Category Archives: Government

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson

February 2, 2024

 

The Disability Employee Act tax credit program expired last year.  We tried to continue the program, but the Governor vetoed the extension language in CCR 8.  This year the legislature passed CCR 15 to reinstate the program.  The legislation passed the Senate unanimously and has been sent to the Governor.

 

Committee work is still the main focus of session.  All bills can be found at www.kslegislature.org. There are several bills that have passed out of committees.  It appears leadership is not going to move on any bills until there is a vote to override the Governor’s veto of the tax bill CCR 2284, or it could just be a coincidence that no bills have been brought “above the line”.  Above the line is a term used for bills that passed out of committee and are scheduled for debate on the chamber floor with the committee of the whole.  The committee of the whole is all of the members of that chamber.

 

Tax Relief is a major debate in Topeka.  There is over $3 billion in the state coffers so how are we going to cut taxes?  The legislature passed sustainable tax relief in CCR 2284 that helps fight inflation with a bipartisan vote, but the Governor vetoed it.  There will be an attempt to override the veto.

 

CCR 2284 would provide tax relief for all Kansans.  Some people are misrepresenting the fact that it would help over 341,000 low income taxpayers.  They would pay $0 in state income tax.  For example, a family of four making $29,000 with the legislators’ plan, CCR 2284, would have $0 taxes owed, a relief of $372 from existing law, and a relief of $310 over the Governor’s plan.  In current law the family has a $12,000 taxable income after the standard deduction and personal exemptions are subtracted, taxed at 3.1% or $372 taxes owed. The Governor’s plan (SB 377) the same family would have $10,000 taxable income, because SB 377 increases the standard deduction to $10,000 marred filing jointly, but leaves the personal exemption the same; resulting in a tax obligation of $310, a $62 savings from current law.  CCR 2284 would have $0 taxable income because there is an additional subtraction of $12,300 for joint filers ($6150 for individual filers) besides the standard deduction and personal exemption subtractions (which is increased in CCR 2284) – a much better deal than current law or the Governor’s plan.

 

One of the most important features in CCR 2284 is that it continues to increase the standard deduction and personal exemptions to fight inflation, along with a property tax inflation fighter.  CCR 2284 and the Governor’s plans decrease property taxes by exemption $100,000 from the K-12 20 mill, but the legislature’s plan continues to increase this value to fight inflation plan.  Both plans accelerate the elimination of the state sales tax on groceries and exempt Social Security from income tax.  Taxpayers deserve the best possible tax relief and policy that helps fight inflation.

 

Foreign Adversaries, such as China, must be stopped from owning property in Kansas.  I requested legislation to address this and stopping taxpayer money like Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) from being invested in foreign countries that are adversaries of the United States.  The foreign investment language passed the Senate, but a few House members blocked it in conference committee last year.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

 

Government, Kansas

Budget Amendment Proposed by Gov. Kelly

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Governor Kelly Announces Budget Amendment to Increase Funding for Intellectual/Developmental Disability and Physical Disability Waivers

~~$23M Investment Will Ensure 500 More Kansans Receive Critical Services~~ 

TOPEKA—Governor Laura Kelly today announced a Governor’s Budget Amendment to her Fiscal Year 2025 budget proposal to invest over $23 million for the Intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD) and Physical Disability (PD) waivers, creating 250 new slots for each.

With this investment, 500 more Kansans with disabilities will receive critical services such as in-home care, reducing the waitlist for services. Meanwhile, Governor Kelly continues to push for long-term solutions that expand the capacity of disability service providers, such as Medicaid expansion and the Community Supports Waiver. An estimated 15,000 Kansans with disabilities would be eligible for health insurance coverage if Kansas were to expand Medicaid.

“As we’ve heard from disability advocates and families, Kansans with disabilities need the essential services and care provided by these waivers to live comfortably. While we work to build a more comprehensive network of disability services providers, I am committed to reducing the wait times for waiver services,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “In addition to this investment, I will continue to urge the legislature to expand Medicaid to better recruit and retain the workforce needed for more Kansans with disabilities to access quality resources and services.”

Governor Kelly has previously invested a historic $90 million to enhance services for the I/DD waiver throughout her time in office following underfunding from the previous administration.

Governor Kelly has also allocated a $8.6 million enhancement in her Fiscal Year 2025 budget to increase Supported Employment rates for the I/DD waiver community. This funding will allow individuals on the I/DD waiver to pursue their employment goals and play an important role in addressing workforce gaps in Kansas. Governor Kelly’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget also included $7.4 million for I/DD Targeted Case Management and $2 million for I/DD Mobile Crisis Services.

In addition to addressing the I/DD and Physical Disability Waivers, the Governor’s Budget Amendment also includes funding for a new information system at the Department for Children and Families to help the agency identify kin and relative placements for foster youth. It would pay off more than $47 million in bonds for the Curtis and Myriad Buildings, the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility and Statehouse renovations projects, and previous capital improvement projects. The Governor’s Budget Amendment would also retire $450 million in KPERS debt.

The Governor’s Budget Amendment can be found here.

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda for Bourbon County Commission for Feb. 5

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Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

 

February 5, 2024 5:30 p.m.

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 1/29/2024
    2. Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $8,671.45
    3. Approval of December Financials
  1. Public Comments
  2. Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  3. Jennifer Hawkins- County Clerk-President’s Day Meeting
  • Election Ballot
  • Healthcare
  1. Approval of Letter of Support
  2. Justin Meeks- Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(2)
  3. Commission Comments
  • Adjourn Meeting

 

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Bourbon County, Government, Health Care

Bo Co Commission Signs an Memorandum of Understanding with Amberwell Health

2 Comments

Since the Ascension Via Christi Emergency Department shut down operations in December 2023, there has been behind-the-scenes work with another healthcare entity to provide the needed services.

On January 23,  at the Bourbon County Commission meeting, Commissioner Clifton Beth moved to allow Chairman Jim Harris to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Bourbon County government and Amberwell Health Incorporated, according to the commission minutes.

Bourbon County Commissioner Clifton Beth. Submitted photo.

Beth read the first paragraph of the MOU which states: The county is committed to ensuring the provision of quality emergency health services which includes an operating emergency room for a one year period to its residents; and Amberwell Health possesses expertise and resources to enhance and optimize the emergency health services within Bourbon County, according to the minutes.

The MOU states there could be a funding agreement that is mutually agreed upon by both parties, and  additionally that Amberwell Health has to get the needed licenses, according to the minutes.

Beth stated “This is by no means ensuring an emergency room in any way shape or form, this is an MOU with Amberwell so they can continue to move in the process of trying to get us an emergency room.”

Commissioner Nelson Blythe seconded the motion and all approved it, according to the minutes.

Amberwell Health is a rural healthcare system in northeast Kansas with two complete care locations in Atchison and Hiawatha and five additional clinic locations. Amberwell Health is an innovative healthcare system with a mission to sustain and strengthen rural healthcare organizations, according to its website https://amberwellhealth.org/

To view the Memorandum of Understanding:

Signed Amberwell MOU

Sales Tax To Fund Healthcare Is In the Works

Beth made a motion at the January 23 commission meeting to start working on a ballot for a half-cent sales tax to be put on the ballot in order to operate an emergency room and any additional health services.  It would no longer be in effect if an REH is obtained, according to the minutes. Beth said this would give the county approximately $1.5 million that could go towards healthcare. Beth said the commission will let the public decide whether they want it. Blythe seconded the motion and all approved.

Rural emergency hospital (REH) is a new Medicare provider designation established by Congress through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, according to https://www.ncsl.org/health/rural-emergency-hospitals  . REHs are meant to reinforce access to outpatient medical services and reduce health disparities in areas that may not be able to sustain a full-service hospital. Starting in January 2023, Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and small rural hospitals with no more than 50 beds were allowed to apply for REH designation and receive Medicare payment for providing emergency services.

Government, Kansas

HEAL Grants Available to Stabilize Rural Downtown Buildings

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $500,000 will be available under the Emergency Response Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (Emergency HEAL) program to bring rural downtown buildings back from likely demolition or collapse and rehabilitate them into productive commercial use.

Emergency HEAL was created to provide a resource to address sudden and urgent needs of communities when disaster strikes.

“We have seen too many communities lose beautiful historic buildings after extreme wind events, floods or fires when there weren’t adequate resources available to prevent their demolition,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This program will help provide rapid funding to save these structures so they can once again contribute to the retail and service economies of rural Kansas communities.”

Buildings that are at risk of imminent loss, that are causing damage to surrounding downtown buildings, and/or have significant damage due to a disaster event are eligible projects for Emergency HEAL. The grant will be open annually, with a maximum of $100,000 award per community. Communities are allowed to use the funding to help save more than one building if needed. Matching funds (1:1) are required.

Submitted projects must show that recent damage has caused an urgent need for immediate repair or the building could be lost. In addition, the community has one year to repair the building and identify a tenant.

Once stabilized, Emergency HEAL grants help bring downtown buildings back into productive use as spaces for:

  • Businesses (existing or new)
  • Housing
  • Arts and culture
  • Childcare
  • Entrepreneurship or innovation

The application period will open February 9 and close June 1, or until funding is exhausted. A new round will open July 1, 2024, and close June 1, 2025.

A virtual webinar about the specifics of the program is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. Thursday, February 8. Registration is required. Interested organizations and building owners can register here.

For additional information about Emergency HEAL, the online application or the webinar, 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 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Kansas

Online Portal For Property Value Information

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Kansas Department of Revenue Announces Launch of Online Portal for Property Value Information

TOPEKA – Today, the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR), in partnership with Tyler Technologies, announced the launch of Assessment Connect, a new application  that will allow KDOR’s Property Valuation Division to access statewide property appraisal data and provide improved analytical tools for county appraisers. In addition, the project will feature the Kansas Property Valuation Division Data Portal, an open data, public facing website with up-to-date and easily accessible property value information.

The launch of Assessment Connect is part of the KDOR’s ongoing efforts to streamline the property appraisal process and increase transparency and accountability. By making this data available to the public, KDOR hopes to empower citizens to make informed decisions about their property and their community.

“We’re excited to launch this new site and provide Kansans with easy access to important property valuation data,“ said David Harper, KDOR Property Valuation Division Director. “We believe that transparency is key to building trust between government and citizens, and this site is an important step in that direction.”

The open data portal of Assessment Connect will feature appraised value data on all property types from every county in Kansas. Kansans will be able to view the most up-to-date data in easily readable charts and graphs.

Assessment Connect was funded by a grant from the Information Network of Kansas (INK).

The site is available to the public free of charge and can be viewed at https://ksopendata.ksrevenue.gov/

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Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission on January 23

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

SPECIAL CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 Unapproved

Minutes of January 23, 2024                                           Regular Meeting

 

A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held January 23, 2024, at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL

Commissioners T. Van Hoecke, M. Wells, M. Guns, and D. Olson were present with Mayor T. Dancer.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INVOCATION   T. Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and B. Matkin provided the invocation.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE Brad Matkin/City Manager, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, Jason Pickert/Chief of Police, Ben Hart/BakerTilly-Finance, Dave Bruner/Fire Chief, Mark McCoy/REDI, Robert Harrington/REDI, Marvin A. Lewis, Josh Jones, Travis Sawyer, Michael J. Hoyt, Jody Lore, Darnell Pullian, Barry Queen, Dean Striler and Cory Bryars.

 

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the agenda as submitted. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

AGENDA APPROVED AS SUBMITTED.

 

 

CONSENT AGENDA

 

  1. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of December 19, 2023, and January 9, 2024
  2. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1352-A – $1,136,092.65
  3. Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. –Project No. 23-005B – Infantry Substation Sanitary Sewer Relocation – Payment Application No. 3 — $104,165.51.
  4. Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 23-005B – Infantry Substation Sanitary Sewer Relocation – Payment Application No. 4 (Final) – $40,964.70 – with Substantial Completion
  5. Request to Pay – Sprouls Construction, Inc. – Project No. 22-031B – Fort Scott Pavilion – Application for Payment No. 4 – $29,468.65.

 

  1. Request to Pay – Environmental Process Equipment Company (EPEC) – Invoice #01162401 – UV Upgrade at WWTP – Final Payment – (remaining 10% of $318,378.00) – $31,837.80.
  2. December Financials

 

  1. Wells moved to approve the Consent Agenda. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

CONSENT AGENDA APPROVED.

 

 

PUBLIC COMMENT

 

Josh Jones:  J. Jones addressed the Commission requesting that they delay approving the Bourbon County REDI Contract for 2024 that is on the night’s agenda until the next meeting to hear a proposal from the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT) to complement REDI.  

 

Dean Striler:  D. Striler addressed the Commission regarding his disapproval of the decision to disband the Lake Fort Scott Advisory Board and requested an explanation.

 

Barry Queen:  B. Queen addressed the Commission regarding his disapproval and concerns of the decision to disband the Lake Fort Scott Advisory Board. He would like clear communication.

 

Michael J. Hoyt:  M. Hoyt addressed the Commission regarding who will be the City contact for the STAR Bond. B. Matkin stated that he is the City contact and Garth Hermann/GillmoreBell who B. Matkin would contact for responses to STAR Bond questions.

 

 

OLD BUSINESS

 

Combine Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals – tabled from January 9, 2024, for legal counsel

  1. Farmer stated that the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals must remain (2) separate boards. They each serve separate purposes whose duties cannot be completed by a single board, and each has distinct functions.

 

NO ACTION TAKEN. THE BOARDS REMAIN SEPARATE.  

 

Resolution No. 3-2024 – EXEMPTION FROM GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES UNDER K.S.A. 1120A – tabled from January 9, 2024

  1. Hart explained the differences between General Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and accounting by Cash Basis which is designed for smaller cities in the state of Kansas which is done by waiver under this resolution.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 3-2024 – EXEMPTION FROM GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES UNDER K.S.A. 1120A. M. Wells seconded.

 

  1. Hoyt was recognized by the Chair to comment on waiving GAAP.

 

All voted aye.

 

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 3-2024 – EXEMPTION FROM GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES UNDER K.S.A. 1120A.

 

City Commission Representative to the Fort Scott Public Library           M. Wells explained that there was concern from the Fort Scott Public Library that the newly elected Mayor was not to sit on the Library Board. M. Wells was chosen by Commission vote to remain the representative. This is against the board’s standard practice. B. Farmer/City Attorney researched the topic and found no Kansas statutes that prohibited M. Wells from remaining on the Library Board without the title of Mayor for 2024. The direction come from the Southeastern Kansas Library Association’s accepted standards. B. Farmer will write a letter to the Fort Scott Public Library explaining the Commission’s decision to retain M. Wells as the City Commission Representative for the Fort Scott Public Library for 2024. If there continues to be an issue, the remedy would be to write a Charter Ordinance.

 

NO NEW ACTION TAKEN. THE VOTE TO RETAIN M. WELLS AS THE CITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE TO THE FORT SCOTT PUBLIC LIBRARY, JANUARY 9, 2024, STANDS AS RECORDED.

 

 

APPREARANCES 

 

Michael J. Hoyt regarding Charter Ordinance No. 31: M. Hoyt addressed the Commission by request of an Appearance and provided supplemental materials. In summary, on August 18, 2020, a Charter Ordinance exempting the City of Fort Scott from the provisions of K.S.A. 12631P relating to the disposition of sewer and storm water reserve funds was passed by the City Commission. After the ordinance passed, a protest petition was found to be sufficient by the County Attorney. The petition was circulated, enough signatures were obtained to put this issue on a ballot. A special election was held on January 5, 2021, and the decision was that Charter Ordinance No. 31 would NOT be invoked.  M. Hoyt stated that he has an issue with this because Charter Ordinance No. 31 is not recorded in the City’s ordinances; like it never existed. M. Hoyt stated that it should be in the City’s records as passed by the City Commission and revoked by protest petition. He is asking that it be put on the record.  B. Farmer stated that it is called a “distinction without a difference”. M. Hoyt would like to make sure that there are no further mistakes. He stated that there have been similar issues in the past.

 

  1. VanHoecke requested that (1) last look be made for the documents. If they cannot be located, the City Clerk is to request the election results and documentation from the County Clerk to have for this City Commission who will then validate the file the records at the City.
  2. Hoyt stated it would be beneficial to have the letter that was sent to the City from the County Elections Officer that said that the election did, in fact, take place.

 

The Commission directed the City Manager, City Attorney and City Clerk to follow up with the stated actions.

 

 

NEW BUSINESS 

 

Public Hearings:

 

  1. Wells moved to open the Public Hearing for Case No. 1042 at 6:45PM. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO OPEN PUBLIC HEARING FOR CASE NO. 1042 – VACATION OF E. 21ST STREET – MARVIN A. LEWIS AT 6:45PM.

 

Case No. 1042 – Vacation of E. 21st Street – Marvin A. Lewis – Not recommended by Planning Commission January 10, 2024.

  1. Lewis was present as well as Josh Jones who has property that would be affected by the vacation of the street. The Planning Commission did not recommend the vacation due to accessibility concerns for potential development in the immediate area. J. Jones proposed an alternative solution at the end of the Planning Commission meeting on January 10, 2024. J. Jones suggested swapping the parcels on each side of E. 21st Street so that M. Lewis’ property would remain together instead of being split by the road and easement. The Planning Commission did not recommend vacating E. 21st Street as requested. They heard the alternative proposal after voting and suggested taking the idea to the City Commission for consideration as a compromise to the access concerns.

 

Discussion was had about options.  B. Farmer stated that the Commission can only vote on whether to vacate E. 21st Street as presented in the case.  J. Jones stated that the alternative would be to vote on the vacation and then make a second motion regarding the proposal.

 

  1. Guns moved to close the Public Hearing at 6:55PM. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING OF CASE NO. 1042 AT 6:55PM.

 

  1. Wells motioned to follow the recommendation of the Planning Commission and not approve the action request to vacate E. 21st Street as presented in Case No. 1042. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO FOLLOW THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND NOT APPROVE THE ACTION REQUEST TO VACATE E. 21ST STREET AS PRESENTED IN CASE NO. 1042.

 

  1. Wells moved to have the City Attorney write a proposal to swap Lot 11, owned by Marvin A. Lewis, with the City-owned property on the other side of E. 21st Street. The City of Fort Scott would maintain the ability access to utilities on all land in the transaction. This proposal is to be presented to Marvin A. Lewis for consideration. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO HAVE THE CITY ATTORNEY WRITE A PROPOSAL TO SWAP LOT 11, OWNED BY MARVIN A. LEWIS, WITH THE CITY-OWNED PROPERTY ON THE OTHER SIDE OF E. 21ST STREET. THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT WOULD MAINTAIN THE ABILITY ACCESS TO UTILITIES ON ALL LAND IN THE TRANSACTION. THIS PROPOSAL IS TO BE PRESENTED TO MARVIN A. LEWIS FOR CONSIDERATION.

 

  1. Wells moved to open the Public Hearing for Case No. 1044 at 6:57PM. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO OPEN PUBLIC HEARING FOR CASE NO. 1044 – ZONING CHANGE AND SPECIAL USE PERMIT – 1601 E. WALL – TRAVIS SAWYER AT 6:57PM.

 

Case No. 1044 – Zoning Change and Special Use Permit – 1601 E. Wall – Travis Sawyer – Recommended by Planning Commission January 10, 2024 – Travis Sawyer requested that the City Commission consider a change in his original proposal to the Planning Commission which is to move the proposed building (7) feet closer to Franklin Street than what was represented on the map. He stated he spoke to the Planning Commission about it because he would be building into the easement. The intention is to keep it further from the waterway. The previous building was into the easement as well.

 

Pete Allen asked that the Commission keep in consideration the proposed Wall Street Historic District that is in process.

 

The City Engineer stated that he looked at the site and if the paperwork includes a variance to the setback, everything should be fine.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to close the Public Hearing at 7:07PM. D. Olson seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING OF CASE NO. 1044 AT 7:07PM.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to follow the recommendation of the Planning Commission and approve the action request of Case No. 1044 to change the zoning and special use permit of 1601 E. Wall Street. D. Olson seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO FOLLOW THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND APPROVE THE ACTION REQUEST OF CASE NO. 1044 TO CHANGE THE ZONING OF 1601 E. WALL STREET FROM MULTI-USE TO C-3 AND APPROVE THE SPECIAL USE PERMIT.

 

 

ACTION ITEMS

 

Replacement of staff vehicle allocated in 2023 Capital Improvement Plan Fire Chief Dave Bruner addressed the Commission for permission to search for a replacement for the 2009 Trailblazer (purchased in 2010) that is currently assigned to the Deputy Fire Chief as a response vehicle.

Repair of the vehicle has become an issue. D. Bruner stated that he would like the Commission’s approval to search for a used replacement vehicle and waive the approval requirement of the City’s Purchasing Policy. That would allow him to work with the City Manager and act quicker on the purchase due to the demand for used vehicles. It was determined that the Commission had previously waived the requirements if funds were available.  B. Hart confirmed funds are available in the Public Safety Capital Equipment Fund with $30,000.00 allocated in the budget and the amount is amendable if necessary.

 

  1. Wells moved to approve the purchase of an unequipped vehicle under $30,000.00 (without required emergency items) and up to $35,000.00 (with required emergency items). D. Olson seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE PURCHASE OF AN UNEQUIPPED VEHICLE UNDER $30,000.00 (WITHOUT REQUIRED EMERGENCY ITEMS) AND UP TO $35,000.00 (WITH REQUIRED EMERGENCY ITEMS) WITH THE APPROVAL TO BE MADE BY THE CITY MANAGER.

 

  1. Matkin left the room (7:20PM)

 

Streets Advisory Board Ordinance Changes

  1. VanHoecke moved to table the discussion of ordinance changes until February 6, 2024. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO TABLE THE DISCUSSION OF STREET ADVISORY BOARD ORDINANCE CHANGES UNTIL THE FEBRUARY 6, 2024, CITY COMMISSION MEETING.

 

Letter of Interest for the vacancy on the Streets Advisory Board submitted by Robert Hassig

  1. Wells moved to approve Robert Hassig as a member of the Streets Advisory Board. D. Olson seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ROBERT HASSIG AS A MEMBER OF THE FORT SCOTT STREETS ADVISORY BOARD.

 

  1. Matkin returned to the meeting (7:22PM)

 

Consideration of 2024 REDI Contract

Mark McCoy/President of Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI) addressed the Commission as the City and County’s economic development entity with a proposed contract beginning in 2024.

 

Discussion was had on the status of the contract and payments related to that contract.

 

  1. Harrington/Executive Director of REDI addressed the Commission regarding the future of the proposed contract with REDI and the status of the contract as he understood.

 

  1. Jones (former City Commissioner) was recognized by the Chair and made statements regarding the history of the contract with the City and REDI during his seating on the Commission.

 

Further discussion was had regarding the economic development for the City regarding first point of contact, following procedure, honoring the existing contract and possible changes in language of the proposed contract.

 

  1. Guns asked B. Hart for the amount available in the Economic Development Fund. B. Hart confirmed $196,000.00 is in the fund.

 

  1. Jones requested that the City hear a proposal from HBCAT to possibly complement the proposed REDI contract and have the (2) possibly work together.

 

  1. Guns moved to postpone consideration of the proposed 2024 Contract between REDI and the City of Fort Scott until the regular City Commission meeting of February 20, 2024. D. Olson seconded.
  2. Guns and D. Olson voted aye. T. VanHoecke, M. Wells and T. Dancer voted nay.

 

MOTION DEFEATED BY 2-3 VOTE.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the revised 2024 REDI contract which includes the 30-day cancellation notice and allows other entities to present their services to the Commission for consideration. T. Dancer seconded.

 

  1. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted aye. D. Olson, M. Guns and M. Wells voted nay.

 

MOTION DEFEATED BY 2-3 VOTE.

 

  1. Farmer left the meeting (8:21PM)

 

 

 

 

 

Cost Plus Net Fee Agreement for (Preliminary) Engineering Services – Project No. 06-KA-6898-01 – KDOT CCLIP-US 54 Project Phase I

The City Engineer presented the official state contract which is a three-party agreement between the engineer, the City and the State. This agreement combines the fees of Phase I design and allows the 90/10 reimbursement to be put into effect. Once completed and returned to the State, a supplement to this agreement with cover Phase II design.

 

  1. Farmer returned to the meeting (8:23PM)

 

  1. Wells left the meeting (8:24PM)

 

  1. Olson moved to approve the Cost Plus Net Fee Agreement for (Preliminary) Engineering Services as presented. M. Guns seconded. D. Olson, M. Guns, T. VanHoecke, T. Dancer voted aye. M. Wells was absent for the vote.

 

APPROVED THE COST PLUS NET FEE AGREEMENT FOR (PRELIMINARY) ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR PROJECT NO. 06-KA-6898-01 KDOT CCLIP US54 PROJECT PHASE I.

 

  1. Wells returned to the meeting (8:25PM)

 

 

Work Session – Contractors’ Advisory Board

  1. Wells moved for continuation of discussions by Work Session regarding a Contractors’ Advisory Board to be held on February 20, 2024, 5:00PM at City Hall. M. Guns seconded.

 

 

REPORTS AND COMMENTS

Comments were made by the City Manager, City Engineer, Commissioner VanHoecke, Commissioner Wells, Commissioner Guns, Commissioner Olson, and Commissioner Dancer. Available on the City of Fort Scott YouTube Channel.

 

 

EXECUTIVE SESSION

  1. VanHoecke moved for the City Commission to recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing matter pursuant to the attorney/client privilege exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, the City Manager, and the City Attorney. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 9:06PM. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION.

 

  1. Wells moved to come out of Executive Session with no action. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO MOVE OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION WITH NO ACTION.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:08PM. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

MEETING ADJOURNED AT 9:08PM.

 

Submitted by:

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Government, Kansas

KDA Announces Specialty Crop Grant Opportunity

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MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2024 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. Funds for the program are awarded to the agency by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service.

The grant funds are in turn granted to projects and organizations to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops by leveraging efforts to market and promote specialty crops; assisting producers with research and development relevant to specialty crops; expanding availability and access to specialty crops; and addressing local, regional, and national challenges confronting specialty crop producers. Specialty crops are defined by the USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.”

Applications will be evaluated by a team of external reviewers. The team will rate proposals on their ability to successfully enhance the competitiveness of the specialty crop industry in Kansas and make a positive impact on the Kansas economy. Those recommendations will be submitted to the Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, who will make the final awards.

Applications are due to KDA no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 15, 2024. For more information, please download and carefully read the 2024 Kansas Request for Applications document from the KDA website: agriculture.ks.gov/specialtycrop.

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funding from USDA–AMS is awarded to states based on recent value and acreage of specialty crops in the state. In 2024, Kansas will receive approximately $330,000.

The vision of the Kansas Department of Agriculture is to provide an ideal environment for long-term, sustainable agricultural prosperity and statewide economic growth. The agency will achieve this by advocating for sectors at all levels and providing industry outreach.

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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January 26, 2024

 

Tax relief was vetoed by the Governor.  A bipartisan vote sent CCR 2284 to the Governor’s desk. The Governor vetoed the legislation the same day it was put on her desk – blocking major tax cuts that would:

 

  • Eliminate state income taxes for over 340,000 low income tax filers
  • Eliminate state income tax on Social Security
  • Increase standard deductions to offset inflation
  • Increase personal income tax exemptions to offset inflation
  • Increase personal exemption increase for Veterans with 100% disability to offset inflation
  • Provide property tax relief to over one million residents – increased each year to offset inflation
  • Eliminate the state sales tax on groceries in April 1, 2024, instead of 2025

 

It is disappointing the Governor has given over $1 billion in tax breaks to one foreign company, but she vetoes tax bills that will help Kansans.  In 2021, she vetoed a tax bill saying it was reckless and would break the state.  The legislature overrode the veto and there is still over $3 billion in the state coffers.  She favors major corporations over Kansans struggling to pay their bills.  Last year she vetoed two tax bills that she said would “break the state” or “had too many provisions” – her words.  Yet she signed tax bills with more provisions into law and gave billions in tax breaks to corporations.  Her actions speak volumes.

 

You would think there would be a sure path to a veto override.  We will find out where legislators stand on this important issue.  The Governor says she will not sign a bill with a flat tax and that it only helps the rich.  How can eliminating state income tax for over 340,000 low income Kansans be helping the rich?  Also, it is not a flat tax even though people are using that terminology.  Check the facts.

 

Committee work is the main focus early in session.  It is an important part of the legislative process.  Hearings are held.  Legislators listen and ask questions before debating and voting on bills.  All bills can be found at www.kslegislature.org.

 

Protect the Border there is legislation being worked on to send the Kansas National Guard to Texas to help secure the border and build the wall.  A few of us are working to secure funds to support Texas in their efforts and a resolution is also being drafted.  There is also legislation being written to model Texas which would say you cannot reside in Kansas if you entered this country illegally.  It is controversial, but we must stop this border crisis and I am doing what I can as a state legislator.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Conservation District Meets January 30

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

Bourbon County Conservation District…..

78th Annual Meeting!

Join the Bourbon County Conservation District for their 78th Annual Meeting!

This meeting will include the recognition of the 2023 Conservation Award Winner, and the election of 2 supervisors for a 3-year term!

H’orderves and drinks will be available.

No RSVP necessary!

Tuesday, January 30th, 2024

5:30pm

Clover Leaf 4-H Building

Bourbon County Fairgrounds

Sponsored by: Citizens, City State, Landmark, Union State Banks!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Government, Kansas

KS Marketing Campaign Launched

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Kansas Tourism celebrates Kansas Day by Launching 2024 Marketing Campaign

TOPEKA — To commemorate Kansas Day, Kansas Tourism has released a new video inviting audiences to reclaim their vacation in Kansas. The video kicks off Kansas Tourism’s 2024 marketing campaign that focuses on the true meaning of a vacation and how Kansas is the perfect vacation destination.

To watch the video, click here. Kansans and non-Kansans alike are encouraged to join the movement by sharing the video on social media and making their plans to vacation in Kansas at the Tourism website here.

“Too many trips leave us drained instead of refreshed, but it doesn’t have to be that way,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Instead of counting vacation days, we want visitors to make their vacation days count in Kansas.”

The concept of a vacation was first popularized in the 1860s and was intended to encourage people to “vacate their homes” to experience the wilderness and reconnect through rest and relaxation, essential to living a healthy life. But nowadays, vacations are often stress-inducing, jam-packed and expensive.

“Let’s get back to the heart of what a vacation is meant to be,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “We know that you can find it in Kansas.”

Kansas Tourism provides valuable free resources to help plan a Kansas trip, including a free travel guide available to be mailed or immediately downloaded. The TravelKS.com website features an entire Plan Your Trip section.

“Visitors worldwide should plan a Kansas vacation in 2024 because Kansas is filled with outdoor adventure, inspirational history, world-class attractions, and exceptional arts and entertainment,” Jobe said.

Kansas Day, January 29, provides the perfect opportunity for Kansans to come together and honor the unique history that has shaped the Sunflower State and to kick-off the 2024 tourism marketing campaign. On this day in 1861, Kansas officially entered the Union as the 34th state, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. This celebration provides the opportunity to acknowledge contributions of Kansans throughout the years, from the pioneers who settled the prairies to the modern-day innovators driving the state’s progress.

Follow Kansas Tourism on:

Facebook – / travelks 

Instagram – / kansastourism 

#VacationinKansas

#ToTheStarsKS

About Kansas Tourism:

The mission of Kansas Tourism is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination. Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, approves tourist signage applications, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education, and support.

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 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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