Obituary

Obituary of Donald Gene Cooper

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Donald Gene Cooper, 76, of Richards, Missouri, passed away early Thursday morning, April 17, 2025. He was born July 1, 1948, in Fort Scott, Kansas, the son of William Jay Cooper and Lois (Houston) Cooper. He married Linda Lewis May 23, 2003, and she survives of the home.

 

He is also survived by his sons, J.R. Cooper, William J. Cooper; his daughters, Rachel Wheeler, Elizabeth Underwood; sixteen grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two siblings.

 

Following cremation, the family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date. Services are under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

 

Fort Scott, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission on April 15

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of April 15, 2025                                                Regular Meeting

 

A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held  in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer, Matthew Wells, and Dyllon Olson were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD,  Chief Dave Bruner/FSFD, Deputy Chief Mike Miles/FSFD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Ben Hart/BakerTilly, Tom Coffman/Public Works Director, Craig Campbell and Michael Hoyt.

 

VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and BRUNER said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the citizens, and our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda (2:16)

Amendments of the agenda included removing item number (2) under Appearances – Ben Hart – GAAP Audit will be moved to May 6, 2025, and DANCER requested an Executive Session prior to adjourning the meeting.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the agenda as presented with the GAAP Audit being moved to the next meeting and the addition of an Executive Session after Reports and Comments. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Approval of Consent Agenda  (3:26)

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1382-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of March 26 – April 8, 2025 – $378,274.56

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of April 1, 2025

–  March Financials

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

                                                                

Public Comment

Michael Hoyt – (4:08) – opportunity available at the VA on April 22 & 23, 2025 –  6:00AM to 6:00PM to assist veterans with claims.

 

Appearances

Craig Campbell – (5:15) – FSHS All Class Reunion Parade Permit – Friday, June 27, 2025, at 6:00PM. Information was provided in the agenda packet.

MATKIN suggested a pre-event meeting with law enforcement, fire and EMS.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the request for the Fort Scott High School All-Class Reunion application for parade permit for June 27, 2025. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Unfinished Business

121 S. Margrave – Tabled from 3/18/2025 – (8:07) – WELLS provided a status and timeline on the following: Project is moving forward, financing is in order, and the layout is being finalized. It will be (30) to (60) days to get the utilities back up, (90) days for the beginning of the foundation work, and (120) days to have the addition moving forward. He has offered to the Codes department to do any safety precautions they require. Currently no one is going in or out of the house and it has no utilities.

 

ACTION:  MATKIN was directed to have the Codes Department look at the house/property one more time for any safety recommendations.

 

ACTION:  WELLS will fill in the cistern on the property at the request of KRUGER.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to table 121 Margrave for 120 days. SALSBURY seconded.

VANHOECKE, OLSON, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes.  WELLS abstained.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5 – 0.

 

118 E. Wall Proposals – (11:50)

(2) proposals were received to KRUGER and were presented to the Commission by email.

 

Discussion was had about the proposals.

 

MATKIN requested the Commission consider having FARMER draft an agreement to remove the “Red Tag” for (30) in order for the owner to obtain insurance.

Further discussion was had on options.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the decision until May 20, 2025, to see what develops. DANCER seconded.

 

OLSON, DANCER, SALSBURY and VAN HOECKE voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

New Business

Purchase of Fire Truck – (41:58)

BRUNER had come before the Commission in November 2024 to inform them of the need to purchase replacement trucks. He returned with information and prices. BRUNER and MILES formed a committee that did their due diligence and prepared research from different companies and apparatus for this meeting. Presented first was the need for a replacement rescue truck. It is the primary responder (89.6% of total call volume) for both the city and countywide emergencies. The truck was purchased in 2003 (chassis, pump and box). In 2014 the chassis was replaced and kept the pump and box on there. It is now becoming unreliable due to the age and demands placed on the vehicle. It is beyond it’s life expectancy of (10) years and has required high maintenance that is no longer feasible. BRUNER explained the ongoing issues and repairs including replacement of the engine and transmission and 126,000 miles on the vehicle. Other issues were explained as well. The prices submitted were: Weis $319,000.00; Conrad Fire $380,000.00; and Hayes Fire and Equipment $255,686.00. He is requesting to approve the proposal from Hayes. If approved, first due would be payment for the chassis $61,971.00 with a  (12) to (18) months build. The remainder would be paid when the truck is completed. BRUNER provided other data to illustrate the need for the replacement truck. He is asking for approval to proceed with the order and payment of the chassis. This purchase is in the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan at $250,000.00. BRUNER said that this price is locked in for (90) days. If there is any change in price, he will come back before the Commission.

 

MOTION:  WELLS motioned to move forward with the rescue truck from Hayes Fire. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

(51:05) – Discussion moved to the request to replace the pumper truck. BRUNER stated that in the Capital Improvement Plan for 2026 there is $850,000.00 to replace the 1997 E1 Truck. Currently the fleet has a 2019 pumper, 2020 tower, 2009 pumper, rescue truck and this 1997 E1. This is the last pumper they are looking to replace. The companies contacted were Pearce Manufacturing, Rosenbauer, Spartan and Fire Trucks Unlimited. Previous discussions in November included new trucks, used trucks and the possibility of refurbishing the 1997 E1. He stated that prices for both standard and custom fire trucks have risen 40%. He explained the purchase of used trucks, new trucks. The estimate to refurbish the truck came in at $602,547.00 from Fire Trucks Unlimited. It would take (12) to (15) months and would require a rental while the truck was being worked on in Las Vegas, NV. BRUNER confirmed with the insurance company that the replacement value would be for a 1997 truck not a 2025 truck. He gave an overview of the data he had for the use of the (3) fire trucks in the fleet. Prices received: Spartan Fire Apparatus $784,072 – lead time (11) months; Pearce Manufacturing $938,000.00 – (2) to (3) year lead time to build; Rosenbauer Fire $749,987.00. He explained the difference between side mount and top mount trucks and stated they would prefer to have a top mount truck. They were informed that in 2027 emissions are going to be increasing the price of fire trucks between $64,000.00 and $120,000.00. The 2019 truck will be paid of in 2029. He would prefer to have the truck paid off before moving to the next purchase, but the price increase projected will be a large increase in price to wait. He is recommending the Spartan truck for $784,702.00 with the estimated delivery time being February of 2026. That is when payment would be due. The (7) year replacement cycle falls in that plan for purchasing in 2026. The next truck to replace would be the 2009 truck in 2034.

 

Discussion was had regarding the prices and options.

 

HART explained the payment bridge and he supports him purchasing now, ahead of the budget process, due the anticipated price increases.

 

MATKIN left the meeting (1:06:46)

 

BRUNER stated they did go out for an AFG Grant for exhaust removal systems for both stations. The set priorities (and grants) for trucks on the AFG are few and far between.  He also provided the pre-pay discounts for the Spartan truck at signing: 100% payment = $26,000.00, 80% = $20,000.00, and 50% = $13,000.00.

 

ACTION:  BRUNER will confirm that the price (from Spartan) can be locked in at signing and cost for the top mount truck.

 

MATKIN returned to the meeting (1:09:09)

 

MATKIN was asked for his recommendation. He stated that he would recommend what BRUNER is asking to purchase. HART agrees with the caveat that the city cannot afford the $120,000.00 to $200,000.00 increase that is anticipated along with the 2027 emissions by waiting.

 

MATKIN stated that they did discuss the Sales Tax question on the upcoming ballot where he would like the Commission to consider adding Public Safety to the recipients to help fund this purchase as well as other public safety needs without having to raise the mill levy. He would also like to go out for bids on the finance rate.

 

BRUNER stated he would like to see what the trade-in value v. selling the old trucks. There is no additional training needed to operate the trucks being considered.

 

ACTION:  BRUNER will bring back requested proposals, look at lease options and find out about the Hayes top mount.

 

Consideration to Purchase Mower for Parks – (1:15:59)

COFFMAN stated that this purchase is to replace the 2013 currently in service. This mower takes care of all the lots and Gunn Park when assistance is needed. The current mower has approximately 5,000 hours on it, clutches have been replaced multiple times, it is beginning to show its age. The recommended model has a blower attachment which is easier to buy with the state contract. It is budgeted but there is more money than anticipated budgeted for this, so the turbine attachment was included. There are (3) old mowers that COFFMAN needs to include in an auction or haul off. (2) of the old mowers have been used for parts and this is why he is recommending staying with the same brand. The proposal submitted is a state contract through Blue Valley. The used mower may go to auction. The request is to purchase the Grasshopper mower with the blower attachment.

 

MOTION:  WELLS motioned, since it is a budgeted item, to move forward with the state contract of this particular mower. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

WELLS and FARMER left the meeting (1:21:49)

Revised Employee Handbook – (1:21:57)

MATKIN stated that the handbook revised in December 2024 had been sent to the Commissioners. He said that he could answer any questions they had but the request is to approve the revise. If the Commission had many questions or revision suggestions, he would suggest it be done in a work session.

 

WELLS returned to the meeting (1:23:04)

MOTION:  SALSBURY amended her motion to schedule a work session for 5:00PM on May 6th for discussion of the employee handbook. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments        

CITY ENGINEER (1:23:53)

– Horton Street update  –  DICKMAN will be on site to supervise the fog coating.

 

FARMER returned to the meeting (1:24:18)

 

HART left the meeting (1:24:22)

 

– East National Project – Earles would like to submit a proposal for plans. DICKMAN will honor the price that was proposed last fall when the project price total was submitted. He explained the choices the Commission has: cost proposal, statements of qualification and contract direct with the City.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to have Earle’s Engineering (the city’s engineer) do the design for the match project on East National. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

ACTION:  DICKMAN will send the contract to MATKIN this week.

 

ACTION:  DICKMAN will look at the areas of concern (grinding) on Horton Street raised by WELLS.

 

CITY ATTORNEY (1:33:39) – No comments.

 

CITY MANAGER (1:33:40)

– Electrical poles at airport are complete.

– Damaged fence at airport is being repaired and claim submitted to insurance.

– Signage at 6th & Horton for crosswalks – to be installed after lines are painted.

– Possible pedestrian crossing button due to visibility issues raised by WELLS.

– Staff working on quotes for Lake Fort Scott docks – (2) boat docks nearest to entrance

– Saturday concert moved to Memorial Hall due to weather – Theresa Deaton – 7:00PM – FREE

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY (1:36:41) – No comment

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS (1:36:46)

–  Upkeep of Memorial Hall, compliment improvement – Norm Nation

–  Lot on Wall St. – FARMER stated the city deeded it to a group with a (2)-year limitation on completing their project, which they did not do. The group deeded it to someone else, which they did not have authority to do. The city can enforce the original agreement and “claw” the lot back into the city’s control.

 

ACTION:  FARMER was directed to move forward on “claw back” of the lot.

 

– Comment to keep in mind that everyone makes mistakes.

COMMISSIONER OLSON (1:41:59) – No comment

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER (1:42:01)

– Apology to MATKIN regarding Facebook post.

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE (1:44:03)

–  Request for update on Moody Building – MATKIN was told they would be starting repairs the week of the 29th.

– 10th & Wilson – large hole that needs immediate attention.

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will have the Streets Department address the hole on 10th & Wilson.

 

–  Recognition of Holy Week.

 

Executive Session

MOTION:  DANCER motioned that the City Commission moved into an Executive Session for the purpose of establishing common understanding pursuant to the personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1). The meeting will include the (5) Commissioners, the City Manager, and the City Attorney. The open meeting will resume at 8:13PM. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to come out of Executive Session.  SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER motioned that the City Commission moved into an Executive Session for the purpose of establishing common understanding of roles and responsibilities pursuant to the personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1). The meeting will include the (5) Commissioners, the City Manager, and the City Attorney. The open meeting will resume at 8:25PM. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to come out of Executive Session.  DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:26PM (2:26:18). OLSON seconded.

 

APRIL 15, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:26PM.

 

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Obituary

Obituary of Betty Bernice Wiggans

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Betty Bernice Wiggans, age 95, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Via Christi Village in Pittsburg, Kansas.  She was born January 8, 1930, in Ft. Scott, the daughter of Reece William Powell and Mae Elizabeth Holt Powell.  Betty married Donald Wesley Wiggans on February 15, 1947.

Throughout the years, Betty had worked at the Todd Motel and also at the Red Barn Restaurant.   Betty enjoyed sewing and she had also taught herself how to play the piano.  She would often play the piano and sing country songs.  She enjoyed telling her grandchildren stories about the “Good Old Days.”  Betty loved to host Sunday dinners.  She was a long-time member of the Church of Christ at 15th & Crawford Streets.

 

Betty is survived by her daughter, Carla Fowler and husband, Mike and a son-in-law, Kenny Sharp all of Ft. Scott.  Also surviving are fifteen grandchildren, forty-two great-grandchildren and ten great-great-grandchildren.  Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, on April 20, 2004.  She was also preceded in death by a son, Bill Wiggans, three daughters, Susan Schnichels, Mary Sampson and Dawn Sharp, two grandsons, a great-granddaughter, six sisters and two brothers.

 

Pastor Steve Stencil will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Friday, May 2nd at the Church of Christ at 15th and Crawford.

Burial will follow in the Clarksburg Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Thursday, at the Cheney Witt Chapel

Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, PO Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Entertainment, Food, Fort Scott

Bourbon County Arts Council Presents Barnaby Bright Saturday, May 17th

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

Bourbon County Arts Council

Bourbon County

Arts Council

Presents

Barnaby Bright

Saturday, May 17th

Doors Open 5:00pm

Hearty Appetizer Buffet 5:30-7:30pm

Performance 8:00pm

Crooner’s/Liberty Theatre

113 S. Main Fort Scott, KS

Reservations Required

Tickets

$50 BCAC Member

$60 Non-Member

Contact

Terri Floyd 620-224-7221

Deb Anderson 620-224-8650

Click HERE to visit Bourbon County Arts Council’s Facebook Page.

Click HERE to visit Barnaby Bright’s Facebook Page.
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
Freeman Fort Scott Hospital

Freeman Health System, Fort Scott, Now Looking At Fall Opening 

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Closer to Completion: Freeman Health System is Providing for the Future of Fort Scott

                                     

Fort Scott, KAN. – Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. is still on track to open in 2025, with officials now looking at a fall timeline for the 10-bed general medical unit and 24-hour emergency department to be fully open and operational.

 

Because Freeman Health System is renovating the interior of an existing building – the city’s former hospital at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. – a vast majority of the progress taking place inside isn’t readily visible to Fort Scott and Bourbon County residents.

Regardless, all the work is progressing smoothly. When renovating a building of this size, however, it’s crucial to update everything inside to meet current building and safety codes and standards, meaning it must comply with current regulations for safety, structural integrity, and accessibility, said Renee Denton, Freeman Neosho Hospital’s Chief Operating Officer.

 

“I think it’s important for us to remember that the previous hospital operations and facility met required codes during that timeframe,” Denton said. “The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) requires that we open the facility according to current regulatory codes. Until we were able to begin the renovations, we were not able to lay eyes on every element that the state would require. Because of that, there are significant changes that need to occur to make certain that we update to the most current life-safety regulations.

“To be certain we address all elements to bring our leased area up to current code, we are finding that there are some improvements needed that have timelines not within our control,” she said.

 

The new hospital represents a critical need for the community. Fort Scott had been without a hospital since 2018, forcing local residents to seek medical treatment in communities 30-plus minutes away.

“I am pleased that, in my opinion, Freeman is doing everything that is controllable to bring Fort Scott an emergency room and hospital as soon as possible,” said Don Doherty, Chairman of the Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. Board of Directors.

 

Plenty of work has been underway at the former hospital building during the past year, including evaluating infrastructure capabilities needed to support the overall computer system, operability, and building the electronic medical record; evaluating and sorting through discarded equipment to determine what is operable; and identifying all new laboratory, radiology, and pharmacy equipment needed to support the new hospital and emergency department.

 

“We are 100 percent committed to getting that hospital up and going,” said Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer Matt Fry.

 

Along with the formation of the hospital’s six-member board of directors, Freeman held a job fair which resulted in the hiring of 39 new employees to operate the new hospital once it’s up and running later this year. The new employees are currently moving through the orientation process, but there’s room for more. Apply today by visiting jointeamfreeman.com.

 

“Staff already hired will be completing their orientation at various times over the next several weeks,” Denton said. “The plan to support staff who will be finished with orientation before the facility is fully operational is being communicated to those affected employees. Our goal is to be certain we take care of our employees and support them through this process.”

 

 

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About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2024, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers and their experiences. U.S. News & World Report named Freeman Health System one of the Best Hospitals for 2022. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopaedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.

 

Entertainment, Government, Kansas

Free Fishing and State Park Entrance Days for 2025

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Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Announces Free Fishing and State Park Entrance Days for 2025

TOPEKA – Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Secretary Christopher Kennedy has issued orders designating several Free Fishing and Free State Park Entrance days. The announcement was made at the April 24, 2025, Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission meeting.

The Free Fishing Days are June 7 and 8, 2025. On those days, anyone can fish by legal means without a Kansas fishing license. All length and creel limits still apply.

All Kansas State Parks will also offer free entrance on Saturday, May 3. Camping fees still apply.

“I encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy Kansas’ incredible natural resources,” said Kennedy. “Whether you’re casting a line, hiking a trail, picnicking on a beach, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, these days are meant to inspire connection with your family, friends, and the great outdoors.”

Along with these statewide events, Secretary Kennedy has also designated several park-specific Free Entrance Days that align with local events and programs designed to engage families, outdoor enthusiasts, and newcomers to Kansas state parks. These dates are as follows:

  • May 11 – Wilson State Park
  • May 17 – Milford State Park
  • June 7 – Cheney State Park
  • June 7 – El Dorado State Park
  • June 7 – Prairie Dog State Park
  • June 7 – Elk City State Park
  • June 7 – Glen Elder State Park
  • June 14 – Cedar Bluff State Park
  • June 14 – Historic Lake Scott State Park
  • June 14 – Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
  • July 4 – Cross Timbers State Park
  • August 16 – Hillsdale State Park
  • August 23 – Tuttle Creek State Park
  • September 7 – Lovewell State Park
  • September 21 – Webster State Park
  • September 27 – Clinton State Park
  • September 27 – Crawford State Park
  • September 27 – Fall River State Park
  • October 11 – Eisenhower State Park
  • October 11 – Meade State Park
  • October 25 – Kanopolis State Park
  • October 25 – Perry State Park
  • October 25 – Pomona State Park
  • October 25 – Sand Hills State Park

For more information about Kansas state parks, fishing opportunities, and upcoming events, visit ksoutdoors.com.

###

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of Kansas’s natural resources for the benefit of both current and future generations. KDWP manages 29 state parks, 177 lakes and wildlife areas, more than 300 public waterbodies, and 5 nature centers. Other services include management of threatened, endangered, and at-risk species, law enforcement, and wildlife habitat programs. For more information about KDWP, visit ksoutdoors.com.

 

Uncategorized

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson April 25, 2025

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Caryn Tyson
Even though the 2025 session ended a couple of weeks ago, several bills were recently signed into law. After a bill passes the legislature, there is a 10-day time frame to get it to the Governor.  The Governor then has another 10 days to sign or veto the bill, if not it becomes law without the Governor’s signature.  This week my update focuses on tax policy.  All legislation can be found at www.KSLegislature.gov.
No Personal Property Taxes on electric wheelchairs, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), snowmobiles, off-road motorcycles, golf carts not operated on the highway, motorized bicycles, trailers 15,000 pounds or less used for personal use, and watercraft.  A couple of years ago a constituent called and said she paid more property taxes on her ATV than on her home.  Coincidently, the president of the Kansas County Appraisers Association (KCAA) called me and suggested exempting certain items from property taxes, such as electric wheelchairs, ATVs, and such.  It took a few years, but we got it into law.
Property Tax Increase Notices, (CCR 2125) sometimes referred to as notices to exceed revenue neutral, printing and postage will be paid by the state for 2025 and 2026.  A few local officials will complain about the cost of the letter, but the state has offered reimbursement since the law passed.  It is the only advance notice of proposed property tax increases that taxpayers receive.  Last year, over 60% of the over 4,000 property taxing authorities remained revenue neutral, they did not collect more in property taxes than the previous year.  That would have never happened without the revenue neutral process in law.  The format of the letter will also include totals and a couple of other changes.
Property Tax Statements that county treasurers mail are now required to be mailed by December 1, instead of December 15.  Payments will still be due on December 20.
Local Government Budgets will be due to the county clerk by Oct 1, or the clerk will use the previous year’s budget and amount of property taxes to be levied.  Currently, local government budgets not exceeding revenue neutral are due Aug 25, and the rest are due Oct 1.  Why? Because it wasn’t changed when another statute was repealed, so I worked to make the change.
Filing Fees for the Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) will be good until the BOTA case for that parcel is heard.  It didn’t make sense that taxpayers had to pay the fee each year until the case was heard.
Property Tax Freeze for Seniors and Disabled Veterans was expanded by exempting Social Security from household income.  It was the only expansion we could get passed by both chambers.  I will continue to work on addressing the broken property tax system so more people are able to stay in their homes.
Head of Household and Disabled Veteran income tax filers will have an increased personal exemption.  Last year we increased personal exemptions and exempted Social Security from state income tax.  At a legislative coffee, I was thanked for my work on this.  It was very kind to hear, because I have worked diligently in leading this effort to get these and other tax cuts into law.
Countywide Sales Tax Apportionment will keep the current sales tax distribution of the countywide sales tax.  You may remember, county sales tax must be shared with municipalities unless specified differently.  That distribution is based off mill levies.  By keeping the current distribution until December 2026, this will allow counties to lower mill levies without decreasing sales tax apportionment for a year.  This should give the legislature time to change the equation so that counties attempting to lower property taxes will not receive less sales tax.
Sales Tax Exemption on Custom Meat Processing was passed into law last year, but the Department of Revenue was requiring a form be signed by each customer claiming the sales tax exemption.  This form will no longer be required.  The customer will be responsible for paying the sales tax if it is not custom for their own use.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
…
Bourbon County, Government

Revised Agenda for the Bourbon County Commission Today

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Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-5832
Bourbon County, Kansas
Brandon Whisenhunt, Chairman
1st District Commissioner
David Beerbower, Vice-Chairman
2nd District Commissioner
Mika Milburn-Kee
3rd District Commissioner
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room 210 S National Ave.
April 28, 2025, 5:30 PM (revised)
I. Call Meeting to Order
a. Roll Call
b. Pledge of Allegiance
c. Prayer – Susan Walker
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approval of Minutes from 04.21.25 & 04.22.25
IV. Consent Agenda
a. Approval of 04.25.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $52,567.96
b. Approval of 04.01.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $ 5,237.21
c. Tax Roll Corrections
d. March Financials
e. Quarterly Financial Report
V. Pest Control Bid Opening 5:35 PM
VI. Trash Service Bid Opening 5:35 PM
VII. Executive Session Non-Elected Personnel 75-4319 (b)(1) Susan Walker
VIII. Old Business
a. Condemned House City of Fulton – request for reduced landfill rates
b. Work Comp Procedures & Benefits – Susan Walker
c. Road Closure Application – Bradley Plaster
i. Road Closure Fees – Milburn
d. Human Resources
e. Sheriff Vehicle Request $66,914
f. Policy & Procedures
g. Budget
i. Schedule
ii. SEK Mental Health
iii. Juvenile Detention
IX. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
X. New Business
a. Michael Hoyt – Legislative Update
b. Mika Milburn-Kee
i. Operations & Job Descriptions
ii. Commission Communication to Employees
iii. Economic Development
iv. Workers Compensation & Sick Leave
c. Relocation of Offices – Shane Walker
d. Update on Sales Tax for ER – Susan Walker
i. Quarterly Reporting Request
ii. Financial Update
e. Eric Bailey – Department Updates
f. Executive Session Non-Elected Personnel KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) – Milburn
g. Executive Session Non-Elected Personnel KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) – Whisenhunt
h. Timberhill Township Cemetery Treasurer Recommendation – Rebecca Whisenhunt
i. Commissioner Comments
XI. Adjournment
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their
privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which would be
deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in
consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations,
partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters
at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.

Business, Fort Scott, Youth

New Splash Pad Restroom Is Nearing Completion

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The new public restroom at the Gathering Place Splash Pad is nearing completion.

Thomas Construction of Fort Scott employees poured concrete on April 25 at the new 12-foot by 14-foot public restroom project. The restroom is located northeast of the Pavilion, on North National at Old Fort Boulevard.

The restroom is handicapped accessible and has a changing station, said Luke Thomas with Thomas Construction.

The yet-to-be-finished inside of the restroom, which includes a changing station,  on the right.

According to Meredith Tucker, spokesperson for the Fort Scott Splash Pad and Sensory Park Committee, the restroom will be officially opened in mid-May.

The hours the restroom will be open are 7 a.m. to dark, seven days a week, coinciding with the splash pad, which will open in mid-May.

The restroom is a one-stall, family-style, Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant one, Tucker said.

“It has a changing bench built-in to help families with their loved one,” she said.

Elite Construction, Fort Scott, built the structure also installed some shading umbrellas at the adjacent Fort Scott Splash Pad and Sensory Park.

“The splash pad committee hired us to do it,” Derek Houdashelt with Elite Construction said.

“We received another grant from the Timken Company and Walmart Inc.,” Tucker said.

The committee is comprised of Tucker, Bailey Lyons, and Josh Jones.

“The committee has done the bid-letting,”  she said.

A Fort Scott Splash Pad and Sensory Park shading device at right, with the new restroom with changing station in the background left.
Two shading devices have been installed on the north side of the Fort Scott Splash Pad and Sensory Park.

The Fort Scott Splash Pad and Sensory Park was a grassroots project that opened in 2023, according to its Facebook page.

Government

Weekly News From Congressman Derek Schmidt

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Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

 

I had a busy week back home in Kansas, crisscrossing our Second District meeting with the people I’m blessed to represent. After weeks in Washington, there’s nothing better than being able to spend time back home with Kansans.

Addressing Local Business Leaders

This week I spoke at the Greater Topeka Partnership’s Legislative Luncheon.

I highlighted the latest news from Washington, DC, with a specific focus on taxes and tariffs. A failure by Congress to extend President Trump’s highly successful 2017 tax cuts would be a disaster for every family and small business in Kansas and across the country. Getting the tax, spending, border security, defense, and debt limit package that allows us to extend these cuts across the finish line is one of my top priorities.

 

The President has repeatedly stressed how important protecting and strengthening domestic manufacturing is to him and his administration. As he said would be the case, tariffs are one tool the President is using to accomplish this goal. I remain confident that his economic plan will continue to yield large investments in our nation while benefiting important Kansas industries like agriculture and aviation, and at the same time I’m keeping close watch on how tariffs and the response to them are affecting U.S. exporters and consumer prices.

 

Connecting with local businesses, community leaders, and state & local officials is the best way to ensure the federal government is being a good partner to our communities here in the Second District. Thank you to everyone who hosted us or attended; I truly appreciate it!
Supporting Survivors of Human Trafficking

Human trafficking remains a widespread crisis in the United States. As Kansas’s top law enforcement official for more than a decade, I know firsthand the effects of trafficking last long past the time victims are removed from trafficking. Unfortunately, victims are sometime convicted of crimes such as financial fraud, drug-related offenses, and identity theft that they were forced or coerced into committing by their traffickers.

 

As we work to end the scourge of human trafficking in Kansas and across our country, we must also ensure we’re adequately caring for the survivors. That’s why I joined Representatives Russell Fry from South Carolina, Ann Wagner from Missouri, and Ted Lieu & Robert Garcia from California to cosponsor the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act.

 

Crimes committed by trafficking victims due to threats and coercion should be considered differently by federal courts; this legislation would establish an affirmative defense to provide survivors with the opportunity to defend against charges that arose directly from their being trafficked.

 

Importantly, for a court to grant a motion to vacate a conviction or expunge an arrest, a defendant must show by a preponderance of the evidence that the offense was committed as a direct result of having been a victim of trafficking. Additionally, the defendant must establish, by clear and convincing evidence, that the defendant was a victim of human trafficking at the time the offense was committed.

Touring Washburn University

I visited Washburn University, where I joined Law School Dean Jeff Jackson to tour the recently opened Robert J. Dole Hall.

The state-of-the-art facility opened two years ago to house Washburn’s law school, which has been producing practice-ready lawyers for more than 100 years. After receiving an in-depth tour, I can attest that the building is a fitting tribute to Washburn alumnus and great Kansan Bob Dole.

 

Thank you to Washburn University President JuliAnn Mazachek – who’s been a leader at Washburn and in our Topeka community for 30 years – for showing me around campus. We’re lucky to have such a prestigious university right here in the Second District.

Sanctuary Cities

“Sanctuary city” policies have been in the news a lot over the past few years. These jurisdictions refuse to cooperate with federal authorities in the deportation of illegal aliens. For example, if an illegal alien is arrested for a crime unrelated to their immigration status, local and state sanctuary city policies can prevent law enforcement from notifying federal authorities of their arrest. Even if federal immigration officials become aware of the arrest, the sanctuary city authorities don’t alert Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when an individual is being released, even if ICE requests they do so. This can – and often does – result in criminal illegal migrants traveling to other states and committing additional crimes. I think most Kansans would agree these policies are absurd.

 

Our House Judiciary Committee recently held a hearing on this subject, where I highlighted how these far-left, out of touch policies have real world impacts.
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Thankfully, we saw the dangers of sanctuary jurisdictions and banned the practice statewide in Kansas in 2022. Unfortunately, not every state is as commonsense as ours, and sanctuary city policies are still in place in Massachusetts, California, and many places in between.

 

The American people made their voices heard in November when they indicated they were tired of open borders and nationwide chaos. I hope state and local lawmakers listen to them.

I’ll be back in Washington next week as Congress continues to do the important work of cutting waste, fraud, and abuse out of the federal government and slowing the rate of overspending that’s threatening to saddle generations to come with insurmountable debt. This is a real chance for us to make a lasting difference; I’m working to ensure we don’t waste it.

Bourbon County Local News