June 2001 Minutes

These are the minutes for June 2001, as approved by the Bourbon County Commission.

June 1, 2001	June 4, 2001
June 8, 2001	June 11, 2001
June 15, 2001	June 18, 2001
June 22, 2001	June 25, 2001
June 29, 2001

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June 1, 2001 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners present. Jim Harris and Joanne Long were also present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

Jim Harris met with the commissioners to discuss road and bridge projects. Robert Query asked if all the mowers were running today. Mr. Harris said that all but one were running, with one in the repair shop because it burned up. He mentioned that the insurance company thought it could be repaired. Mr. Houston asked if the gravel trucks were moving today. Since the rock crusher has been down due to a belt break and a broken frame, there hasn't been much rock crushed lately, but the belt was in and a new frame would be available Tuesday which should permit crushing to resume on Wednesday. Mr. Harris also stated that, unless there is excessive rain over the weekend, the county would begin laying hot mix on Monday.

Mr. Harris passed out a breakdown of the tires that were hauled to the landfill during the city clean-up project last month. The fees were waived at the gate but tires were not part of the original agreement with the city. The city said they would reimburse us for any tires that were picked up. The total comes to 334 heavy truck, tractor and car tires for a cost of $1,428.00. The commissioners agreed to bill the city for that amount. Mr. Harris also mentioned that the city demolished the old rural water building on the north edge of Fort Scott and cleared the lot. The loads were taken to the landfill and the city is asking the county to waive those gate fees. The commissioners agreed to do so.

Jim Harris told the commissioners that a county employee is interested in purchasing two glass lamp globes that are not being used. The commissioners said that items purchased by the county cannot be sold to individuals without being offered to everyone and that such items would cost more to advertise than they would bring in from a sale. The commissioners denied the request.
Mr. Harris gave the commissioners an update on the proposed landfill regulations from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. They will become law. They require strict design requirements and operation standards that will apply to all landfills. They will also forbid landfills being on leased land such as in Bourbon County. These regulations will force our landfill to close, as Bourbon County does not take in enough tons to operate. Mr. Houston asked Mr. Harris to find out if suitable clay will qualify as a liner for sanitation fill. Perhaps the county can find a property to continue.

Larry Nuss came to present an amended petition for a vacation of a road in College Hills Subdivision for Dean and Rebecca Mann. He asked the commissioners to set a date for a public hearing on the matter. The commissioners signed the order for hearing and it was attested to by the clerk. The hearing will be June 22, 2001, at 9:00 am, in the Commission Room.
Robert Query mentioned that he noticed along several county roads that had been mowed, there was a strip of about 3"-6" where the mower missed along the chat piles. He stated that with the price of gasoline so high, the mowers should take extra care not to miss any grass, as it takes as much gasoline to mow a 4' swath as it does a 3" strip. He suggested telling the mowers that anyone who misses grass be requir4ed to return with a trimmer to finish the job. Mr. Harris will inform the crew.

Jim Harris asked if the commissioners wanted to hire part-time help to work the asphalt crew. Mr. Query feels we should use the employees we have now for the job. Terry Graham would like to hire new help so as not to deprive any other county road and bridge projects. Mr. Houston wanted to research the matter before making a decision. He asked how many employees are in the Public Works department and how many were there in 1999 and 1996 to compare. No action at this time.
Joanne Long told the commissioners that the County Appraiser certified Real Estate Values on May 30, 2001.

The clerk spoke to the commissioners about a request for a change in the salary for an employee. The county does not currently have a provision for a part-time employee who has worked several summers to receive higher pay than the stated $6.11 per hour. The Road & Bridge department has a sliding scale for part-time employees based on experience and she would like the courthouse to be included also. Terry Graham made a motion to change the salary resolution for part-time courthouse employees to a scale of $6.11 to $7.50 per hour with the rate to be determined by the commissioners based on the experience of the individual employee. Gary Houston seconded. All in favor. Addendum to Salary Resolution 01-04 was drafted and signed. The commissioners agreed to set Angel Wilson, part-time office staff in the County Attorney's office, to $6.80 per hour.

Kay Metcalf popped in to thank the commissioners for mowing the grass near the cemeteries before Memorial Day.

At 11:00 am, chemical bids were opened with Lee Davis present. They were as follows:

UAP/Timberland	Glyflo 2 x 2 1/2	200 @ $ 27.00 =	$ 5,400.00
	Remedy 2 x 2 1/2	50 @ $ 80.22 =	$ 4,011.00
	Plateau 2 x 1	4 @ $307.20 =	$ 1,228.80
	Total:		$10,639.80
Ag Choice	Glyflo 2 x 2 1/2	200 @ $ 25.10 =	$ 5,020.00
	Remedy 2 x 2 1/2	50 @ $ 84.44 =	$ 4,222.00
	Plateau 2 x 1	4 @ $323.50 =	$ 1,294.00
	Total:		$10,536.00
Van Diest Supply Co.	Glyflo 2 x 2 1/2	200 @ $ 25.80 =	$ 5,160.00
	Remedy 2 x 2 1/2	50 @ $ 80.42 =	$ 4,021.00
	Plateau 2 x 1	4 @ $307.20 =	$ 1,228.80
	Total:		$10,409.80

The commissioners agreed to accept the bid from Van Diest Supply Co.

Commissioners Houston and Query went to inspect bridge work. They returned at 12:30 pm to report that the north bridge was close to completion. However, they were disappointed to see that four mower men were working on the bridge instead of mowing their sections as they were told was the case earlier this morning.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 12:40 pm.
THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Robert Query, Chairman
(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 4, 2001 Monday 9:23 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Robert Query and Gary Houston present. Joanne Long was also present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

Gary Houston made a motion at 9:35 am to go into executive session for a period of 10 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel. Robert Query seconded and all voted in favor. Those to be present in the session were Robert Query, Gary Houston and Joanne Long. The regular meeting resumed at 9:45 am.

The Commissioners spent the majority of the morning reviewing the Road & Bridge Department of the county, including salaries and positions.

Judy Orton, County Appraiser, and Roger Lee, Field Appraiser, joined the meeting at the request of the commissioners. Gary Houston made a motion at 10:42 am to go into executive session for a period of 12 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel. Robert Query seconded. All in favor. Those to be present in the session were Robert Query, Gary Houston, Judy Orton, Roger Lee and Joanne Long. The regular meeting resumed at 10:54 am at which time Gary Houston asked Judy Orton if she would assume the responsibility of 911 addressing for Bourbon County, until her contract expires June 30, 2001. She indicated she would. The responsibility will be a subject in the contract negotiations later this month. Gary Houston then asked Roger Lee if he would be interested in assuming the duties of LEPP coordinator, to inspect septic tanks, for a nominal fee per inspection. He indicated he would. Ms. Orton asked if the Appraiser Fund would be reimbursed for the use of the Appraiser's truck by the LEPP Fund. The commissioners agreed that a record of mileage should be kept for inspections and mileage paid to the Appraiser's Fund at the set county rate to cover wear and tear of the truck.

The commissioners spoke with Leonard Ramsey, Maintenance Supervisor. They asked him if he filled in for Jim Harris and Clyde Killion in their absence. He indicated he has in the past.
Dennis Fry, Benny Robbins, Ann Ludlum, Larry Gilliland, John Ericson, Laura George, Glenn Newcomer and Mike Beene came to present the 2002 County Extension Budget request to the commissioners. Mr. Ericson explained there is a 2% increase over last year's request which is due to the higher gasoline prices, insurance costs and salaries of the extension office employees. No action.

Delwin Mumbower came at the commissioners' request. When asked if he would assume the duties of emergency management coordinator, he stated that he would.

Tobin Wright met with the commissioners to ask for matching funds for a 6th Judicial District Grant. Robert Query made a motion to award $750.00 out of the Juvenile Detention Fund for matching funds for the 6th Judicial District Grant. Gary Houston seconded. All in favor. Mr. Wright will send a bill to the county for payment at a later date.

Gary Houston made a motion to restructure the Road & Bridge Department, due to the high cost of supplies, fuel, labor and for the benefit of the citizens of Bourbon County, it is necessary to restructure the Public Works Department and eliminate the position of County Coordinator. The duties shall be distributed as follows: 911 addressing to the County Appraiser, LEPP to the field appraiser, Roger Lee at this time, for a set fee per inspection and mileage to Appraiser Fund to cover wear and tear of vehicle, and Emergency Management Coordinator to the Rural Fire Coordinator, currently Delwin Mumbower. All of these duties are to take effect June 4, 2001. Robert Query seconded. All in favor.

Harold Coleman came to inform the commissioners and clerk of a death this weekend in Devon. A 44-year old woman passed away in her car. The doctor ordered an autopsy and the body was sent to Kansas City. Sheriff Coleman received a phone call from a funeral home near Joplin, Missouri, saying that the county will be billed for the travel expenses of sending the body from Kansas City to the funeral home. Sheriff Coleman told the funeral home director that those expenses were not the responsibility of the county but that of the family. The funeral home representative stated the family did not want to pay the expenses. He stated that the county would be billed. The sheriff was informing the clerk and commissioners and recommends denying the payment.

Jim Harris came at the commissioners' request. They asked what had been going on today. Mr. Harris told them they have been hauling rock and cleaning up. Mr. Houston told Mr. Harris that there had been a motion to eliminate the position of County Coordinator made and seconded earlier in the day. Mr. Harris asked if the county would honor his severance agreement. Mr. Query said it would. Mr. Harris stated he felt this was coming for a while because Mr. Houston campaigned against the position and Mr. Query had been unhappy with him for some time. Robert Query stated he was unhappy with the communication problems that were happening when the commissioners would tell Jim to do something--that by the time it went from the commissioners, to Jim, to Clyde, to the road crew, things were not done as asked. Mr. Harris asked if he was being offered another position with the county. He was told he was not being fired, but that the department had been restructured and the position eliminated. The commissioners said that there were no openings at this time but that he was welcome to apply for future positions with the county and that we would give him a good recommendation. They asked him for the password to his computer. He said there was no password and would show the commissioners how it functioned. He surrendered his keys and pager and asked the commissioners to accompany him to the Jeep to retrieve his personal belongings.

After Mr. Harris departed, the clerk asked the commissioners if she should pay Mr. Harris immediately his final check. The commissioners agreed.

After routine business the meeting adjourned at 2:45 pm.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Robert Query, Chairman
(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 8, 2001 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners present. Joanne Long was also present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

It was stated that the county rock crusher was up and running and had crushed 2,400 ton of rock in the last two days.

The monthly progress report from the County Extension office was received.

Sheriff Coleman asked the commissioners to sign a letter for the School Resource Officer Grant stating that the 4th year funding will be provided by the county, the school district or both. Robert Query signed the letter.

Leonard Ramsey, Maintenance Supervisor, reported that a gear for a grader costs $914.17. The county has had to replace one already. Now, another needs replaced due to pulled threads. It can be repaired, but will take about a week to do so. Leonard has learned from Caterpillar that this has been a problem on these models and that there was probably no way to prevent it from happening. We also have a third grader of this model. All three graders are out of warranty. He asked the commissioners if he should purchase the new gear or wait the week for the other one to be repaired. The commissioners agreed that the county cannot afford to be without a grader for a week, so they instructed Mr. Ramsey to purchase the new gear but to have the other repaired in case the third grader needs it in the future.

The commissioners asked if the mowers were running. Leonard reported that all mowers were running except one due to a flat tire, and that it was being repaired at that time.

Mr. Houston asked if the county had ever heard back on the wiring estimate from the company in Kansas City. No one had ever received a bid. Mr. Houston called the company and asked them to fax the bid.

The commissioners signed a proclamation declaring June as Business Appreciation Month in Bourbon County.

Joanne Long read an email to the commissioners from an individual who puts county road names on highway maps. He is asking the county to send him a map so that he may put our names on it and sell it back to us. No action.

Ms. Long also presented an amended order for a public hearing for the petition to vacate Juniper Road from Larry Nuss. The date for the hearing is set for June 29, 2001, 9:00 am. The commissioners signed two copies of the order.

The county clerk also presented the commissioners with two copies of a representation letter from the county auditor, Terry Sercer, of Diehl, Banwart, Bolton, Jarred & Bledsoe, Chartered. It is for the audit of financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2000. Robert Query and Joanne Long signed both copies of the letter.

The clerk presented the commissioners with a request for a delegate for the Kansas Association of Counties and a ballot for voting by the delegate for a representative from Kansas to the National Association of Counties Governing Board. Terry Graham made a motion that Robert Query, as commission chairman, be the delegate from Bourbon County for the Kansas Association of Counties. Gary Houston seconded. All in favor.

Lee Davis, Noxious Weed Director, called. The county has had a large run on Remedy and he needs more. He would like permission to purchase some more of the chemical immediately, without asking for bids as usual, as he needs the chemical before the end of the week. The commissioners asked if he could still get it at the last bid prices. Mr. Davis wasn't sure but would check. If the prices were no longer valid, the commissioners said to get his three prices from the companies he always does and record them and purchase from the lowest bidder. The commissioners asked Mr. Davis to present the board with the prices when he gets them and let them know what he did.
The clerk informed the commissioners that an adding machine in her office no longer works, probably due to lightning from the storms. Robert Query said to use the one on his desk.
Michael Shead asked the commissioners about the restructuring of Road & Bridge and the elimination of the position of County Coordinator. He asked what was happening with the Jeep. It is not being used at present. He asked how much of Jim Harris's salary was provided through grants. LEPP and LEPC supplement a few thousand dollars per year, but other than that, the salary is paid from the Road & Bridge Fund. The commissioners and clerk also answered questions posed from Mr. Shead about the timing and reasons behind the restructure. Robert Query said it made sense to place the responsibilities where they have been placed, with Judy Orton and Delwin Mumbower, as those people deal with those issues on a regular basis. Mr. Shead asked if the commissioners did not trust Mr. Harris, as a reason for having him gone in one day. The commissioners said that was not the case, and that in this day and age with computers and security, it's best to break ties immediately to eliminate the possibility of a problem with county resources and data and that the reasoning was not that the county did not trust Mr. Harris, only that in the past, the county has had a problem with computer data and it is best now to eliminate that possibility. Mr. Graham stated that the commissioners have to get along, and though he doesn't agree with the elimination of the position of County Coordinator, he hopes the county can continue to provide the same services it has since the installation of County Coordinator.

The commissioners received a phone call from Jason Arndt that the burned recycling trailer was repaired and ready for pickup.

Doylene Kennedy spoke with the commissioners. She had some questions about what was to be done about duties she had performed while Jim Harris was here. The commissioners informed her to continue doing the reports for the COPS grants and the paperwork for Elm Creek Lake, including taking reservations for shelter houses. The commissioners decided that it was no longer necessary for her to handle the bills for the courthouse general fund, as records are kept in the clerk's office. The commissioners also decided that the janitors no longer needed to report to Ms. Kennedy, but that David Neville would be the maintenance supervisor, and report to the commissioners if needed. The commissioners decided to return the office hours in the Public Works office to 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and directed Ms. Kennedy to close the office for lunch in the event there is only one employee in the office. The commissioners have not decided what to do about the cellular phone and pager that were used by Jim Harris, but have instructed Ms. Kennedy to keep the email account. Ms. Kennedy also stated that the road crew has been using work orders to keep track of projects and asked if they would continue to do so. The commissioners will speak to Clyde Killion.

Maury Thompson, Bill Ott and Bill Fiscus of Tri-Valley Developmental Services met with the commissioners to inform them that the grant application for the Workshop had been approved. They asked if it were okay to sign an agreement with an architect at this time. The commissioners suggested he speak with Sandy Erbe of the Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission first. They were also interested in beginning public relations on the project. No action.

David Neville came to speak with the commissioners. They informed him that he will no longer need to report to Ms. Kennedy, that he was doing a very good job and knows what needs to be done around the courthouse. He asked that the commissioners come up with some guidelines for him to follow concerning what he can and cannot do without prior approval. The commissioners will make a list. Mr. Neville discussed the need for ceiling fans in the third floor lobby area. There was approval to place them over a year ago, but the project was stalled. Now that summer is approaching, the district court is asking for the fans again. The commissioners agreed to purchase the fans. Mr. Neville also discussed a problem with the courthouse boiler. The timer is not functioning and he has learned that, due to its age, it cannot be repaired and a replacement is very hard to come by. Several local businesses have been approached but no one can find one and suggest putting a different timer on the boiler. The commissioners suggested he speak with the school maintenance crew, as they may know where to obtain the needed switch. He came back to report that he found a timer for $125.00 in Joplin. The commissioners okayed the purchase.

Judy Orton reported to the commissioners on the progress of the 911 address corrections and updates. Her office has checked all the maps with Parcel Identification Numbers in the system and is finding that in Fulton and Redfield, in particular, there are many houses with street addresses but no house numbers. She also stated that no churches or commercial businesses in the outlying county areas were assigned 911 addresses. Robert Query suggested she speak with the city clerks of the 3rd Class Cities that she is having problems with to obtain addresses, as the city most likely has a list for water bills. The commissioners also suggested she work with the Post Office as well. She was given the phone numbers she needed.

John Swarts came to update the commissioners on his hearing status. The decision will be made public at 8:00 am on July 13, 2001. He is making arrangements, with his office and the District Court, should the decision be against him and he be removed from office.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 3:00 pm.
THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Robert Query, Chairman
(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
(ss) Terry Graham, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 11, 2001 Monday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners present. Joanne Long was also present.

Clyde Killion met with the commissioners to discuss current road projects. Gary Houston commented that he supports Clyde in his decisions concerning placing employees for specific tasks. Robert Query and Terry Graham nodded in agreement.

Delwin Mumbower picked up some folders pertaining to Emergency Preparedness.

Terry Henning spoke with the commissioners. The city of Fulton needs about 100 Ton of asphalt. The commissioners agreed to the purchase, just as long as it doesn't short the county projects.
Denny Kohl, Lynn Smith, Sharon Elder and Opal Hess met with the commissioners to see if any decisions have been made concerning the wiring of the computers. The Infinitec bid has expired and will have to be recalculated and the Kansas City company's bid has never reached the commissioners. Lynn Smith had the bid. The two bids differ in the way to hook up the computers and there was some discussion as to which was better. Sharon Elder reported that as a recent meeting, she learned that many legal matters are now only available through the internet and her office currently does not have any personal computers. Many laws will become effective July 1, and that information is vital to her work. Opal Hess reminded the commissioners that the Vehicle Office needs the wiring done as soon as possible to comply with state mandates. No action.

Charlie Blevins spoke to the commissioners about speeders on Jayhawk Road. He asked if there was any way to deter them. Robert Query said he would contact the sheriff and ask him about using the radar.

Jerry Williams of the Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging met with the commissioners and presented the 2002 budget request and presented a bill for 2001 monies.

Bill Brittain appeared before the board to ask when the Elks Lodge would receive the promised funds for the annual fireworks display. The commissioners asked him to present a bill to the clerk's office for payment.

Tammie Underwood and Gene Parker met with the commissioners to discuss the state of roads in Garland. They asked if the county would supply some gravel and fill some chug holes that are very problematic. The county will get some gravel out there as soon as possible. It was also mentioned that the railroad right-of-way on Old Hwy 69 is overgrown. You can't see a train unless you're on the track. The commissioners noted that the trees in question are on private land, but will ask the owners if they may be cut back.

Larry Nuss came to get an update on the proposed chip and seal project in his neighborhood. He was told that a price was being figured for John Horn.

The City of Fort Scott would like to purchase tack oil from us. The commissioners agreed to the purchase as long as it doesn't set us back.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 3:00 pm.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Robert Query, Chairman
(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
(ss) Terry Graham, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 15, 2001 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners present. Joanne Long was also present.

Duane Ledford, Elm Creek Lake Caretaker, met with the commissioners to discuss a problem he has encountered with reservations. Several people are making reservations for shelter houses, especially for holidays, and not showing up. At the same time, many people go to the lake with cash in hand, wanting to rent a shelter, and are turned away because we are waiting for people to show up who never do. Many times a deposit has never been collected. The commissioners agreed to make it a policy that a reservation for Elm Creek Lake is not guaranteed until the deposit is paid.

Judy Orton met with the commissioners for a 911 addressing update. Her office has encountered several addresses that are not accurate. Many of them are only off very slightly and will never encounter a problem, however she has come across one that is off quite a distance. The owner has already paid to have his address carved in a stone. A second address is more than 1/4 mile wrong and the owner has had business cards made with the address. Ms. Orton was asking the commissioners opinion of what to do in these cases. The commissioners said to tell the owners that it is okay to keep the incorrect addresses at this time, but if other houses go up in the area, the addresses must be corrected. They also said it was okay if they preferred to change their address now.

There was discussion of miles traveled by part-time mowers for the county.

Whendi Embry, Attorney's Office Manager and Terri Johnson, Assistant County Attorney, met with the commissioners. They spoke with the commissioners regarding the salary of Angel Wilson, part-time legal secretary. They asked if she could be transferred to full time status during the summer months while she is out of college. The commissioners stated that current policy will not allow a courthouse employee to be placed on full time who does not meet the 1820 hour per year requirement. Also, if she were to be hired as full time, the position would have to be opened to the public. Ms. Wilson has been working for the county attorney's office for over three years, after school and during the summer, and is well trained. The clerk mentioned the clause in the salary resolution for the position of permanent part-time help, for employees of more than 12 months who work over 1000 hours annually. That position currently pays $8.47 per hour. Ms. Embry asked if that salary could be increased to $9.00 per hour. Terry Graham made a motion to create an addendum to the salary resolution to change the permanent part-time wage from $8.47 per hour to $9.00 per hour. Robert Query seconded and all commissioners voted in favor. Ms. Embry asked if the wage could be retroactive to May 15, 2001, when school ended. The commissioners said no, they could only go back as far as June 1, 2001. The change will be reflected on her next paycheck. Ms. Embry and Ms. Johnson thanked the commissioners.

At 10:30 am, Gary Houston made a motion to go into executive session for a period of fifteen minutes to discuss a legal matter under the attorney/client privilege exception. Robert Query seconded. All in favor. Those present in the session were the commissioners, Joanne Long and Terri Johnson, Assistant County Attorney. At 10:45 am the regular session resumed with no action.

Bob Schweikert of Evergreen Cemetery stopped in to request chip and seal for the cemetery. The estimated cost will be $3,046.88. The commissioners agreed to the request and will inform the road crew to put it on the schedule.

The commissioners received final contract papers for the lease of county land at 3rd & Couth from Voicestream Wireless. The commissioners held off signing the contract until they discuss the matter with Zack Reynolds.

Joanne Long, County Clerk, reported that the petition for a chip and seal benefit district for 195th Street between Kansas and Jayhawk and Justice Lane from 195th Street east met the 51% participation requirement. Robert Query made a motion to set a public hearing date for 10:00 am, Friday, July 20, 2001, for the proposed benefit district. Terry Graham seconded the motion. All in favor.

Sheriff Coleman reported that there are currently only two speed limit signs on Jayhawk Road between US 69 Hwy and the Missouri State Line. The sheriff stated that to enforce the speed limit, there should be a sign at each intersection. The commissioners agreed and will contact the sign man to place 45MPH signs on the road.

Representatives of the Southeast Kansas Mental Health board met with the commissioners for the annual budget request. Those present were Don Stewart, Bob Chase, Alan Hauser, Mary Bruner and Sam Mason. The 2002 proposed budget is $77,000, an increase of $10,000 from 2001.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 3:00 pm.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Robert Query, Chairman
(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
(ss) Terry Graham, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 18, 2001 Monday 9:10 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Terry Graham and Robert Query present. Gary Houston arrived at 9:40 am. Joanne Long was also present.

Jim Pickett and Richard Long, Consulting Engineers with Kirkham Michael Associates of Louisburg, Kansas, met with the commissioners to offer their services for future engineering projects. The commissioners will keep them in mind for future use.

The commissioners received a report from a citizen of a damaged road sign.

Clyde Killion, Maintenance Supervisor, met with the commissioners to discuss current Road & Bridge projects.

Bill Schoenberger, Cheryl Bennett, Wayne Thorpe and Ronnie Brown met with the commissioners to present the 2002 Conservation District Budget request. It is for $37,000, up $5,000 from 2001.

Jerry Nafzger met with the commissioners to request road work in Bronson. They would like 6 1/2 blocks of roads resurfaced. The commissioners will see what the schedule is like before committing to the project. Mr. Nafzger also asked the progress on Bronson's request for street signs from the 911 funds. Mr. Graham informed Mr. Nafzger the request had been forwarded to the City of Fort Scott, as they control the funds for 911, but that we have not received an answer. Terry Graham phoned Richard Nienstedt, City Manager, and set a meeting for Monday, June 25, 2001, at 9:00 am to meet with him to discuss it.

Terry Sercer, auditor with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton, Jarred and Bledsoe, Chartered, met with the commissioners to present the 2000 audit for Bourbon County. Mr. Sercer went over the audit briefly and answered questions from the commissioners regarding the upcoming sales tax increase. Mr. Sercer stated the money must be in separate funds for budget purposes. The expenses will come from Road & Bridge and the sales tax funds will reimburse Road & Bridge. This will be a more accurate way to account for the expenses from the sales tax revenue.

Chairman, Robert Query signed the annual emissions permits for the rock quarry.

Reed Alberg and Jeanne Shotton of Choice Solutions met with the commissioners to discuss wiring for the computers in the courthouse. No action.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 2:00 pm.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Robert Query, Chairman
(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
(ss) Terry Graham, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 22, 2001 Friday

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session at 9:10 am in the commission chambers of the Bourbon County Courthouse with commissioners Robert Query and Gary Houston present. Terry Graham arrived at 9:25 am after meeting with the city manager. Joanne Long was also present.

Public Works Supervisor, Clyde Killion, discussed current road projects with the commissioners. He also mentioned the need to purchase tubes for the department. The commissioners asked Mr. Killion to see if Welborn Sales Company will honor the last bid price we received. If so, he may purchase a load of tubes to keep us stocked until next year. If the price is higher, he must obtain bids.

Mr. Killion also mentioned the need to place labels on the recycling trailers identifying items allowed in each. The county has encountered problems when bringing the recyclables to Pittsburg when loads are contaminated with non-recyclable items. The company will turn a whole load away in such cases and it is often not possible to search through the loads when they contain broken glass. If a load is refused it must be disposed of in the dump. The commissioners agreed to the labels.

The city of Fulton would like 100 tons of hot mix beginning July 9, 2001. They have a crew to haul it and spread it, they just need to purchase it. They received a price of $19.95 per ton previously. The commissioners asked Mr. Killion to see if that price was still fair at current oil prices. The Board also inquired as to whether the purchase will short the county on its projects. Mr. Killion assured the commissioners it would not.

The commissioners also asked Mr. Killion to call area rock quarries to price chips to calculate a fair price to sell to cemeteries.

The commissioners received a bid from Choice Solutions of Kansas City for wiring of the Vehicle Office for $650.00. No action.

Mr. Killion asked the commissioners whom the state of Kansas should contact concerning the diversion of highway traffic to county roads. The commissioners agreed Mr. Killion should be contacted in such instances.

Mr. Killion also mentioned that the county should begin chip and seal projects in two weeks.

At 10:00 am a public hearing was held for the proposed closing of a railroad right-of-way in the Fort Scott Industrial Park. The commissioners, Joanne Long, Attorney, David Mullies and Maury Thompson and Bill Fiscus of Tri-Valley Developmental Services were present. After hearing no opposition, Terry Graham made a motion to authorize Chairman Robert Query to sign the vacation of the railroad right-of-way. Gary Houston seconded the motion and all voted in favor. The order was signed and attested to by the clerk and sent to the Register of Deeds to be filed. The hearing was closed at 10:07 am.

Morris Nelson met with the commissioners to discuss the agreement between he and the county over land purchased for use of the new county barn. An addendum to the contract states that the county will construct a privacy fence along the north edge of the property to hide the machinery and equipment from view. To this date, no fence has been constructed and Mr. Nelson had been told by Jim Harris that a fence would be built after the ground thawed. Mr. Nelson stated that he felt the fence should be at least two feet from the ground to allow small animals to roam, that it should not hinder the path of the wind and it should stand approximately 10' tall. The commissioners assured Mr. Nelson that they would begin work on the fence very soon.

The clerk asked what to do about the cellular phone and pager that were used by Jim Harris. The commissioners told her to cancel both accounts. They also told the clerk to call and have the internet account changed and Jim Harris's name removed from the email.

Judy Orton met with the commissioners to discuss the Appraiser contract which expires June 30, 2001. She brought a list of comparative counties stating the salaries of the other county appraisers. Based on the new work given her on 911 addressing and to help lessen the gap with other counties, she asked her contract be renewed at $42,000 annually with a 3% cost of living increase each January 1. The contract period is July 1, 2001 through June 30, 2005. The commissioners asked for the weekend to think it over and to meet with Ms. Orton at 11:00 am Monday, June 25.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 1:30 pm with no further action.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
(ss) Terry Graham, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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June 25, 2001 Monday

The Bourbon County Board of Commissioners met in open session at 9:00 am with Terry Graham and Robert Query present. Joanne Long was also present. Gary Houston arrived at 9:20 am.

Robert Query, Chairman and Joanne Long, Clerk, signed 8 permits for firework stands--six sold and two blanks if needed.

Clyde Killion, Public works Supervisor, discussed the need to purchase 911 road signs for the county to replace stolen or damaged signs. There were 159 signs on the list. The commissioners discussed the need to remind the citizens of the county that a person could be prosecuted for stealing a road sign that caused an accident or hindered emergency personnel getting to a home in an emergency. The commissioners approved the purchase of the signs.

At 10:00 am a public hearing was held to discuss the proposed changes to the Bourbon County Sanitation Code. The commissioners, Joanne Long and Roger Lee were present. After no opposition, Terry Graham made a motion to adopt the amendments to the Bourbon County Sanitation Code. Robert Query seconded the motion and all voted in favor. The hearing was closed at 10:15 am.

At 10:30 am a public hearing was held to discuss the proposed chip and seal benefit district for 240th Street between Kansas Road and US Highway 54. Those present were the commissioners, Joanne Long, Becki Roberts, Kent Roberts, Theresa Stewart, Dennis Stewart, Darrell Winter and Gary Saker. The commissioners, when asked, told the group that the project will probably not be done this year, as the schedule has already been filled, but that they are the next benefit district on the list, if it is passed. They also stated that weight limit signs will be erected to keep heavy trucks off the new road but that the enforcement will be left to the sheriff's department. After no opposition to the district was heard, Robert Query made the motion to establish a benefit district for 240th Street between Kansas Road and US Highway 54 for chip and seal. Terry Graham seconded the motion and all voted in favor. The hearing was closed at 10:55 am.

Judy Orton, County Appraiser, met with the commissioners to discuss her contract. After discussion, Gary Houston made a motion to sign a contract with Ms. Orton to be the Bourbon County Appraiser and handle 911 addressing for an annual salary of $40,800, with a 3% cost of living increase on January 1, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. Robert Query seconded the motion and all voted in favor. The contract was drafted as Resolution 01-17 and signed by all parties.

Lee Davis met with the commissioners and chemical quotes were opened at 11:30 am. Two quotes were received. They were as follows:

UAP/Timberland	Glyphosate 2 x 2 1/2	300 @ $27.65 =	$8,295.00
Van Diest Supply Co.	Glyphosate 2 x 2 1/2	300 @ $26.89 =	$8,067.00

Robert Query made the motion to accept the bid from Van Diest Supply Company for $8,067.00. Terry Graham seconded and all voted in favor.

The clerk asked for the commissioners to set a fee to pay Roger Lee for inspections he makes and for meetings he attends. The commissioners agreed to pay Mr. Lee $50.00 per inspection and to count a meeting as an inspection.

After routine business the meeting adjourned at 12:20 pm.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Gary Houston, Commissioner
(ss) Terry Graham, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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