Category Archives: Government

Inclement weather possible: KDOT crews stand ready

Early weather forecasts from different weather services are showing the possibility of inclement weather affecting parts of Kansas as well as several northern and western states this holiday weekend.

If inclement weather does impact the highways, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is ready to treat roadways as needed. KDOT employees have been preparing since September: Salt, sand and brine materials have been ordered, trucks and other equipment have undergone preventive maintenance and crews have completed training courses.

“Whatever the obstacle, KDOT crew members work together and find a way to get the job done,” said Director of Field Operations Ron Hall. “Our crews always do their best to serve the public in their efforts to clear the highways.”

Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed shared a reminder for all travelers: “Check on road conditions and weather forecasts in advance and possibly delay travel plans. It’s important to stay informed, plan ahead and travel safe.”

Resources and safety reminders for motorists:

  • Road conditions: Before traveling, check KanDrive.gov, KDOT’s road condition website, which is available 24/7 and provides camera views to see current conditions. Travelers can also download the KanDrive app in the App Store or Google Play.
  • Keep an eye on forecasts: Forecasts will change up to and throughout the holiday weekend. Check weather sources for updated forecasts.
  • Emergency kit: Motorists are reminded to travel with a stocked emergency kit in their vehicle.
  • Emergency contacts: Travelers who are stranded or need assistance can call the Kansas Highway Patrol dispatch at *47 or the Kansas Turnpike Authority at *KTA if using the turnpike. If it’s an emergency, call 911.

Kansas maintains about 9,500 miles of highways, including more than 25,000 total lane and ramp miles. Clearing snow from these highways takes time, especially while the snow is still falling.

Secretary Reed emphasized the importance of safety for the crews working to keep roads open.

“KDOT employees work challenging 12-hour shifts to remove snow and ice from the highways,” said Secretary Reed. “Don’t drive in their blind spots and give them space to work so they can focus on the job.”

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Judicial branch launches new district court public records search tool

Judicial branch launches new district court public records search tool
TOPEKA—The Kansas judicial branch has launched a new tool to search public district court records, and it will replace the current Kansas District Court Public Access Portal.

 

The new tool, CaseSearch, allows visitors to search public district court case information and documents online. It is active now, as is the Kansas District Court Public Access Portal it will replace. Both will remain active until next week, after which only CaseSearch will be available.

 

This change does not affect the Kansas Appellate Courts Public Access Portal.

 

Building from centralized case management

 

Amy Raymond, chief of district court operations and research, said CaseSearch was built in house to deliver on the opportunity to enhance how search works and the information it displays.

 

“Since completing the project to move all district courts to a centralized case management system, we’ve been alert for ways to harness greater benefit from this new technology,” Raymond said. “Rather than use an out-of-the-box solution, our case management team and developers built CaseSearch to pull data from the case management system to more effectively answer searchers’ information needs.”

 

Among the enhancements are more search types, a filter to search within case events, and more data in the financial details. The enhancements are responsive to feedback shared with the judicial branch during implementation of the centralized case management system in district courts, which is when case searches were first offered through the Kansas District Court Public Access Portal.

 

Another change involves using the identity verification tool ID.me for people who are approved to have expanded access to case information. Attorneys and justice system partners described in Supreme Court Rule 25 and in a temporary rule adopted by Administrative Order 2025-RL-139 are eligible for expanded access to case information.

 

Some public records only at courthouse

 

Public district court records are both case data and case documents. What is available through CaseSearch is described in Supreme Court Rule 22: Access to Public Electronic District Court Case Records.

 

Public records not available through CaseSearch are available at the courthouse using a courthouse terminal. Each district court has a computer reserved for public searches of court cases and court records.

 

Sealed cases and sealed records are not public and are not available through either CaseSearch or a courthouse terminal.

Kansas Judicial Branch

Office of Judicial Administration

301 SW 10th Avenue

Topeka, KS 66612-1507

785-296-2256

kscourts.gov

 

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U.S. Senator Roger Marshall Newsletter

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Senator Marshall: Happy Thanksgiving From My Family to Yours!

As we celebrate Thanksgiving tomorrow, families across Kansas will come together to enjoy delicious food, the company of loved ones, and hopefully watch our Chiefs beat the Dallas Cowboys.

Thanksgiving gives us a moment to pause and reflect on what we’re grateful for. If your family is like mine, you probably take a minute to go around the table and share what you’re most thankful for.

I’m thankful for my beautiful family, my faith, and the privilege of serving you in the Senate. My family and I never take that honor for granted, and every day I’m reminded what a blessing it is to stand up for you and represent Kansas.

So, from my family – and all of my staff in Washington and Kansas – to you and yours: Happy Thanksgiving!

Psalm 107:1 – “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!”

Click HERE to sign up for my newsletter!

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Topeka
800 SW Jackson Street, Suite 600
Topeka, KS 66612
Phone: 785-414-7501
Overland Park
7011 W. 121st Street, Suite 100
Overland Park, KS 66209
Phone: 913-879-7070
Pittsburg
402B North Broadway
Pittsburg, KS 66762
Phone: 620-404-7016
Salina
204 S. Santa Fe Avenue, Suite 1
Salina, KS 67401
Phone: 785-829-9000
Garden City
921 Lareu Street, Suite C Garden City, KS 67846
Phone: 620-765-7800
Wichita
100 S. Market, Suite 102 Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: 316-803-6120
Kansas City
400 State Avenue
Suite 1006
Kansas City, Kansas 66101
Phone: 913-549-1570
Washington D.C.
Russell Senate Office Building Suite 479A
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-4774

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Bourbon County Commission Agenda Packet for December 1

BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
Monday, December 01, 2025, 5:30 PM

To  view the entire packet:

12.1.25 Agenda

I. Call Meeting to Order
 Roll Call
 Pledge of Allegiance
 Prayer
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approval of Minutes (unofficial until approved) 11.17.25 & 11.18.25
IV. St. Luke’s Award – EMS
V. Consent Agenda
 Approval of 11.21.25 Accounts Payable (sent 11.21.25) $93,276.25
 Approval of 11.26.25 Accounts Payable (sent 11.26.25) & Payroll (sent 11.25.25) $327,304.73
VI. Executive session pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected
personnel to protect their privacy – Jennifer Hawkins
VII. Public Comments
VIII. Old Business
 Sale Tax – Susan Walker
 2026 Benefits – Susan Walker
 HSA
 FSA
 COBRA
 Longevity – Susan Walker
 Lines of Communication – Susan Walker
 Road Closure Application – Patricia Daniels
 Schwab-Eaton Engineering Services Agreement – Dustin Hall/Kenny Allen
 190th Street Benefit District – Johnson
 Sanitation Discussion – Beerbower
 Handbook Discussion – Tran
 BBCO Planning Commission Moratorium
IX. New Business
X. Build Agenda for following meeting
XI. Commission Comments
XII. Adjournment _____________

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall’s Newsletter

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Senator Marshall: We Will Have a Healthcare Bill Ready the First Week of December

The Republican plan to reform our broken healthcare system was the focus of my interviews with Newsmax and Washington Watch with Tony Perkins this week. During our conversations, we discussed how to make healthcare affordable and transparent again, when we can expect a vote on this legislation, how we’re going to use the Hyde Amendment to keep abortion funding out of future healthcare spending, and the Senate vote on the Epstein Files resolution.

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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 Tony Perkins.

Senator Marshall Bill to Restore Whole Milk in Schools Passes the Senate

After years of fighting to get it across the finish line, the Senate passed my Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which expands healthy milk options in schools by reversing the Obama-era law that took whole milk out of school cafeterias.

This is a common-sense fix to a problem that never existed. For whatever reason, the federal government took the most nutritious drink known to mankind out of our schools over a decade ago – robbing an entire generation of essential dairy intake.

I’m proud to see another win on the MAHA agenda cross the finish line in the Senate and am looking forward to seeing it signed into law.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Tours Wilson Elementary School

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of meeting with United School District (USD) 457 leadership, students, and nutrition services staff during a tour of Wilson Elementary School in Garden City. During the stop, I spoke with USD 457 leadership about their school meal programs and how my Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act will help make those meals more nutritious for all students.

In addition to that legislation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has also provided funding to help school districts purchase items from local producers, giving students more access to healthy fruits and vegetables, reflecting the Trump Administration’s focus on ensuring our children have access to nutritious food at school.Image

Senator Marshall eats lunch with students at Wilson Elementary School in Garden City.

Senator Marshall Applauds Trump Admin for Returning Education to the States

This week, the U.S. Department of Education announced six new interagency agreements with four agencies to break up the federal education bureaucracy, ensuring efficient future delivery of funded programs and activities, and moving us closer to fulfilling President Trump’s promise to return education to the states.

I applaud Secretary of Education Linda McMahon for this effort – I believe education is the great equalizer, but unfortunately, the status quo is not working, and outcomes for our children are slipping. By moving certain programs to agencies better aligned with their mission, we can finally deliver real results and better serve our children and students in Kansas.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall: Insurance Companies Wrote Obamacare

This week, during a Senate Finance Committee Hearing focused on meaningful solutions to the rising cost of health care, I had the chance to question witnesses, including Douglas Holtz-Eakin, Ph.D., President of American Action Forum, Jason Levitis, Senior Health Policy Fellow at Urban Institute, Brian Blasé, Ph.D., President of Paragon Health Institute, and Bartley Armitage.

During my opening remarks, I said, “Here we are 15 years later, and we understand that Obamacare has been an abstract failure. You know, I say this because your premiums alone, going up 200% in many cases. No one can argue that the ACA has led to premium increase. I draw attention specifically going from 2020 to 2025. You know, it just takes off. The premiums take off. Well, why, we started adding in these enhanced Biden subsidies as well? And the insurance companies jacked up their premiums to go along with that.”

“And then I think the other thing to point out is that just because you have Obamacare doesn’t mean you have access to care. If you’re a single person with a deductible of $5,000, if you’re a family of four with a deductible of almost $15,000, and you’re making less than 400% of [the] poverty level, there’s no way that that’s access to care.”
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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full exchange.

Senators Marshall & Cassidy Unveil Bill to Boost Hiring for Americans Facing Barriers to Work

For hardworking Americans who’ve faced real obstacles entering the workforce and pursuing their American Dream, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) has long been a vital lifeline. The WOTC helps employers invest in staffing, training, wages, and benefits to hire individuals from specific groups that face statistically higher barriers to employment, including veterans, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, and other vulnerable groups.

That’s why this week I was proud to join Senator Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) in reintroducing the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act, which will modernize and expand the tax credit to include military spouses as a new eligible group and extend it through 2030.

Through this action, we’re giving more people a fair chance at meaningful work and the independence that comes with it.

Click here to learn more.

Senators Marshall & Warnock Introduce Resolution Celebrating First-Generation College Students

Last week, I joined Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia) in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating November 8, 2025, as “National First-Generation College Celebration Day.” November 8 is the anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

I am a first-generation college student, and my experience there taught me that for those with the grit and willingness to seize them, America offers incredible opportunities. Recognizing others like me on National First-Generation College Celebration Day allowed us to celebrate the first-generation students who are blazing new trails, embracing big dreams, and proving what’s possible.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Sounds Alarm on Netflix–Warner Bros. Merger

Lastly, this week I sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) raising serious antitrust concerns over reports that Netflix is considering acquiring all or part of Warner Bros. Discovery.

I believe such a deal would create one of the largest content consolidations in modern media history – hurting consumers, workers, and competition across the entertainment marketplace.

In my letter to the DOJ and the FTC, I wrote:

“Such a transaction would constitute a major vertical and horizontal consolidation in a sector that is already marked by limited competition. If Netflix reached a deal to acquire Warner Bros., it would raise significant antitrust questions that warrant especially rigorous review.”

“As the market currently stands, Netflix holds a dominant position in the global streaming marketplace — boasting more than 300 million subscribers and exercising substantial control over both distribution and content. Acquiring HBO Max and Warner Bros.’ extensive library of premium programming would further expand this dominance across multiple markets.”

“Simply put, a deal of this scale risks diminishing competitive pressure, enabling Netflix to raise prices, restrict output, and reduce the variety of content available to consumers. The likely result would be fewer films produced, curtailed theatrical windows, and reduced investment in large-scale productions.”

“Given the outsized influence that the entertainment and media industries exert on competition, culture, and employment, I urge you to act decisively to prevent anticompetitive consolidation in this vital sector.”

Click here to read the full letter.


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Newsmax:
Sen. Marshall to Newsmax: Dems Admit Obamacare ‘an Abstract Failure’.

Fox News: NEWT GINGRICH: The simplest way to make American life affordable again.

Newsweek: Donald Trump Crushed Democrats With Government Shutdown Deal: Poll.

Washington Examiner: Here’s who is bidding on Warner Bros Discovery.

CU Today: NDAA Talks Accelerate As Credit Unions Push To Protect Key Provisions In Final Bill.

Daily Signal: Don’t Expand Obamacare, Make Health Care Affordable Again.

Fox4: Sen. Marshall’s bill to restore whole milk in schools passes Senate.

KCLY: Senate Moves to Recognize National First-Generation College Celebration Day.

KWCH: Sen. Roger Marshall promises healthcare vote before year’s end.

KSN: Sen. Roger Marshall talks ACA replacement plan.

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Fox Business:
Trump’s $2K tariff dividends could carry a hefty price tag.

Reuters: Delays, setbacks loom over Trump’s Golden Dome missile shield.

Politico: Comey case hanging by a thread as judge squeezes DOJ over Halligan’s handling.

AP: U.S. trade deficit drops 24% in August as Trump’s tariffs reduce imports.

Military Times: US aircraft carrier arrives in the Caribbean in buildup near Venezuela.

Ad Astra Radio: Kansas County Farm Bureaus Partner With Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry.

KSN: New policy change would make it easier for Kansas nurses to afford malpractice insurance.

KVOE: Emporia State announces articulation agreements with all 19 Kansas community colleges, 2026-27 plans for residence hall and meal rates.

KSNT: KDHE launches new tool to help Kansans stay safe from viruses.

KWCH: Wichita officer seriously hurt after suspect punches him multiple times.

KCTV5: Chiefs heiress Gracie Hunt praises Turning Point’s alternative Super Bowl halftime show.

Fox4KC: Leawood parents call for safer streets after 10-year-old hit and killed.

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Kansas Labor Statistics Are Delayed

Bureau of Labor Statistics Operations Have Resumed, October Labor Report Delayed


TOPEKA
– Due to the lapse in federal funding, all Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) operations were suspended from October 1, 2025, through November 12, 2025. As a result, the release of the October 2025 Kansas Labor Report, including jobs numbers and unemployment data, which was originally scheduled for November 21, was postponed until further notice.

With the conclusion of the federal government shutdown on November 12, 2025, BLS operations have resumed. While work is underway, updated release dates for the delayed Kansas Labor Market reports for September and October are not yet available. The Kansas Department of Labor will share the new release dates as soon as they are confirmed.

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Unapproved Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on November 11

The Regular Council Meeting on November 11, 2025 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was Michael Ramsey, Joe George, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Moved by Stewart, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0, to approve Ordinance No. 207, Vacating Alley between Lots 4, 5, 12 and 13, Block 2, Well’s Addition of the City of Uniontown, Kansas.

 

Discussion of memorial stone design and installation.  Further thought and research will be discussed at a later date.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

Joe George commented of two habitual dogs running at large.  Citation will be issued to the owner of the dogs at large.

 

Michael Ramsey asked about official election results.  At this time, no final election results have been released.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson presented the October 2025 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $226,781.89, Receipts $34,948.70, Transfers Out $3,024.00, Expenditures $38,944.50, Checking Account Closing Balance $219,762.09. Bank Statement Balance $225,361.81, including Checking Account Interest of $49.67, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $5,599.72, Reconciled Balance $219,762.09.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $38,501.14, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $23,159.28, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $45,414.89, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $326,837.40. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $578.48, and Utility CDs $1,920.63 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $2,449.11.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of October 2025, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  October Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00, for Total Transfers of $3,024.00.  Net Loss for the month of October $7,019.80, Year-to-Date Net Loss $44,101.65.  Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $107,340.87 (79.7%), Expenditures $103,176.20 (67.6%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $29,485.11 (79.2%), Expenditures $35,208.17 (76.3%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $95,286.09 (76.9%), Expenditures $101,689.36 (63.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $154,613.74 (103.3%), Expenditures $204,046.64 (95.5%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,101.28 (111.6%), Expenditures $5,166.76 (71.2%).  The October 2025 payables to date in the amount of $26,571.99 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of October 14, 2025 Regular Meeting
  • October Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & November Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan reported 301 2nd St. had been cleaned up and in compliance.  101 Washington has had no change since last meeting, a citation had previously been issued and awaiting court date.  401 Sherman not in compliance after phone call was made to property owner, citation will be issued to the individuals residing on the property and one will be mailed to property owner.

 

City Superintendent Bobby Rich had nothing to report.

 

Clerk Arnold informed the council that the 3-50amp 240 volt outlets had been installed in the park.

 

 

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – nothing

Councilwoman Pemberton – Invited any volunteers to install Christmas lights in the park the weekend before Thanksgiving

Councilwoman Pritchett – nothing

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS

SEED Grant –  Close out paperwork has been submitted and accepted.  Treasurer Johnson has made substantial progress on the library.

 

FEMA Flooding–  Once an invoice from Marbery Concrete is received for the remainder of the project, it will be submitted for review.  Invoice is due before mid-January.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:45PM.

No action from executive session.

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Bronson Receives $199K Grant for Sidewalks And Playground Equipment

Bronson Park. Submitted photos. November 2024

Commerce Awards Over $7.6M in CDBG Grants to 19 Kansas Communities

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced more than $7.6 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding has been awarded for 19 projects across Kansas. These investments are aimed at strengthening infrastructure, housing, and economic opportunities in rural and low- to moderate-income communities.

“Communities throughout Kansas need partners as they work to rehabilitate housing, revitalize community facilities, and build safe playgrounds and attractions,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The CDBG program provides lasting, positive change through infrastructure advancements and quality-of-life improvements — all together growing local economies and creating stronger towns across the state.”

The 19 awardees received a total of $7,690,591 in federal funds, which was matched by $9,885,173 in local investments. The result was a combined total of $17,575,764 to be used for public improvements across Kansas.

Projects awarded in this round include:

  • Arkansas City, $300,000 – Rehabilitating five housing units, including four owner-occupied homes, and demolishing two vacant blighted structures
  • Auburn, $312,779 – Revitalizing Auburn Civic Center Park with a new basketball and pickleball court, fencing, facility lighting and more
  • Bronson, $199,575 – Replacing playground equipment and constructing ADA-accessible sidewalks
  • Carbondale, $650,000 – Building multi-purpose sport courts, a toddler play area, facility lighting and sidewalks to the park
  • Chapman, $300,000 – Restoring the second floor of the historic Buhrer Opera House for future commercial use
  • Chase, $650,000 – Upgrading the wastewater system to replace deteriorated sewer mains and lift stations to reduce infiltration and inflow
  • Delphos, $650,000 – Redeveloping a downtown park with a new playground, small splash pad, restroom and accessibility upgrades
  • Ellsworth, $300,000 – Rehabilitating seven houses and demolishing five vacant, dilapidated structures
  • Emporia, $750,000 – Installing a synthetic turf soccer field, refurbishing an existing field and building an ADA-accessible restroom
  • Enterprise, $650,000 – Upgrading park amenities including pool improvements, splash features, shade structures, concessions, restrooms and fencing
  • Girard, $72,000 – Purchasing new safety gear for volunteer firefighters
  • Grinnell, $56,237 – Replacing 40 tornado-damaged water meters
  • Hill City, $650,000 – Reconstructing 3.5 blocks of Prout Street, including curbs, gutters and drainage
  • Junction City, $300,000 – Upgrading structures and making façade improvements to Highwind Brewing as an event space
  • Kingman, $300,000 – Restoring the historic Kingman Bank Building for commercial use
  • Leon, $50,000 – Replacing two obsolete storm sirens with a new unit near City Hall
  • Lyndon, $650,000 – Expanding and rehabilitating the local library with ADA access, façade repairs and site drainage improvements
  • Sterling, $750,000 – Installing more than 6,000 feet of new waterlines to serve a proposed business development site
  • Sumner County, $100,000 – Covering tuition, books and tools for income-eligible students attending Cowley College

“Our rural towns have the passion for advancing quality of life in their communities — but sometimes lack the resources to take on necessary projects,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “CDBG awards are more than just a check — they match the heart and vision of our communities with opportunities and resources to build a brighter future.”

The funded projects are tangible results of how CDBG dollars help communities support economic development and develop spaces that improve the lives of Kansans.

To learn more about the Community Development Block Grant program and view awardees, 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 Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

About the Kansas CDBG Program:

The Kansas Community Development Block Grant program provides funding to cities and counties to improve the lives of low- and moderate-income Kansans. Administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, the program supports projects in housing, community facilities and economic development.

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KS Health/Environment Launches New Wastewater Monitoring Dashboard

KDHE Launches New Wastewater Monitoring Dashboard

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has launched its new Kansas Wastewater Monitor for Respiratory Viruses dashboard.

This interactive tool offers the public, policymakers, researchers, and other partners access to information on the presence of viruses in Kansas communities. Community members will be able to access KDHE data on detections of important viruses in wastewater along with suggestions for how to stay healthy.

“The dashboard shares both our data and our interpretations clearly and transparently so people can make informed decisions about their health,” Dr. John Anderson, KDHE Informatics and Molecular Epidemiology program director, said. “Essentially, this dashboard will be another resource that Kansans can use to understand what germs are making our communities sick.”

The KDHE Informatics and Molecular Epidemiology program oversees Kansas’ wastewater pathogen monitoring, an effort to better understand disease trends by looking for viruses at wastewater treatment plants. KDHE currently monitors levels of Influenza A and B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and the virus that causes COVID-19. Detecting viruses this way provides high-quality insights into disease trends, often before hospitals see an increase of patients, while remaining completely anonymous and preserving privacy.

The Kansas Wastewater Monitor for Respiratory Viruses shows data from nine wastewater treatment plants across three counties: Reno County, Shawnee County, and Johnson County. For residents of other counties, it provides a statewide summary of trends. This work is collaborative, and wastewater treatment facilities and their city or county commissioners have to opt-in to participate in the program.

With the support of participating facilities personnel, city and county commissioners, local health departments and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this dashboard will provide critical insights for protecting Kansas communities from disease.

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Stay Connected with Kansas Department of Health and Environment:
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Kansas Campsite Reservations For 2026 Available December 1

Kansas State Park Annual Permits and 2026 Campsite Reservations Coming Soon

TOPEKA – Whether it’s camping under the stars, hiking new trails, or enjoying a cabin by the lake, now is the time to plan ahead. Mark your calendars for upcoming dates to purchase annual permits and reserve campsites at Kansas State Parks.

“Kansas State Parks are where family memories are made,” said Conner O’Flannagan, Kansas State Parks director. “Annual permits and campsite reservations are a gift you can give yourself and your loved ones this holiday season.”

Annual Vehicle Entrance and Camping Permits Available December 1

Beginning December 1, 2025, annual permits for visiting and camping at Kansas State Parks throughout 2026 will be available online and at state park offices.

  • Annual Vehicle Permits – Unlimited entry to all Kansas State Parks January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
    • $25 for standard permits (residents and non-residents)
    • $13.75 for senior/disabled Kansas residents
  • Unconventional Vehicle Permits – $52.50 (for UTVs and golf carts; available only at park offices; valid on improved roads and parking areas
  • Annual Camping Permits* – Covers all daily camping fees (utility fees still apply) January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
    • $202.50 if purchased before April 1 or after September 30
    • $252.50 if purchased between April 1 and September 30
  • 14-Night Camping Permits* – $112.50 for 14 nights of camping (utility fees still apply)

*Note: Camping permits do not cover additional daily utility fees or prime site fees, and valid state park vehicle permits are also required. You must be 18 or older to rent a campsite or cabin at Kansas State Parks.

Prime Season Reservation Dates

Reservations for campsites during the prime season (April 1–October 31) open at 12 p.m. CST on:

  • December 10, 2025 – Cedar Bluff, Cheney, Clinton, Eisenhower, Hillsdale, Kanopolis, Meade, Milford, Pomona, Perry, Sandhills, and Tuttle Creek State Parks.
  • December 17, 2025 – Crawford, Cross Timbers, El Dorado, Elk City, Fall River, Glen Elder, Historic Lake Scott, Lovewell, Prairie Dog, Webster, and Wilson State Parks.

Holiday Weekend Minimum Stay Requirements

For those planning to visit Kansas State Parks during holiday weekends, please note these minimum stay requirements for campsite and cabin reservations:

Campsites:

  • Memorial Day Weekend – 4-night minimum, customer choice of
    • Thursday through Sunday nights, May 21-24, 2026 or
    • Friday through Monday nights, May 22-25, 2026
  • July 4th Weekend – 3-night minimum, customer choice of
    • Thursday through Saturday nights, July 2-4, 2026 or
    • Friday through Sunday nights, July 3-5, 2026
  • Labor Day Weekend – 4-night minimum, customer choice of
    • Thursday through Sunday nights, September 3-6, 2026 or
    • Friday through Monday nights, September 4-7, 2026

Cabins

  • Memorial Day Weekend – 3-night minimum including May 22-24, 2026
  • July 4th Weekend – 2-night minimum including July 3-4, 2026
  • Labor Day Weekend – 3-night minimum including September 4-6, 2026

Tips for a Smooth Reservation Experience

To improve your chances of securing your preferred dates:

  1. Familiarize yourself with CampItKS.gov or ReserveAmerica.com before the December opening dates.
  2. Ensure your login information is current or create a new account if needed.
  3. Download the CampItKS mobile app for easy access on the go.
  4. Set reminders for permit sales and reservation dates.

For maps, amenities, and a complete list of Kansas State Parks, visit ksoutdoors.gov/State-Parks.

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The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of Kansas’s natural resources for the benefit of both current and future generations. KDWP manages 29 state parks, 177 lakes and wildlife areas, more than 300 public waterbodies, and 5 nature centers. Other services include management of threatened, endangered, and at-risk species, law enforcement, and wildlife habitat programs. For more information about KDWP, visit ksoutdoors.gov.

Snow-covered cabin with green roof and porch, surrounded by leafless trees and quiet winter scenery.

Clinton State Park (Douglas County, Kansas) in winter © Andrea Etzel/Kansas Tourism

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