Bourbon County, Business, Government, Health Care

Bourbon County State of Emergency Declaration

Leave a comment

 

Sunday , March 22, 20202, Bourbon County Emergency Management announced the first confirmed case of COVID-19, Coronavirus, in Bourbon County. The announcement was followed by a Bourbon County Commission meeting where, after a short executive session, a COVID-19 Emergency Resolution was unanimously adopted. The resolution declares a state of local health public emergency within Bourbon County for 60 days or until recovered earlier.

Pursuant to the power granted to the Local Public Health Officer in KSA 65-119 et seq and the Emergency Declarations of the Governments, Becky Johnson, Public Health Officer, issued a mandate to go into full force and effect at 8:00 PM Sunday March 22, 2020. The order restricts or prohibits business activities for all non-essential businesses and made restrictions for essential business. The full mandate is available online at bourboncountyks.org/covid-19. Businesses with questions or concerns regarding the mandate can call the health department at (620)223-4464 for guidance.

Links to the United States Department of Labor (USDOL), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), the Department for Children and Families and GetKansasBenefits.gov will be available on one page to make it easier for Kansans to keep updated on the virus and resources available to assist them during this challenging time. at www.getkansasbenefits.gov For the most up to date information on the COVID-19 Coronavirus, go to https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus.

We understand the substantial impact COVID-19 has on businesses. The Small Business Administration (SBA) have offered low interest loans as a response. SBA Disaster relief loans are now open for all Kansas communities and available to apply online at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance. The loan is low interest; no higher than 3.75%.  Each loan is made on a case by case basis, with terms up to 30 years, are based on ability to pay.  The maximum amount of the loan is $2 million.  There are no lending institutions involved in this process, the loan is straight through the SBA.  

 

The State of Kansas is offering the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) loan. This is a zero percent interest loan for a maximum of $20,000 for 36 months.  There will be no principle or interest payment due for the first four months. You can apply online here:  https://www.kansascommerce.gov/covid-19-response/hospitality-industry-relief-emergency-hire-fund/https://www.kansascommerce.gov/covid-19-response/hospitality-industry-relief-emergency-hire-fund/

Loan funds can be used for current fixed debt and short-term working capital. Examples include making payments to commercial loan payments, commercial lease payments, utility bills, payroll, accounts payable or inventory. “We are encouraging businesses to consolidate fix debts into lower interest rate loans, while including short term working capital, when applying for relief loans,” Jody Hoener, Economic Development Director said. “We have intentionally made ourselves available to assist in the application process. Every day more and more businesses are reaching out.”

More information on the Bourbon County Economic Development or Emergency Management resources and assistance is available by contacting Jody Hoener, Economic Development Director, at 620-215-5725/[email protected] or William Wallace, Emergency Management, at 620-223-3800 ext 124/[email protected]

# # #

About Bourbon County Emergency Management (EM)

There are four key purposes to emergency management: Preparedness. Response. Recovery. Mitigation. Bourbon County Emergency Management (EM) is trained for disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. The COVID-19 pandemic poses a serious public health risk.  EM are the contact for state and federal emergency response programs for recovery of disaster situations. For most up to date information check out the Bourbon County Corona Virus Updates page.

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

Gardens Can Provide Some Food Security

Leave a comment
Krista Harding
District Extension Agent, Horticulture
Southwind Extension District
111 S. Butler
Erie, KS 66733
Office: 620-244-3826
Cell: 620-496-8786

 

Just like many of you, I’m having difficulty wrapping my mind around how quickly our lives have changed in a very short period of time. Seeing the panic and chaos that’s happening around us can be concerning. Now more than ever, it might be the time for folks to think about becoming more self-sufficient and grow some of their own food.

I have been in contact with a couple of our local suppliers and have seen social media posts that they are stocked with garden seed and supplies. Like many other local retailers, I know they are willing to work with you if you do not feel comfortable going inside the business. Just give them a call and arrange for outside pick-up.

If you are reading this and thinking to yourself that you have never grown anything in your life and just don’t think it’s possible, let me assure you that it is possible. Even for the most novice! You might be thinking that you don’t have space for a garden, or maybe you don’t have a tiller or other equipment. Don’t let that stop you because almost all vegetables can be grown in containers.

The containers don’t have to be anything fancy. Literally, anything that can hold soil and have drain holes drilled in the bottom can be used. Containers that are 16 to 24 inches in diameter work well. Containers less that 12 inches are probably too small – except for lettuces. The most important component of growing vegetables in a container is getting the right potting media. Potting mixes are ideal (instead of soil from your yard). The components are lightweight and hold water and oxygen much better. Make certain that you don’t forget to drill some drainage holes into the bottom of the container.

Fertilizer should be added at planting time and mixed into the soil. If you want to go the organic route, mix blood meal or bone meal into the soil before planting. If you use a synthetic fertilizer, add a slow-release type when preparing the container.

Another benefit to growing vegetables in containers – you don’t have to fight the weather quite as much. Right now, traditional garden soils are way too wet to even think about planting. But with the container system, you can keep them dry inside a garage until you are ready to plant.

Early spring is the ideal time to plant cool season vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, radish, onions, carrots and potatoes. All can be easily grown in containers, even potatoes!

Gardening is a great stress reliever. It also allows for good social distancing. If you have kids at home, gardening is the perfect activity to get them outside to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine, all while learning at the same time!

Here’s where I come in. I have lots of resource material to help you. In addition, I’m always available by phone, e-mail or social media to answer your questions. Don’t be afraid to ask! In Extension, we say there are no “dumb” questions! I am here to help you in any way that I can. The Extension mission continues. We are committed to being innovative to connect you with research-based resources and education. We appreciate your patience as we all navigate the challenges associated with this time. 

Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Agricultural agent assigned to Southwind District.  She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Bourbon County, Business, Health Care

Public Health Director Orders Non Essential Bourbon County Businesses to Close

Leave a comment

Public Health Director Rebecca Johnson sent the following order:

SEK MCHD 3-22-20 Order(1)

The order lists a number of businesses that will be allowed to remain opened and businesses that should be closed along with restrictions for the businesses that will remain open.

Grocery, healthcare, convenience stores, and gas stations will remain open but are encouraged to reduce social interactions as much as possible and use curbside service where feasible.

Bourbon County, Health Care

One Bourbon County Resident Positive For COVID 19

Leave a comment

SEK Multi-County Health Departments

Bourbon County, Kansas

PRESS RELEASE:

NOVEL CORONAVIRUS/COVID-19

March 22, 2020;

A Bourbon County, KS positive COVID-19 test was confirmed this afternoon. The testing has been confirmed through the KDHE laboratory in Topeka, KS. The Bourbon County Public Health Department is working diligently to investigate, identify and contact individuals who have been exposed. Updates to follow.

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

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

DO NOT go to a Clinic, Hospital, ER, or Health Department without calling prior to arrival

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO COVID-19 OR HAVE RETURNED FROM AN AREA WITH KNOWN CASES:

  • Remain at home

  • Call your local clinic/family physician’s office for questions regarding testing or your County Health Department.

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.

Tips:

  • Stay away from people who are ill
  • If you have a compromised immune system or are considered a vulnerable population, avoid large gatherings, face to face time, and practice social distancing
  • Stay home if sick
  • Practice personal hygiene habits including handwashing, covering your cough, and avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth
  • 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.htm
Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Special Meeting March 23 Agenda

Leave a comment

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: March 23, 2020

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

Special Meeting

For safety reasons, this meeting will be held via telephone, the public can view the meeting on Facebook at Bourbon County Kansas

9:00 the Commissioners to evaluate on when to re-open the Courthouse, a portion of this meeting will be in executive session

9:45 – Executive Session – Personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel

Fort Scott, Government

City of Fort Scott City Hall Closed To Public

Leave a comment

The City of Fort Scott’s City Hall will closed to the public until further notice. This is due to the CoronaVirus pandemic.

City staff will still be working and feel free to call City Hall at 223-0550 with any concerns you may have.

You can pay your utility bill or Municipal Court fine online at www.fscity.org and click on the Online Bill Pay button. There is also a drop box in the alley behind City Hall.

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Special Meeting March 22

1 Comment

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: March 22, 2020 – Special Meeting

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

6:30 pm – Emergency Declaration Meeting; the location of the meeting is in the Emergency Preparedness building located at 221 S. Judson, Fort Scott, KS 66701 – the Commissioners will be present at the meeting by telephone.

Government, Kansas

March 22, 2020 Public Update COVID-19

Leave a comment

Situation Overview
• This document is updated every afternoon and available on www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus.
• KDHE has created a toolkit of Kansas-specific guidance to help local public health departments engage with their community partners on COVID-19 planning. It can be found on the KDHE website: www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus. New information is added daily.

For more information: www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus
2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Kansas Test Results
Updated 3/22/20 at 10 a.m.

Total Positive Cases
64
Private Labs
34
Kansas Health and Environmental Lab
30
Deaths (included in above numbers)
Johnson and Wyandotte
2
Out-of-State Resident Positive Cases
(not counted in Kansas numbers)
2

Positive Case Information
County Number

Butler County
3
Linn County
1
Cherokee County
1
Mitchell County
1
Douglas County
4
Morris County
2
Franklin
1
Reno County
1
Jackson County
1
Riley County
1
Johnson County
28
Sedgwick
2
Leavenworth County
4
Wyandotte
14
* Ford and Miami Counties reported positive cases in out-of-state residents. Numbers included in cases home states. 2

Government, Kansas

Accessing Healthy, Safe Child Care

Leave a comment

Guidance for Supporting Families in Accessing Healthy and Safe Child Care During the COVID-19 Outbreak

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending continuity of operations for licensed child care facilities at this time (centers, preschools, day care homes and school age programs). Child care facilities may accept new enrollees in accordance with the terms of their license. However, depending on the unique and changing situations of each community, local public health officers may implement more restrictive guidance and provisions for child care facilities, up to and including closure within their authority and jurisdiction.

 

Child care providers should direct all questions to their local child care surveyor. Surveyors will coordinate efforts and communication with local public health officials to provide guidance based on the rapidly changing situation at the community level.

 

“We know this is a stressful time, and especially for families who rely on child care and those whose work circumstances are changing,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “There are a number of child care resources available to help you meet the needs of your family. We’re all in this together and will help families access the support they need.”

 

KDHE continues to accept and process applications for new child care facilities. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed provider are encouraged to contact their local licensing surveyor. Visit the KDHE Child Care Licensing website and click on Local County Contacts to find the surveyor in your area.

 

 

“Child care professionals provide a critical service in our state,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “They allow parents who are our doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters and more to respond to this pandemic. Child care facilities have very strict regulations regarding the number of children in the facility as well as health and safety guidelines that must continue to be met.”

 

For FAQs and guidance regarding child care operations during the pandemic, please visit the KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center website.

 

 

Options for families in need of child care

 

Many working families are facing challenges related to accessing healthy and safe child care during this time. We encourage everyone to assist with supporting families and communities as they work to develop creative solutions to meet the needs of working families.

 

Child Care Aware of Kansas provides assistance to families searching for licensed child care. They can be reached toll free at 877.678.2548.

KDHE has an online information system that serves as a tool to support families in making informed child care choices and can be used to review compliance history of a current licensed provider. The online tool is an important step to verifying that a facility is licensed and provides compliance history for parents and guardians.

Families that need flexible options or irregular care might consider having someone come into the home. Relatives, older siblings, and friends or neighbors currently not working due to COVID-19 related business closures might be available to help.

 

Other options for families that need limited care include informal care arranged between friends/neighbors on an irregular basis or someone to provide care in their own home for no more than two children for not more than 20 hours week. None of these options require a license from KDHE.

 

Bourbon County

American Legion Riders Skills Ride Postponed

Leave a comment
The American Legion Riders Chapter 25 basic skills ride for Saturday, March 28 is being postponed due to concerns about the Corona Virus.
The monthly ALR Chapter 25 is also cancelled for March.
As soon as a new date is set for the event, an email will be sent.
ALR Chapter 25  is still accepting new members. Members must be a member of or eligible to join the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion and own a motorcycle of at least 250 cc’s.
We also accept Legion family members from nearby Posts. You DO NOT have to transfer your post membership to join ALR Chapter 25.
Additionally, those persons who can no longer ride a motorcycle due to health reasons may also join ALR Chapter 25 if they still have their motorcycle endorsement.
Prospective Riders can call me at 620-215.1688 or email me at [email protected] for more information.
Carl Jowers. Post 25 Commander. ALR Chapter 25 Secretary

Bourbon County Local News