Category Archives: Government

Government, Kansas

Governor Candidates Speak at Forum

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Shirley Palmer answers questions about Josh Svaty prior to the candidate forum.

There are 12 candidates for governor of Kansas, four spoke at the 2018 Candidates Forum at Fort Scott High School July 31.

The following are excerpts from opening comments  that were given:

One spokesperson, Shirley Palmer, did so for Josh Svaty. When Palmer served as a representative,  she knew Svaty to be articulate, and “making a difference,” she said. He is a Kansas farmer, married with four children. Savty is able to unify Kansas. “Want to make a change…(and are ready) to move this state forward.”

Arden Andersen: He was a vo-ag teacher initially, is a doctor,  and flight doctor, and has served in the military.  “I am tired of a broken health care system, I have answers to solve that system…To make health care available to everyone from the least to the greatest.” Additionally “We need to get more money into the classroom for supplies and paraprofessionals.”

Lynn Rogers: He is running for lieutenant governor with Laura Kelly as governor. He is a senator,  worked for a farm credit business, married with three children and three grandchildren, was on the Wichita School Board for over 16 years. “Services… are not being performed…roads.. and schools are falling apart.” “We are ready to work for you right away.”

Patrick Kucera: He is an entrepreneurial evangelist. Married 28 years with six children.  He is a visionary leader, not a manager.

Ken Selzer: He attended K-State, married 38 years, CPA, business man, Conservative, pro-life, pro-2nd Amendment,  and is the current state insurance commissioner. While in office he reduced the size of the office,  reduced costs to the state, and improved customer service.

Question 1: The Supreme Court has said legislative funding for education is deficient. How would you propose it be financed?

Andersen:  Diversity is needed in the state, other sources, perhaps tourism, getting the economy going. Medical marijuana helps with the opioid crises, he said, as a doctor. There isn’t one thing that will solve all problems. Health care and the prison system need to be overhauled. These are ideas to get more revenue.

Rogers: Legislature did that this year. “We did that through overturning the unfair Brownback tax experiment.” “We had 400,000  people who weren’t paying taxes. We have made it a fairness issue… We balanced the budget this year. As a state, we have begged borrow and stolen from every fund.”

Kucera:  He said entrepreneurs create revenue and an evangelist creates a revival and he is creating a revival of revenue. Wants to redefine what revenue is: not taxation. “I’m the agricultural hemp guy in this race. We are an agricultural economy. I believe that revival of revenue is coming from industrial hemp.”

Selzer: Lean in on costs. Operate more effectively. Make Kansas grow. “We have to think more broadly. That will solve some of our funding problems.”

Question 2: What would you do to improve rural Kansas hospitals?

Rogers: Expand Medicaid, it would cover $1.2 million and create thousands of jobs.  Another idea: Ark  City pays a 1.5 percent sales tax to fund their hospital.

Kucera: “Agricultural, industrial hemp. A plant that can be grown, create jobs, make property tax grow up. That is the answer.”

Selzer: “A natural selection of hospitals…. sometimes yields a better result.” “Some rural hospitals will affiliate with larger hospitals.” “We need to be careful what we do with Medicaid Expansion., it’s incredibly expensive.”

Anderson: Some insurances cost $1,000 to $2,000 per month and with deductibles $5,000-10,000, he said. “you essentially don’t have insurance”. The medical system has to be overhauled and suggested looking at the Australian model.

Question 3: Would you lower the property tax?

Kucera: The state must make more and spend less. The more money you have in your tax, the more the economy will grow. The government should be more entrepreneurial.

Seltzer: Absolutely, we will take a business approach…increase the economy.

Anderson: Pproperty tax is not fair to seniors and lower social economic level.

Rogers: Many weren’t paying taxes, the tax burden was pushed on cities and counties. A county’s biggest expenses are law enforcement and mental health, those costs have been pushed from state to local level and are unfair.

Closing remarks:

Seltzer: He is a successful business man and has a government background. He has improved costs and productivity as the current insurance commissioner. “I have released my tax returns, you need to lead by example.” He has a farm and is connected to rural Kansas.

Anderson:” It’s important to understand there are a number of things we need to overhaul. Health care is the no.1 issue nationwide. It’s important to turn this thing around in three ways: 1) De-privatize, 2) go after drug costs,3) go after radiology and laboratory costs.

Twenty-percent of children have developmental delay in our classrooms, caused by mercury, aluminum, pesticides and industrial chemicals.” We won’t be able to train them…. and who will take care of them when their parents no longer can.”

Rogers: “We will be out in state visiting on a regular basis… Laura Kelley has fought back. Kansas deserves better service. We want to get to work for you as a no-nonsense problem solver.”

Candidate forum attendees were greeted by candidates in the hall of Fort Scott High School.

Kucera:  A change of direction in the state is needed.  Hemp can be converted into 50,000 products. Those will create jobs and farmers will have hope again. He is a visionary leader.

 

 

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Commission Minutes for July 17

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of July 17, 2018 Regular Meeting #14

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held July 17th, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

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

INVOCATION: Pastor James Collins, First Southern Baptist Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City and all government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Janet Braun, Denton Wescoat, Deb Needleman, Darrell Parker, Travis Shelton, James Collins, Larry Gazaway, Michael Mix, Dave Bruner, Kenny Howard, Rhonda Dunn, Paul Ballou, Chad Brown, Mike Embry, Alek Shelden, Rachel Pruitt, Ken Wheeler, Bill Boge, Shawn Pritchett & Mozzie, Dawna Maloney, John Maloney, Deb McCoy, Jerald Mitchell Randy Page, and Clayton Miller, and representing the press, Jason Silvers, Fort Scott Tribune.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: Introduction of Drug Dog, Mozzie – Travis Shelton, Chief of Police, introduced Officer Shawn Pritchett and his drug dog, Mozzie. Mozzie is a two year old Dutch Shepherd dog. He has already assisted in over 20 drug arrests and is doing a great job. He and Officer Pritchett have really bonded well together.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July 3rd, 2018.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1219-A totaling $375,841.80.

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

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: None

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

limit per citizen) –

  1. PUBLIC HEARINGS:

Mitchell moved to open the Public Hearing at 6:15 p.m. Bartelsmeyer seconded. Motion carried.

OPENED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:15 P.M.

6:15 p.m. Resolution 31-2018 directing the repair or removal of an unsafe and dangerous structure and accessory structure located at 608 S. Broadway Street – Rhonda Dunn, Community Development Director, informed the Commission that this structure has had issues with codes since 1999. The porch is in bad condition and the roof of the porch is in disrepair. The roof of the porch has a hole in it by the ceiling that is covered by a tarp. The fascia and guttering has damage and the foundation of the structure is cracked and open to the elements. The structure is vacant and belongs to William Wiggans. She asked for this structure to be repaired or removed in a short time period.

Mitchell moved to approve Resolution No. 31-2018 authorizing this structure be repaired or removed in 10 days. Parker seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 31-2018 DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE LOCATED AT 608 S. BROADWAY STREET. STRUCTURE MUST BE BROUGHT UP TO 2012 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE BY AUGUST 3rd, 2018 OR DEMOLITION PROCEEDINGS WILL BEGIN.

6:15 p.m. Resolution 32-2018 directing the repair or removal of an unsafe and dangerous structure located at 1914 E. Wall Street – Rhonda Dunn, Community Development Director, informed the Commission that she has no photos to share of this structure but has been in contact with the owner. This is an old 1940’s motor court hotel. The owner is planning to put a new roof on as well as windows to renovate this structure. He has already removed a lot of brush from this structure. She asked that this be delayed for 30 days.

City Attorney recommended continuing the public hearing in 30 days.

Parker moved to approve to continue the public hearing on the structure at 1914 E. Wall for 30 days. Bartelsmeyer seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO CONTINUE THE PUBLIC HEARING ON 1914 E. WALL FOR 30 DAYS.

Bartelsmeyer moved to close the Public Hearing at 6:23 p.m. Adamson seconded. All voted aye.

CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING AT 6:23 P.M.

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Wastewater Facility Inspection Review – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that an inspection was held at the Wastewater Treatment Plant facility on May 18th, 2018 by K.D.H.E. There were no issues or deficiencies found during the inspection. Michael introduced Mike Embry, the Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor.

Mike Embry thanked his team of employees: Alek Shelden, Randy Page, Bill Boge, John Maloney and Ken Wheeler. He also thanked the City Commission for their support when improvements are needed at the plant.

  1. Change in policy for Septic Haulers in Bourbon County – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that at the last meeting he brought up the issue of the Wastewater Treatment Plant receiving grease and oil from septic haulers. He drafted a letter that he will mail to all septic haulers notifying them that the plant will not accept any grease or oil as the plant cannot process it. He did discuss this issue with personnel at the State. He talked to Terry Lawrence, who is one of the biggest haulers and he was understanding of the change. This change will be effective August 20th, 2018.

Parker moved to approve the change in policy for the septic haulers effective August 20th, 2018. Bartelsmeyer seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CHANGE IN POLICY FOR SEPTIC HAULERS EFFECTIVE AUGUST 20TH, 2018.

  1. Consideration of appointment to Fort Scott Public Library Board – Diane Clay, City Clerk, informed the Commission that three letters of interest were received for the open position vacated by Tracy Homan on the Fort Scott Public Library Board. Yvonne Holloway, Amanda Collins, and Maybelle Mertz submitted letters of interest. These letters were sent to the Library Board and they have recommended the appointment of Yvonne Holloway to this position.

Parker moved to approve to appoint Yvonne Holloway to the Fort Scott Public Library Board. Adamson seconded. All voted aye. Motion carried.

APPROVED TO APPOINT YVONNE HOLLOWAY TO THE FORT SCOTT PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD TO REPLACE THE VACATED POSITION OF TRACY HOMAN.

  1. Adoption of 2018 Standard Traffic Ordinance No. 3536 – Travis Shelton, Chief of Police, asked the Commission to approve the Standard Traffic Ordinance which allows the City to enforce all traffic stops.

Bartelsmeyer moved to approve Ordinance No. 3536 approving the 2018 Standard Traffic Ordinance. Adamson seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3536 AMENDING CHAPTER 10.04 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE TO INCORPORATE 2018 STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCES.

  1. Approval to solicit bids for a mower at Airport/Lakes – Kenny Howard, Airport/Lake Director informed the Commission he is requesting to go out for bid for a mower with a blower attachment for mowing at the Lakes and the Airport. This will also be used to clean the ramps at the Airport. This will be a 72” mower with a fold up deck with a blower that will blow debris off the runway. As the airport grows, other attachments could be purchased for the mower such as a power broom and a snow blower. The estimated cost is $24,000 and this is a budgeted item.

Bartelsmeyer moved to approve to solicit bids for a mower at the Airport. Adamson seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO SOLICIT BIDS FOR A MOWER AT THE AIRPORT AND LAKES.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

  1. Director Updates:

Deb Needleman – Deb gave an update on the Healthy Bourbon County Grant the City was recently awarded. The City received $6,850 and she shared photos of the desk risers, a treadmill, and an elliptical that was purchased with these funds. The desk risers were purchased for City Hall, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Communications Manager at Dispatch. The treadmill is at the Police Department for the dispatchers and the elliptical is at Fire Station #2. In August, a workshop will be held on nutrition that the committee will plan to attend. She shared a graph with the Commission on Physical Activity for City employees.

Larry Gazaway – Larry shared photos of the remodel at the CVB. He gave several updates on the CVB. They have installed Rec Trac, which is a point of sale system. They are installing their own telephone system, which will have a different number than the Chamber. They have installed a door chime with a counter. Since July 1st, they have had 775 people come into the CVB. He is busy marketing Fort Scott. He gave them each a copy of the Southeast Kansas Tourism Guide, where Fort Scott is advertised. They are active on facebook, Instagram, and twitter. He will be attending Tour Kansas on August 7th. He is the President of Tour Kansas. He had a bus tour today with about 30 people. He is marketing the LaRoche Baseball Complex. He is working on a big Veteran’s Day weekend and has invited 217 V.F.W. and American Legion organizations to this event which will be held November 9-11. He shared a photo of a troop banner which will be 30X60 and can be purchased with a Veteran’s photo. They hope to sell enough to hang these all down Main Street and even National if needed. The CVB is marketing that they will book rooms for upcoming events for individuals coming to Fort Scott. The Trolley is being marketed also and tickets printed now. Any organization or restaurant can include a coupon to their establishment if desired to be included in the envelope with the ticket. He gave updates on the Biking Across America event, the Lavender Fest, the Waterways Exhibit and movie nights. There is a Welcome Back to Fort Scott event which will be held on August 11th at the River Room. He also updated the Commission on geo fencing and advertising that can be sent to a smart phone through this.

Dave Bruner – Dave shared two items with the Commission. The first item he showed the Commission was something new that he checked into called Project Breathe. It is a pet oxygen mask. They have three sizes. So many times when a fire occurs, an animal is in the house and they assist with the animals also. He showed how the mask works and how it hooks up with a hose to the oxygen bottle to help resuscitate animals. The next item was the announcement of a grant that the Fire Department received through A.F.G. for the purchase of air packs. The grant is for $104,500 with a City match of $4,976 to purchase 16 air packs and 32 bottles. He thanked Doug Bartlett with the Linn County Fire Department who assisted with the grant application and also Sheriff Martin who assisted also.

B. City Commission:

Adamson – Nothing to report.

Bartelsmeyer – Nothing to report.

Nichols – Not present.

Parker – Thanked Jon Garrison for his hard work in completing the 2019 Budget documents. She thanked all the departments including the Wastewater guys for their inspection accomplishment. She thanked all departments who help keep spending under control.

Mitchell – Nothing to report.

C. City Attorney: Nothing to report.

  1. Director of Finance: Nothing to report.

  1. City Manager:

  1. Dave gave an update on several projects:

  1. Moving forward with the possible sale of 2nd Street Park to an entity who would still allow the City access to the trails for Gunn Park and Riverfront Park.

  2. Pool – Dave said that this has been a rough year at the pool. He thanked Chasity Ware and the pool assistants and lifeguards. They have had to send kids home this year.

  3. Court – Dave said that staff is looking at Municipal Court and Deb is taking this project on.

  4. Budget – Dave said that the budget is complete and will be on the next agenda for approval.

  5. Airport expansion – Dave said that funding is still being researched for this project.

  6. Tourism – Dave said that all the marketing that the CVB is bringing in is new revenue to the City.

  7. Fire Department – Dave thanked Dave Bruner and Paul Ballou on receiving the Air Pack grant.

  8. Fort Scott Lofts – Dave said that Fort Scott Lofts owner is trying to work out something with the owner of the Stout building.

  9. Comp Plan – Dave said that the Planning Commission wanted to make sure that the City Commission understands that the Comp Plan is a work in progress. It will be moving forward soon.

ADJOURNMENT:

Parker moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:58 p.m. Bartelsmeyer seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 6:58 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on August 7th, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

____________________

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Commission Agenda For Aug. 7

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Fort Scott City Commission agenda for August 7 at 6 p.m.at City Hall, 123 S. Main.

I. ROLL CALL:

ADAMSON BARTELSMEYER NICHOLS PARKER MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE

III. INVOCATION: Community Christian Church Minister

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of July 17th, 2018.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1220-A totaling $510,652.55.

  1. Approval of Public Dance License – River Room Events, LLC, 3 W. Oak

  1. Certificate of Appropriateness – Improvements at 9 N. Main Street

  1. Resolution 32-2018 and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structure located at 111 S. Little – Public Hearing Date – 9/18/2018 at 6:15 p.m.

VI. SERVICE AWARD RECOGNITIONS:

5 years: (Certificate only)

Chris Anderson, Firefighter, Fort Scott Fire Department

Justin Fisher, Corporal, Fort Scott Police Department

Dustin Fowler, Maintenance II, Woodland Hills Golf Course

Christopher Garrett, Corporal, Fort Scott Police Department

Janet Guilfoyle, Accounting Clerk, City Hall

Blynn Hill, IV, Sergeant, Fort Scott Police Department

Jason McReynolds, Maintenance II, Water Distribution Department

Kenneth Rood, Water Treatment Plant Maintenance

Alex Schafer, Firefighter, Fort Scott Fire Department

Ronald “Trey” Widder, Police Officer, Fort Scott Police Department

10 years: (Certificate and Gift)

Brian Thurston, Detective, Fort Scott Police Department

Chris Tourtillott, Maintenance II, Parks Department

15 years: (Certificate and Gift)

Mike Embry, Supervisor, Wastewater Treatment Plant

20 years: (Certificate and Gift)

Diane Clay, City Clerk/Municipal Court Clerk

Chad Brown, Public Works Director

25 years: (Certificate and Gift)

Daren Hutchison, Captain, Fort Scott Fire Department

Shaun West, Captain, Fort Scott Police Department

VII. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE:

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

C. PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS:

6:00 p.m. – 2019 Budget Hearing – Adoption of 2019 Budget

VIII. CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration of a Conditional Use Permit at 9 N. Main to allow residential living on the 1st floor

  1. Consideration of a Conditional Use Permit to allow residential living at the commercial business at 2149 Highway 54

  1. Discussion of 1523 E. Wall Street demolition

  1. Discussion of 1601 E. Wall Street demolition

  1. Discussion of 310 N. Cleveland demolition

  1. Consideration of three year agreement with Craw-Kan to install fiber internet at LaRoche Baseball Complex

  1. Consideration for Housing Authority Payment in Lieu of Taxes payment of $30,000 – Patty Simpson

  1. Consideration of Airport Mower Bid

IX. COMMENTS:

  1. Director Updates: Rhonda Dunn
  1. Commission:
  1. City Attorney:
  1. Director of Finance:
  1. City Manager:

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE

SESSION FOR ________________________________ IN ORDER TO

(see below justification)

DISCUSS ______________________________________. THE

EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE ___________ MINUTES AND THE OPEN

MEETING TO RESUME AT ________________.

Justifications for Executive Sessions:

  • Personnel matters of non-elected personnel

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

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

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

  • Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL

Government, Kansas

Treasurer, Senate District 13 and Commissioner of Insurance Comments At Candidates Forum July 31

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The candidates for  State Treasurer, Senate District 13 and Commissioner of Insurance were among the 25 candidates to speak at the July 31 Candidate Forum at Fort Scott High School.

Following are excerpts from their responses to questions submitted to the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce and read to the candidates by the moderator, Tim McKenney.

Marci Francisco, a candidate for state treasurer, said she received a warm welcome from Fort Scott when she completed the Bike Across Kansas this summer.

Marci Francisco speaks about the state treasurer position she is vying for.

Francisco is a 4th generation Kansan,  had a career at KU,  was on the  Lawrence City Commission in 1979, mayor of Lawrence from ’81-’83, has non-profit involvement,  serves as a tax partner for a small business, State Senator from 2004-2018 serving on the ways and means and assessment and tax committee.

“The state treasurer has the responsibility for overseeing the receipts and expenditures of the state. We should ask for those reports to be placed on the website and ….provide search tools for those reports.”

She said the recent governors have spent more than the state took in. She wants to promote financial literacy and also help return unclaimed property.

 

Commissioner of Insurance: Two candidates answered questions at the forum.

Although not present, candidate Clark Shultz sent a spokesperson to say to the forum that Schultz is pro-life, pro 2nd Amendment and has Insurance experience, served in the  House and Senate and is currently the state assistant insurance commissioner.

Candidate Vickie Schmidt is married, has two sons and two grandsons, has been a pharmacist for 40 years, and is a Kansas Senator representing Shawnee County and Wabaunsee county. “I know first hand what our rising health care costs have done to our families and our seniors.

Nathaniel McLaughlin said he came to Kansas in 1983…The Kansas State emblem caught his attention..a picture with a man with hands on the plow. His background is hard work, faith in God and respect for neighbor.

Vickie Schmidt answers a question from the moderator, while Nathaniel McLaughlin listens.

The moderator asked the candidates to tell what the position does, with the following responses:

Schmidt: The Insurance Commissioner enforces the regulations that insurance companies are required to abide by and should be an advocate for citizens. She has a track record of fighting for taxpayers, she stated. She said she has the support of Bob Dole.

McLaughlin: Regulate, advocate and educate is the mission statement of the insurance commissioner.  McLaughlin has a business background with Marriott. He has a concern with the way Medicare is spent and said he would promote for private insurance.

Two candidates are in the Kansas Senate District 13 primary, Richard Hilderbrand and Bryan Hoffman.

Following is excerpts from their opening remarks at the forum:

Richard Hilderbrand has been the District 13 Senator for two years. There needs to be a fiscally accountable representative, and he believes he has been.

Bryan Hoffman said he was raised on a farm, is a carpenter,  is a rancher with100 head of cattle and has never been in politics.

Question 1: Funding the educational system?

Hoffman: Adequately fund the education system but hold them accountable.  We have been dismantled by the Brownback administration.

Hilderbrand:  The biggest cuts were pre-Brownback. There was a 13.5- percent cut in k-12 education by the governor at the time. We have to make sure the funding is going into the classroom. We have to improve our economy.

Question 2: Anything that can be done to lower property taxes?

Hilderbrand: The legislature must stop passing unfunded mandates to schools, cities, and counties, which puts the burden farther down the road.

Hoffman: We have given away 2.5 billion dollars that the citizens… have paid in federal taxes. We can use that to fund these things and still lower our property taxes. Better-paying jobs are needed in Kansas.

Question 2: Are you in support of funding abortions?

Hoffman: No

Hilderbrand: Absolutely not.

Closing remarks:

Hildebrand: The right to vote shouldn’t be taken for granted.  I do appreciate your vote. Look at previous voting records.

Hoffman: I will fight hard for Southeast Kansas, if I have a question about teachers, I’m going to call a teacher, etc.

Government, Kansas

Kansas Secretary of State Candidates Speak July 31 On Issues

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Craig McCullah answers questions while Keith Esau and Dennis Taylor listen.

The following are comments from the Kansas Secretary of State candidates at the forum held July 31 at Fort Scott High School.

Opening remarks:

Keith Esau: He has been a State Representative for six years from Olathe. He has a carerr of developing and designing comupter software. He believes  the position requires technology expertise and he would bring that.

Dennis Taylor: He is a businessman, was a county commissioner, ran the state dept. of labor and state dept. of administration, and ” nobody else in this race has those credentials.”

Craig Mccullah: Has been the deputy secretary of state.” we’ve saved the agency $400,000 a year.”  He made it “easier to start operating and growing your business in Kansas.”

Question 1: What is the extent of voter fraud in Kansas and what can be done about it?

Esau: Voter fraud is less frequent in Kansas.  Voter ID stopped much of voter fraud. There is prosecution now to deter voter fraud.

Taylor: No one really knows, because nobody checks.  We need to audit eligibility.

McCullah: He went through the 2016 Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center to become the first voter fraud investigator in the history of the secretary of state’s office, and found that there is some malicious double-voting.  Voter education is key.

Question 3: What can be done to streamline business filings in the state?

Taylor: Work on each agency doing ” its own thing.” More cooperation between agencies, less infighting.

McCullah:  He built a system form finder to simplify.  If elected he is going to streamline it further to where one only has to fill out a name once and pay all fees in one spot.

Esau:  He will make forms easier to use and share info between agencies. This is where his expertise lies. He wants to improve interface on the web.

Question 3: What is the most important function of the Secretary of State?

Craig:  Leadership to make it easier, and get out front of the problem before it happens.

Esau: Keep accurate records and make them accessible. He got a bill through to audit electronic ballot machines with a paper trail.

Taylor: Management and he has 30 years of management experience in private business and county and state government.

Closing remarks:

Esau: He is a software engineer, has been in the state legislature where he sponsored election bills for fair elections. A technology professional, he knows how to work with government and citizens.

Taylor: There is a need to audit elections, and back it up with paper ballots, and to verify systems security.

Mccullah:  He will  protect the electoral process. He sees the opportunity to make the state the best to do business in. He knows the strengths and weaknesses of the job and loves the agency.

Government

Make Your Voice Heard:Vote Aug. 7

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Submitted By: Lindsay Madison, Executive Director, and Shirley Palmer
Phone: Lindsay (620) 223-3566 or Shirley (620) 223-4105
Email: lindsay.madison

People Are Urged To VOTE

Election Day is a few short days away on Tuesday, August 7th and the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce would like to make sure your voice is heard loud and clear – but only you can make that happen. Only you can cast your vote!

In order to help you, here are some quick answers to your possible questions.

Can I vote in the August 7th Primary if I am registered as unaffiliated/independent? Yes, but when you go to your polling place, you must declare a party by filling out a voter registration card at that location as either Republican or Democrat. After you vote, you can always go to the courthouse at a later time and change your registration back to unaffiliated/independent.

Where do I vote? To find your polling place, please check with your county clerk or visit https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView/PollingPlaceSearch.do

How do I know if I am able to vote in this election? Visit https://myvoteinfo.voteks/org/VoterView/RegistrantSearch.do and look up your name.

May I still vote early? Yes. Voting early will end at noon on Monday, August 6th.

Where do I vote early in Bourbon County? At the Courthouse, 2nd floor by the County Clerk’s Office.

Why should I vote early? You can avoid crowds and long lines. It’s generally a quick and easy process. No need to worry about last-minute emergencies deterring you from getting to the polling place on August 7th. You don’t have to worry about maybe being bad weather on Tuesday, August 7th. Bragging rights. It feels good.

If you still have more questions. Your best resource for all election questions is your local election officer or County Clerk’s office. Give them a call and they will help!

In an election like this Primary, one vote really can make all the difference! A handful of votes could very well determine the course of our state for years to come.

The Primary Election in Kansas this year is expected to be the biggest turnout in the past 10 years. The high primary turnout prediction is also keyed by Advance Voting before Tuesday’s election day which is setting records each day.

Kansas has a very unique situation this year for a Primary Election. In many of the races, there are several good candidates for each office on both sides of the ticket (Republican and Democrat). Therefore, each vote is very important. Please exercise your “God-given Right” and Go Vote Tuesday, August 7th or before!

Government, Kansas

Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Teenagers: Lifting Young Families Toward Excellence

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KDHE Announces HHS Grant For Adolescents and Young Adults

The grant will be used for the Lifting Young Families Toward Excellence Program

 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has been awarded a $941,475 grant from the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Adolescent Health to provide parent education and life-skills support to pregnant and parenting teenagers and young adults through the Lifting Young Families Toward Excellence (LYFTE) project.

Key partners in delivering LYFTE services include the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation and Baby Talk Pregnancy and Newborn Education of Sedgwick County. Program goals include developing a support network for young parents and their families, integrating strategies that reinforce parenting skills and enhance family relationships, fostering the economic stability of young families through education completion and employment, and improving relationship-related skills among young parents.

A comprehensive process and outcome evaluation conducted by the University of Kansas Center for Public Partnerships and Research (KU-CPPR) will ensure accountability through quality improvement and performance monitoring throughout this project. Grant writing support for this application was also provided by KU-CPPR.

“The LYFTE project provides support for young families to navigate systems, achieve health goals and move toward self-sufficiency,” said Rachel Sisson, Director of the Bureau of Family Health at KDHE. “We are excited to partner with several communities across Kansas to help young families thrive.”

The HHS Office of Adolescent Health awards grants to provide education and life-skills supports through a competitive application and review process. The opportunity, formally known as Support for Expectant and Parenting Teens, Women, Fathers, and Their Families grants, provides funds for programs that implement evidence-based and evidence-informed practices to help young families live full, healthy lives.

Government, Kansas

Kansas House of Representative Candidates Answer Questions

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From left: Kenneth Collins, Trevor Jacob, and Lawrence Forbach listen while Adam Lusker has a turn answering a question from the moderator of the candidate forum.

The 2018 Candidate Forum took place at Fort Scott High School auditorium Tuesday night, July 31.

The forum lasted fours hours and featured 25 candidates from the national level to the county level. Tim McKenney was the moderator, Mark McCoy the timer.

This feature highlights excerpts from the Kansas House of Representative Candidates for District 2 and District 4.

District 2 Kansas House of Representative Candidates excerpts from opening remarks:

Adam Lusker is the current house representative, married,  three children, a lifelong resident of Southeast Kansas, Frontenac.

Kenneth Collins is a  military veteran, Air Force, and Army National Guard, divorced, Conservative, pro-life,  pro 2nd amendment.

District 4 Kansas House of Representative Candidates opening remarks excerpts:

Trevor Jacob is from Fort Scott,  and is pro-constitution, pro-life and is the current District 4 Representative.

Lawrence Forbach was an Eagle Scout, a Navy Veteran,  a retired union boilermaker, single, and lives in Mound City.

Question 1: Property Tax Relief?

Lusker: ” We changed last year, about 350 business owners. like my self, put back on the tax rolls… I think that will deal with some of the problems that the sheriff’s office or here in the county are dealing with, as well as local governments.”

Collins: ” I think we should look into it… cut waste from the budget…and bring more business to the state.”

Jacobs: “It’s a matter of being accountable for our spending…We need a vision change and a heart change.”

Forbach: “I don’t know that we can lower, but I think we make them more accountable… It’s not what you spend, it’s what you get for your money.”

Question 2: Are you in support of any tax dollars going toward the funding of abortions?

Collins  “Absolutely not.”

Jacobs: “Absolutely not.”

Forbach:  “I am pro-choice for women’s rights, but not with taxpayers dollars”.

Lusker: “No, I would not be in favor of  paying for that with state dollars.”

Question 3: Kansas Education Spending and how to fund it?

Jacobs: ” Right now Kansas spending on education is over 60 percent of the budget…I think the (local)school board and teachers and parents should have more involvement where that money is being allocated I think it’s best for local control”.

Forbach:  “Schools on a local level…are doing bond money to improve their schools, so there is stuff done on a local level…The schools on a state level need adequate funding…That’s where we need to make sure teachers have adequate funding.”

Lusker:  “I think we have made some incredible strides this past year to meet those funding needs… I think as money comes in, in the next few months, we’ll be able to fund our schools and meet that requirement…I’ve worked on a school board we stretched every dime we could… we need to give them the all the resources they need.”

Collins: “We should strive to keep funding on par with neighboring states…We are competing with neighboring states with taxes and education…Let local school boards decide what to do with the money they get… I would like to see our schools funded adequately.”

The candidates were allowed closing remarks:

Forbach: “We’ve heard doctors talk about hemp and the proceeds that could come from that, I’ve talked to some of the lobbyists on this and I ‘d like to see the tax revenues that come from this help schools with funds…and school lunches…There are students not having lunches.”

Jacobs: Quoted Ronald Reagan. “There are no easy answers but there are simple ones.”  He quoted the Bible,  “‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord”‘.” We need to be under the authority of God…  I  believe our rights come from God and not man… I believe in small limited government with accountability to the people.”

Collins: ” I’ve been talking to people…. in different communities. I am going to go talk to ….school boards, teachers, hospitals to see what they need… A state representative is a basic level of state government… The job of the representative is to represent the people.”

Lusker: “I own a masonry company in Frontenac for 25 years… In Topeka, I’ve served in leadership roles in my house minority party… Over the past five years, I have been able to bridge the aisle in the Kansas Legislature… He quoted John Glenn: Don’t tune out, cop out, or drop out don’t give into complacency or cynicism… concentrate building on what is good.”

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Candidates: Responses From the Forum

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People begin to file into the Fort Scott High School auditorium for the Candidate Forum July 31

The  2018 Candidate Forum July 31 at Fort Scott High School lasted fours hours and featured 25 candidates from the national level to the county level. Tim McKenney was the moderator, Mark McCoy the timer. The event was sponsored by the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce.

Four candidates are vying for Bourbon County Commission Dist. 1 and were allowed to respond to questions during the forum.

The current Bourbon County Attorney is running unopposed and was allowed a few minutes to give remarks.

Jackie Spradling is running unopposed for the Bourbon County Attorney position she has held since January.

Spradling has been a prosecutor for over 28 years, tried over 120 jury trials and 81 murder trials, she said.

“I stand proudly with Bill (Martin, Sheriff) and Travis (Shelton, Police Chief) and your law enforcement officers in fighting the crime in this community. We have filed more cases so far this year than was filed all of last year.  We have also filed more Child In Need Of Care cases so far this year than all of last year. We are trying to hold offenders accountable, protect people who have been victims of crime and take care of the babies and kids who can’t take care of themselves.”

The following are the questions posed to the Bourbon County Commission District 1 candidates and excerpts of their responses.

Opening remarks:

Lynn Oharah is 70-years-old,  has a wife and two daughters. He is a  veteran, retired from ATT as a manager, was the state representative for two years, USD 235 Board of Education member for 10 years and the current District 1 Commissioner two years. Management experience is what he has to offer in the position.

Clinton Walker is married, has two children and spent 22 years in the military, where he learned to manage people, budget, equipment, facilities, and buildings. “I think that I can make a difference and save taxpayer money,” Walker said.

Matt Crystal served in the military 25 years and moved back to help on the family farm. “Leadership, budgeting, construction is what he brings to the table,” Crystal said.

Robert Query is a  rancher and heavy equipment business owner. He served eight years as county commissioner. “I know how to do more, spend less,” Query said.

The candidates answered questions previously submitted to the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce.

Question 1: The Bourbon County Jail was approved by voters with a cost of approximately 6.4 million dollars, the price has now increased. How do you make sure projects stay on track and not go over budget?

Walker: “You’ve got to be involved in that project. Staying on a budget that’s not hard to do. If you don’t have the money, you don’t buy it…you don’t put it on credit card. ”

Crystal: “You have to stay involved as commissioners. More involved with a contractor that was going to oversee the entire project, so they could stay on track and stay on budget.”

Query: “Involvement with it from day one, when it was going out for bids, I was not for the jail in the first place. We are going to have to be responsible out there to look at every bill… and work with Bill (Sheriff Martin).”

Oharah: “Unforeseen material and labors costs went way up, but we stayed within the parameters of the question on the ballot.” If we didn’t build the jail we would be spending over $300,000 this year to house our prisoners, a total waste of taxpayer money.”

Question 2: Some counties are hiring a manager to handle the daily operations, do you think it makes sense to hire a county manager and then use non-paid elected commissioners to oversee his performance?

Crystal: “I can see some efficiencies in it, however, that’s what the commission is doing and that’s the commission’s job. You can’t manage the county one day a week, you have to be out there to see what else is going on. I don’t think the county could afford to pay a salary that the commission was elected to do.”

Query: “It would be another big salary, we already have too  many of those big salary employees at this time.”

Oharah: “I’m not in favor of a county manager. It’s the job of the county commissioners to oversee what is going on. I don’t take benefits from the county. I spend two and a half days a week looking at the county. The equipment we’ve bought has been a benefit to the county.”

Walker: “No it doesn’t make any sense to hire a manager. Lead from the front. I’ll be that leader.”

Question 3: How can you foster economic development in Bourbon County?

Query: “We had strategic planning to meet with us (when he formerly served on the Bourbon County Commission). I think it needs to be put back. The programs at the college are teaching welding and carpentry work and that can create jobs in this deal and that will help with economic development.”

Oharah: “Bourbon County is slated to lose population. We are putting the final touches on our Neighborhood Revitalization Plan. Which is going to give tax refunds for qualified construction projects for new and remodels on homes and farms and  businesses.”

Walker: “First,  stop buying new equipment, second, internet service we need to have that because you can’t have entrepreneurs come into the county without broadband.”

Crystal: “Airport expansion, could bring in a business. We can’t get people here fast enough. We need new blood, we need new thoughts and fresh ideas.”

Closing remarks by the candidates:

Oharah: “Reduce taxes through economic growth. We have implemented programs that should draw growth. We are Christian, pro-life, 2nd amendment supporters. Why run? I have a passion to see Bourbon County succeed and grow.”

Walker: “Number 1, debt. We don’t maintain vehicles. (in the county).We need to have a good maintenance program for this county. Buy with cash, I don’t want to pass this debt on to the next generation. I’ll manage personnel and equipment.”

Crystal: ” I want to serve my community. I’ll use my  25 years in the military, use that leadership expertise in order to improve  the services in the county.”

Query: ” Eight years experience is needed in the county.  We need to quit buying more than we can pay for. Bottom line, live within your means, we are the ones who pick up the tab.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

Statewide Broadband Mapping Project

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Governor’s Office Receives Grant for Statewide Broadband Mapping Project

 

 

TOPEKA—The Information Network of Kansas (“INK”) Board of Directors has approved a $300,000 grant request by Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. to complete a Statewide Broadband Mapping project.

 

The project, which will be undertaken by non-profit Connected Nation in partnership with the Governor’s Office, will prepare a statewide broadband map of wireline and wireless coverage. This map will provide the Statewide Broadband Expansion Planning Task Force, created when Governor Colyer signed Sen. Sub. for House Bill No. 2701 into law, with a snapshot of broadband coverage in the state. The map will assist the Task Force in its efforts to identify and close broadband coverage gaps in Kansas.

 

“Access to quality broadband services is vital for Kansas communities to compete for jobs and people, and we can’t improve what we don’t measure,” said Governor Colyer. “Producing this statewide broadband map positions our state for long-term growth in the rapidly expanding digital economy and helps us ensure that all Kansans are benefitting from these new opportunities.”

 

Connected Nation will produce a granular statewide broadband availability map through a data collection process in collaboration with the state’s broadband service providers, for use by the general public and the Task Force.  Connected Nation will also collect public feedback on the initial draft of the map and will deploy engineers into the field to validate service availability (or the lack thereof) based on the feedback received in order to improve the map over time.

 

“Just as roads, bridges, water systems, and the electrical grid serve as critical infrastructure today, so, too, is fast and reliable broadband access,” said Brent Legg, Vice President of Government Affairs at Connected Nation.  “Unfortunately, information collected on broadband at the federal level isn’t accurate or granular enough to effectively guide policymaking and get broadband to the areas that need it.  Governor Colyer recognized this need, and thanks to INK’s grant, we will now have the resources to identify and map the areas that still lack service across Kansas.”

 

In addition to tackling a number of broadband-related issues, the Task Force will evaluate and provide input to the mapping process based on preliminary feedback and results of Connected Nation’s work later this year.

 

“As Co-Chairs of the Statewide Broadband Expansion Planning Task Force, we strongly commend Governor Colyer for his initiative with this grant application and are excited to hear about the funding of the vital statewide broadband mapping project. This map will assist the Task Force as we work to expand broadband infrastructure and increase statewide access to broadband services for our fellow Kansans,” stated Senator Rob Olson and Representative Joe Seiwert, who also both chair their respective legislative chamber’s telecommunications issue committees.

 

Governor Colyer selected Rich Felts, President of Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB), as his at-large appointment to the Task Force. KFB was recently granted a waiver from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to challenge its Mobility Fund Phase II (MFII) eligibility map, which will determine where $4.53 billion in subsidies for LTE broadband service buildout will be directed across the country over the next 10 years. KFB is working with their members and Kansans from all over the state to conduct speed tests to show the need to increase the number of eligible areas in Kansas (see www.kfb.org/ConnectingKansas).

 

“Kansans in every county of the state know where the shortcomings on broadband connectivity reside,” KFB President Rich Felts said. “Having an up-to-date map that accurately reflects areas that lack connectivity in both wired and wireless broadband will allow for future broadband development to improve public safety, and enhance agricultural technology, education, telemedicine and economic vitality.”

 

In June, the Governor’s Office received another grant from the INK Board in the amount of $225,000 to conduct professional mobile service drive testing and file its own challenge to expand eligible areas under the FCC’s MFII program. Alongside KFB, the Governor’s Office will dispute areas that are currently considered ineligible for MFII buildout support. If the challenge is successful, it could potentially unlock millions of dollars in MFII support for LTE service buildout in rural Kansas. The Governor’s Office will be working with Connected Nation to administer the drive-testing process in targeted areas believed to have limited or no cellular service today.

 

Also in June, Governor Colyer appointed Stanley Adams as Director of Broadband Initiatives at the Kansas Department of Commerce to work on continuing to identify broadband needs and solutions across Kansas—focusing heavily on broadband access issues facing many rural areas across the state.

 

“It’s critical that we have good data to understand where gaps in broadband coverage exist, with a level of detail sufficient to develop effective strategies that will result in all Kansans having access to the high quality broadband services needed to grow our economy and enhance our competitiveness” stated Mr. Adams.

 

The first draft of the statewide broadband availability map will be ready by December 31.  Challenges to the FCC’s MFII eligibility map are currently due on August 27, although FCC Chairman Ajit Pai has signaled that the agency may extend the deadline to November 27.

 

Fort Scott, Government

Road Work on Wall Street Starts Aug. 6

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT NEWS RELEASE

August 1, 2018

Beginning on Monday, August 6th, 2018 (weather permitting) Killough Construction, in conjunction with the City of Fort Scott, will be milling and overlaying Wall Street from the east side of Highway 69 to Margrave Street.

With this asphalt work, there will be lane closures at certain intersections while crews perform grinding work to the asphalt surface.

During this time you may experience delays in travel and limited access to certain locations along this route. You are encouraged to avoid this route if at all possible. This work should be completed by the end of the day on Tuesday, August 7th, 2018.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.