Category Archives: Government

Government, Kansas

KS August Tax Collections Are Below Estimate

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August total tax collections at $640.1 million; 3.7% below the estimate

TOPEKA – The State of Kansas closed August with total tax collections at $640.1 million. That is $24.5 million, or 3.7%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 1.9% from August 2022.

Individual income tax collections were $299.3 million. That is $25.7 million, or 7.9% below the estimate, and down 2.6% from August 2022. Corporate income tax collections were $25.1 million, or 25.5%, higher than the estimate and up 62.3% from August 2022.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $292.4 million, which is $5.6 million, or 1.9%, below the estimate and down $10.5 million, or 3.5%, from August 2022.

Click here to view the August 2023 revenue numbers.

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Government, Kansas

Help For Saving Energy and Lowering Monthly Bills

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KCC approves energy efficiency programs for Evergy customers

 

TOPEKA – In a 2 to 1 vote this morning, the Kansas Corporation Commission approved a settlement agreement pertaining to Evergy’s application for a Demand-Side Management (DSM) Portfolio featuring nine energy efficiency programs aimed at helping customers save energy and lower their monthly bills. Today’s decision is not related to Evergy’s pending rate case, which is a separate docket.

Discussions on the Energy Efficiency program application have been ongoing between Evergy, Commission Staff, and other stakeholders since the application was filed in December 2021. Agreement on the program offerings came relatively quickly. However, determining the best way to measure and fund the programs resulted in differing opinions.  Due to KCC staff concerns regarding potential cost, the Commission was presented with two proposals — a full slate of nine programs including PAYS® or a modified, lower cost option featuring only five programs.

The original nine-program offering was approved today with conditions attached to help ensure accurate performance measurements and fiscal accountability while avoiding duplication of funding available under the Inflation Reduction Act.  The approved settlement agreement is expected to have a total bill impact of less than 1-2% to implement and maintain the energy efficiency programs, while producing lower overall costs for customers in the long run. These costs will not appear on customer bills until mid-2025 at the earliest.

Commissioner Dwight Keen filed a dissenting opinion (included in the docket with today’s order) explaining his preference for a cost effective alternative DSM Energy Efficiency proposal that he believes provides substantial benefits to Evergy ratepayers at a significantly lesser cost, and more directly addresses his concerns regarding a possible duplication of incentives contained in the Federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Today’s order states:

“The Commission’s view of “just and reasonable rates” and “the public interest” is broader than immediate bill impacts. The Commission must evaluate not just the cost of programs, but also what customers are receiving for that cost. Here, customers are gaining access to programs that allow them to better control their energy usage and their bills. The Commission received very positive feedback from the public that they want access to these types of programs.

“While there is ample evidence that the system as a whole will benefit from the KEEIA portfolio, the Commission is also compelled to provide opportunities for low and fixed income customers to control their bills. In the Commission’s view, programs serving these communities make rates more just and reasonable for all. The continued absence of energy efficiency tools for these communities contributes to less just and reasonable rates.”

The order also references the Kansas Energy Efficiency Investment Act (KEEIA) K.S.A. 66-1183, previously passed by the Kansas Legislature.

“Nearly ten years ago, the Kansas Legislature and Governor set State policy promoting the establishment of cost-effective energy efficiency programs. At that time, it became the policy of this State to help utility customers use energy more efficiently and in a manner that sustains or enhances those customers’ incentives to use energy more efficiently. The intent of this Order is to implement the goals of our State’s highest policymakers and ensure those Kansas residents and businesses with the greatest need to control their bills have options available to do so.”

The nine programs approved today include the following:

1) Whole Home Efficiency Program: Provides rebates, discounts, and on-bill financing for HVAC and building envelope measures in single and multifamily residences. It will also provide no cost energy assessments and discounted energy savings kits.

2) Home Energy Education Program: Helps rural and low-income customers use energy more efficiently through marketing, outreach, and education.

3) Home Demand Response Program: Helps customers reduce their energy use during peak demand periods. It also provides opportunities for customers to receive free thermostats and water heater controllers.

4) Hard-to-Reach Homes Program: Provides enhanced incentives, no-cost home upgrades, and no-cost energy assessments and savings kits for low-income and rural customers.

5) Whole Business Efficiency Program: Provides both variable and fixed incentives to help business customers install efficient equipment and building envelope improvements.

6) Business Energy Education Program: Provides tools, resources, and guidance for businesses interested in saving money on energy. The program focuses on small businesses.

7) Business Demand Response Program: Helps business customers decrease their energy usage during periods of peak demand.

8) Hard-to-Reach Businesses Program: Offers enhanced incentives to small businesses and non-profits.

9) Pilot Incubator Program: Creates a pathway to identify and evaluate new DSM program concepts to meet changing customer needs and integrate evolving technologies.

More details and the timeline for implementation will be shared as the programs are developed.

Today’s order is available here. A recording of today’s Business Meeting featuring comments by Commissioners, is available on the KCC YouTube channel.

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Government, Kansas

Birth Certificates in Kansas Must Reflect Biological Sex of the Person

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Kobach statement on Foster v. Stanek order

TOPEKA – (August 31, 2023) – Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach today issued the following statement in response to the Court’s order in Foster v. Stanek:

“The Court’s opinion was well reasoned and thorough. The trans activists in this case attempted to nullify state law. The Court held that SB 180 means what it says – birth certificates in Kansas must reflect biological sex. As long as I am attorney general, the laws of Kansas will be enforced as written. The Legislature decided that birth certificates must reflect biological reality, and they were quite clear in how they wrote the law.  Today’s decision is a rejection of the activists’ and Governor Kelly’s attempt to twist the English language beyond recognition. The Court has told the Governor what the law clearly means. We now expect the Governor to follow the law and cease changing birth certificates to something other than biological sex at birth.”

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Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County To Receive $1Million for Bridge on 60th Street, South of Uniontown

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The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has made bridge funding awards to projects including one in  Bourbon County.

Governor Kelly Announces 35 Local Bridge Projects Across Kansas to Receive $42.3M

DODGE CITY – Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed today announced that 35 local and off-system bridge projects across the state will receive a combined total of $42.3 million as part of two local bridge improvement programs that capitalize on new revenue from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is nearly $48.8 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs to take advantage of BIL, the Kansas Department of Transportation more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).
“A stronger transportation system and safer bridges keep our communities and economy moving,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, all of which are essential to getting people and goods where they need to go. Yet almost 5,000 of those bridges simply cannot meet our state’s needs in a modern world, which is why these investments are critical for making our state a better place to live and work.”
The project announcements took place in Dodge City to highlight the largest local bridge grant being awarded:  $7 million for the construction of a new northbound bridge on 14th Avenue over the Arkansas River. Dodge City is matching $2 million toward the $9 million total cost of the new bridge.
In addition to Governor Kelly and Secretary Reed, Dodge City Mayor Michael Burns and Representative Shannon Francis, Liberal, Chair of the House Transportation Committee, participated in the announcement.
“We welcome opportunities to partner with Kansas cities and counties to replace or rehabilitate deteriorating bridges,” said Secretary Reed. “The needs are high, and these programs allow KDOT to assist communities move projects forward that support the transportation needs of Kansans.”
The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Off-System Bridge program (OSB) is awarding $20.5 million in Fiscal Year 2025 funds to 20 projects across the state. The Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) is awarding $21.8 million in Fiscal Year 2024 KDOT funds to 15 projects, with 16 deficient bridges to be replaced and an additional 12 to be permanently removed from local systems.
The OSB and KLBIP are targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.
For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 176 applications requesting $162.4 million.
The list of recipients and project locations for KLBIP and OSB are below. A link to a map showing the projects can be found here.
2024 Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program Projects
Local Government Agency Location Local Cost        (match/non-participating, utilities, etc.) Local % Match Requirement Maximum KDOT Match Funds Funds for Bridge Removal Maximum Funds Awarded
Doniphan County RS 2128 – 2.7 miles west, 0.2 mile south of Highland $86,503 10% $700,000 $50,000 $750,000
Leavenworth County Golden Road – 1.9 miles, 3.0 miles east of Linwood $737,117 20% $2,000,000 – $2,000,000
Lyon

County
 Road P – 7.0 miles west, 0.5 mile south of Neosho Rapids over Cottonwood River $736,025 15% $3,000,000 – $3,000,000
Marshall County 24th Road – 2.7 miles north, 2.5 miles east of Bettie over Robidoux Creek Tributary $6,000 10% $437,000 $83,000 $520,000
Osage

County
 RS 1471 – 2.0 miles east, 0.2 mile north of Lyndon $256,306 10% $1,112,500 $62,500 $1,175,000
Lincoln County 183rd Road – 1.9 miles south, 0.8 miles west of Lincoln $20,982 0% $1,050,000 $50,000 $1,100,000
Marion

County
 310 Road – 2.0 miles south, 0.9 miles east of Tampa – 10% $275,000 $50,000 $325,000
Mitchell County J Road – 1.3 miles south, 2.2 miles east of Beloit over Plum Creek $9,012 5% $683,000 $142,000 $825,000
Russell

County
 182nd Street – 11.0 miles south, 2.0 miles west of Russell over Landon Creek $96,838 5% $900,000 – $900,000
Elk

County
 Osage Trail – 0.1 mile south of Moline over Wildcat Creek Tributary $65,521 0% $ 750,000 – $ 750,000
City of

Bel Aire
 North Oliver – south of East 45th Street $98,173 20% $180,000 – $180,000
Harper

County
 N.W. 110 Avenue – 0.5 miles west, 3.7 miles north of Attica over W. Branch Bluff Creek $78,213 5% $580,800 $69,200 $650,000
Rice

County
 22nd Road – 6.0 miles east, 1.8 miles north of Sterling over Cow Creek $147,205 10% $1,500,000 – $1,500,000
Sumner County N. Oliver Road – 2.1 miles north of Belle Plaine over Cowskin Creek Tributary $315,478 10% $1,095,500 $54,500 $1,150,000
City of

Dodge City
 14th Avenue – Northbound over Arkansas River $2,061,197 15% $7,000,000 – $7,000,000
TOTAL $4,714,570   $21,263,800 $561,200 $21,825,000
 
 
 
2025 Off-System Bridge Program Project Recommendations
Local Government Agency Bridge Location Local Cost        (match/non-participating, utilities, etc.) Local Cost % Maximum Funds Awarded (covering 100% of Construction and CE)
Jefferson

County
 McCall Road – 1.9 miles north of Oskaloosa over

Slough Creek
 $84,632 6.7% $1,400,000
Jackson County 246th Road – 1.0 mile south of Circleville over

Elk Creek Tributary
 $51,871 8.4% $750,000
Nemaha County O Road – 0.5 mile south, 1.5 miles east of Kelly $62,245 6.8% $950,000
City of Atchison Patriot Street – over Brewery Creek, one block west of U.S. 73 $117,939 10.3% $1,200,000
Morris

County
 K Avenue – 2.2 miles south, 0.6 miles east of White City over West Fork Neosho River $98,282 12.7% $750,000
Washington County W Washington Street – in Hanover over Little Blue River Tributary $90,638 9.0% $1,000,000
Dickinson County 1100 Avenue – over Turkey Creek, 2.6 miles east of K-15 $103,742 8.5% $1,250,000
Sheridan County 125 E – 14.9 miles south, 12.5 miles east of Hoxie over Saline River $50,233 5.1% $1,000,000
Decatur County L Lane – 0.4 mile west of Clayton over

Prairie Dog Creek
 $46,411 5.3% $1,000,000
Trego

County
 EE Road – 13.0 miles south, 5.6 miles west of Trego Center over Sand Creek $50,779 5.7% $950,000
Graham County DD Road – 6.0 miles south, 1.3 miles east of Densmore over Bow Creek $50,233 4.3% $1,200,000
Sherman County 32 Road – 1.4 miles north, 3.0 miles east of Edson over South Fork Sappa Creek Tributary $44,773 8.7% $500,000
Norton

County
 Road BB – 1.3 miles east of Lenora over North Fork Solomon River $50,233 5.1% $1,000,000
Bourbon County 60th Street – 5.9 miles south, 1.0 mile west of Uniontown over Hinton Creek Tributary $76,442 7.7% $1,000,000
Franklin County Texas Road – 1.0 mile east, 3.4 miles south of LeLoup over Walnut Creek $108,110 10.1% $1,000,000
Allen

County
 Nebraska Road – 0.5 mile south, 3.2 mile west of Moran over Elm Creek $70,982 8.3% $850,000
Crawford County 690th Avenue – 1.0 mile north, 0.7 mile east of Walnut over Little Walnut Creek Tributary $93,914 10.4% $900,000
Cowley

County
 232nd Road – 2.5 miles south, 3.5 miles west of Dexter over Grouse Creek $424,295 17.5% $2,000,000
Harvey

County
 60th Street – 9.3 miles east of I-135 over East Whitewater Creek $87,362 8.9% $950,000
Rush

County
 Avenue Q – 0.5 mile south, 1.9 miles east of Nekoma over Branch of Walnut Creek $62,791 8.0% $850,000
TOTAL   $ 1,741,275   $ 20,500,000
 
Photos from today’s announcement for media use can be found below.
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Fort Scott, Government

Splash Pad Closed Today Reopens For the Weekend, Then Closes For the Season

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Per City Manager, Brad Matkin, Management Action #5 of the Water Warning Plan:

The City of Fort Scott Splash Pad will be closed Wednesday 8/30, Thursday 8/31, and Friday 9/1 reopening on Saturday 9/2, Sunday 9/3, and Monday 9/4 from 8am to 7pm. After Monday at 8pm the Splash Pad will be closed for the season.

 

Here is the plan in its entirety as it has been posted:

 

Water Warning Plan

DROUGHT RESPONSE

Effective 8/30/2023

The City of Fort Scott addresses its short-term water shortage problems through a series of stages based on conditions of supply and demand with accompanying triggers, goals, and actions. Each stage is more stringent in water use than the previous stage since water supply conditions are more deteriorated. The City Manager is authorized by ordinance to implement the appropriate conservation measures.

Water Warning

Goals:

The goals of this stage are to reduce peak demands by 20% and to reduce overall weekly consumption by 10%.

Triggers:

This stage is triggered by any one of the following conditions:

  1. The City’s storage has fallen below 70 percent capacity and will not recover within a normal amount of time.

Education Actions

  1. The City will make news releases to the local media describing present conditions and indicating the water supply outlook for the upcoming week.
  2. Water conservation articles will be provided to the local newspaper.

Management Actions: What measures the city will do

  1. The City water supplies will be monitored closely.
  2. Leaks will be repaired within 24 hours of detection.
  3. The City will monitor its use of water and will curtail activities such as hydrant flushing and street cleaning.
  4. The City will curtail its water usage, including operation of fountains, watering of City grounds and washing of vehicles.
  5. The City of Fort Scott Splash Pad will be closed Wednesday 8/30, Thursday 8/31, and Friday 9/1 reopening on Saturday 9/2, Sunday 9/3, and Monday 9/4 from 8am to 7pm. After Monday at 8pm the Splash Pad will be closed for the season.
  6. Water will be drawn from the City’s reservoirs as needed.

Regulation Actions:

  1. The public will be asked to voluntarily make efficient use of indoor water, i.e., wash full loads, take short showers, do not let faucets run, etc.
  2. Outdoor water use, including lawn watering and car washing will be restricted to before 10:00 am and after 9:00 pm.
  3. All consumers will be asked to limit or eliminate nonessential water uses including, but not limited to the following uses:
  4. Watering lawns, shrubs, trees.
  5. Washing automobiles.
  6. Filling swimming pools or using water in fountains and evaporative air conditioning systems.
  7. Refilling of swimming pools will be allowed one day a week after sunset.
  8. Outdoor watering will be restricted to use of a hand-held hose or bucket only.
  9. Excess water use charges for usage of water over the amount used in the winter will be considered.
  10. Waste of water will be prohibited.

As of right now, the City water supply is not affected by the “Water Emergency” set by the Governor of Kansas. That emergency was to allow the counties noted to request water to be taken out of “state” water sources. The City of Fort Scott owns Lake Fort Scott and Cedar Creek is not a state-owned lake, so permission is not required.

Lake Fort Scott, Cedar Creek, and Rock Creek are the three sources we use to get water for the City of Fort Scott river intake system.

As of right now, Cedar Creek has a good supply of water, but we are taking water from this source daily, and we have not taken water from Lake Fort Scott. If we are forced to take water out of Lake Fort Scott, we will issue a Water Warning Stage #2 which will require additional water restrictions.

We are in a drought situation that must be taken seriously, and the City of Fort Scott will do whatever possible to maintain good levels of water for the citizens. Please help us by following the restrictions that have been imposed.

If you have any questions, please contact me at the email address below.

Thank you,

Brad Matkin

City Manager

City of Fort Scott

[email protected]

 

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

KS Hunting Regs Summary/Hunting Atlas Available

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Get Your 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Regulations Summary, Hunting Atlas

PRATT – The wait for Kansas’ top hunting-related publications is over. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has confirmed that the state’s 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary and 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Atlas are available now. Both publications are free, available online at ksoutdoors.com, and in print at nearly all license vendor locations. Hunters may also request mailed copies by calling (620) 672-5911.

The hunting regulations summary includes common rules, methods of take, season dates, bag and possession limits, as well as a list of game wardens by county, and more.

The hunting atlas includes maps of all publicly accessible hunting land in Kansas, to include Walk-in Hunting Access areas, state and federal public wildlife areas, and more. And soon, Garmin GPS and Google Earth files will be available for download, making finding a place to hunt even easier.

To access electronic versions of the 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting and Furharvesting Regulations Summary and 2023-2024 Kansas Hunting Atlas, visit ksoutdoors.com or download the Go Outdoors KS mobile app, here.

Whether you decide to keep them on your phone, laptop, or hardcopies in the truck or boat, no hunter in Kansas should be without them.

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Fort Scott, Government

Agenda for The Fort Scott Commission Meeting on Sept. 5

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR        

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

CITY HALL COMMISSION ROOM – 123 SOUTH MAIN ST.

September 5, 2023 – 6:00 P.M.

 

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

III.    Approval of Agenda:

  1. Consent Agenda:
  2. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 15, 2023
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1343-A — $815,071.98
  4. Request to Pay – Kansas State Treasurer – General Obligation Bond payment – Invoice R1231001122677- Series 2016 – $213,646.88
  5. Request to Pay – Kansas State Treasurer – General Obligation Bond payment – Invoice R1231001122676 – Series 2021-A – $631,000.00
  6. Request to Pay – Kansas State Treasurer – General Obligation Temporary Notes payment – Invoice R1230907122468 – $5,456,103.33
  7. Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. – 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 4 – Engineer’s Project No. 23-409 (22-306) – Work completed Jully 22, 2023 – August 25, 2023 – $383,678.87

 

 

  1. Public Comment:   Sign up required.  Comments on any topic not on agenda

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

 

 

 

  1. Old Business:

 

  1. Consideration of MOU with Bourbon County Health In All Policies Task Force – Tabled from July 25, 2023, August 1, 2023, and defeated motion on August 15, 2023.

 

  1. Consideration of changes to City’s Purchasing Policy – tabled from August 15, 2023, for more information.

 

 

 VII.   Appearances:

  1. Rachel French – Update of 1st Colored Infantry Mural
  2. 1)  Frank Halsey – Temporary Park Closure of back of Gunn Park – Marmaton Massacre Festival – September 16, 2023 (8:00AM) – September 17, 2023 (5:00PM).

     2)  Frank Halsey – Temporary Park Closure – Gunn Park including Shelter Houses – NICA Race – April 26, 2024 (3:00PM) – April 28th, 2024 (4:00PM).

  1. Rob Harrington – Bourbon County REDI Update
  2. Justin Meeks – Golf Course property discussion

 

VIII.   Public Hearing:  2024 Revenue Neutral Rate and Budget Hearing – B. Hart

 

  1.  New Business: 
  2. Consideration of Resolution No. 15-2023 – Resolution to Exceed Revenue Neutral Rate – Approving a Levy Rate Exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate but (1) Mill Lower than 2023 – B. Hart
  3. Consideration of Resolution No. 14-2023 – Resolution Adopting 2024 Operating Budget and Final Budget Book – B. Hart
  4. Consideration of September 19, 2023, as date for 2023 budget amendment public hearing – B. Hart
  5. Consideration of Resolution No. 13-2023 – Resolution and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure – 1001 W. 2nd St. – Hearing on October 17, 2023 – T. Russell
  6. Consideration of Resolution No. 12-2023 – Resolution and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure and Accessory Structures – 1801 W. Wall – Hearing on October 17, 2023 – T. Russell
  7. Consideration of Resolution No. 11-2023 – Resolution and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure – 922 W. Wall – Hearing on October 17, 2023 – T. Russell
  8. Consideration of MOU – School Resources Officer Program – City of Fort Scott and Unified School District 234 – 2023-24 – J. Pickert
  9. Consideration of Relocation and Reimbursement Agreement – Evergy’s Fort Scott Infantry Substation Project – J. Dickman
  10. Consideration of Old Fort Boulevard/Skubitz Plaza Maintenance and Beautification Project – M. Wells
  11. Tourism Grant Guidelines – A program established to enhance and strengthen the positive economic impact of the tourism industry in our community – M. Wells

 

  1. Reports and Comments:
  2. City Manager Comments:
  3. Engineering Comments:
  4. Commissioners Comments:

 

  1. VanHoecke –

 

  1. Harrington –

 

  1. Woellhof –

 

  1. Guns –

 

  1. Wells –

 

 

  1. City Attorney Comments:

 

  1.  Executive Session:

 

XII.     Adjournment:

Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of The Fort Scott City Commission from August 15

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 Unapproved minutes

Minutes of August 15, 2023                                        Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held August 15, 2023 at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.

 

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners T. Van Hoecke, K. Harrington, M. Guns (via telephone) were present with Mayor M. Wells. E. Woellhof was absent.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INVOCATION:  M. Wells, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE:  Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Pete Earles/Earles Engineering, B. Hart (via telephone). Jason Pickert/Chief of Police, Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director, Tracy Dancer, Josh Jones, Garth Herrmann/Gillmore and Bell, Brett Shogren/Stifel,

 

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the agenda as submitted. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE AGENDA AS SUBMITTED.

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

 

  1. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 25, 2023
  2. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1341-A — $1,627,351.54
  3. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – $41,723.74 Invoice #16731 – 2022 Sanitary Sewer Inspection – $12,538.74

Peter W. Earles – 10.00hrs/$200.00 – $2,000.00, Shane Redfern – 48.50hrs/$48.50 – $6,741.50, Jason Dickman – 18.00hrs/$147.50 – $2,655.00, Amanda Simpson – 6.00hrs/$48.50 – $291.00, Mileage – 1,309.6 miles/0.65 – $851.24.

Invoice #16727 – South Horton St. & West 6th St.  –  $22,485.00

Preliminary Design (100%) – $6,210.00, Final Design (35%) – $16,275.00

Invoice #16726 – 21-303A – WWTP – System Designs – $6,700.00

Phase III – $3,500.00, Phase II – $3,200.00.

  1. Request to Pay – Invoice #08072301-EPEC-WWTP Aeration $206,654.50 – Phase II Aeration Upgrade (Total: $826,618.00), 25% of Total due – $206,654.50.
  2. Request to Pay – Bourbon County – I.T. Services 2023 – $25,500.00

Shane Walker – $12,000.00, Jimmy Kemmerer $13,500.00

  1. July Financials

 

 

 

  1. Matkin agreed to reach out to other wireless carriers after M. Wells asked about the franchise fees in the Consent Agenda.

 

  1. Guns moved to approve the Consent Agenda. T. VanHoecke seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA.

 

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:  None

 

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 

  1. Consideration of bids for investment CDs from WWTP funds –
  2. VanHoecke moved to approve the proposed CD investments of (1) million dollars for a (3) month CD yielding 4.77% and a (2) million dollar investment for (6) months at 4.88%.

 

  1. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE PROPOSED CD INVESTMENTS OF (1) MILLION DOLLARS FOR A (3) MONTH CD YIELDING 4.77% AND A (2) MILLION DOLLAR INVESTMENT FOR (6) MONTHS AT 4.88%.

 

  1. Consideration to approve purchase of split case pump and impellor for the Water Production Plant for additional amount of an additional $18.380.55.

 

  1. Harrington moved to approve the purchase of the impellor pump rebuild for $18,380.55. T. VanHoecke seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED the purchase of the impellor pump rebuild for $18,380.55.

 

  1. Consideration to approve Memo of Understanding (MOU) to join the Bourbon County Health in All Policies Task Force and select a City representative – Tabled 7/25/23 and 8/1/23 –

 

  1. Guns moved to approve the original MOU as it was written for the Bourbon County Health in All Policies Task Force. Motion died for lack of second.

 

NO ACTION WAS TAKEN.

 

  1. Consideration to adopt a new policy for City Commission Agenda deadlines.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to adopt a new policy for the City Commission Agenda deadlines that require all items to be on the upcoming agenda to be submitted to the City Clerk by the end of business Monday, one week prior to the upcoming meeting. The completed agenda is then to be distributed and posted no later than Wednesday. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADOPT A NEW POLICY FOR THE CITY COMMISSION AGENDA DEADLINES THAT REQUIRE ALL ITEMS TO BE ON THE UPCOMING AGENDA BE SUBMITTED TO THE CITY CLERK BY THE END OF BUSINESS MONDAY ONE WEEK PRIOR TO THE UPCOMING MEETING. THE COMPLETED AGENDA IS THEN TO BE DISTRIBUTED AND POSTED NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY.

 

  1. Consideration to pay Diehl, Banwart, Bolton $18,150.00 (approved on 7/25/2023) for the Certified Audit of Records and Preparation of Audit Report for the year ending 12/31/22. Invoice #161402 was sent and indicates an additional $4,975.00 for the Single Audit of Federal Funds. Total amount due $23,125.00 requiring a new motion.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve to pay Diehl, Banwart, Bolton for the amount of $23,125.00. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO PAY DIEHL, BANWART, BOLTON FOR THE AMOUNT OF $23,125.00.

 

  1. Approval to go out for bid for KDOT Sub-Area Road Extension & US-69 at 20th Street Repair Project (Project File No. 22-32).

 

  1. Guns moved to approve to go out for bid for the KDOT Sub-Area Road Extension & US-69 at 20th Street Repair Project. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO GO OUT FOR BID FOR THE KDOT SUB-AREA ROAD EXTENSION & US-69 AT 20TH STREET REPAIR PROJECT.

 

  1. Wells moved to go out for bids on the South Industrial Park Waterline Extension Project. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO GO OUT FOR BIDS ON THE SOUTH INDUSTRIAL PARK WATERLINE EXTENSION PROJECT.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

 

  1. Consideration of campsite improvements at Lake Fort Scott – B. Matkin was directed by the Commission to get cost estimates for items that would be needed for improvements of the primitive camping sites at this meeting.

 

NO ACTION TAKEN

 

  1. Consideration of 14-day Camping Regulation at Gunn Park (Ordinance No. 3606) and corresponding Municipal Codes –  Directed B. Matkin

 

NO ACTION TAKEN

 

  1. Consideration of Gunn Park Shelter House price increases –
  2. VanHoecke moved to approve the proposed price increases on the Shelter Houses at Gunn Park and amend Ordinance No. 3607 to reflect the changes.
  3. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE PROPOSED PRICE INCREASES ON THE SHELTER HOUSES AT GUNN PARK AND AMEND ORDINANCE No. 3607 TO REFLECT THE CHANGES.

 

  1. Consideration of changes to the City’s Purchasing Policy – B. Matkin was directed to redefine the day-to-day operation supplies, two signatures required and consideration for buying local is the priority. He will return with the corrected version at the next meeting.

 

NO ACTION TAKEN

 

  1. Consideration to approve the sale of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023 to the USDA.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to adopt bond Ordinance No. 3752. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADOPT BOND ORDINANCE NO. 3752.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to adopt bond Resolution No. 10-2023. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADOPT BOND RESOLUTION NO. 10-2023.

 

REPORTS AND COMMENTS:

 

City Manager:  B. Matkin

  1. Cape Seal Update – meeting next month with Harbour Construction.
  2. Vandalism at Gunn Park playgrounds. Gordon Parks sign stolen, checking security cameras in park.
  3. Citizen building a lake on their land behind the Woodland Hills Golf Course. He would like to purchase 2-acres from the City or accept a donation from the City of the land in exchange for the use of water in the future for watering the course. The homeowner would like to come to a Commission Meeting to address the Commission and answer questions.
  4. Community Development Director position is posted. Eleven (11) applications have been received. Interviews are in progress.

 

City Engineer:  Pete Earles/Earles Engineering & Inspection

  1. Davis Lift Station is in the process of design, needs survey for the force main and easement issues to work out.
  2. J. Dickman will be back at the next meeting. B. Matkin stated that Evergy would like a preconstruction meeting when he returns.

 

City Attorney:  B. Farmer

No comment.

 

COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS:

 

  1. Guns:
  2. Would like to suggest a Work Session in the near future to review contracts the City has with other entities such as Dispatch, REDI, etc. to ensure equitable exchange.
  3. The new school year starts Friday. She wishes all students and teachers a successful year ahead.

 

  1. Harrington:
  2. Good luck with Back to School this week.
  3. Football Jamboree Saturday
  4. Be sure to check out USD234 Events

 

  1. VanHoecke:
  2. Back to School Safety Awareness
  3. Possibility of hour adjustments with back to school. B. Matkin will meet with the Committee.
  4. Cooper Street is open, City crews saved over $400,000.00 by doing it themselves. The City Manager creates quality operators and gets things done in the City and people appreciate it all.
  5. Asks that citizens use the MyFortScott App to report issues or contact the City Manager for safety issues they see. For safety’s sake, stay out of City job sites. Report them instead.  The City Attorney stated that any citizen that is on a City job/work site is trespassing and can be removed from the site. It is for safety and liability reasons that this request is being made.

 

  1. Wells:
  2. Requested a preconstruction meeting for Cape Seal project.
  3. One, three-, five-, seven- and ten-year capital improvements for streets are being discussed, including the Streets Advisory board for input.
  4. Looking for master plans for sewer and water lines. A map was previously requested and received from PEC. If we cannot find, can we work with Earles to create new documents? Would like to have a clear infrastructure plan other than fixing leaks and start working on proactive projects. Would like to work with Earles to update if they are found.
  5. Echo amazing job the streets crew has done over the year and goes back to the leadership, very proud of current individuals on the crew.
  6. Bus safety is not a suggestion; it is the law. Please be careful and obey the laws.

 

  1. Matkin stated that 10th Street will be open by Friday. He is very proud of all the crews (streets, water, golf course, etc.) and all that they do because he pushes them hard. They appreciate that people notice their work.

 

NEXT MEETING:  Tuesday, September 19, 2023 – 6:00PM at City Hall.

 

WORK SESSION: Review of Contracts held by the City:  Tuesday, September 19, 2023 – 5:00PM at City Hall preceding the Regular Commission Meeting.

 

ADJOURNMENT:

  1. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:45PM. K. Harrington seconded. All present voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:45PM.

 

Respectfully submitted for approval,

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Government, Kansas

Health Champion Award Nominees Are Sought

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Governor’s Council on Wellness Opens Nominations for the 2024 Health Champion Award

TOPEKA – Each year, the Governor’s Council on Wellness (previously the Governor’s Council on Fitness) recognizes one exceptional individual and one remarkable organization in Kansas who have shown outstanding dedication to promoting health, fitness and wellness in our communities.

Nominees for the 2024 Health Champion Award can come from diverse backgrounds – from health care professionals and educators to community leaders and volunteers. The award highlights outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly impacted health awareness, disease prevention and overall well-being within our state.

“We are excited to review this year’s nominations and see all the great work being done throughout our state,” said Jody Hoener, GCOW Awards Committee Chair. “We encourage everyone to nominate the Health Champions in their communities.”

The nomination process is simple and can be completed online. The form requires a brief description of the nominee’s accomplishments and how they have positively influenced their community’s health. It also asks some basic questions about the nominee’s contact information so they can be notified if they receive the award.

The deadline to submit the nomination form is October 31, 2023. The winners will be notified via email, and awards will be announced via a press release in late November.

The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at the Community Health Promotion Summit that will be held in Wichita at the WSU Woolsey Center.

To access the nomination form, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CT77RYV.

Bourbon County, Government

Road Improvements Start Today on 215th Street, Jayhawk Road

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A county road in Bourbon County.

Bourbon County Public Works will be performing chip and seal operations on various roads in Bourbon County.  The areas include 215th Street from US 54 Highway to the Linn County line, along with Jayhawk Road from the Railroad Tracks to 245th Street.

 

Construction will begin Wednesday, August 30, 2023, and will continue through the month of September.  One lane of traffic will remain open at all times; however, motorists may encounter lane restrictions, reduced speeds, and flagging operations throughout the work zones.  Please follow all traffic control devices when traveling through the work zones.

For additional information, call 620-223-3800 ext. 193

Submitted by

Becky Robertson
Bourbon County Public Works
Business, Fort Scott, Government, Kansas

1.66 Percent Increase Justified to Provide Electricity to Evergy Central Customers. 

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Kansas Corporation Commission Utilities Staff responds to
Evergy’s rate increase proposal in testimony filed this afternoon

TOPEKA – Kansas Corporation Commission Staff has weighed in on Evergy’s request for a rate increase in both of its’ Kansas service areas. In testimony filed with the Commission this afternoon, Staff’s detailed financial audit of the company’s income and expenses determined that an increase of 1.66 percent or $34,706,527 was all that could be justified at this time to provide service to Evergy Central customers.  Staff’s position is in contrast to Evergy’s request for a net revenue increase of $204,152,629 or 9.77 percent.

KCC Staff’s detailed financial audit of Evergy Kansas Metro’s income and expenses determined that a 7.32 percent rate decrease totaling $53,194,189 is appropriate.  This is in contrast to Evergy’s proposed rate increase of 1.95 percent or $14,152,521.

While an important part in the process, these results are far from final at this stage.  Today is the due date for direct testimony to be filed by KCC Staff and all other intervenors in the rate case. The next steps in the process include cross answering testimony, rebuttal testimony from Evergy, a settlement conference to determine if the parties can agree on a resolution to submit for Commission approval, followed by either a settlement hearing or evidentiary hearing before the Commission.  KCC Commissioners will issue a final order in the docket in late December or early January.

Evergy Kansas Central serves 736,000 customers in Topeka, Lawrence, Olathe, Leavenworth, Atchison, Manhattan, Salina, Hutchinson, Emporia, Parsons, Wichita, Arkansas City, El Dorado, Newton, Fort Scott, Pittsburg and Independence, among other towns and rural areas. Evergy Kansas Metro serves approximately 273,000 customers in Lenexa, Overland Park and other communities near the Kansas City metro area.

Testimony filed today is available on the KCC’s website, along with other documents in the rate case.

The Commission is accepting public comments regarding the rate increase request through 5 p.m., September 29, 2023, on its website, by mail to the Commission’s Office at 1500 SW Arrowhead Rd, Topeka, KS 66604-4027 or by calling the KCC’s Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at 785-271-3140 or 800-662-0027.

Area News, Government, Kansas

Mixed-use Development Project Begins in Johnson County

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Governor Kelly Breaks Ground on $2B Redevelopment in Overland Park


OVERLAND PARK – Governor Laura Kelly joined Curtin Property Company, Johnson County government officials, and business leaders today to celebrate the redevelopment of Brookridge at 103rd Street and Antioch Road in Overland Park. The $2 billion project is one of Kansas’ largest and most ambitious mixed-use developments. In addition to the groundbreaking, there was an unveiling of the property’s new name – Meridian.

“Economic development projects like Meridian are key to making Kansas a place where more young people want to put down roots and build their futures,” Governor Kelly said. “I want to thank our local, private sector, and nonprofit partners who all worked hand-in-hand with my administration to unlock more opportunities for Kansans.”

The first development phase includes infrastructure work, two mixed-use residential/retail buildings, a grocery store, retail and restaurants, and usable green space.

The project is the recipient of $10 million in grant funding from the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Building a Stronger Economy program. In addition, an $8 million grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Economic Development Program was awarded to prepare roads, sewer drainage, and other infrastructure. Completion of the infrastructure and utility work is expected in fall 2024.

“The opportunity to celebrate breaking ground and unveiling our vision for Meridian marks a special milestone in the evolution of this project,” said Chris Curtin, founder of Curtin Property Company. “Our team is proud to be bringing this innovative mixed-use development to Johnson County and looks forward to being a vibrant part of the region.”

The development will feature 4.8 million square feet of office capacity, high-quality urban living spaces with 2,000 apartments, two hotels, and extensive retail, restaurant, and entertainment venues. The 200-acre property will focus on health and wellness, including more than 100 acres of usable green space featuring fountains, recreational golf, fitness facilities, walking paths, connections to hiking and biking trails, and forested and open lawns.

“Current residents are attracted to Overland Park because of the sense of community our neighborhoods provide. Future residents will be attracted for the same reason,” said Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog. “I look forward to experiencing that community feeling at Meridian, a place to live, work, and play – all just a walk away from one another. I’m happy to be with the Meridian team this week to celebrate the beginning of this type of development and the economic impact it will bring to Overland Park and the surrounding neighborhoods.”

Meridian is anticipated to accommodate more than 16,000 jobs in the office and retail spaces.

Photos from the event for media use can be found below.

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