Category Archives: Government

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Second Bourbon County Farm Classroom Planned

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Leadership at Fort Scott USD234 is partnering with Pittsburg-based nonprofit organization, Community GreenFarms (CGF), to bring an innovative farm classroom to the district.

The farm classroom projects being established by the nonprofit are located inside converted shipping containers outfitted with state-of-the-art hydroponic growing systems. Each unit is capable of producing nearly 500 heads of leafy greens per week, all
year round.

Once at the school, Agriculture and other teachers oversee students who manage the farm from seed to harvest, the majority of which is taken directly to the cafeteria and served in school meals. Schools may also choose to sell produce to restaurants or at farmers’ markets, donate it to nonprofits, or even send it home with
students for families to eat.

CGF was recently awarded a $1,000,000 grant from the Kansas Department of Children and Families to accelerate
their statewide farm-to-school program, the goal of which is to improve the health and habits of high school students at seven Southeast Kansas schools while teaching them new skills. The counties of focus are Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Labette, Linn, Montgomery, and Wilson. While each of these schools will have the cost of their farm classroom covered by the grant, projects in other counties were funded differently.

In Cherokee, Crawford, and Neosho counties, the nonprofit established farm classrooms through a grassroots fundraising
a campaign similar to the one planned for Fort Scott.

This is the second such project planned for Bourbon County, as Uniontown USD235 is being provided one through a grant opportunity. While both schools applied to be the recipient of the grant-funded farm classroom, Uniontown was ultimately the school district selected by CGF.

The leadership at Fort Scott still wanted to bring one to their district and have been in discussion with the nonprofit on how to get that accomplished.

The funds for the project will be raised through a community-wide fundraising effort and the writing of grants.

According to the nonprofit’s Executive Director, Matt O’Malley, the project has the potential to have an incredible impact on students and their schools. “Students who help run these farms get unique experiences that may lead to career paths in agriculture, education, nutrition, business management, or food services.

Not only that, but these farms produce a significant amount of fresh food for schools, in some cases completely eliminating the school’s
need to purchase sub-par lettuce from outside sources. The student-grown food is then introduced to the lunchroom which can change the eating habits and health of entire student populations.”

Uniontown’s farm classroom was delivered last week and is expected to be online in February. The fundraising campaign to bring the farm classroom to Fort Scott will begin immediately, hoping that theirs could be up and running by the spring semester.

For more information, visit the nonprofit’s Facebook page or website at
www.CommunityGreenFarms.org.
Matt O’Malley / picture attached /
Executive Director
Community Green Farms
c) 620-249-6353, o) 620-404-2812
[email protected]

Government, Kansas

Rural Hospital Leaders Discuss Medicaid Expansion

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Lieutenant Governor Toland, Rural Hospital Leaders Discuss Medicaid Expansion
Impacts on Local Economies


PARSONS— Today, Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland hosted a Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy roundtable at Labette Health in Parsons. Rural hospital leaders and legislators discussed the impacts Medicaid expansion would have on healthcare and the economy in Southeast Kansas.

“Rural hospitals play a key role in keeping both Kansas communities and local economies healthy,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “When our rural hospitals struggle, our businesses and workforce feel the impact. We must expand Medicaid so Kansans can access essential care, we can continue our unprecedented economic growth, and keep creating new jobs across the state.”

“Medicaid has been vital for people who have no resources for needed care,” said State Representative Ron Bryce. “Prior to becoming a state representative, I was a physician, providing care for the homeless, the working poor, and others in need. I know the workings of Medicaid first-hand from the point of view of the provider as well as the patient. We need to weigh the pluses as well as the minuses as we work to help those in need and improve the economy in southeast Kansas.”

“Access to health care is a vital component of economic development and a healthy local economy,” said Brian Williams, CEO of Labette Health. “Expanding Medicaid in Kansas would provide additional resources to hospitals allowing increased access to health care. As a Republican voter, I fully support Governor Kelly’s economic initiative to expand Medicaid for Kansans.”

Here’s how expanding Medicaid would benefit rural hospitals and the economy:

  • Medicaid expansion is associated with improved hospital financial performance and significant reductions in the probability of hospital closure, especially in rural areas.
  • The retention of even smaller than average sized hospital or nursing facility in a rural community creates economic ripples that sustain local grocery stores, eating places, and retailers.
  • Quality health care has been shown to improve business productivity, aid in the recruitment and retention of businesses, and attract and retains retirees.
  • Kansas does not save money by refusing expansion — it simply gives up the opportunity to bring tax dollars back to our state. Kansans have already paid nearly $7 billionin federal taxes to fund Medicaid expansion in other states.

Roundtable participants included:

  • State Representative Ron Bryce, R-Coffeyville
  • State Representative Dan Goddard, R-Parsons
  • Ruth Duling, CEO, Girard Hospital
  • Brian Williams, CEO, Labette Health
  • Tom Hood, CEO, Wilson Medical Center
  • Former State Representative Jim Kelly, R-Independence

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Fort Scott, Government

Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission for November 12

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

Minutes of November 21, 2023                                       Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held November 21, 2023 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, K. Harrington, E. Woellhof, and M. Guns were present with Mayor M. Wells.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INVOCATION:  E. Woellhof led the Pledge of Allegiance and said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, Jason Pickert/Chief of Police, Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director, Tammy Matkin, Shane Lamb, Kevin Allen.

 

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:

  1. Wells stated there are (2) amendment requests for the submitted agenda. 1. ADDITION TO CONSENT AGENDA – requested by Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering and Inspection to add a request to pay Invoice #10052302 from EPEC for the UV Upgrade – $286,540.20 to be Item F and 2. ADDITION TO OLD BUSINESS – requested by Matthew Wells for approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Fort Scott Pavilion recommended by the Design Review Board on November 21, 2023 to be Item F and B. Matkin requested that Kevin Allen be extended additional time to address the Commission under Public Comments.

 

  1. VanHoecke asked if the (2) items that came in late could wait until the next meeting or if they were an emergency. M. Wells stated that the Old Business item is for the Fort Scott Pavilion and needed to be approved so that construction and drilling could begin on the project immediately. T. VanHoecke asked B. Matkin if he was aware of the additions.  B. Matkin stated that he was only made aware of the pavilion item after the Design Review Board meeting that afternoon and that (the drilling) had already started.

 

  1. Harrington moved to approve the amended agenda. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE AMENDED AGENDA

 

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

– Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 7, 2023, and Minutes of Special Meeting of November 13, 2023.

 

– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1348-A – $257,614.70

 

– Request to Pay – Gilmore & Bell – Invoice #8052257 – Preparation of transcript documents, assembly of transcripts, bond printing, and examination of transcript and rendering approving opinion, in relation to the issuance of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023 for $4,925,000 to the City of Fort Scott Matter No. 600234.2003 – Amount due – $25,000.00.

 

– Change Order No. 3 – 17th & Eddy Storm Water Project – widen west 15th at National for approximately 85 feet to straighten the BOC with the entrance to True Value. Increase of $10,000.00 approved by City Manager 11/15/2023 to ensure continuation of work – B. Matkin

 

– October Financials

 

  1. Wells asked B. Matkin about the Franchise Fees for the cell services. B. Matkin stated that he has researched it and is currently working with the City Attorney on this item.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the Consent Agenda with the addition of Item F for the request to pay EPEC $286,540.20 for the UV upgrade. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA WITH ADDITION OF ITEM F.

 

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

 

Kevin Allen – M. Wells called K. Allen to the podium to speak with no time limit as requested. K. Allen addressed the Commission to request that the City invest in the community by helping financially with his improvements to Aunt Toadies with a grant. He stated that Aunt Toadies is currently the only restaurant on the East side of town. The improvements would be (Phase I) to replace outdated kitchen equipment, (Phase II) renovating the home behind the restaurant to be used for reserved seating area, and (Phase III) to build a Pickleball Court.

 

Discussion was had about options. K. Allen was directed to request the Small Business Incentive Program that will hopefully be approved this evening and hopefully be the first applicant and potential model recipient.

 

OLD BUSINESS:

                                                     

Approval of 2024 City of Fort Scott Holiday Schedule

  1. Matkin stated that the (2) changes to the current year’s schedule are the addition of a floating holiday and October 14th. M. Guns moved to approve the 2024 City of Fort Scott Holiday Schedule as submitted.           E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE 2024 CITY OF FORT SCOTT HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

 

Approval of Common Consumption Ordinance for the City of Fort Scott- Historic Downtown District

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Ordinance No. 3756 Expanding the Common Consumption Area. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED ORDINANCE NO. 3756 EXPANDING THE EXISTING COMMON CONSUMPTION AREA.

 

Approval of amended parking lot lease for DCF building

  1. Harrington moved to accept the first amendment to the lease between Silverrock Ventures LLC and the City of Fort Scott, Kansas. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE LEASE BETWEEN SILVERROCK VENTURES LLC AND THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

Consideration of bids for window replacements of Gunn Park Shelter Houses 2 & 6 – Tabled from 11-7-2023.

  1. VanHoecke moved to accept the low bid from Home Depot for $8,976.00 without tax and not installed. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ACCEPT THE LOW BID FROM HOME DEPOT FOR $8,976.00.

 

Consideration Small Business Incentive Program – M. Wells

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the program as changed (in the work session). M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE SMALL BUSINESS INCENTIVE PROGRAM

 

Consideration of approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Fort Scott Pavilion

  1. Harrington moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness for the Fort Scott Pavilion. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS FOR THE FORT SCOTT PAVILION.

 

 

APPEARANCES:

 

Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director addressed the Commission to update that the Proteus Probe was received on November 8th, 2023. A meeting was held for training by Zoom on November 15th, 2023. They have begun using the probe since and collecting data. The results of the probe readings from 11/15/2023, 11/16/2023, 11/18/2023, and 11/22/2023 and an ADM Quantity and Consistency Report from 1/2022 – 9/2023 were distributed to the Commission for discussion.

 

Jason Pickert/Chief of Police addressed the Commission regarding the grant for $18,000.00 that was awarded to purchase body-worn cameras.

 

Shane Lamb addressed the Commission to request an update on his request for abatement of all mowing assessments from his property previously known as The Fort Scott Manor. He stated he is coming before them tonight to get a clear title to close with his bank during the first week of December to begin construction on a 22-unit rental. M. Wells asked if S. Lamb would be able to provide a financial commitment from his bank.  Mr. Lamb agreed. Further discussion was had on previous requirements needed and requested from the Commission.  T. VanHoecke checked the November 15, 2022, minutes for the amount owed that was recorded.  The history of the request was reviewed.  M. Wells stated that if S. Lamb could provide a financial commitment from his bank, he felt confident that we could move forward with waving the special assessment fees.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the request to waive the special assessment fees up to $9,000.00 for the Fort Scott Manor property once the required permits are obtained, approval by the Fire Marshall and financial commitment papers are submitted by Shane Lamb. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO WAIVE THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT FEES UP TO $9,000.00 FOR THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY KNOWN AS THE FORT SCOTT MANOR AFTER THE REQUIRED PERMITS ARE OBTAINED AND APPROVAL FROM THE FIRE MARSHALL AND THE FINANCIAL COMMITMENT STATEMENT IS RECEIVED BY THE CITY.

 

 

 

 

NEW BUSINESS:  

 

Consideration of City Manager contract –   M. Wells stated that he is happy to inform citizens that the current City Manager, Brad Matkin has acquiesced to the Commission’s request to stay on and help continue to guide our city into the future.   M. Wells stated he is looking for a motion and a second to move forward with the contract to keep Brad here for the foreseeable future.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the revised City Manager contract for Bradley L. Matkin for the City of Fort Scott with the one item that was added which was regarding performance metrics. M. Wells seconded. seconded. T. VanHoecke, M. Guns and M. Wells voted yes.
  2. Harrington and E. Woellhof voted nay.

 

APPROVED THE REVISED CITY MANAGER CONTRACT FOR BRADLEY L. MATKIN FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT INCLUDING THE ADDITIONAL ITEM PERTAINING TO PERFORMANCE METRICS.

 

Discussion was had between Commissioners regarding the contract.

 

Consideration of Letter of Interest for Danny Craig to the Parks Advisory Board

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Danny Craig for a position on the Parks Advisory Board. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO APPOINT DANNY CRAIG FOR A (3) YEAR TERM ON THE PARK ADVISORY BOARD.

 

Consideration of 2023 Christmas Parade Permit

  1. Wells moved to approve the application for the 2023 Christmas Parade Permit. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE APPLICATION FOR THE 2023 CHRISTMAS PARADE PERMIT.

 

Consideration of Change Order No. 3 – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 22-PF-016-2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Final measured quantities – Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering and Inspection requested approval of the final change order contingent upon CDBG’s approval.  T. VanHoecke moved to accept the change order for the 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer project and the amount of a reduction of $14,727.00.  K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED CHANGE ORDER NUMBER (3) FROM BENNETT, INC. PERTAINING TO FINAL MEASURED QUANTITIES FOR THE 2022 CDBG SANITARY SEWER PROJECT, AND THE REDUCTION OF $14,727.00.

 

Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 22-PF-016 – 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 6 (Final) – $164,623.89

  1. Guns moved to approve final payment number (6) in the amount of $164,623.89 to Bennett Construction for the CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project contingent on the CDBG final approval. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO PAY BENNETT, INC $164,623.89 AS FINAL PAYMENT FOR THE 2022 CDBG SANITARY SEWER PROJECT. RELEASE OF PAYMENT IS CONTINGENT UPON FINAL APPROVAL FROM CDBG.

 

  1. Matkin thanked the citizens for their cooperation during the sewer project and stated that Bennett, Inc. is “top-notch” and was great to work with as a contractor with excellent communication. M. Wells and J. Dickman agreed.

 

Consideration to go out for bid of Lake Fort Scott boat ramp – B. Matkin stated that according to the City’s Purchasing Policy, we will need to go out for bids for the boat ramp repair, but it will need to be a short bidding time due to winter weather coming.  B. Farmer stated that bids are not required for this project because it is a maintenance project.  B. Matkin stated he would like to follow the Purchasing Policy and go out for bid.

 

  1. Wells moved to go out for bid for the Lake Fort Scott boat ramp repair work with bids to be opened in one week and engineered by the contractor. Bid was struck. Commission directed B. Matkin to go out for bids.

 

Consideration to combine CCLIP US-54 Projects – Funds to come from the individual departments.  J. Dickman explained that combining Phase I and Phase II of the project, instead of doing them separately. He stated that the state wants to execute the agreement for Phase I and then the city will apply for Phase II with a supplemental agreement if the Commission agrees to combine the projects. This will push the project to bid in the summer of 2025. J. Dickman stated that the benefit of combining the projects has benefits on the construction side with efficiency, cost, and timing. He explained the future of the project.

 

  1. Wells moved to combine the CCLIP US-54 projects Phase I and Phase II. K. Harrington seconded.

 

APPROVED TO COMBINE THE CCLIP US-54 PROJECTS PHASE I AND PHASE II.

 

Further discussion was had about the benefits of combining the projects.

 

Lake Properties discussion – T. VanHoecke stated that a complaint was made to him and the City Manager from a Lake resident, regarding an individual who was using city-owned property (at the lake) to run a business. Equipment was left parked there and the appearance is not right.  T. VanHoecke went to check out the complaint and there appears to be more than one instance.  He met with the City Attorney for options. T. VanHoecke would like to have the Commission direct the City Manager to work with Earles Engineering to finish surveying (6) lake lots that are currently in progress and then have the Commission consider the properties’ futures. He stated that there are also second-tier properties to consider as well. He suggested that the sale of the lots could possibly be a resource for economic development funds, housing funds, Memorial Hall repair funds and possibly take some of the work off city crews who are maintaining those spaces. He asked the Commission to think about it and possibly bring it back to discussion at the next meeting. He also asked the Commission to support having Earles Engineering complete the surveying of (6) lots already in progress to determine what to do with all the land that is at the lake and not currently benefiting the city.

 

Further discussion was had about the history of the lake properties and considerations to keep in mind, sewer requirements and possible violations, annexation, and Lake Fund usage.  J. Dickman commented on lake lots and options for the Commission’s consideration.

 

  1. VanHoecke left the room and returned.

 

  1. Woellhof left the room and returned.

 

City Manager comments

Engineer’s comments

Commissioner comments

City Attorney’s comments

 

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:00PM. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:00PM

 

Next Meeting:

REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING – Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at 6:00PM

 

 

Submitted by:

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Fort Scott, Government

Agenda of the Fort Scott City Commission for December 5

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR        

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

CITY HALL COMMISSION ROOM – 123 SOUTH MAIN ST.

December 5, 2023 – 6:00 P.M.

 

 

 

  1.   Roll Call:
  2.     VanHoecke       K. Harrington      E. Woellhof        M. Guns         M. Wells
  3.   Pledge of Allegiance & Invocation:  M. Wells

III.    Approval of Agenda:

  1. Consent Agenda:
  2. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 21, 2023
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1349-A – $573,833.97
  4. Request to Pay – EPEC – Invoice #11202301 – Phase II Aeration Upgrade – $537,301.70
  5. Request to Pay – J. Richardson Construction – Project No. 21-307 – 17th & Eddy Stormwater Improvements – Payment Application No. 7, period ending 11/13/2023 – $17,778.77
  6. Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. – Project No. 23-005B – Infantry Substation Sanitary Sewer Relocation – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 1 –    $172,482.75
  7. Request to Pay – Nowak Construction Co., Inc. – Project No. 22-305 – South Industrial Waterline Extension – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 1,     period ending 11/29/2023 – $119,472.30
  8. Approval of Ordinance No. 3757 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FORT SCOTT STORMWATER USER CHARGE AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3597 FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS, PURSUANT TO THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE, CHAPTER 13.24.121
  9. Approval of Ordinance No. 3758 – AN ORDINANCE SETTING NEW WATER RATES AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3755 FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS, PURSUANT TO THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE, CHAPTER 13.04.030
  10. I. Approval of Ordinance No. 3759 – AN ORDINANCE INCREASING THE BASIC MONTHLY CHARGE FOR SANITARY SEWER RATES IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT BY AMENDING CHAPTER 13.24.100 AND 13.24.110 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 3596
  11. Public Comment:   Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda

and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.

 

  1. Old Business:

 

  1. Advisory Boards Update – B. Matkin
  2. Lake Property Continued Discussion – T. VanHoecke

 

VII.    Appearances:

  1. Christin and Chad Young from Lawrence, KS – Request to hold Tent Revival Event at Memorial Hall
  2. Seth Needham – Cub Scout Pack 114 Soapbox Derby – Good Ol’ Days 2024
  3. Kirk Sharp – Kansas Museum Conference 2024
  4.  New Business: 
  5. Consideration of Water Crane rates for 2024
  6. Consideration of CD bids for reinvestment
  7. Consideration of 2024 MOU – IT Support for City of Fort Scott – Shared Services with Bourbon County
  8. Consideration of January 2, 2024, and January 16, 2024, City Commission Meetings

 

  1. Reports and Comments:
  2. City Manager Comments:
  3. Engineering Comments:
  4. Commissioners Comments:
  5. VanHoecke –
  6. Harrington –
  7. Woellhof –
  8. Guns –
  9. Wells –

 

  1. City Attorney Comments:
  2.  Executive Session:

XII.     Adjournment:

 

Next regular meeting scheduled:  Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at 6:00PM

Government, Kansas

Recommendations From Kansas Wildlife Task Force

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Governor Kelly Receives Final Report and Recommendations from Wildfire Task Force

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the Governor’s Wildfire Task Force has submitted its final report summarizing and providing recommendations on how to improve the systems, procedures, and personnel that make up the state’s oversight of wildfire events.

In July 2022, Governor Laura Kelly appointed a group of leaders from across the state to serve as the Governor’s Wildfire Task Force to create recommendations for how Kansas communities can better prevent, respond to, and recover from wildfires.

“I created this Task Force last year because Kansas has been devastated by wildfires far too many times, and it was clear we needed to take a deeper look at how we prevent and respond to these disasters,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I appreciate the comprehensive recommendations Secretary Beam and the Wildfire Task Force have provided, and I look forward to working together to better support Kansans before, during, and after wildfires.”

The Task Force was chaired by Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam and included representatives from local, state, and federal agencies and organizations that have played an active role in responding to wildfires across the state, along with several state legislators.

“I have appreciated the candid, yet cordial, exchange of concerns and suggestions among the Task Force members,” said Secretary Beam. “It’s obvious to me the entities involved in wildfire prevention, response, and recovery have enhanced their collaborations and partnerships in recent years, and they are committed to taking further steps to strengthen the state’s wildfire resilience.”

The Task Force report is organized into three sections: Mitigation and Prevention, Response, and Recovery. In the Mitigation and Prevention section, the Task Force examines the efforts in place to monitor fire risk, major contributors to the fire risk across the state, and work that is underway to mitigate that risk. The Response section examines the response plans and systems in place locally and statewide and how they could be strengthened. The Recovery section examines the strategies for long-term recovery following a wildfire event.

Recommendations include expanding efforts to reduce fuel loads, improving weather monitoring, increasing resources for local fire departments, and enhancing funding for firefighting equipment. Many recommendations focus on the importance of mitigation strategies, recognizing it as a shared responsibility that will require collaboration between public and private landowners. The Task Force also recognized the significant role of volunteer firefighters and the challenges local communities face in recruiting and retaining these volunteers.

State officials will now determine next steps for implementing Task Force’s recommendations.

The full report can be found here or at agriculture.ks.gov/WildfireTaskForce.

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Bourbon County, Food, Government, Kansas, Uncategorized

Perry’s Awarded Southeast Kansas Region Award of Merit

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Thaddeus and Kelly Perry, owners of Perry’s Pork Rinds. Submitted photo.

Thaddeus and Kelly Perry, owners of Perry’s Pork Rinds and Country Store, Bronson, were recently awarded the Southeast Kansas Region Award of Merit from the Kansas Department of Commerce.

“Both Thaddeus and I saw it as an honor to be nominated,” Kelly Perry said. “I have no idea who nominated us. I literally cried when I received the notice letter. It’s very humbling that the community continues to support us.”

“The store has brought people in, that are traveling through,” she said. “We have a lot of folks who just want to check us out”

When people stop in the store they advocate for the community and Fort Scott,  telling them about the attractions and services that are available, she said.

In a letter from Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, she commended the Perrys for their outstanding retail service.

The award is through the 2023 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards.

“Celebrating your business and its outstanding contributions to the community, state economy, and people of Kansas,” the letter stated. “Your hard work is appreciated and worthy of recognition.”

The business was nominated because it created jobs, products, and services, and has been innovating and diversifying the local marketplace, building community identity, and more, according to the governor’s letter.

The business demonstrated “tenacity, determination, and creativity that was needed to persevere, regardless of the circumstances,” Governor Kelly said in the letter.

The Perrys started out producing pork rind snacks from their home in Bronson, a small town of 300 people in western Bourbon County, in 2017.

They opened a  specialty store in 2022 in Bronson to sell their products and other food, including fresh produce, which is needed when one lives 20 miles from a large grocery store.

To learn more: Fresh Produce Pre-Order Sales Began This Month In Bronson

“We also now have Perry’s Produce Boxes available one time a month,” Kelly said.   “Pick-up is at Bids & Dib (in Fort Scott). Purchases are all done via our website www.PerrysPorkRinds.com and customers can select pick-up in Bronson or Ft. Scott.  Boxes are each just $18 and usually have double that amount of money worth of produce.  Pick up details on our website and FB page.”

One other specialty food is fudge, made on-site.

“The fudge is made by Dee Byrd and I,” Kelly said.

In October 2023 they opened a Recreational Vehicle Park at their site on Hwy. 54, which runs through the town. This venture is to supply accommodations for agri-tourism to the region.

To learn more: Perry’s Open an RV Campground in Bronson

This month they provided honor meals to 59 veterans in their storefront on Veteran’s Day. “We provided brisket, smoked by Thaddeus, loaded baked potatoes, and baked beans. We plan to do this again next year,” she said.

They currently have five full-time and one part-time employee.

 

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott House Fire on November 25

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House fire on November 25 from the Fort Scott Fire Department Facebook page.
The Fort Scott Fire Department was dispatched to 218 Horton late Saturday evening, November 25,  to a report of a structure fire, according to the FSFD Facebook page.

The fire alarm was received at 10:36,  and the  fire was under control at 10:59 p.m., according to FS Fire Chief Dave Bruner.

The fire scene was cleared by 1:20 a.m.

Nine FSFD personnel responded to the fire.

Crews arrived on the scene of a fully involved structure fire.
A defensive fire attack was made due to the fire already being through the roof and 80% of the home was on fire.
“Fire crews did an amazing job getting the blaze under control before it could cause damage or spread to neighboring homes,” according to the Facebook post.
Crews battled the blaze until the early morning hours.
The cause of the fire is currently being investigated by FSFD investigators along with assistance from the Kansas State Fire Marshal.
Unfortunately, the home is a total loss and the tenant lost a couple of pets.
Thankfully the tenant was able to escape and was transported by Bourbon County Emergency Medical Services for evaluation.
The fire department wishes to thank the Fort Scott Police Department and the Bourbon County EMS for their assistance.
The Fort Scott Fire Department fights a fire on November 25, 2023. From its Facebook page.
Government, Kansas

State Seeks Input on New License Plate Design

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Governor Kelly Announces New Path Forward on State License Plate

~~Rescinds License Plate Proposal, Will Establish Public Input Process~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Department of Revenue will pause production on the license plate design revealed last Wednesday and create a process to receive public input before selecting a final design.

“I promised to be a bipartisan governor, and I think we can all admit – I succeeded at bringing Kansans across the political aisle together in disliking this new license plate,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “I’ve heard you loud and clear. Elected officials should be responsive to their constituents, which is why we are adjusting the process so Kansans can provide direct input on our state’s next license plate.”

One of the challenges of designing a license plate is meeting the primary reason license plates exist: to be clear and easy to read. Kansans will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite design among several that follow guidelines that comply with the needs of law enforcement entities and best practices established by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, including:

  • License plate numbers will be seven (7) digits.
  • Any phrase, motto, or slogan must be placed at the bottom of the license plate.
  • Any graphic must be placed on the right or left side of the license plate number.
  • Graphics must not resemble letters, numbers, or special characters in a way that would interfere with the ability to read the license plate number.
  • Background design must not interfere with the ability to read the license plate number.
  • The license plate must have a light background behind the license plate number, and the license plate number must be black.

The Governor’s Office will share more details on license plate options, the voting process, and how this announcement impacts the transition from embossed to print-on-demand plates soon.

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Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Capitol Tours
The Honorable Sheila Frahm of Colby

Ken Frahm of Colby

Reagan Geihsler of Manhattan

Collin Geihsler of Manhattan

Dan Arthur of Overland Park

Amy Arthur of Overland Park

Ainsley Arthur of Overland Park

Aniston Arthur of Overland Park

Avelyn Arthur of Overland Park

Simon Werner of Overland Park

Ling Werner of Overland Park

Benjamin Werner of Overland Park

Abigail Werner of Overland Park

AJ Kurtz of Overland Park

Lauren Edwards of Overland Park

Adalyn Kurtz of Overland Park

Jude Kurtz of Overland Park

Dean Kurtz of Overland Park

Daleroy Davey of Olathe

Maci Davey of Olathe

Marques Davey of Olathe

Christina Schabel & Family of Andover


 

 

 


A Season for Thankfulness
Happy Thanksgiving! Robba and I hope everyone had a happy and blessed holiday surrounded by friends, family and loved ones.

We also want to extend our thanks to law enforcement officers, first responders and servicemembers who never cease to serve their communities and country during the holiday seasons. Thank you for your continual sacrifices and for keeping us safe.

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More Space Manufacturing Coming to Kansas
On Monday, I hosted Robert Lightfoot, Executive Vice President of Lockheed Martin Space, in Kansas. During the visit, we toured a division of Perfekta Aerospace where Lockheed announced a contract for the company to provide parts for its Orion Spacecraft, as well as components for its defense programs. The Greater Wichita Partnership (GWP) also hosted an event at WSU Tech’s National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) for local manufacturers, academia and community leaders to meet with Lockheed Martin.

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Thank you to Robert and his team for visiting the Air Capital of the World and sharing the importance Kansans are playing in space and defense programs. Thank you also to Jeff Fluhr and his team at GWP for their leadership and to the many Kansans who helped make their visit a success.

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Expanding Rural Health Care in Southeast Kansas
Monday afternoon I stopped at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute to participate in the ribbon cutting for the new Southeast Kansas Impact Center. This $7.1 million facility houses a workforce training center that will operate in partnership with local businesses and medical providers to better deliver telehealth treatment to area patients. The 10,000 square foot multi-use business, workforce and health care center was built on the site of a former tuberculosis hospital and is expected to create 256 jobs and generate $45 million for the local economy.

I am pleased to have helped secure an investment of more than $4 million from the Economic Development Administration for the SEK Impact Center. Thank you to Hospital CEO Dennis Franks and Foundation Director Anna Methvin for inviting me to join in this exciting community celebration. Thank you also to Dorothy Welch, Kansas Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary Nadira Hazim-Patrick, Lead Engineer Alison Mih, NMRMC Foundation Chair Bruce Jackson, NMRMC Foundation Secretaruy Bruce Mullen, Neosho County Commissioner Nick Galemore, and Chanute Mayor Jacob LaRue for joining me.

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Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Annual Convention
It was great to be with members of the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD) in Wichita for their 78th annual convention on Monday evening. This group is committed to conserving our natural resources—efforts that are critical to preserving Kansas for the next generation. Water conservation and natural resource management is particularly important to our economy and quality of life. Water is the lifeblood of our municipalities, the foundation for statewide recreation, and will direct the future of manufacturing and agriculture production. During my remarks I discussed Farm Bill reauthorization and conservation issues across the state, including the importance of establishing long-term solutions that support the water needs of the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and the regional economy.

Thank you to KACD Executive Director and Chairman Dan Meyeroff for inviting me to speak as well as the many members of KACD I was able to visit with.

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Nestor Weigand Jr.’s Funeral
This week I attended the funeral for Nestor Weigand Jr. in Wichita. Nestor was a giant in the real estate industry and made a huge difference in people’s lives including my own.

After his passing, Mike McGrew, the Chairman & CEO of McGrew Real Estate stated the following to me, and I couldn’t agree more: “Nestor has been the patriarch of the Kansas REALTOR family for decades. He was an amazing mentor to myself and so many others. His leadership in business and real estate was surpassed only by his generous gifts of wise counsel and time spent. Nestor cannot be replaced, and I will miss him for the rest of my life.”

Read more about Nestor’s life in the Wichita Business Journal, here.

Visiting Hospitals Across Kansas
Ellsworth County Medical Center
On Tuesday, I visited Ellsworth County Medical Center (ECMC), a Critical Access Hospital that provides important health care services to the Ellsworth community and surrounding area. During the tour, I learned more about challenges facing ECMC and how medical and support staff are working to meet the needs of the community. The insight and experiences from Kansas hospitals, their administrators and staff are important to me as I work to support the health care industry in Kansas and across the nation.

Thank you to ECMC CEO Jim Kirkbride and his team for arranging my visit.  Thank you also to Callie Haxton and Colby Richard from the City of Ellsworth as well as Mark Kennedy and John Thaemert from Citizens State Bank & Trust for joining me.

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Sheridan County Hospital
On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to visit Sheridan County Hospital where I met with hospital staff and administrators to learn more about health care in Hoxie. I am grateful to those who showed me around the facility and for expressing the priorities and needs of the hospital and the communities it serves. Rural hospitals throughout Kansas are facing staff and equipment shortages and even closures. I will continue to prioritize the sustainability and success of Kansas’s rural hospitals, and I am grateful to Sheridan County Hospital and the Sheridan County Health Complex for the incredible work they do.

Thank you to Sheridan County Hospital Board President Joy Bretz, clinic manager and Sheridan County Commissioner Kyle Ablenstorf and board members Leanna Sloan, Teri Moss, and Sally Cameron for joining me on the tour.

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Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital
Later on Wednesday, I toured the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney with CEO Jeremy Rabe and Hospital Board Chair Eric Moden. I was pleased to see the expansion of services and patient care that Trego County has been able to provide their residents. Maintaining reliable and high-quality health care is critically important to see our communities thrive. I appreciated the time I was able to spend learning about the facility and am thankful to those who took the time to give me a tour.

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

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

Very truly yours,

Jerry

To unsubscribe from this newsletter, please click here.
Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401		 Manhattan
1800 Kimball Avenue,
Suite 270
Manhattan, KS 66052
Phone: (785) 539-8973
Fax: (785) 587-0789		 Olathe
23600 College Blvd.,
Suite 201
P.O. Box 1154
Olathe, KS 66061
Phone: (913) 393-0711
Fax: (913) 768-1366
Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building
Room 521
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-6521
Fax: (202) 228-6966		 Wichita
100 North Broadway,
Suite 210
Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: (316) 269-9257
Fax: (316) 269-9259

Garden City
1511 East Fulton Terrace, Suite 1511-2
Garden City, KS 67846
Ph
Bourbon County, Government

Draft Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on November 14

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The Regular Council Meeting on November 14, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Zach Snyder and Stevie Amos (Thomas Construction), Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, City Superintendent Bobby Rich and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Placemaking Project – bid opening – this is for 34’ X 65’ X 6” pickleball court, 2 bids received, Rogers & Sons Concrete, $18,430 and Marbery Excavation & Hauling, $20,650.  Bid tabulation attached.

Uniontown Park Enhancement Project Bid Tab

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept bid from Rogers & Sons Concrete in the amount of $18,430

 

Clerk Johnson stated that acknowledgement for the BCBS Pathways Grant of $10,000 was received, needs signed, and returned.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to authorize Sally Johnson to sign the BCBS Pathways Grant acknowledgement and return

 

Pond Project – bid opening – this for Phase II of riprapping bank, 3 bids received, Rogers & Sons Concrete, $13,500; Marbery Excavation & Hauling, $6.680; and Thomas Construction Inc, $28,024.  Bid tabulation attached.

Uniontown School Pond Improvement Phase II Project Bid Tab

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept bid from Marbery Excavation & Hauling in the amount of $6,680

 

Clerk Johnson has ordered/received weed barrier.  She ordered one designed to go under driveways this time.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the October 2023 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $395,312.22, Receipts $37,931.52, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $27,043.25, Checking Account Closing Balance $393,424.49. Bank Statement Balance $399,580.44, including Checking Account Interest of $84.55, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $6,155.95, Reconciled Balance $393,424.49.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,433.01, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,939.88, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,710.66, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $480,508.04. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $798.19, and Utility CDs $682.57 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,480.76.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of October 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $562.50, Expenditures $562.50, Ending Balance $0.  October Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500.00; for Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of October $1,887.73, Year-to-Date Net Income $49,872.52.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $100,111.61 (81.9%), Expenditures $94,509.42 (59.0%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $31,115.85 (84.4%), Expenditures $25,225.57 (61.3%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $112,721.15 (72.0%), Expenditures $111,228.80 (49.4%); General Fund YTD Revenue $156,439.58 (104.5%), Expenditures $133,070.97 (71.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,152.71 (109.3%), Expenditures $6,183.82 (52.9%).  The November 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $185,122.07 were presented which includes invoice for street resurfacing.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda as amended:

  • Minutes of October 10, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance and job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:55.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance and job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:20.

 

Clerk Johnson called in at 8:00, out at 8:15.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance and job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:52.

 

Johnson called in at 8:25, out at 8:52.  Open meeting resumed at 8:52.  Council asked if schedule a special meeting for executive session for non-elected personnel could they also include discussion of the council pay ordinance. Yes, they can.  They would like to have meal provided for special meeting.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to schedule a special meeting for November 27, 6PM, to dicuss ordinance regulating council pay and executive session for non-elected personnel exception.

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported that the incoming water valve is not closing completely.  He is currently shutting off the master meter when the pump is not running.  He has replaced the solenoid which was also leaking.  Can’t find anyone to work on the leaking valve.  We can order a new one like we currently have or we can order a different valve but would possibly not be the same size and would cost more to replace.  Either valve would probably have a 4-6 week delivery.

 

Motion ;by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to order new valve like existing valve from Mid America Valve

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that 404 Washington has started construction.  102 Franklin received letter on 10/31 and have started piling up dead tree/brush.  201 Fulton letter was sent to attorney handling the foreclosure.  The attorney was to notify the lender and/or owner to address the issue.  After discussion, due to the time of year and other properties in town with ditches not mowed, City will not pursue this until spring.

 

Clerk Johnson reported on information received from KDHE on the Lead Service Line Inventory and a scheduled public hearing on the Lead and Copper Rule Revision Rule Implementation in Chanute on December 5, 7PM.

KMGA May 1, 2024 through April 20, 2025 Projected Gas Volumes were received.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0 to accept KMGA proposed Projected Gas Schedule for May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025

 

Johnson also reported on the KMU Regional Meeting and the KSGFOA Fall conference.

KMU is hosting a virtual 2024 Legislative & Regulatory Outlook on December 1, 10AM.  She has registered to attend.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – absent

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – conveyed his appreciation for the City and staff during his time on the council.  He will be unable to attend the December meeting, so said goodbye tonight.

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – has been receiving reports of dogs at large in the 300 block of Washington St.  He will ask Animal Control to followup.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Street project – work is completed.  Mayor Jurgensen and City Superintendent Rich met with contractor to discuss some areas of concern.  Work is warranted until October 27, 2024.  Contractor will come in to repair areas of concern next summer while working in the area.

 

Mural Grant – we have received the third and final payment from grant.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Council Pay Ordinance – tabled until special meeting on November 27, 2023.

 

Procurement Policy –

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to table discussion of current procurement policy to the December 12, 2023 meeting.

 

Moved by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 9:57PM

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda for the Bourbon County Commission on November 27

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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

November 27, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute Followed by Prayer
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 11/13/2023
  1. Public Comments
  2. Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  3. Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk-KAC Meeting
  • 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.

 

Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Capitol Tours
Clark Ensz of Wichita

Susan Ensz of Wichita

Richard Burkdoll of Osage City

Kathleen Burkdoll of Osage City

Kate Gasper of Prairie Village

James Gasper of Prairie Village

Adam Johnson of Lawrence

Tawyna Johnson of Lawrence

William Winkel of Glen Elder

Darnell Winkel of Glen Elder

Kayla Hamilton of Glen Elder

Ray Winkel of Glen Elder

Patrick Corpstein of Tipton

Rolenda Corpstein of Tipton

Keith Corpstein of Tipton

Rich Bonebrake of Topeka

Rebecca Crotty of Topeka

Mike Morrison of Topeka

Grace Morrison of Topeka

Jesse Janssen of Cawker City

Paul Elliott of Dodge City

Michael Calvert of Pratt

Jami Calvert of Wichita

Austin Calvert of Wichita

Ron Greif of Tipton

American Bakers Association
Tim Cook of Lenexa

Emily Hickman of Leawood

Nate Fiala of Kansas City

Hendrick Automotive Group/Toyota
Nick Karras of Shawnee

National Association of Music Merchants
Nancy McGuire of Kansas City

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas
Sunee Mickle of Topeka

Matt All of Lawrence

Evonik
Robert Brown of Wichita

Society for Human Resource Management
Kyle Russel of Mission

Stacey Moeder of Hutchinson

Makala Navano of Wichita

Amber Neises of Wichita

Community Care Network of Kansas
Sonja Bachus of Topeka


 

 

 


Dispatches from Israel
Leading a Trip to Tel Aviv
I led a bipartisan and bicameral delegation to Israel one month after Hamas’ horrific attacks against the Israeli people. The delegation met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to better understand how the United States can support our ally, Israel. During the meeting, we saw firsthand footage of the atrocities committed by Hamas terrorists during the October 7 attack. We also met with other key Israeli senior leaders, including the Israeli Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant.

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One of the most compelling meetings in Israel was with Steven Gillen, the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, and several of the families of the 240 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Anyone who uses children, the elderly and ordinary citizens as hostages is an enemy of the United States, and we should support Israel in their efforts to bring these Israelis home and deliver them from the hands of Hamas.
While is Israel, I had the opportunity to present Prime Minister Netanyahu with a copy of the unanimously-passed, Senate resolution reaffirming the United States’ support of Israel and its right to self-defense. It is in the United States’ best interest to stand with our oldest ally in the Middle East, and this means confronting the growing threat of Iran. Iran-backed proxies throughout the region are threatening Israelis and U.S. servicemembers deployed to the Middle East. Iran, the most significant terrorist-supporting organization in the world, enabled the horrendous terrorist attack against Israel by emboldening the will of the terrorists and supporting them with supplies and training. The U.S. must work to deter escalation beyond the Israeli borders and provide the means necessary for Israel to destroy Hamas.

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Joining Fox News
After returning to Washington, D.C. on Monday evening, I joined Representative Madeline Dean (D-Pa.) on Fox News’ Special Report with Bret Baier to discuss our meetings in Israel and to highlight the severity of the situation in the Middle East.

As Israel pursues bringing the terrorists responsible for October 7 to justice, it is important that Israeli operations in Gaza avoid to the extent possible any unnecessary loss of innocent life. Reports of a rapidly disintegrating humanitarian situation—ranging from a lack of food and shelter to unusable drinking water and the spread of disease—must be addressed. Doing so meets America’s highest ideals, maintains the Israel’s legitimacy in the eyes of the world, and can protect American security by helping minimize the potential for radicalization.

You can watch my full interview with Fox News here.

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I also spoke with Kansas reporters after my trip including Michael Schwanke at KWCH and Jon Holt at Fox 4 Kansas City. You can watch my KWCH interview here.

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Watch my full interview with Fox 4 Kansas City here.

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Demanding Action to Enforce Sanctions
After my return from Tel Aviv, I led my colleagues in calling on the Biden administration to enforce congressionally-mandated sanctions on Iranian oil sales. Hamas’ unprecedented attack on Israel further highlighted the reach of Iran’s influence and support for terror groups across the Middle East. Unfortunately, the Biden administration has failed to properly enforce sanctions on Iran, resulting in tens of billions of dollars for Tehran and it’s proxies. My letter, signed by 18 of my colleagues in the Senate, urges the administration to fulfill its promise of providing unwavering support to Israel by strictly enforcing sanctions on Iran’s oil exports.

In addition, I called on President Biden to rescind the sanctions waivers and licenses associated with the $6 billion held in Qatar. After the October 7th massacre and repeated attacks on both Israel and U.S. bases across the Middle East, the weakening of financial penalties on Iran is wholly unacceptable.

You can read the full letter here. Watch my interview with KSN-TV interview here.

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On Tuesday, I joined KSHB to highlight the need for sanctions against Iran to keep U.S. military personnel and our allies in the Middle East safe. You can watch my KSHB interview here.

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Kansas Radio Interviews
On Wednesday morning, I joined Kansas news outlets to discuss my trip to Israel with other members of Congress. Thank you Pete Mundo with KCMO and Nick Gosnell with KWBW for taking the time to talk with me.

You can listen to my interview with KCMO here. You can listen to my interview with KWBW here.

Investigating the VA Crisis Line
On November 6, I requested the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a thorough investigation into the VA’s Veteran Crisis Line (VCL). I made the request after an alarming report from the VA’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and disclosures from multiple whistleblowers who came to my staff on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and provided solid evidence of gross mismanagement at the VCL that is creating a danger to the health and safety of veterans nationwide. VCL responders are currently transferring veterans who they determine to present “complex needs” to an indefinite waiting list for an eventual contact from a special unit that is reportedly understaffed and undertrained. Worse yet, a break in record retention is reportedly resulting in a complete loss of communication with veterans who are disconnected while waiting on hold in this queue.

After receiving confirmation from GAO on Tuesday, I sent a letter to VA Sec. Denis McDonough demanding his immediate attention to this issue. This issue is creating a life-threatening danger to veterans who are already in crisis and reaching out for help. Breakdowns in this lifesaving resource for veterans must be corrected immediately and appropriate actions must be taken without waiting for the full conclusion of this investigation.

My full letter to the GAO can be found here.

My full letter to Sec. McDonough can be found here.

Read more about the investigation in Military Times here or in the Kansas Reflector here.

Expanding American Entrepreneurship
On On Wednesday, I was joined by Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.), in introducing the Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act. This bill would simply raise the threshold to allow more people in invest in angel funds. By allowing more people to invest while growing the size of the fund, capital can be raised with a significantly lower buy-in. This would allow Main Street to play a bigger role in investing in America’s start-up businesses. Entrepreneurship is a hallmark of the American economy, and this legislation aims to make investing more accessible and impactful for both individuals and emerging companies.

You can read about the bill in WIBW here.

Meeting with Paralyzed Veterans of America President
On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to meet with the National President and Chairman of the Board of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), Robert Thomas. President Thomas is an Army veteran from Ohio who was injured during a diving accident while he was on active duty in 1991. He sought help from VA for his injuries and he found community in his fellow veterans at PVA. He was elected President in May 2023 and also serves on PVA’s Education Foundation and on VA’s Family Caregiver and Survivors Advisory Committee.

During my conversation with President Thomas and his leadership team, I congratulated him on his achievements and discussed PVA’s priorities for the coming year, which include ensuring VA medical facilities are accessible and supporting military and veteran caregivers. I am grateful for PVA’s efforts and advocacy and for PVA’s support for my bill, the Elizabeth Dole Home Care Act. With PVA’s support, I look forward to getting the Dole Act signed into law as soon as possible and to continuing our work on behalf of veterans everywhere.

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Aeronautics Innovation Starts in Kansas
On Wednesday evening, I spoke at NASA’s “Aeronautics Day on the Hill” event, where attendees could experience how NASA Aeronautics innovation benefits the public and our nation’s position as a leader in aerospace technologies. The first “A” in NASA stands for Aeronautics and the efforts to safely and sustainably transform aviation for the 21st century guide the agency to focus on four major areas: High-Speed Commercial Flight, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), Ultra-Efficient Airliners, and Future Airspace and Safety. Our nation can only continue to advance our aviation ecosystem when the regulatory agencies that oversee it – such as NASA and FAA – are collaborating, and that begins with its leadership. The leadership void at the FAA has been filled by Administrator Whitaker, and I hope that additional cross-agency collaboration can occur so we can drive progress and redefine the aerospace industry.

As the lead Republican on the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds NASA, I have worked to steadily increase the aeronautics portfolio and safeguard the first “A” in NASA. I want to thank Administrator Nelson for hosting this event and providing the opportunity to celebrate our aeronautics achievements and embrace discovery.

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Holding the VA Accountable
On Wednesday, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing on the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA’s) emergency preparedness and response efforts. When disaster strikes, the VA has a critical role to play not only in caring for veterans, but also in supporting response efforts of local, state and federal authorities when called upon. During the pandemic, VA staff stepped up across the country to provide supplies, staff, inpatient beds, and other support to State Veteran Homes, community nursing homes, and non-VA hospitals and clinics. I remain grateful for VA’s efforts during that harrowing time and for the daily efforts of VA staff to keep veterans and others safe from natural disasters and emergencies, extreme weather events, and other crisis situations. However, there are plenty of areas the VA must improve in order to ensure that the department is equipped to respond well in the face of emergency scenarios. The VA has outdated medical facilities and a lack of effective emergency communications systems throughout those facilities, which are two priorities that I am working on as the lead Republican on the Senate VA Committee.

During the hearing, I also asked VA about allegations that my office recently heard from a whistleblower from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection who alleges that VA is paying for health care services provided in non-VA medical facilities to non-citizens who are in detention at the northern and southern border. VA’s mission of caring for veterans is sacred, and I will fight to make sure that every taxpayer dollar that VA receives is devoted to that mission. The brave men and women who have served in our Armed Forces deserve nothing less.

You can watch my questioning here.

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Keeping Consumer Costs Low
On Monday, I published an op-ed in the American Banker drawing attention to the importance of hedging tools for numerous producers across Kansas and the nation. The proposals inadvertently harm both producers and consumers by raising the cost to responsibly hedge against risk. Farmers’ co-ops, oil producers, and grain processors frequently rely on futures and options contracts to hedge against price swings and market volatility. As regulators continue pushing for higher capital requirements for banks, it is crucial for them to realize that these regulations meant for Wall Street have tangible effects in the Heartland. From a Kansas soybean farmer to some of the world’s largest airlines, end users of derivatives will all be impacted by these proposed capital requirements. Ultimately, the use of these critical risk management tools should be made more accessible, not more expensive.

You can read my op-ed in the American Banker here.

Meeting with Kansans
Kansas Farm Credit
This week, members of Kansas Farm Credit travelled to Washington D.C. to visit about issues important to them and their customers. Farm Credit helps provide access to credit to agricultural producers and their rural communities. We discussed the challenges early-career farmers and ranchers face and the important role Farm Credit plays in helping these producers start new and grow existing operations.

We also spoke about the upcoming Farm Bill, crop insurance, risk management and conservation programs. As these important discussions progress, I look forward to continuing to work with Kansas Farm Credit in their efforts to provide resources to Kansas farmers and ranchers.

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VA Leaders in Kansas
This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Patricia Hall, the Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 15, which encompasses the majority of Kansas as well as parts of Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Arkansas. Dr. Hall was accompanied by the Director of the VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System in Topeka and Leavenworth Rudy Klopfer, Director of the Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita Michael Payne Jr., and Director of the Kansas City VA Medical Center in Kansas City, MO Paula Roychaudhuri. I expressed my appreciation to each of these leaders for their efforts to provide timely, quality health care to Kansas veterans. We talked about efforts to expand access to VA care in rural communities through new community-based outpatient clinics in Iola, Junction City, and Paola. We also discussed the status of VA’s partnership with community facilities across Kansas and how those partnerships can be strengthened. I encouraged them to use every tool available to them through the MISSION Act to connect veterans in need of health care services who have unique needs with available community care providers.

Providing world-class benefits and services to servicemembers, veterans and military families will always be one of my top priorities, and I am grateful for the work that VA leaders, health care workers, support staff, and all others do every day for our nation’s heroes. Thank you to Dr. Hall, Mr. Klopfer, Mr. Payne, and Ms. Roychaudhuri for your service to our veterans and for making the time to meet with me.

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The Honorable Rebecca Crotty
On Wednesday, former District Judge Rebecca Crotty visited my office in Washington, D.C.. Judge Crotty was appointed in 2010 to Division 1 of the 3rd Judicial District in Shawnee County, served as chief judge of the Kansas Court of Tax Appeals, and was a district magistrate judge in Finney County. She also was vice president and counsel for a bank in Garden City and a research attorney for the Kansas Supreme Court. Thank you to Rebecca Crotty, Rich Bonebrake, Mike Morrison, and Grace Morrison for the conversation.

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Visits Across Kansas
McPherson Police Officer Appreciation Banquet
On Friday evening, I was honored to help recognize the extraordinary efforts of our men and women in blue at the McPherson Annual Police Officer Appreciation Banquet. As the lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations subcommittee with jurisdiction over the Department of Justice, I am committed to making certain our law enforcement heroes—in McPherson, across Kansas and throughout the nation—have the resources and support they need to do their jobs effectively and safely. I join all Kansans in thanking our law enforcement for their daily sacrifice and tireless work to protect McPherson and every other community in our state. Thank you to McPherson Police Chief Mikel Golden for his leadership of the department and to police chaplain Dean Kroeker for arranging my participation. Thank you also to Mayor Tom Brown for his words of thanks and longtime stewardship of the community.

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Christina Peña
At the McPherson Police Academy Banquet, I was able to meet Christina Peña – my nominee to the U.S. Naval Academy. Christina is an incredible young woman who attends McPherson High School and I look forward to seeing how she continues to make an impact on Kansas and the world.

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Sunflower Showdown Game
On Saturday, I was in Lawrence for the 121st “Sunflower Showdown.” In a back and forth game, the Wildcats came away with a 31-27 win over the Jayhawks. Congratulations to the Wildcats on their win, and to both teams on their historic seasons. I wish them all the best as both teams get ready for bowl season.

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

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

Very truly yours,

Jerry

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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401		 Manhattan
1800 Kimball Avenue,
Suite 270
Manhattan, KS 66052
Phone: (785) 539-8973
Fax: (785) 587-0789		 Olathe
23600 College Blvd.,
Suite 201
P.O. Box 1154
Olathe, KS 66061
Phone: (913) 393-0711
Fax: (913) 768-1366
Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building
Room 521
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-6521
Fax: (202) 228-6966		 Wichita
100 North Broadway,
Suite 210
Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: (316) 269-9257
Fax: (316) 269-9259

Garden City
1511 East Fulton Terrace, Suite 1511-2
Garden City, KS 67846
Phone: (620) 260-3025

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

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