Obituary

Obituary of Roberta Peck

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In the month of May, 1939 in the central Kansas town of Natoma Roberta Mae (Reynolds) Peck was born into the family of Pastor W.R. and Essie Faye Reynolds.  Her next address would be Covington, Tennessee, then on to West Virginia where her parents ministered to churches in Ashford, Chapmanville, and Huntington.  During those growing-up years she learned to take great pride in being a “West Virginia girl” and often referred to herself as such.   She and her older brother, Arnold Lee, and younger sister, Donna Faye were gifted singers.  At a very young age they were involved in musical concerts, contests, Lion’s Club, Eastern Star, revivals and camp meetings.

In response to the desire to have their children attend a Christian school, the Reynolds family moved to Kansas in 1953.  Roberta began the ’53-’54 school year at Fort Scott Bible School (later known as Fort Scott Christian Heights) in Fort Scott, Kansas as a high school freshman, graduating in 1957.  When a caring, perceptive high school teacher, Marjorie Boldra, told Roberta that she should become a teacher, she took it to heart and established that as her goal.  After graduation she went on to Pittsburg State University to earn her Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of Arts in Elementary Education.  Roberta began her teaching career as a third grade teacher in Lee’s Summit, MO.  Later, she joined the faculty at Fort Scott Christian Heights, where she taught for seven years.  In 1972 she responded to a need for Fort Scott USD 234 to begin a Special Needs Education Program.  She taught there four years before moving into the third grade classroom for USD 234.  She served for many years in that capacity, dearly loved by her superiors, co-workers, students, parents – actually, by all who knew her.  Roberta truly loved to teach.  It seems it was what she was born to do, and she fulfilled her calling with excellence.  One of her oft-repeated joys was to have a former student come up to her and tell her she was his/her favorite teacher ever.  She has stayed in close contact with many of those students.  The last day of her career coincided with her 70th birthday, after 45 years of teaching.

During the busy years of her teaching career, Roberta also found time for her ALL-TIME FAVORITES, her family!  On December 21, 1964 she married Wayne L. Peck, who farmed several acres of land southeast of Fort Scott.  Though she once said “I will never marry a farmer,” she did!  She embraced it and learned to love the farm.  She took a year off from teaching on two very worthy occasions, for the birth of daughter Kimberly Dawn and the birth of son Keniston Wayne.  Her family now includes grandchildren: Braden, Aubrey, Nick, Paige, and her husband, Jeff, and great grandson, Caden.  They are genuinely her greatest pride and joy!  Her retired life revolved around her grandchildren’s sporting events, planning special celebrations for the family and establishing unique traditions for them.

Anyone who knew Roberta knows how much she enjoyed laughter and good times with family and friends.  Those good times might even involve a prank or two!  They also know she was a strong Christian and prayer warrior, often sharing your prayer burden as though it were her own.  Those prayers will be greatly missed by her immediate and extended family members!  She will be missed by a multitude, but her spirit will be with us always, a spirit we would all do well to emulate.

Roberta traded her treasured farm home for her heavenly home on April 4, 2020.  She is survived by her husband, Wayne; her daughter and her husband, Kim and Bruce Murphy of Olathe, KS; her son and his wife, Keniston and Tonya Peck of Webb City, MO; her grandchildren: Braden and Aubrey Peck, Nick Murphy, Paige (Murphy) and her husband, Jeff Wixson; and a great grandson, Caden Wixson.  She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Marcy Reynolds of Fort Scott, KS; two sisters and their husbands: Donna and Gerald Carlson of Pinson, AL; Mary Lou and Wayne Sams of Harrisonville, MO; one brother and his wife, Bob and Sharon Reynolds of Olathe, KS; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, W.R. and Essie F. Reynolds, and her brother, Arnold Reynolds.

Private family burial will take place in the Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Fort Scott Christian Heights and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

 

Obituary

Obituary of Elmer Junior Judy

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Elmer Junior Judy, age 90, a resident of rural Ft. Scott, Kansas, peacefully went to be with Jesus Friday, April 3, 2020, at his home.  He was born March 9, 1930, at the family’s rock house southwest of Ft. Scott, the son of Elmer Lewis Judy and Eliza Elizabeth Sanders Judy.  Elmer graduated from the Ft. Scott High School.  He married Lee Ella Gates on April 15, 1949, at Ft. Scott.  In earlier years, Elmer worked at a variety of jobs, but for the majority of his life, he owned and operated Judy’s Iron and Metal in Ft. Scott.  Elmer remained active with his business until three weeks prior to his death.  He was a lover of God, his family, his church, Christian education, missions and good hard work.  Even though he had great influence, he remained humble.  Elmer had an enthusiasm and optimism for everything he did.  He faithfully attended the Parkway Church of God (Holiness).  He served for many years on the Parkway Church Board, the Ft. Scott Christian Heights School Board and the Iron Quill Board of Directors he was also a board member for Haiti Missions.

Survivors include his son, Mike Judy and wife, Carma, of Omaha, Arkansas and his two daughters, Gwen Chance and husband, Terry and Jan Beltram and husband, Larry, all of Ft. Scott and four grandchildren, Brent Chance and wife, Angela, of Harrisonville, Missouri, Brandon Beltram and wife, Amber, of Wichita, Kansas, Lynden Judy and wife, Katie, of Omaha, Arkansas and Kristi Harbit and husband, Justin, of Ft. Scott, Kansas and ten great-grandchildren, Alec, Nate, Kole and Alena Chance, Mikah and Emma Beltram and Tally, Claire, Jhett and Jessa Judy.  Also surviving is his brother, Richard Judy, of Emmett, Idaho.  Elmer’s wife, Lee Ella, preceded him in death on March 8, 2018.  He was also preceded in death by a son, Les Judy, a grandson, Dustin Chance, a brother, Clarence Judy and a sister, Marie Peterson.

Private burial will take place in the Evergreen Cemetery at Ft. Scott, Kansas.  A memorial service will be held at a later date at the Parkway Church of God (Holiness).  Memorials are suggested to Ft. Scott Christian Heights and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary

Obituary of Daisy LaLinda Lee Burton

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Daisy Lalinda Lee Burton

Daisy Lalinda Lee Burton, age 58, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Thursday, April 2, 2020, at 12:55 A.M. at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

She was the daughter of R. Rela Holmes and Artist Burton of Bradley, Arkansas. She resided in Blue Mound, Kansas.

Mama Daisy had five children, Moses L. Burton, age 39, Glory Anamana Relf, age 35, Vondric E. Relf, age 34, Irella Burton, age 32, and Ireana Burton, age 32.

Daisy had thirteen grandkids, three girls and ten boys.

Daisy had worked at Key Industries for three years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, R. Rella Holmes and Artist Burton and her brother Andrew L. Callahan and brother, Jimmy.

Also surviving are David C. Haynes and Glory Ann Callahan and a host of sisters and brothers on her dad’s side, Audry (Michele), Gail (Rico), Wayne, Lee Artis (Chanaya), Virginia (Kenneth), Rebecca (Vincent), Michael (Denise), Sabina (Thomas), Jason (Tonya), Alex, Crystal (Chester) and a great host of nieces and nephews.

Cremation was handled by Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County, Government, Health Care

Bourbon County COVID 19-Four Cases

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SEK Multi-County Health Departments

Bourbon County, Kansas

PRESS RELEASE:

NOVEL CORONAVIRUS/COVID-19

April 4, 2020;

A Bourbon County, KS positive COVID-19 test was confirmed this afternoon, making Bourbon County’s total number of cases 4. The testing was confirmed through a reference laboratory that was used. The individual was in a daycare in Bourbon County. This individual is now in isolation at their home, with their family who are now in quarantine. The Bourbon County Public Health Department has contacted the daycare and the provider has been notified and is taking precautions to prevent any spread of COVID-19. The Bourbon County Public Health Department is working diligently to investigate, identify and contact the other individuals who have been exposed.

The Bourbon County Public Health Department urges the public to continue to take appropriate actions. Everyone should practice good hygiene, stay informed, practice social distancing and limit in-person interactions, and avoid travel whenever possible.

SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19:

  • Fever

  • Cough

  • Shortness of Breath

Please remember if you have the symptoms to:

Call before going to a Clinic, Hospital, ER, or Health Department

Close contact means: 6 foot or less for 10 minutes or more, with a positive case.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS OR ARE IN RESPIRATORY DISTRESS:

  • Call your local clinic/family physician’s office OR 911, where you will receive further instructions.

For more information you may call the SEK Multi-County Health Department: Bourbon: (620)223-4464 Monday-Thursday 7:00am-5:30pm OR the COVID-19 Hotline: (866)534-3463.You may also visit the

COVID-19 Resource Center at: http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/index.htmOR Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments on Facebook for local updates.

Opinion

Shining The Light by Pastor James Collins

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“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” Matthew 5:14

Joe was anxious as he walked into the jewelry store to shop for an engagement ring. He had been saving for months to buy the perfect ring to give to Carol. Joe and Carol had been dating for years. He did not doubt that she was his forever love. Still, he was concerned about the ring. He thought, “It must be perfect.”

As Joe looked through the glass counter at a tray of beautiful rings, a salesman walked over and said, “I see you are looking for an engagement ring. I have a fine selection of diamond rings.” He reached behind the counter and handed Joe a ring. The young man held it up to the light. The diamond was a quality stone, but Joe wasn’t impressed. The salesman handed him another ring, and then another, but none of them caught his eye.

The salesman pulled a black velvet pad out of a drawer and placed it on the counter. He took one of the rings out and delicately laid it on the black backdrop. When he did, all the light in the room seemed to pour through the stone causing it to shine as it had never shone before. Joe was dazzled. He had seen this very diamond ring moments earlier, but not like this. All the beauty of the precious stone was now dramatically enhanced and showcased for him to behold. Joe smiled and nodded his approval to the salesman. “That’s the one,” he said.

What changed Joe’s view of the ring? Why did the diamond, which only moments before had appeared so unimpressive, now sparkle like the stars above on a moonless night? In the jewelry business, the dark background makes the difference. When placed on a glass counter, the black velvet causes the light overhead to radiate brilliantly through the diamond, revealing its true beauty and causing it to sparkle and shine more brightly. Take away the black backdrop, and it is hard to see the diamond’s splendor. It is the darkness that causes the stone to burst forth with dazzling light.

We are living in dark days. The COVID-19 outbreak has the world in a hysteria. The death toll has been climbing around the world. People have now been diagnosed with the coronavirus in all fifty states. Schools and businesses are closed. The stock market has crashed, and the country is on the verge of a recession. The public is in a state of panic and many have resulted to hoarding. As a result, there is now a major toilet paper shortage in the United States. Many in the nation have become isolated and are living in fear. The days are dark indeed.

But if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, now is your opportunity to shine in the darkness. How should you shine? Let me suggest a couple of ways. First, you can pray. In this time of trouble, the world needs bold prayer warriors who will get on their faces and cry out to the Lord. Second, call and check on people, especially the elderly, those who have health concerns, and shut-ins. Many are feeling alone. A phone call from you will brighten their day. Third, if you can get out, take supplies to someone living in isolation. Take a bag of groceries to your neighbor. A small act of kindness like that means a lot in desperate times. Finally, share the Gospel. The answer to the darkness is the Light of the World. People need the Lord Jesus Christ.

The point is: The darker the night, the brighter the light shines. Pastor A.W. Tozer once said, “A scared world needs a fearless church.” Now is the time to shine like a diamond on a black backdrop. You and I should reflect His light in this dark world. Unless we tell others about Jesus, people will continue to wander in the darkness.

How bright are you shining?

James Collins is the senior pastor of First Southern Baptist Church where “Drive-In Church” will be held this Sunday. Find out more information at www.fortscottfsbc.com.

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott Commission Minutes of March 31

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes are unapproved until 4/7/20

Minutes of March 31, 2020 Regular Meeting #6

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held March 31st, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners K. Allen, P. Allen, R. Nichols, and L. Watts were present with Mayor J. Mitchell presiding.

INVOCATION: There was no invocation given.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: There was no audience in attendance other than a very few City staff.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of March 10th, 2020.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1259-A totaling $726,100.29.

  1. Approval of Pay Request #7 – Crossland Construction – River Intake Structure Project – $177,321.49.

  1. Request to Pay – Struckel Electric – $8,814.09 – Electric Vault Project – Airport

  1. Request to Pay #3 – Schneider Electric – $353,530.09 – Energy Audit Project

  1. Approval of 3RK – Certificate of Pay Request #3 – MIH Housing Grant – $22,599.52.

  1. Quit Claim Deed – City of Fort Scott to Margaret P. Cummings-3 ½” of alley

  1. February 2020 Financials

Commissioner Pete Allen made a motion to have the Charlesworth Associates invoice pulled out from the Consent Agenda. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.

REMOVED CHARLESWORTH ASSOCIATES INVOICE FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Lindsey Watts seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen and P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-2.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

Discussion was then held on the Charlesworth Associates invoice.

City Manager explained to the Commission that Mr. Charlesworth is an insurance consultant and seeks the best coverage and price for the City’s automobile, and property and casualty insurance. He is paid $6,000 per year to perform this service. He said he could have Mr. Charlesworth come and appear before them at a later meeting.

K. Allen said he would like to invite all local insurance companies to a meeting with Mr. Charlesworth and the Commission at City Hall.

R. Nichols said that this gentleman found the City significant savings to the City. The local agents were involved in this a couple of years ago. We should have him come here and discuss what he does with the City Commission.

Susan Bancroft said that the City has a contract with him and we need to approve this payment. You can opt out of this contract but this invoice needs to be paid. There is a process to opt out of the contract and it would need to be followed.

Lindsey Watts moved to approve the payment to Charlesworth Associates in the amount of $500.00. K. Allen seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE PAYMENT TO CHARLESWORTH ASSOCIATES IN THE AMOUNT OF $500.00.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: None

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute

limit per citizen) – None

  1. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

CONSIDERATION:

  1. Consideration to increase pool fees – City Manager said that he realized that this is probably not a good time to discuss increasing pool fees, but we have been planning on this for some time. City Staff is willing to hold off on this for this year. It is a tough time right now.

Mayor Mitchell said that with the COVID 19 and school being out now, weather permitting, we could open early. She thinks we should wait a year before looking at this increase. We don’t even know if we can open this year.

L. Watts said that she has heard that maybe this isn’t the best time to look at this increase.

Susan Bancroft said that there were three rates to be increased. The single pass is currently $65.00, and the recommendation was to increase to $75.00. The family pass was $150.00, and the recommendation was to increase to $175.00. The pool party rate was $100.00 per hour and the recommendation is to increase to $150.00 per hour. We are subsidizing about $80.00 for every pool party that is held currently. It is revenue and time after hours to have the pool parties. Susan said that revenues were down last year probably due to a very wet summer. She is also looking at internal controls at the pool.

Discussion was held regarding the times and hours and season of the pool.

No action was taken by the City Commission on this item.

  1. Consideration of painting/resurfacing Aquatic Center bids – Robert Uhler, Community Development Director, informed the Commission that bids were taken for the repainting and resurfacing of the pool. There were four bids received: Fort Dem Enterprises of Wichita, Kansas in the amount of $23,041.00; Insco Industries of Shawnee, Kansas in the amount of $31,140.00; Red Leaf Corporation of Fort Scott, Kansas in the amount of $32,349.00; and H2 Painting of Fort Scott, Kansas in the amount of $69,750.00. He asked for approval for the low bid of $23,041.00 from Fort Dem Enterprises.

Discussion was held regarding if this is a necessary project.

Robert said that it has not been repainted or resurfaced for six years now.

Discussion was held regarding the bids and if the low bidder had been called and checked out.

Robert said he has not done that yet.

It was the Commission’s consensus to table this item until the April 7th, 2020 meeting so Robert can check into the low bidder.

  1. Consideration to accept engineering proposal from Zingre’ & Associates for roof replacement at Wastewater Treatment Plant – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that the roof at the Waste Water Treatment Plant is actively leaking and needs replaced. It is approximately 30 years old. He asked for approval for the architectural services in the amount of $5,950.00 from Zingre’ & Associates for him to draw up specifications for the roof replacement.

Discussion was held regarding if this roof needs an architectural drawing.

Pete Allen moved to approve the amount of $5,950.00 from Zingre’ & Associates to draw up specifications for the roof replacement at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Lindsey Watts seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED THE AMOUNT OF $5,950.00 FROM ZINGRE’ & ASSOCIATES TO DRAW UP SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ROOF REPLACEMENT AT THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT.

  1. Consideration of bids for repairs to the Water Treatment Plant from fire – Michael Mix, Public Utilities Director, informed the Commission that bids were taken for the fire restoration at the Water Treatment Plant. This is being paid for by insurance funds. This was bid in four separate bids. The first was Contract for Cleaning Work. There were two bids received with the low bid from Home Center Construction of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $28,405.00; and Insco Industries of Shawnee, Kansas in the amount of $62,850.00. The second was for Masonry Restoration and Coatings. There were two bids received with the low bid from Home Center Construction of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $31,160.00 and Insco Industries of Shawnee, Kansas in the amount of $38,010.00. The third item is for Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Work. There were two bids received. The low bid was from Home Center Construction of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $32,315.00. The next bid was from CDL Electric of Fort Scott, Kansas in the amount of $43,310.00. The fourth item is for Window and Door Replacement. There were two bids received. The low bid is from Buildet, LLC of Nevada, Missouri in the amount of $45,000.00 and the next bid was from Home Center Construction of Pittsburg, Kansas in the amount of $51,250.00. He asked for approval of the low bid for each item as recommended by Zingre’ & Associates.

L. Watts moved to approve the low bid on all four items for the fire restoration at the Water Treatment Plant. R. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED LOW BIDS ON ALL FOUR ITEMS FOR THE FIRE RESTORATION AT THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT.

K. Allen brought up the topic of the replacement for the truck at the Water Treatment Plant from the fire and if it can be talked about.

City Manager said that it was scheduled for the next agenda. He asked if they would approve up to $15,000 to replace this truck.

K. Allen said he didn’t believe we needed to spend $15,000 and we can get a better deal than that. He said that he has a lot of sites that he looks at for vehicles and thinks he can find a good deal for the City. He asked for approval for he and Michael to work together to find a truck.

Kevin Allen moved to allocate $10,000 to replace the truck at the Water Treatment Plant. Randy Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO ALLOCATE $10,000 TO REPLACE THE TRUCK AT THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT TO BE PAID WITH INSURANCE FUNDS.

  1. Consideration of 2020 Budget changes – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance, asked the Commission to approve the recommended changes from the budget work session that she brought before them. This will decrease the budget to increase cash reserves. Departments internally will cut their budgets by 15% and utilities will cut their budget by 10%. We are unsure of what the revenues will be. Property tax could take a 15% cut and come in late. Sales tax could be cut by 25%. She asked that reductions be considered as discussed during the budget meeting.

P. Allen said that we need to work with the County and see what we can do to combine some of our services. He recommended a meeting with the County be set up.

K. Allen said that he would set up a meeting with the County. He will talk to the County Commission and determine if a meeting can be scheduled.

Lindsey Watts made a motion to approve the recommended 2020 budget changes. JoLynne Mitchell seconded. K. Allen, R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. P. Allen abstained. Motion carried 4-1.

APPROVED THE 2020 RECOMMENDED BUDGET CHANGES.

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2020 declaring a local State of Emergency and temporarily expanding the authority of the City Manager – Susan Bancroft, Director of Finance asked that consideration of the resolution be heard first before the ordinance. This resolution would give authority to the City Manager to make decisions to shut down facilities due to the COVID-19. This would also allow the City to move to once a month meetings instead of twice a month. This declares a State of Emergency for the local government.

City Clerk read the resolution to the City Commission.

Discussion was held regarding this resolution.

City Manager said that a lot of cities are doing this due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Randy Nichols moved to approve this resolution. Lindsey Watts seconded.

More discussion was held regarding this resolution.

Lindsey Watts withdrew her second to the motion.

The majority of the Commissioners decided they were available to attend a meeting and there was not a need for this.

The motion died for lack of a second.

  1. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3559 – Ordinance appropriating the amounts for each fund in the budget for the remainder of 2020 – Susan Bancroft said that this item can be removed from the agenda. This ordinance would allow the City to pay our bills if the Commission isn’t able to meet. She said that this ordinance can be changed from for the remainder of 2020 to whenever the Governor rescinds her Executive Order for the COVID-19.

This will be tabled until the April 7th, 2020 meeting when the Ordinance will be brought back before them with the changed wording.

  1. Consideration of approval of Fort Scott CDBG Small Business Relief Loan Fund Program – Rachel Pruitt, Economic Development Director, informed the Commission of new grant opportunities. She wanted to update them on what is going on in the Federal and State level with COVID-19. There was a new Executive Order issued today by the Governor in reference to unemployment benefits. The waiting periods have been lifted temporarily, and actively seeking work is not applicable at this time. This is from Executive Order #17. There is a website www.getkansasbenefits.gov if you are trying to apply for unemployment. She updated them on K.D.H.E. numbers for the COVID-19 virus. She recommended people work through their banks on any loans they are considering.

The City has received up to $260,709.35 for a CDBG Revolving Loan Fund directed towards small businesses with the highest risk of closing and/or laying off workers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this program is to retain existing jobs. If approved, there is a notice to publish the public notice announcing the availability of funds. Once we receive applications, she will send them to the State who will authorize them in a 48 to 72 hour timeframe. It is a short application. There is a maximum of $10,000 per business. This is defined as staff salaries and wages, purchase of inventory, utilities, rent, insurance payments, etc. Loans will be considered on a case by case basis. Loans are to stimulate job retention, not new hires. The business must have at least one full time equivalent low/moderate income employee. Owners are not counted as employees. Part-time employees can add up to this full time equivalent. A letter from the company/business must be attached attesting that the company’s cash flow is impacted due to significant changes in operation due to COVID-19. The business is either shut down or will be shut down due to COVID-19. No collateral is necessary, and no matching funds are necessary. Loan terms are forgivable if a business complies with required receipts or other proof to verify funding was used appropriately, and if the business is open for a period of twelve months. The twelve-month timeframe does not begin until at the Executive Order by the Governor has been rescinded. Proof of payment by copies of invoices, receipts, and payroll must be supplied. No outstanding debts prior to March 15th, 2020 qualify. Businesses with outstanding Ad Valorem tax obligations will not qualify.

Discussion was held regarding the amount of applications the City could receive and reducing the amount given so more could apply.

Discussion was held regarding if the City Commission should approve these applications first or not.

R. Nichols said that the State will decide who receives these loans. It would be very awkward to pick and choose who would get it as the City Commission.

Rachel said that the State has the authority to approve these applications and not the City.

R. Nichols moved to approve the Fort Scott CDBG Small Business Relief Loan Fund Program as presented. J. Mitchell seconded. R. Nichols, L. Watts, and J. Mitchell voted aye. K. Allen abstained. P. Allen voted no. Motion carried 3-1-1.

APPROVED THE FORT SCOTT CDBG SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF LOAN FUND PROGRAM.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

  1. Director Updates: None

B. City Commission:

Randy Nichols – Thanked all the individuals who are working hard with the COVID-19 pandemic. He thanked them all for working together for the betterment of the City and County.

Pete Allen – Pete asked if a decision had been made to have a meeting with the County.

City Manager said he would reach out to Lynne Oharah, Chairman, and set up a meeting.

Kevin Allen said that every quarter we need to meet with the School Board and College Board. Kevin said that he would talk to Lynne Oharah and get a meeting set up.

Randy Nichols asked that an agenda be made so we stay on topic.

Kevin Allen – He said that he thinks this Coronavirus has brought the City and County together.

He said he would like to see an Executive Development committee that is active. Steve Buerge has done a lot for this community. This committee needs to be aggressive.

The City and County need to join their efforts together.

He asked their opinion on the stop signs on National from the last meeting and if they need to be kept or removed.

Lindsey Watts said they needed to be kept. This was a huge part of the Smart Growth meetings for accessibility and walkability.

Pete Allen said that they are a nuisance and need to be removed.

Kevin asked about the school zone on Margrave and their thoughts.

Lindsey Watts said it could be shortened and the length is excessive currently.

Discussion was held regarding the expense to move the lights and signage.

Kevin said that he suggested a 20 mph sign be put up in the area that it would apply to and the hours around 10th Street.

Chief Travis Shelton said that this is a long school zone. He thinks maybe it incorporated the Middle School and Fort Scott Christian Heights when it was installed. Travis said that he could talk to the school officials and get their opinion also.

Kevin Allen made a motion to have Travis Shelton study this area and look at signage in this area. Randy Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO HAVE TRAVIS SHELTON STUDY THE SCHOOL ZONE AREA ON MARGRAVE STREET AND DETERMINE SIGNAGE IN A ONE BLOCK AREA.

His last item was the Fire Marshal. He was supposed to be at this meeting to talk about the code footprint. Has he been spoken to?

Kevin said he got an email saying he couldn’t attend. He wants to know if it is mandated by the State to have a code footprint.

City Manager said that he will check more on this subject.

Lindsey Watts – Nothing to report.

JoLynne Mitchell – Nothing to report.

C. City Manager: Nothing to report.

ADJOURNMENT:

Lindsay Watts moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:32 p.m. Kevin Allen seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 8:32 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on April 7th, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DIANE K. CLAY

CITY CLERK

Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott Commission Agenda for April 7

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AGENDA

FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

FORT SCOTT CITY HALL

COMMISSION ROOM

123 SOUTH MAIN

APRIL 7, 2020

6:00 P.M.

I. ROLL CALL:

K. ALLEN P. ALLEN NICHOLS WATTS MITCHELL

II. FLAG SALUTE:

III. INVOCATION: None

IV. PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS:

Fair Housing Month Proclamation – April

National Safe Digging Month Proclamation – April

National Service Recognition Day Proclamation – April 7, 2020

National Library Week Proclamation – April 19-25, 2020

National Library Workers Day Proclamation – April 21st, 2020

V. CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of March 31st, 2020.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1260-A totaling $736,063.92.

  1. Quit Claim Deed – City of Fort Scott to Margaret P. Cummings-3 ½” of alley (Amended legal description)

VI. APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: None

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 5 minute limit per citizen) Comments will not be taken during this meeting. If you have a topic to discuss not listed on the agenda, please contact a City Commissioner or send a written request to [email protected].

C. PUBLIC HEARINGS/COMMENTS: None

VII. CONSIDERATION:

  1. Donation of Lunette Blair Blockhouse to the National Parks Service

  1. Consideration of painting/resurfacing Aquatic Center bids

  1. Consideration of Resolution No. 9-2020 declaring a local State of Emergency and temporarily expanding the authority of the City Manager

  1. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3559 – Ordinance appropriating the amounts for each fund in the budget until the Governor rescinds her Executive Order

  1. Consideration of Request for Qualifications for a City Engineering firm.

  1. Consideration of Charter Ordinance relating to the filling of vacancies in elected public offices

VIII. COMMENTS:

  1. Director Updates: None
  1. Commission:
  1. City Manager:

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

I MOVE THAT THE CITY COMMISSION RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE

SESSION FOR ________________________________ IN ORDER TO

(see below justification)

DISCUSS ______________________________________. THE

EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL BE ___________ MINUTES AND THE OPEN

MEETING TO RESUME AT ________________.

Justifications for Executive Sessions:

  • Personnel matters of non-elected personnel

  • Consultation with an attorney for the body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship

  • Matters relating to employer-employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative or representatives of the body or agency

  • Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships

  • Preliminary discussions relating to the acquisition of real property

X. MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT: ROLL CALL

Government, Kansas

Governor signs bipartisan transportation plan into law

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Fulfilling promise to rebuild Kansas, signs two additional bills

 

Governor Laura Kelly today signed the bipartisan Senate Bill 173 creating the new 10-year Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program.

 

“This fiscally responsible program provides a visionary approach so that Kansas has the flexibility to address immediate needs and secure more opportunities for our future,” Kelly said. “Investing in Kansas’ infrastructure means putting people to work. It means fixing our roads and bridges. It means safer transportation for our most precious cargo — our children.

 

“I commend the bipartisan work of our legislators for the overwhelming support and approval of this legislation. Its swift passage is important to help the Kansas economy recover when this public health pandemic passes,” the Governor said.

 

Key elements of the program include:

 

o   Promises kept.  All remaining T-WORKS projects will be let to construction by July 1, 2023.

 

o   Highway preservation is prioritized. The legislation requires KDOT to establish metrics making sure highway preservation needs are fully funded before adding onto the highway system.

 

o   Rolling program ensures emerging needs can be met. Instead of a once-a-decade, 10-year set list of projects, new modernization and expansion projects will be selected for the development pipeline every two years.

 

o   Every region of the state will see modernization and expansion work sooner rather than later. The bill requires KDOT to develop minimum spending ranges for KDOT districts using a metric-driven process, and 40 percent of the minimum investments must occur within the first five years of the program.  T-WORKS projects must be delivered and are not included in the minimums.

 

o   Every Kansas county will receive at least $8 million in transportation improvements.

 

o   Broadband and new technology investments are included to facilitate internet expansion and prepare Kansas infrastructure for improved safety and communication.

 

“Sincere thanks to legislators and Governor Kelly for quickly approving this legislation,” KDOT Secretary Julie Lorenz said. “We have a lot of work to do. Beyond identifying projects for the development pipeline to garner potential federal stimulus funds, we need to deliver projects faster and at the highest value for Kansas taxpayer dollars.”

 

Work began on this program in 2018 with the creation of the Joint Legislative Transportation Vision Task Force.

 

“Including the Task Force and KDOT’s local consult discussions, 27 meetings were held across Kansas to gather input,” Sen. Carolyn McGinn, co-chair of the Task Force, said. “I want to thank the more than 2,000 Kansans whose input shaped a program that will create jobs, improve safety and protect our investments.”

 

KDOT is analyzing the bill, working on T-WORKS projects and will announce the addition of highway projects to the development pipeline soon.

 

In addition to Senate Bill 173, Kelly also signed House Bill 2595 and House Bill 2168 on Thursday.

 

HB 2595 removes the 30-day waiting period before offering surplus property for sale to the general public. Current law allows the Secretary of Administration, through the Kansas Surplus Property Program, to sell state surplus property to the general public only after the property has been offered to qualified individuals and entities for at least 30 days.

 

HB 2168 establishes a sunset date of July 1, 2030, for the Nursing Facility Quality Care Assessment and amends law concerning the hospital provider assessment known as the Healthcare Access Improvement Program (HCAIP).

 

Under the bill, the annual hospital provider assessment rate increases from 1.83 percent to 3 percent; taxable revenue expands to include outpatient net operating revenue; the hospital provider assessment is based on the net operating revenue for the hospital’s fiscal year three fiscal years prior to the assessment year; and distributions of hospital provider assessment revenues generated from health maintenance organizations are no longer include in the assessment law.

 

 

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Public Library Newsletter for April 2020

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Fort Scott Public Library Newsletter
April 2020

The Library Is Closed

The library will remain closed until the government and library administration deem it safe to reopen.
This edition of our newsletter will summarize some of the options available to you while the library is closed.
If you don’t want to receive future editions of the newsletter, you can unsubscribe by emailing the library at either [email protected] or [email protected].

Information about Physical Items

Library Items That Are Already Checked Out

Everything already checked out when we closed the library on March 16th has been renewed with a new due date of April 15th. We will extend that date as necessary, so don’t worry about overdue items.

If you want to return items, feel free to use our bookdrop, located near the 2nd Street entrance.
If you want to keep items until we reopen, that is absolutely fine with us.

Library Items That Are On Hold

If you weren’t able to pick up your holds before we closed, don’t worry. We will still have them here for you to pick up when we open.

If you have placed holds on items that aren’t here yet, those holds have been temporarily suspended. When we reopen, you will still have your spot on the holds list.
If you have tried to place holds since we closed, you have probably discovered you couldn’t do it. Until the library world is back to normal, you can’t place holds using your login. If you email us at either [email protected] or [email protected], we will place a hold for you on any items. These holds will also be temporarily suspended until we reopen.

Information about Digital Resources

Digital Only Accounts/I don’t have a library card

We have created a new type of account for people who don’t already have library cards. Go to our catalog www.seknfind.org and create a new account under the “Log in to your account” prompt. Be sure to pay attention to the password you are assigned. (We encourage you to log in and change the password to something more easily remembered.)

We will adjust these accounts daily so that you will have access to digital resources. If you would like access sooner, first create the account, then send an email to either [email protected] or [email protected] with your name and email address.
When we adjust the accounts, we will send you an email with your account number and information about setting up your accounts with hoopla and Sunflower eLibrary.

I have a library card but I need help with digital resources

First look below and see if anything here helps. If you still have any problems getting set up, please email me at either [email protected] or [email protected]. Include your name and account number plus a description of the problem.
You’ll need your library card number, your pin/password, and the email address you used when you signed up for your library card.
Anytime a site asks for your card number or account number, it means the entire 14 digit number. Ignore the spaces when entering it.
When you first set up an account with hoopla, it will ask you for your email and a password. Use the email you used for your FSPL account and create your own password. The next screen will ask for your library, library card number, and pin/password; your pin/password is the last 4 digits of your card number, or if you’ve changed it, use the pin/password that you changed it to. Hoopla has a limit of 15 items checked out per month. Usually it will send you an email near the end of the month if you have checkouts remaining.
Hoopla also has a new category of items that don’t count against your 15 item limit. These can be found by searching “Bonus Borrows”.
When you first set up an account with Sunflower eLibrary, you will need to choose Fort Scott Public Library and enter your FSPL account number and your pin/password. If you have an Amazon account, you can link eligible checkouts to it and read them on an Amazon Kindle reader enabled device.
Hoopla and Sunflower eLibrary (Overdrive) both have apps that you can download to a mobile device. The websites should direct you to the apps.

What if I want a Kansas Library eCard?
Kansas Library eCards provide access to ebooks, databases, and other resources through the State Library of Kansas. If you need us to set you up, send an email with your name, including middle initial, and your birthdate to [email protected] or [email protected], and we will get your account created for you.
You will need the Kansas Library eCard to access ebooks, but many of the databases are available without logging in if you are using the Internet in Kansas. You can experiment by going to https://kslib.info/ and clicking the “Online Resources” link.

Links to Digital Resources

Download ebooks, audiobooks, comics, TV episodes, movies, music, and more. You will need your library card login and the email address associated with it.

Download ebooks and audiobooks. You will need your library card login.

 
 
 
Download ebooks and audiobooks from the State Library of Kansas. You will need a Kansas Library eCard.

State Library of Kansas Online Resources

Search databases, learn a language, repair your vehicle, and much more! Some resources available without logging in if you are located in Kansas; otherwise, you will need a Kansas Library eCard.

Story Time

 Miss Val is planning some virtual story times this month!
 See our library Facebook page for the latest on her plans. She has been busily researching and planning this, so you know it will be AWESOME!

We Miss You and Hope to See You Soon. Be Well.
Fort Scott Public Library
201 S. National Ave.
Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
620-223-2882
fortscott.mykansaslibrary.org/
Entertainment

Public Library Is Going On A Bear Hunt

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“After a few weeks of adjusting to this new lifestyle and working to plan online programs, I am happy to finally announce FSPL’s first virtual storytimes,” Valetta Cannon, Fort Scott Public Library

Youth Librarian and Assistant Director, said.

The first week’s schedule will run as follows:

April 7:
10 am
Bears Storytime on Zoom (if possible, the meeting will be recorded and made available after it ends).
 11 am
Bears Storytime on Facebook Live (we may post the video on the library’s YouTube channel as well).
Join Miss Val online for the first virtual storytimes.
“Our first virtual storytime will take place through the Zoom platform, which can be fully accessed on any pc with a camera and headset, smartphone, or tablet with online access through the following link: https://kslib.zoom.us/j/725385019 ,” Cannon said.
Be sure to only click the link at the start of the meeting time. The full application will allow families to see and interact with one another, in addition to being a part of storytime. If you cannot access or do not want to use the full application, you still may listen in to the meeting by phone at either of the following numbers:

301-715-8592 or 253-215-8782.

“Thank you to Christy Peterson Graves for the suggestion of the subject: Bears. We will go on a bear hunt and share a simple craft together, after spending a few minutes socializing,” Cannon said.

“I will be filming the storytime in my house and reading ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ but will encourage participating families to put up bears for their neighbors to find as they walk and drive around town,” Cannon said.

This week’s craft:

Paper plate bear mask.
Materials required: Paper plate with the center cut out, craft stick, tape or glue, crayons, brown paper for cutting out ears (other colors welcome, too). Alternative materials: A styrofoam plate would also work, cut out circles from a paper bag can be used for the ears, any straight object that the plate can be taped or glued to, and colored pencils or markers also work for coloring.

“Thank you for your patience as we work out the kinks and launch this different version of storytime,” Cannon said.

For activity suggestions and more see the library’s Storytime Pinterest board.

Read digital books related to the theme at Sunflower eLibrary or Hoopla Digital (seknfind.org account required) or Kansas State Library Kids’ ebooks (for residents of Kansas only).
Check out the library’s Facebook page to track all upcoming events.

Bourbon County Local News