Overhauling the Organ Transplant and Donation Program
On Wednesday, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra testified before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Related Agencies. The hearing came hours after the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) announced its intent to overhaul the organ procurement and transplant network (OPTN) contract. During the hearing, I secured a commitment from Secretary Becerra that the department will work to create a more transparent and open process for the OPTN contract.
The sole contract to oversee the nation’s organ transplant system has been held by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) for more than 30 years. In 2018, UNOS developed a new liver allocation policy that colluded against Midwest and Southern states. As the result of a lawsuit, UNOS was required to publicly release emails in 2021 that revealed clear collusion between UNOS, a New England-area organ procurement organization, and others as they crafted the new liver allocation policy.
For years, my former colleague Roy Blunt and I have continually flagged for HHS how harmful and unfair the liver allocation rule is for the Midwest and the South. New data released last week by the Washington Post confirmed Kansas has been significantly harmed by the new liver allocation formula since implementation began in 2020. In 2021 alone, between 51-75% of livers donated in Kansas were transported to an out-of-state patient. Our state also saw a 50% decrease in liver transplants from 2019 to 2020. These statistics are devastating to a state where organ donations remain high but where we are seeing more deaths as a result of the unfair liver allocation formula.
HRSA’s proposal to divide up the OPTN contract and open competition for contracts to new organizations is certainly a step in the right direction. I am hopeful the department is beginning to take the life and death battles Americans are facing through the current OPTN system more seriously.
You can watch my full questioning of Secretary Bercerra here.
CHC/SEK INCREASING PATIENT AWARENESS AS MEDICAID UNWINDING BEGINS
On March 31, thousands of Kansans with Medicaid coverage (KanCare) are at risk of losing their coverage as the state moves forward with eligibility redeterminations for more than 500,000 KanCare recipients. The process has been referred to several ways, including “unwinding,” eligibility reviews, renewals, redetermination. The Medicaid unwinding process also affects Medicaid recipients in Missouri and Oklahoma and in all states, the redetermination process begins when the Medicaid recipient receives a letter from their respective state that they must respond to in order to remain covered.
At Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas about 20,000 patients are enrolled in Medicaid coverage and Community Health Workers are working to inform covered patients that renewals are coming back, and to be looking for a letter from their state plan.
At the start of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Congress enacted the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which included a provision that state Medicaid programs keep recipients continuously enrolled through the end of the month in which the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) ends, in exchange for enhanced federal funding.
Three years later, the continuous enrollment provision is set to expire on March 31, and states including Kansas are starting to re-determine annual eligibility for all of their Medicaid recipients. All beneficiaries will receive a Medicaid eligibility redetermination letter requesting information that they must respond to in order to remain covered.
Some patients will no longer be eligible due to income, age, or health status change.
“One of our concerns at CHC/SEK is that we know the pandemic displaced many KanCare/Medicaid] recipients from their traditional mailing addresses,” says Leah Gagnon, Director of Patient Engagement. “Our worry is whether or not they thought to notify KanCare or their respective agency of their address change, because if not, they might not know to respond to their redetermination letter.”
Gagnon says there are three important questions every KanCare or other Medicaid patient or their guardian needs to ask themselves They are, “Have I moved in the last three years? If so, did I report my change of address to the appropriate Medicaid agency? And, have I seen an official redetermination letter in my mail box and responded to it? If not, you are at risk of losing Medicaid coverage.” she says.
CHC/SEK has planned an extensive awareness campaign including signs and flyers, text messaging, social media posts and videos to educate Medicaid enrollees of the importance of the coming redetermination letters.
At CHC/SEK clinics, Community Health Workers and Benefits Enrollment Specialists are available to assist patients in the process and can reach them directly by calling 620-240-8919.
Medicaid Recipients can also go to Medicaid.gov and click on their state map, where it takes them to their state Medicaid website to update their address and other information.
Medicaid recipients can also contact their appropriate agencies by telephone. The number for Kansas Kancare is 800-792-4884 For Missouri, the MoHealthnet number is 573-751-3425 and, for Oklahoma the Oklahoma Health Authority/Soonercare number is 800-987-7767.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present.
Alan Drake, Lori Collier, Jeff Collier, David Klein, Larry Howard, and Malinda Bailey were present for some or all of the meeting.
Jim Harris opened the meeting at 9:00 with a flag salute.
Clifton Beth made a motion to amend the agenda to move the executive session after the road work session so that County Counselor Meeks could attend. Nelson Blythe seconded and all approved.
Jim Harris welcomed all the citizens and thanked them for coming to the 2023 Road Work Session. Jim stated Public Works is doing a great job and that we have come a long way in 10 years, but we still have a long way to go. Dustin Hall handed out the proposed road plan to the citizens attending the meeting. Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, introduced Dustin Hall who is the Assistant Public Works Director and Chad Brown who is the Public Works Foreman. Eric started by stating the proposed road plan is broken down by district but there is no set order on how the roads are listed within each district.
The roads in District 1 were discussed with Eric stating a section of Maple Road needs to be finished in order for Public Works to chip and seal Maple Road. Eric said he has spoken to contractors for a second opinion on Yale Road and they have recommended milling up the road as well. The sub-base has failed and the road from the west side of the Hidden Valley Lake to Mapleton needs to be milled and gravel brought in to compact and build a good base. Dustin said they will try to do an extra mile next year on Yale Road since it is four miles to the lake. Jim said he wants to make sure that before the extra mile is done on Yale Road that the focus is on a road that has been milled for 5 years.
The roads in District 2 were discussed next with Eric saying Jayhawk Road from 69 Highway to Liberty Bell Road needs overlay work done. KDOT is currently checking to see if that section of road has been turned over to the county yet. Eric said if the road has not been signed over to the county then KDOT will have to have the road in an acceptable condition before the county will agree to take the road over. Jewel Road, 230th Street, and 232nd Terrace, which make up Marco Estates, were discussed next with Eric saying they tried to get to those roads last year but ran out of funding. Eagle Road from Garland to 267th Street is on the plan, and it was stated Eagle Road is in dire need of help. The last area discussed was 227th Street from Kansas Road to the city limits. Eric said it would cost $37,306.17 to produce the asphalt and he thinks the city should pay half of that. Jim said he has talked to the City of Fort Scott and they have it on their agenda for approval.
District 3 has more roads listed on the plan than the other two districts, but Eric pointed out that the other two districts have taken precedence the last two years and District 3 has not had much asphalt work done. Eric said they want to do something a little different than they have in the past and start now with a one-inch overlay then come back in July or August and chip and seal the roads. Eric has spoken to contractors and KDOT and this will save money. The roads discussed for this technique are Soldier from 215th to 245th Street, 245th Street between Soldier Road and Valley Road, and Valley Road between 245th Street and 267th Street. They plan to chip and seal 215th Street from Native Road to Yellowstone Road. Jim wanted to make sure that everybody knew Clifton allowed roads in other districts that were dangerous to get priority the past two years so that is why he is getting so much more this year.
There were many roads that were listed under an extra heading that Eric would like to try to get to this year if the funding is available. Eric said he would like to get started right away and lay four inches of asphalt on Eagle Road from 69 Highway to 230th Street, but he needs to get a budget report, so he knows how much carryover he has from last year. Jim stated since it is almost April, he hopes that the end of year will get closed out soon so that Eric can know how much money he has to work with. Jayhawk Road from Liberty Bell Road to 245th Street was also listed under the extra’s section and Jim said it is in need of chip and seal since it was such a dry year last year the pavement moved and cracked. Eric commended Dustin on all the hours he had worked to create the plan. Dustin said that asphalt oil is down about $100.00 per ton and fuel is down about $1.00 per gallon so that will help make our limited funding stretch farther. The laydown machine has a new engine in it, and they are working out a few bugs but hope to have it running soon. Jim said if sales tax continues to be up he is confident we can do one mile on Eagle Road. It was discussed if sales tax is up doing one mile of Yale Road, and Dustin said the traffic really needs to compact the road for a year to get a good base before any asphalt is laid. Dustin said that a lot of the asphalt roads are in better shape now and that they plan to chip and seal which will make the asphalt last another 5 to 7 years.
Alan Drake spoke about the roads in Marco Estates stating they have deteriorated over the last several years and they need help. Alan said that the last work done to the roads was chip and seal several years ago, but recently all that has been done is patching. Mr. Drake said he appreciates all the work that the road crews and Commissioners do. Larry Howard asked about sales tax and when we find out how much we will receive. Jim explained that we do projections for the year based upon the first sales tax payment we receive in the year, but that sales tax has been up the past few years. Nelson questioned if Yale Road was milled how soon it would be before the work was started, and Eric said it could be the beginning of April. Clifton said the only way to fix the road is to mill the road and that it is a safety issue. Eric assured Nelson that they will not do any milling on Yale Road without notifying him and getting the word out to the citizens as well. Eric said that he will bring the asphalt plan back on Thursday for approval.
Jim asked for a short break, and the meeting started back in session at 9:37.
Justin Meeks, County Counselor, asked for a 12-minute executive session to discuss security measures. Nelson made a motion for an executive session under 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 to include all three Commissioners and Justin Meeks for 12 minutes returning at 9:53. Clifton seconded the motion, and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session with no action at 9:53. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:51. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the Deputy County Clerk present.
Michael Hoyt, Tiana McElroy, CJ Robinson, Patty Ropp, Deb McCoy, Jason Silvers, Lora Holdridge, and Clint Walker were present for some or all of the meeting.
Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute, followed by a prayer by Mark McCoy.
Clifton Beth made a motion to approve the minutes from last week’s meeting. Nelson Blythe seconded, and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to approve accounts payable totaling $160,243.72 and payroll totaling $208,645.33. Nelson seconded, and all approved.
Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, presented the monthly fuel report. Jim asked if the Sheriff’s department was still getting fuel from the county barn. Eric stated they quit around January 1st or the 4th, but that EMS is still getting fuel as well as all other departments. There was a delay getting the card system installed, but Eric made some phone calls last week and they are moving forward. The sidewalk and concrete have been completed, but there is some painting that still needs to be finished up. There are four or five more stalls than before, we had 15-16 open previously and now there are 20 parking spaces available. Eric spoke about citizens having problems with nails or metal pieces in the roads and he has done some research and visited with other counties. He said Crawford County uses magnets that are attached to the back of their graders. Eric said they ordered 6 magnets to be installed on the back of our graders and will see how that works out for the issue. He also stated that he knows there has been a lot of flat tires from picking up nails and other things in our dump trucks, so we will see about the outcome and if the magnets will work for us as well. The cost for all 6 magnets was $3,000. Jim said this was a great idea and thanked Eric. The soybean paperwork was finalized with ADM, and they will be transporting 100% of the bean dumpsters to our landfill to make compost along with their pod dumpsters, which will be coming to Bourbon County twice a week. Jim asked if Eric if they had found a good used compost machine and Eric replied they have possibly found a compost turning machine because you have to add different mixtures, then you have to turn it so often, and sometimes add moisture. They have found a used one that they are keeping an eye on, and they are going to look at it in about a week. Jim said the compost could be sold, given away, or use it as C and D cover. Eric responded with absolutely, as well as fill in some holes and other things as needed. Jim thanked Eric and said he appreciated all the work he has done. Eric said they have had a few road projects this week with one at 230th and Hackberry where there were multiple potholes that have been milled and leveled out. East of the intersection of 250th & Fern there was a really soft spot, the road is getting a lot of traffic from gravel trucks hauling to Missouri. The area has been torn up, filled in, compacted, and the road is up and going again. 40 MPH speed limit signs are installed on Eagle Road from 69 Highway to 250th street. Eric said he had a meeting with Troy Howard from KDOT yesterday and that the meeting went very well. They met for about an hour and a half and went over various topics such as asphalt, chip and seal, rights-of-way, and equipment. They also talked about grants coming up and Eric said Troy is going to have an individual get back in touch with us that is more familiar with grants. Jim asked if he was our area engineer, and Eric said yes, he is our area engineer, and he is out of Iola. Last week Eric received his yearly order of culverts, and now they will be working on getting crossroad tubes put in and replacing some entry tubes as well. A total of $53,000 was order and they also received some larger culverts; and that they have bigger projects they need to address. Eric said they have the demolition permit in hand for the house at 201 Crawford and have made contact with the utility companies and as soon as the utilities are removed, they will proceed with tearing the house down. Eric reminded everyone that March 20th at 9:00 a.m. there is a work session for hard surface roads. Nelson asked Jim what was the name of the gentleman that was at the commission meeting last week who spoke about Maple Road, and Jim replied with Mr. Arnold. Nelson asked Eric where we were on that situation. Eric stated he looked it up in the MUTCD, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, and that Jim was correct with his statement you shall have striping anything over 6,000 vehicles. Anything less is dependent on whether the Commissioners would like to make a policy or not. Eric looked at the average flow through KDOT, and the average daily traffic count was approximately 768. Nelson stated that Mr. Arnold said it was west of town, but where does he live exactly and what hill is he talking about? Nelson stated that 185th is the cell tower, and asked where would it be in relation to that. Eric stated it would be a mile back East. Nelson then stated what would it look like following rules to put some striping to make Mr. Arnold happy and make it a little safer. Eric said if you’re setting a policy, there you are going to have other requests, it’s completely up to you, the Commissioners, whether you want to start. Nelson said we could deal with the request as they come. Jim stated his thought is if we do one hill we should consider doing all hills, because there’s no difference. He said he sees the attorney standing there who will say well you striped that hill and my client got hurt on this hill why didn’t you stripe it, and we will have no excuse. Jim doesn’t have a problem if they want to go that direction, but he thinks that it is all or none. Nelson stated on Eric’s point, he thinks it’s the one that people complain about the most often would take priority. Jim said he would think it should, but it shouldn’t tell us what the law says as far as us setting policy. Nelson asked what’s all the hills on pavement? Eric said you’re talking about a lot, it’s going to be very expensive, because we do not have the material or the equipment to be able to paint that. So, we would have to either buy equipment, or contract out with someone. Jim said he certainly didn’t want to sound negative on safety, because he does support it 100%, but he thinks before anything gets passed, they need more information from Eric on what it might cost us to do all the hills. Then it is just a domino effect from other things, such as the white passing lines, or no passing zones. Jim would like all the information on how the project would be performed, he told Eric he knows it may take a month or two, but he wants all information before he can make a decision. Nelson said if he is really concerned about that hill then an easier and cheaper solution would for that section to be decreased from 45 to 30. Eric said we can decrease the speed limit all we want, but it doesn’t control people. Clifton said as far as he is concerned, it is all or none. Eric said he will work on getting pricing for the Commission.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to add Teri Hulsey, EMS Director, to demonstrate the LUCAS 3 equipment. Nelson seconded, and all approved.
Clifton said he saw the LUCAS a few days ago, and asked Teri to come and explain and demonstrate this phenomenal piece of equipment that will save lives in Bourbon County. Teri Hulsey, along with Chris Rosenblad and Taylor Morrison spoke and gave a demonstration of the new device. The LUCAS device is an automated CPR device that delivers non-stop, completely perfect, CPR every time. Without this device it takes two people to perform CPR, one to do compressions and one for ventilation. A board is placed behind the patient’s back, the device is strapped over their chest, you attach their hands to the device, you press a few buttons, and the machine does perfect CPR every time. Chris said these are a huge benefit and you are very lucky if you work in a truck that has one because he has seen ER’s that don’t even have them. Teri said the great thing about the device is it is connected to the patient, so they can move the patient, carry them downstairs even all the while it is performing CPR. Without this device when you are trying to move someone, especially in older Victorian homes with the winding staircases where you are having to try to turn and maneuver a backboard down the stairs, you are not giving good quality CPR. Clifton said this is an unbelievable piece of equipment, and it is his goal to get at least two more to put one in each ambulance and one in the ambulance housed at the fire station and he has received commitment from Legacy Health to help purchase one device. Clifton said he is going to reach out to other entities, organizations, and foundations in our community to help purchase the devices, which are $18,500 each. Clifton said they also are needing to get new Hamilton ventilators in each of the ambulances which are $16,500 each. Teri said the first time they used the LUCAS device it saved the life of a Bourbon County resident. Clifton commended Teri, Chris, and Taylor; stating that Teri is now fully staffed and has a paramedic on each ambulance in her service. Clifton said the quality of service is unbelievable and Teri said they are probably the only ones in a 200-mile radius that is staffed that way. Teri said she spoke with Jon, who came from Mercy, and he said it has probably been six years since they were fully staffed. Jim said thank you to Teri and to Clifton for going out and trying to get funding for these devices. Teri handed out a form showing manual CPR vs CPR with the LUCAS device. Chris stated that they work in 2-to-3-minute shifts performing CPR and you can visibly see the difference on the monitors when a new person starts CPR as their compressions are stronger: but with the LUCAS device the compressions are always consistent. Clifton made a motion to allow Teri to go out to bid for a new ambulance. The Commission approved a re-mount two years ago, before Teri was EMS Director, but it didn’t get ordered. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved. The Commissioners thanked Teri, Chris, and Taylor for coming and demonstrating the new device.
Clifton presented Resolution 09-23 which creates an ambulance equipment reserve fund to move additional funds from the end of the year to a separate fund that will be used to cover the cost of ambulance replacement. Clifton made a motion to approve Resolution 09-23, Nelson seconded, and all approved.
Clifton said people should realize how lucky we are to have what we have in regard to EMS. Jim said he was very impressed with what he just saw.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:34. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved.
Sen. Marshall Unveils Updated Federal Grants Handbook
(Washington, D.C., March 22, 2023) – Today, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. announced an updated federal grants handbook now available on his official website. This updated handbook is designed to help Kansans understand existing federal funding opportunities and how to navigate the application process.
“Our federal agencies offer a wealth of opportunities for the people, places and organizations of Kansas. Unfortunately, the process to secure these federal grants can be complicated and overwhelming,” Senator Marshall said. “This updated handbook serves as an easy to understand, accessible guide for Kansans exploring each agency’s funding opportunities, including sources for specific issues such as childcare and wastewater infrastructure, and how to apply for them. My office stands ready to assist Kansans applying for federal funding in any way we can.”
Sections in Senator Marshall’s updated handbook include:
How to apply for federal funding;
Funding opportunities available from each agency;
Funding for specific issues or needs; and
Federal lending opportunities.
You may click HERE to access the updated federal grants handbook. This material is also available in the “Grant Requests” section under the “For Kansans” tab on www.marshall.senate.gov.
Kansans in need of assistance with federal grants should contact Senator Marshall’s Salina office by calling 785-829-9000.
Commerce Announces Virtual Job Fair in March For State Agency Jobs
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers to attend a State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29. This virtual fair will focus on highlighting employment opportunities within many of the state’s 98 government agencies.
“Our Kansas agencies are brimming with opportunities for Kansans to have good paying jobs with excellent benefits and a variety of employee perks and discounts,” Lt. Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “We need talented people that are interested in doing important and meaningful work across the state to join one of our many winning teams.”
Registration is required to participate in the event, regardless of previous participation. The Virtual Job Fair portal features a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.
Candidates can participate via any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.
Click here to register for the March 29 Virtual Job Fair.
About KANSASWORKS:
KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com.State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.
Hosting ATF Director in Kansas to Announce New Partnerships
On Monday, I hosted the Director of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) Steve Dettelbach and the Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Karhlton Moore in Kansas to announce new partnerships in Wichita and Hutchinson.
Wichita
At Wichita State University (WSU), we announced a new $75 million ATF forensics laboratory on site at the Innovation Campus. This state-of-the-art lab will bring more than 100 new good-paying, high quality jobs to Kansas, support ATF’s efforts to solve crimes and provide comprehensive and advanced technology support to federal, state and local agencies not only in Kansas but across the nation.
In addition, the location of the lab on campus at WSU will provide students premier access to ATF employees and a federal law enforcement lab, working to solve crimes around the country. WSU holds a long history of excellence in its criminal justice program – the second-oldest in the nation. The announcement of this partnership showcases how WSU is leading the country in crime intelligence and further highlights the great work already happening on campus.
Hutchinson
Following our time in Wichita, I hosted ATF Director Steven Dettelbach and BJA Director Karhlton Moore at the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center in Hutchinson to announce the launch of a new training program and center on site.
As someone who was raised in a rural part of Kansas, I know that resources are not always as abundant there as they might be elsewhere. And yet, our rural law enforcement professionals play a vital role in protecting these communities and keeping their citizens safe. As the lead Republican of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the Department of Justice, including the ATF, I am committed to supporting programs that provide critical services to the ATF and enable law enforcement to fulfill their mission of protecting and serving our communities.
The public safety leadership program at KLETC has already helped provide the necessary tools, resources and training for rural departments and officers, and the funding we announced this week will help continue this program and the great results we have already seen. This center creates a space, not only in Kansas but, regionally, where we can encourage and support training new generations of leaders in law enforcement.
The Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease Must be a National Priority One in 3 seniors in the U.S. will develop Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. This horrific disease is rapidly claiming the minds and lives of millions and requiring thousands of family members to serve as caregivers for their loved ones. The good news is that finding a cure for Alzheimer’s is achievable, and it must be a national priority.
NAPA, the National Alzheimer’s Project Act, and the Alzheimer’s Accountability Act, are two bills that provide the foundation for federal investment and coordination in finding a cure for Alzheimer’s. Congress must reauthorize both pieces of legislation before 2025 to avoid losing ground and to effectively treat and one day cure Alzheimer’s disease.
You can read my full op-ed in The Kansas City Star here.
Welcoming WSU Tech President to Testify Before Commerce Committee
On Thursday, I welcomed WSU Tech President Dr. Sheree Utash to testify before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation in a hearing titled, “Strengthening the Aviation Workforce.” As ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Aviation, I led the full committee hearing with Chair Maria Cantwell.
You can watch my full opening remarks during the hearing here.
It was an honor to lead the hearing and gain insight into how Congress can continue to support the growing demands in workforce, particularly in the upcoming FAA Reauthorization legislation. Our nation and state’s success within this vital sector depends on those who train, educate and prepare our students to be ready contributors within the aviation industry. In order for our nation to continue leading in aviation, it will take innovative programs like those Dr. Utash has helped implement.
You can watch my questions during the hearing here.
VA Committee Hearing on Electronic Health Records As the lead Republican of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I led a committee hearing on the VA’s Electronic Medical Health Records Modernization Program. The VA aims to create a unified health record for servicemembers and veterans, enabling more consistent health care. However, it is frustrating that the opposite has happened. The five medical centers using the Oracle Cerner Electronic Health Records are struggling with delays, disruptions and rising costs. I have concerns about the VA’s ability to manage this program, and these issues have had unintended but unacceptable impacts on the health of the veterans the program was created to serve.
The VA and Oracle Cerner are making improvements, but they are gradual, and many of the most extensive, most significant fixes are many months or even years away. To justify additional spending on this program, we need assurances that every penny spent is focused on creating and implementing a system that serves veterans and provides them with the high-quality care they deserve. We need to know if the VA still wants and believes in this program and what will be different this time under the next group of leaders.
Meeting with NCAA President Charlie Baker This week, I met with NCAA President and former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker. President Baker shared his vision for the future, including the need for transparency and accountability within the name, image, and likeness (NIL) system, which has allowed collegiate student athletes opportunities to benefit from their identities. In addition to NCAA rules currently allowing student athlete compensation, nearly 30 states have introduced or enacted NIL legislation, which creates a confusing system of inconsistent state laws that would be cumbersome for schools and athletes to navigate.
Last Congress, I introduced the Amateur Athletes Protection and Compensation Act to establish a consistent, federal standard to allow student athletes greater control of their name, image and likeness while maintaining the integrity of college sports that we all know and love. I will continue to work with my colleagues to find a federal solution that provides a level NIL playing field for Kansas schools and student athletes, and I look forward to working along with President Baker in the future to create positive impacts in Kansas through college athletics.
Meeting with Kansans KARL Program
This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Class XVI of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership (KARL) Program, a group consisting of 30 of the best and brightest professionals from across our state. During our meeting, we discussed the challenges that rural communities face such as access to health care and broadband service, both of which are vital resources to the success of rural communities and those who live there. We also spoke about the importance of public service and investing in one’s local community. Participants of the KARL Program, both past and present, are the reason rural communities in Kansas continue to thrive, and I look forward to working with the members of this program to preserve the rural way of life in our state.
Emporia State University Honors College
It was great to visit with Emporia State University (ESU) Honors students and faculty before their tour of the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday. I always appreciate the chance to speak with Kansans during their visits to our nation’s capital, and I enjoyed visiting with this talented and accomplished group of students. Thank you to ESU faculty member Amy Baza and students Hailey Waltner, Alexis Hatvik, Hailey Kisner, Alyssa Behrens and Alejandra Escobar for taking the time to say hello.
The Benson Family
I enjoyed visiting with Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce President Blake Benson and his family while they were in Washington, D.C., this week for a tour of the Capitol during spring break. We discussed the growth taking place in the community as Blake also serves as an Economic Development Director for the City of Pittsburg. Spring break brought many Kansans to Washington, D.C., and they ran into Frontenac High School students from back home as well as a group from Wichita State University.
Joining DAV Award Presentation for VA Committee Staff
I was pleased to take part in honoring two of my staff members from the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs as they received awards from Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in recognition of their work to improve benefits and services for our nation’s veterans. Samantha Gonzalez has worked on both the House and Senate VA Committees and was recognized for her thoughtful and collaborative work on legislation improving how the VA delivers high-quality health care to veterans. Lindsay Dearing, an Army combat veteran with 12 years of service, was recognized by DAV for her work over several years advancing the Toxic Exposure in the American Military Act, the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act, and the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our PACT Act.
I am grateful to have both these dedicated professionals on my team for their work to make a difference in the lives of veterans. I also want to thank Shane Liermann, Jon Retzer and Naomi Mathis for presenting these awards on behalf of DAV and for being valuable partners in achieving our common goal of best serving veterans and their families.
Meeting with U.S. Canola Association
On Wednesday, I visited with members of the U.S. Canola Association about their priorities for the upcoming Farm Bill that will benefit canola growers in Kansas. Michael Stamm, a canola breeder and researcher at Kansas State University talked about the importance of research, especially research geared towards winter canola. During this meeting, we discussed the growing demand for biofuels and the role canola plays in filling that demand. We also spoke about the recommissioning of the crush plant in Goodland which will create new jobs and provide new opportunities for canola growers in the area.
Scoular Announces Investment in Kansas Oilseed Crush Facility This week, Scoular announced that it will recommission the former sunflower crush plant near Goodland and make investments to retrofit the facility to crush both soybeans and canola. This project will create up to 40 new jobs and is expected to begin operations in Fall 2024.
In small towns across Kansas, every business counts. Scoular’s decision to invest in the crush facility in Goodland will increase marketing opportunities for farmers and contribute to the economic prosperity of northwest Kansas. The Goodland oilseed processing plant is an important juncture for farming in western Kansas and food and fuel production for the nation.
You can read more in the High Plains Journal here.
Calling on CISA to Undertake Cybersecurity Analysis of Chinese-Made Drones
As a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, I joined my Senate colleagues in urging the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to reevaluate the risks associated with the use of drones manufactured by Shenzhen DJI Innovation Technology Co., Ltd. (DJI), a company with deep ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). We also requested that CISA update and make publicly available its analysis of the security risks posed by the company.
DJI is the world’s largest manufacturer of personal and professional drones with significant sales to operators of critical infrastructure and state and local law enforcement in the United States. It was reported in 2021 that almost 90% of the consumer drone market and approximately 70% of the industrial market in North America was monopolized by DJI. CISA previously addressed the DJI threat in 2019 with an “Industry Alert,” stating “strong concerns” and warning against the purchase of its equipment.
The widespread use of DJI drones to inspect critical infrastructure allows the CCP to develop a richly detailed, regularly updated picture of our nation’s pipelines, railways, power generation facilities and waterways. This sensitive information on the layout, operation and maintenance of U.S. critical infrastructure could better enable targeting efforts in the event of conflict.
You can read the full letter to CISA Director Jen Easterly here.
Supporting Children with Disabilities and Their Caretakers
I joined my colleague Senator Robert Menendez to introduce legislation to bolster U.S. support for children with disabilities, helping support local disabilities rights organizations and families of children with disabilities around the world.
The International Children with Disabilities Protection Act would create the “International Children with Disabilities Protection Program,” a grant program within the State Department to empower individuals with disabilities. Additionally, this legislation reinforces U.S. policy to protect against the unnecessary institutionalization of children with disabilities and to help promote the development of laws and policies that support the full inclusion of children with disabilities in families.
Children with disabilities deserve a place in society where they are respected, loved and treated with basic human dignity. This legislation helps protect the most vulnerable children around the globe and gives them opportunities to succeed by helping keep children out of harmful institutions and supporting their families.
Leading Effort to Award Congressional Gold Medal to the “Hello Girls”
This week, I joined my colleagues on the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs to introduce legislation to honor the landmark service of the brave women who connected American and French military forces on the front lines of World War I. The Hello Girls Congressional Medal Act would award the Congressional Gold Medal to the women of the U.S. Army Signal Corps, also known as the “Hello Girls.”
Connecting more than 150,000 calls per day, and doing so six times faster than their male counterparts, female switchboard operators played a crucial role in World War I. Despite their service, it took decades for them to receive veteran status and therefore be recognized as some of our nation’s first women veterans. This Congressional Gold Medal will serve as way to honor the trailblazing Hello Girls and recognize their important contributions to our history.
Meeting with American Royal Association President & CEO Jackie McClaskey
On Friday, I met with Jackie McClaskey, President and CEO of the American Royal Association, to receive an update on the construction and timeline of their future new facility in Kansas City, KS. I am pleased to see the care and attention that the American Royal is taking to make certain that this new center supports the tradition of American agriculture as well as the broader regional economy, and I want to thank Jackie for her leadership in these efforts.
Now Accepting 2023 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2028. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, September 1, 2023. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.
FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS: You can learn more about the U.S. Service Academy application and nomination process from my Service Academy Coordinator Lisa Dethloff, representatives from each service academy, current academy students and parents of academy graduates. Details for the upcoming information sessions are below.
Chanute High School Auditorium 1501 W. 36th Street Chanute, KS 66720
2) TUESDAY, MARCH 28 – OLATHE 6:30-8:00 p.m. CT
American Legion Post #153 410 E. Dennis Avenue Olathe, KS 66061
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
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced new grant funding that will help communities gain valuable Certified Sites designation for shovel-ready industrial sites in Kansas.
Kansas Certified Sites designation is issued when communities successfully demonstrate their property is primed for development and ready for investment, which is a huge advantage in recruiting and expanding businesses. The program is designed to reduce the risks associated with development. A Kansas Certified Site is attractive to investors and site selectors because it:
Provides key detailed background information on a site’s price, availability, utilities, site access, environmental records and potential site development costs
Encourages faster site selection decisions
Can help greenfield or expansion projects get started.
As part of the new Certified Sites Grant program, the Kansas Department of Commerce will provide matching dollars up to $10,000 for eligible entities to use toward completion of a Kansas Certified Sites program application. Funding is available for non-metro counties with a population less than 50,000.
“We know smaller communities might not have the necessary resources to pursue a Certified Sites designation, so this is a great opportunity for them to compete on a more level playing field,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Tolandsaid. “Supporting the application process for communities to promote shovel-ready sites will lead to more new businesses and good jobs throughout our state.”
Eligible expenditures covered by Certified Sites Grant funds include consulting services, marketing costs and engineering expenditures related to the completion of the Certified Sites program application.
All applicants are required to provide matching funds on a 1:1 basis. Eligible sources for matching funds include:
General operating funds
In-kind donated services related to the Certified Sites program
Valuation of Brownfields Program, which provides funding and technical assistance in assessing properties that might be or are perceived to be contaminated.
“As Kansas continues to grow at a record pace, the need for our communities having their sites ready and certified for growth is of the utmost importance,” Certified Sites Program Manager Corrie Ann Campbell said. “This grant opportunity ensures that this significant designation will be more attainable for our cities and counties.”
Successful recipients of Kansas Certified Sites designation receive many benefits, including marketing support for attracting investors. Kansas Certified Sites are incorporated into a variety of marketing campaigns and strategies which includes:
A profile on the Kansas Department of Commerce website
Visibility on Kansas Department of Commerce social media channels.
Applications for the Kansas Certified Site program are accepted year-round.
For more information about Certified Sites or the Certified Sites Grant funds, click here or contact Campbell at (785) 213-7312 or [email protected].
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 and 2022, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.
The Regular Council Meeting on March 14, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:10PM by Mayor Jurgensen due to lack of quorum until then. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman (7:49), and Brad Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Danny and Linda Nation (4 State Sanitation), Jason Thompson and Josh Beck (Green Environmental Services), Mary Pemberton, Matt Quick (Bourbon County Appraiser), City Attorney Chase Vaughn, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Public Hearing for Citywide trash service – City Attorney Vaughn explained that this hearing was to select a vendor. A proposal was presented by 4 State Sanitation and Green Environmental Services. Review of proposals and discussion ensued.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-1 (Ervin) to accept Green Environmental Services as the vendor to develop citywide trash service
Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program, Matt Quick explained the changes to the program effective January 1, 2023 and the City needs to sign a new interlocal agreement to continue participating in the program.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to authorize Mayor to sign Interlocal Agreement to participate in the Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program effective, retroactively, January 1, 2023.
CITIZENS REQUEST
Mary Pemberton asked if the Ruritan could have permission to use temporary sidewalk chalk paint on sidewalks in park for summer events and to install a couple permanent tether ball poles near the basketball court.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to allow use of temporary sidewalk chalk paint and install tether ball poles in park
She also would like to have a mural painted on the side of their building at 103 Third St. A grant is available through the Kansas Department of Commerce but would require the city or a 501c3 non-profit to sponsor the grant. She is asking for the City to sponsor the grant. She would fill out the application and submit and do all paperwork for the project.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to sponsor the Kansas Department of Commerce grant application for a mural project at 103 Third St with Mary Pemberton assisting Clerk Johnson with paperwork
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger present the February 2023 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $372,900.60, Receipts $52,647.39, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $62,804.62, Checking Account Closing Balance $349,967.37. Bank Statement Balance $361,106.48, including Checking Account Interest of $71.94, Outstanding Deposits $997.19, Outstanding Checks $12,136.30, Reconciled Balance $349,967.37. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,218.20, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,841.76, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,494.13, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $436,521.46. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $149.28, and Utility CDs $153.11 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $302.39. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. February 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; for Total Transfers of $12,776.00. Net Loss for the month of February $22,933.23, Year-to-Date Net Income $6,415.40. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $34,307.86 (21.9%), Expenditures $36,475.15 (16.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $5,771.49 (15.7%), Expenditures $4,272.23 (10.4%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $18,906.33 (15.5%), Expenditures $20,506.69 (12.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $46,670.92 (31.2%), Expenditures $28,433.11 (15.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,093.98 (28.1%), Expenditures $0 (0%). The March 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $58,768.71 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
Minutes of February 14, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
City Superintendent Rich asked if he should seed the area around the new public restroom. Council said yes
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported an accessory building permit application was received and approved. Certified letters were sent to 404 Washington, 204 Fourth, and 308 Union. One of the letters was not claimed but they have started on compliance. He will follow-up on the one that has not responded. There was discussion on other properties that need attention for debris, brush piles, etc. He will make contact with those property owners. He will write up something for the newsletter.
Clerk Johnson asked the Council to consider implementing a succession plan for City Superintendent and City Clerk positions. Both will be retiring in the next few years. She also requested they consider new software for fund accounting and utility billing that will be compatible with auto read meters and a link on the website to pay online. They will have those discussions at the budget worksession in a couple months.
2023-2024 Insurance renewal quote was presented.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to accept the 2023-2024 EMC insurance renewal quote of $17,513 and add the public restroom to the property coverage
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – absent
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – nothing
OLD BUSINESS
School Pond Project – Don George was here and picked up the final paperwork for submission. It has been submitted and we received an email that it was being processed for payment. Project came in under budget and the amount from KDWPT will be the percentage requested, not the dollar amount of the original application.
Placemaking Project – Clerk Johnson asked if members filled out the community perception survey which is a component of the grant requirements from Healthy Bourbon County Action Team. Mayor Jurgensen is still working on convening a committee to recommend exercise equipment.
American Rescue Plan Act update – the bathroom upgrade is finished and came in under budget. We expended $19,135 of the $40,288.82 of the ARPA funds and the $5,000 grant from Bourbon County REDI. Clerk Johnson would like the can lighting added to the Clerk’s office and Mayor Jurgensen would like mini blinds on the west windows of the community center. The remaining $21,153.82 will be discussed at budget worksession.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to give Clerk permission to have can lighting installed in Clerk’s office and get mini blinds for the west windows of the Community Center
KMGA/MMGA Prepay project – legal counsel has approved the ordinance to authorize participation and the participation agreement.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to adopt Ordinance No. 200 an Ordinance authorizing execution of the Natural Gas Prepay Participation Agreement with the Kansas Municipal Gas Agency and all other necessary documents with respect thereto and providing for the pledge of the revenues of the natural gas utility system of the city to secure such agreement and authorize the Mayor to sign documents
NEW BUSINESS
None
Mayor Jurgensen started a discussion on street repair planning for this year. He will gather and bring more information on milling and asphalt to the next meeting
Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 9:32PM
KDHE Announces Recipients of Waste Tire Product Grants 45 grants distributed to recipients across Kansas
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has announced the recipients of waste tire product grants.
“These grants will help handle the costs of proper disposal of many materials scrap tires and assist many important local efforts to promote litter and waste reduction. KDHE applauds the creativity and innovation that our communities have in reusing materials that help support the mission of protecting the health and environment of all Kansans” said Janet Stanek, Secretary, Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the tire excise tax, a $0.25/vehicle tire fee.
The grants totaled $522,312.25, an almost 20 percent (19.8%) increase from 2022 were awarded to 45 organizations to fund projects that include the use of recycled tire products, including playground surfacing and picnic tables.
Central Heights Elementary, Franklin – $886.50
City of Andale, Sedgwick – $2,453.50
City of Augusta, Butler – $1,167.00
City of Bel Aire, Sedgwick – $1,617.00
City of Chetopa, Labette – $4,468.00
City of Eudora Parks and Recreation, Douglas – $1,556.00
City of Fort Scott Aquatic Center, Bourbon – $2.835.00
City of Frankfort, Marshall – $3,266.00
City of Girard, Crawford – $2,695.00
City of Gypsum, Saline – $4,376.00
City of Hudson, Stafford – $13,485.00
City of Lawrence Parks and Recreation, Douglas – $19,713.86
City of Lebanon, Smith – $1,094.00
City of Louisburg, Miami – $4,396.00
City of Manhattan, Riley – $11,158.00
City of Minneola, Clark – $4,250.84
City of Mission Hills, Johnson – $12,582.50
City of Mound Valley, Labette – $5,239.00
City of Netawka, Jackson – $14,092.95
City of North Newton, Harvey – $1,134.00
City of Osage City, Osage – $14,106.40
City of Ottawa, Franklin – $5,892.00
City of Overbrook, Osage – $1,088.00
City of Palco, Rooks – $11,232.00
City of Parsons, Labette – $4,522.00
City of Randall, Jewell – $886.50
City of Salina, Saline – $31,800.00
City of Sedgwick, Harvey – $2,072.00
City of Sterling, Rice – $2,571.50
City of Valley Falls, Jefferson – $2,599.00
Larned Recreation Commission, Pawnee – $4,744.00
Ozark Colony Cemetery District, Anderson – $1,917.00
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The Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease Must be a National Priority
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