Opinion

DIY and DYI by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom

By Carolyn Tucker

DIY and DYI

My late husband was definitely a DIY guy. Whatever needed to be built, he built it. Whatever needed to be repaired, he repaired it. I watched him repair my washer and dryer and many other things even though he had no previous experience with those appliances or items. I learned early on in our marriage not to despair when something malfunctioned or flat-out bit the dust. It didn’t matter what it was, he could fix it. One day I was visiting with my daughter about working on a project and I got mixed up and called it DYI and she immediately labeled it “Do Yourself In.” I thought that was both funny and true.

Some projects are fine to do yourself. But some things (like life) won’t turn out well if you attempt to do it all by yourself. Believers can “do ourselves in” trying to live without God’s grace and strength. It’s a nonbiblical and miserable way to live when we only trust in ourselves. We can strive and struggle to do things on our own, or we can invite God to be I AM like He was for Moses.

In the Book of Psalms, David is praising God because He rescued him from all his  enemies. David is declaring that he constantly trusts God to take care of him. “The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and He saved me from my enemies“ (Psalm 18:2-3 NLT). In today’s culture, worry, stress, and anxiety would be considered enemies, along with many other  troublesome emotions and distressing situations.

Life, even on a good day, is too complicated to think you can do it yourself. I know of a minister that was curious and asked the Lord, “What would my life be like if the Holy Spirit wasn’t involved?” After that honest question, the man (who was also a musician)  said he couldn’t think clearly to choose the songs and play piano for the church service. He had to ask someone else to lead the worship. In addition, he couldn’t even style his hair! The minister quickly found out he couldn’t really do anything without the Holy Spirit’s help. It would appear that believers take God’s involvement and guidance in our daily lives for granted.

If we want to fix something, let’s do it the way Paul told Timothy to do it: “I have [fixed my] hope on the living God, Who is the Savior (Preserver, Maintainer, Deliverer) of all men, especially of those who believe (trust in, rely on, and adhere to Him)” (1 Timothy 4:10 AMP). Believers are supposed to adhere to God like an adhesive bandage sticks to our skin. Like an athlete, we have a spiritual race to run in order to win the crown of life. Our endurance is undergirded by trusting in the living God to get us over the finish line. But no one is going to even get close to the finish line with a DIY attitude and theology.

We can rely on this truth: “I can do all things because of Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 MEV). Abiding in Christ is the secret to accomplishing whatever He has called us to do. And relying on Christ for His strength and empowerment will get us through life’s challenges without breaking down.

The Key: Don’t DYI by thinking you can DIY.

K-State Extension

Assistive Technology: Tools for Independence and Inclusion by Tara Solomon-Smith

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Tara Soloman-Smith, Family and Wellness Agent, Sunflower District of Kansas State University’s Extension Office. Submitted photo.

Assistive Technology: Tools for Independence and Inclusion

Assistive technology (AT) is any tool or device that helps individuals perform tasks more easily and efficiently. From simple items like glasses and step stools to advanced devices like eye-controlled computers, AT empowers people of all abilities to make daily living easier.

AT supports a healthy, productive, and dignified lifestyle. It can:

  • Extend independence and reduce reliance on caregivers
  • Enable longer workforce participation
  • Prevent injuries and functional decline
  • Promote inclusion and community living

Some common everyday examples include:

  • In the kitchen – there are grip foam handles for silverware, cutting boards that hold food in place, a drinking straw holder, and more.
  • Around the house – Programmable thermostats, robot vacuums, grab bars, handrails, and more.
  • Dressing and bathing – Buttoning aids, zipper pulls, long shoehorns, one-handed belts, and more.
  • Communication – Pens and pencils with special grips, talk-to-text devices, electronic screen readers, and more.
  • Cognition and memory – Audiobooks, identification bracelets, note-taking systems, and more.
  • At work or on the farm – Ergonomic workstations, anti-fatigue mats, swivel seating, and more.

To get started, ask yourself:

  • What tasks are complex or frequently forgotten?
  • Is there a more straightforward or more affordable solution?
  • Can I try the device before buying?

Consult professionals like occupational therapists, audiologists, or medical supply staff for personalized guidance.

You can learn more by exploring resources like:

Assistive technology isn’t just for those with medical needs—it’s for anyone seeking greater ease, safety, and independence in daily life. For more information or to schedule an Assistive Technology presentation, please get in touch with Tara Solomon-Smith, [email protected], 620-244-3826.

Government

U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt Newsletter

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Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

 

A full month has now passed in this unnecessary and frustrating government shutdown.

The situation remains mostly unchanged. The Senate has still been unable to pass the bipartisan bill passed by the House more than a month ago to reopen the government, because Sen. Schumer and most Senate Democrats are maintaining their filibuster of that clean continuing resolution. The Senate could also pass a different bill—some kind of different approach—and send it back to us in the House to consider.

In the meantime, this week I announced that I will cosponsor legislation that would keep SNAP and WIC benefits from being cut off during the shutdown. If a minority of U.S. Senators keeps refusing to fully reopen the government, then reopening critical parts of the government like food assistance is better than nothing at all.

I have also cosponsored standalone legislation to pay U.S. troops and air traffic controllers. In the absence of congressional action, I have also supported actions by the Trump administration to reallocate funding within the limits of the law to meet urgent priorities, including paying U.S. troops and law enforcement officers, temporarily extending funding for the Women, Infants and Children nutrition program, and reopening Farm Service Agency offices.

Going forward, I have also has cosponsored legislation to prevent future government shutdowns by continuing current funding levels whenever Congress allows annual appropriations to lapse and a Constitutional Amendment that would prohibit Members of Congress from receiving pay during a government shutdown.

I remain hopeful that this shutdown will soon be resolved. This week the largest federal employees union came out in support of the House’s clean continuing resolution. Major aviation industry and labor organizations also announced support for the House bill. Meanwhile, the bipartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget this week called the Democrat’s $1.5 trillion proposal to reopen the government, “the most expensive reopening package ever considered.”

It’s time for this unnecessary shutdown to end, allowing us to get back to the important work of slowing government spending, codifying President Trump’s border security policies, and reducing the intrusion of big government in the lives of Americans.
Constituent Services

As a reminder, my offices in Washington, Topeka, and Pittsburg remain open, despite the shutdown, and available to help with federal agencies including the VA, Social Security, and the IRS.

 

Regrettably, our ability to help with some situations may be affected, as many departments and agencies will not be processing casework during the shutdown. However, that work will resume once federal funding is resolved. If you are experiencing an issue with a federal agency, please call my office at (785) 205-5253 or fill out the form on our website, and we will work with you on the paperwork that must be completed so we can file your case as soon as we are able.

 

View the FAQ on my website about which government services are affected by the shutdown.
Good News for Kansas Farmers

I was encouraged by the trade developments this week as President Trump met with leaders across Asia. The administration announced China will be buying 25 million tons of soybeans per year for the next three years. Sorghum and other agricultural products are also reported to be part of this trade deal.
Around the District

Recently, I visited Pretech Corporation in Kansas City, which produces a variety of precast concrete products for customers across the country. I also visited “The Americans” traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian at the Iowa and Sac & Fox Museum near Highland. The exhibit showcases the many ways Native Americans have been a part of our nation’s history.
On the Air

Earlier this week, I joined Pete Mundo on KCMO Radio to discuss the shutdown, and proposals to continue funding for SNAP. Listen here.
Visiting with Kansans

Thanks to Kansans participating in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Summit and representing the American Heart Association for visiting my Washington, D.C., office this week.

As always, my office is here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Be sure to also follow me on social media at the links below for timely updates from my office.

 

It’s a tremendous honor to represent our Second Congressional District in Congress!

Sincerely,

Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress
Government, Kansas

Ks Governor Sues Attorney General

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Governor Kelly Sues Attorney General Kobach in Kansas Supreme Court to Protect
Governor’s Constitutional Authority


TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly filed a lawsuit against Attorney General Kris Kobach in the Kansas Supreme Court to protect the State of Kansas and the constitutional powers of the Office of the Governor. The lawsuit is necessary due to Attorney General Kobach’s failure to defend Kansans against the Trump Administration’s unlawful federal overreach, despite repeated requests from Governor Kelly to do so.

“Time and again, Attorney General Kobach’s blatant partisanship is on display, harming and embarrassing Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While he was quick to sue the previous presidential administration, alleging he would protect Kansans from federal overreach, he has not once followed through on that claim now that the Trump Administration has repeatedly done just that. Not only has the Attorney General’s willful ignorance undermined my administration’s efforts to protect Kansans, but it has also cost our state millions of dollars for essential programs and services. If the Attorney General refuses to stand up for Kansas, at least Kansans can rest assured knowing that I will.”

The Attorney General’s refusal to stand up for the State of Kansas has prompted Governor Kelly to join two recent federal lawsuits. The most recent being the lawsuit against the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) seeking release of congressionally approved emergency funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides food assistance to nearly 188,000 Kansans. November benefits for this program are not expected to be available due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This unprecedented choice made by the Trump Administration and Congress will have dire consequences for the health and well-being of millions across the country, who rely on the program to feed themselves and their families. More information about this lawsuit can be found here.

In August, Governor Kelly also joined a lawsuit seeking to prevent the Trump Administration from unlawfully terminating congressionally approved funds for several public health and safety programs including testing for lead in schools and child care facilities, environmental cleanup, ensuring the safety of dams, and financing to improve drinking water safety. More information about this lawsuit can be found here.

In September, Attorney General Kobach filed suit against Governor Kelly and the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) asking the court to force the Governor and DCF to turn over the personal information of thousands of Kansans in response to an unlawful federal request. Governor Kelly and DCF successfully dismissed Attorney General Kobach’s egregious attempt to compromise the privacy of thousands of Kansans.

Attorney General Kobach has previously incorrectly asserted that he alone controls litigation on behalf of the State of Kansas. The Kansas Constitution makes clear that the governor is the ‘supreme executive’ of the state, meaning that Governor Kelly has the constitutional authority to control the decisions of the executive branch.

The lawsuit Governor Kelly filed today asks the Kansas Supreme Court for an order in quo warranto against the Attorney General to prevent him from intruding on the Governor’s ‘supreme executive’ power as the head of the executive branch so she can continue to defend Kansans without interference from Attorney General Kobach.

A copy of the lawsuit’s petition can be found here and a copy of the memorandum in support can be found here.

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Opinion

Letter to the Editor: Mika Milburn-Kee

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In reflection of this week’s meeting, we covered a lot of important topics, and I’d like to expand my perspective a little, regarding several of them.

I fully understand and share the frustration of residents who are being affected by the constant noise from industrial operations like Bitcoin mining. No one should have to lose sleep or peace in their own home. At the same time, the Commission needs to be very careful about creating new noise resolutions or restrictions that could unintentionally impact farmers, small businesses, and others. Because our county is not zoned, we don’t currently have a framework to distinguish between residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial uses. That’s one reason this issue is so challenging. Rather than rushing to pass new regulations that might limit everyone, I believe we need to look for solutions that directly address the immediate problem while we work toward a balanced, well-thought-out long-term plan. I must respect both the rights – and the quality of life of the people who live here. I don’t believe government should overreach, I do believe in being good neighbors, whether individuals or companies, we need to be working together to make our community a great place to live. I’ve also observed some unrest regarding the commission’s decision to modify our payroll process. While it’s common for transitions like this to generate discussion, I believe the degree of unrest expressed is not fully justified given the intent and expected outcomes of the change.

After our update from our IT partner, I’m encouraged by the progress we’ve made in transitioning to managed IT services. This move modernizes our technology and stands to align the county with current industry standards, an important step toward greater efficiency and security.

I appreciate our Sheriff and his team from Enterprise for taking the time to present information to the commission and for their continued efforts to provide additional details. However, at this point, I’m still not comfortable supporting the proposed lease agreement and here’s why; the cost figures we’ve received so far have varied from meeting to meeting, and we still don’t have a clear plan for how the county would fund this long-term. Until we have consistent numbers and a comprehensive funding proposal, I believe it’s more responsible to continue with our current approach of purchasing as needed. I look forward to reviewing a complete and accurate cost analysis and funding recommendation from the Sheriff’s Office at our next meeting.

Health insurance costs are also rising again this year. According to our broker, the county’s insurance pool used about 117% of the premiums we paid in, meaning we paid out more in claims than we collected. As a result, our rates are projected to increase by roughly 17%. We all know how valuable our insurance coverage is, and we want to keep it strong. But with our limited tax base, we simply can’t continue increasing county expenses at that rate. What I’m proposing is that the county continue to pay the same amount toward insurance as last year, (which, according to our broker, is still higher than what comparable employers contribute). Employees would then have the choice to keep their current plan and pay the difference or move to a lower-cost option. I understand that may be frustrating for some, but it’s a responsible step to help us get these costs under control while still offering solid coverage. My goal is to find a fair balance that protects both our employees and the taxpayers who fund these benefits.

I have also fielded questions about why I didn’t support stacking reserves this year. My position is simple, I’ve observed county operations over time and patterns tell me when we levy it, we spend it. Were then no better off the next year when it comes to assets or financial strength. I’m not against planning for the future, but I believe we need a clear, detailed plan for how any new tax dollars or reserve funds would actually be used before we ask our taxpayers for more. That’s just good stewardship.

Citizens of Bourbon County Thank You

Mika Milburn-Kee

 

Area News

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SOUTHEAST KANSAS ANNOUNCES WILL NORTON AS NEW DONOR ENGAGEMENT OFFICER

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The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) is excited to announce the hiring of Will Norton as its new Donor Engagement Officer!

Will comes to CFSEK and its affiliates, the Columbus Area Community Foundation, Fort Scott Area Community Foundation, and the Girard Area Community Foundation, with a passion for networking and a love of community. He will be leading CFSEK’s donor engagement efforts, which includes building relationships with donors and organizations to assist them with achieving their charitable goals.

“We are thrilled to welcome Will to the team,” said Devin Gorman, CFSEK Executive Director. “He is a great fit for this newly created position, which will help the Community Foundation provide better engagement and outreach across Southeast Kansas. The more connections we build, the more resources and funds we can provide back to our communities.”

A native of Dallas, but a graduate of Chanute High School, Will attended Pittsburg State University, receiving his undergraduate degree in fitness management and his master’s degree in physical education. He was also a Sigma Chi, where he later served as a chapter advisor. He most recently worked for Backyard Discovery as an account manager.

“I’ve been fortunate to meet a lot of great people in Southeast Kansas,” Will said, “and I am passionate about building relationships with people, so this is right up my alley!”

When Will is not working with donors, he can be found supporting his 3 kids at their school events, playing poker, being a singer in a band, or tinkering with cars.

When asked about his new position, Will had this to say, “I am so excited to get to do some good for this community, because I love this Southeast Kansas community we all get to call home!”

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas has awarded over $2.3 million in grants from all foundation funds in 2025 and has facilitated over $25 million in grants since its inception in 2001. CFSEK serves the region by providing donors with a wide variety of charitable interests and encouraging charitable giving, which addresses present and future needs in our area. More information about CFSEK is available at SoutheastKansas.org.

 

Elections, Government

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall Newsletter

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Image

Associated Press: 4 Republicans back Senate resolution to undo Trump’s tariffs around the globe.

RFD-TV: Sen. Roger Marshall: China’s Investment in U.S. Sorghum Could Pressure Mexico to Buy More.

AgriPulse: China to buy 25 million tons of soybeans annually, near recent average.

MSNBC: Drought is causing high beef price: Senator defends Trump’s Argentina plan.

Fox News: We’ve almost got Chuck Schumer where we want him, says Sen. Roger Marshall.

Bloomberg: Trump, Xi Likely to Pursue Trade Truce, Not Transformation, at Summit.

Real Clear Health: Healthcare Price Transparency Is the Shutdown Solution.

Axios: Food giants enlist new allies in war over RFK Jr.’s food dye bans (Axios).

Newsmax: Senators Target Abuse in 340B Drug Discount Plan.

Washington Post: A decade of dramatic GOP change since Paul Ryan became speaker.

Inside Health Policy: Advocates Hopeful Price Transparency Can Be Bipartisan Priority Once APTC Standoff Ends.

JC Post: Reports: China buys several shiploads of U.S. soybeans ahead of Trump trade meeting.

KCLY: Kansas Congressional Delegation Suspends Pay amid Federal Government Shutdown.
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Fox News: FBI thwarts ‘potential terrorist attack,’ arrests multiple people in Michigan, Patel says.

Newsmax: $12B in Trump Farm Aid Ready but Stalled by Shutdown.

Fox Business: Mortgage rates fall for fourth consecutive week, lowest level in over a year.

Daily Wire: The Nation’s Top Businesses Push For End Of Government Shutdown.

Fox News: Trump’s war on drugs stops at Mexican border — for now.

Newsmax: Trump: Trade Deal With South Korea Reached.

NBC: Pete Hegseth says U.S. carried out another strike on alleged drug boat in Pacific Ocean, killing 4 people.

Fox News: Trial begins over Trump’s fight to deploy National Guard troops to Oregon.

Hays Post: As the Medicare enrollment window opens, a new study gives Missouri, Kansas below-average scores.

KCTV5: Kansas City air traffic controllers speak out as government shutdown continues.

Fox 4: Kansas governor says she won’t get into Chiefs, Royals bidding war.

AP: Venezuela’s Maduro says the US is fabricating a war and seeks to revoke citizenship of opponent.

BBC: Trump raises tariffs on Canadian goods over Reagan advert.

KWCH: Hutchinson firefighter recognized for lifesaving efforts during Disney vacation.

KWCH: Third teen arrested in murder of Kansas congressman’s intern.

Salina Post: The Salvation Army of Salina steps up to meet the need as SNAP assistance remains on hold.
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Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Issues Statement on Order in SNAP Benefits Case

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today issued the following statement after a federal judge in the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts issued an order finding that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) must use its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) contingency funds to fund the program during the ongoing federal government shutdown. The Court also found that if the contingency fund cannot fully fund the program in November, then the federal government must consider other additional funding sources. The USDA has until the end of the day on Monday to let the Court know whether their plan is to partially or fully fund the SNAP program.

“The Court’s decision today makes clear that the Trump Administration has acted unlawfully in its attempt to withhold November SNAP benefits from millions of Americans, including nearly 188,000 Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund this program so Kansans can continue to feed themselves and their families. While this ruling is a step forward, I urge the USDA to act swiftly to comply with this order and issue November benefits to prevent 42 million Americans from going hungry.”

The order comes after Governor Kelly joined a coalition of 22 attorneys general, two governors, and the District of Columbia in suing the Trump Administration for suspending SNAP benefits in a manner that is both contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act.

Today’s order makes clear that USDA must use contingency funds to pay for SNAP benefits. The USDA must present a plan to the court by Monday, November 3, to begin issuing SNAP benefits (full or partial).

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Uncategorized

Special Fort Scott Commission Meeting On November 1

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR SPECIAL

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

November 1, 2025  –  10:15 A.M.

              

        

                                                          

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call

 

  1. Pledge of Allegiance

 

III.       Approval of Agenda

 

  1. Executive Session

 

 

 

  1. Reports and Comments

 

 

  1. Adjourn

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

KS Commerce Launches New Program to Power Research, Innovation

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of ACCEL-KS – Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program (Phases 0 and 1), a new initiative to help Kansas innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers compete and win in the national innovation arena. The program will enable Kansas to leverage federal funding and research and development opportunities more effectively through strategic partnerships that help companies enhance their global competitiveness while strengthening the state’s role in advancing national security.

“As called for in the Kansas Framework for Growth, this program will allow strategic investments in our state’s innovation economy and our talented innovators,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By supporting high-quality proposals and helping Kansas companies commercialize their technologies, we are strengthening our state’s competitive edge and attracting impactful federal funding to support innovation, research and technology development.”

The program brings together a consortium of support partners – Kansas Office of Innovation, Kansas FAST Program, Kansas Small Business Administration, Kansas Small Business Development Center, Kansas EPSCOR, Network Kansas, KU Innovation Park, Kansas State University, and others – to provide early-stage funding, wrap-around technical assistance, and commercialization support as Kansas-based applicants pursue federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) awards. Through the proposal development assistance (Phase 0) and state matching funds for awarded projects (Phase 1), the ACCEL-KS – Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program will help deliver Kansas’ fair share of federal research and development funding.

The highlights of the program include:

  • Funding Available: $250,000
  • Award Amounts for Phase 0: Up to $3,000 per award with a required 50% match
  • Award Amounts for Phase 1: Up to $25,000 (must include proof of federal award)
  • Eligible Applicants: Kansas-based for-profit small businesses that meet all federal SBIR/STTR requirements and conduct at least 51% of Phase 1 research in Kansas

By supporting both early-stage proposal development and successful awardees, the program aims to increase the number, quality and success rate of SBIR and STTR proposals from Kansas and fuel economic growth statewide.

“This program is the direct result of the hard work and advocacy of our growing innovation ecosystem,” Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer Romaine Redman said. “Through the ACCEL-KS – Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program, the Office of Innovation is doubling down on its commitment to support Kansas innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers – helping them accelerate the journey from idea to commercialization and bring groundbreaking solutions born right here in Kansas to market.”

Applications opened today, October 31, and will close Friday, November 28.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to join any or all of the information sessions to learn more about the application process and the network of support available to them. Information sessions will take place:

  • Virtual, 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, register here
  • In-person, 11:00 a.m. Monday, Nov. 10, Groover Labs, 334 N. Saint Francis Ave., Wichita
  • In-person, 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14, Innovate 24, 1880 Kimball Ave., Ste 120, Manhattan
  • In-person, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, KU Innovation Park, 2029 Becker Dr., Lawrence
  • Virtual, 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, register here

For more details, application information or questions about the program, visit the website here or contact Brandon Hutton here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

##

Opinion

Letter to the Editor: Mika Milburn-Kee

Leave a comment

In reflection of this week’s meeting, we covered a lot of important topics, and I’d like to expand my perspective a little, regarding several of them.

I fully understand and share the frustration of residents who are being affected by the constant noise from industrial operations like Bitcoin mining. No one should have to lose sleep or peace in their own home. At the same time, the Commission needs to be very careful about creating new noise resolutions or restrictions that could unintentionally impact farmers, small businesses, and others. Because our county is not zoned, we don’t currently have a framework to distinguish between residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial uses. That’s one reason this issue is so challenging. Rather than rushing to pass new regulations that might limit everyone, I believe we need to look for solutions that directly address the immediate problem while we work toward a balanced, well-thought-out long-term plan. I must respect both the rights – and the quality of life of the people who live here. I don’t believe government should overreach, I do believe in being good neighbors, whether individuals or companies, we need to be working together to make our community a great place to live. I’ve also observed some unrest regarding the commission’s decision to modify our payroll process. While it’s common for transitions like this to generate discussion, I believe the degree of unrest expressed is not fully justified given the intent and expected outcomes of the change.

After our update from our IT partner, I’m encouraged by the progress we’ve made in transitioning to managed IT services. This move modernizes our technology and stands to align the county with current industry standards, an important step toward greater efficiency and security.

I appreciate our Sheriff and his team from Enterprise for taking the time to present information to the commission and for their continued efforts to provide additional details. However, at this point, I’m still not comfortable supporting the proposed lease agreement and here’s why; the cost figures we’ve received so far have varied from meeting to meeting, and we still don’t have a clear plan for how the county would fund this long-term. Until we have consistent numbers and a comprehensive funding proposal, I believe it’s more responsible to continue with our current approach of purchasing as needed. I look forward to reviewing a complete and accurate cost analysis and funding recommendation from the Sheriff’s Office at our next meeting.

Health insurance costs are also rising again this year. According to our broker, the county’s insurance pool used about 117% of the premiums we paid in, meaning we paid out more in claims than we collected. As a result, our rates are projected to increase by roughly 17%. We all know how valuable our insurance coverage is, and we want to keep it strong. But with our limited tax base, we simply can’t continue increasing county expenses at that rate. What I’m proposing is that the county continue to pay the same amount toward insurance as last year, (which, according to our broker, is still higher than what comparable employers contribute). Employees would then have the choice to keep their current plan and pay the difference or move to a lower-cost option. I understand that may be frustrating for some, but it’s a responsible step to help us get these costs under control while still offering solid coverage. My goal is to find a fair balance that protects both our employees and the taxpayers who fund these benefits.

I have also fielded questions about why I didn’t support stacking reserves this year. My position is simple, I’ve observed county operations over time and patterns tell me when we levy it, we spend it. Were then no better off the next year when it comes to assets or financial strength. I’m not against planning for the future, but I believe we need a clear, detailed plan for how any new tax dollars or reserve funds would actually be used before we ask our taxpayers for more. That’s just good stewardship.

Citizens of Bourbon County Thank You

Mika Milburn-Kee

Bourbon County Local News