Category Archives: Uncategorized

Letter to the Editor: Bourbon County Commission Preparation

Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

To build a more professional Bourbon County government, we must address a breakdown in basic preparation that is stalling our county business. Lately, we have seen instances where the commission has had to revisit and change votes weeks after they were cast. While correcting a mistake is necessary, the root cause of these unstable votes is a severe lack of due diligence before meetings even begin.

This issue stems from two problematic habits. First, it increasingly appears that some items are intentionally withheld until meeting day to blindside the rest of the board. Second, some commissioners simply aren’t doing their homework. Far too much meeting time is wasted because officials are learning basic details about a project on the fly.

A county commission shouldn’t be a place for on-the-job training during a live vote. If commissioners maintained strong, professional working relationships with county department directors, a majority of these questions could be resolved beforehand. Directors are the experts hired to run our county operations. If a commissioner doesn’t trust them to be the experts, then we have to ask why they are even working there in the first place. But if we do trust them, then consulting with them ahead of time ensures that when a commissioner walks into the room, they actually understand the impact of the vote they are about to cast.

To protect our taxpayers, we need a simple, common-sense rule for county business: very rarely should anything be added to the agenda at the last minute unless it is a genuine emergency.

If a commissioner has a new proposal, they should introduce it during “commissioner comments” first. This allows county staff, the rest of the board, and the public ample time to review the data. Only after the due diligence is done should the item be placed on the agenda for a formal vote at the next meeting.

Our county budget and infrastructure are too important for seat-of-the-pants decision-making. True leadership requires talking to our directors, reviewing the facts early, and respecting the legislative process.

Respectfully,
Josh Jones

Bourbon County Arrest & Release Report: Aug. 14–17, 2026

Watercolor illustration of the Bourbon County Law Enforcement Center with the words Bourbon County Sheriff s Report

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Arrest Summary Report

Period: 08/14/2026 – 08/17/2026
293 E 20th St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

Inmate Name Case No. Agency Held For Arrest Date Released Date Age Charges Bond Type Bond Amt.
CARSON, LOWELL 2026-000671 Fort Scott Police Department 8/14/2026 7:01 AM 75 Warrant Bourbon County (Failure to Appear) — Warrant No. BB-26-CR-75 Cash/Surety $1,000.00
FREDERICK, RACHEL TANNETTE 2026-000672 Fort Scott Police Department 8/14/2026 1:48 PM 56 Battery; Possess Opiates/Opium/Narc Drug and Certain Stimulants Cash/Surety $2,500.00
EVANS, JOHN WAYNE 2026-000673 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/14/2026 4:00 PM 8/16/2026 4:04 PM 44 Sanction $0.00
ERIKSON, MELVIN JASON 2026-000674 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/14/2026 4:00 PM 8/16/2026 4:02 PM 47 Sanction $0.00
EISENBRANDT, JONAH ISAIAH 2026-000675 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/14/2026 6:00 PM 8/16/2026 6:00 PM 46 Sanction $0.00
STINNETT, JACOB ALLEN MICHAEL E 2026-000676 Fort Scott Police Department 8/15/2026 12:04 AM 8/15/2026 12:45 PM 22 DUI; Misdemeanor Own Recognizance $0.00
MORRIS, ERIC 2026-000677 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/15/2026 3:11 PM 47 Warrant Bourbon County (Failure to Appear) No Bond $0.00

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Inmate Released List

Period: 08/14/2026 – 08/17/2026

Inmate Name Case No. Booked Date Released Date Age Release Type Released To
EISENBRANDT, JONAH ISAIAH 2026-000675 08/14/2026 8/16/2026 6:00 PM 46 Time Served Self
ERIKSON, MELVIN JASON 2026-000674 08/14/2026 8/16/2026 4:02 PM 47 Probation Self
EVANS, JOHN WAYNE 2026-000673 08/14/2026 8/16/2026 4:04 PM 44 Probation Self
LITCHFIELD, LESLIE LEE 2026-000650 08/09/2026 8/15/2026 4:41 PM 62 Surety Bond Larry Lamb
MCREYNOLDS, CURTIS DOUGLAS 2026-000670 08/13/2026 8/15/2026 4:20 PM 43 Surety Bond Larry Lamb
PALMER, NEAL GILBERT 2026-000609 07/30/2026 8/14/2026 11:15 AM 31 Own Recognizance Self
SANCHEZ, GERARDO 2026-000645 08/08/2026 8/14/2026 8:35 AM 35 Cash Bond Self
STEELEY, JEREMY GLENN 2026-000669 08/13/2026 8/15/2026 6:14 PM 49 Surety Bond Able Bonding
STINNETT, JACOB ALLEN MICHAEL E 2026-000676 08/15/2026 8/15/2026 12:45 PM 22 Own Recognizance Self

Total Inmates Released: 9

Documents:

Senior Care Coalition Luncheon Meeting – Aug. 19

Senior Care Coalition Meeting – August 19, 2026

You are invited to attend the monthly Senior Care Coalition Meeting for August, hosted by Angels Care Home Health.

The meeting will be held at Credo Senior Living & Memory Care, 820 S. Horton St., Fort Scott, KS.

  • Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
  • Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
  • Location: Credo Senior Living, 820 S. Horton St., Fort Scott, KS

Please RSVP to Janie if you would like to eat the lunch provided by Angels Care Home Health:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 620-232-2922

Please share this with anyone who may be interested.

Documents:

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – Aug. 12–13, 2026

Watercolor illustration of the Bourbon County Law Enforcement Center with the words Bourbon County Sheriff s Report

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Daily Report

Arrest Summary Report: 08/12/2026 – 08/13/2026

POYNER-REED, LAKIN GENTRY — Case #2026-000661
Agency: Fort Scott Police Department
Arrest Date: 8/12/2026 2:15 PM | Age: 21
Charges:

  • Battery — No Bond ($0.00)
  • Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor — No Bond ($0.00)
  • Disorderly Conduct; Unknown Circumstance — No Bond ($0.00)

Bond Total: $0.00

PRESTLEY, TRINITY DEBRA ROSE — Case #2026-000662
Agency: Fort Scott Police Department
Arrest Date: 8/12/2026 2:59 PM | Age: 20
Charges:

  • Battery — No Bond ($0.00)
  • Disorderly Conduct; Unknown Circumstance — No Bond ($0.00)

Bond Total: $0.00

BOURQUE, CHANDRA DAWN — Case #2026-000663
Agency: Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
Arrest Date: 8/12/2026 2:48 PM | Age: 43
Charges:

  • Warrant – Out of State* ($0.00)
  • Warrant – Out of State* ($0.00)

Bond Total: $0.00

WILLARD, GLEYNONA RENEA — Case #2026-000664
Agency: Fort Scott Police Department
Arrest Date: 8/12/2026 2:59 PM | Age: 19
Charges:

  • Battery — No Bond ($0.00)
  • Disorderly Conduct; Unknown Circumstance — No Bond ($0.00)

Bond Total: $0.00

HATCHER, HADISON MAE — Case #2026-000665
Agency: Fort Scott Police Department
Arrest Date: 8/12/2026 2:15 PM | Age: 20
Charges:

  • Battery — No Bond ($0.00)
  • Disorderly Conduct; Unknown Circumstance — No Bond ($0.00)

Bond Total: $0.00

GLOVER, BRYAN KEITH — Case #2026-000666
Agency: Fort Scott Police Department
Arrest Date: 8/12/2026 11:04 PM | Age: 48
Charges:

  • Warrant – Out of State* (Warrant No. 2416-CR01379-01) — No Bond ($0.00)

Bond Total: $0.00


Inmate Released List: 08/12/2026 – 08/13/2026

SWINK, RYAN MITCHELL — Case #2026-000657
Booked Date: 08/10/2026 | Age: 39 | Race: W | Sex: M
Released: 8/12/2026 7:00 PM
Release Type: Surety Bond | Released To: Able Bonding

Total Inmates Released: 1

Documents:

Uniontown Budget Hearing; Council Meeting – Aug. 11, 7 PM

Uniontown City Council – Budget Hearing & Regular Meeting

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Uniontown Community Center

The City of Uniontown will hold a Budget Hearing followed by the Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 7:00 PM. The public is welcome to attend.

Minutes: Regular Council Meeting – July 14, 2026

The Regular Council Meeting on July 14, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was Lou Howard, Joe George, Loretta George, Betty Dennis, Mary Pillion, Codes Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson, and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

Citizens Requests

Bourbon County Emergency Manager Lou Howard addressed the Council regarding the Genasys text alert system available to the public. She explained that the City of Uniontown is eligible to establish its own account for the service. Council members asked questions about how text alerts are distributed, including how notification boundaries are established and how recipients within those boundaries receive alerts.

Moved by Pemberton, Second by Kelly, Approved 3-0, to set up an account for the City of Uniontown on the Genasys text alert system provided by the Bourbon County Emergency Management Team.

Loretta George expressed concerns about standing water at 402 2nd Street and a potentially plugged culvert. Superintendent Rich stated that he would inspect the culvert to determine whether it is blocked.

Betty Dennis requested an update on the proposed leash law previously asked to be added to the City’s ordinances. The Council informed her that dog-related ordinances would be discussed later in the meeting.

Mary Pillion provided information regarding the annual Old Settlers Day Picnic, held around Labor Day, and asked whether the Council would approve holding a street dance again this year.

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to allow the street dance and to block off Sherman St between 2nd and 3rd Streets. The City will continue to support the Old Settlers Day Picnic event by providing a trash dumpster, staff to maintain the public restrooms, water, and electricity used during the event.

Financial Report

Treasurer Johnson presented the June 2026 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $248,172.75; Receipts $51,578.08; Transfers Out $3,024.25; Expenditures $46,926.52; Checking Account Closing Balance $249,800.06. Bank Statement Balance $272,010.36, including Checking Account Interest of $55.44; Outstanding Checks $22,210.30; Reconciled Balance $249,800.06. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,707.59; Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,599.14; Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $51,241.51; Total All Funds including Certificates of Deposit $369,348.30. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Account $307.00; Utility CDs $1,401.25; Total Year-to-Date Interest $1,708.25. June Transfers: Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00; Total Transfers $3,024.25. Net income for June $1,627.31; Year-to-Date Net Income $49,054.60.

Budget vs. Actual YTD: Gas Fund Revenue $85,824.20 (66.3%), Expenditures $53,150.35 (40.3%); Sewer Fund Revenue $20,637.73 (57.2%), Expenditures $16,255.40 (38.1%); Water Fund Revenue $61,169.28 (49.2%), Expenditures $50,430.47 (35.4%); General Fund Revenue $88,134.02 (59.8%), Expenditures $87,557.20 (37.3%); Special Highway Revenue $3,968.83 (54.4%), Expenditures $4,193.45 (37.5%). July 2026 payables to date: $41,546.04.

Consent Agenda

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda: Minutes of June 9, 2026 Regular Meeting; June Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class, and July Accounts Payables.

Treasurer Johnson proposed setting the budget hearing for the August 11 meeting. Moved by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to set the budget hearing for August 11 at 7:00 p.m.

Department Reports

Code Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan commended USB for organizing a successful Independence Day Celebration and thanked Superintendent Bobby Rich for preparing the park for the event. Coyan reported that the property at 202 4th Street had been cited and was awaiting a court date. He also provided an update on the property at 101 Washington and reported that 201 Fulton was in much better condition than at the previous meeting.

Mayor Jurgensen stated that Clerk Arnold wrote a well-presented article for Bandera Stone in last month’s newsletter. The upcoming newsletter would feature a thank-you message to USB for its Independence Day celebration.

Superintendent Bobby Rich presented pricing comparisons for cold patch asphalt with fiber and without fiber. Moved by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, for Rich to purchase 18 tons of cold patch with fiber.

Mayor Jurgensen asked when the town-wide cleanup was scheduled. Johnson stated it would be held August 31 through September 3.

Councilmember Pemberton complimented Superintendent Rich on the newly repainted basketball goal posts in the park. City Clerk Haley Arnold informed the Council that the audit for DBB, Inc. was scheduled for July 28 and 29.

Council Report

  • Councilman Knight – absent
  • Councilwoman Kelly – asked Superintendent Rich to repair or remove the damaged window screens at the Community Center and relocate screens still in good condition to the front of the building.
  • Councilwoman Pemberton – none
  • Councilwoman Pritchett – absent
  • Councilman Stewart – stated that publishing an article thanking the bank for sponsoring the Independence Day celebration was a good idea.
  • Mayor Jurgensen – presented the Council with a letter of resignation from Councilwoman Savannah Pritchett. Moved by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to accept the resignation of Councilwoman Savannah Pritchett.

Mayor Jurgensen reported that he spoke with the NRCS regarding funding for the project on the north side of town; it would likely be about a year before funding availability is determined. He is continuing discussions with Herschel George and Jared Pollock regarding the flooding issue.

Mayor Jurgensen reported that he is setting up the park security cameras. After discussion, the Council agreed to purchase four cameras for the park.

Old Business

FEMA Flooding: Johnson reported that a closeout meeting was scheduled for July 23 to discuss completed repairs and determine eligibility for reimbursement. She is hopeful the City will receive reimbursement for 85% of the project’s eligible costs.

Dog Ordinance No. 85 Review and Discussion: Councilman Stewart presented his draft of a revised animal control ordinance. By consensus, the Council agreed to combine all existing dog ordinances into a single comprehensive ordinance to be discussed at next month’s meeting.

Community Center Deposit and Rent Review: Moved by Kelly, Seconded by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to increase the Community Center security deposit to $25, the rental fee to $25 for up to 4 hours, and $50 for up to 8 hours.

New Business

Building Safety Concern: Discussion was held regarding the potential safety concerns associated with the building located north of City Hall. No action will be taken at this time.

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), to discuss performance of non-elected personnel; the open meeting resumed at 9:05 PM.

The Council decided to seek out one or two young men to assist Rich with a variety of jobs and projects throughout the City.

Moved by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 9:15 PM.

Budget Worksession Minutes – July 8, 2026

The Budget Worksession on July 8, 2026 at Uniontown City Hall was called to order at 6:30 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Mary Pemberton, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance was City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

Treasurer Johnson presented the proposed budget. The Council reviewed the proposed budget and made suggestions for changes to the transfers out of all utility funds. Consensus is to remain revenue neutral. Worksession adjourned at 9:24 PM.

July 2026 Treasurer’s Report

City of Uniontown, KS – Treasurer’s Report, July 2026

Monthly Transactions – Total of All Accounts: Beginning Balance $249,800.06 | Receipts $29,459.26 | Transfers Out $3,024.25 | Expenditures $47,256.02 | Ending Balance $228,979.05

Bank Reconciliation: Bank Statement $229,270.86 | Deposits Not Credited $0.00 | Outstanding Checks $291.81 | Ending Balance $228,979.05. Certificates of Deposit: Water Utility CD $43,707.59 | Sewer Utility CD $24,599.14 | Gas Utility CDs $51,241.51 | Total of All Funds including CDs: $348,527.29

Interest YTD: Checking Account $359.56 | Utility CDs $1,401.25 | Total $1,760.81

Transfers: Sewer Revolving Loan (from Sewer Utility) $1,400.25 | GO Water Bond & Interest (from Water Utility) $1,624.00 | Total Transfers $3,024.25

Capital Improvement Fund: Unspecified $56,139.93 | Streets $96,783.11 | Total $152,923.04

Net Income (July): ($20,821.01) | YTD Net Income: $28,233.59

001 General Fund – July 2026

Total Revenue (July): $6,584.19 | YTD: $94,718.21 | Budget: $147,330.00 (64.3%)
Total Expenditures (July): $8,366.48 | YTD: $95,923.68 | Budget: $234,858.00 (40.8%)
Income Over Expenses (July): ($1,782.29) | YTD: ($1,205.47) | Ending Balance: $95,119.32
Unencumbered Requirement: $49,458.00

110 Special Highway – July 2026

Total Revenue (July): $2,085.35 | YTD: $6,054.18 | Budget: $7,290.00 (83.0%)
Total Expenditures (July): $663.96 | YTD: $4,857.41 | Budget: $11,191.00 (43.4%)
Income Over Expenses (July): $1,421.39 | YTD: $1,196.77 | Ending Balance: $5,917.40

300 Gas Utility Fund – July 2026

Total Revenue (July): $3,676.93 | YTD: $89,501.13 | Budget: $129,374.00 (69.2%)
Total Expenditures (July): $6,765.10 | YTD: $59,915.45 | Budget: $131,830.00 (45.4%)
Income Over Expenses (July): ($3,088.17) | YTD: $29,585.68 | Ending Balance (w/o CDs): ($28,155.20)
Gas Utility CDs: $51,241.51 | Ending Balance with CD: $23,086.31 | Unencumbered Requirement: $3,773.00

310 Water Utility Fund – July 2026

Total Revenue (July): $9,758.45 | YTD: $70,927.73 | Budget: $124,435.00 (57.0%)
Total Expenditures (July): $9,854.85 | YTD: $60,285.32 | Budget: $142,643.00 (42.3%)
Income Over Expenses (July): ($96.40) | YTD: $10,642.41 | Ending Balance (w/o CDs): ($14,062.14)
Water Utility CD: $43,707.59 | Ending Balance with CD: $29,645.45 | Unencumbered Requirement: $8,773.00

320 Sewer Utility Fund – July 2026

Total Revenue (July): $3,830.09 | YTD: $24,467.82 | Budget: $36,100.00 (67.8%)
Total Expenditures (July): $2,259.88 | YTD: $18,515.28 | Budget: $42,698.00 (43.4%)
Income Over Expenses (July): $1,570.21 | YTD: $5,952.54 | Ending Balance (w/o CDs): ($18,310.36)
Sewer Utility CD: $24,599.14 | Ending Balance with CD: $6,288.78 | Unencumbered Requirement: $6,092.00


For more information, contact City Clerk Haley Arnold at 620-756-4742 or [email protected].

Documents:

Bourbon County Jail Report – Aug. 10–11, 2026

Watercolor illustration of the Bourbon County Law Enforcement Center with the words Bourbon County Sheriff s Report

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Arrest Summary Report

Period: 08/10/2026 – 08/11/2026

Name Case No. Age Agency Held For Arrest Date/Time Charges Bond Type Bond Amt.
Tucker, Sky 2026-000651 30 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/10/2026 10:50 AM Warrant Bourbon County (Probation Violation) No Bond $0.00
Schermerhorn, Clint Wayne 2026-000652 47 Douglas County 8/10/2026 1:37 PM Other Agency Hold No Bond $0.00
Muntean, Strugurel 2026-000653 39 Douglas County 8/10/2026 1:55 PM Other Agency Hold $0.00
Slavens, Kyle 2026-000654 37 Douglas County 8/10/2026 2:14 PM Other Agency Hold No Bond $0.00
Meuffels, Jeremy 2026-000655 48 Douglas County 8/10/2026 2:32 PM Other Agency Hold No Bond $0.00
Burns, Randy Dale Jr. 2026-000656 46 Douglas County 8/10/2026 2:47 PM Other Agency Hold No Bond $0.00
Swink, Ryan Mitchell 2026-000657 39 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/10/2026 3:36 PM Possession of Certain Stimulants w/1 Prior Conviction; Use/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body No Bond $0.00
James, Vicki K 2026-000658 50 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/10/2026 5:08 PM Warrant Bourbon County (Bond Revoke) No Bond $0.00

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Inmate Released List

Period: 08/10/2026 – 08/11/2026  |  Total Released: 10

Name Inmate No. Age Sex Booked Date Released Date/Time Release Type Released To
Carr, Randle R 2026-000588 46 M 07/21/2026 8/10/2026 1:26 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Dent, Jerald L 2026-000631 58 M 08/05/2026 8/10/2026 1:31 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Edmonds, Chad 2026-000623 56 M 08/03/2026 8/10/2026 1:30 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Edwards, Robert 2026-000597 40 M 07/24/2026 8/10/2026 1:29 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Hawn, Ryan Scott 2026-000641 38 M 08/07/2026 8/10/2026 4:35 PM Surety Bond Able Bonding
Helgren, Raymond David 2026-000635 29 M 08/05/2026 8/10/2026 8:11 PM Surety Bond American Western
Hoyman, Rusty 2026-000598 38 M 07/24/2026 8/10/2026 1:27 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Janesko, Jacob 2026-000566 27 M 07/13/2026 8/10/2026 1:25 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Kenneson, Conner 2026-000625 32 M 08/03/2026 8/10/2026 1:31 PM Transferred Out Douglas County
Watkins, Scott Russell 2026-000647 48 M 08/09/2026 8/10/2026 11:45 AM Surety Bond Larry Lamb

Documents:

Breaking News: Bourbon County Clerk Resigns

Susan Walker announced her resignation at the  Bourbon County commission meeting at 6:33 pm on Monday August 10th, 2026. Her last day will be August 31st.

She specifically pointed to  incompetent leadership and lack of integrity on the part of Commissioner Tran as one of the reasons for resignation.

The staff from the clerks office will also be transferring elsewhere.

Susan said Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt will finish the meeting and fill the office until another clerk is appointed by the Republican party.

Bourbon County Coalition August 2026 Meeting Minutes

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Minutes — August 5, 2026

Welcome: Fourteen members from twelve agencies attended the meeting in the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.

Coalition Board News: There is an open seat on the Coalition Board. Reach out to Nick if you are interested.

Member Introductions and Announcements

  • Aslee Reeder – Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center
  • Rene Hibdon – CHC SEK, Patient Resource Specialist. Rene was previously working with young clients and their families. She is now working with clients of all ages.
  • Henry Coronado – SER Corporation. The SER Corporation facilitates grants for students in the tech field, especially agriculture. They work frequently with the John Deere and welding programs at FSCC.
  • Amanda Portwood – Ward Kraft Recruiter
  • Alyssa Hess – Safehouse Crisis Center. Alyssa can provide presentations on healthy relationships to students in grades 6–12.
  • Janelle Tate – Early Childhood Block Grant. The grant is starting up the school year and getting ready to serve multiple counties in Southeast Kansas.
  • Michelle Stevenson – Early Childhood Program Coordinator. Michelle works with families who have children prenatal through age 6. She works with families to encourage a child’s development and track progress toward milestones.
  • Star Culp – Parents As Teachers. Star serves USD 234 Fort Scott, USD 235 Uniontown, and USD 256 Marmaton Valley.
  • Shelby Moore – FAST Program. Shelby works with families providing special education assistance.
  • Kathy Romero – Manager, Angels Care Home Health. Angels Care offers PT, OT, speech, nursing, and education services. Angels does not accept Medicaid but will help find services.
  • Theresa Amershek – Child Exchange & Visitation Center (CEVC). CEVC provides services for anyone who needs visitation with their kids. They have security available to assist with difficult visitation situations and work with the domestic violence center.
  • Shelby Blagg – Victim Advocate at Safehouse Crisis Center. The Safehouse provides shelter and advocacy for domestic and sexual violence victims.

Program

Dr. Zach Johnson, Superintendent, USD 234 Fort Scott

Dr. Johnson is beginning his fifth year at USD 234. Previously, he was the middle school principal for three years and Assistant Superintendent for one year. He has also taught, coached, and been an administrator in the Springfield area and Coffeyville school district. Dr. Johnson’s wife is a clinician at KRI.

USD 234 is beginning a strategic planning process to develop a mission and vision. Four community events will be held this fall. The school district is inviting community members to participate in these strategic planning sessions to learn more about the school district and provide input into the planning process. Surveys will also be available for the community. Dr. Johnson is working to develop partnerships between the school district and community through this process. The plan will guide the district for the next 3–5 years.

School begins Friday, August 14. Staff will return to work Monday to prepare classrooms and attend professional development sessions, including a guest speaker, Dave Burgess, who will speak to staff the following Wednesday.

Strategic Planning Sessions (all held at FSHS Commons Area, 5:00–8:00 PM):

  • August 27, 2026
  • September 17, 2026
  • October 8, 2026
  • October 29, 2026

Amanda Portwood, Ward/Kraft Recruiter

Ward/Kraft has developed a priority of recruiting within a 30-mile radius of Fort Scott. Amanda was hired to lead this recruiting initiative. She has been working with churches, schools, teams, and organizations to identify potential employees and help them begin the application and interview process.

Ward/Kraft has a paid apprenticeship program for some jobs — apprentices can earn $15 per hour while learning a new job. Multiple positions are currently available, ranging from IT and Account Managing to entry-level jobs, including housekeeping, machinist, production worker, and account manager. The production division runs three shifts Monday–Friday and rotates every three weeks. Office jobs are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Monday–Friday. Ward/Kraft will work with people who have had difficulties in the past.

Reach out to Amanda for more information: [email protected]

Open Forum

Nothing further came before the coalition.

Adjournment

The next General Membership meeting will be September 2, 2026.

Documents:

USD 235 BOE Meeting Monday, Aug. 10 at 7 p.m.

Uniontown USD 235 Regular Board of Education Meeting

Monday, August 10, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
UJHS/UHS Commons Area, Uniontown, Kansas

Agenda

I. Call to Order

  • A. District Mission Statement
  • B. Approve the Agenda
  • C. Review and approve the July 13, 2026 Regular meeting minutes

II. Consent Agenda

  • A. Approve and pay bills on the computer printout $742,419.53

III. Informational Items

  • A. Audience with patrons
  • B. Preliminary Budget Review
  • C. Set Revenue Neutral and Budget Hearing
  • D. 2026-27 USD 235 Negotiated Agreement
  • E. KASB Annual Convention – November 6–8 (Wichita)
  • F. Strategic Plan
  • G. Bond/Capital Projects
  • H. Approve Food Service Procurement Plan
  • I. Administrative Reports – Mr. Onelio, Mrs. Mason, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Eden

IV. Action Items

  • A. Approve Food Service Procurement Plan
  • B. Approve 2026-27 Strategic Plan
  • C. Approve Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing and Budget Hearing for September 14, 2026
  • D. Approve 2026-27 USD 235 Negotiated Agreement

VI. Executive Session – Supt.

VIII. Adjournment

Next Regular board meeting date is Monday, September 14, 2026 at 7:00. Revenue Neutral Hearing at 6:45 p.m. and Budget Hearing at 6:50 p.m.

The full agenda packet is attached as a PDF: BOEAug2026.pdf

ARTEFFECT Announces 2026 Spotlight Prize Large Format Winners

2026 Summer Art Competition – Innovation Generation Info Session

Wednesday, August 5 | 4:00–5:00 PM PT

Join ARTEFFECT online to learn more about the ARTEFFECT Summer Art Competition, INNOVATION GENERATION, open to students in grades 9–12! This Info Session will explore the Unsung Heroes who were innovators, tips for submitting, award categories, and more. Hear from previously participating young artists and educators! Bring your questions! Free to join – registration required.

Register for the Info Session

The 2026 Summer Competition, open through September 15, 2026, offers multiple awards, totaling over $20,000 in financial prizes. No submission can win more than one award or prize. Free to enter. Read the FAQs for more details about eligibility.


2026 Spotlight Prize Winners – Large Format Category

In 2026, four students received a $1,000 Spotlight Prize for their Large Format projects—works greater than 24 x 36 inches. The Spotlight Prize – Media category encourages students to create artworks in selected mediums and formats. Congratulations to these students for their spectacular projects!

  • Bea Holmberg, an 11th grade student from Washington Waldorf School in Bethesda, Maryland, for Leavitt’s Standard Candle, commemorating astronomer Henrietta Swan Leavitt.
  • Marilyn Sommerville, an 11th grade student working with 2024–25 ARTEFFECT Ambassador Corina Alvarezdelugo from King School in Stamford, Connecticut, for The Heart of a Hero, depicting pediatric cardiologist Dr. Helen Taussig.
  • Eva Aistė Špokaitė, a 12th grade student from Vilnius, Lithuania, for A “No” that Saved Thousands, honoring pharmacologist Dr. Frances Kelsey.
  • Joey Szpilczak, an 11th grade student at Germantown Friends School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for The Resonance of Care, inspired by physician and cancer researcher Dr. May Edward Chinn.

Congratulations to these students and all 2026 ARTEFFECT Awardees! View all 2026 winners.


ARTEFFECT Ambassadors – Visual Arts Online Fellowship 2026–2027

Call for Applications Now Open!

ARTEFFECT Ambassadors is an online fellowship for educators working directly with students in grades 6–12 to foster the visual arts. Ambassadors learn alongside other high-level practitioners through visual arts-focused, project-based lessons centered on the inspiring and diverse stories of Unsung Heroes from history.

Applications due Monday, September 14 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time.

Learn More & Apply


Ambassadors in Action!

Meet our 2025–2026 Ambassador Nakimer Foreman, Ed.S., a Visual Art Teacher from Monroe Comprehensive High School in Albany, Georgia.

Each ARTEFFECT Ambassador culminates their visual arts online fellowship with a capstone project that brings the inspiring stories of the LMC Unsung Heroes into their classrooms and communities.

Here is an excerpt from Nakimer’s Capstone Project report:

“Through their ARTEFFECT projects, students demonstrated increased confidence in discussing historical topics, interpreting symbolism, and explaining the purpose behind their artistic decisions. Many students expressed that they felt empowered knowing their artwork could educate others and bring recognition to individuals who deserved greater acknowledgment.”

Congratulations to Nakimer and her students at Monroe Comprehensive High School for your inspiring ARTEFFECT projects!

Read more about Nakimer’s capstone project

Congratulations to Nakimer’s students for being selected as Finalists in the 2026 ARTEFFECT annual competition!


For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Schmidt Opens Service Academy Nomination Applications

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 3, 2026

Derek Schmidt. Submitted photo.

Congressman Derek Schmidt Announces Service Academy Nomination Applications Now Open

TOPEKA – Congressman Derek Schmidt is now accepting applications for Kansas Second District students seeking a congressional nomination to attend one of the nation’s prestigious U.S. Service Academies.

“One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is nominating outstanding young men and women from the Second District to our nation’s service academies,” Congressman Schmidt said. “These institutions develop the next generation of military leaders who are committed to serving our country with honor, integrity, and excellence. I encourage every eligible student who has a passion for leadership and a desire to serve our nation to apply.”

Members of Congress may nominate candidates to the following U.S. Service Academies:

  • U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York
  • U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland
  • U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado
  • U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York

To be eligible for a nomination, applicants must, as of July 1 of the year of admission:

  • Be at least 17 years old but not yet 23.
  • Be a United States citizen.
  • Be unmarried with no legal obligation to support a child or dependent.
  • Be a legal resident of Kansas’ Second Congressional District.

Completed nomination application materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on October 15, 2026. Required materials include an online application, essay, recent photograph, résumé, official transcripts, standardized test score verification, and three letters of recommendation.

Applicants who submit a complete nomination file and meet all eligibility requirements will be invited to interview before Congressman Schmidt’s independent, nonpartisan Service Academy Nomination Board on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Click here for more information about the application process.

BCSO Arrest & Release Report: July 31 – Aug. 3, 2026

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Arrest Summary Report

Period: 07/31/2026 – 08/03/2026
Report Printed: 08/03/2026 8:21 AM

Inmate Name Case No. Agency Arrest Date Released Date Age Charges Bond Type Bond Amt.
MERCER-KENT, SANDRA JANE 2026-000613 Fort Scott Police Department 7/31/2026 7:07 AM 49 Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor No Cash/Surety $500.00
RICHARDS, LEVI KENT 2026-000614 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/31/2026 2:40 PM 41 Warrant – KS Dept. of Corrections No Bond $0.00
HOSMAN, HEIDI RENEE 2026-000615 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/31/2026 3:41 PM 8/1/2026 12:41 AM 51 Possession of Certain Hallucinogenics w/1 Prior Conv; Possess Opiates/Opium/Narc Drug and Certain Stimulants No Cash/Surety $5,000.00
EISENBRANDT, JONAH ISAIAH 2026-000616 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/31/2026 6:00 PM 8/2/2026 6:00 PM 46 Sanction $0.00
MARTINEZ, LESLIE GERALDINE 2026-000617 Fort Scott Police Department 8/1/2026 3:00 AM 8/1/2026 9:24 AM 21 Transporting an Open Container Own Recognizance $2,500.00
REEVES, WANITA LOUISE 2026-000618 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/1/2026 3:07 AM 62 Possession of Certain Hallucinogenic Drugs; Use/Poss Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body; Violation of Offender Registration Act, 1st Conv Cash/Surety $5,000.00
JOHNSON, MATTHIAS ANDREW 2026-000620 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/1/2026 11:06 PM 20 DUI; Misdemeanor; Possession of Certain Illegal Drugs; Use/Poss Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body; Veh: Display of License Plates No Bond $0.00
WINDSOR, GAIL RENAE 2026-000622 Fort Scott Police Department 8/2/2026 6:05 PM 62 Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor Cash/Surety $2,500.00

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Inmate Released List

Period: 07/31/2026 – 08/03/2026

Inmate Name Case No. Booked Date Age Race Sex Released Date/Time Release Type Released To
CREEK, BROOKELYNN MARIE 2026-000611 07/30/2026 20 W F 8/1/2026 11:38 AM Surety Bond Able
EISENBRANDT, JONAH ISAIAH 2026-000616 07/31/2026 46 B M 8/2/2026 6:00 PM Time Served Self
GUFFIN, AUGAIO 2026-000610 07/30/2026 40 B M 8/1/2026 2:05 PM Cash Bond Andrew Lorimer
HOSMAN, HEIDI RENEE 2026-000615 07/31/2026 51 W F 8/1/2026 12:41 AM Surety Bond Able Bonding
MARTINEZ, LESLIE GERALDINE 2026-000617 08/01/2026 21 H F 8/1/2026 9:24 AM Own Recognizance Self
MIRANDA-PEREZ, EDWIN ALEXIS 2026-000619 08/01/2026 24 H M 8/1/2026 9:35 AM Own Recognizance Self
ROWDEN, LESLIE GEAN 2026-000612 07/30/2026 54 W M 8/1/2026 12:02 PM Surety Bond Larry Lamb

Total Inmates Released: 7

Documents: