Category Archives: Government

Bourbon County, Government, Schools, Youth

Uniontown Students Standout In Sunpowered Student Challenge

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Submitted photo.

Tennyson Creek Solar, a project by Doral Renewables, is continuing its commitment to local communities with a series of recent donations supporting education, youth programs, and community organizations across Bourbon County.

As part of this effort, Tennyson Creek Solar has contributed to:

  • Uniontown Schools in support of student participation in the SunPowered Student Challenge
  • Fort Scott Community College Rodeo
  • Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site
  • Fort Scott Area Community Foundation

Uniontown students participated in the SunPowered Student Challenge, which is an annual event that brings together students from across Kansas to explore solar energy through hands-on projects and team-based competition. The third annual competition took place on April 8 at Wichita State University.

 

Students participated in wiring, system setup, mounting, collaboration, and presentation challenges throughout the competition. Uniontown teams had a standout performance, bringing home three awards:

  • Uniontown Eagles – First Place, Solar Skills Presentation
  • Uniontown Eagles – Collaborative Award
  • Uniontown Queens – First Place, Curb Appeal

 

“This type of support gives our students opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have,” said Vance Eden, Superintendent of Uniontown Schools. “Participating in the SunPowered Student Challenge allows them to explore real-world applications of science and energy while building teamwork and problem-solving skills.”

Doral Renewables says these contributions reflect its broader mission of investing in the Bourbon County community.

“We’re committed to supporting local organizations through Tennyson Creek Solar,” said Cliff Williams, Vice President of Development at Doral Renewables. “Initiatives like the SunPowered Student Challenge help inspire the next generation of Bourbon County.”

The Tennyson Creek Solar Project, currently under development in Bourbon County, represents Doral Renewables’ ongoing dedication to responsible renewable energy development and meaningful community investment across Kansas.

Submitted photo.

 

Government, Kansas, Youth

Artificial Intelligence Chatbot Risks Announcement

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Kobach warns Kansans of AI chatbot risks in PSA

TOPEKA – (April 14, 2026) – The Kansas Attorney General’s Office today announced that Digital Citizens Alliance has produced and is distributing a new public service announcement (PSA) featuring Attorney General Kris Kobach. The PSA alerts parents and families to the serious risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, particularly to children and teenagers.

“Artificial intelligence is now part of our everyday life. AI chatbots, digital characters that teens talk to, can form emotional connections with young people and shape their thinking, sadly with tragic outcomes,” Kobach warns in the PSA.

In the PSA, Attorney General Kobach stresses that while AI can offer benefits, certain applications—such as chatbots that teens interact with online—can create emotional bonds, influence thinking, and lead to tragic consequences, including encouragement of self-harm or violence.
“I’m committed to holding AI companies legally responsible for their actions and keeping you informed so together we can keep the next generation of Kansans safe,” Kobach said.

Digital Citizens Alliance executive director Tom Galvin said, “As we enter the AI era, General Kobach’s commitment to helping parents understand the risks AI can pose to their children makes Kansas a safer place as we all navigate this new digital world.”

The PSA is part of ongoing efforts by the Attorney General’s Office to protect Kansas families from emerging online threats. The Digital Citizens Alliance is distributing the announcement on digital platforms across Kansas.

About the Digital Citizens Alliance: The Digital Citizens Alliance is a consumer-focused group whose mission is to raise awareness among the public and policymakers about how to make the Internet safer.

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Kansas Attorney General’s Office | 120 SW 10th Ave. | Topeka, KS 66612 US
Government

Water Infrastructure Projects Across KS Are Funded

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USDA Invests More Than $11 Million to Improve Rural Water Infrastructure Across Kansas

 

(Topeka, Kan., April 14, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Kansas State Director Gimmie Jo Jansonius today announced that the agency is investing $11,018,000 to modernize critical water infrastructure in rural communities across Kansas.

“Upgrading the infrastructure for community water systems will improve public health and drive economic development in our small towns and cities,” said Jansonius. “USDA and the Trump Administration are dedicated to rural communities through long-term commitments to economic prosperity; because when rural America prospers, all of America prospers.”

Background:

USDA is making this $11 million investment through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program, which funds vital water infrastructure that directly benefits the health, economic vitality and environment of rural America.

The specifics of these Kansas projects are:

  • A $420,000 grant will help purchase and install standby emergency generators at two critical pumping facilities for the city of Stafford. The generators will make the drinking water and wastewater utilities more resilient during future disasters.
  • A $335,000 grant will help purchase and install Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system upgrades and a standby emergency generator at one water well pumping facility for the city of St. John. The generator and SCADA upgrades will make the drinking water utility more resilient during future disasters.
  • A $78,000 grant will help install standby emergency generators at two water well pumping facilities for the city of Burdett. The pumps will make the drinking water utility more resilient to severe winter storms.
  • A $1,000,000 grant and $3,500,000 loan will help the city of Linn Valley install a water transmission line from the City of La Cygne and distribution lines and meters throughout Linn Valley. Additionally, the city is constructing a 250,000-gallon elevated water storage tank.
  • A $492,000 grant and $618,000 loan will help Riley County upgrade and install approximately 12,000 linear feet of 4-inch and 8-inch collection lines, 43 manhole replacements, 67 septic tank demos, five grinder stations, and surface removal and replacement. It also includes a new lift station, a new wet well, 4-inch sewer force main connection, electrical work, backup generator, discharging lagoon and an irrigation pump station.
  • An $813,000 grant and $3,684,000 loan will assist the city of Mankato with their Phase II Water Project including installation of approximately 22,000 linear feet of water mains, 173 service connections with domestic water meters, 28 fire hydrants, 2-inch commercial water meters, a new water tower and a new chlorination building.
  • A $622,000 grant and $211,000 loan will help the city of Toronto construct approximately 41,000 linear feet of water line pipes. The project will also include 74 gate valves, 28 fire hydrants, 170 water meter assemblies, and interior and exterior coating of the existing water tower.

 

For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making Rural Development’s investment data accessible to the public.

If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit GovDelivery subscriber page.

 

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

 

 

 

Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Hosting NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman in Kansas

During the Artemis II mission, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman made three visits – the Kennedy Space Center, the Johnson Space Center and Kansas! I hosted Administrator Isaacman in Kansas on Monday to visit the Cosmosphere and cut the ribbon on the Hall of Space Museum. We stopped to view the Apollo 13 capsule, which is housed at the Cosmosphere, just hours before the Artemis II astronauts broke the Apollo 13 record for traveling the farthest away from Earth. Administrator Isaacman was able to see firsthand the science demonstrations happening at Dr. Goddard’s Rocket Lab and the unique space artifacts spanning from the space race against the Soviet Union through the Shuttle Program. Thank you to Cosmosphere CEO Jim Remar for the tour and Gerry Griffin, former NASA Flight Director during Apollo and former Johnson Space Center Director, for joining us.

You can watch a recap video of Administrator Isaacman’s visit to the Cosmosphere here.

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From Hutchinson, we traveled to meet with two local aerospace companies that contributed to the construction and success of the Artemis Program – D-J Engineering in Augusta and Globe Engineering Co. in Wichita. There are seven local suppliers in the Wichita area, and 15 across Kansas, that contributed to the success of the Artemis II mission. The administrator also took time to meet with other aerospace suppliers and pilots-in-training at Wichita State University Tech’s National Center for Aviation Training.

The road to space runs through Kansas, and I am grateful to Administrator Isaacman for visiting Kansas. Thank you to D-J Engineering CEO Rezaul Chowdhury and Globe Engineering President Jeff Teague for welcoming Administrator Isaacman to your businesses and Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, Congressman Ron Estes, Greater Wichita Partnership Chief Economic Development Officer Andrew Nave and many others for helping welcome the administrator to Kansas.

You can read more about Administrator Isaacman’s visit to Kansas from The Hutchinson News here and KAKE here.

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Splashdown!
Welcome home, Artemis II! Your journey to the moon was inspiring, captivating, historical and a tremendous achievement for NASA and the United States. Congratulations to the hundreds of men and women who contributed to the success of this mission, from the innovation and ingenuity of the engineers and manufacturers who built the SLS, to the Mission Control flight controllers who worked around the clock to safely guide this mission from launch to splashdown, to the four astronauts who carried with them the hopes and dreams of millions of people, exploring deeper into space than any human being has gone before. This is just the start of an exciting new era of space exploration.

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Participating in Call with Artemis II Astronauts During their Return to Earth
On Thursday evening, I joined a live call with NASA Artemis II astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch, and CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen. As the Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds NASA, I had the opportunity to briefly speak with the four astronauts, invite them to join me at the Cosmosphere, the museum that Reid Wiseman says is the “best space museum in the world,” and ask them how the Artemis II mission will help inspire the next generation. Thank you to these four incredible individuals and the entire Artemis II and NASA teams for the work they do every day to push humanity forward and help us better understand our world.

You can watch my questioning of the Artemis II astronauts here.

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Space Symposium Interagency Roundtable

On Sunday, I participated in a roundtable with NASA, Space Force and industry leaders to discuss the future of space exploration, appropriations and interagency collaboration. In my role leading funding and oversight of NASA, I shared my perspective on the investments needed to reach the moon and Mars. America’s leadership in space isn’t guaranteed – China is quickly advancing its own space program and making significant investments in its goal of beating the U.S. back to the moon. It is critical that the U.S. continues to maintain our global leadership in space exploration, scientific advancement and national security.

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Update on U.S. Military Operation in Iran

After five weeks, the fighting in Iran halted due to the agreement of a two-week ceasefire announced last Tuesday night. The pause permitted the highest level of talks between Iranian leaders and Americans led by Vice President J.D. Vance since 1979. While the talks on Saturday failed to yield a breakthrough in negotiating positions, it appears diplomacy will continue. In the meantime, the United States this week imposed a blockade of Iranian-related shipping through the Persian Gulf in an attempt to squeeze Iran’s energy-based economy.

The decision to waive oil sanctions on Russia and Iran freed up millions of barrels of Russian and Iranian oil, enriching two of our adversaries and further funding their aggression against the U.S., Ukraine and our partners in the Middle East. Now that the waiver on the Russian oil sanctions has expired, it should not be extended. There is little evidence that the waiver produced any significant relief to American consumers during the month it was in effect. However, the waiver has generated billions in revenue for Moscow, sustaining Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine & efforts to undermine the U.S. around the world. Russia is actively working with Iran, providing support that endangers our troops in the region.

Iran continues to reap significant revenue due to its current waiver, providing financial relief to an adversary we are actively fighting. Any additional waivers for Russia or Iran would be against our national interests.

Fort Scott National Historic Site, Government, History

Fort Scott National Historic Site to host Annual Civil War Encampment

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Submitted by NPS

 

 

Fort Scott, Kan. – Fort Scott National Historic Site will host its Annual Civil War Encampment, April 18 and 19, 2026.  Join us each day to experience cavalry, infantry, and artillery troops drilling and preparing for battle in the summer of 1861.

 

Talk to a blacksmith as he brings raw metal to life with his hammer, and speak with volunteers portraying some of the men and women who provided support to the troops and operations during the Civil War. Listen to the Second Hand Strings musical performance, learn about Civil War medicine, bread baking, and challenge your family or friends to tug-o-war and other historic lawn games. The weekend is full of adventure for the whole family straight from the 1800’s!

 

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

  • 9 a.m.                              Raising the Colors (Garrison Flagpole)
  • 9:30 a.m.                        Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 10 a.m.                            Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
  • 10:30 a.m.                     Cavalry Program (next to Stables)
  • 11 a.m.                            Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)
  • 11:30 a.m.                     Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 11:30-1:30 p.m.           Cooking Demonstration (North of Dragoon Barracks)
  • Noon                                Second Hand Strings Musical Performance (Hospital Porch)
  • 1 p.m.                              Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
  • 2 p.m.                              Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 3 p.m.                              Cavalry Program (next to Stables)
  • 4 p.m.                              Flag Retreat (Garrison Flagpole)
  • 4:30 p.m.                        Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

SUNDAY, APRIL 19

  • 9 a.m.                              Raising the Colors (Garrison Flagpole)
  • 9:30 am                           Historic Church Service (Dragoon Barracks)
  • 10 a.m.                            Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
  • 10:30 a.m.                     Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 11 a.m.                            Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)
  • 11:30 a.m.                     Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 1 p.m.                              Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)
  • 1:30 p.m.                        Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 2 p.m.                              Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)
  • 2:30 p.m.                        Cavalry Program (next to Stables)
  • 3:30 p.m.                        Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)
  • 4 p.m.                              Flag Retreat (Garrison Flagpole)
  • 4:30 p.m.                        Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 

 

Fort Scott National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, exhibit areas and visitor center are currently open Friday through Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Park grounds are open daily from a half hour before sunrise until a half hour after sunset. To find out more or become involved in activities at the Fort, please contact the park at 620-223-0310 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/fosc.

 

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About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

 

 

Business, Government, Kansas

Kansas Business Award Is Accepting Nominations

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Commerce Opens Nominations for 2026

To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Kansas Department of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2026 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards. The increasingly popular annual award program recognizes companies and individuals around the state for the positive impact they make on the Kansas economy and on their local communities.

During the event, Commerce also will announce the prestigious Governor’s Award of Excellence, the 2026 Governor’s Exporter of the Year, The Randi Tveitaraas Jack International Business Award and two new inductees of the Kansas Business Hall of Fame. This year’s gala will be held Oct. 8 at the Fiorella’s Event Space in Overland Park.

“Kansas businesses are fueling real economic growth — creating jobs, opening new markets, and building communities worth investing in and calling home,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Our state’s continued economic success isn’t possible without them, and To The Stars is the highlight of my year because it puts a spotlight on the companies and individuals leading the charge. Nominate the businesses that are moving Kansas forward — they’ve earned it.”

Companies, organizations and individuals can be nominated in the following award categories:

  • AgriBusiness – Companies that stand out in the agribusiness industry – including agricultural production, agri-tourism or products and services
  • Apprenticeship Champion – Companies and other entities that excel in providing registered apprenticeship programs in Kansas
  • Business Innovation – Companies from any sector incorporating innovative technologies in their business
  • Healthcare/Nonprofit – Noteworthy services provided by either healthcare facilities or nonprofit organizations
  • Main Street Momentum – Businesses revitalizing main streets or neighborhood commercial districts through growth or engagement
  • Manufacturing/Distribution – Outstanding achievement for companies of all sizes involved in manufacturing and distribution
  • Non-Traditional Talent Pools – Companies that have gone above and beyond to hire those with prior involvement in the justice system, youth, seniors or individuals with disabilities
  • Retail/Service – Exceptional performance by businesses selling goods, products and/or services
  • Small Business Champion – Corporate Partner Award – Honors one corporation statewide that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to small business growth in Kansas through investment and partnerships
  • Under 30 Entrepreneur – Young entrepreneurs, under the age of 30, who are achieving business success
  • Welcome Back – Entrepreneurs and businesspeople who once left Kansas but have returned to make their mark in the Sunflower State

“Businesses are investing in Kansas at unprecedented levels statewide — and small businesses play a leading role in how our communities are growing and building for the future,” Commerce Deputy Secretary Joshua Jefferson said. “It’s local businesses that keep our state attractive and vibrant, and their momentum sets the stage for even more business wins throughout Kansas.”

Award nominations will be accepted until Monday, June 15. To learn more, view past winners and submit nominations, click here.

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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Government, Kansas

KS Governor Vetoes HB 2346

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Governor Kelly Vetoes House Bill 2346

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Monday vetoed House Bill 2346.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Bill 2346:

“Kansas already has a fund dedicated to attracting sports related activities to Kansas. If the Legislature wants to direct a portion of those funds to local communities for sports attraction they should do so.”

“Therefore, pursuant to Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution of the State of Kansas, I hereby veto House Bill 2346.”

Government, Kansas

KS Governor Doesn’t Sign HB 2018

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Governor Kelly Allows
Substitute for House Bill 2018 to
Become Law Without Signature


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has allowed Substitute for House Bill 2018 to become law without her signature.

The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding allowing Substitute for House Bill 2018 to become law without her signature:

“This bill is born out of a tension between two fundamental rights: the right to freely practice religion and the right to freedom of expression. This type of tension is not uncommon in a democracy that has enumerated as many constitutional rights as we enjoy and seek to protect today.

“However, I am concerned that this legislation addresses this tension in a manner that prioritizes one of these rights over the other, and will result in costly litigation.”

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Government, Kansas

Ken Collins Kansas State Representative-Second District Newsletter corrected

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Thoughts From Under the Dome

Ken Collins

Kansas State Representative-Second District

 

 

The 2026 regular legislative session in Kansas has now come to an end and I am happy to say that Benny’s Bill is now Benny’s Law. Those of you who are regular followers of the local news in Southeast Kansas are more than likely familiar of the story of Benny Cannon who now suffers from permanent disability due to the negligence of daycare workers. The persons who were found to be responsible for that incident received very light sentences considering the severity suffered by Benny and his family. This new law elevates child endangerment charges from a misdemeanor to a felony if the victim is under the age of six.

 

Another crime and sentencing related bill that I sponsored along with other legislators this year is HB 2444 which provides among other things that jail credit when consecutive sentences are imposed shall not apply to more than one case, The Governor signed it into law on April 6th.

 

The Pharmacy Benefit Manager bill that regulates the middlemen who operate between drug manufacturers and local pharmacies has been signed into law by Governor Kelly. This was much needed regulation which puts limits on what is virtually a monopoly.

 

On the subject of property tax relief we voted on HCR 5008 which would allow for a constitutional amendment allowing legislative limits on property valuations. The resolution did not pass and I was a no vote because I don’t believe that if enacted that it would have been effective in lowering property tax.

 

That’s just about it for now. I would like to invite anyone who is interested to come out to Galesburg Community Center on Monday the 20th of April at 6:30 PM for my Legislative Update. I will have some other events in the future so be sure to check your local papers or my page on Facebook page for updates. Ad Astra Per Aspera.

 

 

Government, Kansas

Ken Collins Kansas State Representative-Second District Newsletter

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Ken Collins. Submitted photo.

 

Thoughts From Under the Dome

 

 

The 2026 regular legislative session in Kansas has now come to an end and I am happy to say that Benny’s Bill is now Benny’s Law. Those of you who are regular followers of the local news in Southeast Kansas are more than likely familiar of the story of Benny Cannon who now suffers from permanent disability due to the negligence of daycare workers. The persons who were found to be responsible for that incident received very light sentences considering the severity suffered by Benny and his family. This new law elevates child endangerment charges from a misdemeanor to a felony if the victim is under the age of six.

 

Another crime and sentencing related bill that I sponsored along with other legislators this year is HB 2444 which provides among other things that jail credit when consecutive sentences are imposed shall not apply to more than one case, The Governor signed it into law on April 6th.

 

The Pharmacy Benefit Manager bill that regulates the middlemen who operate between drug manufacturers and local pharmacies has been signed into law by Governor Kelly. This was much needed regulation which puts limits on what is virtually a monopoly.

 

On the subject of property tax relief we voted on HCR 5008 which would allow for a constitutional amendment allowing legislative limits on property valuations. The resolution did not pass and I was a no vote because I don’t believe that if enacted that it would have been effective in lowering property tax.

 

That’s just about it for now. I would like to invite anyone who is interested to come out to Galesburg Community Center on Monday the 20th of April at 6:30 PM for my Legislative Update. I will have some other events in the future so be sure to check your local papers or my page on Facebook page for updates. Ad Astra Per Aspera.

 

 

Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Banning Kratom Products

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced she has signed House Bill 2365, which amends the Uniform Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to designate 7-OH kratom related substances to Schedule I designation. Schedule I designates a substance to have a high potential for abuse and without a currently accepted medical use.

“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is in the process of determining whether kratom is a safe and effective means of treating certain medical conditions,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Until such a time as quality scientific reviews determine positive impacts and minimal health risks, it is wise to safeguard the health of Kansans.”

Importantly, this legislation updates Schedule IV – substances that are defined as drugs with low potential for abuse and dependence – to include Zuranolone, a prescription medication approved to treat postpartum depression.

This bill also adds to Schedule I of the CSA: 11 opioids or synthetic opioids; fentanyl-related substances that are not specifically exempted or listed in Schedules II through V; ethylphenidate, a stimulant; hexahydrocannabinol, a derivative of Delta 9; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); CUMYL-PEGACLONE, a synthetic cannabinoid.

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Bourbon County, Government

Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on March 10

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The Regular Council Meeting on March 10, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Kyle Knight.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

 

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson presented the February 2026 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $244,279.23, Receipts $30,427.36, Transfers Out $3,024.25, Expenditures $50,647.95, Checking Account Closing Balance $221,034.39. Bank Statement Balance $221,850.42, including Checking Account Interest of $45.56, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $816.03, Reconciled Balance $221,034.39.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,432.35, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,422.45, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $50,925.50, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $339,814.69. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $92.47, and Utility CDs $633.31 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $725.78.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2026, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, for Total Transfers of $3,024.25.  Net loss for the month of February $23,244.84, Year-to-Date Net Income $20,288.93.  Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $41,872.97 (32.4%), Expenditures $16,034.84 (12.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $6,743.25 (18.7%), Expenditures $5,159.58 (12.1%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $22,994.33 (18.5%), Expenditures $12,604.35 (8.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $33,972.85 (23.1%), Expenditures $17,454.62 (7.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,010.48 (27.6%), Expenditures $1,422.03 (12.7%).  The March 2026 payables to date in the amount of $23,075.39.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of February 10, 2026 Regular Meeting
  • February Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & March Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the cost of Bio Mist used for mosquito fogging has increased to $111.00 per gallon, totaling approximately $278 per fogging session.  The Council and Rich discussed the possibility of more affordable alternatives; however, Rich reported that he has been unsuccessful in identifying any cheaper effective options.  The Council agreed to continue using the current product.  Beginning in April, fogging will be scheduled every three weeks instead of every two weeks.  As peak mosquito season approaches, the schedule will return to every two weeks.  Rich also suggested including a paragraph in the city newsletter to remind residents that standing water in yards or around homes serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The notice will include tips on how individuals can help reduce the mosquito population.

Clerk Arnold reminded the Council of upcoming City Hall closures on March 11–13 due to the CCMFOA Conference, and on March 26–27 due to the Municipal Court Clerk Conference.  Arnold asked the Council to determine dates for the Spring and Fall citywide cleanups.  The Council decided that two roll-off dumpsters would be provided for the 2026 cleanups, scheduled for April 27–30 and August 31–September 3.  There was discussion regarding hosting a town-wide garage sale this year; however, the Council ultimately decided against it due to low community participation in previous years.  Arnold also confirmed with the Council whether to order fish food again this year for the pond located by the school.  The Council approved the purchase and requested that Arnold obtain pricing from multiple vendors.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Knight – requested an update on when Marbery Concrete Inc. would begin work on the FEMA project at 2nd and Clay Streets.  Mayor Jurgensen reported that a recent vehicle accident involving Marbery Concrete Inc. resulted in the loss of equipment, which put a delay on the start of the project. Weather permitting, work is expected to begin once conditions allow.  Knight also asked if new culverts will be put in and Treasurer Johnson had confirmed they will replace with new culverts to help with water flow.

Councilwoman Kelly – none

Councilwoman Pemberton – inquired about who is responsible for unlocking the storm shelters during severe weather events.  Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the shelters remain unlocked during this time of year due to the increased likelihood of inclement weather.  Pemberton also asked whether it would be possible for someone not affiliated with the city to perform ditch cleanout and replace a culvert at 201 2nd St.  Mayor Jurgensen responded that this is not allowed, as the city is responsible for ditch and culvert maintenance.  Superintendent Rich added that he would inspect the area and address the ditch and culvert to the best of his ability.

Councilwoman Pritchett – absent

Councilman Stewart – absent

Mayor Jurgensen – none

 

OLD BUSINESS

FEMA Flooding– As previously discussed earlier in the meeting, Marbery Concrete Inc. will begin repairs when weather permits. Mayor Jurgensen and Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that a one-year extension on the project has been filed and approved.

Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments– Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that the City has not raised water rates since 2024 and sewer rates have not been increased since 2013.  Johnson proposed new water and sewer rates to take effect in April 2026.  The Council reviewed the figures provided and discussed the proposed adjustments.

Moved by Pemberton, seconded by Knight, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly water rate for users within city limits at $28.66 for the first 1,000 gallons, with an additional $12.98 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. For users outside city limits, the minimum monthly rate will be $29.90 for the first 1,000 gallons, with a charge of $13.55 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the water rate.

Moved by Kelly, seconded by Pemberton, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly sewer fee at $27.50 for the first 1,000 gallons of water usage, with an additional $0.31 per 1,000 gallons thereafter, per water meter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the sewer rate.

Knight asked how the City’s rates compare to those of surrounding areas.  A discussion followed regarding rates in neighboring communities and the differences in bulk water purchase rates compared to those areas.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Moved by Kelly, Second by Knight, App