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Category Archives: Government
FSCC Trustees Agenda for December 16
To view the entire packet:
December 16, 2024
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
December 16, 2024. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott
Community College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of culture and
diversity that provides affordable academic, technical and occupational programs to meet student needs while
fostering a mutually supportive relationship between the college and its communities.
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
C. Housing Update, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on November 18, 2024, 6
C. Approval of Bills and Claims, 8
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
E. Approval of Gordon Parks Board Member Actions, 5
DISCUSSION ITEMS, 30
A. Board Retreat Dates, 30
B. Meeting Streaming, 30
ACTION ITEMS, 31
A. Resolution 2024 – 74: Consideration of Peaceful Assembly Policy, 31
B. Resolution 2024 – 75: Consideration of Progressive Discipline Policy, 34
C. Resolution 2024 – 76: Consideration of Faculty Qualifications Policy, 38
D. Resolution 2024 – 77: Consideration of Conflict of Interest Policy, 45
E. Resolution 2024 – 78: Consideration of Credit Hour Policy, 50
F. Resolution 2024 – 79: Consideration of Purchasing Policy, 52
G. Resolution 2024 – 80: Consideration of Employee Handbook Updates, Part 2, 58
H. Resolution 2024 – 81: Consideration of Construction Technology Program Revisions, 110
I. Resolution 2024 – 82: Consideration of Security Awareness Training Solution Purchase, 115
J. Resolution 2024 – 83: Approval of Hot Water Tank Replacement Expenses, 138
K. Resolution 2024 – 84: Consideration of Digital Marketing Service Contract, 140
REPORTS, 1621
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
December 16, 2024. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott
Community College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of culture and
diversity that provides affordable academic, technical and occupational programs to meet student needs while
fostering a mutually supportive relationship between the college and its communities.
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
C. Housing Update, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on November 18, 2024, 6
C. Approval of Bills and Claims, 8
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
E. Approval of Gordon Parks Board Member Actions, 5
DISCUSSION ITEMS, 30
A. Board Retreat Dates, 30
B. Meeting Streaming, 30
ACTION ITEMS, 31
A. Resolution 2024 – 74: Consideration of Peaceful Assembly Policy, 31
B. Resolution 2024 – 75: Consideration of Progressive Discipline Policy, 34
C. Resolution 2024 – 76: Consideration of Faculty Qualifications Policy, 38
D. Resolution 2024 – 77: Consideration of Conflict of Interest Policy, 45
E. Resolution 2024 – 78: Consideration of Credit Hour Policy, 50
F. Resolution 2024 – 79: Consideration of Purchasing Policy, 52
G. Resolution 2024 – 80: Consideration of Employee Handbook Updates, Part 2, 58
H. Resolution 2024 – 81: Consideration of Construction Technology Program Revisions, 110
I. Resolution 2024 – 82: Consideration of Security Awareness Training Solution Purchase, 115
J. Resolution 2024 – 83: Approval of Hot Water Tank Replacement Expenses, 138
K. Resolution 2024 – 84: Consideration of Digital Marketing Service Contract, 140
REPORTS, 1621
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 172
ADJOURNMENT, 173
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
• December 16, 2024 Board Meeting
• December 20, 2024 – January 3, 2025 Campus Closed – Winter Break
• January 20, 2025 Campus Closed – Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• January 21, 2025 Spring Semester Begins
• January 27, 2025 (Changed from January 20 due Board Meeting
to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)
• February 17, 2025 Board Meeting
• March 24, 2025 (Changed from March 17 due Board Meeting
to spring break)
• March 17 – 21, 2025 Campus Closed – Spring Break
• March 28, 2025 Aggie Day
• April 18, 2025 Campus Closed – Good Friday
• April 21, 2025 Board Meeting
• May 19, 2025 Board Meeting
• May 26, 2025 Campus Closed -Memorial Day
• June 16, 2025 Board Meeting
Sincerely,
Bryan Holt, Chair
Sara Sutton, Interim President
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a
central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and
departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective
processes; and developing the region’s workforce.2
ROLL CALL
_____ Ronda Bailey
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Chad McKinnis
_____ Doug Ropp3
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
C. HOUSING UPDATE4
CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
Attached are the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting conducted on November 18,
2024
C. APPROVAL OF BILLS and CLAIMS
Attached are the Treasurer’s and Bills and Claims Report.
D. APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTIONS
Additions
1) Sandy Tucker, CAMP Tutor/Mentor, effective January 6, 2025
2) Heidi Martinez, Allied Health Instructor, effective January 6, 2025
3) Lillie Grubb, Accounting Clerk – Part Time, effective January 6, 2025
4) Carolyn Smith, Foundation Assistant, effective Janauay 6, 2025
Separations with IDEA Transition, effective December 31, 2024
Matthew Campbell
Marivel Chavez
Paulin Conde
Mayte Fuentes
Sierra Higginbotham
Adriana Holguin
Janet Reynolds
Faustino Rosales
Magdalena Rosales
Melanie Stuart-Campbell
Yasmine Lennon
Allie Birket
Steve Britt
John Fink
Mikel Fire
CJ Heaton
Pam Hightower
Jennifer Quick
Leticia Suastegui
Tracie Kalic
Jessica Castaneda
Melissa Schelah
E. APPROVAL OF GORDON PARKS BOARD MEMBER PERSONNEL ACTIONS
Additions
1) Angel Wilson, effective January 1, 2025
Separations
1) Debra Wood, effective January 1, 2025
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Consent Agenda items be approved as presented.
BOARD ACTION: MOTION _____ SECOND _____ VOTE _____
DISCUSSION:
VOTE: Bailey Bartelsmeyer Fewins
Holt McKinnis Ropp5
Separations
1)Philip Redrick, Head Track and Field Coach, effective December 31, 2024
Minutes of the FSCC Trustees Meeting on November 18
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting
November 18, 2024
PRESENT: Ronda Bailey, John Bartelsmeyer, Jim Fewins, Bryan Holt, Chad McKinnis, and Doug Ropp
ALSO PRESENT: Sara Sutton – Interim President, Juley McDaniel – Board Clerk, faculty, staff, community members
Chairman Holt called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm in the meeting rooms of the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Agriculture Building.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and Holt reading FSCC’s mission statement.
COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR: None
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None
TRIO PROGRAM UPDATE: TRIO Director Holli Mason provided a summary of the TRIO program to the
Board. TRIO is a federally funded grant focused on increasing college graduation and retention rates and/or transfer
rates from a 2 year to 4 year program. The program serves 150 students per year that meet at least one of the
identified criteria (low-income, first generation, or documented disability). The program has to provide tutoring,
advising, assistance with completing FAFSA, financial literacy, and information regarding federal student aid. Most
of the program’s time is spent in individualized counseling for personal, career, and academic information.
Approximately 15 FSCC employees outside of the TRIO employees serve as TRIO mentors. FSCC receives 8% of
TRIO’s budgeted funds in administrative allowance. The program operates on a five year grant cycle, and FSCC
has already reapplied for 2025-2030 with help from Bonnie Houk from Greenbush.
CONSENT AGENDA:
A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the consent agenda,
noting that the executive session will be moved to occur between Discussion Items and Action Items.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
A. PEACEFUL ASSEMBLY POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed policy regarding peaceful
assembly. The policy will be presented for approval at the next board meeting.
B. PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed policy regarding progressive
discipline. The policy will be presented for approval at the next board meeting. Holt clarified an
assumption of human resources’ involvement throughout the process, as well as the need to training of
supervisors on the process.
C. FACULTY QUALIFICATIONS POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed policy regarding faculty
qualifications. The policy will be presented for approval at the next board meeting.
D. CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed policy regarding employee
conflicts of interest. The policy will be presented for approval at the next board meeting. In the Annual
Disclosure section the policy references the Board of Regents instead of Board of Trustees, so will need
revised.
E. CREDIT HOUR POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed credit hour policy. The policy will be
presented for approval at the next board meeting.
F. PURCHASING POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed purchasing policy. The policy will be
presented for approval at the next board meeting.6
G. EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK UPDATES, PART 2: The board reviewed proposed revisions to the
employee handbook. This section will be presented for approval at the next board meeting. Suggested
revisions should be provided before the next board meeting.
H. MEETING STREAMING: FSCC stopped streaming some months ago in an effort to support a
minimally staffed IT Department. The Board discussed the pros and cons of streaming meetings, including
what other public entities and community colleges stream meetings. The Board would like feedback from
other entities that do or don’t stream.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous
vote to adjourn to executive session for fifteen minutes beginning at 6:25 pm for the purpose of discussing non-
elected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with action not
expected to follow. The Board invited Sonia Gugnani and Sara Sutton to join.
OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote to return to
open session at 6:41 pm.
ACTION ITEMS:
A. Resolution 2024 – 68: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous
vote to approve the Family and Medical Leave Policy.
B. Resolution 2024 – 69: A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by
unanimous vote to approve the International Student Deposit Policy.
C. Resolution 2024 – 70: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous
vote to approve Employee Handbook Updates, Part 1.
D. Resolution 2024 – 71: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by
unanimous vote to approve the revised Substance Abuse Policy.
E. Resolution 2024 – 72: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous
vote to approve the revised Program Review Policy.
F. Resolution 2024 – 73: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by
unanimous vote to approve the 3 BCBS health plans as presented, the BCBS dental plan as presented, and
the EyeMed vision plan as presented.
G. Resolution 2024 – 74: A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by McKinnis, and carried by unanimous
vote to reject the sublease agreement from Southeastern Technical Academy for Rural Students (STARS)
in the interest of having further conversation with STARS.
H. Resolution 2024 – 75: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous
vote to approve the commercial real estate sales contract for the property at 810 Burke Street.
REPORTS:
• ADMINISTRATION – The Board reviewed and heard updates from Academic Affairs, Student Services,
Foundation, Finance and Operations, and the Interim President.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at
7:50 pm by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous vote.
Letters of Interest Sought For Redistricting Process To Expand Bourbon County Commission
At the December 12 Bourbon County Commission meeting Commissioner Clifton Beth asked resident Michael Hoyt to assemble a citizens group to oversee the redistricting process that was approved in the November 2024 election.
Letters of Interest to participate in the redistricting process of Bourbon County expanding the County Commission from 3 to 5 persons are needed for the process.
“In my opinion, I feel that each current commissioner district should be represented to oversee this process,” Hoyt said in an email to fortscott.biz. “… I am seeking letters of interest from anyone who would like to participate; any Bourbon County elector and must be able to meet from 9 am to 5 pm since we will need the ability to communicate with state officials and county employees elected and non-elected. Letters can be sent to my address: P.O. Box 1009, Fort Scott, KS 66701. “
“You must be available for the meeting from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. since I expect the committee will be working with state and county officials both elected and non-elected,” Hoyt said.
“Time is short to meet the required deadline, so your interest must be received by December 20, 2024, and I would anticipate working through the holiday period”
Representation from all 3 current districts is the expectation, he said.
“All letters will receive a confirmation of receipt and be presented for selection by the Commission..or send it to me in an email at [email protected]. The first meeting will be held immediately following the Commission meeting on December 19, 2024.”
Agenda For the Dec. 17 Meeting of the FS City Commission
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
December 17, 2024 – 6:00 P.M.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
Tim VanHoecke, Matthew Wells, Dyllon Olson, Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer
III. Pledge of Allegiance
- Invocation
- Approval of Agenda
- Consent Agenda
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1374-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of November 27, 2024, to December 10, 2024, – $457,779.84
- Approval of Minutes for December 3, 2024, Regular Meeting and December 6, 2024, Special Meeting.
- Approval of Renewed Cereal Malt Beverage(CMB) License for 2025
Original Unopened Container – Not for Consumption on the Premises
Walmart #0039 – 2500 S. Main
Walgreens #11086 – 2229 S. Main
Pete’s #28 – 1135 E. Wall
Pete’s #27 – 605 National
Pete’s #20 – 998 N. National
Pete’s #14 – 1920 S. Main
Casey’s #3399 – 2216 S. Main
G & W Foods/Cash Saver – 911 E. 6th
Consumption on the Premises
Fifthwheel Tavern – 206 N. Humbolt
Woodland Hills Golf Course – 2414 S. Horton
- November Financials
VII. Public Comment
VIII. Appearances
- Becky Johnon/SEKMCHD – Overview of Services provided by SEK Multi-County Public Health Department.
- Unfinished Business
- Status of 118 E. Wall – Tabled from November 19, 2024.
- Status of Horton 6th Street Project – Representative/Emery Sapp & Sons
- New Business
Public Hearing:
- Amendment of the 2024 Budget pertaining to Stormwater Fund No. 719 and Golf Fund No. 219 – BakerTilly
Action Items:
- Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – (Jerry Witt) – Recommended by Design Review Board on December 10, 2024.
- Consideration to Approve Updated Woodland Hills Golf Course Rates – M. Wyatt
- Consideration to Approval Ordinance No. – Wages Ordinance No. 3779
- Consideration of Change Order No. 3 – 6 U 2455-01 Horton St. & 6th Improvements – Heck & Wicker, Inc. – EEI Project No. 22-049 – Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc. – (3) options provided – J. Dickman
- Consideration to Approve Addendum No. 3 – Wastewater Evaluation and Design Contract – EEI File No. 21-303 –New Generator to Davis Lift Station – Dickman
- Reports and Comments
- City Manager Comments
- Engineering Comments
- Commissioners Comments
- City Attorney Comments
XII. Adjourn
Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission Meeting of Dec. 6
CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes of December 6, 2024 Special Meeting
A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held at 11:00AM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on The City of Fort Scott YouTube Channel but audio was not available due to technical difficulties.
The meeting was called to order at 11:06AM. Commissioners Tim VanHoecke (by phone), Dyllon Olson (by phone), and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer. Kathryn Salsbury was absent.
Brad Matkin/City Manager, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineer & Inspection, Inc. (by phone) and Lisa Lewis/City Clerk were present for the meeting.
- Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the agenda as presented. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All present voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.
Public Comment – No comments.
Unfinished Business
Consideration of Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 5-REV – Heck & Wicker, Inc. – Project No. 24-414 (Concrete and Dirt Work) $140,130.12
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the requested payment of $140,130.12 to Heck & Wicker for the concrete and dirt work that was completed and approved. D. Olson seconded the motion. All present voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.
Adjourn
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 11:13AM. M. Wells seconded the motion. All present voted yes.
MEETING ADJOURNED AT 11:13AM.
_______________________________________________________________________
Submitted by:
Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk
Unapproved FS City Commission Minutes of December 3
CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes of December 3, 2024 Regular Meeting
A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube – City of Fort Scott Channel.
The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Commissioners Tim VanHoecke, Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells, and Kathryn Salsbury were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer.
Audience in Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Caleb Bell/FSPD Lieutenant, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement Technician, Jessica Oliphant/BakerTilly (by telephone), Bill Lemke/Water Collections, Laura Dunfee, Steven Dunfee, Robert Coon
- Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda (Time stamp 1:45)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the Agenda as presented. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All those present voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Approval of Consent Agenda (Time stamp 3:00)
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1373-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of November 13, 2024, to November 26, 2024, – $1,118,230.10
- Approval of Minutes for November 19, 2024, Regular Meeting
MOTION: D. Olson moved to approve the Agenda as presented. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Public Comment
Robert Coon – (Time stamp 3:45) – addressed the Commission regarding the status of 118 E. Wall. He is encouraging a decision from the Commission at the next meeting following the inspection from the structural engineer on December 9, 2024. This situation has greatly impacted his business, and he requested a resolution because it has been (1) year since the situation began.
Unfinished Business
(Time stamp 11:01)
Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 31-2024 – RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 1105 S. STATE– Tabled from November 19, 2024.
- Kruger stated that the Codes Department has been in contact with the owner as the Commission requested. The owner does not have any interest in repairing the home and wants to sell the property. It is recommended that the unsafe and dangerous structure be removed, and the City seek bids for demolition.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 31-2024 directing the removal of the structure at 1105 S Scott. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 14:40)
-Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – 17 S. Main – Move Sign to New Location – Recommended by Design Review Board on November 12, 2024, and tabled by City Commission on November 19, 2024.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness to move the Stutesman Action Realty sign from 120 Wall Street to 17 S. Main. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
New Business
(Time stamp 16:40)
Consideration to Replace Charles Street Lift Station – B. Lemke addressed the Commission to request the replacement of the Charles Lift Station due to its current condition. Repairs have been attempted. Parts are not readily available due to the age of the equipment. He has selected an above ground lift station that uses a siphon-style priming system that uses check valves to keep it in place. It is manufactured by Gorman/Rupp and Haynes Equipment is the sole source provider. It was chosen because it has less electro-mechanical parts. He believes it will be cheaper to run, long-term and easier to maintain. The cost of the station is $83,500.00 and will need to be installed by a contractor. He would need to solicit bids for the removal and installation of the lift station. His ask is for approval to purchase the new station and seek bids for removal and installation.
Discussion was had regarding sole source and other station options.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the City going out for a “turn-key” lift station at Charles Street. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
ACTION: B. Lemke will work with Earles Engineering to create a comprehensive bid for all that is needed for the new lift station and return to the Commission.
Consideration of Verizon Tolling Agreement – B. Farmer explained that Verizon is actively looking for a new location for the cell tower because the location that was applied for was denied by the City Commission. He stated that Verizon has said that they have the right to appeal the decision in federal court. The agreement for consideration is a “stop the clock” agreement. The City will do nothing other than what is already done, and Verizon will not appeal while they explore the options to move the tower. He understands that the Verizon legal department and the business side have authorized this agreement as well. During this time, Verizon will decide if they will submit another application for a different location and the 150-day deadline no longer applies with the approval of this agreement.
MOTION: D. Olson moved to approve the Tolling Agreement. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 34:17)
Consideration to set a Budget Hearing on December 17, 2024, for amending the 2024 Budget pertaining to Stormwater Fund No. 719 and Golf Fund No. 219. – J. Oliphant explained that this is part of the annual compliance of submitting the budget to the state. BakerTilly reviews the projections to see if any of the funds will expend beyond the budget authority that was submitted last year for 2024. Stormwater and golf are the only (2) funds that appear to be expending more than what was budgeted. A budget hearing is required to approve an amendment to the budget to bring these (2) funds into compliance. Neither is over budget by a lot. The stormwater fund should have enough revenue in its charges for service to cover the overages and expenditures. The Golf Fund will require a small supplement from the General Fund. This is the first year that the Golf Fund has been independent, so in prior years it would have rolled up with the General Fund to receive its supplement. This is a more transparent way of providing these services.
- Farmer left the meeting (Time stamp 35:10).
- Farmer returned to the meeting (Time stamp 36:58).
MOTION: M. Wells moved to set a budget hearing for December 17, 2024. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
ACTION: J. Oliphant will provide a of expenditures of the Stormwater Fund and the Golf Fund to outline the overages prior to the budget hearing.
(Time stamp 37:32)
Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 34-2024 A RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH URBAN AREA BOUNDARY LINES and RESOLUTION NO. 35-2024 A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE URBAN FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM – B. Matkin stated that this is a process that is done every few years in conjunction with the County. It defines the boundaries and the classifications of the roads. There were no changes to the Fort Scott boundaries but there were a few changes to the classification of a few roads due to a traffic study.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve Resolution No. 34-2024 and Resolution No. 35-2024. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 40:41)
Request to Pay Heck & Wicker – Project No. 6 U-2455-01 – EEI Project No. 24-414 – Payment No. 5 – $450,052.32 – J. Dickman presented a request for the Commission to pay for materials (asphalt and fabric), Earle’s Engineering would issue a letter to Heck & Wicker stating that the final product is defective and have requirements for them to profile the roadway and based on KDOT specs and wherever it does not meet the tolerances, they would have to diamond grind at the expense of the contractor, not the City.
Discussion was had regarding the City’s dissatisfaction with the surface of Horton Street and specifically the fact that the specs of the contract were not followed and the surface was poured in (1) 3” lift instead of the specified (2) 1 ½” lifts, along with issues with the fabric, milling and a lack of a Change Order.
Emery Sapp & Sons sent a statement to B. Matkin regarding possible resolutions. He addressed the Commission and answered questions. (Most of his comments were inaudible for accurate transcription).
- Farmer stated “The specs are a contract. A written contract cannot be modified by an oral assertion. It cannot be done. Period. End of story. I’m not responsible is not a defense.”
Further discussion was had regarding where the communication went wrong and the need for a resolution.
ACTION: J. Dickman will check the project report to see if there is any documentation regarding the decision to change from the specs.
ACTION: J. Dickman will try to find which bidder asked for clarification on the bid regarding the 3” lift which required an addendum (Addendum 2) to the bid.
- Dickman again requested that the Commission pay the pay request. He stated if the Commission wants to go down the road of “defective based on smoothness” then he needs to provide them a letter rejecting the final product, still per spec is paid for, but now they have to fix it.
Discussion was had about the pieces of the contract. Article 14 of the contract pertains to the letter J. Dickman would draft to tell Heck & Wicker that the City does not accept the smoothness of this road…the fix is on you and here’s my recommendations.
Further discussion was had about diamond grinding as a resolution.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to table the approval of the Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 5 until information is provided from Heck & Wicker, Jason has an opportunity to go through the emails, Jesse can go through his emails to provide the Commission any kind of documentation to back up any of the back and forth and put this on the agenda for the next meeting . D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Reports and Comments: (Time stamp 1:15:13)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:24PM. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:24PM.
_______________________________________________________________________
Submitted by:
Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk
Minutes from the Dec. 5 Bourbon County Commission Meeting
December 5, 2024 Thursday 9:00 a.m.
The Board of Bourbon County Commissioners met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present.
Anne Dare, Teri Hulsey, Jean Tucker, Shanda Stewart, Mark McCoy, Jason Silvers, Mike Wunderly, Tim Emerson, and Debra Shepard were present for some or all of the meeting.
Jim opened the meeting with the flag salute.
Clifton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes approval of minutes from 11/21/2024, approval of accounts payable totaling $350,068.23, approval of payroll totaling $315,166.08, and approval of October financials. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.
Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, stated the caterer was available for a holiday dinner on December 17th and asked that we close the courthouse as we have done in the past to allow all employees to attend. Clifton made a motion to close the courthouse on December 17th from 11:00-1:00 for employees to attend a holiday dinner and that more than one Commissioner may be present, however; no county business will be conducted. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.
Teri Hulsey, EMS Director, stated they received grants from The Patterson Foundation, The Wal-Mart Foundation, and The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation, as well as local donations from Labconco, Neice, Peerless Products, and Mid-Continental and are now able to purchase the PowerLoad cot system for the EMS 1 truck. Jim thanked Teri for all her hard work. Clifton said he received a call from a citizen who is concerned about where they can dispose of their sharps since Walgreens is closing. Clifton asked Teri what we do with ours and if we can accept them from citizens. Teri asked Clifton to let her confirm that they are able to do that she said they had partnered with the police department in the past and had a big box that they were dropped in.
Mark McCoy, with Bourbon County REDI, said he has been here three times requesting funding and he is respectfully requesting funding in the amount of $75,000 for services rendered. Mr. McCoy said this is well under the $130,000 that was originally set aside. Jim said he is not sure that we did set aside funds for REDI in 2024 and that he would have to ask the CFO. Jim asked if anybody from REDI is knocking on business doors trying to help businesses and sell properties? Mark said no they are not physically knocking on doors but Rob has showed 2 buildings and that the Valu-Merchandiser’s building is hard to sell as the seller is staying firm. Jim said his next meeting will be on the 19th and asked Mark or Rob to do a presentation of what they have accomplished the last several years. Mark said that they will be here to do that.
Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, said KCAMP has a Risk Avoidance Grant in the amount of $2000 that they county can apply for. The Sheriff’s Department was able to use $800 earlier this year to purchase fire extinguishers for their vehicles and Jennifer asked permission to work with the courthouse, public works, and EMS to determine who has purchased items that would qualify and to apply for the remaining amount of the Risk Avoidance Grant. The Commissioners agreed to let Jennifer work with other departments and apply for the remaining funds.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to pass out the Emergency Department funding agreement. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton handed out the agreement and said it was basically the same with a few changes including the name has been changed to Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc., the date has been changed from October 1 to December 5th, and that payment will be due within 10 days of signing the agreement. Clifton said the City of Fort Scott will still contribute $600,000 and Bourbon County will contribute $500,000. Clifton said there is a clawback stating in the event that the emergency department is not open or operational by 6-1-2025 Freeman will have to pay back the money in monthly payments. Clifton said the agreements states that Bourbon County will let Freeman use the equipment commencing 6-1-2025. Jim asked if part B item 3 should state 6-1-2025 instead of 4-1-2025 and Clifton said yes, and to change it on the agreement he has. The Commission accepted questions from the audience while Brandon read the agreement. Anne Dare asked Clifton to reread the section of the agreement and questioned why the date was changed from 4-1-2025 to 6-1-2025. Clifton said there was no reason given. Pete Owenby asked how much money is wrapped up in the hospital building now. Clifton said 2.5 million dollars plus the building and the land. Jim said you have to look at the building as we only had “x” amount of dollars to keep up the building and that the $2,000,000 came from federal funds and the funds given by Mercy. Clifton said the money was spent on the building and you can look through their expenditures. Jim said some people who originally wanted to tear the building down are happy that we did not because of all the work KRI has done. Clifton said Legacy is the reason KRI is here. Pete asked if we could have put the building up for bid. Clifton said we tried to give the building away to Freeman, KU Med, Saint Lukes, and even Mercy and they didn’t want it. Jim said he was contacted by KRI and he asked Justin Meeks to call Legacy. Clifton said that wasn’t true that he is the one that contacted Legacy and he was shown emails between Legacy and KRI. Shanda Stewart said that people are concerned with the time it has taken to try to close on the deal. Clifton made a motion to accept the emergency department funding agreement and to allow Chairman Harris to sign it. Brandon said it is a good contract that covers Bourbon County. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.
Jim asked to amend the agenda to discuss the moratorium because the vote wasn’t recorded. Clifton seconded and all approved. Jim said he thought we voted on it but there was a lot of noise in the room and it was not recorded. Jim stated the County Counselor said we can rescind and back date to 10-31-2024. Jim made a motion to sign a resolution rescinding the moratorium on solar projects in Bourbon County and termination of prior agreements with Hinton Creek as so voted on 10-31-2024 and the counselor says we can redate this resolution to 10-31-2024. Clifton seconded the motion. Brandon opposed. The vote passed 2-1.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:27. Brandon seconded the motion and all approved.
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
___________________, Chairman
___________________,Commissioner
ATTEST: ___________________,Commissioner
Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Clerk
12-12-2024 Approved Date
USD 235 Passes Resolution to Hold School Bond Election
PRESS RELEASE from Vance Eden, superintendent of USD235, Uniontown School District.
The USD 235 Board of Education approved a resolution Monday night to place a $1,250,000 bond election before voters during a special election held Tuesday, March 4. The board of education went back to the drawing board after voters rejected two propositions in the November 2023 election. This time around, the board of education reduced the scope of work and bond amount by 86 percent.
Following the election, the district surveyed its constituents to better understand its perspectives and priorities. In that feedback we heard that the cost of the previous bond question was too high, and many patrons felt the scope of work included items that were not truly a need. With that in mind, we have reduced the work to only include the three most pressing needs. In doing so, the district is able to present a bond issue to the public that would have a no mill increase to taxpayers.
The scope of work will include 3 projects. The largest expense will be for the replacement of the two modulars at West Bourbon Elementary School with one permanent structure that will house the preschool and small offices for school psychology and speech therapy services. The bond will also include the replacement of the antiquated fire alarm system at the high school and will renovate the main entrance at WBE to be ADA accessible, as well as more secure.
The following bond proposal below will appear on the ballot.
Shall the following be adopted?
Shall Unified School District No. 235, Bourbon County, Kansas (Uniontown), issue general obligation bonds in an amount not to exceed $1,250,000 to pay the costs to construct, furnish and equip: (a) replacement of the District’s Pre-K facility; (b) ADA and secure entry improvements at West Bourbon Elementary School; (c) fire alarm system improvements at the Uniontown Junior/Senior High School; and (d) all other necessary improvements related thereto (collectively the “Project”); and (e) to pay costs of issuance and interest on said general obligation bonds during construction of the Project; all pursuant to the provisions of K.S.A. 10‑101 et seq., K.S.A. 25‑2018(f), K.S.A. 72‑5457, and K.S.A. 72‑5458 et seq.?
The special election will take place on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Dec. 12
Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-5832
Bourbon County, Kansas
Brandon Whisenhunt
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
December 12, 2024 9:00 a.m.
- Call Meeting to Order
- Flag Salute
- Approval of Consent Agenda
- Approval of Minutes from 12/5/2024
- Public Comments
- Pam and John Speer Sr.- Road Issue
- Department Updates
- Public Works
- Pinnacle Broadband Letter of Support
- Real Property Relief Application-494 263rd Terrace
- Consideration of Moving Meetings to Mondays
- 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.
USD234 Board of Ed. Minutes for Dec. 9
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, December 09, 2024
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, December 09, 2024, for their regular monthly meeting at the board office.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
11-11-24
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – October 18, 2024 – $1,693,896.64
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
MS Band Fundraising
December 2024 KASB Policy Updates
Special Education Director, Tonya Barnes, recognized Jannah Farrington for being named the 2024 Coach of the Year for the Southeast Region’s Special Olympics. Jannah is in her 12th year at the district. Jannah along with Rhonda & Damien Perkinson, Stacy & David Brown, Laryn Schnichels, Kristal Castillo, and others worked to build and decorate the Special Olympics Express that won first place in the Fort Scott Christmas Parade. She has been instrumental in expanding the Special Olympics department which includes track & field, bowling, and soon to come basketball.
Superintendent Destry Brown reported on enrollment from the start of school until December. He also gave a brief update on the Preschool building and where the district is with the remodeling of the building.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided the Board with an update on the football field turf replacement with the hopes it will be finished ahead of schedule. He explained about a few projects in the buildings that are being done and that we will hear about the financial audit as soon as they have completed it.
Tonya Barnes, Special Education Director, updated the Board on the next CAT AID payment that will be coming later this month. She and others will be starting a new hire orientation in January and following monthly for all new employees to make sure they equipped and ready to work within the district.
Mina Query, Principal at Eugene Ware, presented a slideshow for the Board. She presented pictures from the Family Engagement Camping Night that focused on reading. The teachers have been working on interventions that have had a significant impact. She also went over a few reports to show how the students have improved. Students were present from Mrs. Keating’s Enrichment groups. They help with the student store, parent monthly parent letters, and they really enjoy being a part of her group. A couple of members from the Leadership Club were present to explain about their trip to Greenbush to learn about how to become a leader. They also worked with Wreaths Across America to help raise money for fifteen wreaths to be placed at the National Cemetery. Mrs. Query complimented the teachers and staff for working together as a team for the better of the students.
KESA Accreditation Plan for information only. Each district is to choose a District Goal and our choice was Structured Literacy. Superintendent Brown explained how the district is working toward that goal.
There have been three applicants for the open board seat. The Board decided to have a special meeting in January to interview and choose an applicant.
The Board Approved the following items:
- Pre-Employment Drug Screening
- Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation, INC Grant
- Kingbird Solar Energy Contribution Agreement
- School Bus Purchases (71 Passenger & Bus with Lift)
- Maintenance Truck Purchase
The Board tabled the following items:
- 10 Passenger Van Purchase
- Towerpoint Acquisitions Letter of Intent to Purchase Interest in Wireless Site
There were no comments during public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
December 09, 2024
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
Button, Tim – Resignation – Bus Driver
Flanner, Kevin – Resignation – Supplemental – Girls’ Volleyball Head Coach – High School
Krull, Michael – Retirement
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations for the 2024-25 school year:
Doherty, Andrew – KRI Teacher
Fountain, Justin – 6th Grade Math Teacher – Middle School
Classified Recommendations for the 2024-25 school year:
Durkin, Jennifer – Paraprofessional – KRI
Herring, Sean T – Custodian – Middle School
Thorne, Deborah – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Supplemental Recommendations for the 2024-25 school year:
Armstrong, Jeff – Assistant Boys Basketball Coach – High School
Feedback, Brennen – Head Boys Basketball Coach – High School
Larsen, Danny – Assistant Boys Basketball Coach – High School
Martin, Dave – Assistant Swimming Coach – High School
Stepps, Trent – Assistant Boys Basketball Coach – High School
Multi-Day Fire Was Caused by Illegal Burning.
Fort Scott Firefighters worked for several days on an old bridge fire near the city’s dog pound on North Hill Street. The fire was located on the north edge of Fort Scott.
The department received a call on December 8 at 12:46 p.m. of a fire on the 400 block of North Hill Street.
The cause of the fire was determined to be illegal burning, according to FSFD Chief Dave Bruner.
The property involved in the fire was the bridge as well as a large debris pile under the bridge.
“We cleared the scene at 3:42 p.m. but spent the evening and next morning monitoring and extinguishing hot spots,” Bruner said.
The access to the fire and terrain around it made it difficult to get in close proximity to the fire, he said.
The initial call involved the Fort Scott Fire Department with five personnel, the Fort Scott Police Department, the Scott Township Fire Department- with four personnel, and the Garland Fire Department with two personnel assisting,