Category Archives: Government

KCC is laying groundwork to make Home Rebates available in Kansas and wants your input 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) is moving closer to launching the Kansas Home Rebates Program to help Kansas households lower energy costs and improve the comfort of their homes. Under the program, established by the Inflation Reduction Act, Kansas is set to receive $105.6 million to lower energy costs for low to moderate income households.

The KCC has partnered with HORNE, a nationally recognized professional services firm, to assist the agency with the program design, application development, and implementation process. As a part of the program planning process, the KCC is scheduling engagement sessions with stakeholders (Kansas utility companies, contractors, other State agencies, and the community) to ensure the Home Rebates program is tailored to meet the Sunflower state’s needs.

For Kansans to be able to access the rebates, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) must approve the program design and grant applications, which are due by January 31, 2025. Rebate funding is expected to be accessible to Kansas households in 2025 following the application submission and DOE approval.

In the meantime, Kansans can visit the KCC website for information on how to participate in the engagement sessions, learn more about the Home Rebates program, track the status, and find answers to frequently asked questions.

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Agenda for the Nov. 5 City of Fort Scott Meeting

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

November 5, 2024 – 6:00 P.M.

 

  1.     Call to Order
  2.     Roll Call

Tim VanHoecke,   Matthew Wells,   Dyllon Olson,   Kathryn  Salsbury,  Tracy Dancer

III.       Pledge of Allegiance

  1. Invocation
  2. Approval of Agenda
  3. Consent Agenda
  4. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1371-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of October 10, 2024 – October 29, 2024$ 673,364.99
  5. Approval of Minutes for October 15, 2024.
  6. Approval of Ordinance No. 3772 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 10.04 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE TO INCORPORATE STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCES for changes in STO for the 51st Edition of the Standard Traffic Ordinances publish in 2024
  7. Approval of Ordinance No. 3773 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 10.05 REGULATING PUBLIC OFFENSES WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS; INCORPORATING BY REVERENCE THE UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE FOR KANSAS CITIES, 40TH EDITION, “WITH CERTAIN OMISSIONS, CHANGES, AND ADDITION; PRESCIRBING ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS; AND PROVIDE CERTAIN PENALTIES
  8. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice #17591 – Project No. 24-414 – Horton St. and 6th Improvements – Salary $24,423.45
  9. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Pay Estimate No. 6 – Invoice #17589 – KDOT Project No. 06 KA-6898-01 – EEI Project No. 23-15A/ US-54 CCLIP Phase I – Design 67.8%$24,483.14
  10. Request to Pay – Project No. 24-414 – Horton St. & 6th Street Improvements – Heck & Wicker, Inc. – Application for Payment No. 4$402,686.80

 

VII.    Public CommentSign up required before the beginning of the meeting on register at the entrance of the Commission Room. Public Comments are for any topic not on the agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.

VIII.     AppearancesMust be scheduled with the City Clerk at least (1) week prior to the meeting             

              you wish to address the Commission. You will be scheduled on the agenda to speak on your topic.

  1. Casey Brown/Community Engagement Coordinator of SEK-CAP Update on current ridership and request for (2) Letter of Support and Matching Funds Request to continue services in 2025.
  2. Representative from American Legion – To discuss Memorial Hall meeting room.

 

  1. Unfinished Business
  2. Status of Building at 118 E. Wall – L. Kruger

 

  1. New Business

Public Hearing:

  1. Resolution No. 33-2024 – RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 418 S. COUCH – Tabled from October 15, 2024 – L. Kruger
  2. Consideration to Approve a Conditional Use Permit for a Verizon Telecommunication Tower at 2317 Maple – Planning Commission Case No. 1046 – Not recommended by the Planning Commission on October 2, 2024 – N. Nation
  3. Consideration to Approve a Rezoning Request from Commercial 1 (C1) to Industrial 2 (I2) at 602 E. 10th Street for the Purpose of Vehicle Storage and (Possible) Repair – Planning Commission Case No. 1048 – Recommended for Approval by the Planning Commission on October 2, 2024 – N. Nation
  4. Consideration of Petition to Vacate a Portion of Alley in Southside Park Addition submitted by Jason Marbery – N. Nation

 

Action Items:

  1. Approval of Annual Christmas Parade Permit on December 5, 2024 – B. Matkin
  2. Consideration of Bids for WWTP Maintenance and Installation Services – S. Flater
  3. Consideration of Bids for Demolition of Structures: 1721 E. Wall, 323 W. Wall, 1619 E. Pine and 402 S. Lowman Kruger
  4. Consideration for approval to remove (2) FAA-owned Visual Approach Slope Indicators (VASI) at Fort Scott Municipal Airport and replace with (2) City-owned Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI) – M. Wyatt/Planning, Housing and Business Development Director and Bryan Matkin/Asst. Manager-FSK
  5. Consideration of Approval to Pay Invoice #161277 – Champlin Tire Recycling, Inc. – $31,200.00 – $15,500.00 from Parks Tax Fund – $15,600.00 from KDHE Waste Tire Grant Program awarded January 2024 requiring 50/50 match Wyatt
  6. Consideration of Annual Holiday Bonus for City Employees Matkin
  7. Reports and Comments
  8. City Manager Comments
  9. Engineering Comments
  10.  Commissioners Comments
  11. City Attorney Comments

 

XII.      Adjourn

Unapproved Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission for Oct. 15

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of October 15, 2024                                                             Regular Meeting

 

A Work Session was held on October 15, 2024 at 5:00PM directly followed by the regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. Both meetings are available on the City of Fort Scott YouTube Channel. Time stamps according to recording.

 

The meeting called to order at 6:00PM. Commissioners Tim VanHoecke, Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells, and Kathryn Salsbury were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer.

 

Audience in AttendanceBrad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering, Officer Colby Davidson/FSPD, Norm Nation/Codes Enforcement, Jessica Oliphant/BakerTilly (via telephone), Michael Hoyt, Ann Rawlins, Don Banwart/President of OFGS, and Joseph Lotterer, Jose Montanez (via telephone)

 

  1. Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and B. Matkin said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda(Time stamp 2:05)

  1. Dancer requested the removal of Kathy Dancer from Appearances. She will appear at a later date.

 

MOTIONT. VanHoecke moved to add Approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for 12 N. Main Street – as it has been approved by SHPPO and satisfied the Commission’s request at the September 17, 2024, meeting –  to Unfinished Business – Item C.   D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTIONM. Wells moved to approve the Agenda as amended with the removal of Kathy Dancer and Item C added to Unfinished Business – 12 N. Main – Certificate of Appropriateness.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Approval of Consent Agenda – (Time stamp 3:56)

– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1370-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of September 25, 2024 – October 8, 2024$ 734,821.86

– Approval of Minutes for October 1, 2024.

– September Financials

 

MOTIONT. VanHoecke moved to approve the Consent Agenda.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

 

 

Public Comments (Time stamp 4:34) – No comments

 

Appearances (Time stamp 4:36) – No appearances

 

(Time stamp 4:50)

Unfinished Business

Status of Building at 118 E. Wall Requested documents from owner due per October 1, 2024, extension approved until October 15, 2024 –B. Matkin provided an update: have not received the requested Structural Engineer’s report, work is complete on the face of the building, contractor has moved out of the area, and (B. Matkin) spoke with the owner today and informed him that a structural engineer needs to look at it before it can be reopened.

 

Discussion was had about the work completed and the existing concerns of the building.

 

(Time stamp 6:43) J. Dickman provided his observations and his recommendation.

 

(Time stamp 8:23) Further discussion was had regarding the next step to verify that the building and Wall Street are safe to open.

 

(Time stamp 12:43) Jose Montanez addressed the Commission by telephone.

 

Clarification was made by the Commission and the work completed must be certified by a structural engineer.

 

(Time stamp 18:52) Discussion began regarding the City providing an independent structural engineering report.

 

(Time stamp 19:59) B. Matkin left the meeting and immediately returned (Time stamp 20:11).

 

ACTION:  J. Dickman will contact an independent structural engineer to complete the inspection of the building.

 

ACTION:  J. Montanez will reach out to the original structural engineer (Thomas Rewert) to see if he will certify the completed work.

 

ACTION:  T. VanHoecke directed J. Dickman and B. Matkin to hire a structural engineer to inspect the building.

 

(Time stamp 28:11) T. VanHoecke left the meeting and returned to the meeting (Time stamp 29:48).

 

  1. Dancer stated that the Commission agrees that the owner has not complied with the requests and that the condition of the building is not safe.

 

It was clarified that the City will get a 3rd party structural engineer to certify that entire building is not a public hazard. J. Montanez will seek certification from Thomas Rewert however the City will move forward with their inspection as a matter of due diligence for public safety.

 

(Time stamp 39:10)Consideration to Approve Renewal of the Downtown Historic District and Riverfront Park Common Consumption Area Permit (existing Ordinance No. 3756) – annual permit expires November 21, 2024 – Tabled from October 1, 2024.

 

  1. Matkin stated that he spoke with Jill Jaworski/Superintendent of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, and they have no issues with the extension of the Common Consumption Area to include the pavilion and Skubitz Plaza.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the renewal of the downtown Historic District and Riverfront Park Common Consumption Area Permit.

 

  1. Wells stated that the superintendent also stated that people are allowed to walk from Skubitz Plaza on to the Fort grounds (and back) with alcohol according to the National Park agreement with the current superintendent. They ask that people are respectful and obey all laws when doing so.

 

  1. Wells stated that the superintendent had also asked that sometime in the future, the Commission consider permanently closing the drive-through area in Skubitz Plaza to create an additional seating area and making all of Skubitz Plaza a pedestrian only area.

 

  1. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 42:11) Consideration to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness – 12 N. Main – Construction of An Exterior Metal AwningPreviously approved by the Design Review Board but denied by the City Commission on September 17, 2024. The Commission requested that the owner seek approval from SHPPO or use an approved material.

 

  1. VanHoecke stated that the owner came back with approval from SHPPO with the stipulation that it must be a matte finish and must not be the raised seams which satisfied the requirements of the Commission.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the request from Be the Light Boutique that was previously approved by the Design Review Board for 12 N. Main.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion. D. Olson, K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes.  M. Wells voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 4-1 VOTE.

 

New Business

 

Public Hearing:

(Time stamp 43:18)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Ordinance No. 3771 – Floodplain Management Ordinance – Pursuant to 44 CFR Sect. 60.3(d) – Regulatory Floodway Identified, K.S.A. 12-766 and K.A.R. 5-44-1 through 5-44-7 .  M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Nation stated that the ordinance is a renewal done every (5) years for FEMA in order to participate should we experience flood issues.

 

  1. Olson requested that on page 2 of the ordinance, that Linn County we changed to Bourbon County.

 

There was no public comment.

 

(Time stamp 46:18)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve Ordinance No. 3771 with the exception of changing Linn County to Bourbon County (page 2) to be considered approved once the correction is made.  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION APPROVED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 47:27)

MOTION:   T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 28-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 1721 E. Wall.  M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION APPROVED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Nation stated that the owner of record were contacted and stated it was inherited from their father. They do not want to repair it and ask that the structure be removed. There were no public comments.

 

(Time stamp 49:20)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the removal of the structure at 1721 E. Wall as directed by Resolution No. 28-2024.  D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 50:03)

MOTIONT. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 29-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 323 W. Wall. D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Nation stated that the project began December 11, 2023. The homeowner requested an opportunity to gather finances to restore the structure but was unsuccessful and tried to sell the property. The Codes department worked with the homeowner to give her time to find the means to save the home however the bids she received to restore the home were more than the value. He stated that the homeowner contacted Codes approximately (1) month ago and stated that she had exhausted her resources and had no problem with the structure being removed. There were no public comments.

 

(Time stamp 51:55)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Discussion was had regarding the condition of the home and salvaging architecture.

 

MOTIOND. Olson moved to approve the removal of the structure at 323 W. Wall as directed by Resolution No. 29-2024. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  D. Olson, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes.  K. Salsbury and M. Wells voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 3-2 VOTE.

 

Further discussion was had regarding the purpose of the City identifying and rectifying dangerous and unsafe structures.

 

(Time stamp 1:01:48)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 30-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 1619 E. Pine.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Nation stated that the owner of the property has not done maintenance on the property for years, has been sent multiple letters from Codes Enforcement but is now deceased. The son has removed what he wishes to keep from the structure and stated that the City can do as they please. The condition of the structure was discussed. There were no public comments.

 

(Time stamp 1:03:31)

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to close the public hearing.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the removal of the structure at 1619 E. Pine as directed by Resolution No. 30-2024.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 1:04:17)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 31-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 1105 E. Scott.  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Nation stated that all communication with the owners had been lost however the outside of the property was cleaned up last year but the issues with the structure were not addressed. Letters were sent and phone calls were made but there has been no response. There were no public comments.

 

(Time stamp 1:05:59)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Discussion was had regarding saving properties from demolition, the purpose of the Land Bank, and options for salvaging this property.

 

  1. Matkin left the meeting (Time stamp 1:10:30)

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to table Resolution No. 31-2024 regarding the structure at 1105 E. Scott until November 19, 2024, giving Codes the opportunity to reach out to the owner or heir of the owner to ask if they would be willing to donate the property “as is” to the Land Bank at which point he would need to be willing to fill out the required documents in order to obtain a clear title. It would then be presented to the Land Bank for approval or rejection. If rejected, the structure may need to be removed.

 

  1. Farmer left the meeting (Time stamp 1:11:53)

 

  1. Wells seconded the motion. T. VanHoecke, M. Wells, K. Salsbury and T. Dancer voted yes. D. Olson voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 4-1 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 1:12:32)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 32-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 402 S. Lowman.  M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Matkin returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:13:01)

 

  1. Nation stated that the owner of record is deceased. There is a son who had lived in the structure but has since left and his whereabouts are unknown. The tax status is unknown. There are children in the immediate area and safety is an immediate concern.

 

Discussion was had on the condition of the structure and prior history of it coming before the Commission. There were no public comments.

 

(Time stamp 1:14:19)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing.

 

  1. Farmer returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:14:25)

 

  1. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the removal of the structure at 402 S. Lowman as directed by Resolution No. 32-2024.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 1:15:01)

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 33-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 418 S. Couch.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Joseph Lotterer (resident of 418 S. Couch) addressed the Commission and stated that he had been staying at 418 S. Couch for the past year. When he moved in, the front porch was an attached structure that was falling in but it has been removed. He stated that he is still making repairs to the house. His friend Amanda is the owner of the house and it belonged to her mother. Amanda does not live in the home. J. Lotterer stated that he has her on the phone if they wanted to speak to her. The Commission declined.

 

  1. Nation stated that he does not have details because Leroy Kruger has been the one on this case. L. Kruger was not able to be present. N. Nation stated that the owner of record is deceased. J. Lotterer stated that Amanda is the next of kin, the daughter of the owner. He stated that he has removed the front porch roof, he is fixing the deck and is putting new siding and plywood up on the back side with more repairs to come. He stated that he only remembers receiving a letter to stating that he needed to get the yard cleaned up. Amanda moved out and left everything there but he was trying to get everything of his into the home so he was putting her stuff out into the yard. He does not have a vehicle so it is hard to get things cleaned up and hauled off but it’s a work in progress. He stated that it looks a lot better than it did but he does not remember getting a letter. He lives there with his friend. He stated the picture the Commission is looking at is an old picture and he has done a lot of work to it since then, a lot of clean up. He does not have a timeline for completion because he does not know what must be done. He saw the notice for the public hearing on the agenda.

 

  1. Olson stated that the name on the letter was different than the owner of record on the county parcel record.

 

  1. VanHoecke explained to J. Lotterer that he would like to table the consideration to a future meeting to clarify facts with the Codes Department regarding the letter that went out and other communications so the Commission can make a fair decision on the matter. J. Lotterer was asked to return to that meeting.

 

(Time stamp 1:21:50)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to table Resolution No. 33-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Unsafe Structure at 418 S. Couch until November 19, 2024. M. Wells seconded the motion.

 

ACTION:  T. VanHoecke requested that J. Lotterer leave his contact information for the Codes Department before he leaves the meeting.  J. Lotterer agreed.

 

All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Action Items:

 

Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 27-2024 – Operation Greenlight for Veterans – that in observance of Operation Green Light, the City of Fort Scott, Kansas encourages its citizens in patriotic tradition to recognize the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve freedom by displaying green lights in a window of their place of business or residence from November 4th through the 11th, 2024.  M. Hoyt addressed the Commission regarding his request to approve the Resolution. He stated that the draft came from the Kansas Association of Counties. They asked that the City or the County take a picture and they will include them in their publication.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve Resolution No. 27-2024 – Operation Green Light for Veterans.  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Wells left the meeting (Time stamp 1:25:41)

 

Consideration to Approve Healthcare MOU – B. Farmer stated that the County and the City have been working together to establish an ER along with Freeman Hospital.

 

  1. Wells returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:26:49)

 

He continued that the Commission was provided a copy of a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between Freeman and the County. The County will sign the document, but they want the City to approve it to form. He summarized a meeting that took place with Freeman Hospital that he, the City Manager, and the Mayor attended. This document is the first step along with a Funding Agreement. B. Farmer requested that the City Commission approve the document in form.

 

  1. VanHoecke stated that the terms and the amount are the same as what they had approved to give Amberwell.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the MOU for Healthcare to Freeman Hospital. D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Farmer explained the details of the Funding Agreement and stated that Freeman Hospital (Paula Baker) agreed to give an accounting of how the $600,000.00 is spent.

 

  1. Olson confirmed with B. Farmer that in the agreement, Freeman Hospital agreed to reimburse the money over the course of payments if they do not open.

 

  1. Farmer gave further details on what has been happening with the process of opening the ER.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the Funding Agreement for Freeman Health Center with the terms that were provided in the agreement for accountability of the money, money coming back if they do not open in order to get them the lump sum of money that will bring the ER in Fort Scott.  D. Olson seconded the motion.  D. Olson, K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes.  M. Wells abstained.

 

VOTE PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration to Approve Federal-Aid Fund Exchange Master Agreement – B. Farmer stated that this was an agreement to receive federal money for projects. He stated that he has reviewed it and encourages the Commission to approve.

 

MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the master agreement.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration to Appoint Ann Rawlins to the Fort Scott Planning Commission – Recommended by the Planning Commission on October 2, 2024, to fill the vacant seat of the (7) member Commission.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to appoint Ann Rawlins to the Fort Scott Planning Commission.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of MOU Between City of Fort Scott and Old Fort Genealogical Society (OFGS) for Usage of the Eastern Side, Lower Level of Memorial Hall

 

Discussion was had about the terms of the agreement.

 

  1. Lewis left the meeting at (Time stamp 1:40:21 and returned at 1:40:33).

 

  1. Rawlins distributed a map of the proposed plans and discussion continued with questions answered by D. Banwart and A. Rawlins. They confirmed that they have insurance for their contents as well as liability insurance for their space. D. Banwart described their plans for the OFGS which include a museum and the proposed agreement between the Katy Railroad Society, OFGS, and the railroad museum of Dennison, TX. Discussion was had about the status of the meeting space of the American Legion with the proposed improvements and the preservation and possession of historic City documents and maps that are stored at Memorial Hall.

 

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to table the discussion until the Commission can go through a few of the items in the MOU, correct the issues they might have, talk with the American Legion, and then present another MOU.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of a Change Order on Project No. 6 U-2455-01 Horton St. & 6th St. Project – Replace/Repair Inlet and Manholes J. Dickman informed the Commission about the scope of the repairs and replacement for a total of $22,384.36 and the addition of (4) working days on the project.

 

MOTION:  D. Olson moved to approve the change order as presented. M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

City Manager Comments:

– Bourbon County Commission announced a Burn Ban that includes the City of Fort Scott

– Water supply is good and Cedar Creek is open, Rock Creek is not open. If we do not receive rain, it may need to be opened

– Cape Seal Project Update – concerns about quality of work

 

City Engineer Comments

– Horton Street & 6th Street Project Update

– Structural Engineer has been contacted regarding 118 E. Wall

 

  1. Olson Comments:

– Requested moving the next meeting to November 6th

 

  1. VanHoecke Comments:

– Suggested volunteering for holidays

– Shop and support local businesses

 

  1. Wells Comments:

– Skubitz Plaza Repair Plan revisited

– Consideration to permanently close the road in Skubitz Plaza and Main Street as walking district only

 

ACTION:  B. Matkin will look into the status of the Skubitz Plaza Repair Plan.

 

 

 

 

  1. Salsbury Comments:

– Halloween Parade Permit – not needed due to no street closure

– Expansion of the School Speed Limit Zone on National to 8th Street

 

ACTION:  B. Matkin will start looking for grants for additional lights. Flags are already in place

 

  1. Dancer Comments:

– No comments

 

City Attorney Comments:

– Traffic flow changes at the Fort

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved for the City Commission to move into Executive Session for the purpose of a discussion pursuant to the personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The (5) City Commissioners, the City Attorney and the City Manager will meet in the City Managers office and will return to the Commission Room at 8:28PM).  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 2:28:10)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to come out of Executive Session.  M. Wells seconded the motion.  T. VanHoecke, M. Wells, D. Olson and T. Dancer voted yes.  K. Salsbury was not present for the vote.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.

 

MOTIONM. Wells moved for the City Commission to move into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion on the streets pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). The (5) City Commissioners, the City Attorney, the City Manager, and the City Engineer will meet in the City Manager’s office and will return to the Commission Room at 8:38PM.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  T. VanHoecke, M. Wells, D. Olson and T. Dancer voted yes.  K. Salsbury was not present for the vote.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 2:39:01)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to come out of Executive Session.  M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  D. Olson moved for the City Commission to move into Executive Session for the purpose of a discussion of the City’s IT Infrastructure pursuant to the matters relating to security measures exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(12). Open discussion would jeopardize such security measures. Executive session is needed to protect the infrastructure and the public. The (5) City Commissioners, the City Attorney and the City Manager will meet in the City Manager’s office and will return to the Commission Room at 8:55PM.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 2:56:18)

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to come out of Executive Session.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

(Time stamp 2:56:30)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn.  M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

OCTOBER 15, 2024 MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:56PM

 

 

 

 

 

_______________________________________________________________________

Submitted by:

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

KS October Total Tax Collections at $668.2 M; 3.4% Below the Estimate

TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends October with total tax collections at $668.2 million. That is $23.4 million, or 3.4%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 2.5% from October 2023.

Individual income tax collections were $311.5 million. That is $1.5 million, or 0.5% above the estimate, and up 4.3% from October 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $38.1 million. That is $21.9 million, or 36.5% below the estimate, and down 33.7% from October 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $294.6 million, which is $3.4 million, or 1.1% below the estimate, and down $11.4 million, or 3.7%, from October 2023.

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group, comprised of the Department of Revenue, Division of Budget, Legislative Research Department, and economists from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University will meet on Nov. 15.

Click here to view the October 2024 revenue numbers.

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Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards Nominations Open for 2025

TOPEKA – The Department of Commerce announced today that the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) is accepting nominations for the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards. Nominations for these prestigious honors will be accepted through Friday, December 13.

Last awarded in 2011, the accolades celebrate individuals, organizations and communities for their outstanding contributions and leadership in advancing the arts in Kansas.

“The Kelly-Toland Administration has been committed to developing and prioritizing the arts and creative businesses across our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “I am excited to reinvigorate these awards that will highlight Kansas leaders in the arts whose collective creativity is driving a significant portion of the state economy.”

An awards ceremony will be held in Topeka on February 20, 2025, to recognize excellence in the following areas: advocacy, arts education, community engagement and artistic achievement. Categories include:

  • Arts Advocate of the Year
  • Arts Community of the Year
  • Arts Leader of the Year
  • Arts Organization of the Year
  • Arts Patron of the Year
  • Emerging Arts Leader of the Year
  • Emerging Arts Organization of the Year
  • Excellence in Arts Education
  • Excellence in the Arts in Business
  • Excellence in Public Service in the Arts
  • Kansas Arts Legacy Award
  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement

“The arts inspire us, bring us joy and stimulate the state’s economy,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “The Governor’s Arts Awards acknowledge our vibrant arts and culture community for their contributions to a thriving Kansas.”

For more information about the nominations process or to submit a nomination, please visit here.

To learn more about the Kansas Arts Commission, visit here or contact Ben Stanton by email or phone (785) 213-5959.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

Horton Street Is Open, But Not Completed

Horton Street is open for the rest of the night. It is not done so please drive careful from 8th Street to Lakin Drive because the west lane is not paved. Emory, Sapp, and Sons will be back in the morning, and they tell me they will have the asphalt part completely done tomorrow, weather permitting or barring problems. So, with that, please use an alternate route tomorrow instead of Horton unless you live on Horton. This helps ESS but also eliminates slowdowns and possible accidents. Thank you, very much and Happy Halloween!

Brad Matkin
City Manager

City of Fort Scott

Kansas Cold Weather Rule takes effect Nov. 1

TOPEKA – The Cold Weather Rule, designed to help Kansans who are behind on their utility payments avoid disconnection during the winter months, begins  tomorrow and will remain in effect through March 31.

While the Cold Weather Rule is in effect, utility companies cannot disconnect a customer’s service when the local temperatures are forecast to drop below 35 degrees within the following 48-hour period. The Kansas Corporation Commission, the agency that regulates public utilities in the state, implemented the rule in 1983 to prevent utility companies from disconnecting a customer’s natural gas or electric service during periods of extreme cold.

The Cold Weather Rule also requires utility companies to offer a 12-month payment plan to allow consumers to maintain or re-establish service. Any residential customer with a past due balance will qualify for payment arrangements; however, it is the customer’s responsibility to contact their gas or electric company to make those arrangements.

Payment plan terms to maintain or restore service require that customers agree to pay 1/12th of the total amount owed, 1/12th of the current bill, the full amount of any disconnection or reconnection fee, plus any applicable deposit to the utility. The remaining balance must be paid in equal payments over the next 11 months, in addition to the current monthly bill.

The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of electric and natural gas utility companies under the KCC’s jurisdiction, however many municipal utilities and cooperatives have similar winter weather policies.

Information about the Cold Weather Rule is available on the Commission’s website. Kansans may also contact their local utility company or the KCC’s Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at (800) 662-0027 or 785-271-3140.

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Amended Agenda For Today’s Bourbon County Commission Meeeting

 

 

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

 

October 31, 2024 9:00 a.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 10/21/2024
  1. Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  2. Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk
  3. Approval of Longevity Pay-$55,900.00
  4. Election Update
  5. Countywide Food Drive
  6. Real Property Relief Application
  7. Tri-Valley Letter Transportation Letter of Support
  8. Brandon Whisenhunt-Operation Greenlight Resolution 13-24
  • Resolution Rescinding the Moratorium on Solar Projects
  • Termination of Prior Agreements with Hinton Creek Solar
  1. Discussion of Development Agreement, Road Agreements, and Decommissioning Agreements with Doral, NextEra, and Advance Power
  2. Commission Comments
  3. 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.

 

Kansas Corporation Commission warns consumers to beware of electric savings scam

 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission has received a report that an individual claiming to be working with the KCC is calling utility customers and offering a 30% discount on their electric bills. Based on what has been reported, the caller asks about Medicare or Medicaid eligibility, then asks for a credit card so the refund can be applied.

This individual is not affiliated with the KCC and the agency urges consumers to use caution if they receive a call. Above all, if you receive a call like this, do not provide credit card information. More information will be released if it becomes available.

Avoid Horton Street Traffic For A Few Days Starting Today

Horton update: Emory, Sapp, and Sons are laying asphalt on the east side of Horton today and will be to 18th Street by this evening weather permitting. The west lane is open, but we would like to keep all traffic that does not have to drive down Horton to go a different route due to safety reasons.
 There are several dump trucks, loaders, and rollers working on Horton and additional traffic could cause an accident that we want to avoid.
Use another route if possible unless you live on Horton, or it is an emergency.
ESS is doing a great job along with Heck and Wicker getting this project done in a timely, safe, and quality manner, but we need the citizens’ help by going on one of the side roads instead of Horton.
It will be for only a couple of more days, weather permitting, then it will be good to go, and I will assure you the end result is going to be awesome! Thank you as always for your support, your patience, and your care for Fort Scott.
Brad Matkin
City Manager

City of Fort Scott

Amended Agenda For The Bourbon County Commission on October 31

 

 

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

 

October 31, 2024 9:00 a.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 10/21/2024
  1. Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk
  2. Approval of Longevity Pay-$55,900.00
  3. Election Update
  4. Countywide Food Drive
  5. Real Property Relief Application
  6. Tri-Valley Letter Transportation Letter of Support
  7. Brandon Whisenhunt-Operation Greenlight Resolution 13-24
  8. 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.