All of America Act, bipartisan legislation led by Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) and co-sponsored by Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) that would direct more private investment into rural communities, low-income areas, American manufacturing, and critical technology sectors. The bill now heads to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

 

This bill strengthens the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program, which allows private investment firms to combine their own money with SBA-backed funds to invest exclusively in American small businesses. In 2024, SBIC created 9,280 jobs and supported 98 small businesses in Kansas, and in the last two decades it has invested $505.4M in Kansas companies.

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: PBMs Are Squeezing Community Pharmacies Out of Business

 

Washington – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), questioned witnesses Dr. Brian Miller, Associate Professor of Medicine at John Hopkins University, and Dr. Ryan Long, Director of Congressional Relations and Senior Research Fellow at the USC Schaeffer Institute at the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing focused on making medicines more affordable through competition.

 

Senator Marshall’s questioning focused on concerns over the growing financial strain on community pharmacists driven by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and called for meaningful PBM reform to bring down prescription drug costs for patients.

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: Republican Tax Wins Mean More Money for Families This Tax Day

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Senate Republicans, including Finance Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) in a press conference on Tax Day 2026.

The Senators emphasized that this year’s Tax Day looks different for millions of Americans, as families are now able to keep more of their hard-earned income due to the Republican-passed Working Families Tax Cuts. Senator Marshall specifically highlighted provisions he fought for, including no tax on overtime and the 45Z clean fuel production credit.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

Senator Marshall: President Trump Continues to Fight for Our Farmers

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Suzanne Alexander on RFD TV’s Market Day Report to discuss the increased benefits farmers are receiving this tax season, how President Trump has fought for farmers, how international events have affected input prices, and solutions for relief from high production costs.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

Senator Marshall: President Trump is Keeping Americans Safe

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Sharla McBride and Marc Lotter on Newsmax’s Wake Up America to discuss the blockade of Iran and an end to the conflict, President Trump’s work to make the cost of living affordable for Americans, and the Republican plan to fund ICE and DHS.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

Senator Marshall: More Americans are Getting a Tax Refund This Year

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Dave Anthony on The FOX News Rundown to discuss tax refunds being larger this year, the Democrats’ continued shutdown of DHS, how the Iran war is affecting the economy, and more.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

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FSCC Agendas for Today and April 20

FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE

BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING

ELLIS FINE ARTS CENTER

APRIL 17, 2026 – 12:00 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – VICE-CHAIR CHAD MCKINNIS

1.1 Roll Call of Trustees by the Clerk

___Bailey___Brown___Cosens___Hoyt___McKinnis___Ropp

2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION

3.0 PRESENTATION OF 2024-25 AUDIT                    (INFORMATION)

4.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES                  (INFORMATION)

4.1 Academics – Vice President of Academic Affairs – Dr. Larry Guerrero

4.2 Advancement – Dean of Advancement – Lindsay Hill

4.3 Athletics – Athletic Director – Dave Wiemers

4.4 Finance – CFO – Vice President of Finance & Operations – Gina Shelton

4.5 Student Services – Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner

4.6 Administrative Committees – Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner

4.7 Presidential Update – President Dr. Jack Welch

5.0 REVIEW OF APRIL 20TH AGENDA ITEMS           (INFORMATION)

6.0 BOARD PICTURES                                                      (INFORMATION)

7.0 BOARD MEMBER TRAINING                                   (INFORMATION)

8.0 ADJOURN                                                                                       (ACTION)

 

FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE

BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING

ELLIS FINE ARTS CENTER

APRIL 20, 2026 – 5:30 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – CHAIR

2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION

3.0 APPROVAL OF OFFICIAL AGENDA                                    (ACTION)

4.0 APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA                                  (ACTION)

4.1 Minutes

4.2 Financials – Cash Flow Report

4.3  Check Register – $738,222.98

4.4  Payroll

  • March 13, 2026 – $731,953.65
  • April 15, 2026 – $707,707.76

4.5  Contract Ratification

5.0 COMMUNITY, EMPLOYEE, AND STUDENT RECOGNITION                                                                                                      (INFORMATION)

5.1 Program Review – President and Ag Ambassadors

  • Student Ambassadors will present to the board on their programs

5.2 Recognition: Students & Program Update

  • Spring Sports – Coaches & Captains
    • Track
    • Softball
    • Baseball

6.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES                  (INFORMATION)

7.0 OLD BUSINESS

7.1 State of the College address will be: (INFORMATION)

  • May 21st at 12 pm in the Ellis Fine Arts building

7.2 Graduation Information and Discussion                                                                                       (INFORMATION)

7.3 Board Goals                                                                   (ACTION)

7.4 FRAME Grant Update                                 (INFORMATION)

8.0 NEW BUSINESS

8.1 4.5 Work Week Proposal                          (INFORMATION)

8.2 Board Policies                                               (INFORMATION)

8.3 Food Service Contract                                             (ACTION)

8.4 Tuition & Fees                                                               (ACTION)

8.5 Heavy Equipment Operator Equipment Purchases                                                                                                                    (ACTION)

8.6 Consideration of Professional Services Agreement                                                                                                                    (ACTION)

9.0 PUBLIC FORUM

Comments should be restricted to no more than three minutes.  Requests should be submitted by noon on the day of the Board meeting.  Forms will be presented to the Board Chair for consideration.  Matters which are personal in nature or relate to personnel matters will not be heard publicly.

 

 

 

10.0 PERSONNEL

10.1 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters                                                                                                                     (ACTION)

10.2 Exit Executive Session – Return to Open Session                                                                                                                     (ACTION)

10.3 Employment Matters of Non-Elected Personnel                                                                                                                     (ACTION)

10.4 Resolution for Nonrenewal 26-05                    (ACTION)

10.5 Addition of Athletic Trainer Position              (ACTION)

10.6 Addition of Performance Director Position                                                                                                     (ACTION)

11.0 BOARD COMMENTS

11.1 Reports of Board Member Appointments                                                                                                      (INFORMATION)

12.0 ADJOURN                                                                                    (ACTION)