The Bourbon County Commission on Monday formally committed to moving district court operations to 108 W. Second St. while the courthouse elevator is replaced, authorized publication of a Sept. 14 budget hearing notice at a not-to-exceed rate of 56.669 mills, and voted to list the county’s old landfill parcel for sale pending groundwater testing.

All five commissioners attended the roughly 74-minute meeting, with Chairman Gregg Motley presiding.

Aug. 17 minutes tabled over attribution errors

The commission approved the Aug. 10 minutes after the full dialogue from County Clerk Susan Walker’s resignation announcement was added at Commissioner Samuel Tran’s request. The Aug. 17 minutes were tabled: Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee handed a marked-up draft to interim clerk Michael Hoyt, saying it “needs extensive revision,” including corrections to who said what and to the vice-chairman vote (video, 5:00). Accounts payable of $304,072.99 was approved.

Court relocation: Beerbower named point person, floors to close Oct. 21

Much of the meeting dealt with the courthouse elevator project and the district court’s temporary quarters. On Motley’s motion, the commission named Commissioner David Beerbower the project’s point person (video, 15:55); Beerbower said he is preparing an RFP for local contractors on wall removal, and walked through a checklist covering courtroom technology, security cameras, signage, cleaning and furniture, with costs expected to come from jail sales tax funds. He will also bring a proposed budget for the move to the next meeting.

The commission then formally voted to use 108 W. Second to house the district court while the elevator is out of service (video, 19:18), to close the courthouse’s second and third floors to the public, staff access only, from Oct. 21 through Nov. 20 (video, 19:57), and to authorize a maintenance access card for the elevator repair crew (video, 20:37). Tran pressed on whether the court pays rent or holds an occupancy agreement for the space; the only agreement confirmed was an occupancy agreement with the sixth judicial district office.

Elections: $4,200 for ballot creation, early voting shortened

Interim clerk Michael Hoyt told the commission the county’s ballot must reach the Secretary of State by a Sept. 14 deadline (video, 21:29). He asked for authorization to spend about $4,200 with Clear Ballot for ballot creation; after budget consultant Matt Lawn confirmed the money is already in the election training line, Hoyt proceeded without a new appropriation (video, 24:32).

Hoyt also said early voting will be abbreviated to the Saturday through Monday before the November election, saying the county spent about $1,200 keeping a full week open last cycle for light use (video, 25:53). “I think if we condense it, have two Saturdays available, I think it’s a better use of our money,” he explained.

Public works: four miles of asphalt down, Yale Road next at $150,000 for one mile

Public Works Director Kenny Allen reported about four miles of asphalt completed this year on Maple Road, 215th/Osage and Hackberry, with crews prepping Yale Road to start Monday (video, 29:35). He estimated Yale at $150,000 or more for a mile of five-inch build: a three-inch base plus two-inch overlay (video, 40:07).

The commission authorized the chairman to sign a federal fund exchange request worth roughly $120,000 for hard-surface road work, with the state matching 90 cents and the federal program a dollar on the dollar (video, 35:23). Milburn-Kee pressed Allen for an asphalt pavement figure for this season, and asked that documents be emailed to commissioners in advance. His $231,265.62 hard-surface spending figure included all hard surface roads maintenance, mowing, and plowing. (video, 36:15).

Allen said mowing is limited to bus routes with only three bush hogs and one sidearm mower running. During public comment, Kyle Parks asked about unmowed Johnson grass along Highway 7 near Devon and on Range Road (video, 6:55).

Budget: hearing notice at 56.669 mills; FEMA offset floated

The commission authorized Matt Lawn with Baker Tilly to have the clerk’s office publish notice of the revenue neutral rate public hearing in the Saturday, Aug. 29 paper, for a hearing on Sept. 14 at a not-to-exceed 56.669 mills (video, 44:26). At Milburn-Kee’s request, Lawn walked through a scenario holding funds other than employee benefits to revenue neutral and shifting the difference to employee benefits or general fund reserves.

Milburn explained the reason for asking Lawn to do that exercise: “And a larger picture of that would be to keep everybody [county departments] exactly where they’re at, revenue neutral, but us take the assessed valuation increase of that two mill and put it in the reserves in the general fund is the overall picture that I had in my mind….I don’t have a problem increasing their budgets if they increase their own revenue outside of the mill, but I don’t want to give them the mill.”

Beerbower proposed using $605,000 in FEMA money held by Public Works to offset that department’s levy, which he said would allow the county to use that roughly 4.13 mills to increase the county’s cash reserves, improving the interest rates offered for big project bonds like the new radio system discussed in last week’s meeting (video, 56:51). Lawn will bring updated scenarios next Monday, as well as address about $36,000 in comprehensive plan startup costs and about $50,000 for tax foreclosure publishing.

Other business

The commission approved a cereal malt beverage application for a location at Soldier Road and 69 Highway. Hoyt noted that the deadline for cereal malt beverage applications is Sept. 15.

The commission voted to withdraw from the walk-in hunting contract on the old landfill parcel, noting the City of Fort Scott has opted out (video, 65:54), and then voted to list that parcel for sale contingent on groundwater testing and a restrictive covenant filed with the Register of Deeds (video, 68:30). A Verizon contract extension was pulled from the agenda after typos were found in the document.

Commissioner Comments

Commission Chairman Gregg Motley suggested that Bourbon County follow the pattern of other counties and cities and include all supporting documents as part of the meeting agenda in the future. He mentioned bids, contracts, resolutions, and the like. Motley said Stronghold, the county’s IT vendor, told him it has done more KORA fulfillments — records requests completed — for Bourbon County than for all the other government entities it works with combined, partly, he said, because those items aren’t available with the meeting agendas prior to meetings and must be requested for viewing after being submitted in the meetings.

Beerbower pointed out that it had been commission policy at one point to require supporting documentation for agenda items.

“It’s also fair to the public,” Motley said.

Related coverage: Agenda summary for the Aug. 24 meeting, County Clerk Susan Walker resigns, Walker files resignation letter with governor.

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Minutes – August 10 & August 17, 2026, 5:30 PM

Meeting Minutes – Aug 10 & Aug 17, 2026 (full PDF)

• August 10, 2026 Meeting
  • Citizens Attendance (Page 1)
  • Call to Order (Page 1)
  • Pledge of Allegiance (Page 1)
  • Prayer (Page 1)
  • Introductions (Page 1)
  • Approval of Agenda (Page 1)
  • VI. Approval of Minutes 08.03.26 (Page 1)
  • VII. Approval of Accounts Payable $323,572.46 (Pages 1–2)
  • Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(1) (Page 2)
  • Special Appearances
    • a. Walk-In Hunting – Philip Pavey (Page 2)
    • b. Old Landfill – Milburn (Page 2)
  • Public Comments (Page 2)
  • Department Updates
    • a. County Clerk (Pages 2–3)
    • b. EMS Director Update – Hulsey (Page 3)
    • c. KCJIS Compliance – Sheriff (Page 3)
    • d. Sheriff – KHP Truck Route (Page 3)
  • Budget Discussion – Matt Lawn (Page 3)
  • Executive Session to Discuss Non-Elected Personnel – Motley (Removed from agenda) (Page 3)
  • Old Business
    • a. Old Landfill – Milburn (addressed under Special Appearances) (Page 3)
    • b. Report on S&P Conference Call Including Ben Hart – Motley (Pages 3–4)
    • c. Letter of Resignation (Page 4)
    • d. Policy/Procedures Set Work Session – Beerbower (Page 4)
    • e. Landfill Backhoe – Tran (Page 4)
  • New Business
    • a. Court Space – Beerbower (Page 4)
    • b. Building Maintenance Supervision Discussion (Pages 4–5)
    • c. Commission & Board Assignment – J. Allen (Page 5)
    • d. HR Contract (Page 5)
    • e. Purchasing Policy (Page 5)
  • XV. Future Agenda Topics (Page 5)
  • XVI. Commission Comments / Adjournment (Page 5)
  • County Clerk Susan Walker – Resignation Statement (Appendix) (Pages 7–9)
• August 17, 2026 Meeting
  • I. Call to Order (Page 10)
  • II. Pledge of Allegiance (Page 10)
  • III. Prayer (Page 10)
  • IV. Introductions (Page 10)
  • V. Approval of Agenda (Pages 10–11)
  • VI. Approval of Minutes 08.10.26 (Tabled) (Page 11)
  • VII. Approval of Accounts Payable 08.14.26 $129,800.18 (Page 11)
  • VIII. July Financials (Page 11)
  • IX. Public Comments (Pages 11–12)
  • X. Budget Discussion – Matt Lawn (Page 12)
  • XI. Department Updates
    • a. EMS Update – Hulsey (Page 13)
    • b. TUSA – Sheriff (Page 13)
    • c. KHP Truck Route – Sheriff (Page 14)
    • d. Public Works Director Update (Page 14)
    • e. Deputy Clerk Update (Pages 14–15)
  • XII. Old Business
    • a. Allocation of Space (Tabled) (Page 15)
    • b. Policy & Procedure Discussion – Beerbower (Tabled to September) (Page 15)
    • c. HR Contract Discussion (Page 15)
    • d. Speed Limit Discussion – Sheriff (Addressed under XI.c) (Page 15)
  • XIII. New Business
    • a. Vice Chairman Resignation / Leadership Election (Pages 15–16)
    • b. Election Results – Resolution 27-26 (Page 16)
    • c. SEKRPC Update – Motley (Tabled) (Page 16)
    • d. Appraiser Candidates – Beerbower (Tabled) (Page 16)
  • XIV. Future Agenda Topics (Page 17)
  • XV. Commission Comments (No comments) (Page 17)
  • XVI. Adjournment (Page 17)

Detailed Minutes Summary

August 10, 2026 Meeting Minutes

1. Call to Order, Attendance & Introductions (Page 1)

The Bourbon County Commission Meeting was called to order on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 5:30 PM in Fort Scott, KS.

• Citizens Attendance: Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, Teri Hulsey, Jason Silver, Mike Wunderly, Tim Emerson, Marlon Merida, Michael Hoyt, Mike Hueston, Nick Graham, Amber Page, Joan Page, Jason Gorman, Trey Sharp, Bill Martin, Pam Cowan, Phil Pavey, Pete Owenby, Matt Lawn, Justin Harvit (KDWP), James Crux, Clayton Miller, Diane Ballou. (Page 1)
• Commissioners Present: Chairman Samuel Tran (District 1), Commissioner David Beerbower (District 2), Commissioner Joe Allen (District 3), Commissioner Gregg Motley (District 4), Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee (District 5). County Clerk Susan Walker and Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt also present. (Page 1)
• Prayer: Invocation led by Commissioner Gregg Motley. (Page 1)

2. Approval of Agenda (Page 1)

• The agenda was amended: Old Landfill item moved to Special Appearances (VII.b); Executive Session (KSA 75-4319(b)(1)) added between items VII and VIII; item XII (Executive Session – Non-elected Personnel) removed; new business items added for HR Contract (XIV.d) and Purchasing Policy (XIV.e).
• Motion to approve as amended: Chairman Tran / seconded by Commissioner Beerbower. Carried unanimously. (Page 1)

3. Approval of Minutes 08.03.26 (Page 1)

• Motion to approve August 3, 2026 minutes: Commissioner Beerbower / seconded by Commissioner Motley. Carried unanimously.

4. Approval of Accounts Payable $323,572.46 (Pages 1–2)

• Motion to approve accounts payable in the amount of $323,572.46: Chairman Tran / seconded by Commissioner Allen. Carried unanimously. (Page 2)

5. Executive Session – KSA 75-4319(b)(1) (Page 2)

• Motion to convene into executive session for 15 minutes to discuss personal matters of individual non-elected personnel: Commissioner Tran / seconded by Commissioner Milburn-Kee. Participants included the five commissioners, Executive Assistant Laura Krom, and Dr. Cohen by phone (to discuss garnishments/child support). Return to regular session at 5:53 PM. Carried unanimously.
• Motion to return to regular session without action: Chairman Tran / seconded by Commissioner Motley. Carried unanimously.

6. Special Appearances (Page 2)

• a. Walk-In Hunting – Philip Pavey: Cemetery President Philip Pavey raised concerns about the recently approved walk-in hunting program on county-owned property adjacent to Oak Grove Cemetery. Commissioner Milburn-Kee presented a letter from neighboring landowners Richard and Alyssa Cromemeyer citing trespassing concerns, safety issues, lack of fencing, and property adjacency. Justin Harvit of Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks explained the program is a one-year agreement focused on archery-based and scatter shots in the southern timbered section. He noted the hunting boundary had been walked and posted, and that the incoming Bourbon County game warden would be briefed. The Commission acknowledged the concerns and no action was taken to rescind the prior approval. (Page 2)
• b. Old Landfill – Milburn: Commissioner Milburn-Kee raised the county’s outstanding obligations related to the closed landfill — specifically groundwater testing (due to be completed in 2020) and deed restrictions/restrictive covenants required by KDHE. Motion to authorize Commissioner Milburn-Kee to draft a proposal directing Public Works to coordinate groundwater testing with KDHE oversight and update deed covenants for the closed landfill property: Commissioner Beerbower / seconded by Commissioner Milburn-Kee. Carried unanimously. (Page 2)

7. Public Comments (Page 2)

• No public comment cards were submitted.

8. Department Updates (Pages 2–3)

• a. County Clerk – Susan Walker: County Clerk Susan Walker delivered a report on the recent primary election, noting all poll workers completed two hours of training and new incident report procedures were implemented. Four incident reports were filed; three involved incorrect ballot issuance or poll pad discrepancies. She cited outdated equipment as a contributing factor and requested updated poll pads. Accuracy was reported at 99.999%. (Pages 2–3)
  • Ms. Walker raised concerns regarding recurring payroll reconciliation issues over the past eight months, including KPERS variances and unresolved benefit billing discrepancies, and recommended Baker Tilly handle all general ledger payroll entries going forward. (Page 3)
  • Ms. Walker announced her resignation effective August 31, 2026, citing the deteriorating work environment. She addressed Chairman Tran directly, stating his conduct had been disrespectful and unprofessional. She noted her office is in balance with the Treasurer and that Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt would assume responsibilities for the remainder of the meeting and pending the Republican Party’s election of a new clerk. (Page 3)
  • County Clerk Walker’s full written resignation/departure statement is included as an appendix to the minutes. (Pages 7–9)
• b. EMS Director Update – Hulsey: EMS Director Teri Hulsey presented a comparative rate analysis of Bourbon County EMS billing rates against Allen, Anderson, Crawford, and Neosho counties. The commission noted Anderson and Neosho operate as hospital-based services, accounting for their higher rates. Chairman Tran requested additional data including Medicare vs. private insurance billing breakdown, monthly collection amounts, percentage collected by billing company Omni, and man-hours associated with transfers — to be provided prior to the next meeting. (Page 3)
• c. KCJIS Compliance – Sheriff: Sheriff William Martin reported that 12 sheriff’s department computers must be updated to Windows 11 to comply with Kansas KCJIS requirements, with a compliance deadline approaching in early 2027. Two bids were obtained: Stronghold at $14,465.52 and Advantage Computer of Iola at $14,544. The Sheriff requested authorization to use jail inmate revenue funds for the purchase. Motion to authorize: Milburn-Kee / seconded by Allen. Carried unanimously. (Page 3)
• d. Sheriff – KHP Truck Route: The KHP trooper scheduled to present was unable to attend. Item deferred to the next regular meeting. (Page 3)

9. Budget Discussion – Matt Lawn (Page 3)

• Budget Consultant Matt Lawn reported the budget process is approximately 96–97% complete. He presented a proposed schedule for finalizing the budget prior to the mandatory public hearing publication deadline of September 4, 2026, with the hearing scheduled for September 14. Schedule established:
  • Regular meeting August 17 — full budget presentation
  • Work session August 19 (or 20 if necessary)
  • Regular meeting August 24 — targeting final agreement
  • Fallback August 31 if needed
• Discussion also addressed a proposed additional EMS paramedic position. Lawn estimated an additional benefit cost of approximately $9,600 for the remainder of FY2026 and $33,500 annually. Decision deferred pending a full breakdown of the employee benefits fund. Chairman Tran requested detailed billing and overtime data from Director Hulsey before the next meeting.

10. Old Business (Pages 3–4)

• a. Old Landfill – Milburn: Addressed under Special Appearances. (Page 3)
• b. S&P Conference Call – Motley: Commissioner Motley reported on a conference call with S&P Global Ratings. The last formal rating review was in 2019, when reserves were approximately 63% of expenses. The current review was triggered by low DARF reserves and a less-than-clean audit. Financial advisor Ben Hart clarified the audit issue was procedural rather than financial. S&P indicated a preference for hard-dollar reserve targets and a long-term capital replacement plan. A rating decision was expected within approximately one and a half weeks. Commissioner Motley expressed concern that a downgrade is possible. Chairman Tran noted the county lacks life cycle plans, preventive maintenance plans, and purchasing plans. (Pages 3–4)
• c. Letter of Resignation: The Commission acknowledged the resignation of the County Appraiser. Commissioner Milburn-Kee was requested to contact Linn County and Allen County to explore interim or shared appraiser arrangements. (Page 4)
• d. Policy/Procedures Set Work Session – Beerbower: Commissioner Beerbower distributed a draft resolution establishing a framework for adopting and updating county policies and procedures. Discussion tabled until September following completion of the budget process. (Page 4)
• e. Landfill Backhoe – Tran: Chairman Tran raised concerns about the previously approved purchase of a new Caterpillar backhoe for the Transfer Station at approximately $179,000. Transfer Station Supervisor Diana Ballou confirmed she needs reliable equipment. Commissioner Beerbower moved to authorize the chairman to sign the contract for the new backhoe — motion died for lack of a second. Motion to recall the prior approval of the new Caterpillar backhoe purchase: Chairman Tran / seconded by Milburn-Kee. Carried 4–1, Commissioner Beerbower opposed. The Commission requested Public Works Director Kenny Allen to independently seek alternative backhoe options, with Chairman Tran indicating a certified pre-owned Caterpillar in the $120,000 range as an appropriate target. (Page 4)

11. New Business (Pages 4–5)

• a. Court Space – Beerbower: Commissioner Beerbower presented a formal statement outlining concern that the upcoming elevator replacement project — expected to take 30+ days beginning in October — would render the courthouse inaccessible for disabled individuals and create security challenges for prisoner transport. Two potential relocation sites were toured. Motion to schedule a work session to discuss requirements, logistics, costs, and operational needs for temporarily relocating court operations during the elevator replacement: Commissioner Beerbower / seconded by Commissioner Motley. Carried unanimously. Work session scheduled for Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 5:30 PM. (Page 4)
• b. Building Maintenance Supervision Discussion: Commissioner Beerbower motioned to establish a full-time Courthouse Maintenance Supervisor position reporting directly to the Board of County Commissioners, at entry-level pay with a subsequent pay adjustment upon satisfactory performance. Seconded by Motley. After extensive discussion, Commissioner Beerbower withdrew the motion. The item may be resubmitted in a revised form. (Pages 4–5)
• c. Commission & Board Assignment – J. Allen: Commissioner Allen raised the question of which commissioners are attending their assigned boards and reporting back to the full commission. Commissioners and citizens assigned confirmed their respective assignments and attendance. No formal action was taken. (Page 5)
• d. HR Contract: Chairman Tran summarized a contract amendment with Dr. Cohen for HR consulting services — a 12-month extension (August 11, 2026 – August 10, 2027) at $4,343 per month ($51,600 annually), covering HR leadership, policy manual updates, performance appraisal administration, and whistleblower hotline operations. Motion to authorize the chairman to sign the HR consulting contract with Dr. Cohen: Chairman Tran / seconded by Milburn-Kee. Motion failed, with all voting not; item deferred to the next regular meeting. (Page 5)
• e. Purchasing Policy: Commissioner Allen distributed information regarding a resolution requirement for lease purchases exceeding $100,000 spanning more than one fiscal year, as confirmed by the county’s financial advisor. Item provided for informational review and will be brought back at a future meeting. (Page 5)

12. Future Agenda Topics & Adjournment – Aug 10, 2026 (Page 5)

• Items deferred to next regular meeting (August 17, 2026): KHP Truck Route presentation (Sheriff), HR contract, EMS overtime analysis, old landfill water testing and deed covenant proposal, full budget presentation by Matt Lawn. Budget work session tentatively scheduled for August 19.
• Commissioner Allen thanked attendees for staying. Commissioner Milburn-Kee apologized to Chairman Tran for speaking out of turn.
• Motion to adjourn: Chairman Tran / seconded by Allen at 9:35 PM. Carried unanimously.

13. County Clerk Susan Walker – Full Resignation Statement (Appendix) (Pages 7–9)

County Clerk Susan Walker’s full written statement, delivered at the August 10, 2026 meeting, was included as an appendix to the minutes per Chairman Tran’s request at the August 17 meeting. Key sections:

• Opening: Walker announced her resignation effective August 31, 2026, after 24 years of service, citing a deteriorating work environment and her decision to accept another position. (Page 7)
• Accomplishments: Walker cited the Riverfront Park visioning process, world record events, advocacy for a new aquatic center, support for the USD 234 school bond referendum, and securing a new City Hall facility. She noted that financial deficiencies that had plagued Bourbon County for years — leading to repeated failed audits — were corrected under her tenure, with clean audits since 2022, though a 2025 violation occurred when the commission failed to pass an amended budget. (Pages 7–8)
• Candid Word About the Future: Walker stated that the future of Bourbon County rests in the hands of the current commission and warned that without better fiscal decisions, the county will face serious trouble. She directly addressed Chairman Tran, stating his behavior toward her had been disrespectful, and that he made sexist comments and underhanded public statements designed to imply criminal conduct. She stated her office is in balance with the Treasurer. (Page 8)
• Closing: Walker stated her staff would be transferring to another elected official’s office. She challenged critics to volunteer at the next general election. She thanked supporters and noted Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt would fill the office until the Republican Party appoints a new County Clerk. (Page 9)

August 17, 2026 Meeting Minutes

14. Call to Order, Attendance & Introductions (Page 10)

• Citizens Attendance: Anne Dare, Bonnie Smith, Beverly Simpson, Clayton Watson, Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, Jean Tucker, Don Tucker, Jason Silvers, Josh Jones, Marlon Merida, Phil Pavey, Nick Graham, Teri Hulsey. (Page 10)
• Commissioners Present: Chair Samuel Tran (District 1), Commissioner David Beerbower (District 2), Commissioner Joe Allen (District 3), Commissioner Gregg Motley (District 4), Commissioner Mika Milburn (District 5). Also present: County Counselor Bob Johnson, Deputy County Clerk Michael Hoyt. (Page 10)
• Prayer: Invocation led by Commissioner Gregg Motley. (Page 10)

15. Approval of Agenda (Pages 10–11)

• Agenda amended to add Public Works Director update (Item XI.d) and Deputy Clerk update (Item XI.e) under Department Updates. Motion to approve as amended: Chair Tran / seconded by Motley. Carried unanimously.

16. Approval of Minutes 08.10.26 (Page 11)

• Commissioner Tran requested that the full text of County Clerk Walker’s resignation statement be included in the minutes rather than an excerpt, noting that minutes are frequently referenced by the public. Approval of minutes was tabled pending a final corrected version.
• Motion to table approval of August 10 minutes: Chair Tran / seconded by Commissioner Milburn. Carried 4-1, Beerbower voting no.

17. Approval of Accounts Payable 08.14.26 – $129,800.18 (Page 11)

• Commissioner Milburn raised a question regarding an invoice from MSB Law for $3,485.21 described as “review, analysis of contracts, and opinion letter,” noting no opinion letter had been produced. County Counselor Johnson explained the review was stopped before completion and no formal opinion could be issued. Commissioner Motley indicated he would not vote against approval but noted his concerns.
• Motion to approve Accounts Payable for August 14, 2026 in the amount of $129,800.18: Commissioner Allen / seconded by Chair Tran. Carried 4-1, Milburn voting no.

18. July Financials (Page 11)

• July financials presented with no substantive discussion. Motion to approve: Commissioner Motley / seconded by Commissioner Allen. Carried unanimously.

19. Public Comments (Pages 11–12)

• Two public comment cards were submitted.
• Michael Hoyt reported on a Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging board meeting, noting the region received $1.7 million in funding to clear a wait list of over 300 individuals seeking meal delivery services. The SEK-AAA region received the highest allocation in Kansas across the nine-county service area. (Page 12)
• Mr. Jones (constituent of District 3) addressed the commission to express concern about the conduct of recent meetings and called upon Chair Tran to step down from the chairmanship. He also asked Commissioner Allen to consider making a motion to replace the chair if Chair Tran declined to do so voluntarily. (Page 12)

20. Budget Discussion – Matt Lawn (Page 12)

Budget Consultant Matt Lawn presented preliminary fund balance projections for the 2027 budget cycle across all operating funds.

• All funds currently show projected deficits under a flat mill levy scenario, typical at this stage; Lawn indicated these deficits are expected to narrow as decisions are finalized.
• The Employee Benefit Fund is the most significant area of concern, with a projected increase of approximately $244,000 driven by an estimated 18–20% health insurance premium increase from Blue Cross. Lawn requested a copy of the current Blue Cross billing to refine projections.
• Current county contribution structure: $1,700/month per employee for employee-plus plans; $925/month for employee-only coverage.
• Commissioner Beerbower raised the possibility of holding mill levy revenues at revenue neutral (R&R) and directing any incremental mill valuation increase toward the Employee Benefit Fund to help absorb the insurance cost increase. Lawn agreed to model this and other mill levy scenarios for presentation at the next meeting.
• Lawn noted the Landfill, as a fee-funded operation, does not currently carry its own employee benefit costs — those are subsidized by the mill levy — and suggested this should be analyzed for a potential fee adjustment.
• The Ambulance Fund was described as performing better than projected. Year-to-date collections are tracking ahead of the prior year; Lawn expressed confidence in the $900,000 revenue estimate for 2026, with a similar figure anticipated for 2027.
• The commission agreed to cancel the tentative Wednesday budget work session and consolidate all budget discussion into the next Monday regular meeting, with the full board present.

21. Department Updates (Pages 13–15)

• a. EMS Update – Hulsey: EMS Director Teri Hulsey reported that year-to-date receipts are $59,865.22 ahead of the same period last year, attributing this to the restoration of hospital transfer services following the return of a local emergency room. Hulsey presented three scheduling scenarios: 24/48, 48/96, and a hybrid model retaining part-time staff. She noted a 24/48 or 48/96 fixed schedule would eliminate the role of part-time personnel except for vacation and sick coverage. She requested authorization to hire a sixth full-time paramedic with over 30 years of experience, noting this would reduce overtime costs under any scheduling model. Motion to authorize the hire of an additional full-time paramedic: Commissioner Motley / seconded by Allen. Carried 4-1, Tran voting no. (Page 13)
• b. TUSA – Sheriff: Sheriff Martin introduced Dean Hart of TUSA Consulting, who presented findings from a comprehensive needs assessment of Bourbon County’s public safety radio infrastructure. Key findings:
  • The current DMR (Motorola Turbo) system lacks preventative maintenance, adequate site grounding, generator backup, and remote monitoring capability. One site was found to be completely off-air during the site visit, unbeknownst to anyone.
  • Coverage in the western portion of the county is significantly deficient for portable radio use.
  • Four conceptual solutions presented, ranging from a 3-site conventional system to a full P25 trunked system sharing the state core. The recommended solution (Solution 3) is a county-owned, 5-site P25 simulcast trunked system with dedicated microwave connectivity in a ring configuration.
  • Estimated infrastructure cost for the recommended solution: approximately $14.5 million, with an additional $2.5 million for subscriber radios (portables and mobiles) and approximately $6.3 million in maintenance over a 20-year period. Tower and shelter infrastructure expected to have a 50-year lifespan; technology, 15–20 years.
  • Payment would be structured across a 2–3 year build-out with milestone-based contract payments.
  • Sheriff Martin emphasized that the City of Fort Scott would be expected to share costs, particularly on the subscriber and maintenance side. TUSA would prepare the RFP and provide project management services in a subsequent phase.
  • No action was taken. The commission requested additional cost modeling, including a phased payment schedule and a proposal for TUSA’s project management fees.

  (Page 13)

• c. KHP Truck Route – Sheriff: Sheriff Martin introduced Trooper Boyles of the Kansas Highway Patrol to address complaints from residents on Birch Street regarding heavy truck traffic using county roads to bypass construction-related closures on K-7 Highway. Trooper Boyles noted that vehicles failing to follow KDOT detour instructions are in violation of state law, and KHP can conduct special enforcement in coordination with the Sheriff’s Office. Commissioner Allen noted that the affected intersection has since been closed as construction progressed toward Farlington, reducing diverted traffic. The commission discussed posting “No Through Trucks” signage and reducing speed limits but agreed that traffic count data should be gathered first before taking formal action. No action was taken. (Page 14)
• d. Public Works Director Update: Public Works Director Kenny Allen presented five quotes for a backhoe from Foley Equipment (CAT dealer):
  • A new machine qualifies for a Sourcewell governmental pre-bid discount of approximately $45,000, bringing the effective price to approximately $173,000–$179,000 with a comprehensive 60-month/5,000-hour bumper-to-bumper warranty including travel coverage.
  • Used units, while lower in listed price, do not qualify for the Sourcewell discount, may not be eligible for extended warranty, and would incur additional travel charges for service calls.
  • Director Allen expressed a preference for the new unit due to long-term warranty and maintenance benefits.
  • The commission agreed to review the quotes and take action at the next meeting.

  (Page 14)

• e. Deputy Clerk Update: Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt briefed the commission on several urgent operational needs arising from staff turnover in the Clerk’s office:
  • A general election ballot must be certified by the Secretary of State by September 14. Clear Ballot, the county’s established vendor, has been contacted and can accommodate the county’s schedule at a cost of approximately $8,400. The commission directed Hoyt to confirm with Budget Consultant Lawn whether this expense is covered in the current election budget.
  • An Accounts Payable clerk’s position is currently vacant and needs to be filled promptly.
  • Training and state certification on the ELVIS voter registration system and CIC financial system, among other immediate items, need to be addressed.
  • Chair Tran noted the county is in an uncertain position regarding the Clerk’s office leadership and asked Hoyt to contact the Secretary of State’s office regarding any available relief from upcoming election deadlines given the extenuating circumstances.

  (Pages 14–15)

22. Old Business (Page 15)

• a. Allocation of Space: Tabled.
• b. Policy & Procedure Discussion – Beerbower: Tabled to September.
• c. HR Contract Discussion: The commission discussed the status of the lapsed HR consulting contract, which has been continuing on a month-to-month basis. The current contractor has begun two active projects: a salary study and a compilation of position descriptions. Commissioners Allen and Beerbower indicated they had been contacted by a local individual interested in offering HR services and requested an opportunity for that person to make a presentation. The commission agreed to place the item on the first meeting agenda following Labor Day, allowing both the prospective local provider and the existing contractor to be considered. The current HR contractor will continue working and billing during this interim period.
• d. Speed Limit Discussion – Sheriff: Addressed under Item XI.c. No separate action taken.

23. New Business (Pages 15–16)

• a. Vice Chairman Resignation / Leadership Election: Commissioner Beerbower formally resigned his position as Vice Chairman of the Bourbon County Commission. He cited a belief that leadership positions should rotate to strengthen institutions and encourage broader participation, and called upon Chair Tran to voluntarily step down from the chairmanship. Chair Tran acknowledged the statement, agreed with its underlying principles, and declined to step down, stating he had made a commitment to serve and had approximately four months remaining in his term. (Page 15)
  • Motion to vacate the chairmanship and hold an election for both chair and vice chair, with the Deputy Clerk presiding: Commissioner Motley / seconded by Allen. Carried 3-2, Tran and Milburn voting no. (Page 16)
  • Election of Chair: Commissioner Allen nominated Commissioner Gregg Motley for Chair. Motion to elect Commissioner Gregg Motley as Chair: Commissioner Allen / seconded by Commissioner Beerbower. Carried 3-2, Tran and Milburn voted no. (Page 16)
  • Election of Vice Chair: Commissioner Motley nominated Commissioner Joe Allen for Vice Chair. Motion to elect Commissioner Joe Allen as Vice Chair: Commissioner Motley / seconded by Commissioner Beerbower. Carried 3-2, Tran and Milburn voted no. (Page 16)
  • Commissioner Tran congratulated the newly elected officers and expressed no hard feelings toward any member of the commission.
• b. Election Results – Resolution 27-26: Following the leadership election, the commission adopted Resolution 27-26 certifying the results of the primary election canvass conducted earlier in the day. Motion to approve Resolution 27-26: Commissioner Chairman Motley / seconded by Commissioner Vice-Chairman Allen. Carried with 4 Yes and 1 abstention (Commissioner Beerbower abstained, citing a desire to review the document). (Page 16)
• c. SEKRPC Update – Motley: Tabled. (Page 16)
• d. Appraiser Candidates – Beerbower: Tabled to the next available meeting. (Page 16)

24. Future Agenda Topics & Adjournment – Aug 17, 2026 (Page 17)

• The remainder of the agenda was tabled to the next available meeting.
• No Commission Comments.
• Motion to adjourn: Commissioner Motley / seconded by Commissioner Allen. Carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 9:06 PM.