Category Archives: Government

Fort Scott National Historic Site, Government, Kansas

Over 200 Will Receive Citizenship in Fort Scott on Friday September 20

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 New citizens during the naturalization ceremony in 2015.

Fort Scott National Historic Site is hosting the U.S. Federal Court proceeding by the U.S. District Court, Kansas District, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on Friday, September 20 at 10:30 a.m.

“The park hosts the proceedings by providing the venue, and, working with the community and state, offers added value to the new citizens, their families, and the community,” said Carl Brenner, Program Manager for Interpretation and Resource Management
Fort Scott National Historic Site (www.nps.gov/fosc.)

 

Carl Brenner, Program Manager for Interpretation and Resource Management
Fort Scott National Historic Site.

“This includes snacks for the naturalizing citizens before the ceremony, a beautiful and historic setting for the event, information about the community and its businesses, and the opportunity to fulfill the civic duty by registering to vote.” he said. “There are also a series of clubs, organizations, and state and local groups helping to make this happen (it takes a village). The Kansas Secretary of State’s office will have a representative here to register voters, new citizens or otherwise.”

What does one have to do to become a citizen?

“Section 312 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) requires naturalization applicants to demonstrate an understanding of the English language, including an ability to read, write, and speak words in ordinary usage in the English language, and demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government (civics). To meet the requirements of Section 312 of the INA, applicants must pass a naturalization test to become U.S. citizens. The naturalization test consists of two components: an English language and a civics component. The English language component tests applicants on their ability to speak, read, write, and understand the English language. Applicants who fail one or both test components will have a second opportunity to pass both portions of the test, called a re-exam.  More info at www.uscis.gov/citizenship We have been running some of the questions on our Facebook page this week.”

Today’s questions on its Facebook page:

Wednesday’s Questions:
 Who does a U.S. Senator represent?
What is one reason colonists came to America?
 If both the President and the Vice President can no longer serve, who becomes President?

www.facebook.com/FortScottNPS

www.instagram.com/FortScottNPS

http://twitter.com/FortScottNPS

Jane Njeri Lifer smiles following the naturalization ceremony in 2017. In her hand is the certificate of naturalization.

The Ceremony

“Check-in begins at 9 a.m., and the ceremony begins at 10:30. Fort Scott VFW Post 1165, Olson-Frary-Burkhart Post, will be the Color Guard. Musical performances from the Fort Scott High School Orchestra, with welcoming remarks by Fort Scott National Historic Site Superintendent Jill Jaworski and Fort Scott City Manager Brad Matkin. A keynote address will be made by Angela Bates, founder, past president, and current executive director of the Nicodemus Historical Society and Museum,” he said.

Jill Jaworski, Fort Scott National Historic Site Superintendent. Submitted photo.
Brad Matkin, Fort Scott City Manager. Submitted photo.
Angela Bates,  founder, past president, and current executive director of the Nicodemus Historical Society and Museum. Submitted photo.

 

“We are looking at 201 naturalized citizens from 57 different countries. One of the largest ceremonies in the National Park Service,” he said.

Countries represented are  Algeria, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burma, Cameroon, Canada, China, Colombia, Congo (Kinshasa), Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, India, Iran, Iraq, Italy, Jamaica, Kenya, Laos, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sudan, Syria, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, United Kingdom, and Vietnam.

A prior Naturalization Ceremony at Fort Scott National Historic Site. Photo credit NPS.
Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Uniontown City Council Minutes of Sept. 10

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The Regular Council Meeting on September 10, 2024 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 5:30PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Amber Kelly (8:25), Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Interview non-elected personnel –

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to interview applicants of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:00.

 

Open meeting resumed at 7:00.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to interview applicants of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:20.                       

 

Open meeting resumed at 7:20.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

none

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger presented the August 2024 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $300,920.74, Receipts $40,904.00, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $35,763.99, Checking Account Closing Balance $293,284.75. Bank Statement Balance $293,467.13, including Checking Account Interest of $62.89, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $182.38, Reconciled Balance $293,284.75.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $37,595.12, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $21,491.62, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $39,396.79, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $391,768.28. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $467.79, and Utility CDs $1,384.69 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,852.48.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of August 2024, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  August Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500.00 for Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of August $7,635.99, Year-to-Date Net Income $57,8058.55.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $75,850.49 (61.5%), Expenditures $81,944.78 (50.4%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $23,311.82 (63.1%), Expenditures $20,417.78 (48.5%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $92,758.76 (63.3%), Expenditures $74,512.96 (42.0%); General Fund YTD Revenue $151,872.36 (77.6%), Expenditures $127,948.07 (41.3%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $6,120.92 (84.3%), Expenditures $5,668.41 (56.0%).  The September 2024 payables to date in the amount of $31,728.14 were presented.  The invoices from Homestead Tech, KMGA, Rogers and Sons Concrete, Johnson-Schowengerdt, and Ag Engineering have not been received by noon meeting day.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

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

  • Minutes of August 13, 2024 Regular Council Meeting and September 4, 2024 Special Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Reports, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan reported that 405 Hill St had complied and 504 Sherman St’s chickens are still getting out.  They were seen in neighbor’s yard before meeting and pictures were taken for the file.  Superintendent Rich received a report that grass/weeds at the culverts were not being trimmed at 303 2nd St.  Coyan will followup.

 

City Superintendent Rich requested to attend the Pipeline Safety Seminar in Manhattan, October 29-30.

 

Motion by Esslinger, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to allow Bobby Rich to attend the Pipeline Safety Seminar in Manhattan, October 29-30.

 

He also reported that the public water supply inspection by KDHE has been completed.  It is recommended to have the water tank inspected again, since it has been more than five years since last inspection.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to have Bobby Rich schedule an inspection of the water tank

 

Clerk Johnson reported that a major gas leak was found in a home.  Gas has been shut off and plumber contacted by property owner to repair

Johnson asked if council wanted to have the auditor present the 2023 audit or accept as presented on paper.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to accept the 2023 audit as presented on paper

 

Johnson also informed the council that cost of internet service for the SCADA will be going up $20/month and City Hall will be going up $10/month on October 1 billing.  One-call tickets will also be going up $0.13 per ticket effective January 1.  She informed that KSGFOA fall conference is in November and KMU is hosting a City Clerk & Finance Professional Management Academy one day a month for five months beginning October 16.  These could be beneficial training opportunities for her replacement.

A request for records was received pertaining to Winter Storm Uri, she will respond as requested.

A FEMA Exploratory Conference Call is scheduled for September 12, 1PM regarding damages from flooding for disaster DR 4800.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – Thanked Sally, Bobby, Colby, and Old Settlers Committee for all their work for Old Settlers Picnic.  The new city limit signs look nice.

Councilwoman Esslinger – Send a Thank You to Old Settlers Committee.

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilwoman Pemberton – nothing

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – Received complaints about fishing derby being unorganized and car show impeding parade route during Old Settlers Picnic.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Pickleball Court Placemaking Project – a Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting was held September 1.  A press release was sent to The Fort Scott Tribune, Fort Scott Biz, and Healthy Bourbon County Action Team.

 

Streets – Superintendent Rich and Clerk Johnson met with Bill Delich, Bettis Asphalt on September 4 to go over areas requiring warranty work.  The City will need to prep the area on South Washington that needs extended. Rich reports that the tractor is not the correct equipment to dig it out and pack AB3, he will contact a contractor to complete the prep work.  The cracks will be filled with a rubberized liquid material.  Delich recommend using a cold pour crack sealer to seal cracks in the future.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Sale of property – Mayor Jurgensen was approached about selling a portion of city property.  City attorney recommended publishing the intent to sell.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to publish intent to sell city property after a public comment period that will end October 8, 2024

 

Clerk Johnson will consult with attorney on wording for the intent and publish.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss applicants of non-elected personnel position, the open meeting to resume at 9:00

 

Open meeting resumed at 9:00.

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 9:01PM

 

Bourbon County, Government

Amended Agenda For the Bourbon County Commission Meeting at 4:45 p.m. Today

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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

Brandon Whisenhunt

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

 

September 16, 2024 4:45 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(2)
  1. Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 9/9/2024
    2. Approval of August Financials
  2. Susan Walker, CFO-Insurance
  3. 5:30 p.m.-RNR and Budget Public Hearings Begin
  • Public Comments
  • Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  1. Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk-Tri-Valley Agreement
  2. Justin Meeks-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(2)
  3. 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, Housing

Buildings Scheduled for Demolition in Fort Scott: A Long Process

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Downtown Fort Scott, looking north on Main Street, city hall is on the right.

 

On September 3rd, the Fort Scott City Commission voted to demolish several blighted buildings.

The purpose and goal of the Fort Scott Codes Department is to enforce all codes, ordinances, and regulations adopted by the City of Fort Scott to ensure the safety and aesthetic value of all properties and establish a standard of property maintenance, according to the city’s website.

The city has a process to allow extended time for property owners to repair the buildings.

Properties in a state of deterioration are turned into the city by community members for the most part, said Leroy Kruger, who works in the codes department.

This begins a process that starts with a letter to the property owner asking them to repair the house up to city codes and to give the codes department a phone call, within 30 days of receiving the letter.

“If we haven’t heard from them, we send out a condemnation letter,” Kruger said.

“We give 30 more days, if we haven’t heard from them, we turn it over to the city commissioners, and they vote on it,” he said.

“The next step is to advertise (in the Fort Scott Tribune) that we are going to tear it down. Then we have a public meeting,” Kruger said.

“Homeowners or any interested parties get another letter to come and speak to the commission,” he said.

“If no one shows up, the next step is to tear it down.”

“We try to get three bids submitted to the commission (for demolition) and they decide who gets the bid.” he said.

Once torn down to ground level, if the owners want to sell the property, a special assessment fee is given them to recoup the cost of the demolition.

“There’s quite a few blighted properties in Fort Scott,” Kruger said. “We have to stay in a budget for the year. Usually, there are two to three properties at a time.”

At the September 3 Fort Scott City Commission Meeting six properties were submitted.

“If these six go through, we’ve done 10 or 11 properties this year. I think the six have eaten up our budget,” Kruger said.

The codes department office is located in City Hall at 123 S. Main Street and can by reached by calling 620.223.0550.

Norm Nation is the supervisor and lead codes inspector.

 

On September 3rd, the Fort Scott City Commission voted to demolish several buildings. Here are the addresses and photos of the buildings taken from Google Street View.

1721 E. Wall

323 W. Wall

1619 E. Pine

1105 Scott Ave

402 S. Lowman Street

418 Couch St.

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Agenda for September 17

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

September 17, 2024 – 6:00 P.M.

 

  1.     Call to Order
  2.     Roll Call

Tim VanHoecke,   Matthew Wells,   Dyllon Olson,   Kathryn Salsbury,  Tracy Dancer

III.       Pledge of Allegiance

  1. Invocation
  2. Approval of Agenda
  3. Consent Agenda
  4. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1368-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 28, 2024 – September 10, 2024 – $1,023,007.21
  5. Approval of Minutes for September 3, 2024, Regular Meeting and September 9, 2024, Special Meeting.
  6. Request to Pay – Bourbon County Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI) – Invoice No. 0010 FINAL (July, August and September) – $10,000.00
  7. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection – KDOT Project No. 6 KA-6898-01 Project No. 23-015A – Payment No. 4 – Invoice No. 17453 – Payroll – $8,142.58
  8. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection – KDOT Project No. 6 KA-6898-01 Project No. 23-015A – Payment No. 5 – Invoice No. 17538 – Design – $26,490.05
  9. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection – 24-414 Horton St. & 6th Improvements – Invoice No. 17532 – Payroll – $37,510.35
  10. August Financials

 

VII.    Public Comment – Sign up required before the beginning of the meeting on register at the entrance of the Commission Room. Public Comments are for any topic not on the agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.

VIII.     Appearances – Must be scheduled with the City Clerk at least (1) week prior to the meeting             

              you wish to address the Commission. You will be scheduled on the agenda to speak on your topic.

  1. Matthew Wells/Bourbon County Community Theatre – Temporary Park Closure – Riverfront Park – October 26, 2024, 6:00PM – 9:00PM – ‘Voices From The Grave’

 

  1. Kathy Brennon/Executive Director/Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging – Meals on Wheels

 

  1. Unfinished Business
  2. Consideration of Building at 118 E. Wall – Continued from September 9, 2024, Special City Commission Meeting – waiting on requested documents from owner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. New Business

Action Items:

  1. Consideration of Certificate of Appropriateness – 12 N. Main St. – Alteration to Existing Structure – Design Review Board meeting on September 13, 2024.
  2. Consideration to Go Out For Bids for External IT Services
  3. Consideration of Bids for Reinvestment of $1,000,000.00 from Wastewater Fund for six (6)-Month CD – Four (4) bids received: Citizens Bank, City State Bank, Landmark National Bank and UMB Bank.
  4. Consideration of Approval of Certificate of Substantial Completion – Project No. 22-031B – Fort Scott Pavilion – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. and Sprouls Construction, Inc. – Dickman
  5. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. and Sprouls Construction – Project No. 22-031B – Fort Scott Pavilion – Payment Application No. 5 – $8,075.00
  6. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. and Sprouls Construction – Project No. 22-031B – Fort Scott Pavilion – Payment Application No. 6 FINAL (Retainage) – $10,397.85
  7. Request to Schedule a Special Meeting (September 23, 2024) to Consider RFPs for Consultant to Airport Projects within the Next Five (5) Years.

 

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

 

XII.     Adjourn

 

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda For September 16

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Bourbon County Courthouse

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

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

Aug 2024 Financial Reports

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Brandon Whisenhunt

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

 

September 16, 2024 4:45 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(2)
  1. Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 9/9/2024
    2. Approval of August Financials
  2. Susan Walker, CFO-Insurance
  3. 5:30 p.m.-RNR and Budget Public Hearings Begin
  • Public Comments
  • Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk-Tri-Valley Agreement
  1. Justin Meeks-Executive Session KSA 75-4319(b)(2)
  2. Commission Comments
  3. Adjourn Meeting

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

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

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

attorney-client relationship.

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

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

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

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

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

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Government, Kansas

Nominate a Kansas Health Champion

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Kansas Governor’s Council on Wellness 2025 Health Champion Nomination Form

Health Champions Awards Nominations are officially out.  

Please consider nominating:

  1. Yourself
  2. Your Colleague
  3. Your Friend
  4. Your Community Health Worker
  5. A small business is making a big difference (those restaurants and food retailers are the real heroes in getting local produce in their market).
  6. A partner organization that deserves to be awarded

Here is the link!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HKSNRRC

 

Food, Government, Kansas, Youth

KDA Extends Summer Youth Food Program

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DCF Announces Application Deadline Extension for Summer EBT Program

Application deadline is now 5 p.m. on October 15

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is extending the application deadline for the 2024 Summer EBT program, a new federal program designed to help eligible families offset some of the costs of buying food for their school-aged children during the summer.

Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks in other states, is a partnership between DCF, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, and the Kansas Department of Education. The program provides families a one-time installment of $120 per each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries over the summer. Applications will be accepted through the DCF online self-service portal, dcfapp.kees.ks.gov, until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024. Families will need to use their existing account through the DCF self-service portal or create an account to apply.

Since July 2024, about 117,200 students have received the one-time $120 Summer EBT benefit through an auto-issuance, and DCF has received more than 2,000 applications. For families with children receiving food assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and/or foster care benefits, the Summer EBT benefit was automatically added to existing households’ Kansas Benefits Cards (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to the home. DCF estimates there could be more than 100,000 children who did not automatically receive the benefit but may be eligible.

Eligibility:

Children may be eligible for the program if:

  • The child attended a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income met the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point during the 2023-24 school year.

Or

  • the school-aged child (7-17 years old) received food assistance, TANF, and/or foster care benefits at any point during the 2023-24 school year. (Summer EBT benefits were auto-issued to these households in July 2024.)

“While Summer EBT is intended to help offset the cost of food during summer break when kids don’t have access to the free or reduced-price meals they get at school, even with children already back in class the program can still provide families with a little extra help in putting food on their tables,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “We hope that by extending the application deadline, more families with eligible children will have the opportunity to apply for this year’s Summer EBT benefit.”

Application:

Families with children who did not receive the Summer EBT benefit by the end of July 2024 should apply through the online self-service portal, dcfapp.kees.ks.gov. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on Oct. 15, 2024.

Learn more about the Summer EBT program at dcf.ks.gov.

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott City Commission Minutes of Sept. 3

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of September 3, 2024                                                                      Regular Meeting

 

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held September 3, 2024, at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. Meeting available on City of Fort Scott YouTube Channel. Time stamps according to recording.

 

Meeting called to order at 6:00PM. Commissioners Tim VanHoecke, Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells and Kathryn Salsbury were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer.

 

Audience in Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering, Jason Pickert/Police Chief, , Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Devin Tally/City Finance Manager, Ben Hart/Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors, LLC, Jessica Oliphant/Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors, LLC, Garth Herrmann, Esq./Gilmore & Bell, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Cory Bryars, Don Tucker, Jean Tucker, Richard Clark, Dana Davis, Janet Davis, Diane Striler, Colleen Quick, Lindsay Madison, David Lipe, Roger Harris, John Schwartz, Kathy Schwartz, Kevin Allen and Bob Talbot.

 

  1. Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda – (Time stamp 2:49)

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the agenda as presented.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Approval of Consent Agenda – (Time stamp 2:56)

Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1367-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 15, 2024 – August 2024 – $1,831,904.90

 

Approval of Minutes for August 6, 2024, Regular Meeting – August 20, 2024, Regular Meeting.

 

Request to Pay – Earles Engineering, Inc. – Invoice No. 17444 – Project No. 24-414 – Horton St. & 6th St. Improvements – $33,805.45

 

Request to Pay – Heck & Wicker, Inc. – Payment No. 2 – $282,995.42

 

Request to Pay – Olsson – Project #021-06610 Fort Scott KS Rehabilitate Runway and Taxiway – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-021 (Design) AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-023 (Construction) Summary No. 17 – Professional Services rendered through May 4, 2024 – Invoice No. 497880 – $5,735.07

 

 

 

 

Request to Pay – Olsson – Project #021-06610 Fort Scott KS Rehabilitate Runway and Taxiway – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-021 (Design) AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-023 (Construction) Summary No. 18 – Professional Services rendered through June 8, 2024 – Invoice No. 501825-Final – $16,815.60

 

Request to Pay – Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. – Project #021-06610 Fort Scott KS Rehabilitate Runway 18/36 and Taxiways (Asphalt Overlay) – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-023 (Construction) – Invoice No. 4 – Work Completed through May 3, 2024 – $154,949.84

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve all Items A through G in toto for the Consent Agenda.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Cory Bryars – (Time stamp 5:27) – addressed the Commission to remind everyone about the upcoming Fort Fest 24 at Riverfront Park.

 

James Wood/Owner of Holmtown Pub – (Time stamp 7:13) – (Cory Bryars spoke in his absence) – 206 N. National – Temporary Street Closure –September 9, 2024 – 4:00PM to 9:00PM – Pine Street from National to alley Special Event: ‘Straight Outta Clarksdale’.

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve the street closure request. D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Diane Striler – Update on Downtown Ice Rink MOU – (Time stamp 9:49) – appeared before the Commission to present the updated MOU which named the (2) parties of the Memorandum of Understanding to be between the City of Fort Scott and the Fort Scott Area Chamber Committee and the timeline will be from the week of Thanksgiving through the first weekend of January.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve the MOU for the Fort Scott Downtown Seasonal Skating Rink.  M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration to Approve Ordinance No. 3770 – Land Bank Board of Trustees – Appointment – Terms – Dissolution – Tabled from August 20, 2024 – D. Olson

 

 

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve Ordinance No. 3770 reducing the number of board members to five (5).  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Update of 118 E. Wall – (Time stamp 20:58) – L. Kruger addressed the Commission to request a Special Commission Meeting to accommodate the owner of 118 E. Wall. The Special Commission Meeting will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024, 6:00PM at City Hall.

 

A discussion was had regarding the status of the situation, the Commission’s intentions for the meeting and the potential outcome.

 

  1. Famer requested to move Item H up in the agenda.

 

MOTION:  D. Olson moved to amend the agenda and bring Item H and Item K to the next order of business.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 25-2024 – RHID – Housing Needs Resolution – A RESOLUTION MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS AND DETERMINATIONS AS TO THE NEED FOR HOUSING WITHIN THE CITY FOR FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AND SETTING FORTH THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF REAL PROPERTY PROPOSED TO BE DESIGNATED AS ONE OR MORE REINVESTMENT HOUSING INCENTIVE DISTRICTS WITHIN THE CITY–(Time stamp 34:05) – G. Herrmann appeared before the Commission to present the resolution requested for a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District of three (3) tracts of land.

 

Discussion was had about including the second story downtown district and others who have expressed interest in the RHID.

 

MOTION:  D. Olson moved to approve Resolution No. 25-2024 as presented.  T. VanHoecke seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

 

Consideration to research legal requirements and estimated legal costs for the City of Fort Scott to annex southward from the currently southernmost City limits along Jayhawk Road and eastward to envelop the Fort Scott Municipal Airport, Lake Fort Scott, and City-owned land adjacent to Lake Fort Scott – (Time stamp 45:26) – It was explained that this agenda item is intended to research the legal requirements and costs to annex properties, squaring the boundaries of the City, and the potential tax income. No action was to be taken at this meeting.

ACTION:  B. Farmer is directed to research the topic for consideration.

 

Several residents wished to address the Commission regarding annexation.

 

  1. Allen – (Time stamp 50:25) stated that the City needs to address current problems in the City before moving toward annexation.

 

Unidentified Citizen No. 1 – (Time stamp 52:07) – stated the land description for the item should be west/westward and not east/eastward. The correction was accepted by the Mayor.

 

Unidentified Citizen No. 2 – (Time stamp 52:21) – questioned the reason for annexation, agreement that the lake is primarily the drinking water resource and concerns about the lack of enforcement at the lake.

 

Dana Davis – (Time stamp 59:47) – addressed the Commission regarding lost revenue due to lack of boat permit enforcement especially to non-residents.

 

Harold Martin – (Time stamp 1:05:30) – addressed the Commission regarding the dissolution of the Lake Advisory Board and his previous appearances.

 

Consideration of Proposed Change of Zoning Regulations – Article 20: Supplemental District Regulations – Section 7: Accessory Uses – Storage Containers – (Time stamp 1:10:41) – L. Kruger was directed by B. Matkin to research what other cities do regarding the use of Connex boxes due to popularity. He provided the information to the Commission. He stated that the wording of the current zoning regulation needs to be amended in order to enforce the regulation.

 

ACTION:  L. Kruger and B. Matkin were directed to research enforceable ordinances regarding this type of storage with one coming from Kansas City.

 

 

 

  1. Madison – (Time stamp 1:22:48) – asked for clarification regarding this type of storage in the historic district. She is concerned about the ones she currently sees downtown.

 

  1. Matkin left the meeting (Time stamp 1:24:15)

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 19-2024 – Demolition Proceedings for 1721 E. Wall – (Time stamp 1:22:34)

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 19-2024.

  1. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 20-2024 – Demolition Proceedings for 323 W. Wall – (Time stamp 1:25:56)

 

  1. Matkin returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:26:36).

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 20-2024.  D. Olson seconded the motion. K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke, D. Olson and T. Dancer voted yes.  M. Wells voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 4-1 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 21-2024 – Demolition Proceedings for 1619 E. Pine – (Time stamp 1:27:10)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 21-2024.  D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 22-2024 – Demolition Proceedings for 1105 Scott  (Time stamp 1:28:14)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 22-2024.  D. Olson seconded the motion.  D. Olson, T. VanHoecke, and T. Dancer voted yes.           M. Wells and K. Salsbury voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 3-2 VOTE.

 

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 23-2024 – Demolition Proceedings for 402 S. Lowman (Time stamp 1:29:57)

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 23-2024.  M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 24-2024 – Demolition Proceedings for 418 S. Couch – (Time stamp 1:31:34)

 

MOTION:  D. Olson moved to approve Resolution No. 24-2024.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion. K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke, D. Olson and T. Dancer voted yes.  M. Wells voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 4-1 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Change Order No. 1 – Project No. 22049 Horton St. & 6th St. Improvements – Contract No. 6 U-2455-01 – Heck & Wicker, Inc.-Additional Inlet Protection, Concrete Pipe Encasement, Sanitary Sewer Service, Extra Pothole Work at 8th & Horton, Tree Removal at 7th & Horton– $4,810.00 (Time stamp 1:34:25)- J. Dickman

MOTION:  M. Wells moved to approve Change Order No. 1 for Project No. 6 U-2455-01 for $4,810.00.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Brick Street Policy Revisions Discussion – (Time stamp 1:36:20) – B. Matkin explained that the proposal to concrete the intersections of the brick streets was not in the current policy and would need to be amended if approved.

 

  1. VanHoecke left the meeting (Time stamp 1:36:43)

 

  1. Wells explained the benefit to concreting the intersections and how it would be completed.

 

  1. VanHoecke returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:38:08)

 

Further discussion was had about the proposed amendment to the policy.

 

 

 

(Time stamp 1:45:11) – B. Talbott was recognized to address the Commission to suggest an aerator for the rearing pond at the lake to conserve water.

 

ACTION:  B. Matkin will provide the list of questionable intersections for the Commission’s consideration.  M. Wells stated that according to Item B of Amendment No. 1 of the Brick Street Policy, the intersection is allowed if it is deemed necessary.

Public Hearing:  2025 Budget Hearing

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing at 7:50PM (Time stamp 1:50:50). M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 26-2024 – A RESOLUTION TO EXCEED THE REVENUE NEUTRAL RATE – Discussion was had regarding the decision.

 

There were no public comments.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing at 8:09PM (Time stamp 2:09:15).  D. Olson seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

  1. Wells left the meeting at Time stamp 2:11:23 and returned at 2:12:44.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to approve Resolution No. 26-2024 – A Resolution to Exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate at 44.208 mills.  K. Salsbury seconded the motion. K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes.  M. Wells and D. Olson voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 3-2 VOTE.

 

  1. Farmer left the meeting at Time stamp 2:19:58 and returned at 2:22:12

 

PUBLIC HEARING:  Consideration to Adopt the 2025 Budget – B. Hart

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing at 8:23PM (Time stamp 2:23:16). M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

 

There were no public comments.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing at 8:24PM (Time stamp 2:24:50). M. Wells seconded the motion.  All voted yes.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.

 

MOTION:  T. VanHoecke moved to adopt the 2025 Budget as presented by Baker Tilly (Time stamp 2:2510). K. Salsbury seconded the motion.

  1. VanHoecke, K. Salsbury, and T. Dancer voted yes. M. Wells and D. Olson voted no.

 

MOTION PASSED BY 3-2 VOTE.

 

City Manager Comments – (Time stamp 2:26:19)

  • Memorial Hall repairs
  • IT Support options
  • Dispatch concerns
  • Cape Seal pre-construction meeting

 

Engineering Comments – (Time stamp 2:32:17)

  • Horton Street Project update
  • CCLIP next phase

 

Commissioners Comments

  1. Wells – (Time stamp 2:34:35) – Budget comments

 

  1. VanHoecke – (Time stamp 2:36:26) – Budget comments

 

  1. Olson – (Time stamp 2:38:44) – No comment

 

  1. Salsbury – (Time stamp 2:38:46) – Budget comments, lake lot encroachments

 

  1. Dancer – (Time stamp 2:44:57) – Meeting take aways and suggestions for future discussions for Commission.

 

Special Meeting set for Monday, September 9, 2024, at 6:00PM for the purpose of discussing 118 E. Wall Street building status.

 

 

 

 

 

City Attorney Comments – (Time stamp 2:50:14) – No comment

 

MOTION: – T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:50PM – (Time stamp 2:50:43) – D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.

 

SEPTEMBER 3, 2024, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:50PM.

 

 

 

 

NEXT MEETING:  MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2024, 6:00PM AT CITY HALL

 

_______________________________________________________________________

Submitted by:

Lisa A. Lewis