Dustin Lewis proposes housing development plan for Fort Scott with 20 to 30 homes

The Bourbon County Commission convened on December 30, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on housing development and the status of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Legacy Property.

The meeting began with a presentation from Dustin Lewis, who proposed a new housing development in Bourbon County. Lewis outlined plans for a project that would include 20 to 30 single-family homes, each approximately 2,000 square feet. He expressed enthusiasm about the potential partnership with the county and city, noting that discussions had already taken place with the city of Fort Scott regarding suitable locations for the development. Lewis emphasized the importance of community support as they move forward with feasibility studies and planning.

Following Lewis's presentation, the commission turned its attention to the Legacy Property MOU. A commissioner raised concerns about the current restrictions on the property, which have hindered development. The discussion highlighted that Legacy Property has fulfilled its obligations under the existing agreement, and there was a consensus among commissioners that the restrictions should be lifted to allow for further development. The conversation included references to the need for housing to attract businesses and employees to the area, with one commissioner stressing that without adequate housing, efforts to bring in new businesses would be futile.

The meeting concluded with a call for action to amend the existing MOU to facilitate the development of the land, which is seen as crucial for the community's growth. The commissioners expressed a shared commitment to supporting housing initiatives and ensuring that Bourbon County remains an attractive place for new residents and businesses alike.