Category Archives: Government

The City of Uniontown Council Meeting on December 13, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00PM by President of Council Ervin. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Joshua Bales and Jason Thompson-Green Environmental Services, Linda and Danny Nation-4 States Sanitation, Raymond “Skeet” George, Joe George, Mary Pemberton, City Attorney Jacob Manbeck, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Public Hearing for city trash service – Attorney Manbeck opened the hearing. There was discussion with the vendor representatives about services they can offer and current private residential rates. There were no comments from the citizens in attendance. Over the next three months the City will finalize the planning of the proposed trash service.

Ruritan Bathroom Project, Raymond “Skeet” George – Mr George requested a recess for the Council to walk to the restroom to view progress.

Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to recess for 5 minutes to view the progress

Open meeting resumed at 7:26PM.

Mr George would like to have guttering put on the building, LACO will donate if there is a sign acknowledging the donation. A list of entities/individuals that donated time and service to the construction will be given to Clerk Johnson to send thank you notes. Clerk Johnson will research a sign for the building that acknowledges the building provided by Uniontown Ruritan and those who donated time/service to the project. Total cost of the facility is upwards of $50,000.

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to allow signs acknowledging those responsible for the construction of the restroom building

Councilman Ervin asked to have the custodial job description amended to include the cleaning of the new restroom facilities.

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1) in order to discuss performance on non-elected personnel, open meeting to resume at 7:30PM

Open meeting resumed at 7:30PM. Council presented bonuses to staff.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the November 2022 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $363,706.17, Receipts $37,281.81, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $33,573.47, Checking Account Closing Balance $354,638.51. Bank Statement Balance $356,257.28, including Checking Account Interest of $49.96, Outstanding Deposits $216.27, Outstanding Checks $1,835.04, Reconciled Balance $354,638.51. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,159.60, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,668.01, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,436.60, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $431,902.72. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $361.40, and Utility CDs $362.78 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $724.18. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of November 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. November Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00 and to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00 and to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500.00, Total Transfers of $12,776.00. Net Loss for the month of November $9,067.66, Year-to-Date Net Income $30,895.01. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $108,458.97 (102.9%), Expenditures $100,869.46 (77.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $32,090.30 (89.9%), Expenditures $32,458.78 (79.1%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $113,457.96 (81.3%), Expenditures $144,157.30 (58.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $140,825.06 (109.6%), Expenditures $133,508.49 (80.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $7,661.33 (111.8%), Expenditures $10,620.81 (99.9%). The December 2022 estimated payables, including end of year transfers, in the amount of $51,747.08 were presented.

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Esslinger, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

Minutes of November 7, 2022, Regular Council Meeting
Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported the KDHE inspected the wastewater and water systems.

Black Hills was here last week for leak survey, no leaks found.

He spoke to someone about the tree limbs overhanging on Second Street between Hill and Clay Streets. They were supposed to trim but haven’t. He will talk to them again.

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported Smith Estate demolition is about 80% complete.

There was a complaint about the possibility of someone living in a RV at 401 Sherman. A letter was sent and owner responded that no one is living in it, he is working on it at night. He will remove from the property in the near future. Clerk Johnson also reported on a noise complaint. She spoke with the person being complained about and has since been informed that the issue has been resolved.

Clerk Johnson and Councilman Ervin reported on the KMGA Prepay Gas Supply Project. After discussion, Council asked to have KMGA representative give a presentation with more details about the project. Clerk Johnson will contact them to set up a meeting. The December KMGA member update was discussed.

She reminded Council of upcoming League of Kansas Municipalities events and trainings.

Kansas Municipal Utilities has scheduled a Special Meeting of the KMU Membership to consider amendments to the bylaws to change status from 501(c)4, for profit, to 501(c)3, non-profit. A voting delegate had not been named since 2014.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to designate Amber Kelly as KMU voting delegate

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to designate Larry Jurgensen as KMU alternate delegate

This is the last year she and her husband will be decorating the park. She asked that the holiday decorations not be stored in the shop attic area any longer. It is too difficult to put them up and take them down from there. It was agreed they could be stored in the warehouse. It was suggested to put on the October 2023 agenda to solicit volunteers or set a workday to put the decorations out.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – thanked Frankie & Sally Johnson for their years of volunteering to decorate the park for Christmas.

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – absent

OLD BUSINESS

Due to Mayor Jurgensen not in attendance,

Motion by Hartman, Second be Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to table discussion on the School Pond Project and Placemaking Project until January 2023 meeting.

American Rescue Plan Act update – three sealed bids for remodel of existing City Hall restrooms into one ADA compliant unisex restroom. Bid 1 – Terry Nading, $26,130.56; Bid 2 – French’s Plumbing, $26,575.00; Bid 3 – Karlskint & Marsh Const, $27,630.00.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to award to Terry Nading in the amount of $26,130.56

Clerk Johnson will call Nading in the morning to inform of the award. She will mail a formal notice of award and set up contract signing and notice to proceed before the first of the year.

NEW BUSINESS

CMB License Renewal for 2023 – Union Station

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to approve 2023 CMB License for Union Station

Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(4), in order to discuss confidential financial information and include Sally Johnson, the open meeting to resume at 8:55PM

Open meeting resumed at 8:55PM with no action from session.

Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 8:57PM

Bourbon County, Government

City of Uniontown Agenda for Jan. 10 at 7 p.m.

January 9, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

CALL TO ORDER AT by _____________________

ROLL CALL:

___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Bradley Stewart

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

KMGA Prepay Project, Dixie Riedel –

Uniontown Ruritan Bathroom Project, Skeet George –

CITIZENS REQUESTS

FINANCIAL REPORT

Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

Minutes of December 13, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
Resolution 2023-0110-1 – 2023 GAAP Waiver
Destruction of records for 2012 and prior

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent: Bobby Rich

KCC Inspection

Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan

Clerk Report: Sally Johnson

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilwoman Esslinger –

Councilman Hartman –

Councilwoman Kelly –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

OLD BUSINESS

School Pond Project –

Placemaking Project –

American Rescue Plan Act update–open bids for ADA restroom at City Hall

NEW BUSINESS

Motion by __________, Second by ___________, Approved _______ to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at ___________.

Attachements:

2022 Financials – December(2)

01-23 Informational Items

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Minutes of Dec. 20

January 6, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

CITY OF FORT SCOTT
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes of December 20th, 2022 Regular Meeting
The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held December 20th,
2022 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S.
Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners J. Jones, T. Van Hoecke, M. Wells, E. Woellhof were present with Mayor K. Harrington.
FLAG SALUTE AND INVOCATION: T. VanHoecke, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Jeff Hancock, Interim City Manager, Brad Matkin, Assistant City Manager, Travis Shelton, Police Chief, Dave Bruner, Fire Chief, Jason Dickman, City Engineer, Doug Guns, Sergeant Paden Blythe, Sergeant Tim Harper, Sergeant Jason Eastwood, Deputy Trey Sharp, Sergeant Chris Garrett, SRO Mike Trim, Sergeant Brian Thurston, Sergeant Bill Downey,
Corporal Jon Carpenter, Officer Garner, Captain Clint Roberts, Lieutenant Scott Shelton, Firefighter Andrew McGee, Firefighter Wyatt Keyes, Captain Jacob May, Lieutenant Clint Lawrence, Firefighter Ryan Thomas, Firefighter Tristan Branham, Captain Daren Hutchison, Lieutenant Travis Mewhinney, Firefighter
Chris Anderson, Firefighter Andrew Kirksey, Jim Eastwood, Paula Eastwood, Rachel Carpenter, Kim Eastwood, Jason Pickert, Caleb Bell, Ryan Thomas, Darin Hutchison, Julie Thurston, Tammy Helm, and Stuart Troutman.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: J. Jones motioned to approve the December 20th, 2022, Agenda. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED AGENDA OF DECEMBER 20 TH , 2022 CITY COMMISSION
MEETING.
PROCLAMATION/RECOGNITIONS: Police Chief Travis Shelton and Fire Chief
Dave Bruner presented Certificates of Recognition to the following Police Officers and Firefighters for Heroic Lifesaving Events: Sergeant Paden Blythe, Sergeant
Tim Harper, Sergeant Jason Eastwood, Deputy Trey Sharp, Sergeant Chris Garrett, SRO Mike Trim, Sergeant Brian Thurston, Sergeant Bill Downey, Corporal Jon Carpenter, Officer Garner, Captain Clint Roberts, Lieutenant Scott Shelton, Firefighter Andrew McGee, Firefighter Wyatt Keyes, Captain Jacob May,
Lieutenant Clint Lawrence, Firefighter Ryan Thomas, Firefighter Tristan Branham, Captain Daren Hutchison, Lieutenant Travis Mewhinney, Firefighter Chris Anderson, Firefighter Jonah Hall, and Firefighter Andrew Kirksey.
CONSENT AGENDA:
A. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of December 6th, 2022 and special
meeting of December 12th, 2022.

B. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1326-A totaling $320,861.49
C. Request to Pay – Midwest Engineering Group, LLC – $3,412.50 – Lake Release Valves Evaluation and Repairs
D. Request to Pay – EPEC – $174,970.38 – Cell 1 Aeration Upgrade and Baffle Curtain
E. Request to Pay – O’Brien Rock Co., Inc. – $5,840.00 – Cooper Street Project
F. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – $31,712.65
1. System Designs Phase – $8,740.20
2. Cooper Street Inspection – $2,552.45
3. 2022 Sanitary Sewer Project – $4,350.00
4. City Engineer – $4,120.00
5. S. Horton St. and W. 6th St. – Survey and Preliminary Design – $11,950.00
G. Request to Pay – HDR Engineering Inc. – $7,479.38 – River Intake/Dam Improvement
M. Wells inquired about the Fuel Surcharge from O’Brien Rock Co. B. Matkin stated that a credit of over $2,000.00 will be given.
J. Jones motioned to approve the Consent Agenda. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.
Public Comment: None
Old Business:
1. Resolution No. 48-2022 – Directing Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 523 S. Heylman
Norman Nation, Code Enforcement Supervisor, provided an update on the status of the property. The action to correct the violations had not been taken by the homeowner and another violation was observed by the Codes Officers.
M. Wells motioned to proceed with going out for bids for the removal of the structure and accessory structure at 523 S. Heylman recorded as Resolution No. 48-2022. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO GO OUT FOR BIDS FOR THE REMOVAL OF THE
STRUCTURE AND ACCESSORY STRUCTURE AT 523 S. HEYLMAN
RECORDED AS RESOLUTION NO. 48-20

K. Harrington asked B. Matkin why water had not been shut off to the residence.
N. Nation stated that it is his understanding that water had been shut off and locked, but it was tampered with and turned back on.
B. Matkin asked if the lock had been cut. N. Nation stated that was his understanding. B. Matkin and J. Jones directed that the water meter be removed from the property.
2. Consideration to move forward with Lake Fort Scott Project:
B. Matkin stated that the current amount in the Lake Fund is
$473,455.00 from the previous sale of lake lots. The only expense was for the docks that were purchased.
B. Matkin also addressed the quotes for a 2” meter and water. He stated that the $84,000.00 would only put meter at west side of lake which includes rock sawing up to the meter. To go to the shelter house would require another quote and more money.
T. VanHoecke questioned items open but not paid. B. Matkin
responded with the dam for $32,000.00 plus engineering expenses.
Doug Guns explained that the existing shelter house would need to be retrofitted for water, sewer and electric and would require a force main sewer, a lift station, grinder pump, and holding tank.
J. Jones motioned that the City Commission recess into Executive
session to discuss the issues of the Lake Fort Scott Project, pursuant to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). The sessionincluded the five (5) City Commissioners, the Assistant City Manager, Interim
City Manager, the City Attorney, Rob Harrington, and Doug Guns. The meeting will resume in the City Commission room at 6:38 PM. M. Wells seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS THE ISSUES OF THE LAKE FORT SCOTT PROJECT, PURSUANT TO
FINANCIAL AFFAIRS OR TRADE SECRETS OF CORPORATIONS,
PARTNERSHIPS, TRUST, AND INDIVIDUAL PROPRIETORSHIPS
EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319(B)(4). THE SESSION INCLUDED THE FIVE
(5) CITY COMMISSIONERS, THE ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER, INTERIM
CITY MANAGER, THE CITY ATTORNEY, ROB HARRINGTON, AND DOUG
GUNS.
J. Jones motioned to come out of Executive Session with no action. T.
VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION WITHOUT ACTION AT
6:38 PM.

M. Wells motioned to move forward with the improvements to the shelter house
at Lake Fort Scott. He then amended his motion to move forward with the
improvements to the shelter house including 6” guttering, downspouts, and
fascia board for $1,400.00, and painting up to $3,000.00 to be used out of the
lake fund. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE IMPROVEMENTS TO THE
SHELTER HOUSE AT LAKE FORT SCOTT. HE THEN AMENDED HIS MOTION
TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SHELTER HOUSE
INCLUDING 6” GUTTERING, DOWNSPOUTS, AND FASCIA BOARD FOR
$1,400.00, AND PAINTING UP TO $3,000.00 TO BE USED OUT OF THE LAKE
FUND.
M. Wells motioned to move forward with the installation of electric at $5,400.00
and the installation of water at $84,344.00 at site designated with the provided
quote.
Doug Guns reiterated that the quotes only include rock saw and material up to
the meter. Anything after that would require further quotes and materials at an
additional expense.
J. Jones suggested that the Commission wait on this decision for at least sixty
(60) days.
M. Wells stated that he understands the suggestion, but on the behest of the
Lake Advisory Board, and what they requested of him to bring to the Commission
‘s attention, he would like to make the motion on their behalf.
J. Jones stated that he appreciated the motion but should wait due to some
possible development. Motion died due to lack of second.
3. Memorial Hall Bid Documents from Engineer:
Jason Dickman confirmed that the bid had been published in the Fort Scott
Tribune and is due January 24th, 2023, 2:00 PM at City Hall, 123 S. Main St.,
Fort Scott, KS. He also stated that he added tuck point and patch the brick
columns at the base of the steps.
J. Hancock stated that there will be a work session on January 10th, 2023, at
4:30 PM. He said that Jason’s report will include all project statuses that will be
helpful in planning Capital Improvement Projects.
Appearances:
A. Michael Clancy from Renodry USA was scheduled to appear this day. Due
to a conflict in his schedule, he will appear on January 10th, 2023, to address the Commission.
B. Rob Harrington presented a review of the accomplishments of the Bourbon County Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI) in 2022 and plans
for 2023. Also presented an update on National Historic Grant for Memorial Hall Repairs was presented by Bourbon County REDI invested in a retail study, housing study and a labor study for the price of $45,000.00. The lifespan of the

study is approximately three (3) years. The findings showed there are
opportunities for more housing and retail in Fort Scott than other areas of
Bourbon County due to location and population. He stated that Bourbon County
REDI was able to successfully work with the County to bring in Legacy Health
Group bringing a Cardiologist and a Urologist to Fort Scott. Legacy Health Group
is also working with USD 234 to bring an expansion to the pre-school and Head
Start classrooms which allows taxpayers to benefit from added services without
seeing an increase in tax liabilities. In 2022 REDI had also worked with the City
on the Storm Siren Grant, the Memorial Hall Grant, and the Horton Street Grant.
A Tax Revenue Study was also done by REDI that is necessary for some of the
projects under consideration for 2023. REDI also gave out $35,000.00 in small
grants to the community during 2022. The total cost for the grant for Memorial
Hall is $983,642.00, not including contingencies. This money will cover all the
windows, and exterior tuck pointing to stop water infiltration, mold remediation,
lead paint and asbestos removal and brick issue repairs. The grant is a 50/50
match between the City and REDI. The City’s total contribution is $491,821.00.
Rob Harrington stated he was told that the City budgeted $150,000.00 for the
Memorial Hall steps repair so that is subtracted from the total. There is a 10%
administrative cost included that REDI will donate back to the City ($89,422.00)
worth of in-kind services. Rob Harrington continued to break down the estimated
numbers for the cost of this grant. The final estimated number for the City’s
estimated 50% portion was approximately $209,600.00 due over the next three
(3) years with an expected end date of Spring 2025. The actual numbers are not
final at this time. Rob Harrington thanked the Commission and stated he is
looking forward to the continued City/REDI partnership.
New Business:
A. Public Hearing: 2022 Budget Amendments
J. Jones motioned to open the Public Hearing at 7:15 PM. M. Wells seconded.
All voted aye.
APPROVED TO OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE 2022 BUDGET
AMENDMENTS AT 7:15 PM.
Ben Hart of BakerTilly addressed the Commission saying that the state of Kansas
requires budget amendments for any possible overages. Four (4) funds were
amended. B. Hart stated that the library fund, equipment reserve fund, water
utility fund and sewer utility fund. He also stated in the case of the library the
taxes are not going up and they are not changing any levies. He stated what this
amendment is doing is allowing for the cash from last year to be rolled over to
this year and distributed to the library. He stated that their appropriation will go
up only to the amount of cash that’s remaining. The equipment reserve fund
amendment permits the budget to be increased for unbudgeted cash carryover.
The water utility fund amendment increases expenses within that fund in case it
is needed for chemicals, fuel, etc., and the sewer fund amendment allows for
increase for projects. Ben Hart also stated that there was a $81,000.00 surplus
and not the deficit that he originally thought when he first took over. Ben Hart
stated that he will present year-end figures and a report at the January 10 th,
2022, City Commission meeting. He stated that if we are still off, we will do

another budget amendment in January. The funds mentioned were the ones that
needed to be addressed now.
K. Harrington asked if there were any public comments or questions. There were
none.
T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing at 7:20 PM. J. Jones seconded.
All voted aye.
APPROVED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE 2022 BUDGET
AMENDMENTS AT 7:15 PM.
M. Wells moved to approve the 2022 Budget Amendments. J. Jones seconded.
All voted aye.
APPROVED THE 2022 BUDGET AMENDMENTS.
Financial Report:
Ben Hart stated that originally there was a budget deficit. However, they
determined that there is a budget surplus but that he believes most of it will be
spent and it probably happened due to an overly conservative assumption.
He stated that he did not see any issues. He explained that the funds are grouped
into fund types. He stated there are many and he would like to explore combining
some of the funds for more streamlined accounting purposes in January.
Ben Hart stated that he will come back on January 10th, to work on the Capital
Improvement Plan with the departments to identify priorities. He stated that he
will also offer some pre-audit estimates to show where we will end up, especially
with the general fund, water utility fund and sewer utility fund. B. Hart stated
that if they do decide to combine funds, another budget amendment would be
necessary to modify the 2023 budget with those changes.
Discussion was had regarding options for projections for the next budget.
B. RESOLUTIONS:
2022-51 – Justification for Cooper Street Project:
B. Matkin presented the advantages of doing the remainder of the Cooper Street
Project in-house instead of bidding out. He stated that so far Phase One of Cooper
Street has cost $199,000.00 and estimated costs for Phase Two materials and
labor will be $270,000.00 but includes the purchase of a bigger Track Loader
which will make the work of the project more efficient but will also be useful in
other projects. He stated that the future total price of the Cooper Street Project
would then be $469,096.00.
Discussion was had regarding the purchase of the equipment and the cost of
doing the project by bidding out. B. Matkin stated August 2021, the lowest bid
for the project was $776,000.00.

7
Further discussion was had on the anticipated completion date and details
required to complete the job. B. Matkin asked for the Commission’s approval to
do the job in-house.
J. Jones expressed concern about getting updates throughout the project if
approved. M. Wells expressed concern about the number of projects they are
asking the crews to do and if it is possible to do it all in-house.
Options were discussed as well as deferring the discussion to future discussions
during the upcoming meeting for Capital Improvement Projects.
J. Jones motioned to approve the direct the city crew to finish Cooper Street in
house instead of bidding it out. Motion struck.
B. Matkin left the meeting to retrieve the information and estimates he had on
the Track Loaders.
2022-52 – Shower House at RV Park at Gunn Park:
Jason Dickman presented to the Commission that he had gone out to look at the
facility. He stated that the current bathroom, by the RV Park, is such that the
options are to go out for bid to repair what is existing which would require the
kind of work that may be excessive compared to building a new structure. He
also stated that getting sewer service out there would be a problem and would
require holding tanks that have to be pumped out as well. The situation and cost
being like what was presented earlier for the improvements at Lake Fort Scott.
M. Wells stated that he had looked at the structure and does not believe it is
worth the money to rehab it as it exists. He would favor a new facility with both
male and female units with a shower and ADA compliant.
B. Matkin returned to the meeting.
B. Matkin stated that he received a quote for over $100,000.00. He reiterated the
amount of work required to save the existing structure. He had also obtained
quotes for prefabricated structures which were cost prohibitive as well.
J. Hancock suggested bringing the topic for further discussion at the upcoming
Capital Improvement Projects meeting. Several voiced agreement.
B. Matkin presented to the Commission two (2) quotes for the purchase of the
Track Loader. The first was a 2005 Caterpillar 963C, located in Lees Summit,
MO, for the price of $94,000.00. The second is a 963C for $96,000.00 in Atlanta,
GA.
Discussion was had about the differences between the two trucks. Further
discussion will be had in the near future. B. Matkin will direct Jerry Morgan,
Streets Supervisor, to reach out to these distributors. If there is a need to have a
special meeting prior to the next Commission meeting to move on the purchase,
the Commission generally agreed to do so.

2022-54 – Approval of 2023 Cereal Malt Liquor Licenses
Retail:
1. G&W LLC – 911 E. 6th St.
2. Walmart Supercenter – 2500 S. Main St.
3. Pete’s of Erie – 605 S. National Ave.
4. Pete’s of Erie – 1902 E. Main St.
5. Pete’s of Erie – 1135 E. Wall St.
6. Pete’s of Erie – 998 N. National Ave.
7. Casey’s General Store – 2216 S. Main St.
8. Walgreens – 2229 S. Main St.
Consumption on the Premises:
9. Woodland Hills Golf Course – 2414 Horton St.
T. VanHoecke moved to approve the 2023 Renewal for Cereal Malt Liquor
Licenses. J. Jones seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED THE 2023 CEREAL MALT LIQUOR LICENSES TO THE EIGHT
(8) RETAIL AND ONE (1) CONSUMPTION ON PREMISES LOCATIONS THAT
APPLIED FOR RENEWAL.
2022-55 – Award of Demolition Bids
Donna Wilson, 102 S. Horton, appeared to address the Commission about her
home that is in the process of Demolition by the City. She stated that she did
not realize that this had not gone this far. She stated that Thomas (Russell)
put a notice on the house, but she had been tearing down little bits of the
house as she had money to do so. She was informed that it was in the paper
and on the radio. She does not get the paper and does not listen to the radio
and just found out that week. She knows that the house must come down but
did get a bid from Saker’s. Ms. Wilson stated that she had told Thomas
(Russell) that she would not have the money until November. However, she
had not gone back to Saker’s. She is concerned about the cost difference
because she knows that Saker’s bid on demolitions for the City. She is
deciding which way is cheaper. She also stated that she has items in the
house. She asked the Commission for extended time due to health issues. T.
VanHoecke asked if she received a letter? She said yes, but only knew what
the letter was about, not the date this would all happen. T. VanHoecke asked
how long the house has been “Red Tagged.” Ms. Wilson did not know. M.
Wells asked Ms. Wilson for a timeline that she believed she could finish getting
the house down. She stated the end of February.
K. Harrington stated that the amount of the bid listed on the 12-20-2022
agenda as $2,500.00 was incorrect. The correct amount of the winning bid
was $1,000.00 submitted by Dave’s Demolition.
J. Jones was in favor of letting the homeowner remove the home.
T. VanHoecke is concerned about the history of citizens stating they will do
the work and not follow through.

M. Wells moved to give the homeowner of 102 S. Horton 60 days to complete
the project. If not completed the City will accept the bid and remove the house.
K. Harrington stated that the bid was only valid for 30 days.
J. Jones moved to pull out Bid #45-2022 and give the homeowner 15 days to
start demolition process with final completion in 60 days. M. Wells seconded.
E. Woellhof, M. Wells, J. Jones, and K. Harrington voted aye. T. VanHoecke
voted nay.
APPROVED TO PULL OUT BID #45-2022 AND GIVE THE HOMEOWNER 15
DAYS TO START DEMOLITION PROCESS WITH FINAL COMPLETION IN
60 DAYS.
Bid #42-2022 – 410 S. Margrave – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation – $4,349.00
Bid #43-2022 – 1718 E. Oak – Dave’s Demolition – $2,500.00
Bid #44-2022 – 1225 E. Elm – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation – $2,939.00
Bid #46-2022 – 102 S. Osbun – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation – $2,939.00
Bid #47-2022 – 1221 S. Main – Skitch’s Hauling & Excavation – $2,938.00
M. Wells moved to accept the lowest bids for demolition on the properties of
410 S. Margrave for $4,349.00, 1225 E. Elm for $2,939.00, 102 S. Osbun for
$2,939.00 and 1221 S. Main for $2,938.00 awarded to Skitch’s Hauling &
Excavation and 1718 E. Oak for $2,500.00 awarded to Dave’s Demolition.
Bid #45-2022 102 S. Horton is removed from Resolution 2022-055. J. Jones
seconded. All voted aye.
Approved to accept the lowest bids for demolition on the properties of
410 S. Margrave for $4,349.00, 1225 E. Elm for $2,939.00, 102 S. Osbun
for $2,939.00 and 1221 S. Main for $2,938.00 awarded to Skitch’s
Hauling & Excavation and 1718 E. Oak for $2,500.00 awarded to Dave’s
Demolition. Bid #45-2022 102 S. Horton is removed from Resolution
2022-055.
K. Harrington requested that Norman Nation give a status update on 102 S.
Horton at the January 10 th, 2023, City Commission meeting.
Reports and Comments:
C. Reports and Comments:
A. Directors Reports: Jason Dickman, City Engineer
1. South Industrial Park Waterline Extension: project plans currently at the
state for approval. Upon approval, the project will be ready for bidding.
2. 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project: waiting for approval from state.
3. Horton and 6th St. Improvements: working toward preliminary plans
being complete by end of 2022.
4. Wastewater Treatment Plant: Crew to install curtains and aerators.
Waiting for information to update WWTP Evaluation Report. Once
complete can move forward on Davis lift station, water reuse system and
grid removal system.

5. Wall Street (US-54) Geometric Improvements Project KDOT CCLIP:
working to get consultant contracted for design.
6. 17th and Eddy Stormwater Improvements: work held up due to utilities
(marked incorrectly or not at all) that need to be relocated so project can
resume.
7. Memorial Hall Steps: set a bid to remain open until 2:00 PM, January
24th, 2023.
8. Fort Scott Pavilion: need final approval to move forward on bid package.
9. Gunn Park Shower House and Bathrooms: creating Scope of Work.
B. Commissioners’ Reports:
E. Woellhof – Thanks First Responders and those recognized tonight.
J. Jones – Echoed thanks to the First Responders, Energy Audit Report
from 2020 (B. Matkin will address). Cut Permits on Contractors (B.
Matkin will be meeting with them Tuesday, Dec. 27 th, 2022) National
Ave. school street sign (asked L. Lewis to add to 1/10/2023 agenda).
Microphone system (B. Matkin has researched and has a quote, will
invite to meeting to address Commission), Bid out for banking (J.
Hancock suggests doing every 3 years), J. Hancock contract, J. Jones
would like for B. Matkin should move up to City Manager with J.
Hancock as advisor and addresses J. Hancock’s bill for services.
T. VanHoecke – Severe weather is coming, look out for your neighbors
and please put pets inside. Make a resolution to get involved in the
community. Wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
M. Wells – expresses gratitude to our First Responders in our
community. Asks that special blessing be put upon them. Merry
Christmas, God’s blessing on everyone for the New Year. Thankful to
be part of this community.
K. Harrington – thanks First Responders and the Commission for
allowing her to serve alongside them and serve as Mayor.
Executive Session:
T. VanHoecke moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for
the purpose of discussion of personnel matters of non-elected personnel
exception in K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) with the (5) Commissioners and the City
Attorney. The meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 8:57 PM. K.
Harrington seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE
SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION OF PERSONNEL MATTERS OF
NON-ELECTED PERSONNEL EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319 (B)(1) WITH THE
(5) COMMISSIONERS AND THE CITY ATTORNEY. THE MEETING WILL
RESUME IN THE COMMISSION ROOM AT 8:57 PM.
J. Jones moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at 8:57
PM. T. VanHoecke seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE
SESSION AT 8:57 PM.
J. Jones moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the
purpose of discussion of personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in
K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) with the (5) Commissioners and the City Attorney. The
meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 9:08 PM. M. Wells seconded.
All voted aye.
APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE
SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION OF PERSONNEL MATTERS OF
NON-ELECTED PERSONNEL EXCEPTION IN K.S.A. 75-4319 (B)(1) WITH THE
(5) COMMISSIONERS AND THE CITY ATTORNEY. THE MEETING WILL
RESUME IN THE COMMISSION ROOM AT 9:08 PM.
T. VanHoecke moved that the City Commission come out of Executive Session at
9:08 PM. K. Harrington seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION COME OUT OF EXECUTIVE
SESSION AT 9:08 PM.
T. VanHoecke moved that the City Commission accept the proposal to maintain
J. Hancock as advisor and consultant for the City of Fort Scott up to six (6)
months at the negotiated rate in the proposal and Brad Matkin will become the
Interim City Manager for the City of Fort Scott for an amount of time to be
evaluated to potentially move into a full-time City Manager position. M. Wells
seconded. All voted aye.
APPROVED THAT THE CITY COMMISSION ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL TO
MAINTAIN J. HANCOCK AS ADVISOR AND CONSULTANT FOR THE CITY OF
FORT SCOTT UP TO SIX (6) MONTHS AT THE NEGOTIATED RATE IN THE
PROPOSAL AND BRAD MATKIN WILL BECOME THE INTERIM CITY
MANAGER FOR THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT FOR AN AMOUNT OF TIME TO
BE EVALUATED TO POTENTIALLY MOVE INTO A FULL-TIME CITY
MANAGER POSITION.
T. VanHoecke congratulated B. Matkin and thanked J. Hancock.
C. Incoming Interim City Manager:
B. Matkin stated that the dog pound has (6) dogs to be adopted, all fees waived.
Information posted about frozen water pipes, be aware and proactive. Had a very
good meeting with ADM last week, doing a very good controlling their BOD’s. Lake
Fort Scott is still having water removed, valve is only open slightly, not much
being taken out. Thank you to the Commissioners for trusting me, not going
anywhere. I will do what’s needed and be transparent. Thank you, Jeff, for
helping me along the way. Merry Christmas and a great 2023 ahead of us. Airport
hose will be replaced after the first of the year. Goals and Accomplishments will
be posted on Facebook.

D. Outgoing Interim City Manager:
J. Hancock spoke of the WSP meeting for truck routes. Wish you all a Merry
Christmas. It has been a real pleasure, and I care for this community.
Adjournment:
T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn at 9:20 PM. K. Harrington seconded. All voted
aye.
ADJOURNED MEETING AT 9:20 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Lewis
City Clerk

Bourbon County, Government

The Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Jan. 10

January 6, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Date: January 10, 2023
1st District–Nelson Blythe Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District–Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk–Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM BEGINNING AT 9:00AM
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Approval of Accounts Payable
• Road Vacation Petition filed by Susan Bancroft
• Matt Quick – NRP Program
• Lora Holdridge – Part–time to Full–time Employee Request
• REDI Funding Discussion
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer
o Audit Services
o November Financials
o Reconsider Main Banking Institution
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer
• Jim Harris – Executive Session KSA 75–4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual
nonelected personnel to protect their privacy
• Public Comment
• Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session:
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 security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

U234 Board of Ed. Meeting Agenda for Jan. 9

January 6, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

JANUARY 9, 2023 – 5:30 P.M.

AGENDA

1.0 Call Meeting to Order Danny Brown, 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 Minutes from December 12, 2022, Board of Education Meeting

4.2 Financials-Cash Flow Report

4.3 Check Register

4.4 Payroll – December 16, 2022 – $1,571,721.90

4.5 Activity Fund accounts

4.6 Second Semester Enrollment Count Report

4.7 Board Policy Additions/Changes

4.8 Resolution 22-10 – To Establish Election of School Board Officers

4.9 Resolution 22-11 – To Establish Regular Meeting Dates

5.0 Employee and Student Recognition

6.0 Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion)

6.1 Fort Scott KNEA Report

6.2 Superintendent’s Report

6.3 Assistant Superintendent’s Report

6.4 Finance Director’s Report

7.0 Old Business

7.1 Fort Scott Preschool Center (Information/Discussion)

7.2 Communications Proposal (Action Item)

8.0 New Business

8.1 Architectural/Engineering Design Services Proposal (Action Item)

8.2 FSHS Course Additions for 2023-24 (Action Item)

FSHS 2023-24 Master Course Catalog

8.3 Revised Classified Pay Schedule (Action Item)

8.4 Resignation of School Attorney (Discussion)

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

President Brown

Fort Scott, Government

Agenda for the FS City Commission on Jan. 10

January 6, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL COMMISSION MEETING ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
JANUARY 10, 2023
6:00 P.M.
I. Roll Call:
J. Jones T. Van Hoecke M. Wells E. Woellhof K. Harrington
II. Flag Salute:
III. Invocation: Led by: M. Wells
IV. Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of December 20th, 2022, and
special meeting of December 29th, 2022.
B. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1327-A totaling $ (to come)
C. Request to Pay – BakerTilly – $9,775.78 – Jeff Hancock services and
expenses for November 2022, Expenses for October 2022.
D. Request to Pay – BakerTilly – $5,104.04 – Interim Financial Management
for November 2022.
E. Request to Pay – EPEC – $459,666.73
1. Cell 1 Aeration Upgrade – $424,088.60 – 65% of Total
2. Baffle Curtain – $35,578.13 – Installation has been completed
F. Request to Pay – Foley Equipment – $180,000.00 – Caterpillar 936K Track
Loader Model 963K.
C. Approval of CMB License For Consumption on the Premises – Debra Cagle
DBA Fifthwheel Tavern – 206 N. Humbolt
V. Reorganization of City Commission
• Election of Mayor
• Commission President
• Bourbon County REDI Representative
• Land Bank Representative
• Fort Scott Housing Authority Delegate
• Lake Advisory Board
• Library Board (Mayor)
VI. Public Comment:

(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five
(5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
VII. Old Business:
A. Financial Update by Ben Hart
B. Update of progress with Code compliance at 102 S. Horton
C. Lake Dock Locations – Doug Guns
VIII. Appearances:
A. Renodry USA – Michael Clancy will address the Commission
regarding their services
IX. Public Hearing: None
X. New Business:
A. Approval of Bid for Demolition of 523 S. Heylman, Bid #48-2022 – Dave’s
Demolition at $1,800.00 or Skitch’s Hauling and Excavation at $3,425.00
B. Approval of 2023 Holiday Schedule
C. Consideration of Jeff Hancock’s Amended Contract – BakerTilly
D. Permission to go out for picnic table grant – Dave Bruner
E. Consideration of Brick Street Policy – M. Wells
F. Consideration to Go Out for Banking Bids – J. Jones
XI. Reports and Comments:
A. Interim City Manager Comments:
B. Engineering Comments:
C. Commissioners Comments:
J. Jones – National Street School Sign
D. City Attorney Comments:
XII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for
Executive Sessions)
XIII. Adjournment:

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission: Work Session Before Meeting on January 10

January 6, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

The Fort Scott City Commission will meet January 10^th, 2023, for a Work Session beginning at 4:30 PM at City Hall, 123 S. Main St. The regular City Commission Meeting will begin at 6:00 PM following the Work Session at City Hall, 123 S. Main St.

Both meetings are open to the public and will also be live on the City’s YouTube Channel.

Fort Scott, Government

FS Chief of Police Retires in February

January 6, 2023 Loretta George Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Chief Travis Shelton Submitted photo.

Travis Shelton, Chief of Police of the Fort Scott Police Department, will retire next month, after 26 years of service.

“My retirement system provides you can retire at age 50, after 25 years service,” Shelton said. “I turn 50 in February.”

“I love Fort Scott and love working for the City of Fort Scott,” he said. “It’s been an awesome career.”

But he is looking forward to retirement.

“I’ve never had more than a week off in my career,” he said. “The plan is to go fishing, get some things done around the house. Eventually the plan is to go to work somewhere else.”

Although he doesn’t have any jobs in mind, “I’d like to put some time in another job long term,” he said.

Shelton has held positions of officer, K9 Handler, sergeant, lieutenant, and chief of police.

He earned an associate of science degree from Fort Scott Community College, and a bachelor of science in criminal justice administration from Missouri Southern State University.

Shelton has served in the community on the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation Board of Directors, as a member of the Kiwanis Club,a former board member at the Key Hole (Youth Center),a former adjunct instructor at Fort Scott Community College, anda former little league football coach.

His wife, Gina Shelton, is the USD 234 Business Manager / Board Clerk. He has a son, Nick, 22, and a daughter Maci,17 years old.

“My wife and I are planning on staying in Fort Scott,” Shelton said. “Gina likes her job and we have no intentions to move.”

Shelton’s last day will be February 28, 2023.

Government, Kansas

KWP Commission Meets Jan. 12

January 6, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission to Meet on Jan. 12 in Wichita

KANSAS CITY, Kan. – The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission will begin its next public meeting at noon on Jan. 12, 2023 at the Great Plains Nature Center, 6232 E 29th St. N, Wichita. The meeting will begin with an introduction of Commissioners and guests, a review of agenda items, approval of past minutes, and public comment on items not listed on the agenda. No items will be voted on during the Commission’s Jan. 12 meeting.

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Secretary Brad Loveless will provide an agency and state fiscal status update, followed by a brief legislative update from KDWP’s chief legal counsel, and a General Discussion period covering:

2023 Commissioner Big Game Permit program update and drawing
Proposed 2023-2024 webless migratory game bird bag limits and season dates
Proposed 2023-2024 waterfowl season dates, and bag and possession limits
Use of night vision during the coyote hunting season
Hunting pressure on public lands
Proposed 2023-2024 deer season dates for Kansas’ military installations
Amount of fees charged for licenses and permits

Commissioners will then hear several Workshop Session items, which may be voted on at a future date, including:

Antelope seasons, bag limits and permits. Staff will recommend a permanent season framework for antelope; discuss several approaches they’re considering to reduce hunter harvest (due to poor production); and, provide an update on proposed permit allocations.
Elk seasons, bag limits and permits. Staff will recommend a permanent season framework for elk, as well as provide an update on units open to hunting and permit allocations.
Big game permanent regulations, to include clarifying the regulation that pertains to acquiring pronghorn antelope permits or preference points, and proposed 2023-2024 deer season dates.
Updates to the Public Lands reference document, to include designating select tracts of Cherokee Lowlands Wildlife Area as refuges; requiring electronic check-in on all public lands for hunting activity only; electronic check-in on select river access sites for non-motorized vessel use; and, reserving most Special Hunts for Kansas residents only.
Annual camping permits. Staff will discuss increased camping occupancy, and changes that may be necessary for resolving capacity and RV storage issues.

Following the Workshop Session, time will again be set aside for public comment on items not listed on the agenda.

The public is welcome and encouraged to participate in person or virtually via Zoom. Virtual participants may access login instructions HERE or watch live video/audio stream of the meeting HERE.

Click HERE to download the Jan. 12, 2023, meeting agenda and briefing book.

An interpreter for the hearing impaired can be requested by calling the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Any individual with a disability may request other accommodations by contacting the Commission secretary at (620) 672-0702.

The next Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission meeting will take place March 9, 2023 at noon at the Ramada Convention Center, Topeka.

Government

Contacting Legislators Hotline

January 4, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Legislative hotline available to Kansans

TOPEKA – Information about the 2023 Kansas Legislature is only a phone call or chat away, the State Library of Kansas reminds residents. The toll-free number for the Legislative Hotline is 1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference and research librarians at the State Library.

Frequently asked questions include:

Who are my legislators?
How can I contact them? and
What is the status of this bill?

Other questions may concern the legislative process, where to find historic information, and other Kansas government related questions.

The Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, however constituents can leave a brief message for their legislators, or for a librarian’s response. Questions can also be emailed to [email protected].

Kansans can also chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask a Librarian service found at kslib.info/ask. From this page, residents use the web or download the mobile app to connect to the State Library’s reference services through chat, email, or phone. TTY users should call 711.

Hotline: 1-800-432-3924

Email: [email protected]

Web: kslib.info/ask

###

Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

January 4, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Celebrating the New Year
Happy New Year! Robba and I are wishing you all a happy new year, and we hope that each one of you has a safe and memorable time celebrating the start of 2023 with your families and loved ones.

Throughout 2022, I have had the opportunity to speak with many of you across our great state. Serving you in the United States Senate is a task I do not take lightly, and I am grateful for the trust Kansans have once again placed in me. I remain grateful to you for our discussions and your insight on the many issues our country faces as we enter 2023.

Continue reading U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter →

Government

Sen. Marshall Defends Kansas Way of Life in Second Year

January 4, 2023 Submitted Story Leave a comment

(Washington, D.C., January 3, 2023) – Exactly two years ago today, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. was sworn in to represent Kansas in the U.S. Senate. He’s been hard at work fighting to defend our Kansas values and way of life. From completing the 105 town hall listening tour across every county in Kansas to putting a stop to Joe Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate for our military, to visiting Kansans deployed in Germany, and more, Senator Marshall and our team accomplished a great deal in his second year in office.

“As I traveled across each of Kansas’ 105 counties this past year, I heard loud and clear that I was sent to D.C. to fight for the people of Kansas, for all Americans, but more than anyone else, I was sent here to fight for our children and grandchildren. It’s a great honor, and a greater responsibility as this Senate seat belongs to the citizens, past and present, of Kansas,” said Senator Marshall. “I came to Washington to make a difference, not just a point. While we face many challenges ahead as a nation given the failed policies of this Administration, I will never stop fighting for our Kansas values and our way of life.”

Being Responsive and Solving Issues Kansans have with the Federal Government:

In November of 2022, Senator Marshall completed his goal to hold 105 public town hall meetings in each of Kansas’ 105 counties. You may click HERE or on the image below to watch a highlight video from his 105 town hall meetings.

Additionally, Senator Marshall’s office conducted remote office hours in 10 different communities, providing direct access to his office for Kansans who live more than an hour away from one of the Senator’s offices. Furthermore, Senator Marshall provided resources and technical assistance to business and community leaders in all 105 counties, and wrote more than 50 letters of support to accompany federal grant applications from Kansas communities and organizations. The Senator also helped Kansans from 95 different communities interact with federal agencies on over 1,500 cases dealing with federal government issues. In 2022, dedicated members of Senator Marshall’s staff proudly assisted 143 veterans, 187 Kansans with IRS issues, 119 seniors with social security matters, along with 110 passport hurdles. The Senator’s office has an 85% favorability rating in our efforts helping Kansans.

Additionally, the Senator communicated with Kansans more than 225,000 times through the office’s robust mail program and launched a new website to better serve Kansans. The new website features several easy-to-navigate icons for Kansans to choose from when seeking assistance from Senator Marshall’s office. As part of the assistance, Senator Marshall launched an email address in February to help Americans seeking assistance exiting Ukraine.

In September, Senator Marshall and Olathe Police Department Chief Mike Butaud joined forces to nominate Olathe East High School School Resource Officer Erik Clark for the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor. The nomination came after Officer Clark displayed heroic actions to protect students and teachers from an active shooter at Olathe East High School on March 4, 2022. Be sure to click HERE or on the image below to read Senator Marshall’s nomination letter.

Fighting to Put a Stop to Joe Biden’s COVID Mandates:

Senator Marshall not once, but twice, was able to pass a Resolution to terminate the COVID-19 emergency declaration. The resolution was in response to the abuse of supersized executive emergency powers being deployed by the Biden administration to justify their student loan relief and out of control spending, among other things.

Senator Marshall’s resolution to overturn the CMS vaccine mandate for health care providers passed the Senate in March. The resolution was in response to concerns from Kansan health care providers, especially those serving in skilled nursing facilities and rural hospitals, as it would greatly impact access to care.

Additionally, Senator Marshall helped secure a major win as part of his longstanding effort to protect American servicemembers from Joe Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Thanks to steadfast advocacy by Senator Marshall during his first two years in the Senate, the 2023 NDAA – legislation critical to American military preparedness – included a provision that halts the Department of Defense from forcing servicemembers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

In September, Senator Marshall was honored as a 2022 Lee Greenwood Patriot Award recipient during a ceremony at the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. The award recognizes leaders who support America’s veterans and military.

Fighting to Keep Kansans Safe and Secure:

Senator Marshall has been leading the fight in the Senate to protect our communities from the scourge of fentanyl. In September, he introduced the Drug Cartel Terrorist Designation Act, legislation to formally designate drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations. As these cartels continue to invade our porous southern border with illicit guns and drugs that are killing hundreds of Americans each day, this designation is needed to ramp up efforts to combat them.

Senator Marshall also led the HALT Fentanyl Act, which would permanently give law enforcement the tools to help combat the fentanyl crisis by placing fentanyl-related substances as a class into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act.

Most recently, he introduced the Cooper Davis Act, named after a young Kansas teen who lost his life from fentanyl poisoning. The legislation, which Senator Marshall worked with Cooper’s mom Libby Davis on, is cosponsored by Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and requires social media companies and other communication service providers to take on a more active role in working with federal agencies to combat the illegal sale and distribution of drugs on their platforms. Be sure to click HERE or on the image below to watch a highlight video of Senator Marshall and Libby’s efforts on the Cooper Davis Act.

Additionally, Senator Marshall led five Kansas sheriffs to the Southern border amid the pending expiration of Title 42 and the growing fentanyl crisis that is wreaking havoc in Kansas and across the nation. You may click HERE or on the image below for a highlight video of their trip.

On the trip, Senator Marshall provided medical assistance to a migrant suffering from heat exhaustion. He would later go on to receive recognition from Shawnee Sheriff Brian Hill in acknowledgement of service above and beyond the call of duty for actions he took during the trip. You may click HERE or on the image below to watch the dramatic video.

Senator Marshall introduced the Safe Schools Act, legislation to allow COVID relief dollars to be used by schools on physical security measures, such as locks, panic buttons, individual room security systems, video surveillance, and hiring and paying the salaries of armed school resource officers. The bill was endorsed by Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, ZeroEyes, the Door and Hardware Institute, the Security Industry Association, as well as Kansas Rep. Kristey Williams and Kansas Sen. Renee Erickson.

Fighting to Lower Kansas Energy Prices:

Senator Marshall introduced the Gas Prices Relief Act which gives producers some certainty by blocking any new regulation from taking effect for at least a year or until gas prices dropped. He also fought off numerous attempts at fake permitting reform, which would have federalized the citing of transmission lines allowing them to shift more costs to hardworking Kansans. And, he led the charge in calling for a complete ban on imports of Russian oil and introduced numerous pieces of legislation to force the Biden Administration to fully enforce Russian energy sanctions.

Fighting for Small Businesses and to Lower Inflation:

Convenience stores, gas stations and other small businesses in Kansas are being taken advantage of by Visa and MasterCard on behalf of big banks in New York City at a time when they, and the communities they serve, are grappling with crippling inflation and staring down the barrel of a looming recession. In response, Senator Marshall partnered with Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) on the bipartisan Credit Card Competition Act to enhance competition and choice in the credit card network market, which is currently dominated by the Visa-Mastercard duopoly. The bill would direct the Federal Reserve to ensure that giant credit card-issuing banks offer a choice of at least two networks over which an electronic credit transaction may be processed. 1,700 companies and 200 trade associations announced support for the legislation. Be sure to click HERE or on the image below to watch the WSJ explain the issue of credit card swipe fees and what Senators Marshall and Durbin are doing about it.

Senator Marshall introduced legislation with Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) that helps small businesses hire new employees and supports aspiring entrepreneurs. Specifically, the bill directs Small Business Development Centers and Women Business Centers to assist small businesses in hiring career and technical education program graduates. The bill also gives CTE graduates access to resources that are useful for starting a small business.

In October, after previously completing four minority business roundtables across the state, Senator Marshall hosted Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman in the Kansas City metro area for a series of small business visits. Following a roundtable discussion at El Centro with local business leaders, Senator Marshall and Administrator Guzman toured Mark One Electric and CJ Industries.

Fighting for Kansas Values and our Heroes:

Senator Marshall served as Ranking Member for a U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) hearing on abortion laws following the U.S. Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade and returning the issue of abortion to state governments. Having delivered more than 5,000 babies as an OBGYN for over 25 years, Senator Marshall dispelled pro-abortion lies about treating ectopic pregnancies and miscarriage care. He also highlighted the life-affirming maternal and infant health care pregnancy resource centers provide at no cost for women experiencing unplanned pregnancies.

When it comes to protecting Kansans’ 2nd Amendment rights from the ATF’s proposed registry for firearms with stabilizing braces, Senator Marshall introduced the SHORT Act. The bill removes the unconstitutional taxation, registration, and regulation of firearms such as Short Barreled Rifles, Short Barreled Shotguns, and Any Other Weapons.

Following passage of Joe Biden’s partisan Inflation Reduction Act, which gave the IRS nearly $80 billion in additional and unneeded funding to hire additional agents and auditors, Senator Marshall introduced legislation to ensure the IRS can’t harass law abiding citizens. The Preventing Frivolous Actions by IRS Agents Act compensates American citizens who were incorrectly subjected to failed IRS audits or legal actions. For any civil or criminal proceedings in which a taxpayer wins in court, they would be compensated for attorney’s fees, court costs and other expenses related to the taxpayer’s defense.

As the son and brother of a veteran, the father of a soldier, and veteran himself, Senator Marshall hosted veterans’ town halls in multiple cities, and made in-person visits to VA facilities throughout Kansas. Senator Marshall proudly voted for the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act and PACT Act, and he cosponsored legislation to expand education opportunities, improve access to mental and physical health care, and fund housing for veterans. You may click HERE to read more about Senator Marshall’s support for our veterans and military.

In March shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, Senator Marshall visited Germany and Poland to encourage troops from Fort Riley.

Additionally, Senator Marshall helped kick start the statue unveiling of Amelia Earhart during a ceremony in the U.S. Capitol. After waiting more than 20 years, Amelia Earhart’s statue replaced fellow Atchison native and former U.S. Senator John Ingalls as a part of the renowned collection of statues in the U.S. Capitol. She joined President Dwight D. Eisenhower, our 34th President and Abilene native, as one of Kansas’ tribute statues.

Fighting For Kansas Farmers and Ranchers:

Senator Marshall launched a video series titled: Ag Talk with Doc, in which he sits down with various leaders in agriculture for discussions on the latest news affecting America’s farmers, ranchers, and producers. For the first episode, Senator Marshall sat down with former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue at the American Farm Bureau Convention. He has since released episodes with former Senator Pat Roberts, former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall, and more.

Senator Marshall’s Ocean Shipping Reform Act was signed was into law. The legislation improves efficiency in our broken supply chains by prohibiting ocean carriers from unreasonably refusing cargo space accommodations for U.S. exports and from discriminating against U.S. exporters.

Additionally the Senator led the fight to decrease fertilizer prices including the introduction of the Emergency Relief From Duties Act, a bill aimed at creating emergency waivers for duties leveed on fertilizers by the U.S. International Trade Commission. He also introduced the Fertilizer SUSTAIN Act to strengthen our domestic fertilizer industry and ensure that American growers have access to the crop nutrients they need to grow the food that is relied upon by the United States and nations around the world.

Senator Marshall has also led the fight calling on the Administration to abandon its war on necessary crop chemicals including the introduction of the EPA Transparency for Agriculture Products Act, a comprehensive bill to prevent the EPA from overregulating essential pesticides that the ag industry heavily depends upon.

In April, Senator Marshall hosted an event discussing the war in Ukraine and what it means for global food security. Senator Marshall was joined by Senator Joni Ernst (IA) as well as Ukrainian Civil Society leaders Dr. Hanna Hopko, Daria Kaleniuk, and Maria Berlinska. You may click HERE or on the image below for a highlight video of the event.

Fighting for Better and Affordable Healthcare for Kansans:

In May, President Biden signed into law Senator Marshall’s bipartisan, bicameral legislation to improve access to infant formula families who participate in the WIC program. Senator Marshall is one of the leading Members of Congress to hold the Biden Administration accountable having led letters on the issue and questioning the FDA Commissioner.

Fighting to get to the Bottom of the Origins of COVID-19:

Throughout 2022, Senator Marshall continued his investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic because Kansans deserve to know what happened so that future outbreaks can be better mitigated, detected, and managed. In an interview hosted by the Hudson Institute, a bipartisan think tank, Senator Marshall discussed his work on this issue extensively with David Asher, who led the State Department’s COVID-19 origins investigation for the Trump Administration. You may click HERE or on the image below to watch the interview.

Cornerstones of Senator Marshall’s investigation includes his leadership of Federal government policy reforms to U.S.-sponsored viral Gain-of-Function (GoF) research while pressing to hold federal public health officials accountable for the cover-ups of their contributions to this dangerous research with pandemic potential. Viral GoF research genetically manipulates a virus and to alter its transmissibility and infectiousness, which can cause the virus to be resistant to immune responses or vaccines.

In August during a U.S. Senate hearing, Senator Marshall further raised the alarm on the dangers of viral GoF research projects, especially those conducted in China, He also highlighted Dr. Anthony Fauci’s efforts to offshore viral GoF research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to China through EcoHealth Alliance, a nonprofit organization that passed its grant awards to Chinese researchers, including those at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Expert witnesses testified this viral GoF research technique provides no benefit to public health and instead can transform a virus into a bioweapon. You may click HERE or on the image below to watch Senator Marshall’s full remarks during the hearing.

Senator Marshall made repeated attempts to put a stop to the U.S. federal government’s involvement in GoF research. He sought unanimous consent on the Senator floor to pass his Viral Gain of Function Research Moratorium Act and SAFE Risky Research Act, two bills that would have limited GoF research sponsored by the American government. Both bills were blocked by Senate Democrats. Additionally, in a letter to the White House on November 22, Senator Marshall demanded that the federal government implement a government-wide ban on all ongoing and new viral GoF and Dual Use Research of Concern studies in the life sciences involving all enhanced pathogens of pandemic potential due to the current lack of research oversight, clear guidelines, and potential risks of outbreaks from laboratory accidents.

When the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) refused to cooperate with the Senator’s investigative records requests, Senator Marshall used a mechanism available to him in the Senate to hold White House nominations until USAID produced records and as a result, the Senator has been receiving documents directly relevant to the U.S. funding of risky research in China that could have led to the COVID-19 outbreak. Based on evaluation of information obtained in the USAID records, numerous Senators joined Senator Marshall’s request to USAID to suspend ongoing grant awards to EcoHealth Alliance, the nonprofit organization that also received NIH grants and failed to produce evidence of the risky bat coronavirus research they conducted in China that could have caused the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2022, Senator Marshall pressed Dr. Fauci for transparency in his financial income records when Dr. Fauci’s failed to disclose them despite requirements. As a result, Dr. Fauci produced previously unpublished documents about his finances that revealed up to $1 million in royalties paid to him from a medical book publishing company in a potential financial conflict of interest with his public health leadership role. As a result of this discovery, Senator Marshall later introduced the Financial Accountability for Uniquely Compensated Individuals (FAUCI) Act, which requires the public access of financial disclosures on the official Office of Government Ethics (OGE) website for administration officials like Dr. Fauci. Senator Marshall’s oversight efforts continued when Dr. Fauci announced his retirement and the Senator notified the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services of its responsibility to maintain all documentation, including Dr. Fauci’s emails and other records.

Senator Marshall penned several Op-eds last year:

FOX News: Biden admin needs Warp Speed for COVID therapeutics

Agri-Pulse: Why high fertilizer prices on the farm could hit consumers on their forks

Daily Caller: Health Officials And The Media Have Whipped Americans Into An Unhealthy Fear Of COVID

Washington Examiner: Email trail shows how Anthony Fauci and Francis Collins distorted public views on COVID

Topeka Capital Journal: Biden administration must take action to target out-of-control inflation that is hurting Kansans

Kansas City Star/Wichita Eagle: Russian chaos in Ukraine hurts world supplies of wheat, corn and more

FOX News: Ukrainians can win this war. But, the world has to step up

FOX News: Inflation Makes Americans Sicker

Washington Times: Will U.S. or China hold keys to the 2nd nuclear era?

Topeka Capital Journal: Twenty-five years delivering babies informs decision to support Kansas constitutional amendment

FOX News: Ignore myths from left on ectopic pregnancy, more. Here are the facts