Category Archives: Government

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Commission Minutes of August 1

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

Minutes of August 1, 2023                                        Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held July 25, 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, E. Woellhof, M. Guns (via telephone) were present with Mayor M. Wells. K. Harrington was absent.

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND INVOCATION:  E. Woellhof, 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, Ben Hart/Finance Director, (via telephone), Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering, J. Pickert/Police Chief, D. Bruner/Fire Chief, Rachel Carpenter, Michael Hoyt, Dyllon Olson, Tracy Dancer, and Mark McCoy.

 

APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:

  1. Wells moved to approve the agenda with the addition of Consideration to approve Fort Scott joining the Mayoral Alliance Against Hunger to be added as Item E to New Business. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE AGENDA WITH THE ADDITION OF CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE FORT SCOTT JOINING THE MAYORAL ALLIANCE AGAINST HUNGER TO BE ADDED AS ITEM E TO NEW BUSINESS

 

CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 25, 2023
  2. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1341-A — $213,912.62
  3. Request to Pay – Bennett, Inc. via Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Project No. 23-409 (22-306) – Contractor’s Application for Payment No. 3 – $553,602.60
  4. Approval of Drinking Establishment City License Renewal – Pizza Republic – 17 S. Main Street – Bret Holder
  5. Approval of Ordinance No. 3748 – Amending Chapter 10.04 of the Fort Scott Municipal Code to Incorporate Standard Traffic Ordinances for Kansas Cities – 2023 Edition
  6. Approval of Ordinance No. 3749 – Adding Section 10.05 Regulating Public Offenses Within the Corporate Limits of the City of Fort Scott, Kansas; Incorporating by Reference the Uniform Public Offense Code for Kansas Cities, 39th Edition, “With Certain Omissions, Changes, and Additions; Prescribing Additional Regulations; and Providing Certain Penalties.

 

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

 

APPROVED THE CONSENT AGENDA.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS:  None

 

OLD BUSINESS:

 

  1. Approval of the date of September 5, 2023, at 6:00PM for City of Fort Scott Budget Hearing – T. VanHoecke moved to approve the date of September 5, 2023, at 6:00PM for the City of Fort Scott Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing and Budget Hearing. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THE DATE OF SEPTEMBER 5, 2023, AT 6:00PM FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT REVENUE NEUTRAL RATE HEARING AND BUDGET HEARING.

 

  1. Consideration of MOU with Bourbon County Health in All Policies Task Force and select a representative – TABLED FROM JULY 25, 2023.

 

  1. Woellhof moved to table the consideration of the MOU to the August 15, 2023, meeting and have City Attorney review the terms that T. VanHoecke questioned and revise the language. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO TABLE THE CONSIDERATION OF THE MOU TO THE AUGUST 15, 2023, MEETING AND HAVE CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW THE TERMS THAT T. VANHOECKE QUESTIONED AND REVISE THE LANGUAGE.

 

  1. Selection of date for Certified Local Government Program (CLG) Work Session in August with Katrina Ringler, Commission and Community

 

  1. Wells moved to approve the date of Friday, August 11, 2023, at 5:00PM as a Work Session to invite the community to participate in an open discussion with Katrina Ringler about Fort Scott becoming a Certified Local Government as an option to our current Design Review Board process. He requested that the City Clerk post the information packet online for those who were interested in learning more about the program.

 

APPROVE THE DATE OF FRIDAY, AUGUST 11, 2023, AT 5:00PM AS A WORK SESSION TO INVITE THE COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN A DISCUSSION WITH KATRINA RINGLER ABOUT FORT SCOTT BECOMING A CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AS AN OPTION TO OUR CURRENT DESIGN REVIEW BOARD PROCESS.

 

APPEARANCES:

 

  1. Rob Hansen – Son of American Legion Car & Motorcycle Show: Squad Commander R. Hansen addressed the Commission to request a temporary street closure for a fundraising event that will be held in the Landmark Bank parking lot. He is requesting to close off the street for safety because it is a family event.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve the request for a temporary street closure of 3rd between Main and National on Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 8:00AM-1:00PM. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVE THE REQUEST FOR A TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURE OF 3RD BETWEEN MAIN AND NATIONAL ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023, FROM 8:00AM-1:00PM.

 

  1. Matkin stated the City would provide barricades for both ends of the street.

 

  1. Mark McCoy and Tayton Majors – Bourbon County REDI: T. Majors addressed the Commission with a Business Retention and Expansion presentation. The PowerPoint presentation is included with these minutes.

 

NEW BUSINESS:

 

  1. Consideration for the purchase of a fire truck: Fire Chief, Dave Bruner gave a presentation on the need for the City to consider purchasing a fire truck to replace the failing 1997 E-One Pumper from Station 2. It was usually the first truck out, however over the past (6) months the reliability of the truck is an issue and has been placed into a backup reserve mode. Bruner stated that a worn apparatus is a threat to the community and the firefighters. He said that the parts become more difficult to get with the age of the truck and repairing it does not change the age of the unit and waiting for a disaster is not safe or productive. He asked the Commission for permission to begin looking for grants and bids on inventory. PowerPoint presentation included with these minutes.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve that the FSFD could begin looking for grants and potential inventory for the purchase of a fire truck to replace the 1997 E-One Pumper from Station 2. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THAT THE FSFD COULD BEGIN LOOKING FOR GRANTS AND POTENTIAL INVENTORY FOR THE PURCHASE OF A FIRE TRUCK TO REPLACE THE 1997 E-ONE PUMPER FROM STATION 2.

 

  1. Amendment 1 to the Brick Street Policy: M. Wells requested that the Commission approve an amendment to the current Brick Street Policy as follows:

 

Amendment 1

  1. Concerning the treatment of manhole covers; it is here by adopted according to the recommendation of the street advisory board to allow up to 12 inches in a square pattern around manholes for bricks to be laid up against. This will protect the manhole covers and allow the bricks a solid surface to rest against.

 

  1.  Concerning the intersections of brick streets and asphalt streets. It is here by adopted, according to the recommendation of the street advisory board that wherever a brick street abuts against a non-brick street the intersection where the brick streets abut against; May upon the advisement of the Public Works, Director, or the street department Director be done as a concrete intersection. Concrete at intersections where the brick street would abut against shall be done in a minimum of 8 inches of concrete reinforced by a minimum 3/8 rebar on an 8 in.² pattern or according to KDOT specifications.

 

Be it also adopted that wherever a case shall arise where the brick    street is running through the middle of two adjoining asphalt     streets, there may at the advisement of the public works Director, or        the street department Director, allow for the use of an apron of up        to 20 feet that would abut against the brick street that passes          through, allowing the brick street, a continuous path, splitting the         two concrete aprons, adjoining the asphalt streets. All concrete       aprons shall be done at a minimum of 8 inches, with a minimum of        3/8 rebar being placed on 8-inch squares, or according to KDOT   specifications.

 

This will again allow a solid surface for the bricks to abut against.

 

  1. Any, and all bricks that may become available because of any concrete apron or intersection, shall be palletized, cleaned, and stored according to the Brick Street policy to later be used on the

 

 

repair and maintenance of other brick streets. At no time shall    bricks be allowed to be used as full, or underlayment.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve Amendment 1 to the Brick Street Policy. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED AMENDMENT 1 TO THE BRICK STREET POLICY.

 

  1. Consideration of bids for Evergy Infantry Substation Sanitary Sewer Relocation Project No. 23-005B: J. Dickman stated that (5) bids were received for the project on July 21, 2023. The lowest bidder was Bennett, Inc. of Lamar, MO with the bid of $232,477.50, substantially complete within 90 days, fully complete in 120 days. J. Dickman stated that he recommends the bid be awarded to Bennett, Inc.

 

  1. VanHoecke moved to approve that the bid for the Evergy Infantry Substation Sanitary Sewer Relocation Project No. 23-005B be awarded to Bennett, Inc. of Lamar, MO at $232,477.50. M. Guns seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED THAT THE BID FOR THE EVERGY INFANTRY SUBSTATION SANITARY SEWER RELOCATION PROJECT NO. 23-005B BE AWARDED TO BENNETT, INC. OF LAMAR, MO. AT $232,477.50.

 

  1. Wells clarified with J. Dickman that this project is paid for by Evergy and not the City.

 

  1. Consideration to set deadlines for City Commission meeting agenda practice and procedure: M. Wells requested that the Commission consider approving a deadline for the good of the Commission to receive the information earlier to have time to make more informed decisions at meetings. This would require an earlier deadline.  T. VanHoecke stated that he believed there was a policy already in place.
  2. Woellhof moved to table the consideration until the August 15, 2023, meeting to confirm if there was an existing policy in place. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO TABLE THE CONSIDERATION UNTIL THE AUGUST 15, 2023, MEETING TO CONFIRM IF THERE WAS AN EXISTING POLICY IN PLACE.

 

 

 

 

REPORTS AND COMMENTS:

 

City Manager:  B. Matkin – no comments

 

City Engineer:  J. Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspection

  1. CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project continues. Currently the crew is working behind City Hall to line manholes.
  2. 15th and National – 17th and Eddy – trying to get contractor out to clean up and finish. Utilities are moved. Contractor states they are currently booked on other projects.
  3. M. Wells confirmed with J. Dickman that the South Industrial Park Waterline Extension has a purpose in the future and ties into the loop to increase water pressure to the businesses in the area. Also, the City needs to move forward and complete the access road. J. Dickman stated that he needs to know the measurements to add the additional cost of asphalt to the bid.

 

City Attorney:  B. Farmer

No comment.

 

COMMISSIONERS’ COMMENTS:

 

  1. Harrington: Not in attendance

 

  1. Guns:
  2. Thank you to all volunteers for the Splash Pad
  3. USD 234 will provide free breakfast and lunch to all students in the district for the school year
  4. August 4th and 5th is Sales Tax Holiday, many local businesses are participating
  5. Many activities this week including the Champions Forever event at Memorial Hall
  6. August 10th is the Contractors’ Meeting at City Hall
  7. August 12th is the Poverty Paradigm at the Middle School brought by CORE Community Bourbon County. She is planning to attend. Tickets are still available.

 

  1. Woellhof: No comments other than a correction that the Champions Forever is being held at the High School, not Memorial Hall.

 

  1. VanHoecke:
  2. Hats off to City Crews for the storm clean up again.
  3. Brush dump is still open
  4. Congratulations and thank you to all those who worked to get the Splash Pad completed for Fort Scott

 

  1. Wells:
  2. Thank you for the Splash Pad and very thankful for all who worked to get it to its completion, have seen many out there enjoying it
  3. Thankful for the rain

 

ADJOURNMENT:

  1. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:44PM. E. Woellhof seconded. All voted aye.

 

APPROVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 7:44PM.

 

Respectfully submitted for approval,

Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Government

City of Uniontown Minutes of August 8

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Unapproved Minutes of the Uniontown City Council

The Regular Council Meeting on August 8, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:02PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman (8:08), Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Amanda Lancaster (Diehl, Banwart, Bolton), Mary Pemberton, Joe George, Betsie Binford (Old Settlers Committee), Mary Pillion (Old Settlers Committee), Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Amanda Lancaster, Diehl, Banwart, Bolton – Amanda Lancaster gave a presentation of the 2022 financial audit.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to accept the 2022 financial audit as presented

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

Mary Pemberton passed on comments she has heard about the City not having 30AMP or 50AMP receptacles in the park for food trucks/vendors.  Clerk will reach out to other cities.  She will get a quote for installation of 2 receptacles and put on the agenda to discuss further at the next meeting.

 

Joe George complained about “dirty”, sandy water, but tastes OK.  His filter has been very dark.  Superintendent Rich will flush the lines as soon as all of C2’s broken lines have been repaired and flushed.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the July 2023 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $399,740.95, Receipts $35,731.67, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $25,392.09, Checking Account Closing Balance $407,054.53. Bank Statement Balance $407,937.32, including Checking Account Interest of $85.04, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $882.79, Reconciled Balance $407,054.53.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,283.27, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,889.95, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,559.71, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $493,787.46. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $545.35, and Utility CDs $331.95 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $877.30.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of July 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  July Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00; for Total Transfers of $3,026.00.  Net Income for the month of July $7,313.58, Year-to-Date Net Income $63,502.56.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $69,373.71 (56.8%), Expenditures $66,903.65 (41.8%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $21,771.23 (59.1%), Expenditures $17,537.62 (42.6%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $94,208.55 (60.1%), Expenditures $68,835.85 (30.6%); General Fund YTD Revenue $129,221.13 (86.3%), Expenditures $94,088.90 (50.9%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $6,040.03 (81.0%), Expenditures $0 (0%).  The August 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $40,651.43 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda as amended:

  • Minutes of July 11, 2023 Regular Council Meeting and July 18, 2023 Budget Worksession
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of second parties matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(4), in order to discuss economic development that pertains to private financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships, with the open meeting to resume at 7:53, include Sally Johnson.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to extend executive session pursuant to data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of second parties matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(4), in order to continue to discuss economic development that pertains to private financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships, with the open meeting to resume at 8:10, include Mary Pemberton and Sally Johnson.

Mary Pemberton out at 8:09.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to extend executive session pursuant to data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of second parties matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(4), in order to continue to discuss economic development that pertains to private financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships, with the open meeting to resume at 8:23, include Sally Johnson.

 

Open meeting resumed at 8:23, no action from executive session.

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported that the boards holding the electrical receptacles need replaced.  Mayor Jurgensen asked that he continue mosquito fogging – this week, skip a week, then next two weeks in a row.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that most property owners had cleaned up after the two storms in July.  Locations that need his attention this month are 201 Second St-fence; 301 Second St #1-pile of debris on west side; 405 Hill-debris in backyard and shingles; 102 Franklin-dead tree/grass/weeds; 505 Washington has been mowed; 303 Second-grass; and 505 Wall-vehicle is not properly registered/flat tires.  Unfit structure hearing for 404 Washington is September 12.  Council asked if there were anymore stray dogs in town; seems to be an influx of stray cats and armadillos.

 

Clerk Johnson reported on the KMGA Regional Meeting.

She asked to attend CCMFOA Region 7 Kansas Alcohol Beverage Control Training in Olathe on October 6, registration cost is $25.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to allow Sally Johnson to attend CCMFOA Region 7 Kansas Alcohol Beverage Control Training in Olathe on October 6, registration fee $25

 

Mayor Jurgensen asked her to contact Bettis Construction for a timeline on starting our street project.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – nothing

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS

Mural Grant – an update was given.  We have received 75% of grant funds and 100% of donations pledged.  Mural is finished.

 

Placemaking Project – One of the suggestions from the community engagement was to add a baby changing station to restroom facilities.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-1 (Stewart) to purchase a baby changing station from AmeraProducts, Inc for the women’s restroom

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan will acquire a quote for the concrete slab for the pickleball court.  Other amenities for the area were discussed.  Clerk Johnson will send an update to Rachel Carpenter, Health Bourbon County Action Team.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Old Settlers event insurance –

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to donate $300 in lieu of portapotties to the Old Settlers Committee

 

Review and update Capital Improvement Plan – after discussion, remove replace/purchase City maintenance vehicle, as it has been purchased, and purchase/install a chlorination system for the water distribution system, as it is not a priority now, and add refurbish the warehouse into Public Works space.  Leave the rest as is.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0 to transfer the $10,000 in the fund for the chlorinator to refurbish the warehouse

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to adopt the Capital Improvement Plan as amended

 

Moved by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 10:10PM

Government, Kansas

KS Ag Exports=$5 Billion

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Governor Kelly Announces Record-Setting Agriculture Exports of Nearly $5.5 Billion

~~Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam Meets with International Ag Leaders to Strengthen Trade~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that agricultural exports reached $5.46 billion in 2022, the highest export total in decades. The Kansas agriculture industry has grown significantly since Governor Kelly took office; in 2019, Kansas had $3.8 billion in exports.

Once again, the top ag export for Kansas was red meat, which made up $2.1 billion or 38.9% of all agriculture exports. Second were cereals (including corn, wheat, and sorghum), and third was oil seed (primarily soybeans), making up 24.5% and 12.5% of total agricultural exports, respectively.

“Once again, we are shattering records to grow our economy and strengthen our ag industry,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “But even with these record exports, we aren’t taking anything for granted – which is why Secretary Beam and I are building relationships with international trading partners to ensure Kansas farmers and ranchers can continue to feed the world.”

Mexico was Kansas’ largest ag importer with $2.17 billion in 2022, Japan was the second largest with $781 million, and Canada was third with $594 million.

Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam met today with his state and provincial agriculture counterparts from Mexico, Canada, and the U.S. as part of the annual Tri-National Accord in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, to strengthen relationships with key trading partners.  This annual event allows state agricultural leaders to discuss critical issues affecting trade between the three countries, including animal health, rural development, and agriculture technology.

“Kansas is a national leader in agriculture, and the continued growth in agricultural exports shows the significance of the work being done throughout the Kansas ag industry to develop these international markets,” said Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam.

Participation in the Tri-National Accord continues KDA’s vision of achieving long-term, sustainable agricultural prosperity and statewide economic growth. For more about international marketing programs at KDA, including information about upcoming trade missions, and to see the full report on Kansas’ ag exports in 2022, go to agriculture.ks.gov/International.

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Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Prayers for Fallen Fairway Police Officer
Robba and I were heartbroken to hear of the passing of Officer Jonah Oswald. On Monday, Officer Oswald died from injuries after a police shootout in Mission. He was 29 years old and was a 4-year veteran of the Fairway Police Department. Officer Oswald didn’t have to take the call, but he chose to go help his fellow officers and stop criminals. He was a great police officer and a better man. We are praying for his family and the Fairway Police Department.

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Continue reading U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter →

Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Commission Minutes of August 7

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August 7, 2023                                                                                                       Monday, 5:30 p.m.

 

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

 

Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, Patty Ropp, Michael Hoyt, and Patty Ann Sanborn 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 7/31/23. Nelson Blythe seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Michael Hoyt said he ordered 50 copies of the KORA and KOMA handbook for us and the City of Fort Scott. Clifton told him that copies of the documents were printed off for a previous meeting and have been available. Michael asked when budget discussion would take place and asked for a schedule.

 

Patty Ann Sanborn with SEK, Inc. informed the Commissioners of the SEK Housing Conference that will be held November 14th and 15th in Independence and invited them to join other city and county commissioners as well as economic development personnel. Rural Housing Champions Darcy Wilson will speak during the conference. SEK, Inc. was founded in 1957 and works on CTE, workforce development, and childcare as well. Jim thanked Patty Ann for coming and said he would try to attend because the conference sounds interesting.

 

Motor grader finance bids were presented to the Commissioners to open. Bids from two lenders were received, two from Murphy Tractor for John Deere Financial and one from City State Bank. Both bids were based upon the proposed financing amount of $604,000. City State Bank bid annual payments of $112,493.18 for seven years with a fixed interest rate of 7.10%. The total amount of the interest would be $183,452.26 making the grand total of payments $787,452.26. John Deere Financial bid annual payments of $108,345.15 for seven years with a fixed interest rate of 5.75%. The total amount of interest would be $154,417.05 making the grand total of payments $758,417.05. John Deere Financial also bid monthly payments of $8751.35 for seven years with a fixed interest rate of 5.75%. The total amount of interest would be $131,114.40 making the grand total of payments $735,114.40. The Commissioners discussed each bid and Eric said he would analyze the bids and come back with a recommendation during his time later in the meeting.

 

Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, informed the Commissioners of two meetings that will be held within the next few months. The first meeting is the Southeast Kansas 17 County Officials District Meeting which will be held on September 14th in Columbus. Clifton and Nelson are unable to attend but Jim plans on attending. The Kansas Association of Counties Annual Conference will be held December 5-7 in Wichita and all three Commissioners plan on attending.

 

Justin Meeks, County Counselor, said there have been some internal struggles with policy we have in place. Mr. Meeks stated the handbook was created on liability and there is a substance abuse testing prescreen and random quarterly drug testing no matter the department. Justin said we need a centralized person to handle the drug testing and he handed out a copy of best practices from our insurance provider. Mr. Meeks stated elected officials can go outside of certain policy, for example hiring and firing, but not when it comes to insurance and stated the insurance company can raise our rates or even drop our coverage. Jim asked if HR currently handles the drug testing and Justin confirmed that. Nelson asked what the issue is and Justin stated an elected official wants to be added to the list to be able to do drug screens. Jim said we currently have a centralized person and questioned why we would change that when they have been doing a great job. Clifton stated in his opinion it was petty to not follow the policy we have in place. Jim said he sees no reason to make changes to a policy that is working and stated if elected officials don’t like it, they can come to the Commissioners about it. Jim asked Justin if there were any updates on our handbook. Justin said it can be difficult at times to get everybody on the same page when there are difference of opinions. Jim asked if the Commission would review and approve the handbook once it is complete and Justin said yes that is the procedure. Jim asked when it was last updated and Justin said some 5 years ago and some 8-9 months ago but they hit some roadblocks. Jim said he could meet with elected officials regarding the handbook if it is ok with Clifton and Nelson. Justin presented an agreement for our elevator for the Commission to approve. Mr. Meeks stated this is the same agreement as last time and asked if the Commission would like to table the discussion until they had an opportunity to review. Clifton made a motion to allow Chairman Harris to sign the elevator agreement with KONE as presented by Justin Meeks. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved.

 

Susan Bancroft requested a 10-minute executive session to discuss nonelected 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 Bancroft, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:05. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:05 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

Jim Harris requested a 15-minute executive session to discuss nonelected personnel. Clifton made a motion to go into a 15-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 and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:21. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:21 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

 

A short break was taken and normal session was resumed at 6:24.

 

Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, presented the monthly culvert list for the Commissioner’s approval. Eric said the culvert list and the fuel spreadsheet have been emailed to the Commissioners and they will continue to do that in the future to save paper. Eric said they completed asphalting Williams Street last week. Jim said he drove the road a few times and they did a great job. Eric said they are taking out a rutted section next to the National Cemetery to redo the asphalt before school starts. The crew is still clearing overburden at Thomas Quarry to prepare for another blast. Eric stated they now have four mowers out mowing throughout the county. Clifton suggested there is a place to save money, and Nelson said they would still need to mow intersections. Eric said they picked up the belly dump trailer last week and the new truck will be here this week so they will be able to have two belly dump trailers hauling gravel. Eric discussed the bids stating that there is a savings of $52,337 with the monthly payments option with John Deere Financial versus the annual payment option that City State Bank bid. Eric said he would like to stay local but that is a significant savings. Jim agreed and said it is hard to stay local when they could save the county $53,000. Nelson made a motion to go with John Deere Financial’s monthly payment bid. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved. Eric said they received one Request for Qualifications for the feasibility study for an overpass south of town and that was from Schwab Eaton. Jim explained this was the first step in the process because you can’t apply for grants without a feasibility study. Eric said it is just their qualifications and if we choose them, they will give us a dollar amount to perform the study. Jim asked the other Commissioners if they were ok with Eric contacting Schwab Eaton to get a price to bring back to the meeting next week and they both agreed. Nelson asked Eric if he could get them a price if the county only mowed intersections versus mowing all roads.

 

Nelson questioned where we were with the money on CD’s. Clifton said he as been told the Treasurer hasn’t done it yet and that we are losing money. Nelson agreed stating we need to get the extra money from the interest. The subject of CD’s will be placed on the agenda for next week so the Treasurer can be present to update the Commissioners. Clifton said there have been a lot of rumors going around that the Via Christi ER is leaving. Clifton said he has been fully aware that another healthcare facility has been talking about buying Via Christi. Clifton said that Legacy and Bourbon County REDI have been working for a long time and have been working with a strategic partner for healthcare in our county and that an announcement will be made in the next couple of weeks that will be a big deal for our community. Clifton stated the rumors about the ER closing is not true and if Via Christi is purchased there is a plan for healthcare in Bourbon County.

 

Jim thanked Clifton for the days he has spend working on our healthcare. Clifton said Legacy Health and Bourbon County REDI deserve a lot of credit because they have done a lot of work that will pay off in the near future.

 

Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:38. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.

Approved 8-14-2023

THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

___________________, Chairman

___________________, Commissioner

ATTEST:                                                                                                    ___________________, Commissioner

                                                         

Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Clerk

                             , Approved Date

 

 

Government, Kansas

Imagination Library Program Expands in Kansas

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Governor Kelly Welcomes Dolly Parton to Kansas for the Imagination Library Statewide Celebration

~~Proclaims August 14 ‘Imagination Library of Kansas Day’ in the State~~

OVERLAND PARK – Governor Laura Kelly today welcomed iconic singer-songwriter and early childhood literacy advocate Dolly Parton to Kansas to celebrate the statewide expansion of her Imagination Library program.

The celebration comes after the announcement last month that every child in Kansas is now eligible to participate in the program to receive one free, high-quality, age-appropriate book per month until their fifth birthday. That’s a total of 60 books from birth to age 5! Today, Kansas is one of just 15 states where the program is available statewide, with more coming onboard later this year.

“Well Kansas, we did it! I’m so thankful for Governor Kelly, Representative Waymaster and the countless friends and local partners across Kansas who have made this dream come true,” Dolly Parton said. “Let’s celebrate by registering as many children and families as we can to receive the gift of Imagination Library books right to their home each month. Together, we can inspire children across Kansas to love books and reading, and that’s a gift that will last a lifetime.” 

This statewide expansion of the Imagination Library was made possible through the additional funding that was included in Governor Kelly’s budget proposal at the start of the 2023 legislative session and was passed by the bipartisan Kansas legislature.

“I’m honored that Dolly has taken the time to help our state celebrate this exciting milestone of being able to provide the gift of reading for children and families in every part of Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I urge all eligible families to take advantage of this program and to sign their children up for the Imagination Library of Kansas.” 

This was a closed event to nearly 500 supporters of the program and special guests hosted by the Imagination Library of Kansas. The event featured a sit-down conversation between Dolly Parton and Governor Kelly where Parton also presented the governor with a copy of her book, Coat of Many Colors. Governor Kelly also declared August 14 “Imagination Library of Kansas Day.” The celebration was emceed by Representative Troy Waymaster, whose three children are all enrolled in the Imagination Library Program. The evening concluded with Parton signing “Coat of Many Colors” and “Try.”

“All children in Kansas should be able to have the same opportunity that my sons have,” Representative Troy Waymaster said.  “All three of our sons participate in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, thank you, Dolly Parton, for providing the gift of reading for all children ages zero to five in the state of Kansas.”

 

About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 200 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community Partners.  The Imagination Library mails more than 2 million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five – at no cost to families.  Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More and Be More.

The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.

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Fort Scott, Government

This week at City Hall

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This week at City Hall:

 

TUES., AUG. 15TH – 6:00PM – Regular City Commission Meeting – Agenda available on www.fscity.org

WED., AUG. 16TH – 12:00PM – Airport Advisory Board Meeting – No agenda planned

THURS., AUG. 17TH – 5:00PM – Streets Advisory Board Meeting – No agenda planned

 

These meetings are open to the public and will be on the City of Fort Scott YouTube Channel.

 

Please publish and announce if possible. Thank you

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

U.S. 54 bridge survey begins this week near Uniontown

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The week of Aug. 14 the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin a survey for the replacement of the Turkey Creek bridge on U.S. 54 in Bourbon County. The bridge is 1.2 miles east of the U.S. 54/K-3 south junction (see map).

 

The approximate length of the survey area is 2,500 feet. The survey is based on the existing highway alignment and is expected to be finished by Sept. 7.

 

Activities include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the corridor. A member of the survey crew will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property. Joe Bowen will manage the survey for KDOT. Persons with questions may contact KDOT Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

 

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bo Co Commission Amended Agenda for August 14

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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 14, 2023 5:30

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute followed by Prayer
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Minutes from 8/7/2023
    2. Approval of Payroll Totaling $214,430.95
    3. Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $394,953.25
  1. Public Comments
  2. Susan Walker-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(1)
  3. Discussion of the Changes to the Drug and Alcohol Testing Program
  • Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  • Overpass Request for Qualifications
  1. Jennifer Hawkins-County Clerk, KC Mart Cereal Malt Beverage License Renewal
  2. Susan Walker, Patty Love, Jennifer Hawkins-Financial Policies & Procedures
  3. Susan Walker & Patty Love-CD’s
  • Jim Harris-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(1)
  • Jim Harris-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(4)
  • Commission Comments
  1. 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.

 

Bourbon County, Government

Amended Bo Co Commission Agenda for August 14

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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 14, 2023 5:30

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute followed by Prayer
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Minutes from 8/7/2023
    2. Approval of Payroll Totaling $214,430.95
    3. Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $394,953.25
  1. Public Comments
  2. Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  3. Overpass Request for Qualifications
  • Jennifer Hawkins-County Clerk, KC Mart Cereal Malt Beverage License Renewal
  • Susan Walker, Patty Love, Jennifer Hawkins-Financial Policies & Procedures
  1. Susan Walker & Patty Love-CD’s
  2. Susan Walker-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(1)
  3. Jim Harris-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(1)
  • Jim Harris-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(4)
  • Commission Comments
  • Adjourn Meeting

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

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

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

attorney-client relationship.

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

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

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

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

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

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Fort Scott, Government, Schools
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Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                      Superintendent                                                                                                                                             

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

AUGUST 14, 2023 – 5:30 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0       Call Meeting to Order                     David Stewart, President

 

2.0       Flag Salute

 

3.0       Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)

 

4.0       Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)

            4.1       Board Minutes

  1. 07/17/2023 Regular Meeting
  2. 08/07/2023 Special Meeting

            4.2       Financials-Cash Flow Report

            4.3       Check Register

            4.4       Payroll – July 20, 2023 – $1,619,878.22

            4.5       Activity Fund accounts

4.6       USD 234 Gifts

           

5.0       Recognitions (Information/Discussion Item)

5.1 Student Recognition

5.2 Employee Recognition

5.3 Board Member Acknowledgements

 

6.0       Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)

            6.1       Superintendent’s Report

            6.2       Assistant Superintendent’s Report

            6.3       Special Education Director’s Report

            6.4       Finance Director’s Report

                                               

7.0       Old Business

7.1       Addition of two (2) full-time substitute positions (Action Item)

 

 

 

8.0       New Business

8.1       Handbooks for the 2023-24 school year (Action Item)

Emergency Operations Plan

Employee – Classified

Employee Safety Manual

Federal

8.2       KASB Policy Updates (Action Item)

8.3       SRO Agreement with the City of Fort Scott (Action Item)

8.4       MOU with Learning Tree Institute (Action Item)

 

  9.0     Public Forum

 

10.0     Other Business – Personnel Matters

10.1     Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)

10.2     Exit Executive Session

10.3     Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)

 

11.0     Adjourn Meeting