Water, sewer rates to increase by 10 percent

Water and sewer rates were not the only items on the agenda as the commission also discussed the recent deterioration of the street and storm drainage near the intersection of Eighth and Main streets. According to Fort Scott Director of Public Works Eric Bailey, a two-foot sink hole was found in Main Street on Nov. 20 which led to the discovery that the street has sunk down about one-inch as well as the collapse of the storm drainage tunnel. Bailey said there is no estimate yet on the cost of the repairs, but the city is currently looking into getting funding for the repairs through FEMA in relation to the May 8 storms.

"We know we're going to have to dig and do something," he said.

Also returning on the agenda was the discussion regarding the possibility of shortening the school zone on Margrave Street. The idea was brought to the commission a couple weeks ago by citizen Kevin Allen who suggested the school zone is excessively long. Fort Scott Chief of Police Ron Puterbaugh said he and Fort Scott Police Lt. Travis Shelton observed the foot traffic in that are as well as the vehicle traffic on Nov. 19 and 20. The noted that nearly 30 children crossed Margrave Street during those two days and more than 400 vehicles. Puterbaugh recommends the zone remain as it is.

"Just the (vehicle) traffic volume alone should make us keep that school zone, in my opinion," Puterbaugh said.

Fort Scott City Manager Joe Turner informed the commission that surveys were sent to the Fort Scott Middle School and Fort Scott Christian Heights principals asking their opinion on the change. He said the principal of FSCH is no opposed, however the principal of FSMS is opposed.

Other business conducted during the meeting include:

* Approved (4-1) to give city employees Good Friday off as a paid holiday for 2010 only as a result of a freeze on pay increases.

* Recognized Aaron B. Houser for his achievement of the Eagle Scout rank in the Boy Scouts of America.