Letter to the Editor: Vance White
Greetings Bourbon County citizens and voters,
My name is Vance White and I am running as a write in candidate for Bourbon County Attorney. The reason I am running is simple, I can do a much better job. Since 2018, after the last person from here left office, we have had a series of outsiders who have been deficient in at least one serious way, not prosecuting criminals that should be prosecuted. I personally have had a burglary and criminal damage to property case sitting in the County Attorney’s office for nearly three (3) years now. The County Attorney’s office has photographs of the perpetrators, and I believe there are confessions, but nothing has been done. I have heard from other crime victims around the county, with similar stories, who have pretty much given up. That’s not the way it’s supposed to work folks, and I promise that if you elect me things will change. Cases will be expeditiously prosecuted and crime victims will be treated with respect, including letters sent out updating them about their cases.
This would not be my first time working in the County Attorney’s office. I “cut my teeth” there many years ago as an intern and Assistant County Attorney under the late John L. Swarts III. It was under his tenure that I learned early on that crime victims have rights too, should be treated fairly and never ignored. I have been around Bourbon County since 1992 and currently reside in Fulton. I am a proud member of Community Christian Church and an honorably discharged U.S. Army veteran.
So, if you would like to see a County Attorney working in that office who has lived here almost half his life, knows many people here already and is committed to his job, please WRITE IN MY NAME in the box for County Attorney. Thank you for your consideration!
Best regards,
Vance White
120 W. Osage St.
Fulton, KS 66738
Family Movie Night at Memorial Hall on November 9
The Fort Scott Sons of American Legion, a part of the local American Legion has planned a family movie night for Saturday, November 9 at Memorial Hall that will feature the family-friendly movie, Free Birds.
Doors open at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at 6:30 p.m.
Please bring lawn chairs, blankets, and/or pillows, it will be like an outdoor movie, but inside Memorial Hall, 1 East Third.
Free Birds is a 2013 science fiction comedy Thanksgiving movie, in which Jake and Reggie travel back in time to the year 1621, just before the first Thanksgiving. The plan: Prevent all turkeys from ever becoming holiday dinners, according to rottentomatoes.com.
“When I was a kid, a fun thing to do was going to the movies with my brother,” said L.W. Beerbower, a member of the Sons of Veterans. “We wanted to do something that brings the family together and doesn’t break the budget.”
The group had a mock run with their families recently and “my kids are still talking about it,” he said.
Admission is $1 per person and each child must be accompanied by an adult.
Concessions will be available.
“Fort Scott City Manager Brad Matkin has let us use the popcorn maker from the LaRoche Stadium Complex,” he said. “Candy and pop will be available to purchase.”
The group has its own projector and inflatable movie screen, and are in the process of planning for a movie next month as well, he said.
Ice Skating Rink Fundraiser: Pumpkin Rolls, Order by November 6
Eat At Sharky’s Today to Help Fundraise for the new Ice Skating Rink
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The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports Nov. 4
Right In The Middle by Carolyn Tucker
Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker
Right in the Middle
First thing in the morning, quite often I will step out onto the front porch to scrutinize the weather. One morning I was amazed to witness dark clouds to the west, thunder in the north, pleasant skies to the south, and sunshine to the east. It was a very mixed bag of elements. And where was I? Right in the middle of it. This scenario reminded me of life because some days are happy-go-lucky and some are tempestuous with no storm warning.
On stormy days or seasons, I must remember Psalm 68:5 which I have paraphrased on an index card that sits on my computer: “God is a father to the fatherless and a protector of the widow.” Interestingly, I am both fatherless and a widow. But I’m also rich according to God‘s heavenly storehouse. One definition of rich is: plentiful; a full supply; abundant provision. Apostle Paul wrote to the Church in Philippi and reminded them, “But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19 KJV).
Christ followers are rich in our heavenly Father’s love. We’re rich in His mercies every morning. We’re rich in His forgiveness. We’re rich in His protection. We’re rich in His peace, and the list could go on. As the Almighty Everlasting Father, God supplies us with whatever we need in every aspect. When children need something, all they have to do is ask their parents for it. When (not if) we have a stormy day with desperate needs, we too are to ask our Father and then, “Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act“ (Psalm 37:7 NLT).
On one of my darkest days a few years ago, I placed a magnet on my refrigerator that read, “Even when you don’t see it, God is working things out for your good.“ That statement based on Romans 8:28 gave me hope that the present storm would eventually end. Not every storm that hits is in the forecast, so the magnet remains in plain sight to encourage me whenever I find myself in the middle of another storm. From his own experience, King David wrote, “God’s glory is all around me! His wrap-around presence is all I need, for the Lord is my Savior, my hero, and my life-giving strength. Join me, everyone! Trust only in God every moment. Tell Him all your troubles and pour out your heart-longings to Him. Believe me when I tell you — He will help you!” (Psalm 62:7,8 TPT). As Bro. Smith, my childhood pastor, would say, “God is still on the throne.”
If we believers could really grasp the truth that there’s no risk of failure with God, we wouldn’t let worry and anxiety paralyze us when the storms of life hit us square in the face. We don’t like the painful experience, but our faith grows during the roughest times in our life. I want to be like King David and have a bold, unshakeable, triumphant faith that doesn’t tear to shreds when the stormwinds blow.
Let these scriptures settle your soul and give you peace: “I will greatly protect you. I will set you in a high place, safe and secure before My face. I will answer your cry for help every time you pray, and you will find and feel My presence even in your time of pressure and trouble” (Psalm 91:14-15 TPT).
The Key: Where is Jesus when the storms of life hit? Right in the middle with us.
Feeling Stretched as a Caregiver?
It’s a fact, caregivers have higher levels of stress than non-caregivers. If you are serving as a caregiver to a loved one, I want you to know you are fulfilling a valuable role! I also want you to know, that it is ok to take care of yourself too.
While we can’t stop stress from occurring, we can help manage it. Too much stress, especially over a long time, can harm your health. You may not get enough sleep or physical activity, or eat a balanced diet — which increases your risk of medical problems.
The following are some ideas to help you manage your caregiver stress:
- Take a break from caregiving. Take a walk or meet up with a friend. Do something not related to caregiving.
- Get support. Attend a support group, have a friend you can call just to let off steam, or look for community resources.
- Read a book, meditate, pray, garden, knit, take a long bath.
- Take care of your health. Go to the doctor, get routine exams and flu shots, get enough sleep, and eat your fruits and vegetables.
- Change “guilt” to “regret.” Guilt means you did something wrong, regret means that you are in a difficult situation and sometimes you have to make difficult decisions, but they are not wrong.
- Forgive yourself—often. You cannot be a perfect caregiver, all day, every day.
- Ask for and accept help when offered. No one can do this alone. We often don’t know what to say when someone offers help. Prepare for this and create a task list to have ready. When someone asks you if they can help, refer to your list and say “YES.” Let them choose what task on the list they would like to do!
- And finally….Laugh. Find ways to keep your sense of humor on a daily basis.
For more information contact Tara Solomon-Smith, [email protected], or call 620-244-3826.
# # #
Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service
In-Person Advance Voting Ends at Noon on November 4
What’s Happening In Fort Scott Nov. 1 Newsletter
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Agenda for the Nov. 5 City of Fort Scott Meeting
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
November 5, 2024 – 6:00 P.M.
- Call to Order
- Roll Call
Tim VanHoecke, Matthew Wells, Dyllon Olson, Kathryn Salsbury, Tracy Dancer
III. Pledge of Allegiance
- Invocation
- Approval of Agenda
- Consent Agenda
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1371-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of October 10, 2024 – October 29, 2024 – $ 673,364.99
- Approval of Minutes for October 15, 2024.
- Approval of Ordinance No. 3772 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 10.04 OF THE FORT SCOTT MUNICIPAL CODE TO INCORPORATE STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCES for changes in STO for the 51st Edition of the Standard Traffic Ordinances publish in 2024
- Approval of Ordinance No. 3773 – AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 10.05 REGULATING PUBLIC OFFENSES WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF FORT SCOTT, KANSAS; INCORPORATING BY REVERENCE THE UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE FOR KANSAS CITIES, 40TH EDITION, “WITH CERTAIN OMISSIONS, CHANGES, AND ADDITION; PRESCIRBING ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS; AND PROVIDE CERTAIN PENALTIES
- Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Invoice #17591 – Project No. 24-414 – Horton St. and 6th Improvements – Salary – $24,423.45
- Request to Pay – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. – Pay Estimate No. 6 – Invoice #17589 – KDOT Project No. 06 KA-6898-01 – EEI Project No. 23-15A/ US-54 CCLIP Phase I – Design 67.8% – $24,483.14
- Request to Pay – Project No. 24-414 – Horton St. & 6th Street Improvements – Heck & Wicker, Inc. – Application for Payment No. 4 – $402,686.80
VII. Public Comment – Sign up required before the beginning of the meeting on register at the entrance of the Commission Room. Public Comments are for any topic not on the agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.
VIII. Appearances – Must be scheduled with the City Clerk at least (1) week prior to the meeting
you wish to address the Commission. You will be scheduled on the agenda to speak on your topic.
- Casey Brown/Community Engagement Coordinator of SEK-CAP – Update on current ridership and request for (2) Letter of Support and Matching Funds Request to continue services in 2025.
- Representative from American Legion – To discuss Memorial Hall meeting room.
- Unfinished Business
- Status of Building at 118 E. Wall – L. Kruger
- New Business
Public Hearing:
- Resolution No. 33-2024 – RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 418 S. COUCH – Tabled from October 15, 2024 – L. Kruger
- Consideration to Approve a Conditional Use Permit for a Verizon Telecommunication Tower at 2317 Maple – Planning Commission Case No. 1046 – Not recommended by the Planning Commission on October 2, 2024 – N. Nation
- Consideration to Approve a Rezoning Request from Commercial 1 (C1) to Industrial 2 (I2) at 602 E. 10th Street for the Purpose of Vehicle Storage and (Possible) Repair – Planning Commission Case No. 1048 – Recommended for Approval by the Planning Commission on October 2, 2024 – N. Nation
- Consideration of Petition to Vacate a Portion of Alley in Southside Park Addition submitted by Jason Marbery – N. Nation
Action Items:
- Approval of Annual Christmas Parade Permit on December 5, 2024 – B. Matkin
- Consideration of Bids for WWTP Maintenance and Installation Services – S. Flater
- Consideration of Bids for Demolition of Structures: 1721 E. Wall, 323 W. Wall, 1619 E. Pine and 402 S. Lowman – Kruger
- Consideration for approval to remove (2) FAA-owned Visual Approach Slope Indicators (VASI) at Fort Scott Municipal Airport and replace with (2) City-owned Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPI) – M. Wyatt/Planning, Housing and Business Development Director and Bryan Matkin/Asst. Manager-FSK
- Consideration of Approval to Pay Invoice #161277 – Champlin Tire Recycling, Inc. – $31,200.00 – $15,500.00 from Parks Tax Fund – $15,600.00 from KDHE Waste Tire Grant Program awarded January 2024 requiring 50/50 match – Wyatt
- Consideration of Annual Holiday Bonus for City Employees – Matkin
- Reports and Comments
- City Manager Comments
- Engineering Comments
- Commissioners Comments
- City Attorney Comments
XII. Adjourn
Unapproved Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission for Oct. 15
CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes of October 15, 2024 Regular Meeting
A Work Session was held on October 15, 2024 at 5:00PM directly followed by the regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. Both meetings are available on the City of Fort Scott YouTube Channel. Time stamps according to recording.
The meeting called to order at 6:00PM. Commissioners Tim VanHoecke, Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells, and Kathryn Salsbury were present with Mayor Tracy Dancer.
Audience in Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering, Officer Colby Davidson/FSPD, Norm Nation/Codes Enforcement, Jessica Oliphant/BakerTilly (via telephone), Michael Hoyt, Ann Rawlins, Don Banwart/President of OFGS, and Joseph Lotterer, Jose Montanez (via telephone)
- Dancer led the Pledge of Allegiance and B. Matkin said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda – (Time stamp 2:05)
- Dancer requested the removal of Kathy Dancer from Appearances. She will appear at a later date.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to add Approval of the Certificate of Appropriateness for 12 N. Main Street – as it has been approved by SHPPO and satisfied the Commission’s request at the September 17, 2024, meeting – to Unfinished Business – Item C. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the Agenda as amended with the removal of Kathy Dancer and Item C added to Unfinished Business – 12 N. Main – Certificate of Appropriateness. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Approval of Consent Agenda – (Time stamp 3:56)
– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1370-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of September 25, 2024 – October 8, 2024 – $ 734,821.86
– Approval of Minutes for October 1, 2024.
– September Financials
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the Consent Agenda. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Public Comments (Time stamp 4:34) – No comments
Appearances (Time stamp 4:36) – No appearances
(Time stamp 4:50)
Unfinished Business
Status of Building at 118 E. Wall – Requested documents from owner due per October 1, 2024, extension approved until October 15, 2024 –B. Matkin provided an update: have not received the requested Structural Engineer’s report, work is complete on the face of the building, contractor has moved out of the area, and (B. Matkin) spoke with the owner today and informed him that a structural engineer needs to look at it before it can be reopened.
Discussion was had about the work completed and the existing concerns of the building.
(Time stamp 6:43) J. Dickman provided his observations and his recommendation.
(Time stamp 8:23) Further discussion was had regarding the next step to verify that the building and Wall Street are safe to open.
(Time stamp 12:43) Jose Montanez addressed the Commission by telephone.
Clarification was made by the Commission and the work completed must be certified by a structural engineer.
(Time stamp 18:52) Discussion began regarding the City providing an independent structural engineering report.
(Time stamp 19:59) B. Matkin left the meeting and immediately returned (Time stamp 20:11).
ACTION: J. Dickman will contact an independent structural engineer to complete the inspection of the building.
ACTION: J. Montanez will reach out to the original structural engineer (Thomas Rewert) to see if he will certify the completed work.
ACTION: T. VanHoecke directed J. Dickman and B. Matkin to hire a structural engineer to inspect the building.
(Time stamp 28:11) T. VanHoecke left the meeting and returned to the meeting (Time stamp 29:48).
- Dancer stated that the Commission agrees that the owner has not complied with the requests and that the condition of the building is not safe.
It was clarified that the City will get a 3rd party structural engineer to certify that entire building is not a public hazard. J. Montanez will seek certification from Thomas Rewert however the City will move forward with their inspection as a matter of due diligence for public safety.
(Time stamp 39:10) – Consideration to Approve Renewal of the Downtown Historic District and Riverfront Park Common Consumption Area Permit (existing Ordinance No. 3756) – annual permit expires November 21, 2024 – Tabled from October 1, 2024.
- Matkin stated that he spoke with Jill Jaworski/Superintendent of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, and they have no issues with the extension of the Common Consumption Area to include the pavilion and Skubitz Plaza.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the renewal of the downtown Historic District and Riverfront Park Common Consumption Area Permit.
- Wells stated that the superintendent also stated that people are allowed to walk from Skubitz Plaza on to the Fort grounds (and back) with alcohol according to the National Park agreement with the current superintendent. They ask that people are respectful and obey all laws when doing so.
- Wells stated that the superintendent had also asked that sometime in the future, the Commission consider permanently closing the drive-through area in Skubitz Plaza to create an additional seating area and making all of Skubitz Plaza a pedestrian only area.
- Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 42:11) Consideration to approve the Certificate of Appropriateness – 12 N. Main – Construction of An Exterior Metal Awning – Previously approved by the Design Review Board but denied by the City Commission on September 17, 2024. The Commission requested that the owner seek approval from SHPPO or use an approved material.
- VanHoecke stated that the owner came back with approval from SHPPO with the stipulation that it must be a matte finish and must not be the raised seams which satisfied the requirements of the Commission.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the request from Be the Light Boutique that was previously approved by the Design Review Board for 12 N. Main. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. D. Olson, K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes. M. Wells voted no.
MOTION PASSED BY 4-1 VOTE.
New Business
Public Hearing:
(Time stamp 43:18)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Ordinance No. 3771 – Floodplain Management Ordinance – Pursuant to 44 CFR Sect. 60.3(d) – Regulatory Floodway Identified, K.S.A. 12-766 and K.A.R. 5-44-1 through 5-44-7 . M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Nation stated that the ordinance is a renewal done every (5) years for FEMA in order to participate should we experience flood issues.
- Olson requested that on page 2 of the ordinance, that Linn County we changed to Bourbon County.
There was no public comment.
(Time stamp 46:18)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve Ordinance No. 3771 with the exception of changing Linn County to Bourbon County (page 2) to be considered approved once the correction is made. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION APPROVED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 47:27)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 28-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 1721 E. Wall. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION APPROVED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Nation stated that the owner of record were contacted and stated it was inherited from their father. They do not want to repair it and ask that the structure be removed. There were no public comments.
(Time stamp 49:20)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the removal of the structure at 1721 E. Wall as directed by Resolution No. 28-2024. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 50:03)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 29-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 323 W. Wall. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Nation stated that the project began December 11, 2023. The homeowner requested an opportunity to gather finances to restore the structure but was unsuccessful and tried to sell the property. The Codes department worked with the homeowner to give her time to find the means to save the home however the bids she received to restore the home were more than the value. He stated that the homeowner contacted Codes approximately (1) month ago and stated that she had exhausted her resources and had no problem with the structure being removed. There were no public comments.
(Time stamp 51:55)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Discussion was had regarding the condition of the home and salvaging architecture.
MOTION: D. Olson moved to approve the removal of the structure at 323 W. Wall as directed by Resolution No. 29-2024. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. D. Olson, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes. K. Salsbury and M. Wells voted no.
MOTION PASSED BY 3-2 VOTE.
Further discussion was had regarding the purpose of the City identifying and rectifying dangerous and unsafe structures.
(Time stamp 1:01:48)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 30-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure located at 1619 E. Pine. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Nation stated that the owner of the property has not done maintenance on the property for years, has been sent multiple letters from Codes Enforcement but is now deceased. The son has removed what he wishes to keep from the structure and stated that the City can do as they please. The condition of the structure was discussed. There were no public comments.
(Time stamp 1:03:31)
MOTION: M. Wells moved to close the public hearing. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the removal of the structure at 1619 E. Pine as directed by Resolution No. 30-2024. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 1:04:17)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 31-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 1105 E. Scott. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Nation stated that all communication with the owners had been lost however the outside of the property was cleaned up last year but the issues with the structure were not addressed. Letters were sent and phone calls were made but there has been no response. There were no public comments.
(Time stamp 1:05:59)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Discussion was had regarding saving properties from demolition, the purpose of the Land Bank, and options for salvaging this property.
- Matkin left the meeting (Time stamp 1:10:30)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to table Resolution No. 31-2024 regarding the structure at 1105 E. Scott until November 19, 2024, giving Codes the opportunity to reach out to the owner or heir of the owner to ask if they would be willing to donate the property “as is” to the Land Bank at which point he would need to be willing to fill out the required documents in order to obtain a clear title. It would then be presented to the Land Bank for approval or rejection. If rejected, the structure may need to be removed.
- Farmer left the meeting (Time stamp 1:11:53)
- Wells seconded the motion. T. VanHoecke, M. Wells, K. Salsbury and T. Dancer voted yes. D. Olson voted no.
MOTION PASSED BY 4-1 VOTE.
(Time stamp 1:12:32)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 32-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 402 S. Lowman. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Matkin returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:13:01)
- Nation stated that the owner of record is deceased. There is a son who had lived in the structure but has since left and his whereabouts are unknown. The tax status is unknown. There are children in the immediate area and safety is an immediate concern.
Discussion was had on the condition of the structure and prior history of it coming before the Commission. There were no public comments.
(Time stamp 1:14:19)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing.
- Farmer returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:14:25)
- Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the removal of the structure at 402 S. Lowman as directed by Resolution No. 32-2024. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 1:15:01)
MOTION: M. Wells moved to open the public hearing for the Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 33-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure at 418 S. Couch. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Joseph Lotterer (resident of 418 S. Couch) addressed the Commission and stated that he had been staying at 418 S. Couch for the past year. When he moved in, the front porch was an attached structure that was falling in but it has been removed. He stated that he is still making repairs to the house. His friend Amanda is the owner of the house and it belonged to her mother. Amanda does not live in the home. J. Lotterer stated that he has her on the phone if they wanted to speak to her. The Commission declined.
- Nation stated that he does not have details because Leroy Kruger has been the one on this case. L. Kruger was not able to be present. N. Nation stated that the owner of record is deceased. J. Lotterer stated that Amanda is the next of kin, the daughter of the owner. He stated that he has removed the front porch roof, he is fixing the deck and is putting new siding and plywood up on the back side with more repairs to come. He stated that he only remembers receiving a letter to stating that he needed to get the yard cleaned up. Amanda moved out and left everything there but he was trying to get everything of his into the home so he was putting her stuff out into the yard. He does not have a vehicle so it is hard to get things cleaned up and hauled off but it’s a work in progress. He stated that it looks a lot better than it did but he does not remember getting a letter. He lives there with his friend. He stated the picture the Commission is looking at is an old picture and he has done a lot of work to it since then, a lot of clean up. He does not have a timeline for completion because he does not know what must be done. He saw the notice for the public hearing on the agenda.
- Olson stated that the name on the letter was different than the owner of record on the county parcel record.
- VanHoecke explained to J. Lotterer that he would like to table the consideration to a future meeting to clarify facts with the Codes Department regarding the letter that went out and other communications so the Commission can make a fair decision on the matter. J. Lotterer was asked to return to that meeting.
(Time stamp 1:21:50)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to close the public hearing. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to table Resolution No. 33-2024 – Directing the Repair or Removal of an Unsafe Structure at 418 S. Couch until November 19, 2024. M. Wells seconded the motion.
ACTION: T. VanHoecke requested that J. Lotterer leave his contact information for the Codes Department before he leaves the meeting. J. Lotterer agreed.
All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Action Items:
Consideration to Approve Resolution No. 27-2024 – Operation Greenlight for Veterans – that in observance of Operation Green Light, the City of Fort Scott, Kansas encourages its citizens in patriotic tradition to recognize the importance of honoring all those who made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve freedom by displaying green lights in a window of their place of business or residence from November 4th through the 11th, 2024. M. Hoyt addressed the Commission regarding his request to approve the Resolution. He stated that the draft came from the Kansas Association of Counties. They asked that the City or the County take a picture and they will include them in their publication.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve Resolution No. 27-2024 – Operation Green Light for Veterans. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Wells left the meeting (Time stamp 1:25:41)
Consideration to Approve Healthcare MOU – B. Farmer stated that the County and the City have been working together to establish an ER along with Freeman Hospital.
- Wells returned to the meeting (Time stamp 1:26:49)
He continued that the Commission was provided a copy of a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between Freeman and the County. The County will sign the document, but they want the City to approve it to form. He summarized a meeting that took place with Freeman Hospital that he, the City Manager, and the Mayor attended. This document is the first step along with a Funding Agreement. B. Farmer requested that the City Commission approve the document in form.
- VanHoecke stated that the terms and the amount are the same as what they had approved to give Amberwell.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the MOU for Healthcare to Freeman Hospital. D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
- Farmer explained the details of the Funding Agreement and stated that Freeman Hospital (Paula Baker) agreed to give an accounting of how the $600,000.00 is spent.
- Olson confirmed with B. Farmer that in the agreement, Freeman Hospital agreed to reimburse the money over the course of payments if they do not open.
- Farmer gave further details on what has been happening with the process of opening the ER.
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to approve the Funding Agreement for Freeman Health Center with the terms that were provided in the agreement for accountability of the money, money coming back if they do not open in order to get them the lump sum of money that will bring the ER in Fort Scott. D. Olson seconded the motion. D. Olson, K. Salsbury, T. VanHoecke and T. Dancer voted yes. M. Wells abstained.
VOTE PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.
Consideration to Approve Federal-Aid Fund Exchange Master Agreement – B. Farmer stated that this was an agreement to receive federal money for projects. He stated that he has reviewed it and encourages the Commission to approve.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to approve the master agreement. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Consideration to Appoint Ann Rawlins to the Fort Scott Planning Commission – Recommended by the Planning Commission on October 2, 2024, to fill the vacant seat of the (7) member Commission.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to appoint Ann Rawlins to the Fort Scott Planning Commission. K. Salsbury seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Consideration of MOU Between City of Fort Scott and Old Fort Genealogical Society (OFGS) for Usage of the Eastern Side, Lower Level of Memorial Hall
Discussion was had about the terms of the agreement.
- Lewis left the meeting at (Time stamp 1:40:21 and returned at 1:40:33).
- Rawlins distributed a map of the proposed plans and discussion continued with questions answered by D. Banwart and A. Rawlins. They confirmed that they have insurance for their contents as well as liability insurance for their space. D. Banwart described their plans for the OFGS which include a museum and the proposed agreement between the Katy Railroad Society, OFGS, and the railroad museum of Dennison, TX. Discussion was had about the status of the meeting space of the American Legion with the proposed improvements and the preservation and possession of historic City documents and maps that are stored at Memorial Hall.
MOTION: M. Wells moved to table the discussion until the Commission can go through a few of the items in the MOU, correct the issues they might have, talk with the American Legion, and then present another MOU. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
Consideration of a Change Order on Project No. 6 U-2455-01 Horton St. & 6th St. Project – Replace/Repair Inlet and Manholes – J. Dickman informed the Commission about the scope of the repairs and replacement for a total of $22,384.36 and the addition of (4) working days on the project.
MOTION: D. Olson moved to approve the change order as presented. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
City Manager Comments:
– Bourbon County Commission announced a Burn Ban that includes the City of Fort Scott
– Water supply is good and Cedar Creek is open, Rock Creek is not open. If we do not receive rain, it may need to be opened
– Cape Seal Project Update – concerns about quality of work
City Engineer Comments:
– Horton Street & 6th Street Project Update
– Structural Engineer has been contacted regarding 118 E. Wall
- Olson Comments:
– Requested moving the next meeting to November 6th
- VanHoecke Comments:
– Suggested volunteering for holidays
– Shop and support local businesses
- Wells Comments:
– Skubitz Plaza Repair Plan revisited
– Consideration to permanently close the road in Skubitz Plaza and Main Street as walking district only
ACTION: B. Matkin will look into the status of the Skubitz Plaza Repair Plan.
- Salsbury Comments:
– Halloween Parade Permit – not needed due to no street closure
– Expansion of the School Speed Limit Zone on National to 8th Street
ACTION: B. Matkin will start looking for grants for additional lights. Flags are already in place
- Dancer Comments:
– No comments
City Attorney Comments:
– Traffic flow changes at the Fort
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved for the City Commission to move into Executive Session for the purpose of a discussion pursuant to the personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The (5) City Commissioners, the City Attorney and the City Manager will meet in the City Managers office and will return to the Commission Room at 8:28PM). D. Olson seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 2:28:10)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to come out of Executive Session. M. Wells seconded the motion. T. VanHoecke, M. Wells, D. Olson and T. Dancer voted yes. K. Salsbury was not present for the vote.
MOTION PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.
MOTION: M. Wells moved for the City Commission to move into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion on the streets pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts, and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). The (5) City Commissioners, the City Attorney, the City Manager, and the City Engineer will meet in the City Manager’s office and will return to the Commission Room at 8:38PM. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. T. VanHoecke, M. Wells, D. Olson and T. Dancer voted yes. K. Salsbury was not present for the vote.
MOTION PASSED BY 4-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 2:39:01)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to come out of Executive Session. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
MOTION: D. Olson moved for the City Commission to move into Executive Session for the purpose of a discussion of the City’s IT Infrastructure pursuant to the matters relating to security measures exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(12). Open discussion would jeopardize such security measures. Executive session is needed to protect the infrastructure and the public. The (5) City Commissioners, the City Attorney and the City Manager will meet in the City Manager’s office and will return to the Commission Room at 8:55PM. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 2:56:18)
MOTION: M. Wells moved to come out of Executive Session. T. VanHoecke seconded the motion. All voted yes.
MOTION PASSED BY 5-0 VOTE.
(Time stamp 2:56:30)
MOTION: T. VanHoecke moved to adjourn. M. Wells seconded the motion. All voted yes.
OCTOBER 15, 2024 MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:56PM
_______________________________________________________________________
Submitted by:
Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk