Category Archives: Government

Governor Kelly Releases Statement on Attorney General’s Call for Special Session


TOPEKA
– Today, Governor Laura Kelly issued the statement below in response to Attorney General Kobach calling on the Kansas Legislature to convene a special legislative session.

“Republican legislative leaders’ efforts to call a special session for mid-decade redistricting have so far proven to be unpopular. And rightfully so, as Kansans know this is neither the right approach nor the right time. Now, Attorney General Kobach is manufacturing false urgency to apply pressure to legislators who have not committed to supporting a special session for redistricting purposes. If need be, this issue could easily be addressed when legislators are routinely scheduled to be in session rather than wasting more than $100,000 in taxpayer dollars. This is simply more political theater.”

Arts Commission Opens Nominations for 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards

Kansas Arts Commission Opens Nominations for 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards

TOPEKA – The Department of Commerce today announced the Kansas Art Commission (KAC) now is accepting nominations for the 2026 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards. Nominations for these prestigious honors will be accepted through October 31.

The Governor’s Arts Awards recognize and celebrate individuals, organizations and communities for their outstanding contributions and leadership in advancing the arts in Kansas.

“The arts and related creative businesses are a critical part of driving prosperity in our communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These awards are just one way we show our appreciation and gratitude to the many art leaders who continue to enhance the quality of life throughout Kansas and help power our state economy.”

After a 14-year pause, the statewide awards returned in 2025, and 17 artists were awarded for their work. The most prestigious, The Governor’s Award, went to Kansas native and acclaimed musician Melissa Etheridge.

An awards ceremony will be held in Topeka next spring to recognize art excellence in areas such as advocacy, arts education, community engagement and artistic achievement.

Award categories include:

  • Arts Advocate of the Year
  • Arts Community of the Year
  • Arts Leader of the Year
  • Arts Organization of the Year
  • Arts Patron of the Year
  • Emerging Arts Leader of the Year
  • Emerging Arts Organization of the Year
  • Excellence in Arts Education
  • Excellence in the Arts in Business
  • Excellence in Public Service in the Arts
  • Kansas Arts Legacy Award
  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement

“The Governor’s Arts Awards are meant to be more than a moment of recognition,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “This event celebrates the vital role arts and culture play in enriching our communities — and we are proud to spotlight the incredible talent that is breathing new life into Kansas.”

For more information or to submit a nomination, visit 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, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC):

The Kansas Arts Commission stewards the state’s investment in the arts by empowering creativity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economy to enhance the vitality of every Kansas community. The Kansas Arts Commission is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To learn more about KAC, click here or contact Ben Stanton at [email protected] or (785) 213-5959.

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Congressman Derek Schmidt Newsletter

Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

 

A federal government shutdown began at midnight on Wednesday, October 1, after funding authorization for the federal government expired. Two weeks ago, the House passed a bipartisan bill to keep the government funded through November 21, while work continues on the full-year appropriations bills. Regrettably, Senate Democrats are insisting on the inclusion of a $1.5 trillion wish list of additional reckless spending instead of passing the House’s clean continuing resolution. This shutdown is entirely the result of those unreasonable demands.

Read on below for more information on some of the most common topics we are getting questions about related to the shutdown.

My Offices

My team and I will be working throughout this period — and my offices in Washington, Topeka and Pittsburg will remain open! This year, we have responded to tens of thousands of messages, emails, and phone calls, and we will continue to be available to listen to your comments and concerns. We have also helped Kansans reclaim hundreds of thousands of dollars owed to them by federal agencies including the VA, Social Security, and the IRS.

 

Our ability to help with some of these situations may be affected, as many departments and agencies will not be processing casework during its duration. However, that work will resume once federal funding is resolved. If you are experiencing an issue with a federal agency, please call my office at (785) 205-5253 or fill out the form on our website, and we will work with you on the paperwork that must be completed so we can file your case as soon as we are able.

 

My team and I will not be able to process flag orders at this time, and tours of the United States Capitol will be limited. If you are traveling to D.C., my office will be open to visitors, so please stop by and say hello!

Social Security

If you are a Social Security recipient, you will receive your Social Security payment. However, if you are waiting for benefit verifications or disability claims, you may experience a delay in having those processed.

Medicare and Medicaid

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services programs will continue to operate as normal during the shutdown.

Veterans Affairs

All VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers will be open. VA benefits, including compensation, pension education, and housing benefits will continue to be processed. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals will also continue to operate normally. The VA Contact Center will remain open and can be reached at 1-800-MyVA411. The Veterans Crisis Center is also available 24/7 to help veterans who call 988.

 

Unfortunately, some VA services will be impacted by the shutdown. Regional benefits offices will be closed, along with the GI Bill hotline, and career counseling.

U.S. Postal Service

U.S. Postal Service will not be interrupted. All Post Offices remain open as usual.

Transportation Security Administration 

The Transportation Security Administration will continue to operate. However, there may be longer wait times than usual. If you have a flight planned, consider arriving at the airport earlier to ensure you get through security in a timely manner.

Passports

Current processing time for routine passport applications is 4-6 weeks. The shutdown may lead to longer delays. If you plan to travel internationally and you need to renew your passport or get a new passport, it is recommend that you begin the process as soon as possible.

 

If you are currently abroad, U.S. consular services will still be provided.

Visiting with Kansans

Last week, prior to the shutdown, I was honored to participate in a roundtable with State Farm agents in Topeka. I appreciated the opportunity to hear from them about federal issues affecting the insurance industry and policyholders and to learn what they’re hearing in their communities.

I had the pleasure of giving constituents from Coffey County a Capitol tour on Thursday. The Capitol Visitors Center may be closed, but I am always happy to show Kansans around the nation’s Capitol!

As always, my office is here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Be sure to also follow me on social media at the links below for timely updates from my office.

 

It’s an incredible honor to represent our Second Congressional District in Congress!

Sincerely,

Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress

Washington D.C. Office
1223 Longworth

House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Topeka Office

3550 SW 5th St.

Suite B

Topeka, KS 66606

Pittsburg Office

402 North Broadway St.

Suite B

Pittsburg, KS  66762

U.S. Senator Marshall Newsletter

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Senator Marshall: The Number One Motivation to Shut the Gov’t Down is Trump Derangement Syndrome

Yesterday, I delivered lengthy remarks on the floor of the U.S. Senate, where I directly called out Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for bending the knee to the radical left-wing elements of the Democrat Party, and for the Democrat Party’s insistence on playing hypocritical games with America’s healthcare system.

In my remarks, I said, “It is just beyond me for the leader of the Democrat party to set up here and cry about hospitals closing in rural America today and blaming Republicans. If there’s any hospital closing today, tomorrow, or next year, the Democrats own it. They own the failed policy, and America gets that. My gosh, I never heard something so ridiculous in my life.

“But again, Republicans have solutions, and we want to fix it. One of the ways to fix… why these hospitals are failing is the economy. Rural hospitals are a reflection of the local economy. As agriculture goes, so goes rural America, so go these hospitals.

“And by the way, 97% of these rural counties voted for President Trump. He’s never going to turn his back on them. We, as Republicans, are not going to turn our backs on them. I wake up every morning trying to figure out how do we save rural hospitals and rural America? How do we recruit doctors to rural America? How do we recruit nurses to rural America?

“And all of a sudden, the Democrats have got salvation here, and they care about it. No, they’re hiding behind that issue. They are hiding behind it because they don’t have any substance to stand on.”
Click HERE or on the image below to watch my speech or read my remarks in full.

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Senator Marshall: Chuck Schumer is Afraid That AOC Will Primary Him

As you can no doubt guess, the biggest story this week is the government shutdown, and I had a very busy week speaking to CNN, Newsmax, NewsNation, Bloomberg, and Fox News about the ongoing budget battle with Senate Democrats, why Chuck Schumer is choosing to shut down the government, and what the off-ramp from the shutdown might be. Additional topics of discussion included the announcement from the White House to lower drug prices and how to improve rural healthcare in America.
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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Bloomberg.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with CNN.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with CNN.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Fox News.

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Click HERE or on the image above to listen to my full interview on Fox Radio.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Newsmax.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Newsmax.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Newsmax.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with NewsNation.

Senators Marshall & Reed Introduce Legislation to Increase Cancer Screening Options for Rural Communities

As a doctor of over 25 years in rural America, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that those who live far from major medical centers or regional hospitals face. It’s my deeply held belief that the geography of where a patient is shouldn’t determine whether they can get screened for deadly cancers, nor should it harm their life expectancy or health outcomes.

Those living in rural communities – like so many folks in Kansas do – deserve the same access to life-saving preventative care as any other American.

That’s why I am proud to introduce the Mobile Cancer Screening Act. This legislation will establish a federal grant program for hospitals and healthcare centers to increase the availability of detection services in rural and underserved communities.

With these funds, providers can purchase mobile screening units, bringing potentially life-saving screening to the doorsteps of patients who are affected by a lack of transportation or long travel distances to clinics.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Announces Grant for Revitalization of Junction City Main Street

Junction City – home to Fort Riley and the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division, also known as The Big Red One – has reason to celebrate. I am pleased to announce technical assistance and agency resources for Junction City Main Street and its community partners to begin the process of revitalizing its downtown and connecting the community with its neighboring reservoir, rivers, and prairie.

As an avid outdoorsman, I applaud these efforts. Junction City has an incredible opportunity to capitalize on its proximity to the many nearby natural resources, which will provide greater opportunities for residents, tourists, and Fort Riley soldiers and their families to experience our state’s diverse outdoor recreation opportunities.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Introduces Legislation to Restore Sanity to our Passport System

Passports play a critical role in safeguarding our national security by confirming the true identity of individuals leaving and returning to the U.S., which is why they must reflect factual, biological reality.

That’s why this week I introduced the Passport Sanity Act, a bill to support President Trump and Secretary Rubio’s efforts to ground passports and other State Department documents in biological reality.

Congress should act quickly to enshrine this critical legislation into law, reinforcing the common-sense approach championed by President Trump and Secretary Rubio.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Delivers Remarks During Gold Star Family Weekend at Fort Riley

Lastly, as I mentioned during last week’s newsletter, I addressed a gathering of Gold Star Families at Fort Riley for the dedication of the base’s new Gold Star Family Memorial. The video from that speech is now available to view below.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full remarks.


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Fox News:
Sen. Roger Marshall says Democrats ‘aren’t being reasonable amid threat of government shutdown.

The Hill: GOP senator on Trump AI video: ‘I think it’s said in jest’.

JC Post: Kansas U.S. Senator’s statement on government shutdown fight.

Newsmax: Sen. Marshall to Newsmax: Senate Won’t Hit 60 Votes on Wednesday.

KOAM: Kansas Senators introduce mobile cancer screening legislation.

KCLY: Senator Marshall Speaks at Fort Riley During Gold Star Family Weekend.

The Daily Wire: Republican Senator Moves To End ‘Gender Neutral’ Passports, Restore ‘Sanity’ To International Travel.

KNS: Senators Moran and Marshall Ask U.S. Senate to Honor Fallen Hays Police Officer.

KCUR: Kansas could get its second nuclear power plant — this time with a new, advanced design.

AgriPulse: Rollins rules out cattle payments, takes on agribusiness.

Newsmax: Sen. Marshall to Newsmax: TrumpRx Is Going to Drive Down Drug Prices.

Fox Radio: Democrats Feeling The Heat As The Shutdown Continues.

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Epoch Times:
Trump Authorizes Troop Deployment to Portland, Vows ‘Full Force’ Response to Domestic Terrorists.

Newsmax: Immigration Crackdown Drives Drop in Federal Drug Cases.

KCUR: A rural Kansas community banded together to save their only grocery store and ‘way of life’.

The Guardian: Donald Trump addresses military leaders as Pete Hegseth declares war on diversity efforts – US politics live.

Fox Business: Walmart eliminating synthetic dyes from its private-label food brands.

NBC: Trump announces deal with Pfizer to lower drug prices, including ‘TrumpRx’ website.

KSNT: Kansas harvest season slowed by abnormally wet conditions.

Hastings Tribune: Kansas officials crack down on ‘brazen’ sales of marijuana and THC products with statewide raids.

Fox Business: August and September bring in $62.6B in tariff revenue.

Newsmax: Energy Dept. Axes 223 Biden-Era ‘Green New Scam’ Projects, Saves $7.5 Billion.

Fox News: Government shutdown enters 3rd day as Senate stalemate over Obamacare subsidies drags on.

Fox News: Trump admin tells Congress it determined US engaged in formal ‘armed conflict’ with ‘terrorist’ drug cartels.

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Wall Street Closed until 5:30 P.M. Today

Due to the unveiling of the new Gordon Parks mural on the Sunshine Boutique Building at 4:15pm this afternoon, Wall street from Scott Avenue to Main Street and National Avenue to Main Street will be closed to traffic.

Alleys in this vicinity will also be closed.

Closures will be from 3:30pm to 5:30pm to allow for set-up, ceremony, and tear down.

All citizens are invited to this ceremony and unveiling.

Thank you for understanding and your cooperation.

 

 

Brad Matkin

City Manager

City of Fort Scott

Kansas Water Authority Meet in Overland Park 

Kansas Water Authority Meeting in Overland Park

October 15, Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center

The Kansas Water Authority (KWA) will meet Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center in the 2/3 Event Space located at 8788 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m.

For additional meeting information and the online meeting link, visit the Kansas Water Office website calendar at kwo.ks.gov or call (785) 296-3185.

The KWA is responsible for advising the Governor, Legislature and Director of the Kansas Water Office on water policy issues. They also ensure that water policies and programs address the needs of all Kansans as well as serve as advisors of the Kansas Water Plan. The KWA was established in 1981 and consists of 13 voting members who are appointed by the Governor or Legislative leadership. State agency directors serve as ex-officio members.

If accommodations are needed for a person with disabilities, please notify the Kansas Water Office at 900 SW Jackson Street, Suite 404, Topeka, KS 66611-1249 or call (785) 296-3185 at least five working days prior to the meeting.

Note to Editor: The Americans with Disabilities Act, (42 U.S.C. 12101), requires the Kansas Water Office to print the reasonable accommodations messages.

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As the state’s water office, KWO conducts water planning, policy coordination and water marketing as well as facilitates public input throughout the state.

The agency prepares the KANSAS WATER PLAN, a plan for water resources development, management and conservation. KWO in coordination with the KWA also reviews all water laws and makes recommendations to the Governor and Legislature for needed legislation.

 

Agenda for the FS City Commission for Oct. 7

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
October 7, 2025 – 6:00 P.M.

I. Call to Order/Roll Call
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Invocation
IV. Approval of Agenda
V. Proclamation – Domestic Violence Awareness Month – Alyssa Hess/Safehouse Crisis Center, Pittsburg, KS
VI. Consent Agenda
A. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1393-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of September 10, 2025 – September 30, 2025- $ 1,165,099.60
B. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of September 16, 2025, and Special Meeting of September 23, 2025
C. Request for Payment – Mainstreet Asphalt Maintenance LLC – Milling of Lees Circle
Drive and Crescent Drive – $66,400.00

VII. Public Comment
VIII. Appearances
A. Lindsay Hill – FRAME Grant – Request for assistance with infrastructure and
surveying of property
B. Rachel Carpenter – Temporary Park Closure – Riverfront Park – Haunting of Belltown
– October 31, 2025 – 6:00PM through November 1, 2025 – 11:00PM
C. Dave Bruner/FSFD – Acceptance of AFG Grant/Exhaust Removal System and proceed with bid process and project completion
D. Jason Pickert/FSPD – TUSA Radio Encryption System – Phase I – Assessment
E. Trey Sharp/Good Ol Days – Food Trucks

IX. Unfinished Business
A. Consideration of Small Business Grant Applications – The After Affect Salon/Shelly Bradley, Hercules Hobby/Phil Jackson, H. Witt Fabrication LLC/Henry Witt, and Clifton Chiropractic/Kaylee Clifton
B. Consideration of Second Amendment to ER Funding Agreement – Approved by Bourbon County Commission September 8, 2025 – Tabled September 16, 2025 C. Consideration to adopt Land Lease Agreement – Tabled from September 16, 2025 D. Discussion of Food Truck Ordinance – Tabled from September 16, 2025

 

X. New Business
Action Items:
A. Consideration of Bids – Replacement of A/C Unit above weight room – Buck Run
B. Consideration of Resolution No. 28-2025 A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 308 N. MINERAL – L. Kruger
C. Consideration of Resolution No. 29-2025 A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 1815 E. OAK – L. Kruger
D. Consideration of Resolution No. 30-2025 A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 1626 E. PINE – L. Kruger
E. Consideration of Resolution No. 31-2025 A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT1403 E. OAK – L. Kruger
F. Consideration of Resolution No. 32-2025 A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 505 S. COUCH – L. Kruger
G. Consideration of Engineering for Repair to Waterway System – Agricultural Engineering Associates (AEA) – $36,000.00
H. Consideration of Monthly Fee Adjustment – BakerTilly Municipal Advisors
I. Consideration of Contract for Real Estate Sale – Shoemaker and City of Fort Scott
J. Consideration of Shipping Container Ordinance – K. Salsbury
K. Cape Seal 2026-2027 Program
L. Discussion of November 4th City Commission Meeting – Election night
M. Discussion of ADM

XI. Reports and Comments

XII. Adjourn

 

 

 

 

FS Preschool Center Trunk or Treat is Oct. 30: Resource Providers Invited

On behalf of the USD 234 School District, we would like to invite you to the 2025 Early Childhood Trunk-or-Treat.  This year’s event will be held on Thursday, October 30 from 4:30-6:00 PM at the Fort Scott Preschool Center Gym.  All children ages birth through six years old and their families are invited to attend. Last year, school staff and community partners were able to connect with 225 children and their families at our Trunk-or-Treat.

If you are a family resource provider or a community partner, we invite you to attend and set up a table from which children can trick-or-treat.  Agencies typically pass out snacks, candy, trinkets, small prizes, etc.  During this time, you may also provide brochures, resources, and/or helpful information related to your program.  Our goal is to inform families about the resources available in our community.  If you are a preschool or childcare provider, please share the attached flyer with your families.  We also welcome you to set up a table for your program.

If you plan to attend our event, please complete the form below by Friday, October 17th so we can have a table reserved for your organization.

KS Tax Collections Below Estimate For September

September Total Tax Collections at $1.00 Billion; 0.3% Below Estimate


TOPEKA
– The State of Kansas ends September 2025 with total tax collections at $1.00 billion. That is $3.4 million, or 0.3%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 1.9% from September 2024.

“I have been consistent in expressing concern that the reckless budgets passed by the state legislature risk veering us off the course of fiscal responsibility,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While one month of revenues missing the estimate is not cause for panic, it is a reminder that fiscal restraint is sound policy.”

Even though individual income tax collections were above estimates, they are offset by a significant 15% loss in corporate income. Individual income tax collections were $481.4 million. That is $26.4 million, or 5.8% above the estimate. Individual income tax collections were up 2.8% from September 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $199.6 million. That is $35.4 million, or 15.0% below the estimate, and down 12.5% from September 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $293.3 million, which is $5.3 million, or 1.8% above the estimate, and down 1.1% from September 2024.

Click here to view the September 2025 revenue numbers.

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KS Commerce Announces $23M in Funding Available for Broadband Investments

Commerce Announces $23M in Funding Available for Broadband Investments

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $23 million is available to improve broadband infrastructure through the Broadband Acceleration Grant (BAG) program. Grants up to $1 million will be awarded to offset the capital expenses providers need to deploy service in unserved areas of Kansas.

In its fifth year through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant program aims to provide high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing unserved areas, economically distressed communities and areas of compelling need.

“Ensuring that every Kansan has access to high-speed internet is not just about connectivity — it’s about economic mobility and community growth,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These grants provide long-term, sustainable benefits by fostering innovation, attracting businesses, and supporting and retaining the workforce across the state.”

During the first four years of this program, high-speed internet has been delivered to more than 11,000 homes and businesses in 35 counties. The cumulative $25 million generated another $31 million in matching funds.

“The Broadband Acceleration Grant program is an important part of KDOT’s commitment to modernizing Kansas’ infrastructure,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “Just as transportation infrastructure connects communities to opportunity, reliable broadband access is essential to building a stronger, more connected Kansas.”

Broadband enables small businesses to grow, agriculture to be more efficient, families to connect and communities to prosper.

“By continuing to invest in broadband we are not just investing in critical infrastructure, we are investing in the future of every Kansan,” Director of Broadband Development Bill Abston said. “The Broadband Acceleration Grant program is a critical tool to ensuring that all Kansans, no matter where they live, can access their high-speed digital future.”

The grant application period will run from 3 p.m. Friday, October 3, to 3 p.m. Friday, October 31. The Office of Broadband Development has scheduled a kickoff webinar at 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 3. To register for the webinar, click here. For more information about the program or to apply for the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program, click 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, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About the Kansas Office of Broadband Development:

Established in 2020 by Governor Laura Kelly through Executive Order, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) is committed to ensuring all Kansans have the opportunity to live, work, learn and compete in a digital economy. KOBD accomplishes this by administering state and federal funding to support critical broadband infrastructure and expand access to high-speed internet. These efforts help enhance workforce readiness, education, digital opportunities and economic development across the state.

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Revised Bo Co Commission Agenda for Sept. 29

BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.

Map Qt_Bourbon_Bridge 19.2-Q.0

1302 Project Programming Request

I. Call Meeting to Order
 Roll Call
 Pledge of Allegiance
 Prayer
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Consent Agenda
 Approval of 09.19.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $250,084.75
 Approval August Financials
IV. Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
V. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
VI. Old Business
 Budget Discussion
 Roads Discussion
i. Lynne Oharah – 95th & Unique
ii. North Crawford Street
iii. Eagle Road
iv. 190th Street Benefit District
 CIC Access – Milburn
 Elevator – Milburn
 108 W 2nd – Milburn
 Crawkan – Milburn
 Planning Commission announce terms – Beerbower
 Resolution Review – Beerbower
i. Commission Meetings & Commissioner Conduct
VII. New Business
 Credit App for Enterprise – Bill Martin
 Resolution – Law Enforcement
 Motion to move normal meeting from the 13th of October to the 14th
VIII. Department Updates
 Public Works – Kenny Allen and Dustin Hall
i. KDOT Grant – Bridge 19.2-Q.0
ii. Transfer of Thomas Quarry
IX. Build Agenda for following meeting
X. Commission Comments
XI. Adjournment _____________
FUTURE 10/6/2025 10/14/2025 10/20/2025 10/27/2025
Vehicle Lease Program Credit Cards – Milburn Culverts Bitcoin Mining
Economic Development Gov. Deals – Beerbower 2025 Tri-Valley Agreement Noise Resolution
Juvenile Detention Contract Road Closure 140th Moratorium
Sanitation Worksession
Benefits Committee Letters
Elm Creek Quarry
Phone System
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to
protect their privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether
or not in consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of
corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of
such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.

KCC approves unanimous settlement agreement in Evergy rate case

TOPEKA – This morning, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) approved a unanimous settlement agreement allowing Evergy to increase its rates by $128 million to recover investments made to replace aging equipment and increase the resiliency and reliability of the power grid.  Evergy requested an increase of $196.4 million in its application filed in January. The settlement agreement was reached after extensive negotiations between KCC staff, the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board, Evergy, and many other intervenors representing industrial and commercial customers as well as school districts.

The new rates will take effect beginning with the October billing cycle. Residential customers with average monthly usage (900 kWh), will see an increase of approximately $8.47 per month. Based on an independent review of evidence in the record, the Commission found that the agreed upon rates will provide Evergy with sufficient revenues to meet its financial obligations yet will keep rates as low as possible while maintaining reliable service for its customers.

Commissioner Dwight D. Keen filed a partial dissenting opinion on today’s order. He objects to the Commission’s decision to grant a 9.7% Return on Equity (ROE) for transmission delivery charges (TDC), which covers costs associated with building and maintaining the transmission system. TDC charges are not included in base rates but are passed through to ratepayers as a separate surcharge on their monthly bill. Keen states the approved ROE is excessive and may present ongoing affordability issues for ratepayers.

Today’s order is available here.

View the Unanimous Settlement Agreement.

A recording of today’s Business Meeting featuring comments by Commissioners, is available on the KCC YouTube channel.

 

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