Obituary - Mary Diane Querry

Mary Diane (Ghent) Querry was born on May 15, 1944, in Brooklyn, NY, to John and Marianne (McMahon) Ghent. She passed away peacefully in the presence of family on May 29, 2024. She had just celebrated her 52nd 29th birthday.

Diane grew up in Kansas City, MO, attended grades 1-6 (passed over 7) & 8 at Visitation School and grades 9-11 at Saint Teresa Academy. She loved astronomy from a young age, often getting dropped off by her grandmother (Nana) to search for books at the UMKC Linda Hall Library. She painted nature subjects beginning when she was eight years old; winning a Hallmark Scholastic Art Award when in High School. After her family moved to Florida, she graduated from Seacrest High School in Delray Beach in 1961.

She earned an AB degree in Dental Hygiene from Palm Beach Community College in 1964. While working as a dental hygienist, Diane earned a BS degree in Physics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She married her husband of nearly 50 years, Marvin R. Querry, in 1974. Diane was awarded a National Science Foundation Traineeship and earned a MS degree in Physics in 1975 at the University of Kansas doing research on the Magnetosphere of Jupiter.

She went on to teach Physics and Astronomy at Longview Community College, then furthered her career at Black & Veatch Consulting Engineers, Kansas City. Diane worked as a Physicist on Advanced Energy Technologies concerning design and construction of the National Solar Thermal Test Facility at Sandia National Laboratory. Then Diane worked as Physicist/Engineering Supervisor at Allied-Signal Aerospace, Kansas City.

She was the stepmom to Marvin's three daughters: Paula, Karla and Marcia. She provided the example in life to be a caring, strong, intelligent, inspiring woman never afraid to try new things and follow your dreams. She taught the girls to snorkel and shared her love of the ocean. She taught the girls how to water ski and got in the water to help them get their skis on and cheered them on from the boat.

Diane was an active member of Broadway United Methodist Church, where she loved singing in the choir and created lifelong friendships, and sequentially Hume and Rich Hill United Methodist Churches.

Diane was a loving daughter and sister throughout her life. When her parents moved back to Kansas City, Diane navigated their care as they too suffered from Alzheimer's and dementia.

Diane’s consuming lifelong interests were sciences and art. At age 49, Diane with an art publishing and licensing contract in-hand, opted for a Voluntary Reduction in Force at Allied-Signal and became a full-time painter. She studied Fine Art/Illustration at the Kansas City Art Institute and had a prolific career lasting twenty years before onset of Alzheimer’s Disease. She painted domestic and wild animals, birds, flowers, vegetation, but big cats and other African animals were favorites. Having painted throughout her adult life, Diane began showing and selling her paintings, commissioned works, pen-and-ink animal portraits and prints at Juried Art Shows.

She loved spending time in Florida when she was young and after Marvin retired from UMKC where she loved going to Sande’s Restaurant and the Boynton Inlet.

As of Winter 1997-98, Marvin & Diane had purchased 400 acres of contiguous unimproved farmland in NW Vernon County, MO. During weekends of that winter, while sitting in the heated cab of a red (her favorite color) 1992 F350 diesel pickup truck, Diane did several landscape paintings of the farm that hang in their home today.

Diane had an adventurous fearless spirit. She would ride any ride at Worlds of Fun or Disney World and loved to go deep sea fishing. Whether building her own telescope or searching for four leaf clovers which she could spot so easily as luck would have it, Diane’s life was full of curious brilliance. She enjoyed nature, flowers, the stars and sharing that with her family, making her famous spaghetti, homemade chocolate ice cream on the 4th of July, her own ketchup and barbecue sauce from the garden tomatoes and her famous chocolate cake with marshmallow icing from scratch. Diane loved animals, especially her pets The Kitty, Tiger, the seasonal farm cat, and her poodle Mimi most of all. She was a gifted seamstress who could make anything from dresses to curtains, plus upholster furniture. She even made a Wonder Woman costume one Halloween for Marcia. There wasn’t anything she wasn’t able to learn and research and loved to help others with her gifts, hobbies and talents.

Diane was predeceased by her parents; son-in-law John Vinyard; and sister-in-law Sandra Querry.

Diane is survived by her husband, Marvin; three stepdaughters: Paula (Todd) George, Karla (Darek) Lester, Marcia Vinyard; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her brother-in-law Keith Querry; sister Jayne Ghent; brother Gerald Ghent; nieces and nephews: Stephanie (Chris) Gill, Christopher (Tracie) McCray, Jennifer (Michael) Martin, Jerry (Sara) Ghent along with great nieces and nephews and cousins.

Visitation followed by funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 22nd 10:00am at Rich Hill United Methodist Church; 221 East Park Street; Rich Hill, MO 64779. A luncheon will be held to celebrate Diane’s life following the service.

The family is grateful for the loving care Diane received at Barone Alzheimer’s Care Center, Credo Memory Care Center and from Mount Carmel Hospice. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials and donations to Mount Carmel Hospice; 1624 South National Avenue; Fort Scott, KS 66701. Condolences online at Heuser Funeral Home (heuserfunerals.com).

Lack of Interest

 By Doug Mager

A proposed wind turbine project that was to cover over 60 square miles located generally east of Passaic has been scrapped due to a "lack of interest"

Mid America Live got wind of the project last February as the Butler airport commission had received a letter from the Federal Aviation Administration seeking their comment, considering that the 700 foot tall turbines certainly could create a hazard for local aircraft. While it had already been determined that the closest turbines wouldn’t be directly in a flight path, it was requested by the commission that the closest one or two be moved a bit further out just for safety’s sake. 

Short of more information, we made contact the company in charge of the project, Harvest Ridge Wind Farms of Lenexa KS for comment. The reply was yes, indeed plans were moving ahead and that all information available online was correct, which included some 53, roughly 700 foot tall, electricity generating wind turbines spread out over 40,000 acres north of Butler and east of Passaic.

Wanting to know more, we paid a visit to the Bates county Recorder of Deeds to find that there were 109 land leases on the books for the project. Subsequently, those leased areas were shaded onto the pages of the Bates county plat book and there appeared to be a lot of gaps, indicating many more would be needed to get this thing off the ground.  

To confirm this, Mid America Live placed a call to the recorder of deeds in Jasper county (home to many turbines near Joplin) to get an idea of how many leases would be needed to make the Bates county wind farm a reality. The answer, followed by a giggle, was “it would need to be lot more than 109. Like 100 times that many.”

As word of the wind farm spread, many locals were quick to voice their opinion which generally brought a quick yes or no, and our very informal survey garnered a lot more no’s. But would that be enough to kill the project?

Apparently so, it’s official- over the past few weeks those who did sign leases were informed by Harvest Ridge by certified letter that yes indeed, the project is off the table due to a lack of interest by the majority of landowners in the area.

As an added note there are two solar panel farms in the works located near Amsterdam and both of which, encompassing about 4,000 acres each, are on track with a completion date yet to be announced. Mid America Live will provide updates on those as they become available.

Weekly meeting reports from the Bates County Commission

 

March 27 The Bates County Commission met with the Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

The Group Guardians of the Children came in asking to place a temporary memorial for child abuse awareness. April is Child abuse awareness month. They will install it and maintain it. As well as remove it in May. This display will have 63 pinwheels. One for each child that passed in 2021. Jim states that the courthouse lawn might not be the place for it. He is concerned with causing any prejudice from any trials at the courthouse. He recommended placing it on the parking lot of the Administration building. Corner of Delaware and Ft. Scott. It was also mentioned to check with White Oak Station to see if they would allow it. Ken made the motion to allow the Child Abuse memorial placed in the Administration lot. If they do not get permission to do it elsewhere. Trent seconded the motion. All votes yes. No opposition. Motion carried.

March 29 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Approved bills. 

The Commission met with Jim Platt, Danyelle Baker, Carl Bettels, Jami Page, Susie Smalley, Lynn Bennett, Daniel Stewart and Brenda Doody to discuss IT services.  The Commission will be putting out a bid for computer and network services.  The bid will exclude the Sheriff’s Office and the courts.  Anyone who wants to bid will be required to take an inventory of computer equipment that is in each office.  They will need to make an appointment with Jami Page to do the inventory.  Bids will be due by April 26th at 2:00.  The bids will be open at that time.  Jim Platt asked if the phones would continue to be with Lumen.  Jim Wheatley said they want to get away from using Brightspeed.  The IT provider we go with will monitor our phone system.  Brenda Doody said she currently does not have a server in her office.  She is backing up her computers to a flash drive.

April 3 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. In accordance with Sunshine Law Section 610.021 Legal Action.

Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney made the motion to go into closed session at 10:25 am. Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed. Closed session started. 

At 10:36 am Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson made the motion to leave closed session and resume normal meeting. Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed. Normal session resumed.  In accordance with Sunshine Law Section 610.021 Legal Action.

Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson made the motion to go into closed session. Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney seconded. All vote yes. Motion carried. Close Session commenced at 1:50pm. 

Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney made the motion to end closed session at 2:00 pm and resume regular meeting. Southern Commissioner seconded. All voted yes. Motion carried.

April 5 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Approved bills.

Bill Stephens with Road and Bridges came in to check in with the Commission. 

NextEra Energy representatives, Fiona Bagwell, John Felitto and Alan Anderson came in to check on the road use and decommission agreements. Jim reported they have spoken with Ivan Schraeder, the county’s legal representation, and he had cleared the agreement. Jim stated he has not read through it all as of  yet but is hoping to have it back to her on Monday. Jim did ask if they were only constructing the solar farm and then selling it. Fiona stated this company is the developer, owner and operator in most cases. Only once did they end up selling the farm to the utilities and even then they remained the operator. They have had 9 projects that all have gone as planned and to time frame. They want the same for our County so we would have a good experience to share.  Ken asked if the lease agreements with the landowner stays with the land or with the owner. Fiona stated they agreements are with the land. The payments could be changed but the agreements and easements stand for the 30 years. Ken also asked if the closing of the Lacygne power plant changes anything for the solar farm. Fiona stated no as the power plant is only the area where they can tie into the power grid. Jim asked about  hydrogen power. Fiona stated that in most cases the hydrogen power plants use renewable energy like solar and wind to fuel their generation. Having a mix of available sources only strengthens the power available on the grid. 

Ray and Nina, county maintenance and custodian, came over to bring to the commissions attention the courthouse camera and security system lease is about up. Currently we are paying $1100.00 to Federal Protection to lease the system. Per the agreement they are supposed to maintain, repair and replace any equipment. Currently they have not replaced the courtroom’s camera or view so that the whole room can be seen. They are also hard to get ahold of or deal with for repairs. Ray mentioned during the Fire Alarm System install with Atronic they provided a quote for owning a system with a maintenance agreement of $490.00 a month. They have been very helpful and available.

April 10 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

They went over the legal document for the NextEra Road Use Agreement. Ken made the motion to accept the road use agreement. Trent seconded the motion. All voted yes. Motion passed no opposition. Agreement was signed by the Commission and Attested by County Clerk, Jami Page. 

They also went over the decommissioning agreement. Ken made the motion to accept the decommissioning agreement. Trent Nelson seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed no opposition. Agreement was signed. Attested by County Clerk, Jami Page.

April 12 The Bates County Commission met with Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley was attending a meeting in Jefferson City.

10:00 am. Josh Framel, with Clearway, came in to update the commission on the Swan Project at Lacygne. This is the second solar project in the area. They are wanting to get conversations started on the Road Agreements and Decommissioning. They have the land they need  in agreements. Around 2000 acres in Missouri and 2000 acres in Linn County, Kansas. They will be moving into the boundary survey and geological testing phase. The design phase will be soon after. Once everything is set it should take about 18 months to complete. They will use a main contractor and hopefully hire local workers. 

11:00 Haley Meyers is wanting to present supplemental insurance to the county workers. This is a non-payroll supplemental insurance that is an owned policy. People keep the policy even if they move to a different job.  These policies are unique in the fact that if the policy is not used in 25 years the premiums up to that point are paid back to the person. The policy is still on-going and premiums still owed. This company is Better Business Bureau A+ and Best A+ rating.

April 17 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

9:00 County Clerk, Jami Page, has the assessor’s reimbursement that needs signed by the commission. She also brought in the ordinance for the Marijuana tax. The department of Revenue needs this soon. She also brought 3 quotes for a new mower for the courthouse.

11:00 Werner Jones, Hometown Tech, came in asking for permission to put a site to site antenna on the tower at the road and bridge barn. There are 2 customers out that way that are having trouble with their signal and this would boost that for them. His insurance would cover any instances this might cause. The equipment only weighs 11 pounds, and he would install it. He is a certified climber. The commission asked for him to come back when the signal he is using is more secure.   2:00 Todd with KC Web. This was rescheduled.

April 19 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney, joined that day. 

Todd Hanifl and Philp Derr with KC Web came in to discuss installing equipment on the radio tower for internet service. They own their own equipment and have their own carrier. This is needed to provide service to residents south of the tower. Jim stated he didn’t want people out there at all hours and would need to discuss this with the county attorney.  Todd said the equipment needs to be 100 feet up the tower. Trent mentioned the tower may need some maintenance done to it. The Commissions biggest concern                            Continued next page>

is security and liability. Todd assured the commission they were insured. Approved Bills. 

Lindsey Chaffin with Great River Engineering came in to talk about BRO-23 replacement on county road 130041/ 24ft wide bridge with guardrail. Preliminary estimate is $600,000.00. Project will start in 2024. They will start talking to the landowners in the late summer or early fall. 

Ryan Cutter, Meteorologist in Pleasant Hill came in to give a presentation on heavy rain and perform an exercise showing what the National Weather Service does for a watch and a flash flood warning. Those attending were Brenda Cecil, Jason Wix, Mike West, Jerret Wheatley, Dennis Jacobs, Jason Bennett, Jim Roberts, Derick Barr, Trent Diehl, and Brady Gilleland.                                                        

Commission approved for Dewey’s to go ahead and take down the tree on the south side. They want him to check the tree on the east side to see if it needs to come down or just be trimmed. 

Ken made the motion to appoint Wesley Hubbard to fill in the vacant position on the Senior Services Board. Trent 2nd. All in favor. Motion passed. 

The Commission hasn’t decided yet on the mower bid. 

Trent made the motion to approve the 3% marijuana sales tax ordinance. Ken seconded the motion. All in favor. Motion passed. Ordinance # 2023-01. 

Commission discussed with their legal counsel the use of taxpayer dollars.  They were informed by their legal counsel that according to Missouri State Constitution, Article 4, Sections 23 thru 25, no county, city or other political subdivision of the state shall be authorized to lend its credit or grant public money or thing of value to or in aid of any corporation, association or individual. The commission is to continue to discuss this at their next meeting.

April 24 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Kevin Fischer with PWSD #7 came in to check on the status of the ARPA money. The Commission stated they have been working on it and will make decisions in the next 2 weeks. Kevin says they are starting the work soon and just wants to be assured that they are receiving money from the ARPA. The commission stated they are committed to giving the water districts money for their repairs. 

The Courthouse is having issues with access to and from the building. Once people are in, they can go to any door and exit or let others in. There needs to be one main access point at the security desk. Atronic has submitted a quote to have the doors opened if the fire alarms go off. With this in place all the doors except the security door could be shut off. This would mean the employees would need to go through the security access point as well. 

Ken made the motion due to the structural integrity concerns no private entity is allowed to be on or put any equipment on the radio tower at the bridge barn. Trent seconded. All in favor. Motion passed with no opposition. A phone call was made to Russ at the Hospital, and he stated they use the repeater on the tower for communication with their ambulances. 

Bids for the lawn mower are Golden Valley Tractor in Clinton $13,174.99, Heritage Tractor in Adrian $16,694.00 and Extreme Motors in Butler $8942.00. Ken made the motion to go with Extreme Motors. Trent seconded. All in favor. Motion passed. No opposition.

April 26 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley present.  Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson came in later in the day.  Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney was absent. Approved bills.

May 3 The commission approved bills and met with Shayne Simmons regarding courthouse security.

May 8 No meeting, Truman Day holiday.

May 10 Approved bills.

May 15 Depository bid opening.

May 17 Approved bills

May 22 Met with Galen Floyd regarding group benefit services. I.T. bid opening.

May 24 Approved bills and held I.T. meeting.

May 29 No meeting, holiday.

May 31 Approved bills. Met with State Representative Sherri Gallick.

Additional notes regarding May meetings will be provided in an upcoming post.

Two solar panel projects proposed for Bates County

 

Not to be confused with a proposed wind turbine farm to be located east of Passaic, a representative of Clearway Energy Group met with the Bates county commissioners recently to get the ball rolling on a proposed solar panel farm near Amsterdam. While two separate companies are vying for property in the same general area, both a similar in size and power output which would be an estimated 250 megawatts each.

Several tracts of land are of interest, at least two located generally just south and north of the city limits giving both easy access to the grid, specifically the 435kv transmission lines connected to the La Cygne power plant.

The other company, NextEra Energy, has made a similar pitch to the commissioners requesting approval for needed infrastructure such as access roads, buried cable right of ways and other.

“We’re in the very early stages of this project” emphasized Joshual Framel of Clearway Energy Group as he went on to say that there is much work ahead as the company would anticipate a completion of the project in 2027. Some questions arose in the meeting inquiring about use of local labor for example, and that is likely but it would be handled by sub contractor who would make the final call.

It was also pointed out that there may indeed be a financial benefit for local schools as well, much like most green energy initiatives normally provide. An estimated amount will not be available until a much later phase of the project.

Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley stated early on that he was aware that other counties have “had issues” with similar projects and he wants to make sure the county is protected and that all contracts are clearly understood. For example, it was asked what if the landowner sells the property? What happens if NextEra or Clearway sell out to another company? Those present were assured that such questions would be addressed and answered prior to any contracts approved and signed.

Another posed was “would local consumers reap any other benefits such as a reduction on the price of power” that came with an answer of not likely. In the power world, as Framel explained, the grid is much like putting extra water in a river that someone could reclaim downstream- for example power can be added locally on the grid that might be used several states away, for example.

At this juncture both the Clearway and NextEra proposals are in their infancy; both companies are estimating about the same power output and both are anticipating a completion of about 4 years down the road.

Mid America Live will continue to provided updates on the solar projects as well as the proposed wind turbine project as information becomes available.

Clarification regarding solar farm news release

Earlier this week we reported that company NextEra is proposing a solar farm in the Amsterdam area, in which we incorrectly stated the end of life for the LaCygne power plant to come within 5 years; that estimate should have been 10 years as Evergy has previously stated they would not consider shutting down before 2032. 

Our apologies for any confusion and we will continue to reach out to Evergy for comment regarding this matter. 

Company seeks acreage in Bates county for solar venture

A solar farm similar to this one located near Butler is proposed just south of Amsterdam that would extend west to state line and will cover approximately 1000 acres.

On September 20th, Fiona Bagwell with associates John Felitto and Allen Anderson representing NextEra Energy met with the Bates County Commission to discuss moving forward with a proposed solar energy project in western Bates County. 

According to Bagwell, the scope of the project includes the use of solar panels, not windmills, similar to the solar farm located on the northwest corner of Butler and would encompass something in the neighborhood of 1,000 acres located directly south of Amsterdam and west to state line. 

A similar project is being proposed in Linn county Kansas, all part of a plan to locally provide electricity upon the planned shutdown of the coal fired LaCygne power plant within the next five years (a 50 year project that began in 1972). 

At this juncture, NextEra and the commission are hammering out details regarding fencing, road access and taxes with more details forthcoming.

Bates County Commission Minutes for August 2022

Bates County Commission Minutes for August.
SEMA/Papinville TS/Road closures
Monday, August 1, 2022
8:42 AM
9th day of July Term

The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commission Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Daniel Stewart, Assistant Surveyor, attended the SEMA Webinar for the Flood Plain. SEMA (Missouri State Emergency Agency) is requesting all counties to have a "tool kit" and plan of action in place in case of a flood event.

The Commission asked Daniel to get with Dennis Jacobs (EMA Director) and put together a plan and list for the tool kit. It is possible to get 100 percent funding for the kit by a grant with RHSOC thru Pioneer Trails if it is made available to surrounding counties. The commission also recommended a drone for the kit. Other grants are possible next year as this year's applications are closed.

Phyllis and John Stewart of Papinville Township needed to check on the road closure planned for bridge repair on highway B. The festival will be before the repairs take place.

Dennis Jacobs, EMA Director, received letters from MoDOT of upcoming repairs on Highways B and BB. Letters were sent via email to local media outlets and emergency services.

Fiona Bagwell/Greg Weaver
Wednesday, August 3, 2022
9:43 AM
The Bates County Commission met with Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present in the morning session. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley and Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney were out inspecting an electrical pole concern in Elkhart Township. All present in the afternoon.

1:00 pm meeting with Nextera Energy with Fiona Bagwell and Andrew Hart. Fiona presented a short video on what the solar field would look like. The panels are set in racks that are bolted to poles that go 5 ft into the ground. The construction phase will have a lot of hand work on each row.

Concrete pads for invertor and substation only. Rows connected to invertor with lines going to a substation. All areas are fenced (6ft) in and monitored 24/7. Monitoring is out of Florida which will call local technicians if anything needs checked. There will be local technicians on site at times as well.

Nextera will be building and working the site. Energy is transferred to lines used by the Lacygne Power Plant to Evergy. This increases Evergy power portfolio to coal, wind and solar.

The solar field is projected to produce 500 megawatts, with potential for more. This equates to supplying 82,000 homes. (100 megawatts =16,400 homes) Fiona reports they now have all the acreage, 4700 acres, they need to move to the design stage with construction projected to start in 2026. Local employment at several stages is possible and welcomed. Bids will be going out for construction and supplies.

At this point what is needed is the 3 agreements to be approved and signed to keep the process moving forward as planned.
Road Use
Decommissioning
Contribution

Presiding Commissioner asked for 30 days to review this with the County Attorney Ivan Schraeder. Fiona will check back after Labor Day.

Bill Stephens with Road and Bridge was asked to come by to go over the inspections coming up for In-depth Fracture Critical inspections. 2 bridges are to be inspected, #1810006 on county road NW 7001 over Miami Creek and #2690010 on county road NW 8002 over Miami Creek. This is set for October/November time frame.

The county is responsible for 20% of the total ($19,188.64) $3837.73. They note there is enough soft match money in our account for this cost. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley states, we will take the funds from CART monies in Road and Bridge budget.

3:00 pm Greg Weaver with Bates County Memorial Hospital brought in information on funding for Hospitals and Ambulances in the surrounding counties. (see August scanned documents at end of minutes)

Paid Bills
Monday, August 8, 2022
10:19 AM
The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson.

Approved current bills.
Received a phone call from Laurie with MoDOT. She will be sending a bill for the bridge inspections that will be done later this fall as mentioned in the August 3rd meeting.
Gavel Roads/Great River/Kaysinger Basin

Wednesday, August 10, 2022
12:54 PM
12th day of July Term
The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

10:00 David Kenner with Gavel Roads Auctions. His office is in Lone Jack MO. Specializing in construction and farm equipment sales for agencies. They are an online auction house that works with agency's needing to sell off excess goods, vehicles, tools and equipment. They also work with individuals. They have an FFL license to sell firearms. With agencies the service is free to the seller with the buyer paying a 10% commission to the Auction. With individuals there is a 5% selling fee as well as the 10% commission to the buyer.

The Auction handles the photos and marketing. The seller and buyer arrange pick up. He will handle pick up with the buyer if needed however prefers the seller and buyer handle this. They allow a reserve to be set on the item. If the item doesn’t sell the seller, simply can relist or have it taken off the site. They have auctions every 2 weeks. Would love to be considered for any surplus the county may have.

11:00 Lee Schofield with Great River Engineering brought in the final documents for signing on the BRO22 project. Bridge is complete and road has held up great.

1:00 Ryan Peters with Kaysinger Basin RPC wanting to talk over the MoDOT changes. The Regional Planning Commission along with a few MoDOT officials are meeting on August 24th in Springfield to go over the 52 applications for bridge replacements in the Southwest district. He wanted to check that the application was correct as sent. With the 2 different programs for replacements (BFP no payment and BRO percentage payment) they are considering meshing them together to create one program with a 12% percentage payment.

Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley asked if they were going to continue and/or pay out the last 2 years soft match money. Mr. Peters was not up to speed on soft match money or if this was a continuing program. Kaysinger was just brought in on the MoDOT Bro projects. This is all new to them. He will bring this up at the meeting. Mr. Peters did mention Kaysinger was working on a grant that will analyze road conditions across the region. They also have a new director at Kaysinger which will be announced tomorrow. They start September 1st.

Resolution 2022.01: Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney made the motion to continue with the membership of Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission as they have taken on the BRO projects for replacing bridges with MoDOT funding. Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson seconded the motion. All voted yes. No opposition. Motion passed. Jim will write up resolution.
Rd #2007

Monday, August 15, 2022
2:35 PM
13th day of July Term
The Bates County Commissioners met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Justin Decker with Decker Farms and Rick Long, equipment operator, came in to discuss an issue with County Rd #2007 between Osage and New Home townships. There is a low spot that collects water and needs repaired. Putting in a culvert right now would not help as the road is too low. This road also leads to the back side of the water treatment plant for Rich Hill.

Mr. Decker and Mr. Long are going to repair the road and submit the bill for repairs. The Road and Bridge will put in a culvert later. This road has been a problem due to a "main" fiber optic line for Kansas City to Joplin routed in the area.

No Official Work
Wednesday, August 17, 2022
2:53 PM
14th day of July Term

The Bates County Commissioners met with Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley attended the EMA meeting at the hospital out of office and returned in the afternoon.
No Official work was done.

Old 49 Highway/Courthouse Updates/Spruce Township
Monday, August 22, 2022
9:21 AM
15th day of July Term

The Bates County Commissioner met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present Daniel Stewart met with the Commissioners on the old 49 highway which is business 49 loop / Orange Street agreement with the state when the road was rerouted. They were to maintain the spur off at the railroad connection down by the old bowling alley to the end, which is not being done.
Ray Shaffer and Nina Carlton came in to update on the things being done at the Courthouse.

The exterior repairs are ongoing. The ADA door will be installed tomorrow. The grounds dead tree still needs removed. Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson will speak to Dewey again on the time frame. At this point there are limbs falling onto the parking area. One last paint bid was submitted.

The fire alarm system bids are still being worked on. Ray did mention they are finding a lot more syringes than before and asked about the exterior cameras that were being considered. At this time the cameras have been tabled.

A question has been brought up as to the zoning that Spruce Township supposedly had voted in place years ago. A search has started to find where and when this existed. Daniel Stewart is checking on it as well as searching the old minutes. (1996) The Township vaguely remembers of this. No map can be found at this point.

Spruce Township/Adrian Administrator/Elkhart Township
Wednesday, August 24, 2022
1:13 PM
16th day of July Term'

The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Daniel Stewart stopped in with update on the Spruce Township Zoning question. This zoning has to do with keeping certain types of farms out of certain areas of the township. He did find the paperwork in the Recorders Office. Daniel asked Butler Abstract to check if they had a map of this zoning after a check, they do not have a map. Township Board member Frank Inglis was the one who brought up the question of its existence.

The Farm Bureau had brought this up before, according to Jim, as it kept the county from being Agricultural ready. The validity of the zoning is in question. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley will be going over it with the County's attorney.

The City of Adrian's Administrator, Ryan Wescoat, came in seeking advice on a water supply failure. The pump that brings the water from the Grand River to the city failed and needs replaced and a line repaired. This has created an unforeseen expense to the budget. His question was if this could be considered for the ARPA funds as the repairs will being done on Cass County grounds. He was advised to apply.

Terry Vansandt, Elkhart Township Trustee, was needing direction on and issue with county road #6001 to 18 highway. This stretch of road needs repaired to prevent accidents from occurring. One of the residents has opted to make the repairs. He has talked to MoDOT. Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney is to contact with the resident.

MfSMA/CART
Monday, August 29, 2022
8:53 AM
17TH day of July Term
The Bates County Commissioners met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney was absent a short while and was present the rest of the day.

Assistant Surveyor, Daniel Stewart, will be attending the Missouri Floodplain and Stormwater Managers Association meeting in September.

Northern Commissioner made the motion to pay out CART funding to those townships that have the paperwork in and completed. Southern Commissioner seconded the motion. All voted yes. No opposition. Motion carried. See notice in end of month scanned documents.

Courthouse Entrance/Hume Fire Department/Cook Insurance/CART
Wednesday, August 31, 2022
8:53 AM
26th day of July Term

The Bates County Commission met with presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Kenny Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

10:00 am Ray Shaffer and Nina Carlton came over to give updates on Courthouse happenings. With the entrance to the courthouse being moved to the old license office there are a few changes that need done. Ray will be remodeling the office. Blueprint and immediate materials list was supplied. (see end of month scanned documents) There will also need to be some ongoing changes with this area being a public waiting area i.e. maintenance, upkeep and housekeeping.

Derek Sutcliff with Hume Fire Department. Came in to speak of the needed equipment for the fire department. He will be submitting applications for the ARPA money to be distributed in the fall.

Charles Rush with Cook Insurance came to update information for insurance. He has several items needing updated for the upcoming quotes.

The Southern and Northern Commissioner spent some time reaching out to those townships that have not submitted all items needed for the CART funding payout.

Important read: Beef facility 'fills plate' for Butler council

While there were a few technical glitches last night as the Butler city council meeting was held online, the  meeting was chock full of important issues. From the beginning:

First, it was noted that a bill for just over $9,900.00 was explained to council members- it was a $150.00 holiday bonus for city employees that was paid via gift cards. Due to how the cards were purchased and disbursed, the bill was consolidated into one lump sum.

Upon the move of councilman Jeff Hall to another ward, his vacant seat has been filled by Alan J. Mundey by unanimous vote. Also due to the move by Hall, the position of Mayor pro-tem has been filled by Doncella Liggins. Congrats to both.

There was a public hearing regarding the medical marijuana businesses in Butler. This is a rather complicated process, as the grow facility (Local Leaf) and the manufacturing facility (Revival98), although in the same building must have separation in terms of doing business. A conditional use permit will be issued. More details on the dispensary will be forthcoming.

Seats will be open in all four wards in 2021. Those wishing to file may do so beginning December 15th at city hall. However, due to city hall being closed to the public for covid concerns, call for details on how to file.

A long segment of the meeting was devoted to discussion of renewing the lease of the fairground property to the fair board and saddle club. A 30 year lease is on the table; however there is a lot to consider regarding grounds maintenance, ownership of the buildings and more. The city attorney is going to write up a draft of the contract which will be mulled at the upcoming meeting.

For the record, the solar farm does not belong to the city of Butler. The current owner is considering selling the farm and it was brought up that the city should have first option to buy the farm; however, city hall is scrambling to find any contract documents that might contain this information.

Cares Act money was made available to Bates County as reported June 17th of this year- and doling out the available $1.8 million is proving to be a bit tricky. The city would like to receive a portion to cover hazard pay for all city employees; however it looks like the police and fire department may be first on the list to receive any of it. A group of five in the county offices, including commissioners have final say on where the money goes however, they are under a constant audit to verify that the money is handed out per strict rules. From the city's perspective, they must first spend the money then ask the county for reimbursement that could lay the groundwork for an expensive catch-22 if the county does not reimburse due to a technicality. It was suggested that the council meet with the county for some kind of assurance. You can read the June story regarding the Cares Act money here https://batescountynewswire.blogspot.com/2020/06/work-in-progress-doling-out-18-million.html

A Facebook video allegedly showing blood and cow parts outdoors at the Kansas City Beef Company (former Thorco location) began  another long discussion about concerns from neighbors near the facility. As we reported a public hearing held on November 20th by the planning commission, it appears the facility has been in operation since June, unknown by many, including some council members. This of course has sparked discussion about whether or not the plant is operating under the correct guidelines in terms of the city, state and other governance. To add to the confusion, Kansas City Beef has approached the planning commission asking for permission to slaughter at the facility (currently slaughter is off site) and in that, it was discovered there is an issue with zoning that would need to be resolved as well. At this time, it appears Kansas City Beef is operating within their legal bounds; a special meeting will be held December 8th regarding this issue and Mid America Live will provide more details about the meeting in upcoming days.

A short discussion was held regarding the removal of political signs still up in the area. An easy fix would be for property owners to simply drop them in the trash IF candidates don't do the right thing and do it first.

Butler Police Department Activity Report 6/20 - 6/26 - 2016

• 06/20/2016 

Well being check
Disturbance call W Ft Scott
Warrant service
Walk in assault report
Warrant service Wal-Mart
Prowler 1000 block of W Mill
Speak to Officer
Accident Nursery and Delaware
Stalled vehicle S Main
Disturbance 100 block of S Broadway
Alarm Security Bank
 

• 06/21/2016 

Walk in theft report
Accident Mill and Fulton
Well being check 300 block of W Harrison
Well being check Chestnut and Delaware 
Medical assist 400 block of S Main
Alarm Solar Farm
Leave without pay Conoco
Missing child report
Fireworks call 200 block of S Main
 

• 06/22/2016 

Animal complaint 400 block of N Main
Traffic assist Schowengerdt
Walk in theft report
Dog locked in vehicle on square
Keep the peace 400 block of W College
Disturbance call S Main
Leave without pay Bear Stop
 

• 06/23/2016 

Disturbance call 200 block of N High
Accident Delaware and Ft Scott
Accidnt 300 block of W Ohio
Noise complaint S Park
 

• 06/24/2016 

Missing person report
Traffic assist Rice Rd and Nursery
Speak to Officer
Medical assist 300 block of W Vine
 

• 06/25/2016 

Medical assist 200 block of W Clark
Disturbance BCMH
Property damage report Super 8
Speak to Officer X2
Assist DFS 200 block of S Mechanic
Well being check S Park
Report of Fireworks being shot S Willow
Disturbance Fran and W-52
 

• 06/26/2016

Keep the peace North Street
Alarm 900 block of N High
Warrant service
Harassment report McDonalds
Assist BCSO
Pan Handler report Wal_mart
911 Medical 200 block of S Austin
 
 

Butler Police Department Activity Report 6/29 - 7/5 - 2015

•  06/29/2015 

Animal complaint Country Club Dr

Animal complaint Mill and Orange
Warrant service 500 block of N Fulton
Alarm 400 block of S Fulton
Vandalism report
Harassment report
Report of Fireworks Fran Apts
Animal complaint ohio and Fulton
Disturbance 600 block of S High
 

• 06/30/2015 

911 hang up 800 block of N Orange
Well being check 300 block of E Dakota
Traffic assist Schowengert
Walk in assault report
Disturbance 400 block of W vine
Disturbance 100 block of S Fulton
Report of fireworks being shot
 

Butler Police Department Activity Report: 6/15 - 6/21 - 2015

• 06/15/2015 

Assist BCSO
Disturbance 500 block of N Havanna
Leave without pay Conoco
Trespassing call 600 block of W Adams
Well being check
Disturbance 200 block of W Dakota
Disturbance Conoco
Animal complaint Mill and Main

• 06/16/2015 

Walk in theft report
Keep the peace
Harassment report
Animal complaint W-52
911 hang up Days Inn
Animal complaint 600 block of W Adams
Disturbance 300 block of W Adams
Disturbance 800 block of S Birch
Well being check 100 block of S Austin

Butler Police Department Activity Report 6/1 - 6/7 - 2015

• 06/01/2015 

Well being check 200 block of W Vine
Animal complaint Maple St
Well being check 700 block of N Delaware
Open door resident check 400 block of olive
Disturbance BCMH

• 06/02/2015 

Noise complaint S Park
Speak to Officer Days Inn
Animal complaint Fulton and Pine
Theft report S Birch
Assist Water Department 7 S Birch
Disturbance N Maple
Property Damage 400 block of W Harrison
Warrant service
Alarm Solar Farm

Butler Police Department Activity Report 5/11 - 5/17 - 2015

• 05/11/2015

Prowler 300 block of N Havanna
Disturbance Wal-Mart parking lot
Walk in trespassing report
911 miss dial
Animal complaint 300 block of W Harrison
Theft report Main and Ft Scott

• 05/12/2015 

Animal complaint S Bus 49
Animal complaint 800 block of W Pine
Kids with BB gun Ohio and Maple
Disturbance 300 block of N Main
Disturbance 800 block of N Fulton

New Butler City Clerk Hired

Corey Snead with Mayor Don Malan

Butler’s new City Clerk was announced and congratulated at the City Council meeting. Deputy City Clerk Corey Snead will be the new City Clerk replacing Casey Koehn who was recently appointed Butler’s City Administrator.

Steven Stivers came before Council asking them to wave the $50 peddlers license. He stated he would like to donate back to the community by holding concerts and donating money to charitable organizations. But when questioned regarding what organizations, he didn’t have a lot of specific answers. When told the city couldn’t waive the fee according to the city codes, he became belligerent, made a gesture and uttered some choice words before he left.

In other business, the first three houses have been demoed and that just leaves 27 more to do. There is still a chance that 2 more properties will be added to the list to be demolished.

The real estate contract for the Maple Senior Living building is in the hands of the council for the Butler School District. Originally a quit claim deed was what was sent to the district but their council felt a General Warranty Deed was needed for their protection instead of the quit cliam. Tom Addelman, Butler City Attorney stated there was no problem with this. The inspection has taken place no problems were found.

Council did an abatement for Mr. Robert Olney, who recent passed away owing the city $175. The abatement will take the amount off the books for the purposes of State Audits and clean up the files of the court clerk.

Casey Koehn, City Administrator, has created a reservation document and a calendar has been created to make reservations for the city parks. Anyone can go to the city website: www.butlermo.com which will allow everyone to check the availability of the shelters before contacting City Hall to make reservations.

MC Power is working on designs for the highway signs regarding the solar farm and more will be discussed at later council meetings.

Two bills were adopted, Bill No. 2015-3 Ord 1000 regarding weeds, vegetation and debris of the City of Butler, and the second Bill No. 2015-4 Ord 1001 to enable the City of Butler to join the Missouri Clean Energy District, both were adopted.
One resolution – Resolution No 418 which authorizes City Administrator Casey Koehn to sign checks, and this passed.

Elizabeth Ogg, Bates County Economic Developer presented Council with her 1st quarter report for 2015 outlining events that transpired during the first quarter.

Courtesy of Fm 92.1 News Director Marla Kash

Butler Police Department Activity Report 1-5 / 1-11 2015

01/05/2015 

Disturbance 800 block of S High
Shoplifter Wal-Mart
Alarm 500 block of S Broadway
Animal complaint S Main

01/06/2015

 Warrant service
Animal complaint 500 block of N Fulton
Shoplifter call Corner Hardware
Animal complaint Lee St
Assist BCSO S High
911 call BCMH
Medical assist Rose Ln
Animal complaint Clark and Maple

01/07/2015 

Well being check
Road blockage Rice Road
Animal complaint 
Warrant service Orange St
Well being check 300 block of E Nursery
Animal complaint Fran Ave

01/08/2015 

Assault report 400 block of E Dakota
Attempt to locate
Traffic control Schowengert
Alarm Solar Farm

01/09/2015 

Warrant service Conoco
Assist BCSO
Alarm ATM
Animal complaint 400 block of S High

01/10/2015 

Well being check City Lake
Disturbance 500 block of S High
Accident S Main
Traffic control Mullinax
Theft report 300 block of N Main
Animal complaint 400 block of S Mechanic

01/11/2015 Disturbance 800 block of Grove
Speak to Officer 
Disturbance 200 block of S High
Assault report
Disturbance Super 8

Butler Police Department Activity Report 11/24 - 11/30 - 2014

• 11/24/2014 

Medical assist 700 block of N Havanna
Medical assist 200 block of E Pleasant
Open door 400 block of S Fulton
Medical assist 400 block of N Main
Disturbance 100 block of N Austin
Animal complaint Fulton and Clark
Animal complaint 400 block of S Fran

• 11/25/2014 

Open door W Ohio
Alarm 200 block of Mechanic
Keep the peace Inn Building
Animal complaint N Main

• 11/26/2014 

Assist Fire Dept. 400 block of College
Disturbance 600 block of N Main
Open door 400 block of S High
Shoplifter Wal Mart
Alarm 1100 block of W Ft Scott

Weekly report from the Butler Police Department

11/10/2014 
Open door 100 block of W Ohio
Warrant service 200 block of S Fulton
Medical assist Fran Apts
Alarm 300 block of S Main
Disturbance 300 block of W Ohio

11/11/2014 
Medical assist 300 block of W Ft Scott
Well being check 600 block of W Park
Animal complaint 400 block of S High

Job Opening

We've been taking applications for our company Herrell Construction. The positions needed are to put up solar panels at the Solar Farm. 

We need 3-4 guys who can lift 40-50 pounds. Can show up everyday clean and sober. That's all. It's a 3 week job. Things we have encountered that will NOT work. 

If you can only work one day a week bc you have to have rest days Don't call. 

If you have a back problem and are on disability. Don't call. If you are not now or have never been drug free. Don't call. 

If you only want to work 2 days to get your unemployment. Don't call. Everyone else please call 660-464-1635. Thanks

Butler Police Department Activity Report: 9/29/14 - 10/5/14

• 09/29/2014 

Medical assist 200 block of S Austin
Assist MSHP
Animal complaint 100 block of S Austin
Keep the peace 100 block of S Olive
Warrant service 400 Fran

• 09/30/2014 

Animal complaint 400 block of N Havanna
Theft report
Alarm Solar Farm
Disturbance 300 block of W Ohio
Pick up Juvenile transport to school

• 10/01/2014 

Well being check 300 block of W Ohio
Well being check 400 block of E Ft Scott
Theft report 400 block of S Fran
911 hang up 300 block of E Atkinson
Alarm 1300 block of N Orange
Medical assist 100 block of Osage
Animal bite Hospital
Medical assist 100 block of longsinger
Theft report Casey’s
Theft report 100 block of S Fulton

• 10/02/2014 

Assist BCSO
Well being check 300 block of W Ohio
Open door Olive and Nursery
Speak to Officer
Medical assist 200 block of E Ft Scott
Well being check 200 block of N Water
Keep the peace Water and Park
Well being check 100 block of W Ft Scott
C and I driver report
Theft from vehicle 600 block of S High
Alarm 600 block of W Mill

• 10/03/2014 

Well being check 600 block of N Main
Animal complaint 300 block of N High
Disturbance 200 block of W Atkison
Animal complaint W Ft Scott
Animal complaint 100 block of N Broadway
Warrant service

• 10/04/2014 

Prowler 800 block of Wix Lane
Warrant service
Medical assist 411 Fran
Well being check Wal Mart
Warrant service

• 10/05/2014 

Accident Ft Scott and Lyons
Vandalism report 700 block of Country Club
C and I Driver Russell St
Medical Assist South Fran

Butler Police Department Activity Report 9/22 - 9/28 - 2014

09/22/2014 

Alarm City Hall 

Animal complaint 300 block of W College 

Counterfeit bill report

 Medical assist 100 block of S High 

Accident High School 

Keep the peace 100 block of S Delaware 

Speak to Officer 

C and I driver report E Pine 

Well being check 

Assault report Orange St

 Animal complaint 400 block of W Harrison

09/23/2014 

Stolen bike report

Alarm 900 block of Country Club 

Walk in Assault report 

Accident S Main

Speak to officer 

09/24/2014 

Disturbance 400 block of E Ft Scott 

Assist BCSO
Alarm Taco Bell 

Disturbance Boy Scott park 

Speak to Officer 

Animal complaint S High

09/25/2014

Open door High School 

Walk in report 

Trespassing call 400 block of S Main 

Medical assist Fran Apts 

Accident truck hits telephone pole and leaves area 

Animal complaint 600 block of S Main 

09/26/2014 

Attempt to locate
C and I driver W 52 

Disturbance Willow Green 

Assist DFS 400 block of E Ft Scott 

Well being check S High 

Attempt to locate possible hit and run vehicle 

Accident Main and Country Club Tr 

Warrant service W Nursery

09/27/2014 

Disturbance Super 8 

Warrant service Chestnut and Delaware 

Theft of Utilities 200 block of S Mechanic 

Alarm Solar Farm 

Animal complaint Fair grounds
. 

09/28/2014 

Warrant service Butler PD 

Speak to Officer 100 block of N Water 

Phone theft report

Keep the peace 300 block of W Ohio 

Suspicious person call 200 block of S Austin 

Accident Wal Mart parking lot 

Disturbance High and Howard 

Keep the peace 400 block of E Ft Scott

Animal complaint 300 block of N Havanna