Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

KDADS Announces $66 Million in Facility and Workforce Training Expansion Grants

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services today announced $66 million has been made available through the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and State Finance Council to close service gaps in the continuum of care by addressing statewide shortages of health and behavioral health services and the state’s increasing demand for a well-trained healthcare workforce.

The funds, approved by the State Finance Council in December, are available to service providers, educational institutions, local units of government, and non-profit organizations to specifically address three program areas: expansion of health care facilities; expanding the reach of current service providers; and workforce training expansion.

“The $66 million in SPARK funding allocated to KDADS can make a significant difference in expanding access to services by funding new facilities, program expansions, and workforce training,” KDADS Deputy Secretary of Hospitals and Facilities Scott Brunner said. “KDADS is excited to put these funds to use in communities across Kansas to meet the needs of people with mental illness, disabilities, and long-term care needs.”

Applicants must specify which of the following three program areas their proposal addresses:

Program 1: Expansion of health care facilities.  KDADS seeks applications from service providers, local units of government, established partnerships of providers, or non-profit organizations to expand health care facilities.  The facility expansion must result in more services being delivered within a defined geographic area or clearly increase service capacity through more licensed bed space, expanded treatment facilities, or additional credentialed providers.  Expanded health care facilities must deliver more services in one or more of the following areas:

  • Behavioral health
  • Services for adults or children in acute psychiatric crisis
  • Forensic evaluation and restoration for criminal competency cases
  • Community based services for individuals with disabilities that would otherwise require nursing facility level of care

Program 2: Expand reach of current service providers.  KDADS seeks applications from Medicaid enrolled service providers to deliver Medicaid services through innovative delivery models using technology to expand the reach of current service providers or to reach additional Medicaid eligible beneficiaries.  Grantees must describe how their proposed intervention expands access to services for underserved individuals or communities.

Program 3: Workforce Training Expansion.  KDADS seeks applications from providers, local units of government, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations to expand workforce training.  Workforce training expansion must result in an increase in students being trained to serve in the medical field.  Grantees must document the number of trainees and how they will impact the future health care workforce.

KDADS’s application process is open now, with submissions closing March 17 at 5:00 p.m. and awards announced March 29.

Applicants and any questions regarding the funding opportunity should be submitted to [email protected]. More information about this funding opportunity and the complete Request for Application can be found on the KDADS website: https://kdads.ks.gov/funding-opportunities.

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Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Proclaims March Problem Gambling Awareness Month

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Governor Kelly Proclaims March Problem Gambling Awareness Month

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed a proclamation designating March Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) in Kansas. The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Serves (KDADS), in collaboration with the Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling (KCPG), recognizes March as PGAM as part of the national campaign held annually. The 2023 campaign theme is “Celebrating 20 Years” (#PGAM2023).

Problem gambling is defined as all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. Approximately 2 million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet criteria for severe problem gambling. Another 4-6 million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling. Problem gambling affects thousands of Kansans of all ages, races and ethnic backgrounds and can have a significant societal and economic cost for individuals, families, businesses, and communities.

“The good news is problem gambling is treatable and treatment is effective in minimizing harm,” KDADS Problem Gambling Program Manager Carol Spiker, LAC, KCGC, said. “It’s vital to de-stigmatize issues around problem gambling so we can reach more people to let them know there are programs and information out there to address their problem head on.”

One intervention tool, or harm reduction strategy, that has seen success in recent years in Kansas is the self-exclusion program. Self-exclusion is a voluntary process where a person bans themselves from entering specific gambling venues, or from accessing online providers. All Kansas gambling providers are required to provide the option to customers to self-exclude from accessing their venue or their products. Individuals enter into an agreement that excludes them for an agreed minimum period of time. The agreements authorize venue management to take reasonable steps to remove individuals on the self-exclusion list from state-owned casino property or the online gaming app of a state-owned casino. For some, self-exclusion is a step taken when other methods of minimizing harm have been tried without much success. For others, self-exclusion can be the first step.

Problem Gambling Awareness Month is designed to help raise awareness of the prevention, treatment and recovery services, and harm reduction strategies available to those adversely affected by gambling.

To get help for a gambling problem for you or a loved one, please call the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 (or 1-800-GAMBLER). The call is free and confidential. No-cost treatment is available to problem gamblers and concerned others through the Problem Gambling and Addictions Grant Fund. For more information about problem gambling and the resources available in Kansas, go to ksgamblinghelp.com.

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Government, Kansas

KS Tax Collections Exceed Estimates in February

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Governor Kelly Announces February Total Tax Collections Exceed Estimates by Nearly $37 Million

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that total tax-only collections for February were $549.8 million. That is $36.8 million, or 7.2%, more than the monthly estimate. Those collections were also $47.3 million, or 9.4%, more than in February 2022.

“Revenues have exceeded estimates for 30 out of the last 31 months – a clear sign that our efforts to make Kansas a place where businesses and families want to call home is paying off,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These revenues will continue to grow our historic budget surplus, making it possible for our legislature to pass responsible tax cuts that help every Kansan, like my ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan.”

Consistently strong revenues were one of the reasons S&P Global improved Kansas’ credit outlook, which the firm announced yesterday. In its report, S&P cited Governor Kelly’s recommended budgets for fiscal years 2023 and 2024 as indicators of continued fiscal responsibility that could lead to a credit rating upgrade and warned against irresponsible tax plans that could lead to a credit rating downgrade.

Individual income tax collections were $211.3 million in February. That is $6.3 million, or 3.1%, above the estimate and $27.9 million, or 15.2%, more than February 2022.

“The positive trend in tax receipts continues with all of the major tax types, individual income tax, corporate income tax, retailer’s sales tax, and compensating use tax, performing well,” Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart said.

Corporate income tax collections were $15.3 million, which is $324,000, or 2.2%, more than the February 2023 estimate. Those collections are $8.1 million, or 34.5%, less than in February 2022. It should be noted that February 2022 corporate income tax receipts were greater than February 2023 because of the higher-than-expected collection of nonrecurring corporate audit assessments that occurred that month.

Retail sales tax collections were $203.8 million, which is $13.8 million, or 7.3%, more than the estimate. Those collections are also $8.5 million, or 4.4%, greater than February 2022. Compensating use tax collections were $64.2 million, which is $849,000, or 1.3%, less than the estimate. Those collections were $4.7 million, or 8.0%, more than in February 2022.

Click here to view the February 2023 revenue numbers.

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Government, Kansas

KDADS Announces $66 Million in Facility and Workforce Training Expansion Grants

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services today announced $66 million has been made available through the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and State Finance Council to close service gaps in the continuum of care by addressing statewide shortages of health and behavioral health services and the state’s increasing demand for a well-trained healthcare workforce.

The funds, approved by the State Finance Council in December, are available to service providers, educational institutions, local units of government, and non-profit organizations to specifically address three program areas: expansion of health care facilities; expanding the reach of current service providers; and workforce training expansion.

“The $66 million in SPARK funding allocated to KDADS can make a significant difference in expanding access to services by funding new facilities, program expansions, and workforce training,” KDADS Deputy Secretary of Hospitals and Facilities Scott Brunner said. “KDADS is excited to put these funds to use in communities across Kansas to meet the needs of people with mental illness, disabilities, and long-term care needs.”

Applicants must specify which of the following three program areas their proposal addresses:

Program 1: Expansion of health care facilities.  KDADS seeks applications from service providers, local units of government, established partnerships of providers, or non-profit organizations to expand health care facilities.  The facility expansion must result in more services being delivered within a defined geographic area or clearly increase service capacity through more licensed bed space, expanded treatment facilities, or additional credentialed providers.  Expanded health care facilities must deliver more services in one or more of the following areas:

  • Behavioral health
  • Services for adults or children in acute psychiatric crisis
  • Forensic evaluation and restoration for criminal competency cases
  • Community based services for individuals with disabilities that would otherwise require nursing facility level of care

Program 2: Expand reach of current service providers.  KDADS seeks applications from Medicaid enrolled service providers to deliver Medicaid services through innovative delivery models using technology to expand the reach of current service providers or to reach additional Medicaid eligible beneficiaries.  Grantees must describe how their proposed intervention expands access to services for underserved individuals or communities.

Program 3: Workforce Training Expansion.  KDADS seeks applications from providers, local units of government, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations to expand workforce training.  Workforce training expansion must result in an increase in students being trained to serve in the medical field.  Grantees must document the number of trainees and how they will impact the future health care workforce.

KDADS’s application process is open now, with submissions closing March 17 at 5:00 p.m. and awards announced March 29.

Applicants and any questions regarding the funding opportunity should be submitted to [email protected]. More information about this funding opportunity and the complete Request for Application can be found on the KDADS website: https://kdads.ks.gov/funding-opportunities.

Art, Government, Kansas

Mural, Public Art Funding Available from Department of Commerce

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced multiple opportunities to support the creation of murals and public art in the state though coordinated funding programs from the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) and the Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP). The programs will provide funding for communities to use public spaces for the purposes of artistic use and creative endeavors.

“Public art is one of many factors that drives decisions about where people will stop for a meal, open a business or move their family,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Commerce looks forward to partnering with communities across Kansas on this important quality-of-life opportunity that supports economic growth and community pride.”

The programs are designed to utilize artists, creative interventions, and arts organizations to increase community vibrancy and provide space for artistic expression and public engagement.

KCAIC’s Mural and Public Art Program applications are open through March 13 to all 501c3 organizations, units of local government, and federally recognized tribes across Kansas. The maximum request is $10,000. A 100% match is required for the award which must be at least 25% cash match and up to 75% in-kind match. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2024. Applications may be found here.

“Public art projects provide an opportunity for communities to reflect on and celebrate their unique story,” KCAIC Interim Director Kate Van Steenhuyse said. “Whether large or small in scale, public art becomes part of community identity, and can have far-reaching benefits well beyond the installation itself.”

ORP’s Rural Mural Program will also be accepting new applications from March 13 to May 1. The maximum grant award will be $7,500. Only applicants from communities with a population fewer than 15,000 are eligible. A 100% match is required for the award which must be at least 25% cash match and up to 75% in-kind match. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2023. ORP will have a Rural Mural Planning Webinar at 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 3 (register here). Once the application window is open, applications will be available here.

“Last year, a total of 37 Rural Mural projects were completed in 14 different communities,” ORP Director Trisha Purdon said. “Our office looks forward to working with a whole new group of partners in 2023.”

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping communities through financial support, technical assistance and process guidance as they imagine new projects through the Mural Making initiative. As part of this effort, an online resource guide designed to put communities on a path for growth and prosperity through arts and culture and place-based community development is available here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021 and 2022, and was awarded the 2021 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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February 24, 2023

 

What a difference a week makes?  In the two days before turnaround, the halfway point in session, 42 bills were scheduled for debate on the Senate floor, 3 of them were pulled for various reasons.  The list of bills is not made available to Senators or the public until the evening before debate.  On Tuesday evening, 27 bills were scheduled for debate Wednesday.  It makes for an intense environment.  Think of it this way.  In 7 weeks of session, 280 Senate bills have been introduced, 62 that passed out of committee were selected by leadership for debate on the senate floor and passed to the House.  Thirty-eight of the 62 were passed in two days.  Here are a few highlights.

 

Income Tax cuts passed the Senate in Senate Bill (SB) 33 and SB 169.  SB 33 would exempt Social Security from state income tax.  Some of the amendments that passed during debate include increasing standard deductions each year based on inflation, exempting all retirement accounts from state income tax, and increasing qualifying parameters for the property tax freeze for seniors and disabled veterans that became law last year.  The home valuation limit would go from $350,000 to $595,000.  The 50% exemption of Social Security from income would be 100%.  More Kansans will qualify for the program with these changes.  SB 33 bill passed 36 to 3.  I voted Yes.

 

SB 169 would create a single 4.75 state income tax rate without increasing taxes.  The bill exempts the first $10,450 for married filing jointly or $5,225 filing single.  This exemption is what keeps the 4.75 rate from being a tax increase on lower income earners.  Currently, individuals with taxable income of $2,500 or below are not taxed, $5,000 for married filing jointly.  But if a taxpayer makes $2501, there is a “cliff”, meaning that a dollar difference results in a taxpayer paying 3.1 percent on the entire income amount.  After a single filer reaches the $2,501 threshold, taxable income not over $15,000 is taxed at 3.1, income between $15,001 and $30,000 is taxed at 5.25, and income above $30,000 is taxed at 5.75.  For married filing jointly, the thresholds double.  It is obvious the 4.75 rate simplifies state income taxes and would get rid of the cliff for low-income filers.  It will allow Kansans to keep more of their hard-earned money, instead of growing government.  I voted yes.  The bill passed 22 to 17.

 

State Grocery Taxes are scheduled to go to zero in 2025, unless SB 248 becomes law.  In SB 248, all grocery taxes, state and local, would go to zero in 2024.  It is a big change.  Some local governments are against the bill, but it is tax relief that many Kansans need.  The bill passed 22 to 16.  I voted yes.

 

Secure Elections by prohibiting ballot drop boxes passed the Senate 21 to 19 in SB 208.  I voted yes.  Another attempt was made to make odd year elections partisan in SB 210.  I did not support this change.  The bill failed on a vote of 16 to 24.  Write-in candidates for certain elections would have to file an affidavit in SB 221.  The bill was brought by election officials that want to save time when counting ballots, so if a person writes in Micky Mouse it will not count unless there is a signed affidavit for Micky.  It’s your ballot and you should be able to write-in whomever you please.  I voted no, but the bill passed 29 to 7.

 

Women’s Bill of Rights, SB 180, would designate biological sex at birth, male or female.  It will protect women’s sports and stop situations such as males being housed in a female prison because it would require separate accommodations.  It should also stop this nonsense on school trips – Eudora girl forced to room with biological male on school-sponsored overseas trip. The Senate passed it on a vote of 26 to 10.  I supported the legislation.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

Government, Kansas

Commerce Makes $4.1M in Community Service Tax Credits Available

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced $4.1 million in tax credits will once again be made available under the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP).

CSP assists private nonprofit organizations and public healthcare entities undertaking major capital campaigns for projects involving:

  • Community service, including childcare
  • Non-governmental crime prevention
  • Youth apprenticeship and technical training
  • Healthcare services.

Under this program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors making contributions towards approved projects. Organizations are chosen through a competitive selection process. The application window is open from March 1 through April 30, 2023, at kansascommerce.gov/csp. Applicants may request up to $200,000 in tax credits.

Proposed projects should be unique or one-time in nature and create lasting value for charitable organizations. For example, projects might include a capital campaign, major equipment purchase, major renovation, capacity building, etc. As was the case in 2022, CSP has earmarked up to $1 million for childcare and early childhood development projects for services to those under the age of 5.

Applicant organizations in rural areas (less than 15,000 population) are eligible for a 70 percent credit. Applicant organizations in non-rural areas are eligible for a 50 percent credit.

If your organization is interested in applying for the CSP program, the Department of Commerce invites you to an introductory webinar at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 1. Registration is required. For more information and to register, click here.

For questions regarding CSP Tax Credits, contact Community Development Specialist Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021 and 2022, and was awarded the 2021 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine

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Government, Kansas, Schools

Learning Recovery Grants For Public School Students

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Governor Kelly Announces Qualifying Families
Can Now Apply for $1000 per Student
for Learning Recovery

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) is open to applications from qualifying parents and guardians of Kansas students. KEEP provides a $1,000 award per student to pay for various educational goods and services that promote learning recovery and facilitate academic enrichment opportunities.

“This program will provide Kansas students with new opportunities and resources to help them thrive in the classroom,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I encourage all families that qualify to apply for KEEP.”

KEEP funds may be used on various enrichment and educational activities, including:​

  • Day and overnight camps with academic-related curriculum such as music, arts, science, technology, agriculture, mathematics, and engineering
  • Curriculum and educational materials, including certain technological devices
  • Language classes
  • Musical instruments and lessons
  • Tutoring

The funds are not eligible for private school tuition.

Eligibility for KEEP funds is determined by financial need, and funds will be distributed to actively enrolled K-12 Kansas students between the ages of 5-18. Students whose household income is less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines are eligible.

Subject to funding availability, future waves of funding may be provided with expanded household income eligibility parameters.

Families can learn if they qualify, apply for the program, read the full handbook of rules and instructions, and browse the marketplace of qualified service providers at www.keep.ks.gov. Program participants will have access to a web and mobile app for using their awarded funds.

Earlier this year, businesses that offer educational opportunities and services were invited to join the KEEP Marketplace to assist students and families. Parents and guardians can now search for those opportunities across Kansas on the KEEP Marketplace. Parents and guardians may also submit requests for additional businesses to be added to the Marketplace if they know of a business that would qualify.

KEEP is being offered through a contract between Merit International, Inc. and the Kansas Office of Recovery to provide educational activities and learning opportunities to students across Kansas to promote educational learning recovery in response to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is funded with American Rescue Plan Act dollars approved through the SPARK process.

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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February 24, 2023

 

Removing Kansas Public Employee Retirement System (KPERS) 15% limit on alternative investments, Senate Bill (SB) 23, was scheduled for debate on the Senate floor.  Just before the bill was to be debated, it was pulled from the schedule because several of us questioned removing the limit.  We were told the bill was needed because current “alternative” investments are bumping the 15% limit and the KPERS Board would be forced to liquidate some investments at an inopportune time.  After more research, it was discovered that nothing requires liquidation or selling alternative investments at the 15% limit, but the Board is restricted from participating in additional alternate investments.

 

Gun Safety courses would be optional in public schools if SB 116 becomes law.  After a cordial debate, the bill passed the Senate 30 to 8.  I voted yes.

 

County Identifier on License Plates is the intent of SB 130.  It’s helpful to see the two character code identifying a Kansas county on license plates.  Custom plates and specialty plates have not been including the county ID.  SB 130 would require the county ID on these plates.  The county ID will help with people who have wrongly received a ticket or bill from the Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) because they have the same number on their license plate as someone from another county.  Many people like seeing the ID.  The bill passed the Senate 32 to 4.

 

Presidential Primary instead of Caucus is a bill that I requested.  Kansas has been holding party caucuses, instead of primary elections for President mainly because of cost.  National party conventions to nominate candidates for President are usually held in July, while Kansas primaries are in August.  Thus, party caucuses are used to decide Kansas nominees for President.  It would make sense to move the Kansas primary so that it could include candidates for President.  This would address the cost issue and allow primary winners more time between the primary and the general elections.

 

Property Tax Relief  Just a reminder about tax relief programs passed by the legislature last year.  The Secretary of Revenue is working on problems people have had using the forms to apply for these programs.  The link for the application for property tax relief for low income seniors and disabled veterans is posted at https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/k-40svr.pdf and the application for some property tax relief for businesses shut-down or negatively impacted by the Governor’s shutdown during COVID is at https://www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/Misc/PropTaxAssistance/StoreFront

 

You may also call KDOR at 785-368-8222 or e-mail [email protected] with questions about the programs and applications.

 

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

Government, Kansas

From the Land of Kansas 45th Anniversary Celebration

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MANHATTAN, Kansas —From the Land of Kansas, the state’s agricultural trademark program, is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2023. The program will kick off its celebration at the Kansas State Capitol on Tuesday, March 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Members of the From the Land of Kansas program will be offering samples of their products and showcasing their businesses.

The From the Land of Kansas program began in 1978 within the state’s agriculture agency, now the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and was designed to promote and celebrate agriculture experiences and products grown, raised or produced in Kansas. The program has grown to include 375 members and farmers’ markets. These businesses span the breadth of the agriculture industry, from restaurants, agriculture equipment manufacturers, retailers, farmers and ranchers, to food processors, agritourism, wineries, breweries and distilleries.

Basic membership of the state’s trademark program is free and additional benefits are tailored to support all types of businesses, new or established, and assist them with taking their business to the next level. The program’s website, FromtheLandofKansas.com, also provides a map to help consumers find Kansas businesses and farmers’ markets across the state.

“It’s been the best thing for our business,” said member Christina Blincoe with Sweet Streams Lavender Farm in Bucyrus, Kansas. “We have seen growth from the program every year consistently. We love having the logo on our website because it’s an automatic accreditation of our farm. We love the online store to share our products on the website.”

From the Land of Kansas also hosts an e-commerce website, shop.fromthelandofkansas.com, where members can sell their products online, reaching more customers across the state of Kansas and the U.S. In honor of the 45th anniversary, the program is offering a limited-edition classic shirt representing products grown, raised and produced in Kansas which can also be found at shop.fromthelandofkansas.com.

“I’m very passionate about helping farmers and Kansas businesses succeed and thrive in the agriculture industry,” said Sammy Gleason, marketing manager for From the Land of Kansas. “My dad is a fourth-generation Kansas farmer, which makes the From the Land of Kansas program something I hold close to my heart. I love serving our members, no matter the size of their business; they give me a purpose.”

For more information about the program and its members, visit FromtheLandofKansas.com or engage with the program through social media by following From the Land of Kansas on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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Airport, Fort Scott, Government, Kansas

Fort Scott Airport Receives Improvement Grant

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Governor Kelly Announces $11 Million

for 66 Airport Improvement Projects


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that 66 airport projects across the state have been selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for planning, constructing, or rehabilitating public-use general aviation airports.

“Whether it be airplane manufacturing, a link in the supply chain logistics, or travel, the Kansas aerospace industry is an essential part of our state’s economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These grants ensure the safety and longevity of Kansas airports, all while contributing to economic growth and job creation.”

The aviation industry represents over $20.6 billion in economic impact across a broad spectrum of supply chain and manufacturing industries in Kansas.

“Every mode of transportation is a link to the state’s economic vitality,” said Calvin Reed, Secretary of Transportation. “These airport improvements are a few of many important efforts to empower the aviation industry across Kansas.”

The KAIP typically receives $5 million annually through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) and requires airport sponsors to participate in project costs by paying a minimum of 5% of the total project. This year, the program awarded more than $11 million to 66 approved projects, with a total project value of nearly $14.4 million.

The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation received 153 applications seeking a combined total project value of more than $66 million for this round of KAIP grants. Projects were scored according to impact on flight safety, economic growth, and regional benefit.

“We’re grateful to satisfy 22% of the total airport improvements requested this year,” said Bob Brock, Director of the Division of Aviation, Kansas Department of Transportation. “We look forward to new and ongoing partnerships with aviation stakeholders to achieve stronger aviation infrastructure for the future.”

Approved 2023 Kansas Airport Improvement Program projects:

  • Allen County – Replace Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), $153,000; taxiway rehabilitation, $157,500
  • Amelia Earhart, City of Atchison– Construct automated gate, $42,075
  • Chanute – North apron reconstruction, $424,570; perimeter fencing, $180,000
  • Cheyenne County – Replace AWOS system, $153,000
  • Coffeyville – Crack seal and remark runway, $42,750 design, $229,500 construct
  • Colonel James Jabara, Wichita – Relocate/widen taxiway, $114,000 design, $800,160 construct
  • Comanche County – Preserve concrete runway, $19,000 design, $225,000 construct
  • Cook Airfield, Rose Hill – Used Jet A truck, $30,000; electric hose reel for MOGAS pump, $3,000; Parking ramp, $148,500; pavement repairs, $18,000
  • Jack Thomas Memorial, El Dorado – Replace fuel system, $10,800
  • Elkhart Morton County – Rehabilitate terminal building, $29,750
  • Fort Scott Municipal – Taxiway rehabilitation, $57,600
  • Gardner – Taxiway, $47,500 design, $99,000 construct
  • Garnett – Replace fuel system, $90,000; terminal rehabilitation, $15,300
  • Great Bend Municipal – Replace primary wind cone, $5,588
  • Harper Municipal – Replace fuel farm card reader, $21,250
  • Hays Regional – Pavement repair materials, $25,500; upgrade security and access gates, $21,250; ARFF station gate automation, $17,000
  • Hugoton Municipal – AWOS update, $5,700 design; $165,600 construct; fuel dispenser, $4,750 design, $40,950 construct
  • Hutchinson Regional – Install wildlife dig barrier for perimeter fence, $32,504
  • Independence Municipal – Airport rotating beacon/tower, $23,750 design, $112,500 construct
  • Johnson County Executive – Pavement maintenance materials, $13,600; southwest fence, $129,600; north fence, $156,150
  • Kinsley Municipal – Fuel farm card reader, $13,500
  • Lawrence Regional – Airport master plan update, $360,000; apron rehabilitation, $130,500 design, $800,000 construct; runway extension, $99,750 design
  • Lyons-Rice County Municipal – Fuel system. $23,750 design, $282,600 construct
  • Mark Hoard Memorial, Leoti – AWOS III, $163,764
  • Medicine Lodge – AWOS update, $5,700 design, $165,600 construct
  • Montezuma Municipal – Seal, patch, overlay and stripe runway, $792,700
  • Moundridge Municipal – Resurface runway, $720,000
  • New Century Air Center, Johnson County– Airfield electrical vault building, $89,300 design, $338,400 construct; rehabilitation of central portion of the west apron, $133,000 design, $800,000 construct; maintenance materials, $13,600
  • Norton Municipal – Replace and relocate AWOS, $153,000
  • Oakley Municipal – Replace rotating beacon and tower, $76,500
  • Pratt Regional – Apron and hangar area rehabilitation, $59,850 design, $653,400 construct
  • Shalz Field, Colby – Card station for self-serve fuel pumps, $16,200
  • Syracuse-Hamilton County – Replace fuel system, $66,500, design, $486,000 construct; replace AWOS, $121,500
  • Tribune Municipal – Remove telecom tower to mitigate runway obstruction, $72,000
  • Wamego Municipal – Airport development plan/master plan (phase II), $66,500; reconstruct apron and connecting taxiway, $468,000

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Entertainment, Government, Kansas

Kansas Attraction Development Grants Announced

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Kansas Tourism Announces $400,000 Available in Attraction Development Grants

TOPEKA – Kansas Tourism today announced the Attraction Development Grant program is open for applications. A total of $400,000 is available. Attraction Development Grants provide strategic economic assistance to public or private entities, or not-for-profit groups, that are developing new or enhancing existing tourism attraction in the state. The deadline for applications is March 31.

“The projects that we are looking for with these grants are those that will bring new visitors to Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Each person that visits our state also supports our economy, by eating at our restaurants, staying at our hotels and shopping at our stores. These Attraction Development Grants will help entice more people to choose Kansas for their next adventure.”

The goals of Attraction Development Grants include:

  • Spur economic growth
  • Develop destination-based assets
  • Increase visitation to Kansas
  • Enhance visitor experience
  • Improve the quality of life in communities across the state.

“Attraction Development Grants are one of the many tools we have to assist travel industry partners across the state,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “With world-renowned destinations, history rich communities and spectacular natural wonders, every corner of Kansas is a vital part of the state’s tourism economy. These grants support our attractions and increase visitation to and throughout Kansas.”

Grant dollars may fund up to 40 percent of a project, with the community or business funding the remaining 60 percent. For more information, including grant applications please visit https://www.travelks.com/travel-industry/programs-and-resources/grants/ or contact Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe at [email protected].

Funding for Kansas Tourism grants, including the Tourism Marketing Grant, is provided by the Economic Development Initiatives Fund (EDIF) that is derived from state lottery proceeds.

About the Kansas Tourism Division:

The mission of the Kansas Tourism Division is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce and works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination. Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, approves tourist signage applications, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education, and support. 

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas in 2021 was awarded Site Selection Magazine’s Governor’s Cup award, Area Development Magazine’s Gold Shovel award for two years in a row and was named Site Selection Magazine’s Best Business Climate in the West North Central region of the United States. Find the Department’s strategic plan for economic growth here: Kansas Framework for Growth.

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