Category Archives: Government

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Horses in Kansas

MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health has received notification of multiple confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in horses across the state over the past few weeks. Confirmed cases have been reported in Barber, Butler, Douglas and Pratt counties.

WNV is a preventable disease, with annual vaccinations that have proven highly effective. All of the confirmed cases of WNV in Kansas were in unvaccinated horses or horses with an unknown vaccination history so were assumed to be unvaccinated. All horse owners should consult with their local veterinarians and make a vaccination plan for their horses.

WNV is a virus that can infect humans, horses, birds and other species. Horses infected with WNV can have symptoms that range from depression, loss of appetite and fever to severe neurologic signs such as incoordination, weakness, inability to rise, and hypersensitivity to touch or sound. WNV can be fatal in horses. If you see symptoms of WNV in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The virus is carried and transmitted by mosquitoes; it is not directly contagious from horse to horse or from horse to human. WNV is a reportable disease in Kansas, which means veterinarians are required by law to report any confirmed cases to the State Veterinarian.

For more information about West Nile virus or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA Division of Animal Health website at agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalDiseases.

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Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Plan Announced

Kansas Submits Five-Year, $451M Action Plan to Expand High-Speed Internet

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the Kansas Office of Broadband Development has submitted the state’s comprehensive Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Five-Year Action Plan (FYAP) to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The required action plan details how universal connection will happen in Kansas, and the planned use of the $451 million NTIA has allocated to the state.

The plan underscores Governor Kelly’s commitment to ensuring every Kansan has access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet and the skills necessary to thrive in a digitally-driven society.

“Access to reliable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity for education, health care, economic growth, and overall quality of life,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This plan moves us toward achieving universal broadband availability in Kansas, ensuring everyone from business owners to students can succeed in today’s digital age.”

Submitting the FYAP is a crucial step in securing federal funding for the state’s broadband initiatives. The plan outlines the path to making high-speed internet available to all Kansans, with a focus on unserved and underserved areas.

The BEAD FYAP consists of a comprehensive strategy that includes the Kansas Office of Broadband Development’s (KOBD) vision to provide universal access to quality broadband, with specific goals and objectives aimed at broadband coverage, adoption rates, and economic growth. This plan also identifies existing programs and assets to reduce overlap and to leverage resources.

“The BEAD FYAP outlines a strategic approach to leverage existing programs, partnerships, and resources toward the goal of universal broadband access,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By combining public and private efforts, we can maximize the impact of our investments and create a robust broadband infrastructure that supports economic growth and innovation for decades to come.”

The plan identifies challenges such as supply chain constraints, labor shortages, digital skill gaps, and how to overcome these obstacles. Presenting a projected timeline, costs and strategies to close gaps in broadband service and ways to ensure fair digital access, the FYAP aligns with state agencies and partners, including NTIA, the federal funding agency.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to draft a comprehensive plan that aligns with the NTIA’s guidelines while addressing our state’s unique challenges and opportunities,” KOBD Director Jade Piros de Carvalho said. “This plan is a roadmap to providing high-speed connectivity to areas that have historically been left behind and bringing affordable broadband access to every corner of Kansas.”

The plan’s alignment with NTIA guidelines, its inclusive approach, and its strategies to address challenges reflect the state’s commitment to empowering Kansans with essential connectivity.

For more information about the Five-Year Action Plan, click here.

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Amended Bo Co Commission Agenda for August 24

 

 

Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

August 24, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute followed by Prayer
  • Budget Discussion
  1. Commission Comments
  2. Adjourn Meeting

 

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Amended Agenda for the Bo Co Commission Meeting Today at 5:30 p.m.

 

 

 

Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

August 24, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute followed by Prayer
  • Budget Discussion
  1. Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(4)
  2. Commission Comments
  3. Adjourn Meeting

 

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

FS Seeks Volunteers For Advisory Boards

The City of Fort Scott is currently seeking to fill vacancies on the following advisory boards:

 

1 position for the Land Bank Board of Trustees

2 positions for the Streets Advisory Board

1 position for the Parks Advisory Board

The functions of the Fort Scott Advisory Board Committees are to provide suggestions to the City Manager and City Commission regarding the specific areas as indicated: Land Bank, Streets and Parks within the City of Fort Scott.

All boards and commissions of Fort Scott serve on a volunteer basis and are not compensated.

If you have a desire to serve on this board, please submit a Letter of Interest to the City Clerk, Lisa Lewis, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701 or [email protected]. The names and letters will be submitted for consideration first to the advisory board and then to the City Commission.

 

Distributing Kansas Grown and Processed Foods to Underserved Communities

John Root of Root’s River Valley Produce in Silver Lake unloads his produce at Harvesters in Topeka as part of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program.

Kansas Receives Additional Funding for Local Food Purchase Assistance Program

MANHATTAN, Kansas — Kansas Department of Agriculture officials joined staff from Harvesters – The Community Food Network in Topeka on Wednesday morning to welcome deliveries of fresh produce purchased under the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program.

KDA has been awarded an additional $2,500,000 to further the state’s work under the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service’s Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) Cooperative Agreement Program. The additional funds will be used to purchase and distribute Kansas grown and processed foods to underserved communities and families across Kansas for an additional year.

“We have been proud of the success of the LFPA Program and are pleased to be able to extend it for another growing season,” said Kansas Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Kelsey Olson, who was present at Harvesters during the food deliveries on Wednesday. “Kansas-grown food is reaching communities across the state, which benefits not only those communities but also the farmers and producers.”

The purpose of the LFPA Program is to maintain and improve food and agricultural supply chain resiliency. In July 2022, KDA initially received $2,500,000 and partnered with Harvesters along with the Kansas Food Bank and Second Harvest Community Food Bank to purchase locally grown and processed produce, dairy, meat, and honey and distribute it to those in urban and rural communities facing food insecurity.

“LFPA has been a wonderful opportunity for our food banks to work with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and to partner with local producers around the state,” said Stephen Davis, President & CEO of Harvesters – The Community Food Network. “And our neighbors in need are really grateful for this fresh, nutritious Kansas-grown food to help feed their families.”

So far in 2023, the food banks have purchased local food from over 20 Kansas producers and have distributed nearly 800,000 pounds of Kansas-grown produce throughout the state in the first growing season of the program. According to Brian Walker, President & CEO of the Kansas Food Bank, local food purchased through the LFPA Program has already been distributed to 75 of the 85 counties the Kansas Food Bank serves. “These are mostly rural counties where fresh produce is limited so it’s been great for our communities.”

“We are grateful for the USDA and the Kansas Department of Agriculture for their support of this program that will help improve food security in Kansas on many levels,” said Chad Higdon, CEO of Second Harvest Community Food Bank.

For more information, please visit agriculture.ks.gov/LFPA or contact KDA grants coordinator Brittney Grother at [email protected] or 785-564-6797.

The vision of the Kansas Department of Agriculture is to provide an ideal environment for long-term, sustainable agricultural prosperity and statewide economic growth. To achieve this vision, the agency advocates for sectors at all levels and provides industry outreach.

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Bourbon County In KS Drought Emergency

 

Governor Updates Declaration of Drought Emergency, Warnings and Watches for Kansas Counties

The Governor’s Drought Response Team examines conditions; and recommends updates to the Governor

 

Governor Laura Kelly has approved updated drought declarations for Kansas counties with Executive Order #23-04.

“Kansans have been resilient in the face of drought this past year,” said Governor Kelly. “Even with some regions receiving significant rainfall, I strongly encourage all Kansans to continue to be mindful of ways we can conserve water and minimize fire hazards.”

The drought declaration placed 55 counties into an emergency status, 18 counties in a warning status and 32 into a watch status. This action was recommended by Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office and Chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. While most of western Kansas have seen relief from drought in the last two months, central and southeast Kansas have continued to be dry, with nearly 30 percent of Kansas currently in extreme or exceptional drought.

“We are still seeing the effects of the drought conditions from the past year. With drought conditions persisting throughout parts of the state, we are continuing to see stressed surface and ground water supplies, negative effects on crop production and elevated wildfire risk,” said Owen. “The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to monitor the drought conditions across Kansas and make recommendations to Governor Kelly as conditions change.”

Through an interagency agreement between the Kansas Water Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Kansas Division of Emergency Management, counties in emergency stage are eligible for emergency use of water from certain state fishing lakes. These counties also become eligible for water in some federal reservoirs.

Individuals and communities need to contact the Kansas Water Office for a water supply request prior to any withdrawals from lakes. These requests will in turn be referred to the appropriate office to obtain necessary permits to withdraw requested water.

 

This Executive Order shall remain in effect for those counties identified until rescinded by Executive Order ending the declaration or revising the drought stage status of the affected counties.

 

Effective immediately, Executive Order #23-04:

 

  • Declares a Drought Emergency, Warning or Watch for the counties as identified below;
  • Authorizes and directs all agencies under the jurisdiction of the Governor to implement the appropriate watch, warning or emergency level drought response actions assigned in the Operations Plan of the Governor’s Drought Response Team.

 

The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the negative drought-induced effects on Kansans.

For more detailed information about current conditions, visit the Climate and Drought webpage on the Kansas Water Office website at kwo.ks.gov.

County Drought Stage Declarations:

Drought Emergency: Allen, Anderson, Barton, Bourbon, Butler, Chase, Chautauqua, Cloud, Coffey, Cowley, Crawford, Dickinson, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Ellsworth, Finney, Ford, Gove, Graham, Greenwood, Harvey, Hodgeman, Jewell, Kiowa, Lane, Lincoln, Lyon, Marion, McPherson, Mitchell, Montgomery, Morris, Neosho, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Phillips, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sedgwick, Smith, Stafford, Sumner, Trego, Wilson, Woodson.

 

Drought Warning: Cherokee, Clay, Decatur, Douglas, Franklin, Geary, Johnson, Kingman, Labette, Linn, Miami, Osage, Pottawatomie, Riley, Shawnee, Sheridan, Wabaunsee, Washington.

 

Drought Watch: Atchison, Barber, Brown, Cheyenne, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Grant, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Harper, Haskell, Jackson, Jefferson, Kearny, Leavenworth, Logan, Marshall, Meade, Morton, Nemaha, Rawlins, Scott, Seward, Sherman, Stanton, Stevens, Thomas, Wallace, Wichita, Wyandotte.

 

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KDOT accepting applications for Innovative Technology Program

The Kansas Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the fall 2023 round of the agency’s Innovative Technology Program.

The Innovative Technology Program provides financial assistance to governmental and non-governmental organizations for innovative transportation-related projects that promote safety, improve access or mobility and implement new transportation technology.

“Innovative technology” is broadly defined as any technology that does not currently exist in the local community of the project. This allows local communities to determine what projects to submit based on their specific needs.

All transportation system projects are eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, aviation, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), bicycle/pedestrian, public transit, software and technology infrastructure. Candidate projects should include investments that provide transportation benefits and are not eligible for other KDOT programs. This round of grant funding has an overall budget of $2 million, with a maximum awarded amount of $1 million per project.

A few past approved program projects include: A pedestrian warning system with radar speed signs in the city of Little River; traffic signal upgrades allowing for vehicle-to-infrastructure communication on Greenwich Road in the city of Wichita; and a performance measurement system for the Mid-America Regional Council, in coordination with Operation Green Light.

A project concept must be submitted and approved by KDOT before an application is provided to the applicant. The deadline to submit project concepts for consideration this program year is Nov. 17 and the application deadline is Nov. 30. A facts sheet is available on the program at https://www.ksdot.gov/Assets/wwwksdotorg/bureaus/divInnovTech/Innovative_Technology_FactSheet.pdf. The project concept submission form is available at https://forms.microsoft.com/g/FThTTFKQ5s. Both documents are also on KDOT’s homepage.

Please contact Matt Stormer, [email protected], with any questions.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter


Visiting with Kansas Cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy
This week I enjoyed getting to visit with Kansas cadets at the United States Air Force Academy. One of my most meaningful responsibilities as a U.S. Senator is nominating young Kansans to attend our nation’s service academies, and to support them in accomplishing their desires to serve their country. These men and women are some of Kansas’ best and brightest. Having Kansans at our service academies is just one of the many ways our state is playing a pivotal role in fortifying our nation’s current and future defense.

I want to thank Cadet Malachi Feil from Wichita, Cadet Robert Wright from Wichita, Cadet Lauren Steinlage from Olathe, Cadet Andrew Emerson from Topeka, Cadet Nelson Loosli from Dodge City, Cadet Chase Dwonrnicki from Wichita, Cadet Michaela Birkholz, Cadet Tyler Simms from Olathe, Cadet Zachary Bollinger from Hesston, and Cadet Mason Vasta from Overland Park for joining me at lunch.

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Update on Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
On Thursday, I spoke with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Director, Martha Williams, to discuss concerns about her agency’s Request to Secure Water with the Kansas Depart of Agriculture-Division of Water Resources related to senior water rights of the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in south-central Kansas. I reiterated concerns from Kansans on the potential uncertainty and unpredictability for farmers and ranchers, which could devastate rural Kansas communities and the agricultural economy. I re-emphasized and asked Director Williams to meet with and continue working with local stakeholders and state leaders to find a solution that works for everyone.

Open House at Colmery O’Neil VA Medical Center
On Friday morning, I spoke at the ribbon cutting for the expansion of Colmery-O’Neil VA Emergency Department, This is the completion of Phase Two of the expansion, providing six additional beds for a total of eleven beds available for patient care. The enhancements to the facility include single occupancy rooms for enhanced privacy as well as two additional trauma bays and two behavioral health rooms, providing a secure environment for veterans experiencing a mental health crisis. An additional service is the participation in the VA National Telestroke Program (NTSP) which serves veterans with acute stroke symptoms at VA emergency departments, urgent care centers and hospitals in order is provide acute stroke expertise to front-line staff via videoconference with a telestroke neurologist.

Thank you to Director Rudy Klopfer, Emergency Department Chief Dr. Stephanie Davis and everyone in the Eastern Kansas VA Health System, as well as Bill Turner, Director of the Kansas Commission of Veterans Affairs, for your commitment to serving our veterans.

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Captain Richard Federico, Nominee for 10th Circuit Court of Appeals
While in Topeka, I met with Captain Richard Federico to discuss his nomination to serve on the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, which has jurisdiction over Kansas. I appreciated the opportunity to ask him more about his career and how he views the role of a judge. I look forward to hearing his testimony at his confirmation hearing.

Attending Kansas Agriculture Summit Reception
On Wednesday, I attended the 2023 Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth reception in Manhattan. I enjoyed speaking with Kansans on the upcoming farm bill, hunger and water issues and new growth opportunities for the agricultural industry. It’s important that I hear from producers and industry professionals to support our Kansas farmers and ranchers.
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K-State’s School of Veterinary Medicine
On Saturday, I was pleased to speak with Kansas State President Richard Linton and Senior Vice President Marshall Stewart in Manhattan. During our meeting, we discussed the current successes and future of K-State’s School of Veterinary Medicine. The Vet School is highly regarded within the animal science industry, and has remained at the forefront of our state’s efforts to increase competitiveness in the agriculture industry.

I thank President Linton and Vice President Stewart for their dedication to bringing additional research, educational and economic opportunities to the state of Kansas and look forward to working with them on expansions and improvements to the Vet School.

Ohlde Seed Day
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to speak with Kansas farmers at Ohlde Seed Field Day in Palmer. I provided an update on the 2023 Farm Bill and the priorities that must be included, such as crop insurance, farm conservation programs and risk management products. Ohlde Seed Farms has been producing seed in Palmer for 75 years and supplied resources for farmers across the nation. I was able to learn about the latest and best agricultural technology alongside Kansans who are working hard to keep our state a top agriculture producer.

It is vital to our state and nation that we support our Kansas farmers and ranchers who are producing the high-quality food and fiber that clothe and feed the world.

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Meeting with Compass Minerals
I met with CEO Kevin Crutchfield on Friday in Overland Park at the Compass Minerals office. The organization provides various minerals that are necessary for agriculture and transportation. In the 30 years since its founding, Compass Minerals has created thousands of U.S. jobs and is the largest producer of salt in North America. Thank you to Kevin for welcoming me to the office headquarters.

Speaking with Lieutenant General Beagle 
This weekend, I spoke with Lieutenant General Milford Beagle Jr., the Commanding General, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center and Fort Leavenworth. Fort Leavenworth is renowned for its high-caliber training programs, spearheaded by the Combined Arms Center (CAC) and the Command and General Staff College. Both the CAC and the Command and General Staff College are pivotal within the Army. The CAC shapes Army doctrine, defining how our troops train and engage in combat. The Command and General Staff College serves as a crucible for future leaders, extending its training not only to Army officers but also to personnel from sister services and partner nations. These institutions play a crucial role in cultivating the next generation of our military thereby having a direct impact on our national security. Fort Leavenworth has indispensable contributions in the training of our military force and I am committed to ensuring our military education and training centers have the essential resources needed for achieving excellence.

Thank you to Lieutenant General Beagle for his commitment and leadership at Fort Leavenworth and his service to our Nation. I look forward to witnessing the continued excellence emanating from the Combined Arms Center, Command and General Staff College, and all of our other great organizations found at Fort Leavenworth.

KIOGA Chairmen’s Reception in Wichita
On Sunday evening, I attended the Kansas Oil and Gas Association Chairmen’s Reception in Wichita. I appreciated speaking with Kansans about advocating for independent oil and gas producers. It is important to promote Kansas gas and oil industries on the local, state and federal levels to encourage American energy development. KIOGA identifies public policies and deciphers regulations that are fundamental to their member’s success and crucial for the betterment of Kansas.

Traveling across Kansas
I love being in Kansas. This time of year, a cool place can be hard to find.

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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.

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

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

Very truly yours,

Jerry

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

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

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

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Bo Co Commission Budget Session is August 24

 

 

Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

 

August 24, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

 

 

A budget work session will be held at 5:30 p.m.

 

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Bo Co Commission Minutes of August 14

August 14, 2023                                                                                                                   Monday, 5:30 p.m.

 

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present.

 

Jason Silvers, Patty Ropp, Michael Hoyt, Clint Walker, and Rachel Walker were present for some or all of the meeting.

 

Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute followed by a prayer led by Nelson Blythe.

 

Clifton Beth made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes approval of minutes from 8/7/23, approval of payroll totaling $214,430.95, and approval of accounts payable totaling $394,953.25. Nelson Blythe seconded the motion and all approved.

 

There were no public comments.

 

Susan Walker requested a 10-minute executive session for non-elected personnel. Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, Susan Walker, Eric Bailey, and Justin Meeks and will return at 5:41. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 5:41 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Justin Meeks, County Counselor, explained changes to the drug and alcohol testing program. Justin stated he followed up on last week’s discussion and reached out to Kansas Association of Counties, KWORCC, and KCAMP to find best practices on the process of drug and alcohol testing. Justin said he found out from KAC that elected officials don’t have to follow the policy and felt we needed to update our policy to follow the state and DOT guidelines for CDL drivers versus non-CDL drivers. Our handbook covers non-elected personnel’s personnel and should be followed by Road & Bridge and the Appraiser’s office and those employed by a non-elected official. Clifton questioned why we would have a handbook if they don’t have to follow it. Jim clarified that any county employee who has an accident must be tested. Jim asked if we update our handbook would elected officials have to tell us what pages they opt in and out of? Justin stated there are EOC and federal guidelines that would have to be followed by elected officials. Jim questioned if the commission set vacation for elected official’s employees. Justin stated if the elected officials choose not to follow our handbook and policies, they can hire their own payroll and HR personnel and stated the commissioners handle the budgets. Jim asked for Justin’s recommendation. Justin said to get best practices and update the handbook. Clifton asked for clarification on if elected officials choose to not follow the handbook, they have to hire their own payroll and HR department. Justin stated the ultimate winner and loser is the taxpayer and he hopes the department heads, Commissioners, and elected officials will work to save the taxpayer’s money. Nelson asked why we would care if they don’t follow our handbook policy. Justin replied there are consequence for not following the handbook if there are any federal violations. Nelson replied that’s on the elected official. Jim asked what the liability is if an elected official doesn’t follow our handbook and something goes wrong. Justin said we have the same insurance so hypothetically rates could go up or the company could choose to drop coverage. Clifton said his opinion on drug and alcohol testing is we should test CDL employees. Clifton made a motion to random test those with CDL’s that work for Bourbon County. Justin said the motion should include post-accident testing. Clifton made a motion to random test employees with CDL’s and all employees post-accident. Jim asked about pre-employment testing for those with CDL’s. Justin said you could make that policy for Public Works. Jim stated Clifton’s motion died for lack of a second. Jim made a motion to change the drug and alcohol testing policy to test random CDL employees, pre-employment testing if they have a CDL, and post-accident testing for all employees. Nelson seconded the motion and asked for discussion. Nelson stated it seems hasty to make a decision now and said now everybody will know if they don’t have a CDL they won’t have to get tested and wanted to check with other counties.  Jim said we still have to have a drug and alcohol testing policy for our insurance. Justin stated under Jim’s motion nobody under elected officials would be tested even if they wanted to follow policy. Justin said that testing CDL is a DOT guideline and that insurance wants all post-accident tested. Clifton questioned if the insurance wanted random testing. Justin said the insurance states random testing as a should and post-accident and CDL testing for DOT as shall. Nelson asked what the recourse would be if an employee is suspected of being under the influence. Justin said we can ask for a random test if we believe an employee is under the influence. The motion passed will all Commissioners approval. Justin asked if a director could handle an issue with an employee with the new policy and it was decided to go into executive session to discuss non-elected employees.

 

Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to allow an executive session before the department updates section. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Clifton made a motion to go into a 7-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, Susan Walker, Eric Bailey, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:12. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:12 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, stated they are working on asphalting on Kansas Road and hope to have it open by Friday. The crew will be asphalting Jayhawk Road from 69 Highway to the railroad tracks on Sunday, August 27 to avoid the traffic with schools and businesses. Eric said they plan to start on chip and seal at 215th and Zinc Road and head south. Last week Eric and a few members of the asphalt crew went to Joplin’s Special Road Department and they showed them how they do chip and seal and demonstrated the machine and distributor. Eric said they have three mowers out and are waiting for a gear box to come in from Canada to fix the fourth mower. Eric reported the area Nelson called him about has been mowed. Eric said if anybody has an area with an issue to please call or text him with an actual location not an anonymous picture online. Nelson had previously asked for dollar amounts for mowing intersections and Eric explained they used FEMA rates for the tractor and mower and labor and benefits rates for the employee operating to get to a total of $90.91 per hour to mow. It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to mow 150 yards in each direction at the intersection so that would be a total cost of $30,182 to mow the 664 intersections in Bourbon County. Nelson asked for the amount of savings from mowing all the road to just mowing intersections. Eric said the total to mow all roads would be $58,409.68 so the savings to just mow intersections would be $28,227.68. Nelson stated he thought it would be a bigger difference.

 

The Request for Qualifications for an overpass south of town was discussed. Jim explained that the RFQ is the first step before a grant could be applied for. Eric stated $40,000 is the max that the feasibility study could be per the RFQ. Nelson questioned what the company would do to complete the study. Eric stated they will log traffic counts, determine how to tie into roads, intersections, and businesses, and look at placement among other things. Jim said this will be a broad-spectrum study. Eric said he looks for community forums to happen as part of the study as well. Clifton questioned if an underpass was discussed as an option. Jim said it is a good idea that would save millions and suggested asking Schwab Eaton about it, but questioned what you would do with the trains while the underpass was built. Jim made a motion to let Eric Bailey work with Schwab Eaton to do a feasibility study for an overpass or underpass south of Fort Scott and for the study to not exceed $40,000. Clifton said he wouldn’t second because he wanted further discussion. The motion died due to a lack of a second. Clifton said he feels we need to do it and that it has a lot to with more than just safety and economic development and questioned if there was grant money out there for the study. Clifton stated it is budget time and we’re trying to make cuts and he doesn’t like to see this come from a mill levy fund. Jim said the study could be paid for from the sales tax fund. Nelson questioned if they could find someone to do the study for less than $40,000. Clifton stated a dollar amount should not have been put on the RFQ because in his opinion a company will charge as much as they can and feels if they can use money from economic development to do so just not from a mill levy fund. Jim suggested tabling the discussion and it was agreed to table the discussion.

 

Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, presented a renewal for a cereal malt beverage for KC Mart at 2191   Soldier Road for approval and the Chairman’s signature. Clifton made a motion to approve the permit and allow Chairman Harris to sign permit #208. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Susan Walker, Patty Love, and Jennifer Hawkins met last week to go over a form the auditors had sent asking about the county’s financial policies and procedures. Susan said there were a few items that needed addressed and changed as an organization moving forward. There have already been some changes that have taken place since Jennifer took office, and after the meeting others will be implemented in both the Clerk’s office and Treasurer’s office. Susan said the policies and procedures should be made as an organization and will help when people move out of office to serve as a guideline for new personnel coming in. Riley County’s financial policy was obtained so we are not starting from scratch creating a new policy and changes will be made to fit our organization. They asked for the Commissioners blessing to work together to create a financial policy. Nelson asked if it was to put a policy together and then have the Commissioners review and approve and Susan confirmed that is their intention. Jim said that was a great idea. One item the auditor’s asked for was a list of those authorized on our certificate on incumbency and those listed were: Clifton Beth, James Harris, Patty Love, Nelson Blythe, and Jennifer Hawkins. If anybody else was to do anything outside of agreements or handling of money they would have to be listed on the certificate. Susan said she feels there are other accounts and individuals that need to be added to the certificate. Susan said she can have Justin review the certificate. Another item that was brought up was the printing of names on the accounts payable checks and it was suggested to always have a live signature on the check whether that be the Chairman’s or the Clerk’s. Jim said the Treasurer and Clerk should be the live signatures.

 

Patty Love and Susan Walker discussed the CD’s the county currently has in local banks. The Commissioners have previously suggest moving CD’s to other institutions that offer the best interest rate. Patty said she had talked to Susan about putting $1,000,000 in a short-term, such as 90-day, CD and asked for bids. Patty handed out the bids received from local institutions. Patty said we have two $100,000 CD’s that are at a low interest rate and she is going to cash them in with the three-month penalty because the new interest rate will be worth it. Clifton said there was money that was soon to be rolled over about six months ago and asked at what rate were they rolled over. Nelson asked how much we currently have in CD’s now and Patty said we have $1,640,000. Nelson asked how much we have available to put into short term CD’s. Susan said it is hard to figure out cash-flow over the next three months and that they will have to figure all officials spending their full amount. After discussion it was determined to put $1,000,000 into short term CD’s not to exceed three months.

 

A short break was taken and normal session resumed at 6:46.

 

Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, Susan Walker, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:57. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:57 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, and Justin Meeks and will return at 7:08. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 7:08 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Jim said he went to the poverty session last Saturday at the middle school and that it was a very good program and he is interested and exited to see how the program helps folks in Bourbon County. Nelson made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:10. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.

 

 

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

___________________, Chairman

___________________, Commissioner

ATTEST:                                                                                                    ___________________, Commissioner

                                                         

Selena Alvarado, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk

8/21/2023          , Approved Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bo Co Commission Amended Agenda for August 21

Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

August 21, 2023 5:30 p.m.

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute followed by Prayer
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Minutes from 8/14/2023
  1. Public Comments
  2. Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  3. Resolution 14-23 Appointing an Emergency Manager
  • Appointment of Drywood Township Treasurer
  • Bourbon County Conservation District
  1. Commission Comments
  2. Adjourn Meeting

 

 

The budget work session has been moved to after the regularly scheduled commission meeting ends.

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.