Bourbon County Commission Agenda Packet for Sept. 8

BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
September 08, 2025, 5:30 PM
I. Call Meeting to Order
• Roll Call
• Pledge of Allegiance
• Prayer
II. Discussion of meeting limits-Beerbower
III. Approval of Agenda
IV. Approval of Minutes 08/25/25 & 08/29/25
V. Consent Agenda
• Approval of 09.05.25Accounts Payable Totaling $308,641.44
• Approval of 09.05.25 Payroll Totaling $326,473.16
VI. Lora Holdridge-Budget Question
VII. Executive Session: Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected
personnel to protect their privacy. Tran
VIII. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
IX. Old Business
• Mapleton Road – Beerbower
• Phone System -Beerbower
• Software program – Beerbower
• Stronghold
• FSACF Grant – Beerbower
• Security Camera’s – Beerbower
• Craw-Kan
• Elm Creek Quarry
• Freeman Agreement
X. New Business
• North Crawford St. – Beerbower
• Eagle Road – Beerbower
• 95th Street South of Unique – ROD & Security 1st
• Opioid Settlement
• Planning Commission Selection Process
• Agenda-Clerk
XI. Commission Comments
XII. 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.

9.5.25(1

rCICCouncilRptAll CLERK(1)

The FSCC Trustees Will Hold a Mock HLC Accreditation Visit on Sept. 8

The FSCC Board of Trustees will hold a special board meeting on Monday, September 8 from 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm in the Cleaver-Boileau-Burris Agriculture Building to participate in a mock Higher Learning Commission Accreditation visit.  No action will be taken during this time.

 

Juley McDaniel

Director of Human Resources

Fort Scott Community College

Move for Mental Health Is Sept. 9 at the Ellis Fine Arts Center from 5-7pm

Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

Fort Scott Community College

Invites you to

Move for Mental Health

September 9th, 2025

The event will start on the North side of the Ellis Fine Arts Center

5-7pm

 Join Fort Scott Community College students, staff, and community members to come together and walk in support of mental health awareness. Participants are encouraged to collect donations per lap walked—100% of the proceeds will directly fund student mental health resources at FSCC.

Click HERE to follow Fort Scott Community College’s Facebook Page!

Click HERE to follow the Move for Mental Health

Facebook Event Page for details!

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US

A Senior Living Conference: October 22 in Chanute

Anna Methvin, Director of NMRMC Foundation talking about the Green Living Program.
Submitted photo.
Picture 2 is Melanie Smith, SHICK Coordinator. Providing information about Medicare programs.

 

Aging = Living Conference Offers Resources, Education, and Inspiration for Seniors and Their Families

The Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging (SEKAAA) invites seniors, caregivers, and families to attend the Aging = Living Conference, a one-day event dedicated to helping older adults live life to the fullest. The conference will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the SEK Impact Center, 1500 W. 7th Street, Chanute, Kansas.

The Aging = Living Conference will feature expert speakers, interactive workshops, and resource booths covering a wide range of topics, including healthy aging, financial planning, home safety, community resources, and ways to stay active and engaged. Attendees will have opportunities to connect with local organizations, discover services available in Southeast Kansas, and take part in meaningful discussions about aging well.

Registration Information:

  • Mail: SEKAAA – Aging = Living, P.O. Box J, Chanute, KS 66720
  • Online: www.sekaaa.com
  • Phone: 620-431-2980
  • Cost: $10.00

Admission includes access to all sessions, resource fair, lunch, and materials. Early registration is encouraged to ensure space availability.

“Aging is living – it’s about embracing every chapter of life with purpose, joy, and the right support,” said Kathy Brennon, CEO of SEKAAA. “This conference is designed to empower our seniors and their families with tools, connections, and inspiration to make the most of every day.”

Whether you are planning for your own future, caring for a loved one, or simply interested in learning more about resources for aging well, the Aging = Living Conference is a valuable opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired.

About SEKAAA
The Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging is committed to improving the quality of life for older adults and their families through advocacy, education, and access to community resources. Serving 10 counties in Southeast Kansas, SEKAAA provides services that promote independence, dignity, and well-being.

 Melanie Smith, SHICK Coordinator. Providing information about Medicare programs.

What’s Happening in Fort Scott Sept. 5 Edition

What’s Happening in Fort Scott! September 5th Weekly Newsletter

Fort Scott Town-Wide Garage Sale

Click HERE to register your sale!

Want to advertise your business on the map?! For ONLY $35!!

Contact us at 620-223-3566 or [email protected]

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

** Guided tours Saturday & Sunday 10am & 1pm! **

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

Fort Scott Farmers Market

Saturdays | 8am-noon & Tuesdays | 4-6pm

Gathering Square Pavilion, 111 N. National

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

FS Public Library

*Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30-3pm

201 S. National Ave.

Kansas Small Business Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 9am-4pm.

Dolly Trolley Historic 50-min narrated tours!

Adults $6 | Children 12&under $4

Call 620-223-3566 or stop in the Chamber at

231 E. Wall St. to book your ride!

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

UPCOMING EVENTS

9/5 ~ 6pm | Roy Hyer LIVE at Mi Ranchito

9/5 ~ 6-9pm | Artist Opening Reception Show at The Artificers

feat. Debra Hart & Jim Simpson

Click HERE to sign up!

9/5 ~ 6-8:30pm | 1st Annual Youth Deer Camp

9/5 ~ NO FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT

IN THE PARK

9/6 ~ 7:30am-12pm | FSHS Flight of Honor Breakfast @ FSHS Cafeteria

9/6 ~ | Kansas Rocks Adopt-A-Trail Work Day

9/6 ~ 1:30-4pm | Master Art Class

by Debra Hart & Jim Simpson

@ The Artificers

Click HERE to sign up!

9/6 ~ 5-8pm | PEO Sisterhood Trivia Fundraiser

@ Liberty Theatre

9/6 ~ 5-11pm | 2nd Annual Jim Meech Agri-Med Crisis Fundraiser

*Raffle, Chicken Dinner, Auction, & Dance

@ Memorial Hall – 1 E. 3rd. St

Click HERE for the FB Event Page!

9/6 ~ 8pm-Midnight | Sharky’s Pub & Grub

Dress your favorite Album Cover Party

Recreate your fav outfit or look from an album cover, Karaoke, and Live DJ!

9/8 ~ 4-6pm | Car Show hosted by the Fort Scott Presbyterian Village

2401 S. Horton St.

9/9 ~ 5-8pm | Brickstreet BBQ & Grille

Family Game Night

Kids Eat for $2 every Tuesday in September!

(Ages 10 & under)

9/11 ~ 8am | Chamber Coffee hosted by

FSCC Foundation

@ Ellis Fine Arts Center

9/11 ~ 1:30-3:20pm | FSCC’s Senior-versity

Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church Tour

Click HERE to RSVP!

Click HERE for more upcoming events!

9/11 ~ 6-8pm | Voices From The Grave Auditions

by Bourbon County Community Theatre

@ Ellis Fine Arts Center

9/11 ~ 6:30-8:30pm | Book & Cook Club hosted by The Kitchen C+C – September’s Book Selection: The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern

by Lynda Cohen Loigman

Sept 11th: Tea & Tales – Mid month meet up

Sept 25th: Cooking Finale: Hands-on cooking party, creating Cozy Chicken Soup inspired by the story’s heartwarming chapters.

$40/person (book not included)

Click HERE to join!

9/12-12 ~ 8am-3pm | Craft Fair by the

First Southern Baptist Church

1818 South Main St.

Multiple vendors, church sponsored meal, bake sale, & crafts!

Dine in, Carry out, or call for delivery

Friday (10:30am-5pm) or Sat. (10:30am-3pm)

417-262-3948 or 620-215-3202

9/12 ~ 6-9 | FSHS Tiger Varisty Football Kick-Off Pulled Pork Nacho Fundraiser

by the Butcher Block – Available at the concession stand for ONLY $10!

Proceeds benefit the FSHS Football Team!

9/13 ~ | Ride 4 Kids Benefiting

Kansas Renewal Institute

Registration: 9:30-10:30am

Kick Stands up at 11am

$20/Singles $25/Doubles

Meet at 5corners Mini Mart

Last Stop Sharky’s Pub & Grub with LIVE Music and Burn-Out Contest

9/13 ~ 8am-2pm | Friends of Tri-Valley

Fall Golf Classic

@Woodland Hills Golf Course

8am: Registration 9am: Shotgun Start

9/13 ~ 10:30am-12pm | Fort Scott Stamp Club

Meeting at FS Public Library

Lower Floor Conference

9/13 ~ 6-8pm | Jesse Jack and the Electric String Band hosted by Common Ground Coffee Co.

@ Common Ground Coffee

12 E. Wall St.

Stay tuned for additional upcoming Fall Music Series Events

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.

Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!

Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema

[Message clipped]  View entire message

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran Shows Support with Visit to Freeman Fort Scott Hospital                                      

Submitted photo.

 

Stately Visit

FORT SCOTT, Kan. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan) paid an impromptu visit to Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. Friday morning, roughly 24 hours after the facility’s long-awaited public opening in Fort Scott.

Calling the facility “impressive,” Moran – the long-time advocate for rural health care in Kansas – was given a brief tour of the six-bed emergency department and 10-bed acute care hospital by Freeman’s Chief Executive Officer of Rural Hospitals Renee Denton and Anita Walden, Chief Administrative Officer at Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc.

“There was this email about ‘something exciting happened in Fort Scott today,” Moran said, following a plane flight from Washington D.C. He immediately reached out to Freeman officials, asking if he could visit the new hospital.

During its first full day of operation, Freeman Health System’s newest hospital recorded seven patients at the ED, including one patient in need of immediate cardiac intervention that was sent urgently to Freeman Hospital West in Joplin.

Moran learned details about the hospital while shaking hands with Freeman nurses and the hospital’s Medical Director, Dr. Mark Brown, inside the emergency department.

“I’m here to see what you do on day two,” the Senator said. “I appreciate your passion, and I wish you all the best.”

Making certain Kansas residents have easy access to affordable, quality health care has been one of the Senator’s core beliefs. He has spoken extensively in the past about the challenges facing rural hospitals in Kansas, citing the closure of facilities across the Sunflower state. He’s publicly supported Freeman’s efforts to reopen the city’s emergency department and establish the 10-bed acute medical center for Fort Scott and Bourbon County residents to utilize.

During his visit, Moran pledged to help expedite the process concerning the hospital’s upcoming credentialing survey conducted by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) officials.

“His desire to be on site day two not only shows his support, but his continued commitment was evident with his offer to assist however he can to expedite the CMS survey process to receive our CMS certification,” Denton said, adding that he also has penned a letter of support in favor of the Freeman Fort Scott hospital to CMS officials. “That will be our final hurdle.”

Moran also pledged to look into the time-consuming process Missouri-based Freeman physicians must undergo to receive their required licensure to practice medicine in Kansas.

Having worked closely with Moran, via email and Zoom meetings, for many months, “I can tell you he is very passionate about affordable healthcare and making sure all rural communities have access to it,” Walden said.

For more information about Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. – located at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. – and the services offered, visit freemanhealth.com.

 

###

 

 

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. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, 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.

 

What Does a Frozen Chicken Have to do with Trust? by Patty LaRoche

Patty LaRoche. 2023.
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)

If you ever have had your trust in someone broken, chances are the wound of betrayal took some time to heal.  Repairing the damage will not be done overnight.

I know two individuals who had their companies stolen from them by underhanded co-owners; both ended up claiming bankruptcy. Some of my friends have caught their spouses in adulterous relationships.  Death, they say, would have been better.  Recently, I sat with a friend who shared that she caught her employees stealing from her.  When she confronted them, they lied about it.

Our three sons are in the restaurant business.  Jeff, the eldest, runs them. When they first started out, Jeff was warned by other owners in the dining business about how easy it is to have inventory stolen.  It took Jeff little time to find out just how true that was.  When Debbie, my friend in Mazatlán, Mexico, bought a restaurant, she was shocked at how much of her inventory ended up in employees’ car trunks.  Only when a parking lot security guard told her what he saw late at night did she have reason to fire her workers.

Debbie’s friend Lisa, another restaurant owner, told Debbie that she had a chicken disappear every day for a year.  When she finally realized that her head chef left work every night with his chef’s hat on, she demanded he remove it.  Sure enough, there sat a frozen chicken, resting atop his head.

Whom do you trust? My daughter-in-law Kira is a flight instructor in the Colorado mountains.   A couple of months ago, she was teaching an older gentleman how to fly.  Part of the instruction is that the pilot has to stall the plane mid-air and then bring the plane out of the stall (one of several reasons I have no desire to get my pilot’s license).   Kira teaches her students the proper technique, but this man failed to do what he had been taught.  Kira had to take over to prevent a crash.  The gentleman seemed unbothered and later said that he trusted that if something went wrong, Kira would make it right. Fortunately for him, she did.

If we’re going to trust, that person needs to earn our trust.

My daily Bible reading is in the book of Job.  We all know him as the man who lost everything…except his nagging wife and three, know-it-all friends.  Job questions God, imploring Him to explain why this has happened to him.  In Job 29, he reminds God (and his “friends”) that he is a good man.  He has helped the poor, the fatherless, the widow, the blind and the lame, and now they all have turned against him.  God remains silent, even when Job’s buddies remind him how he obviously has done something to irritate God.

For 38 chapters, we read the verbal tug-of-war, and then God speaks.  He doesn’t answer “why” Job was asked to endure what he did.  He simply reminds Job of Who He is, of what He is capable of doing, and how no one should contend with him.  In chapter 42, God admonishes the three friends for their lack of trust in Him and reminds them that Job has remained faithful.

God does not need to answer us when we question His ways.  He has a greater plan and purpose that we may never understand.  When I am tempted to ask the “Why” questions, I need instead to trust that His ways are not my ways.  They are far greater than anything I can imagine.

Rom 11:34-36 is confirmation: “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him? For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever.  Amen.

People will fail us, but God never will.

Ad: What FSCC Offers

Looking for a college that gives you options? At Fort Scott Community College, students can choose from associate degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, and General Studies, along with a variety of certificates that lead straight to rewarding careers. Whether you’re interested in healthcare fields like Certified Medication Aide, Nurse Aide, EMT, Home Health Aide, Manicuring, or Phlebotomy, or want to take on a technical challenge with certificates in Ag Technology (John Deere), Construction, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Environmental Water Tech, Farm & Ranch Management, Harley-Davidson Technology, Heavy Equipment Operation, HVAC, Masonry, or Welding we’ve got you covered!

But college isn’t just about the classroom. FSCC offers plenty of ways to get involved through music and performance opportunities (band, choir, theater), student clubs and organizations (like Collegiate Farm Bureau, Phi Theta Kappa, SkillsUSA, STEAM Club, FSCC Media Team, and more), and even competitive judging teams in livestock and meat.

If athletics is more your thing, FSCC is home to intercollegiate sports for both men and women. Compete in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, rodeo, track & field, or cross country, all while building friendships and representing the Greyhounds.

And the best part? We’re still growing. New programs, degrees, certifications, and athletic opportunities are on the horizon! There’s never been a better time to join FSCC!

Fort Scott Community College; where opportunity meets possibility.

Agenda Packet for the Uniontown City Council on Sept. 9

The Uniontown City Council agenda for Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. at City Hall

ROLL CALL:  ___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett

 ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Appoint city clerk and administer oath of office.

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Sally Johnson – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of August 12, 2025- 2026 Budget Hearing and Regular Meeting and August 14, 2025 Special Meeting
  2. August Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & September Accounts Payables
  3. Resolution 2025-0909-01 waiving the requirements of K.S.A. 75-1120a(a)

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Codes Enforcement:  Doug Coyan

 

 

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

Park Food Truck Outlets

 

 

Clerk Report:

Possible office hour changes

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilman Kelly –

Councilwoman Pemberton –

Councilwoman Pritchett –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

SEED Grant –

 

FEMA Flooding–

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Motion by _____________, Second by   __________, Approved ______, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at ____________.

 

ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________

08122025 2026 Budget Hearing,

Regular Meeting(1) 08142025

Special Meeting(1)

Res 2025-0909-01 Audit Waiver for 2025

 

Unapproved Minutes of the FS City Commission Meeting on Sept. 2

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of September 2, 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, Dyllon Olson, and Matthew Wells were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

              In AttendanceBrad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Dillon/Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Michael Hoyt, Jack Welch, Zac Crumby, Patrick Barnes/Olsson, Diane Striler, Anne Dare, and Harold Martin.

 

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

 

Approval of Agenda

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve the amended agenda with the addition of Ben Hart/BakerTilly/Appearances and the removal of Item D/New Business/Action Items – purchase of the skid steer. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1391-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of August 13, 2025 – August 26, 2025$1,554,438.30

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of August 19, 2025

–  Request to Pay – Invoice No. 527851 – Olsson – Project No. 024-06580 – FSK RSA Grading and Runway Lighting Project – AIP Project No. 3-20-0022-024/025-2025 – Design and Bidding (services rendered through February 1, 2025) – $41,850.00

–  Approval of Resolution No. 20-2025 A RESOLUTION TO SUBMIT TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY, THE PROPOSITION OF LEVYING ONE-HALF PERCENT (0.5%) RETAILERS’ SALES TAX IN THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS.

 

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Comment

Harold Martin requested permission to comment during the discussion on the sale of lake lots which was granted.

 

Appearances

Zac Crumby – Request for Temporary Street Closure – Motorcycle Benefit Ride for KRI/Ride 4 Kids – September 13, 2025 – National to W. Oak from Wall St. – 3:00PM – 11:30PM – Last stop at Sharky’s.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the Temporary Street Closure for the ride for kids event from 3PM to 11:30PM on September 13, 2025 . WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Jack Welch –   CHAMPS (H.O.T.) Heart of Texas Football Bowl

Welch, Founder and CEO of America’s Drug Free Productions, requested City sponsorship for the December 6th CHAMPS bowl game, a 501(c)(3) event promoting awareness on alcohol, drugs, bullying, and suicide. He seeks $30,000 in funding to cover team lodging and a banquet, though $20,000 would cover the game alone without the banquet. Ticket sales support future events. The game typically features a top Texas team against one from Kansas, Mississippi, or Arizona, though it would be canceled in case of bad weather. Welch will host the event at Frary Field.

 

MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to host the CHAMPS Heart of Texas Football Bowl with the City of Fort Scott with a donation to help cover those costs including the banquet of $30,000.00 out of the Special Alcohol/Drug Fund. OLSON seconded. VAN HOECKE, OLSON, and SALSBURY voted yes. WELLS and DANCER voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-2.

 

Ben Hart/Baker Tilly was available for Commissioners’ questions in preparation of the public hearing for the budget scheduled for September 16, 2025, including a 0.8 mill decrease.

 

New Business

 

Public Hearing:

Consideration of Resolution No. 21-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 102 N. BARBEEL. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

KRUGER gave a history of the structure as it pertains to code violations and Code’s Enforcement.

He stated the owner was unresponsive to outreach attempts, and the property is delinquent on

taxes. There we no other public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 21-2025 a resolution directing the removal of an alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 102 N. Barbee. OLSON seconded.

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

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 22-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 602 S. BARBEEL. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

KRUGER requested the item be tabled for another time because a gentleman has a contract with a realtor to buy the property. There we no other public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the public hearing for 602 S. Barbee for (90) days. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 23-2025 A RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 CLARKL. Kruger

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to open the public hearing. OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

KRUGER gave a history of the structure as it pertains to code violations and Code’s Enforcement. He stated the owner was contacted and expressed no interest in fixing the property.

 

No public comments.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to close the public hearing. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 23-2025 a resolution directing the removal of an alleged unsafe and dangerous structure at 505 Clark. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Action Items:

Consideration of Olsson proposal to perform the design and bidding phase services for KDOT-KAIP (Project No. AV-2026-16) – Olsson Project No. 025-04135 Patrick Barnes/Olsson

BARNES presented the proposal from Olson to design and perform bidding services for taxiway lighting at the Fort Scott Municipal Airport was presented. The project is funded by a KDOT grant with a 90/10 split. He was present to answer questions.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to allow Olsson to move forward. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

Overview of MIH Grant Application as it relates to the proposal advertised for qualified residential developers (Applications due September 20, 2025) L. Dillon

DILLON appeared to request permission to apply the MIH grant along with the Kansas Housing Investor

Tax Credit (KHITC). She stated that a Request for Proposals has been advertised and approximately (4) developers are interested. The grant being sought is $650,000, with approximately 10% allocated for down

payment assistance for moderate-income housing.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to give permission to go after the MIH and KHITC grants. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Discussion of the Sale of Lake Lots – L. Dillon

DILLON stated that an individual had inquired about purchasing lake lots and wanted to know the process. Discussion was had about the remaining that were still open and owned by the City, and the previous sales. The Commission concluded that the topic and process needed to be discussed and reevaluated in the future.

 

MARTIN commented that he was encouraged that the Commission was taking a cautious approach on making the decision for further sales of lake lots. He expressed his concern about the health of the lake and recommended that they consider doing a bathymetric survey, environmental impact study and regular water quality testing. He also expressed concern about the sewer system and lift station at the lake regarding its ability to manage an increase of residents. He has brought these items to the City’s attention several times in the past.

 

Discussion was had on encroachment on City property and improvements at the lake.

 

MATKIN left the meeting at 7:01PM and returned at 7:03PM.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table the lake lot discussion until another time in the future, based on our previous procedures of selling lake lots, or until such matter is brought up again. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Resolution No. 24-2025 A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS AUTHORIZING THE REDEMPTION AND PAYMENT OF ITS TAXABLE INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BONDS, SERIES A, 2014 AND SERIES B, 2014 (SLEEP INN AND SUITES HOTEL PROJECT) AND THE SALE AND CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY TO FS HOSPITALITY GROUP, LLC

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve Resolution No. 24-2025. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

 

Consideration of Chip Seal Payment

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to accept the offer from Bettis for the Chip Seal payment at the reduced rate of $201,000.00 Olsson. DANCER seconded. DANCER, SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE and OLSON voted yes. WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of 99-Year Land Lease Agreement – M. Wells

MOTION:  WELLS moved to table the discussion until September 16, 2025. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments

CITY ENGINEER

– E. National Project Update

– Davis Lift Station

 

CITY ATTORNEY – Observation on American Legion representative for the car show, thorough and appreciative.

 

FARMER left the meeting 7:13PM and returned at 7:15PM

 

CITY MANAGER

–  Franchise fees with Evergy – agreement expires February 2026

–  Milling of Lee Circle Drive and Crescent Drive

–  Curb and guttering work on Eddy Street

–  100th Year Celebration of Memorial Hall, Friday, Sept. 5 – 11:30AM

–  Organizational chart for DANCER coming this week

–  Memorial Hall renovation scope of work to come

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will provide a Scope of Work for Memorial Hall project for bond consideration by September 16, 2025, meeting.

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS

–  Additional activities on Skubitz Plaza

–  Concerns about Lake Patrol and camping area improvements

–  Evergy franchise agreement

–  Bettis Asphalt

–  Memorial Hall in combination with Library expansion for bond

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON

–  Comments regarding city events and Commission is doing a good job

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY –  No comments

 

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER

–  Moody building status

–  Revisit food truck ordinance September 16, 2025

–  Sidewalk improvement in downtown district (mostly south side)

–  Budget reports feedback to come Monday, September 8, 2025

 

ACTION:  CITY CLERK to put food truck ordinance on September 16, 2025. MATKIN will look for SALSBURY’S submitted suggestions for the ordinance.

 

ACTION:  DANCER will talk with MATKIN regarding the budget reports he is requesting.

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE

–  Response to comments made by WELLS

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  OLSON moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:36PM. DANCER seconded.

 

SEPTEMBER 2, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:36PM.

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County Local News