Category Archives: Government

Bourbon County, Government, Health Care

Avian Influenza “Bird Flu” in Kansas

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Rebecca Johnson, SEKMCHD Director.

Note from the Local Health Officer Rebecca Johnson BSN, RN

SEK Multi-County Health Department

524 S. Lowman, Ft. Scott, KS 66701

P(620)223-4464 F(620)223-1686

[email protected]

 

Avian Influenza “Bird Flu”

1/13/2023

As egg prices are skyrocketing and it may be costing you more to eat out, you may be asking yourself why all of this is happening, if you haven’t turned on the news much lately. Well, Avian Influenza is much of the cause, or otherwise known as the “bird flu”. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has continued to be detected in new locations nationwide, including new counties in Kansas.

This viral disease appears to be spread by the migration of wild birds which puts Kansas’ domestic birds at risk. HPAI causes severe disease and high mortality in infected poultry and is a concern for the possibility of being transmitted to humans who are exposed.

Infected birds shed the bird flu virus through their saliva, mucous and feces. Though rare, human infections with bird flu viruses can happen when “enough” virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose, mouth, or is inhaled. Transmission can happen through air (droplets, dust) and in inhaled, or when a person touches something that has the virus on it then touches their mouth, eyes, or nose. Most human infections with bird flu have occurred after unprotected contact with infected birds or surfaces contaminated with bird flu viruses.

I am probably getting an eyeroll right now from any hunters that might be reading this, but the CDC recommends whenever possible, avoiding contact with wild birds because they may not appear to be sick. You should avoid unprotected contact with domestic birds (poultry) that are sick or who’ve died. Do not touch surfaces contaminated with saliva, mucous or feces from wild/domestic birds. If you do or you must encounter birds (such as occupational exposure, hunters, bird owners, hobby flocks) take these precautions to prevent infection:

  • Wear protective equipment such as gloves, respirators, -or well-fitting masks, and eye protection.
  • Avoid touching your face!
  • Wash your hands with soap and water after touching birds and surfaces birds inhabit or frequent.

I recommend the seasonal flu shot as well, though it will not prevent infection with bird flu viruses, it can help reduce the risk of getting sick with human and bird flu viruses at the same time. It’s not too late to get a flu shot. We have them available at any of our 4 offices. Allen County: (620)365-2191, Anderson County: (785)448-6559, Bourbon County: (620)223-4464, or Woodson County: (620)625-2484.

See these helpful links for more information:

https://agriculture.ks.gov/divisions-programs/division-of-animal-health/animal-diseases/avian-influenza

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/index.htm

Thank you,

Rebecca Johnson BSN, RN

SEKMCHD Administrator/SEK Local Health Officer

Reference: Centers for Disease Control, Kansas Department of Agriculture

Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Announces Fiscal Year 2024 Budget

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~~Budget Is Balanced, Responsibly Cuts Taxes, Fully Funds Schools~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced her annual budget, outlining her common-sense, fiscally responsible plan to provide tax relief for Kansans, fully fund schools for the fifth year in a row, and make one-time investments that will pay off debts and expand healthcare.

“My budget reflects my plan to responsibly cut taxes, continue growing our economy, fully fund education, and strengthen our infrastructure and workforce,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “We’re building a better Kansas for working families and retirees — all while maintaining a balanced budget.”

The budget:

  • Provides responsible tax relief: Governor Kelly’s “Axing Your Taxes” plan will save Kansans more than $500 million in tax cuts over the next three years. The plan includes a proposal to completely axe the state sales tax on groceries, diapers, and feminine hygiene products by April 1, 2023. The second proposal adds a four-day back-to-school sales tax holiday, and the third increases the exemption on Social Security income tax to provide tax relief for retirees.

“Let’s pass tax cuts that we can afford and help working families and seniors – while allowing us to continue the progress we’ve made on education,” said Governor Kelly.

  • Fully funds schools for the fifth year in a row: The Governor’s budget fully funds K-12 schools for the fifth consecutive year and puts Kansas on the path to fully fund special education. The budget also invests nearly $110 million in higher education, allowing schools to continue the recent trend of low-to-no tuition increases and expand financial aid.

“The special education funding gap impacts every student because schools end up diverting funds away from other areas to provide these services,” said Governor Kelly. “I fully recognize that Congress hasn’t done its part to deliver the federal funding it promised for special education services, and I’ll continue to work with our congressional delegation to push the federal government to hold up it is end of the bargain. But in the meantime, Kansas families need solutions.”

  • Prepares Kansas for the future: The Governor’s budget adds $500 million to the Rainy Day Fund, putting the balance at $1.5 billion. When Governor Kelly first came into office, the Rainy Day Fund was empty. Now Kansas is in a much better position to weather future storms.
  • Invests in stronger infrastructure: The Governor’s Budget keeps the ‘Bank of KDOT’ closed for the second year in a row and adds $220 million to the state’s “Infrastructure Leveraging Fund” so that local communities can have the state and local matching funds they need to access federal funding for transportation, broadband, and water infrastructure upgrades.
  • Saves taxpayers money by paying off debt: By paying off the remaining $53 million for reservoir debts at Milford and Perry Lakes, Governor Kelly’s budget will save taxpayers nearly $30 million in future interest payments. The budget also pays in cash for the state’s share of the proposed new veterans home in Topeka – saving close to $10 million in interest.
  • Invests in Kansas workers: The Governor’s budget ramps up funding for the recently formed Office of Registered Apprenticeship and invests in a college internship program to encourage the next generation of Kansans to stay in the state post-graduation.

“As Kansas aims to continue shattering economic records, there’s one thing in our way: There aren’t enough skilled workers for all the jobs we’re creating. Our labor shortages are driving up prices and stunting our economic growth,” said Governor Kelly. “These investments will help create a strong pipeline of talent that has abundant educational and economic opportunities right here at home.”

  • Continues to repair Kansas’ foster care system: The Governor’s budget invests over $5 million to increase placement rates for foster homes and support foster kids transitioning to adulthood.
  • Expands mental and physical healthcare and saves Kansas hospitals: The Governor’s budget directs over $12 million to the current KanCare program to eliminate disparities in service for KanCare program recipients, enhances the ability to secure providers, and expands network capacity. The budget also shows why Kansas must expand Medicaid. Kansas will receive an estimated $370-$450 million in additional federal funding over the next two years when we expand Medicaid – which would cover the state’s share of expansion for eight years.

“By far, the most impactful thing we could do to improve Kansans’ health, keep our healthcare workers, and save rural hospitals is expand Medicaid and draw down billions of dollars – our own tax dollars – waiting for us in Washington, D.C.,” said Governor Kelly.

  • Increases state employee pay by 5%: The Governor’s budget works to recruit and retain state workers by increasing pay and maintaining the Career Progression Plan for Kansas Highway Patrol officers that was provided in last year’s budget.
  • Makes investments in housing and childcare: The Governor’s budget invests in early childhood education and care, giving local communities the ability to implement solutions tailored to their needs. It also provides $20 million to the Housing Revolving Loan Program to help expand housing stock across the state, especially in rural Kansas.
  • Invests in IT infrastructure and cybersecurity: The Governor’s budget works to modernize and protect IT systems across state government and provide additional IT support and cybersecurity measures at state agencies.

View the Governor’s full budget recommendations here.

Government, Kansas

Governor Establishes Early Childhood Transition Task Force

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Governor Kelly Signs First Executive Order of Second Term to Improve Early
Childhood Development

~~Establishes Task Force to Develop a Plan for a New Early Childhood-Focused State Agency~~ 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today signed the first executive order of her second term, Executive Order 23-01, to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. The Task Force is charged with reviewing Kansas’ early childhood programs and developing a roadmap for the creation of a new state, cabinet-level agency focused solely on supporting the success of our youngest Kansans.

“Yesterday, I laid out a vision for my next four years, to make Kansas the best place in America to raise a family. Today we are taking a significant step forward in pursuit of that goal,” Governor Kelly said. “Giving Kansas kids the strongest start to life is the best possible investment we can make. This task force will determine how to make that investment most effectively.”

The task force will analyze the current early childhood system and how it is financed – focusing on gaps, inefficiencies, and redundancies. It will also conduct a series of stakeholder engagement opportunities and draft a transition plan for the new agency.

The task force will build on the Kelly Administration’s first term efforts around early childhood, which include investing more than $270 million to support child care providers and increasing access to reliable, affordable child care.

The task force will include representatives from state government, the private sector, philanthropic organizations, early childhood service providers, and advocacy organizations. Governor Kelly will also invite members of the Kansas Senate and the Kansas House of Representatives to be members of the task force.

The complete text of Executive Order #23-01 can be found here.

What they’re saying: 

“Early childhood care and education is the cornerstone for a child’s well-being,” Secretary of the Department for Children and Families Laura Howard said. “I am excited to embark on this journey of collaboration, under the steady leadership of Governor Kelly, as we work to move early childhood policy forward to address the needs of Kansas families.”

“I applaud the Governor for having the vision to create this task force,” Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Janet Stanek said. “I look forward to collaborating with policy experts and others to align on early childhood policy development within a future agency that will bring greater efficiencies and eliminate structural barriers for families, communities, and businesses.”

“The work of this new task force represents a commitment to the transformational change needed to create an early childhood care and education system that works for all Kansas families,” Melissa Rooker, executive director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, said. “The pandemic revealed the challenges in our current system, and we are excited to go to work developing an action plan to address barriers, gaps, and opportunities to serve our youngest Kansans more effectively.”

“Governor Kelly is a champion for Kansas children who understands that high-quality early learning opportunities and family support programs are among the best investments we can make as a state,” John Wilson, President of Kansas Action for Children, said. “The best policies and proposals are those that have been shaped by diverse stakeholders, which is why I am excited for the work of this task force. It will build upon the strong, collaborative work that’s been happening across state agencies to improve the health and well-being of children and families.”

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

U234 Board of Education News Release

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BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, January 9, 2023

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, January 9, 2023, for their regular monthly meeting at the board office.

 

President Danny Brown opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:

  • Minutes from December 12, 2022, Board of Education meeting
  • Financials – Cash Flow Report
  • Check Register
  • Payroll – December 16, 2022 – $1,571,721.90
  • Activity Fund accounts
  • Second Semester Enrollment Count Report
  • Board Policy Additions/Changes
  • Resolution 22-10 – To Establish Election of School Board Officers
  • Resolution 22-11 – To Establish Regular Meeting Dates

 

Shelly  Charter, Winfield Scott Elementary principal, introduced two students from Winfield Scott. The first student recognized was Sadie Keylon who demonstrates mindfulness by being polite and helpful to friends.  The second student was Megan Hunsaker who demonstrates mindfulness by being humble and leadership through leading by example.  Megan was selected by Peerless Products to have a paint chip named after her.

 

Licensed Tiger Team Member – Superintendent Destry Brown recognized Allison Gorman as the Licensed Tiger Team Member of the Month.

  • Miss Gorman is a 7th grade math teacher at Fort Scott Middle School. She displays on a daily basis the excellence of teaching in our classrooms.  She encourages students, teaches from the beginning of class to the end, and her students know they can be successful in her class.  Miss Gorman has been with the district for 12 years.

 

Classified Tiger Team Members – Superintendent Destry Brown recognized Shawn O’Brien and Alisha Watkins as the Classified Tiger Team Members of the Month.

  • O’Brien is the payroll clerk for the district along with other payroll duties, helps employees upon hire, and schedules orientations. He also is active in the community with volunteering, as well as supporting our kids at school events.   Mr. O’Brien has been with the district 3 years.
  • Watkins is a custodian at both the board office and the middle school, and also fills in around the district when help is needed. She is always willing to do what can to help, fixes things without having to be asked, and responds in a positive manner.  Mrs. Watkins has been with the district for 3 years.

 

Superintendent Brown reported to the board that 98 students were enrolled in 166 courses with Fort Scott Community College for dual credit while attending high school.  Mr. Brown presented a preliminary 2023-24 calendar for the board to review based upon the feedback he received from parents and staff.

 

Dalaina Smith, Assistant Superintendent, provided an update to the board on professional development, PLC conversations, and results of those conversations.  For example, the anticipation is that by this summer, the district will have standards published by grade level that would show parents what their students(s) should learn each school year.  Mrs. Smith also provided an update on resource adoptions, resources needed in reading, and assessments.

 

Gina Shelton, Finance Director, updated the board on the ESSER III application, the state audit, and salary schedule column advancement.

 

The board received an update from Superintendent Brown on the expansion of the Fort Scott Preschool Center to Woodland Hills Blvd.  Mr. Brown presentation included information on why preschool should be expanded in the USD 234 school district and what that expansion would look like.  There was discussion of funding, contracts, and alternative options.  There was no action taken.

 

The board approved the following items:

  • Communications Investment Proposal with Trajectory Strategies, in the amount of $15,660
  • FSHS Course Additions for the 2023-24 school year
  • Revised Classified Pay Schedule to amend the Activity Driver Pay
  • Personnel Report – following

 

The board tabled a proposal for architectural and engineering design services for the preschool from h|d Architecture, LLC until more information was received.  There was also discussion on a school district attorney.

 

The board went into an executive session for personnel matters.

 

President Danny Brown adjourned the meeting.

 

 

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED EMPLOYMENT

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

  • Michelle Martin – Retirement – FSHS Special Education teacher, effective at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Carol Bingesser – Retirement – FSMS Science teacher, effective at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Kelly Cox – Retirement – Winfield Scott Kindergarten teacher, effective at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Cristin Stark – Resignation – Winfield Scott Kindergarten teacher, effective at the end of the 2022-23 school year
  • Trent Johnson – Resignation – FSHS Agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor, effective December 19, 2022
  • Mark Gorman – Leave of Absence – Bus Driver
  • Connie Billionis – Leave of Absence – Deputy Clerk
  • Sarah Hendricks – Leave of Absence – Eugene Ware fourth grade teacher

EMPLOYMENT/REASSIGNMENTS – FOR THE 2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR

  • Tonya Barnes – Special Education Director for the 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26 school years
  • Kyle Parks – Daily rate for the remainder of the semester as a FSHS Agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor
  • Judy Welch – Regular Route Bus Driver (4-hours)
  • Chelsea Killion – Winfield Scott 7.5-hour paraprofessional
  • Jana Walker – Winfield Scott 7.5-hour paraprofessional
  • Julius Hodges – Winfield Scott 7.5-hour paraprofessional
  • Destry Brown – Superintendent – Contract extension
Fort Scott, Government

Amended Agenda For FS City Commission Meeting for Jan. 10

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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. Approval of Agenda: Amended from original release on 1/6/2023
V. Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of December 20 th, 2022.
B. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1327-A totaling $519,425.14
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.
G. Approval of CMB License For Consumption on the Premises – Debra Cagle DBA Fifthwheel Tavern – 206 N. Humbolt
H. Resolution No. 1-2023 – DESIGNATING THE OFFICIAL CITY NEWSPAPER FOR THE ENSUING TERM OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.
I. Resolution No. 2-2023 – DESIGNATING THE OFFICIAL DEPOSITORIES FOR THE PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS –
(Possibly hold)
J. Resolution No. 3-2023 – EXEMPTION FROM GENERALLY ACCEPTED
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES UNDER K.S.A. 1120

VI. 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)
VII. Public Comment:
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
VIII. Old Business:
A. December financials by Ben Hart
B. Update of progress with Code compliance at 102 S. Horton
C. Lake Dock Locations – Doug Guns
IX. Appearances:
A. Renodry USA – Michael Clancy will address the Commission
regarding their services
X. Public Hearing: None
XI. 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
XII. Reports and Comments:
A. Interim City Manager Comments:
B. Engineering Comments:
C. Commissioners Comments:
J. Jones – National Street School Sign

T. VanHoecke –
M. Wells –
E. Woellhof –
K. Harrington –
D. City Attorney Comments:
XIII. Executive Session – If requested, (please follow script in all motions for
Executive Sessions)
XIV. Adjournment:

Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Swearing-In Ceremony
This week, I was joined by my family as I was sworn in to serve Kansans for a third term in the United States Senate. Representing Kansas in the U.S. Senate is one of the greatest privileges of my life and a solemn responsibility I do not take lightly.

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As the 118th Congress begins, I took the time to reflect on those who have served before me and on the significance of the duty Kansans have placed with me. I am humbled by this responsibility and look forward to continuing to advocate for Kansas values in Washington, D.C.

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2022 in Review
Throughout the past year, I visited with thousands of Kansans across the state. I am grateful to each of you for these conversations and for the insight you offer into the many issues we are facing as a country.

I am also reminded of one of the most important tasks for my office: helping Kansans navigate and resolve issues with federal agencies through casework. Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if we can be of any assistance regarding Social Security, Medicare or veterans’ affairs, or if you have other concerns regarding federal issues. You can learn more about how to do this here.

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Continue reading U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter →

Government, Kansas

Governor Laura Kelly Sworn Into Office for Second Term

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~~In Inaugural Address, Gov. Kelly Calls for Civility and Unity in Politics and Shares Vision for Next Four Years~~

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor David Toland were sworn into office in a ceremony outside the Kansas State Capitol. The Kelly Administration now begins its second term in office.

Governor Kelly first became the 48th governor of Kansas on January 14, 2019, pledging to rebuild Kansas by reaching across the aisle. Since then, she has worked with a bipartisan group of legislators to fully fund schools, axe the sales tax on food, close the Bank of KDOT, and recruit the largest economic development project in state history.

Governor Kelly began her second term by celebrating the Kansas spirit of “neighbor-helping-neighbor” and calling on the state’s elected leaders to embody the same civility and unity.

“We’re often told that there’s ‘a fork in the road’ and you have to make a choice – you can either go right or you can go left. I believe that’s a false choice.  I believe the best choice is right down the middle of that road,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

“Because the middle of the road is where left and right come together; where well-intentioned people who hold different positions find common ground.  Nobody gets everything they want, everyone gets something they want, and progress is made. That’s how life works. It’s how government should work too.”

Governor Kelly also shared her vision for her second term.

“Our North Star is this: To make Kansas the best place in America to raise a family,” Governor Kelly said. “Where you can see opportunity for yourself, for your children, and for your grandchildren.”

Read a full copy of Governor Kelly’s remarks as prepared for delivery here.

Bourbon County, Government

City of Uniontown Minutes of Dec. 13

1 Comment

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