Stories from Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Jo Ann Thomas, 83, of Fort Scott, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 27, 2025, surrounded by family. Jo Ann was born on May 4, 1942, in Fort Scott, Kan., to Oscar and Jimmie Sapp. As a young girl, a serious bicycle accident with her sister led her to Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott for recovery. It was there she first felt called to become a nurse – a decision that would define much of her life...

Mildred Lucille Kesler, 61, of Fort Scott, Kan., passed away July 31, 2025. Arrangements will be announced by the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

Stephanie H. Johnson, 82, of Fort Scott, Kan., passed away Aug. 5, 2025. Arrangements will be announced by the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

An update Monday on the Bourbon County public works department included the news that one director plans to remain in his position. Public Works Director Eric Bailey said Dustin Hall, assistant public works director, has rescinded his resignation which was made July 14, the same day Bailey announced his resignation...

Fort Scott City Commissioners plan to host a work session and be part of a town hall meeting concerning a sales tax ballot question. During Tuesday’s city commission meeting, City Manager Brad Matkin said he wanted to get input from commissioners on proceeding with a current half-cent sales tax proposal. Matkin said a work session and town hall would need to take place within “about 16 days.”...

Members of the Design Review Board recently weighed in on the topic of a miniature golf course in the downtown historic district, with most board members supporting the concept but not the initially proposed location. The board also discussed guidelines and projects within a historic district...