August 2007 Minutes

These are the minutes for August 2007, as approved by the Bourbon County Commission.

August 03, 2007	August 06, 2007
August 10, 2007	August 13, 2007
August 17, 2007	August 20, 2007
August 24, 2007	August 27, 2007
August 31, 2007

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August 3, 2007 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners and the county clerk present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

Clyde Killion gave a road report.

Doylene Kennedy presented commissioners with a permit request for AT&T for consideration, sales tax monthly reports and a FEMA update as of 7/25/07. She also said that Road & Bridge is changing to the 911 map and Lois is working on that and plans to do it at home because of interruptions here. Commissioners approved the overtime.

Bill Brittain found that we can split the expenses on the bridge project over two years. All we need to do is send a letter.

Terry Sercer dropped off the final proposed County budget. It will be published tonight with an estimated 1.579 mill increase over 2007, with the cuts as directed on Monday. The public hearing is set for 10:00 am, Monday, August 13, 2007.

Laura Hyer met with commissioners. She said her carpet needs to be replaced because of the flood. She said it has been cleaned twice and it still smells. She also said that FEMA will help with the reimbursement. Joanne Long reminded commissioners that we knew that basement flooded when they carpeted it the first time and it doesn’t make sense to replace it when it will likely flood again. Laura Hyer said that it needs to be carpeted for the acoustics in the office. Commissioners said that the water came in from the east this time and we need to find out why before we decide to replace the carpet. David Neville was called up to ask him about it. Terry Graham said it used to come in from the south but it appeared to come from the east side this time. David believes that the ground was just so saturated that it seeped through the walls but it usually comes from the south and the east too. The commissioners asked if it could have been roof run-off but David said that the roof drains on the west side of the courthouse from the outside. He thinks we would need to waterproof the walls to prevent seepage in the future. Laura thinks we should get an estimate to see what it would cost. Commissioners asked David to call around to see if anyone does this kind of work.

Susan Quick shared with commissioners that Justin Meeks took the tax sale information and says we’re on track to have the tax sale at the end of September. She also said she directed Dan Meara to talk with Ellen Harper at Bronson about a special assessment from an old tax sale that he did for us.

Joanne Long asked commissioners if there isn’t some sort of hard rubber flooring or treatment that can be used in the basement, rather than purchasing new carpet when there will undoubtedly be flooding again. That way the sound level would be managed but the flooring will not be damaged from water. Commissioners like the idea.

Commissioners discussed the building the viewed last Monday. They liked it and think it would suit our purposes as a recycling center very well. It’s just a matter of financing. Bill Brittain will contact Wal Mart about it.

Commissioners discussed the caretaker situation at Elm Creek. Terry Graham made a motion to employ Jason Yakel and Nina Yakel as co-caretakers and night watchpersons at Elm Creek Lake, effective August 1, 2007, for a total combined wage of $800 per month. Gary Houston seconded the motion and all voted in favor. They will split the $800/month wage that Duane Ledford used to receive. They will both be part-time employees of Bourbon County.

Harold Coleman spoke with commissioners about a three-day seminar in Des Moines about courthouse and courtroom security that is coming up. He is interested in going. That led to a discussion of courthouse security and the jail.

Gary Houston left the meeting at 11:25 am.

Laura Hyer told commissioners of a regional week-long training of county personnel for disaster recovery. The training is provided free. There are several people interested but need more information on a timeline. Commissioners asked her to find out a time frame for it.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 11:30.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

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

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August 6, 2007 Monday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners and the county clerk present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and corrected.

Clyde Killion gave a road report.

Commissioners discussed a wage for County Counselor. Joanne Long reminded commissioners that the line items in the General Fund can change around as long as the published bottom line stays the same. After discussion, commissioners decided to budget $12,000 annually to Terri Johnson and $4,000 annually to Valorie LeBlanc, beginning in 2008, for county counselor. These wages will be set with the salary resolution for 2008, along with all other county wages, in January.

Gary Houston left the meeting at 9:45 am with Clyde Killion to look at culverts. He returned at 10:45 am.

Commissioners wrote a letter to KDHE regarding the voluntary clean-up requested of the property we purchased surrounding the landfill. The letter relays that Bourbon County did not own the property in question until December 22, 2006.

Bill Brittain left the meeting at 11:15 am to attend a City Hall committee meeting.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 11:45 am.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

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

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August 10, 2007 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.

Clyde Killion gave a road report. Bill Brittain relayed a request for a large reflective arrow sign at Bob Tuchscher’s place. People are missing the turn and running off the road.

Ron Chaney, Phoenix Coal Company, met with commissioners to have a road variance approved. Commissioners signed the variance agreement.

Commissioners discussed the trash service at Elm Creek Lake. Fort Scott Sanitation has balked on what they originally agreed to do for us and WCA also says they can’t do it weekly. WCA offered a larger dumpster and bi-weekly pick-up for $90/month. No action at this time.

Lynn Smith met with commissioners to ask to purchase a new folder. Pitney Bowes is offering a heavy-duty folder for $4,079. It also offers an annual maintenance agreement for $445/yr. None of our previous folders have ever come with maintenance or site support. They would send us a part and we would have to figure out how to install/replace it. She says she has enough money in the fees for web modules we have collected to pay for it. She also said that Pitney Bowes knows people who are interested in our old burster machine and the old Pitney Bowes folder. Commissioners advised her that the county would have to take bids to dispose of the property. Joanne Long will help her with writing it up. Commissioners approved the purchase but asked that $2,015.79 be paid out of Equipment Reserve and the balance out of the General Fund. There was also discussion of depositing or transferring future web fees into the Equipment Reserve Fund to help pay for purchases like this in the future. Right now, they are only deposited in the General Fund and not earmarked for anything.

Jane Burns asked commissioners what they plan to do on 180^thStreet. She lives at Maple and 180^th. Bill Brittain said the plans are to chip and seal. She also said that trees on 185^th Street between Maple and US 54 need cut back.

Harold Coleman discussed installing a video camera in the booking room of the jail to allow for first appearances without transporting the prisoners upstairs to court. It is more secure than taking them on the elevator with the public. Shane Walker will talk to you about the specifics. No action at this time.

Sheriff Coleman also discussed revamping the triangle around the statue in the lawn to kill off the grass this winter and plant flowers there. Judy Orton has some ideas to keep the costs down but still make it very attractive. Commissioners like the idea. Harold also said he’s gotten lots of compliments on the yard and he also stated that lots of people are taking pictures now that the yard is so appealing.

Judy Orton met with commissioners to update them on a Payment Under Protest hearing she had with the Blankenships over their 2006 property. She said that they understand now how she came to the value she did and are satisfied.

Laura Hyer met with commissioners. First, she thanked Public Works and the Corrections Department for their help with water distribution. She explained that we received nearly two semi loads of FEMA water after the flood. The water has been distributed to cities, fire departments, county offices and community buildings, as well as a large supply stored for emergency use. She reminded commissioners that we have been given space at the Heartland Tower at a very reasonable rent and it is very secure. The only thing that is being asked is that we help replace the fence and gate. The owner has gotten the materials and she said that inmates will be erecting it. She also wants commissioners to view the facility.

David Neville met with commissioners for the opening of the porch bids at 10:00 am. Laura said that FEMA might pay or help pay part of the porch repair. She explained that because the EOC is under it, it might be covered, however it might not and they might just say that it’s neglect on our part and deny the claim. Two bids were received. They were:

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August 13, 2007 Monday 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.

Bills and payroll for the period were reviewed and approved.

Commissioners discussed the contract with Western Uniform that was faxed to us. The commissioners feel that since it wasn’t signed by an authorized person it’s not valid. They will have the county attorney review it for us.

Terry Sercer met with commissioners for the budget hearing. Terry Graham opened the public hearing at 10:00 am. All three commissioners, the county clerk and Terry Sercer were present. No objections or questions to the budget were raised. After 10 minutes, Terry Graham made a motion to close the public hearing. Gary Houston seconded and all voted in favor. Terry Graham made a motion to adopt the budget resolution. Bill Brittain seconded and all voted in favor. Terry Graham then made a motion to adopt the budget as published. Gary Houston seconded and all voted in favor.

Terry Graham left the meeting at 10:15 am to run an errand.

Judge Ward, Judge Stephan and Pat Jackson met with commissioners to discuss courthouse/courtroom security. They discussed a situation from this morning in Judge Stephan’s courtroom where a defendant was taken out of the room as he was behaving oddly and getting combative. They want to be sure that the commissioners have budgeted to handle security next year. They also asked if there are any grants available for security. Commissioners asked Judge Ward to put a plan together of what is needed so commissioners can see what that is.

Terry Graham returned to the meeting at 10:52 am.

Terri Johnson met with commissioners about the laundry contract. She agrees that we are not bound by it and asked that Doylene send a letter to the company stating our intention to cancel their service.

Bill Brittain left the meeting at 11:00 am to run an errand and then meet the other commissioners at 180^th & Fern Road. The other commissioners left the meeting at 11:20 am to go to the intersection.

Meeting adjourned at 11:20 am.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

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

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August 17, 2007 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners and the county clerk present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

Ron Chaney, Phoenix Coal Company, met with commissioners with a corrected road variance agreement. He said that since they purchased the Bailey property, it needed to reflect that change. Commissioners noted that a section that was on the original is not on this corrected one. Mr. Chaney called and asked about that. He said that the missing paragraph would only be needed if the road is going to be closed, but since it won’t be, it doesn’t need to be there. Commissioners signed the corrected variance agreement.

Clyde Killion gave a road report. Joanne Long relayed a message from Bob Steele about a bridge on 155^th Street where a side has washed out and that he also requested dust control on his road again.

Joanne Long presented commissioners with a contract to house Bourbon County inmates at the Neosho County jail. Bill Brittain made a motion to enter into the contract, which is standard throughout the state at $40.00 per day per inmate. Terry Graham seconded the motion and all voted in favor.

Judy Orton met with commissioners to discuss Neighborhood Revitalization. The City of Fort Scott is updating the program and would like us to review it and consider joining it fully. She noted some differences from previous plans, including the transfer of the rebate to another owner, which will benefit people who buy and improve properties and then sell them. This will be an added incentive when selling improved homes in revitalized areas. This plan will also be retroactive to January 1, 2007, for anyone who has made application. The City is also going to establish a fund for all rebates to be paid through the City and they will then bill the school district, college and county for their portion(s). This way, the applicant won’t have to go to up to four different places twice a year. She said that if the commissioners have more questions, Dale Bunn is available. Though she doesn’t want to influence their decision, she thinks it’s a great program.

Hubert Thomas met with commissioners. He reported some vandalism at Cedar Creek Lake and discussed a proposed watershed dam.

David Neville met with commissioners to request a new refrigerator in the basement. Though it still works as a refrigerator, there is no freezer space. It is used by County personnel for storage of groceries, lunch and food for dinners as well as storage of perishables for the Health Department when the office is closed and deliveries come. It was suggested that it might be good for one of the shelter houses at Elm Creek Lake. He got prices on an 18 cu ft refrigerator/freezer from Darling Appliance and Heidrick’s True Value. They were:

Darling Whirlpool $619.00 (no delivery)
True Value Frigidaire $550.00 (delivered)

Commissioners approved the purchase from True Value and asked David to see if they will deliver the old one to Elm Creek. After checking, David Neville reported that True Value agreed to deliver the old refrigerator to Elm Creek Lake.

Mr. Neville said that Craig McKenney patched the coating on the south steps last week. He suggested we install a handrail on the steps in the center to help with balance since it is so wide. After discussion, commissioners decided to check with Clyde Killion to see if one of the road guys could weld something together. They will get in touch with David.

Mr. Neville also had people up this week about waterproofing the courthouse. It was mentioned that the stone steps have bowed eastward over time. If they aren’t re-set, the repairs to the porch won’t help. He said that he got three estimates.

He also discussed getting prices for the sheetrock replacement in the basement and alternative flooring for the basement offices.

Commissioners briefly viewed the courthouse steps.

Lee Davis presented chemical quotes at 11:00 am. They were:

Vegetation Mgmt	256 oz. Escort	$8.90/oz
Van Diest	256 oz. Escort	$8.86/oz
UAP	256 oz. Escort	$8.85/oz


Mr. Davis explained that UAP hadn’t sent a quote in and gave a quote to Lee over the phone. As they hadn’t complied with the terms of the quoting process, Terry Graham made a motion to accept the quote from Van Diest. Bill Brittain seconded the motion and all voted in favor.

Mr. Davis then presented phone quotes for Glyphosate (generic Round-up)

UAP	Glyphosate 100 gal.	$14.80/gal.
Vegetation Mgmt	Glyphosate 100 gal.	$15.50/gal.
Van Diest	Glyphosate 100 gal.	$14.38/gal.


Bill Brittain made a motion to accept the quote from Van Diest. Terry Graham seconded the motion and all voted in favor.

Bill Brittain stated that there’s a meeting in Topeka on August 28, 2007, about Fort Scott Lake. He said that he, Tom McNeil and Curt Shankel will attend.

Gary Houston reported that he may not be here on Monday.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 11:40 am.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Terry Graham, Chairman
(ss) Bill Brittain, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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August 20, 2007 Monday 9:00 am

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

Clyde Killion gave a road report.

Earl Brown met with commissioners. He said he’s never been approached by the Hiattville Fire Station to settle the land dispute between them. He would like to know what’s going on with that. The commissioners stated they thought it was being worked out between them, as was implied after the last meeting with all parties. He asked if Delwin Mumbower, Coordinator of the Fire District, should be involved in this. Commissioners asked Delwin, who was in the courthouse, to come up to discuss it. He is somewhat aware of the situation but will do his best to help settle it.

Laura Hyer informed commissioners that there will be a drill of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) this October.

Nina Yakel met with commissioners to check on the trash situation. Bill Brittain gave her the contact information for Dual Sanitation. It’s the only company which will pick up on a weekly basis for us.

Laura Hyer and Terri Johnson met with commissioners to ask who the County Public Health Officer is. Commissioners believe it is Diane Bertone. The problem we may face is that she has said she won’t come here in an outbreak, as she has her own county to take care of. Upon reading the statutes related to the situation, it appears that the SEK Multi-County Health Board would have to name someone locally to help in those instances. Dr. Spencer is interested, according to Laura Hyer. Terri Johnson said we need to make sure that whoever is chosen has the legal authority to act in a crisis. She will look into it further.

George Erny met with commissioners to request that a little bit of asphalt be put on an area where rock gets washed out. Terry Graham said he’d see what they can do. Mr. Erny also said there are several trees on county property blocking his view from his driveway. He asked for permission to saw them down. Commissioners gave him permission to remove the trees and asked him to coordinate with Clyde to get them picked up. There was also discussion of putting up a guardrail for safety but the commissioners fear there is no room to set posts for one.

Laura Hyer again met with commissioners, this time about Flood Plain Management. She said we need to send out a press release about it. She will coordinate with Joanne Long for that.

Jim Harris, Berry Tractor, met with commissioners to see if they need any equipment. No action.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at 11:30 am.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Terry Graham, Chairman
(ss) Bill Brittain, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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August 24, 2007 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with Terry Graham and Bill Brittain present. Joanne Long was also present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Gary Houston arrived at 9:37 am.

Clyde Killion presented culvert bids to be opened. Dennis Brown, Welborn Sales, was present. Two were received. They were:

Welborn Sales, Inc.	4-48” Arch 14 gauge galv. X 24’	$2,870.40
	4-36” Arch 14 gauge galv. X 24’	$2,107.20
	4-30” Arch 14 gauge galv. X 24’	$1,756.80
	Total:	$6,734.40
Judy’s Iron & Metal, Inc.	4-48” Arch 14 gauge galv. X 24’	$2,985.60
	4-36” Arch 16 gauge galv. X 24’	$1,819.20
	4-30” Arch 16 gauge galv. X 24’	$1,531.20
	Total:	$6,336.00
Judy’s Iron & Metal, Inc.	4-48” Arch 12 gauge galv. X 24’	$4,188.48
	4-36” Arch 14 gauge galv. X 24’	$2,239.68
	4-30” Arch 14 gauge galv. X 24’	$1,874.88
	Total:	$8,303.04


Clyde informed the commissioners that the 16 gauge is flimsier than the 14 gauge, and we want to use 14 gauge, at least. Bill Brittain made a motion to accept the bid from Welborn Sales, for $6,734.40. Terry Graham seconded the motion and both voted in favor.

Mr. Killion mentioned he viewed a 1993 or 1994 Ford New Holland Tractor this week. It was very nice and he thinks it’s a good deal at $13,500. Commissioners will discuss it more when Gary Houston gets here.

Todd McDermed, Supervisor of Customer Service, US Post Office, met with commissioners to discuss a problem some rural postal carriers are having delivering mail over large windrows in some areas of the County. He asked if the County has a policy about clearing them or making them low enough for cars to get over. The commissioners said there is no formal policy; it’s just been a courtesy. They will discuss implementing a policy when Gary Houston arrives. Mr. McDermed mentioned how appreciative it was to the postal carriers this winter that the drives and mailbox accesses were cleared after the heavy snows.

Lee Davis left prices for replacing two light truck tires on his County vehicle. He had several quotes. They were:

Ron Eldridge	Hancook LT 235/85/16 All-weather	$117.50
	Hercules (better tire)	$135.00
Durossette’s	KUMO LT 235/85/16 All-weather	$112.00
5-Corner’s	Dayton LT 235/85/16 All-weather	$114.08
	Firestone	$151.00
Family Auto	Falcon	$ 96.95
	KUMO LT 235/85/16 All-weather	$115.53


Terry Graham made a motion to purchase the Falcons from Family Auto, as they are the least expensive. Bill Brittain seconded and both voted in favor. Mr. Davis later called in to report he had a blowout and asked to replace all the tires. Commissioners approved the request.

David Neville met with commissioners. He told the commissioners and Clyde that the road guys did a good job on the south railing and said thank you. He is here today with samples of basement flooring possibilities. He has samples from Ruddick’s for a recycled rubber snap together floor and from Robbins Sports Floors in Pittsburg for another synthetic rubber that is glued down. He said the prices are very close but Ruddick’s is slightly lower. The option from Pittsburg has colors while Ruddick’s is black with flecks. No action at this time.

Gary Houston arrived at 9:37 am after attending to cemetery business.

Commissioners discussed the proposed policy for clearing or flattening windrows around mailboxes and driveways. Gary Houston agreed with the policy. Therefore, Terry Graham made a motion to declare it Bourbon County policy, effective immediately, that road grader operators clear or flatten windrows around mailboxes and driveways. Bill Brittain seconded the motion and all voted in favor. Joanne Long wrote up the policy and had the commissioners sign it. It will be distributed to our grader men and a copy sent to Mr. McDermed at the Post Office.

Gene Cowan met with commissioners to discuss Tom McNeil. He asked what kind of hours is he working and said that he has followed him on more than one occasion just driving around. He also said that Mr. McNeil spent 35 minutes at Robert Findley’s one morning and didn’t do any work. When asked why he would follow him around, Mr. Cowan said he’s concerned with what he’s doing because his taxpayer dollars are involved. He also discussed over $500 in two months for gas for the Jeep. There was also discussion of him leaving early. Joanne Long asked how he is paid for 8 hour days when the rest of the courthouse is on 7 hour days. Commissioners said they need to do a little research.

Clifton Beth asked for School Bus Stop signs at his place on Old 69. Commissioners explained that we can’t put Children Playing signs up for liability reasons but will look for School Bus Stop signs.

Larry Davenport spoke with commissioners about a new subdivision he is looking to build east of Lake Fort Scott. He’s working with the City and the planning commission because it’s within the 3-mile limit for plat size. He’s here today to ask for access to the land from the east Lake Road. The County believes the City owns the area around the lake that is not owned by an individual. He also asked about hooking on to the proposed sewer at the Lake. Bill Brittain said he will check into that and the commissioners advised Mr. Davenport to have the Appraiser’s Office research the landowner in question.

Charles Cress met with commissioners. They’ve cut the lock and damaged his gate on his property near a broken bridge at Poplar and 225^th Street. He brought pictures to show the commissioners. Mr. Cress indicated he filed a sheriff’s report. Harold Coleman was present for the discussion. The commissioners can’t understand who would have done this but assured Mr. Cress that they will put it all back.

Tom McNeil met with commissioners to answer the claims laid against him by Gene Cowan earlier. He said he knew he was being followed and led him on a wild goose chase. He presented a list he’s been keeping since January of what he’s been doing and where. He said the miles add up. He also stated that he was at Findley’s on a sanitation issue. He doesn’t know why he’s being followed and said he believes that’s illegal stalking. Joanne Long said that because it’s a public job paid with tax dollars, she doesn’t believe it can be considered stalking. Ms. Long asked Mr. McNeil how he works an 8 hour day, sometimes with overtime, when he is at the courthouse where we have 7 hour days and he often leaves work in his own vehicle before 4:30 pm. He said he doesn’t take a lunch hour and he’s been coming in before 8:30 am because that’s what the contractors are working.

Darrell Bloomfield met with commissioners about the storm shelter/community building in Garland. He’s asking for help from the County on excavating for it. He also asked if the County will help with the grant. There’s a hearing scheduled next month for the center. Commissioners said they’ll help with what they can. We need to consult with the county attorney about an alleyway and whether or not it’s been vacated near the site. Mr. Bloomfield asked if there are any paving or curbing requirements for the County. There are none for the County but the building will need to comply with all ADA requirements. Mr. Bloomfield says they have canvassed the whole township and have four people left. Commissioners said to keep up the good work.

Bill Brittain left at 10:50 am for doctor’s appointment.

Harold Coleman met with commissioners to discuss courthouse security. Terry Graham made a motion to go into executive session, for a period of 10 minutes, under the Security exception to the Kansas Open Meetings Act. Gary Houston seconded the motion and both voted in favor. Those present for the session were Terry Graham, Gary Houston, Harold Coleman and Joanne Long. The session began at 10:53 am and ended at 11:03 am with no action.

Charlie Blevins met with commissioners. The flood washed out some road near his trailer and the road crew filled in back in with road rock. However, there’s too much rock and he can’t open and shut the gate. He’s made a few requests for it to be fixed but nothing has happened yet. Commissioners will get Clyde to hurry up on it.

Joanne Long asked commissioners for an executive session to discuss non-elected personnel. Terry Graham made a motion to go into executive session, for a period of five minutes, under the Non-Elected Personnel exception to the Kansas Open Meetings Act. Gary Houston seconded and both voted in favor. Those present for the session were Terry Graham, Gary Houston and Joanne Long. The session began at 11:20 am and ended at 11:25 am with no action.

Bill Brittain returned at 11:26 am.

Joanne Long asked about health insurance renewals. Do we want to see what the renewal is or just open it up for bid. Commissioners said to open it up for bid.

Susan Quick updated commissioners the tax sale. It’s on track for the end of September. She also said the City of Bronson is still asking for its special assessment from an old tax sale. She is having Dan Meara investigate it.

After routine business, the meeting adjourned at noon.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

(ss) Terry Graham, Chairman
(ss) Bill Brittain, Commissioner
ATTEST:
(ss) Joanne Long, County Clerk

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August 27, 2007 Monday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners and the county clerk present. Minutes of the previous meeting were read and corrected.

Charlie Blevins thanked commissioners. He said that the road men were there to fix his problem with excess gravel in 15 minutes.

Clyde Killion gave a road report.

Doylene Kennedy reported on flood expenses for the County. There has been $132,538.65 submitted so far. FEMA will reimburse us $99,406.23 and the State of Kansas may reimburse us $19,880.79. She said there were some comments about their overtime from other departments but she thinks it was worth it. All that is left is debris removal and repairs to some bridges. She is unsure whether the State will reimburse 15% as it said it would, however Bill Brittain stated that the Governor’s cabinet was at the meeting in Chanute he attended and they assured those in attendance that the State would commit to the 15% reimbursement. Commissioners thanked Ms. Kennedy for the great work.

Ms. Kennedy also reported that the Jeep broke down Friday. Tom McNeil is taking it to be repaired and then to his house to clean up in preparation of the Topeka trip on Tuesday. While the Jeep is out of commission, he will be using his truck for inspections today.

Gene Todd asked commissioners about requirements for an Amish cemetery. He has a statute that Charles Gentry thinks covers it but commissioners would like Terri Johnson to research it.

Gene Parker asked the commissioners for mowing in Garland. He said only one pass has been made this year. Commissioners confirmed that’s all that has been made all over the County. Mr. Parker is concerned about visibility for vehicles with overgrowth. The commissioners will call Clyde about it.

Laura Hyer informed commissioners that the FEMA individual assistance application period closes September 4^th. She said FEMA has paid $86,943 to individuals in our County to date.

There was discussion of the format of the minutes. It was explained that state law requires the name of those persons in attendance and official actions to be in the minutes, but anything else is determined by form by the commissioners. Joanne Long said she has always typed them and the commissioners have approved them with some details of conversations had even though no action may be taken. She explained that it helps when going back to look something up or for information leading up to action. Otherwise, there would be no mention of anything until the county decides to spend money on something and the people would not know what, if any discussion was had about it. Commissioners asked Ms. Long to get Terri Johnson’s opinion.

Joanne Long informed commissioners that it is law as well as in our employee handbook that courthouse employees have an unpaid lunch hour. She said the County doesn’t want to start something that would enable all employees to subvert that. As the commissioners set policy for the entire County, we want everyone playing by the same rules or we set ourselves up for liability issues. No action.

Herschel George, Watershed Specialist with K-State Research and Extension, Doug Blex and Delta George met with commissioners. They would like the commissioners to come with them to view Hell’s Bend Bridge—a site for a potential stream stabilization WRAPS grant from the State of Kansas. The commissioners, Clyde Killion and the group left at 11:05 am to view the site.

Meeting adjourned at 11:05 am.

THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS

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

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August 31, 2007 Friday 9:00 am

The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all commissioners and Shirley Goltra present.

Clyde Killion gave a road report. He stated that the chip and seal program is going well.

Bills and payroll for the period were reviewed and approved.

Rayma Silvers, reporter with the Fort Scott Tribune, was present.

Laura Hyer, Terri Johnson, Judge Mark Ward and Chief Judge Richard Smith met with commissioners to discuss courthouse security. Terry Graham made a motion to go into executive session, for a period of 30 minutes, under the Security Exception to the Kansas Open Meetings Act. Bill Brittain seconded the motion and all voted in favor. Those present for the session were the commissioners, Shirley Goltra, Richard Smith, Mark Ward, Terri Johnson and Laura Hyer. The session began at 9:35 am and ended at 10:05 am with no action.

Once in regular session, the commissioners directed Laura Hyer to form a committee of department heads or their designees to discuss the needs and desires of the County for security and the costs involved. Judge Ward said he will be the court system volunteer.

Terry Sercer discussed the 2006 audit with commissioners.

Susan Quick updated commissioners on the tax sale. She said there is someone on the tax sale who would like to donate their property to the County. Commissioners want the property to be sold at tax sale.

Terri Johnson met with commissioners. She requested an executive session to discuss matters relating to non-elected personnel. Bill Br