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Obituary of Wanda L. Woolsey
Wanda L. Woolsey (McPherson), 72, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of March 20, 2026, at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri.
Wanda was born on August 29, 1953, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Richard and Ella Marie Olson. She was the second oldest of six children, one brother and four sisters—and the bond they shared was truly unmatched. In their family, “if it happens to one, it happens to all,” and they lived that out in the way they loved and supported each other. Her siblings would all tell you that Wanda was the ornery one, always ready to drag you into an adventure and just as ready to blame you if it didn’t go as planned.
Wanda loved God and her family above all else, and she lived her life rooted in both. She carried a strong and steady work ethic, following in her mother’s footsteps to become a histologist. She spent much of her career working in pathology at Upshire Labs in Kansas City and Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, where her dedication and care made a lasting impact.
Wanda had a deep love for life’s simple joys. She enjoyed gardening, bowling, camping, reading, boating, Bible study, and most recently, creating diamond art paintings—she was constantly working on them and gifting them to those she loved, friends and family alike. She had a special love for animals, especially her dogs, who she treated like her own children. In her later years, her beloved dorkie, Jasmine (“Jazzy”), was her constant companion, going everywhere with her—from running errands and attending doctor’s appointments to visit her daughter Jessie and playing alongside the grandkids. Wherever Wanda went, Jazzy was sure to be right there with her.
Her greatest joy, however, was her family, especially her grandchildren. Her entire face would light up at the sight or sound of them. She could be found cheering in the stands at her grandson’s
sporting events, attending her granddaughters’ choir concerts, and showing up for countless other activities—always beaming with love and pride. Her granddaughter Addison lovingly gave her the name “Gammy,” a name that stuck and was even adopted by many of the nurses who cared for her in her final weeks, as she made them feel like family.
Wanda would often say, “Oh, it’s granddaughters galore today,” whenever Addison and Alice surprised her with a visit—though truthfully, she usually already knew they were on their way, as
she liked to follow their comings and goings on Life360. She loved keeping up with her family and made sure they always knew they were cherished.
Wanda also loved garage sales and antiquing with anyone she could convince to come along. She never met a knick-knack she didn’t “need.”
She is survived by her daughters, Jessie (Zachary) Malson of Pomona, Kansas, and Michelle Callahan of Ohio; her grandchildren, Addison, Thomas, Ronan Malson, and Alice Callahan (Nathan Pardee), Katelynn Greer, and Curtis Callahan.
She is also survived by her siblings: Nancy Daum of Paola, Kansas; Marjene (Ron) Locke of Pueblo, Colorado; Loretta (Dan) Spotts of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Carl (Malinda) Olson of Paola, Kansas; and Janice (Randy) Menefee of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; along with two nieces, eight nephews, and countless great-nieces and great-nephews (and their spouses), all of whom she loved dearly.
She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Richard and Ella Marie Olson; the love of her life, Thomas McPherson; her sister-in-law, Debbie Olson; her nephew and his wife, James (Kandi) Locke; her nephew and great-nephew, Kurt (Tristian) Daum; and her second husband, David Woolsey.
Wanda will be remembered for her sharp wit, her strong spirit, her unwavering faith, and the deep love she had for her family. As she often said, “it will all come out in the wash.” Today, we rest in the peace of knowing she is free from pain and held in the arms of the Lord.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”
— Revelation 21:4
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 28th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Cremation will follow. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until service time Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the Wanda Woolsey Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, 201 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
Obituary of Corey Jene Knight
Corey Jene Knight, age 24, a resident of Fort Scott, Kansas, joined Jesus Friday, March 20, 2026, at the University of Kansas Medical Center surrounded by his loved ones. Corey was finally freed from his wheelchair-bound life and walked through Heaven’s gates.
Corey leaves behind his loving mother, Kimberly Rose and stepfather, Jerry Rose of Fort Scott; his father, Kyle Knight and stepmother Shayla Knight of Uniontown, Kansas. Corey has three sisters, a stepsister, six brothers and a stepbrother. His big sister, Tricia Vargas of Fort Scott and two younger sisters, Kylee and Paisley of Uniontown and stepsister, Amy VanBecelare of Pittsburg. Two older brothers, Garrett and Dayton Knight of Fort Scott and four younger brothers Mathew, Reese, Cooper and Kaden of Uniontown and stepbrother, Jason Wilson of Fort Scott. Corey also leaves behind twelve nephews and a niece. Aiden, Leilan, Isaac, Benjamin, Jordan, Jax, Olivia, Trippton, Oliver, Ari, Opie, Roe and Castiel. Corey was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Earl and Billy Jene Graham and paternal grandparents, Virgil and Nadja Knight.
For twenty-four years, Corey defied the odds stacked against him. From his diagnosis before birth the outlook was bleak. Corey fought hard for twenty-four years, not being defined by statistics. Corey brought so much joy and happiness to everyone he met. His infectious smile and laugh would light up the room. Corey enjoyed musicals, concerts – particularly Members Only, ice cream, bubbles, balloons and most of all his love for his family and cuddles with his mama. Corey gets to walk into Heaven with Jesus and do all the things his earthly body couldn’t do.
Pastor Paul Martin will conduct a celebration of Corey’s life at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, March 26th at the Community Christian Church. Burial will follow in the Dayton Cemetery. The family asks that guests wear blue to honor Corey. Memorials are suggested to Families for Hope, Inc and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
Bourbon County Arts Council Presents Barnaby Bright on April 30
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2026 CFSEK Scholarship Stories: Kaylee Lunsford,The Power of Legacy
Most students talk about the financial relief of a scholarship, but it’s truly special when a student feels a personal connection to the fund’s history.
Kaylee Lunsford, a homeschooled student from Fort Scott, is currently studying animal science at Oklahoma State University. As a multi-year recipient of the Bill House Agricultural Scholarship through the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK), Kaylee’s goals are global, planning to pursue a career in International Ag Law to “give farmers a voice on the world stage.”
“I’m shocked every time I’m notified that I received the scholarship,” Kaylee said. “I’m just so happy the committee thinks I’m deserving of it.”
The connection goes deeper than just the scholarship. Kaylee grew up showing Hereford cattle with the American Hereford Association (AHA)—an organization where the late Mr. House once served as president.
“I feel a connection to Mr. House through our shared participation in the AHA,” Kaylee noted. “While I never met him, I hope I can carry on his legacy.”
Beyond easing financial stress, Kaylee says the award serves as a motivator to work harder. Her advice for future applicants? Be open and reflective. “I try to give the (review) committee a chance to see why I am worth investing in. I want them to get to know me, my passion, and my goals.”
CFSEK scholarship applications close March 31st, 2026. A full list of scholarships and their requirements is available at SoutheastKansas.org/Students/Scholarship. Scholarship applications are available online at SoutheastKansas.org/Scholarship-App.
The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas awarded over $2.8 million in grants from all foundation funds in 2025 and has facilitated over $28 million in total granting to Southeast Kansas since its inception in 2001. CFSEK serves the region by providing donors with various charitable interests and encouraging charitable giving, which addresses present and future needs in our area. The Columbus Area, Fort Scott Area, and Girard Area Community Foundations are affiliates of CFSEK. More information about CFSEK is available at SoutheastKansas.org.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports March 24
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
March 23
Hello,
Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.
Intelligence Briefing on Worldwide Threats
On Wednesday, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence held its annual worldwide threats hearing with the leaders of the Intelligence Community. I used the opportunity to ask CIA Director John Ratcliffe about how the conflict with Iran will benefit Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. I am concerned that providing Russia with sanctions relief on its oil exports will provide Vladimir Putin with more revenue to sustain his war machine, and I am also concerned about the disruption of supply chains that are critical to providing for Ukraine’s defense. As military operation in Iran continues, our military continues to make progress in degrading Iran’s capabilities that threaten our interests and partners in the region. As the Iranian regime continues to block the Strait of Hormuz, it is necessary for ships carrying energy, fertilizers and food to be permitted safe passage. I continue to pray for the safety of our Armed Forces as they carry out their missions.
You can watch the video of my questioning here.
Introducing Bipartisan Legislation to Revitalize Rural Hospitals
This week, as a member of the Senate Rural Health Caucus, I introduced bipartisan legislation with Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) to strengthen rural hospitals by providing zero-interest loans to support new construction and the renovation of existing hospital facilities. The resources would be provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Community Facilities Direct Loan Program to improve the ability of hospitals to provide essential health care services to rural communities.
Rural hospitals are critical to the well-being of the communities they serve in Kansas and across the country. Our legislation would provide a pathway for qualifying rural hospitals to make needed renovations and facility upgrades, helping to promote the long-term viability of rural hospitals and communities. You can learn more about the Rural Health Revitalization Act and my efforts to support rural Kansas health providers here.
VA Committee Passes 24 Bills Promoting Key Veterans Priorities
This week, I chaired a Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs legislative markup, where our committee passed 24 pieces of bipartisan legislation to improve the lives of veterans, servicemembers and survivors across the country. I introduced four of the 24 bills that advanced out of committee, including the Love Lives On Act, the Guard/Reserve G.I. Bill Parity Act, the Veterans Prosthetics Advancement and Reform Act and the Fisher House Availability Act.
Under current law, surviving spouses of fallen servicemembers lose eligibility for most Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits if they remarry before the age of 55. I introduced the Love Lives On Act to allow surviving spouses to retain their DOD and VA benefits upon remarriage regardless of age so their families can continue receiving the benefits they need. Military service is family service, and no one knows that as well as a survivor. I am grateful this legislation passed out of committee and look forward to bringing it – and the other bipartisan pieces of legislation approved by the committee this week – forward for a full vote in the Senate.
You can learn more about the legislation and the markup here.
FAA Announces New Aviation Safety Standard
This week, U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Sean Duffy and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bedford took an important step to improve the safety of our skies by requiring air traffic controllers to use radar technology to coordinate aviation traffic near our nation’s busiest airports. Our aviation system is fragile, and the tragic mid-air collision on January 29, 2025, highlighted the urgent need to strengthen and modernize safety standards. The implementation of radar-only tracking for helicopters and airplanes was recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) following its investigation into the crash of Flight 5342, and I commend USDOT and FAA leadership for enacting this safety measure.
There is still work to be done, including passage of ROTOR Act, my legislation that would implement the broad adoption of location-transmitting technology, known as Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B), for planes and helicopters in busy airspace. I will continue working to pass the ROTOR Act to further strengthen critical aviation safety standards. You can learn more here.
Recognizing Women in Agriculture Day
During National Agriculture Week, I joined my colleagues in introducing a resolution designating March 21, 2026, as National Women in Agriculture Day, honoring the more than 1.2 million women who contribute to American agriculture. Earlier this year, I also cosponsored a resolution recognizing 2026 as the International Year of the Women Farmer. In Kansas and across the nation, women play an important role in advancing the future of agriculture by managing family farm operations, educating the next generation of producers and supporting our rural communities. As we celebrate National Women in Agriculture Day, we extend our gratitude for their hard work, resilience and unwavering commitment to keeping our agricultural industry strong and investing in the future of rural America.
Update on the SAVE America Act
This week and into the weekend, the Senate held extended debate on the SAVE America Act. If enacted, this legislation would set voter identification requirements, including proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. It would also require citizens to show photo ID, like a driver’s license, to vote in federal elections. Federal law already prohibits non-citizens voting in federal races. This legislation would create a uniform standard to verify that requirement across all 50 states.
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
March 20, 2026
In the last week of regular session, the Senate debated too many bills to cover here. All the bills can be found at www.KSLegislature.gov. Here are some of the bills that may impact you:
Banks and other financial institutions would be allowed to establish a trusted contact that could be contacted if there is suspected fraud. HB 2591 would also allow suspicious transactions to be delayed for up to 10 business days when the institution has reported the suspected fraud to law enforcement or to the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). There was a series fraud case in Linn County that involved cryptocurrency and we need this protection. It passed unanimously.
Cryptocurrency Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) would be required to warn users before a transaction occurs. The warning must be in bold letters, “WARNING: CONSUMER FRAUD OFTEN STARTS WITH CONTACT FROM A STRANGER…” Virtual currency kiosks, crypto ATMs, would also be limited on the transaction amount should HB 2515 became law. It passed unanimously.
Invasion of Privacy laws are strengthened in HB 2518 by making it clear that violations can involve any kind of image, video, or digital recording, including altered or AI-generated content. It significantly increases penalties when young victims are involved. It passed unanimously.
Property tax appeals at the Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) would require county appraisers to use a single-property appraisal that evaluates the specific characteristics of an individual property, rather than relying on mass appraisals that assess groups of properties. It passed 38 to 2. I voted yes.
Kansas Law Enforcement and federal immigration authorities’ cooperation would be strengthened by Senate Substitute for HB 2372. Sheriffs would be able to detain individuals based on valid ICE detainer requests or warrants. It establishes procedures for detention and release and would help detain criminals who entered the country illegally. The bill passed the Senate on a partisan vote 31 to 9. I voted yes.
The Crush Transnational Repression in Kansas Act, created by SB 454, would protect individuals from foreign intimidation and coercion within the state. It targets transnational repression and extortion, where foreign governments attempt to threaten, surveil, or control people living in Kansas. The bill increases criminal penalties for offenses like harassment, stalking, or threats when tied to these efforts and requires training to help law enforcement better recognize and respond to such cases. It passed unanimously.
Alcoholic Beverages would be authorized for sale 23 hours a day, seven days a week, if a county opts in and SB 393 becomes law for the duration of the FIFA 2026 World Cup – another bill just for the World Cup. I voted no, but the bill passed on a vote of 21 to 19.
Property Tax Relief Efforts are ongoing as the House and Senate advanced different constitutional amendments. The House proposal would average property values starting in 2028, while the Senate supports a 3% annual assessment value cap beginning in 2027. Lawmakers will now negotiate a compromise, aiming to provide relief and predictability for taxpayers. It’s much needed reform, like in 1975 when Kansans passed a Constitutional Amendment to protect farmers and ranchers from rising taxes. Polls show strong support for a 3% cap. In fact, 75% of those polled want the cap.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
KS Bill Banning Use of Personal Electronic Devices During School Day Is Signed
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Kansas Will Capitalize on Timber Production and Protect Communities from Devastating Wildfires
USDA Announces $115.2 Million in Nine States, $1.72 Million in Kansas, to Capitalize on Timber Production and Protect our Communities from Devastating Wildfires
(Topeka, Kansas, March 23, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development’s Rural Business Cooperative Service Administrator J.R. Claeys announced $115.2 Million across eight states through the Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program (TPEP), to ensure sawmills and other wood processing facilities have the necessary funding to establish, reopen, expand, or improve their operations. In Kansas, Berg Reinvigorations LLC is receiving $1,725,500 dollars.
“We cannot allow wildfires to devastate and destroy our rural communities,” said Claeys. “That’s why the USDA is taking this bold action to stop the destruction of our forestlands by investing in sawmills and wood processing facilities that support sustainable timber harvesting. Through the announcement made today, the Trump Administration is strengthening local businesses, driving rural prosperity, and supporting 485 jobs for hardworking Americans.”
“Wildfires have already been devastating for parts of Kansas, and prairie and range management is not enough for wildfire control,” said Gimmie Jo Jansonius, Director of Rural Development in Kansas. “This investment will assist in forestland management and create and keep jobs in Kansas.”
Berg Reinvigorations in Montgomery County will use the Timber Production Expansion Program Guaranteed Loan Program to make building improvements, purchase machinery and
equipment, refinance debt, and pay loan related costs.
Today’s announcement assists with projects in seven other states. The full details on the Kansas project are:
A $1,725,500 loan for Berg Reinvigorations will assist with building improvements, purchasing machinery and equipment, refinancing debt, and paying loan related costs. Berg Reinvigorations is an existing sawmill located in Montgomery County, Kansas. This project is expected
to create eight jobs and retain seven jobs.
These investments represent a commitment by the Trump Administration to expand American timber production by 25%, reduce wildfire risk, and save American lives and communities by strengthening domestic wood processing capacity.
“The value of National Forest Systems lands is demonstrated by providing various forest products, such as timber, lumber, paper, bioenergy, and other wood products,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “The American forest products industry is critical to maintaining the health of the nation’s forests. The Timber Production and Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program is one of many ways the Forest Service partners with the timber industry to maintain rural jobs, processing facilities, and an outlet for wood that needs to be removed from national forests.”
The Timber Production Expansion Guaranteed Loan Program is made possible by a partnership between the USDA Rural Development and US Forest Service. The program helps address the wildfire crisis by investing in local sawmills that clear out dangerous fuel in our forestlands, helping to remove the most immediate threats to communities, critical infrastructure, and natural resources. This program is available to qualified lenders whose loan applicants want to establish, reopen, expand, or improve a sawmill or other wood processing facility that processes ecosystem restoration byproducts from USDA Forest Service National Forest System lands.
For more information on USDA Rural Development investments in rural America, visit the Rural Data Gateway. The Rural Data Gateway is an online tool that strengthens USDA Rural Development partnerships with rural people, entrepreneurs, government officials and Congress by making RD’s investment data accessible to the public.
If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit GovDelivery subscriber page.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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From the Bleachers-755 by Dr. Jack Welch
FROM THE BLEACHERS-755
BY DR. JACK WELCH
No Honor Among Thieves
If you spend enough time around teams, businesses, or organizations, you eventually learn an important truth: not everyone in the room is pulling in the same direction.
Some people spend their time building others up. Others spend their time tearing people down. They smile in the boss’s office and then mock him in the hallway.
The interesting thing about people who gossip and backbite is they often live-in constant paranoia. They assume others are talking about them because they know exactly what they say about others. I have always believed there is no honor among thieves. The person who talks bad about someone behind their back will eventually do the same to you.
I recently witnessed an employee who worked in an office where the boss had just finished speaking to the staff about the direction of the business. After the meeting, several employees gathered in this person’s nearby office. The young lady started poking fun at the boss’s message, mimicking his tone and joking about his ideas while others laughed.
What they didn’t realize was the boss had left the meeting shortly after and was walking down the hallway. As he passed the office, he could clearly hear the conversation. He didn’t stop. He didn’t say a word. He simply kept walking.
What the young lady never knew was that the boss had been considering her for a promotion. She was talented and doing good work. Leaders look for more than talent. They look for character, loyalty, and trust. What do you think about the possible promotion? Good leaders pay attention to how people behave when they think no one is watching. So how do you deal with people who gossip and tear others down?
First, recognize who they are. Not everyone deserves the same level of trust. Second, try to help them if you can. Sometimes people fall into gossip because they want attention or approval. Third, pray for them. People who tear others down often have something broken inside themselves.
Most importantly, be wise enough to understand their character. Great teams are built on trust and people can change. Teammates defend one another, support one another, and speak well of one another. The truth is simple. If someone constantly tears others down behind their back, eventually they will do the same to you.
Remember, there is no honor among thieves.
Thought for the Week, “Character is revealed not by what people say in front of others, but by what they say when others leave the room.” Jack Welch
Dr. Jack Welch serves as President of Fort Scott Community College. With a career spanning professional sports, public education, and rural community development, he brings a servant-leader mindset and a passion for building trust-driven cultures that empower people to thrive in the classroom, on the field, and in life. He is also the author of Foundations of Coaching: The Total Coaching Manual.
Draft Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on March 10
The Regular Council Meeting on March 10, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Kyle Knight. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
CITIZENS REQUEST
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Johnson presented the February 2026 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $244,279.23, Receipts $30,427.36, Transfers Out $3,024.25, Expenditures $50,647.95, Checking Account Closing Balance $221,034.39. Bank Statement Balance $221,850.42, including Checking Account Interest of $45.56, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $816.03, Reconciled Balance $221,034.39. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,432.35, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,422.45, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $50,925.50, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $339,814.69. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $92.47, and Utility CDs $633.31 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $725.78. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2026, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, for Total Transfers of $3,024.25. Net loss for the month of February $23,244.84, Year-to-Date Net Income $20,288.93. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $41,872.97 (32.4%), Expenditures $16,034.84 (12.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $6,743.25 (18.7%), Expenditures $5,159.58 (12.1%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $22,994.33 (18.5%), Expenditures $12,604.35 (8.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $33,972.85 (23.1%), Expenditures $17,454.62 (7.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,010.48 (27.6%), Expenditures $1,422.03 (12.7%). The March 2026 payables to date in the amount of $23,075.39.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
- Minutes of February 10, 2026 Regular Meeting
- February Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & March Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the cost of Bio Mist used for mosquito fogging has increased to $111.00 per gallon, totaling approximately $278 per fogging session. The Council and Rich discussed the possibility of more affordable alternatives; however, Rich reported that he has been unsuccessful in identifying any cheaper effective options. The Council agreed to continue using the current product. Beginning in April, fogging will be scheduled every three weeks instead of every two weeks. As peak mosquito season approaches, the schedule will return to every two weeks. Rich also suggested including a paragraph in the city newsletter to remind residents that standing water in yards or around homes serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The notice will include tips on how individuals can help reduce the mosquito population.
Clerk Arnold reminded the Council of upcoming City Hall closures on March 11–13 due to the CCMFOA Conference, and on March 26–27 due to the Municipal Court Clerk Conference. Arnold asked the Council to determine dates for the Spring and Fall citywide cleanups. The Council decided that two roll-off dumpsters would be provided for the 2026 cleanups, scheduled for April 27–30 and August 31–September 3. There was discussion regarding hosting a town-wide garage sale this year; however, the Council ultimately decided against it due to low community participation in previous years. Arnold also confirmed with the Council whether to order fish food again this year for the pond located by the school. The Council approved the purchase and requested that Arnold obtain pricing from multiple vendors.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Knight – requested an update on when Marbery Concrete Inc. would begin work on the FEMA project at 2nd and Clay Streets. Mayor Jurgensen reported that a recent vehicle accident involving Marbery Concrete Inc. resulted in the loss of equipment, which put a delay on the start of the project. Weather permitting, work is expected to begin once conditions allow. Knight also asked if new culverts will be put in and Treasurer Johnson had confirmed they will replace with new culverts to help with water flow.
Councilwoman Kelly – none
Councilwoman Pemberton – inquired about who is responsible for unlocking the storm shelters during severe weather events. Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the shelters remain unlocked during this time of year due to the increased likelihood of inclement weather. Pemberton also asked whether it would be possible for someone not affiliated with the city to perform ditch cleanout and replace a culvert at 201 2nd St. Mayor Jurgensen responded that this is not allowed, as the city is responsible for ditch and culvert maintenance. Superintendent Rich added that he would inspect the area and address the ditch and culvert to the best of his ability.
Councilwoman Pritchett – absent
Councilman Stewart – absent
Mayor Jurgensen – none
OLD BUSINESS
FEMA Flooding– As previously discussed earlier in the meeting, Marbery Concrete Inc. will begin repairs when weather permits. Mayor Jurgensen and Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that a one-year extension on the project has been filed and approved.
Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments– Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that the City has not raised water rates since 2024 and sewer rates have not been increased since 2013. Johnson proposed new water and sewer rates to take effect in April 2026. The Council reviewed the figures provided and discussed the proposed adjustments.
Moved by Pemberton, seconded by Knight, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly water rate for users within city limits at $28.66 for the first 1,000 gallons, with an additional $12.98 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. For users outside city limits, the minimum monthly rate will be $29.90 for the first 1,000 gallons, with a charge of $13.55 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the water rate.
Moved by Kelly, seconded by Pemberton, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly sewer fee at $27.50 for the first 1,000 gallons of water usage, with an additional $0.31 per 1,000 gallons thereafter, per water meter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the sewer rate.
Knight asked how the City’s rates compare to those of surrounding areas. A discussion followed regarding rates in neighboring communities and the differences in bulk water purchase rates compared to those areas.
NEW BUSINESS
Moved by Kelly, Second by Knight, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 7:55PM