Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

USDA Opens 2025 General and Continuous Conservation Reserve Program Enrollment

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USDA to Open General and Continuous Conservation Reserve Program Enrollment for 2025

WASHINGTON, May 12, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced several Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) enrollment opportunities for agricultural producers and landowners. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is accepting offers for both the General and Continuous CRP beginning today through June 6, 2025.

CRP, USDA’s flagship conservation program, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. For four decades, CRP has provided financial and technical support to agricultural producers and landowners who place unproductive or marginal cropland under contract for 10-15 years and who agree to voluntarily convert the land to beneficial vegetative cover to improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and support wildlife habitat. The American Relief Act, 2025, extended provisions for CRP through Sept. 30, 2025.

“With 1.8 million acres available for all CRP enrollment this fiscal year, we are very aware that we are bumping up against the statutory 27-million-acre statutory cap,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “Now more than ever, it’s important that the acres offered by landowners and those approved by USDA address our most critical natural resource concerns. With the limited number of acres that we have available, we’re not necessarily looking for the most acres offered but instead prioritizing mindful conservation efforts to ensure we maximize the return on our investment from both a conservation and economic perspective.”

General CRP (Signup 64)

Agricultural producers and landowners submit offers for General CRP through a competitive bid process. Offers are ranked and scored, by FSA, using nationally established environmental benefits criteria. USDA will announce accepted offers once ranking and scoring for all offers is completed. In addition to annual rental payments, approved General CRP participants may also be eligible for cost-share assistance to establish long-term, resource-conserving vegetative cover.

Continuous CRP (Signup 63)

Unlike General CRP, Continuous CRP offers are not subject to a competitive bid process. To ensure enrolled acres do not exceed the current statutory cap of 27 million acres, FSA is accepting Continuous CRP offers on a first-come, first-served basis through June 6. However, should allotted CRP acreage remain available following the June 6 deadline, FSA will accept continuous CRP offers from interested landowners through July 31, 2025, and may be subsequently considered for acceptance, in batches, if it’s determined that the offered acres support USDA’s conservation priorities.

Continuous CRP participants voluntarily offer environmentally sensitive lands, typically smaller parcels than offered through General CRP including wetlands, riparian buffers, and varying wildlife habitats. In return, they receive annual rental payments and cost-share assistance to establish long-term, resource-conserving vegetative cover.

Continuous CRP enrollment options include:

  • State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement Initiative: Restores vital habitat in order to meet high-priority state wildlife conservation goals.
  • Highly Erodible Land Initiative: Producers and landowners can enroll in CRP to establish long-term cover on highly erodible cropland that has a weighted erodibility index greater than or equal to 20.
  • Clean Lakes, Estuaries and Rivers (CLEAR) Initiative: Prioritizes water quality practices on the land that, if enrolled, will help reduce sediment loadings, nutrient loadings, and harmful algal blooms. The vegetative covers also contribute to increased wildlife populations.
  • CLEAR30 (a component of the CLEAR Initiative): Offers additional incentives for water quality practice adoption and can be accessed in 30-year contracts.
  • Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program: Addresses high priority conservation objectives of states and Tribal governments on agricultural lands in specific geographic areas.

Grassland and Expiring CRP Acres

FSA will announce dates for Grassland CRP signup in the near future.

Additionally, landowners with acres enrolled in CRP set to expire Sept. 30, 2025, can offer acres for re-enrollment beginning today. A producer can offer to enroll new acres into CRP and also offer to re-enroll any acres expiring Sept. 30, 2025.

For more information on CRP participant and land eligibility, approved conservation practices and detailed program fact sheets, visit FSA’s CRP webpage.

 

 

More Information  

Interested producers should apply through the FSA at their local USDA Service Center.

Signed into law in 1985, CRP is one of the largest voluntary private-lands conservation programs in the United States. Originally intended to primarily control soil erosion and potentially stabilize commodity prices by taking marginal lands out of production, the program has evolved over the years, providing many conservation and economic benefits.

FSA helps America’s farmers, ranchers and forest landowners invest in, improve, protect and expand their agricultural operations through the delivery of agricultural programs for all Americans. FSA implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster recovery and marketing programs through a national network of state and county offices and locally elected county committees. For more information, visit fsa.usda.gov.

 

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

 

Bourbon County, Government, Kansas

Bourbon County Is In Drought Watch:consider water usage and take extra care to prevent wildfires

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Governor Kelly Updates Declaration of Drought Emergency, Warnings, and Watches for Kansas Counties

 

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly has signed a proclamation approving updated drought declarations for Kansas counties.

“Drought conditions have persisted across Kansas through the winter and spring, and we must respond accordingly,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “As we head into the summer months, where we typically see drier conditions, I urge Kansans to consider their water usage and take extra care to prevent wildfires.”

The drought declaration placed three counties into emergency status, 39 counties into warning status, and 63 counties into watch status. This action was recommended by Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office and Chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. Precipitation totals have varied widely across Kansas in recent weeks, with some eastern and southeastern counties receiving heavy rainfall that temporarily improved surface moisture, while central and western regions continue to experience worsening drought conditions. Despite these isolated rains, much of the state remains below average for cumulative precipitation, with ongoing deficits in soil moisture and declining streamflows.

“While we’ve seen precipitation in various regions of the state this spring, the long-term effects of drought have prevented improvements in the overall conditions,” said Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office and Chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. “The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to monitor the drought conditions across Kansas and make recommendations to Governor Kelly as conditions change.”

Through an interagency agreement between the Kansas Water Office, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, counties in the emergency stage are eligible for emergency water use from certain state fishing lakes and some federal reservoirs.

 

Individuals and communities must contact the Kansas Water Office for a water supply request before withdrawing water from lakes. These requests will, in turn, be referred to the appropriate office to obtain the necessary permits to withdraw the requested water.

 

This proclamation shall remain in effect for those counties identified until rescinded by a proclamation ending the declaration or revising the drought stage status of the affected counties.

 

Effective immediately, the proclamation:

 

  • Declares a Drought Emergency, Warning, or Watch for the counties as identified below;
  • Authorizes and directs all agencies under the jurisdiction of the governor to implement the appropriate watch, warning, or emergency-level drought response actions assigned in the Operations Plan of the Governor’s Drought Response Team.

 

The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the negative drought-induced effects on Kansans. Kansans are encouraged to report drought-related conditions and impacts in their region through the Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR) system.

For more detailed information about current conditions, visit the Climate and Drought webpage on the Kansas Water Office website at kwo.ks.gov.

County Drought Stage Declarations:

Drought Emergency: Harvey, Reno, Sedgwick.

 

Drought Warning: Barber, Barton, Butler, Chase, Clark, Clay, Cloud, Comanche, Cowley, Decatur, Edwards, Grant, Greenwood, Hamilton, Harper, Jewell, Kingman, Kiowa, Lyon, McPherson, Marion, Marshall, Meade, Morton, Norton, Pawnee, Phillips, Pratt, Rawlins, Republic, Rice, Rush, Seward, Smith, Stafford, Stanton, Stevens, Sumner, Washington.

Drought Watch: Allen, Anderson, Atchison, Bourbon, Brown, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Cheyenne, Coffey, Crawford, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Elk, Ellis, Ellsworth, Finney, Ford, Franklin, Geary, Gove, Graham, Gray, Greeley, Haskell, Hodgeman, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Kearny, Labette, Lane, Leavenworth, Lincoln, Linn, Logan, Miami, Mitchell, Montgomery, Morris, Nemaha, Neosho, Ness, Osage, Osborne, Ottawa, Pottawatomie, Riley, Rooks, Russell, Saline, Scott, Shawnee, Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego, Wabaunsee, Wallace, Wichita, Wilson, Woodson, Wyandotte.

 

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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May 9, 2025
The President and his administration are moving at an epic pace.  This rapid implementation has reversed damaging actions by the previous administration and put our nation on a path to protect our borders, to cut wasteful spending (fraud and abuse), and to cut taxes.
President Trump and congress made considerable tax cuts in 2017 that will end this year.  The cuts can be extended if legislation is passed, you may have heard the President talk about a “big, beautiful bill”.  If the tax cuts are not extended it will be a major tax increase on over 80% of U.S. taxpayers.  It will also be a major state income tax increase on Kansans.  The federal Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is the baseline for filing your state income taxes so if it increases your state income taxes increase.  It’s a heavy lift for Congress to pass legislation so the 2017 tax cuts do not sunset, especially since they are attempting to pass more cuts like exempting Social Security, tips, and overtime from federal income taxes.  “It is a paradoxical truth that tax rates are too high today and tax revenues are too low, and the soundest way to raise the revenues in the long run is to cut the tax rates.”–John F. Kennedy
 
Kansas Supreme Court justices are currently selected by a nominating commission (made up mainly of lawyers) that submit three names to the Governor, and the Governor picks one of the three to be a justice.  The reason this process was put into effect for selecting state supreme court justices is that the powers that be felt that Kansas voters were not smart enough to select their supreme court justices and that it had to be handled by professional lawyers.  This process has failed Kansans.  You may have heard, the U.S. supreme court has allegedly overturned more Kansas Supreme Court rulings than any other state per capita.
This could change because on the August 4, 2026, ballot Kansas voters will have an option to keep the current process or change it to electing state supreme court justices.  Why would Kansas consider changing the selection process of justices?  To increase transparency and public trust.  It has been argued that judicial activism is a “threat to democratic principles and the rule of law… by allowing unelected judges to make decisions that should be left to the people or their elected representatives.”  U.S. Justice Scalia warned that judges who interpret the Constitution as a “living document” have crossed a line to effectively become policymakers.  He also compared this “approach to the situation in the 1930’s Germany, where judges began interpreting laws to reflect the ‘spirit of the age,’ leading to disastrous consequences.”
For example, in the case Kansas versus Garcia, illegal immigrants who committed identity theft, the Kansas Supreme Court majority ruled that it was a federal issue, and the state didn’t have authority to prosecute even though identity theft is against Kansas law and the illegals used stolen identities on state and federal forms.  Thankfully, this ruling was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court.  Justice Scalia wrote in response to the Kansas Supreme Court ruling that, “This interpretation is flatly contrary to standard English usage.”
Currently, there is a retention vote for justices on a six-year schedule. You vote yes or no on each justice – to retain or not.  Some say that is an election of sorts.  However, common sense tells us two or more candidates running for the position educating voters is more transparent and provides an opportunity to get to know the candidates.  With the current retention vote, it is very difficult to be an informed voter.  A super majority of legislators supported putting this change on the August 4, 2026, ballot and voters will get to have their voices heard.
Interim Committees are approved by the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC), which is made up of eight legislators that are in House and Senate leadership.  They approved several interim committees that will meet to take a deeper look at topics before the next session.  A special interim committee on tax will meet and cover several topics.  The House Tax Chairman and I requested a deeper dive on property valuations.  The more I research that system and attempt to navigate it, the more convinced I am the system is broken.  This is not just a Kansas issue; many states have the same problems.  It will take innovative thinking to bring more accuracy and transparency to property taxes.
There will also be interim committees on KPERS, housing, crypto currency, campaign contributions/transparency (hopefully a look at stopping dark money) and several other topics.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Government, Kansas

Flags Half-Staff for Peace Officers Memorial Day

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Governor Kelly Directs Flags be Flown at Half-Staff for Peace Officers Memorial Day


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly, in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, on Tuesday, directed flags throughout the State of Kansas to be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown on Thursday, May 15, 2025, in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day. Peace Officers Memorial Day pays tribute to local, state, and federal peace officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty.

“Every day, Kansas peace officers put their lives on the line in service to their communities and fellow Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Peace Officers Memorial Day is a solemn reminder to acknowledge and appreciate their sacrifices and commitment.”

To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit: https://www.governor.ks.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honors.

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Government, Kansas

Blackout-Style License Plates Coming to Kansas

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Kansas Department of Revenue Announces Blackout-Style License Plates Coming to Kansas

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Revenue is excited to announce that the popular blackout-style license plates will soon be coming to Kansas vehicles. Beginning July 1, 2025, this highly anticipated new plate design will be available to Kansas drivers to purchase from their local county treasurer’s office.

Blackout Plate

“I’m always happy to listen to my constituents about issues that matter to them,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By introducing the blackout license plate style, we are giving Kansans more options on the road while still adhering to safe license plate requirements.”

Designed with an all-black background and sharp white lettering, the blackout plate adds a sleek and stylish plate design to the selection of distinctive license plates. The introduction of this plate design is in response to the increasing interest from Kansans in having a blackout-style plate option for their vehicles.

“The blackout plate design has proven to be very popular in surrounding states, and we’ve had many Kansans ask for it to come to Kansas,” said Division of Vehicles Director Deann Williams. “We’ve heard them loud and clear, and we are very excited to bring this highly requested plate design to Kansas vehicles this year.”

Blackout plates will be available for standard passenger vehicles and motorcycles. The cost breakdown is as follows:

  • One-time plate fee: $40
  • Annual royalty fee: $50
  • Personalization fee: $45.50 (optional)

The royalty fee collected for the blackout plate will go to the License Plate Replacement Fund, and the funds will be used by the Department of Revenue to replace deteriorated license plates.

To see all the distinct license plates currently on offer, visit www.ksrevenue.gov/dovplates

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Government, Kansas

Public Health Advisories for Kansas Lakes Due to Blue-Green Algae

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.

The water recreation season in Kansas officially runs from April 1 to Oct. 31, as do the harmful algae blooms (HAB) response program’s active operations. Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in activities taking place in or on the water, such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

A HAB may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g., direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.

If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported as soon as possible at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

Active Advisories

Warning

  • Frazier Lake, Grant County
  • Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County

Watch

  • Council Grove City Lake, Morris County

A Hazard status indicates that a HAB is present, and extreme conditions exist.

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
  • It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.
  • In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.
  • In zoned lakes, if a lake zone is issued at a Hazard level, all other adjacent lake zones may be recommended for an advisory status dependent on lake conditions.

A Warning status indicates that a HAB is expected or present.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
  • Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
  • Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
  • Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
  • Water contact should be avoided.
  • Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
  • Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
  • If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
  • Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

A Watch status means that a HAB is possible and may be present.

When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
  • Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
  • Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
  • Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
  • Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water and wash with clean water after any contact.
  • Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

Advisories are Lifted when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit kdhe.ks.gov/HAB and check out our interactive story and informative video.

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Government, Kansas

KS April Total Tax Collections at $1.33B; 1.3% Above Estimate

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Governor Kelly Announces April Total Tax Collections at $1.33B; 1.3% Above Estimate


TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends April 2025 with total tax collections at $1.33 billion. That is $17.6 million, or 1.3%, above the estimate. Total tax collections were down 5.9% from April 2024.

“Kansas’ current financial health is strong, but we must remain committed to fiscally responsible budgeting to ensure lasting stability in the future,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

Individual income tax collections were $684.8 million. That is $10 million, or 1.5% above the estimate, and down 7.5% from April 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $316.5 million. That is $1.4 million, or 0.4% above the estimate, and down 6.4% from April 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $296.3 million, which is $5.5 million, or 1.9% above the estimate and up $1.2 million, or 0.4%, from April 2024.

Click here to view the April 2025 revenue numbers.

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Government, Kansas

Export-Import Bank of the U.S. Honors Kansas

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Commerce International Division Recognized for Excellence in Export Promotion

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the Kansas Department of Commerce International Division has been awarded the Regional Export Promotion Program (REPP) Member of the Year Award. This honor from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) was presented at REPP’s 2025 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C.

“With 95% of the world’s consumers living outside of the United States, the State of Kansas is firmly committed to supporting and providing resources to Kansas exporters of all sizes,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This award acknowledges how serious we are about helping Kansas companies succeed in the global marketplace.”

The award recognizes Kansas for its collaboration and commitment to supporting businesses in exporting, particularly by hosting several informative and impactful webinars. These webinars, hosted by Commerce, were designed to bring awareness and accessibility to EXIM programs for Kansas exporters, generating greater participation and engagement across the state.

“The collaborative spirit and unwavering support of the Kansas Department of Commerce exemplifies and reflects the values and missions of EXIM and the work that we do to support American business,” Acting President and Chairman James Cruse said. “The innovation and advocacy of the agency has been an invaluable resource to exporters, allowing them to access the tools necessary to thrive in international markets and making them a standout recipient of this year’s REPP Member of the Year award.”

EXIM is an independent federal agency that supports American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports. Collaboratively, the REPP program brings state, county and local nonprofit economic development entities together with EXIM through partnerships designed to expand export opportunities. Kansas has been a member of the REPP program since 2024.

“Kansas’ partnership with EXIM has assisted 19 Kansas businesses with international trade finance solutions — with the majority of them being small businesses,” Assistant Director of Global Resources Laurie Pieper said. “We are honored to have received the 2025 REPP Award, and Kansas Commerce looks forward to continuing a fulfilling and mutually beneficial relationship with EXIM.”

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 EXIM:

The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is the nation’s official export credit agency with the mission of supporting American jobs by facilitating U.S. exports. To advance American competitiveness and assist U.S. businesses as they compete for global sales, EXIM offers financing including export credit insurance, working capital guarantees, loan guarantees, and direct loans. As an independent federal agency, EXIM contributes to U.S. economic growth by supporting tens of thousands of jobs in exporting businesses and their supply chains across the United States. Learn more at www.exim.gov.

Government, Kansas

Flags at Half-Staff for National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day

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Governor Kelly Directs Flags be Flown
at Half-Staff in Honor of
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly, in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, on Thursday, directed flags throughout the State of Kansas be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown on Sunday, May 4, 2025, in recognition of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.

“Our first responders risk their lives every day in service to our communities and Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day is a time to honor Kansas firefighters for their tireless work and ensure the ultimate sacrifice that far too many have made will never be forgotten.”

To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit: https://www.governor.ks.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honors.

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Government, Kansas

Offering KS Rural Communities Faster, Affordable Program To Construct Community Centers

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Commerce Launches Blueprint to Build Grant Program for Community Centers

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of the Blueprint to Build program, an initiative offered in conjunction with the 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding round. This program provides rural Kansas communities a faster, more affordable way to construct state-of-the-art community centers.

This program is aimed to boost community engagement, improve physical health, and reduce social isolation within the community but especially for low- to moderate-income residents. Centers are designed for energy efficiency and are encouraged to be placed in walkable downtowns or near existing community spaces to maximize the impact.

“Finding affordable solutions for community facilities can be difficult for many Kansas communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said, “and this new collaboration with the CDBG program will provide resources to plan and build vibrant community spaces across Kansas. These investments in quality of place make our communities more attractive to new businesses and residents.”

With $12.7 million available to help reduce overall construction costs, the Blueprint to Build program makes it easier for Kansas communities to develop modern, energy-efficient community centers.

CDBG has developed three pre-approved “off-the-shelf” Blueprint to Build designs, enabling communities to save hundreds of thousands of dollars and significantly reduce design timelines. With most architectural and engineering costs already covered, communities can focus on construction. In addition to covering design costs, the Blueprint to Build program will fund up to $2.5 million toward construction expenses, allowing proposals to concentrate primarily on building.

Each approved Blueprint to Build community center design will include:

  • Multi-purpose room with flexible use options
  • Serving kitchen with fixed equipment
  • Fitness center
  • Telemedicine office
  • Welcoming lobby with small gathering area
  • Restrooms
  • Storm shelter
  • Customizable, durable exterior and interior finishes
  • Covered patios and overhead doors for fitness and multi-purpose rooms

Applicants may also incorporate optional features, such as gymnasiums or aquatic amenities, given they align with program guidelines.

Cities and counties with more than 2,500 population may apply for up to $2.5 million in funding for new community center construction using one of the three pre-approved designs. Cities and counties with fewer residents may apply for up to $1.5 million. Eligible applicants include all non-entitlement cities and counties (i.e., those that do not receive direct CDBG funding from HUD). The following entitlement communities are ineligible for funding: Kansas City, Lawrence, Leavenworth, Manhattan, Overland Park, Topeka, Wichita and Johnson County.

Interested cities and counties are required to submit a pre-application and will be contacted within 10 business days with further instructions. Only those with an approved pre-application will move forward with a full application. Approval does not guarantee funding.

The application period for the program opens May 1 and will close November 14, 2025. Those interested in submitted a pre-application should visit here.

For additional information about Blueprint to Build or any other CDBG initiatives, visit the webpage here or contact the Kansas CDBG team at [email protected].

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 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.

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.

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Entertainment, Government, Kansas

Free Fishing and State Park Entrance Days for 2025

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Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Announces Free Fishing and State Park Entrance Days for 2025

TOPEKA – Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Secretary Christopher Kennedy has issued orders designating several Free Fishing and Free State Park Entrance days. The announcement was made at the April 24, 2025, Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission meeting.

The Free Fishing Days are June 7 and 8, 2025. On those days, anyone can fish by legal means without a Kansas fishing license. All length and creel limits still apply.

All Kansas State Parks will also offer free entrance on Saturday, May 3. Camping fees still apply.

“I encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities to enjoy Kansas’ incredible natural resources,” said Kennedy. “Whether you’re casting a line, hiking a trail, picnicking on a beach, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, these days are meant to inspire connection with your family, friends, and the great outdoors.”

Along with these statewide events, Secretary Kennedy has also designated several park-specific Free Entrance Days that align with local events and programs designed to engage families, outdoor enthusiasts, and newcomers to Kansas state parks. These dates are as follows:

  • May 11 – Wilson State Park
  • May 17 – Milford State Park
  • June 7 – Cheney State Park
  • June 7 – El Dorado State Park
  • June 7 – Prairie Dog State Park
  • June 7 – Elk City State Park
  • June 7 – Glen Elder State Park
  • June 14 – Cedar Bluff State Park
  • June 14 – Historic Lake Scott State Park
  • June 14 – Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
  • July 4 – Cross Timbers State Park
  • August 16 – Hillsdale State Park
  • August 23 – Tuttle Creek State Park
  • September 7 – Lovewell State Park
  • September 21 – Webster State Park
  • September 27 – Clinton State Park
  • September 27 – Crawford State Park
  • September 27 – Fall River State Park
  • October 11 – Eisenhower State Park
  • October 11 – Meade State Park
  • October 25 – Kanopolis State Park
  • October 25 – Perry State Park
  • October 25 – Pomona State Park
  • October 25 – Sand Hills State Park

For more information about Kansas state parks, fishing opportunities, and upcoming events, visit ksoutdoors.com.

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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.com.

 

Government, Kansas

Early Childhood Legislation: Governor Kelly

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Governor Kelly Signs Landmark
Bipartisan Early Childhood Legislation:
Here’s What They’re Saying


TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly signed Thursday House Bill 2045, a bipartisan compromise to expand access to child care services and consolidate existing early childhood programs into the Office of Early Childhood. The bill was crafted through negotiations with a bipartisan group of Kansas legislators from both the Kansas House of Representatives and the Kansas Senate and ultimately received widespread bipartisan support.

This landmark piece of legislation is the most consequential early childhood education and care legislation enacted in Kansas in 15 years. Governor Kelly signed the bill into law during a ceremony at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center in Topeka.

Under this legislation, nearly 20 existing state programs serving young children and families will be consolidated into the Office of Early Childhood. The office will be responsible for the state’s early childhood system, serve communities and stakeholders by developing a statewide strategy for expanding access to child care, and administer services currently spread throughout various state agencies.

Here’s what they’re saying:

“Access to safe, high-quality childcare is essential for Kansas families and our workforce. This legislation provides a bipartisan solution that simplifies regulations, improves government efficiency, and removes unnecessary barriers that have limited childcare availability. By streamlining processes while upholding strict safety standards, we are creating a system that supports children, increases access, and ultimately makes childcare more affordable for families across the state.”
—Representative Laura Williams, Kansas House District 30

“This bipartisan child care bill removes the burdensome government red tape and provides additional child care slots to communities all across Kansas, both rural and urban. I’m proud that we have gotten this bill across the finish line and delivered for Kansas families.”
—Senator Tory Marie Blew, Kansas Senate District 33

 “This bipartisan compromise will propel Kansas early childhood system forward and be transformative for children and families. By establishing the Office of Early Childhood and supporting our early childhood workforce, we will expand access to high-quality child care and provide our children the best possible start.”
—Senator Pat Pettey, Kansas Senate District 6

“For far too long, childcare in Kansas was fragmented, inefficient, and difficult for parents and providers to navigate. As Chairman of the House Commerce Committee, I’ve heard firsthand how the lack of affordable, accessible childcare has kept parents—especially mothers—out of the workforce. This bill revolutionizes the way we approach childcare by consolidating oversight into a single department and creating transparency in both regulation and funding. Most importantly, it empowers parents with more affordable options by allowing individuals to care for up to four children without bureaucratic red tape. This commonsense solution will open thousands of new childcare slots and help parents get back to work. It’s a win for Kansas families and our economy.”
—Representative Sean Tarwater, Kansas House District 27

“The Office of Early Childhood is a great example of what bipartisan collaboration can achieve. Governor Kelly has been a strong advocate for expanding childcare in Kansas, and I’m thankful to her team and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle who helped bring this vision to life. Making childcare more affordable and accessible is one of the most meaningful ways we can support Kansas families”
—Representative Brandon Woodard, House Democratic Leader

 “The Kansas Chamber thanks the Legislature and the Governor for the passage of House Bill 2045, a comprehensive package reforming child care. The affordability and accessibility of child care facilities has continued to be a concern of the business community as business leader believe the lack of child care keeps Kansans out of the workforce. House Bill 2045 establishes the Office of Early Childhood to consolidate government positions and streamline child care services across the state, opening up the much needed access to child care for Kansas families and allowing them to reenter the workforce.”
—Alan Cobb, President and CEO, Kansas Chamber

 “High-quality, affordable childcare is vital to Kansas families and to a strong economy. The new Office of Early Childhood streamlines access, reduces burdens, and reflects a bipartisan commitment to helping parents return to work while supporting healthy child development.”
—Joe Reardon, President and CEO, Greater KC Chamber of Commerce

 “Access to high-quality child care is necessary for Kansas children and our economy to thrive. By unifying early childhood services under one roof, it will remove red tape and make it easier for families, providers and businesses to access critical early childhood services. We applaud the Governor and the Kansas Legislature for establishing the Office of Early Childhood and taking an important first step to improving the early childhood system in Kansas”
—David Jordan, United Methodist Health Ministries Fund

 “Work aimed at expanding access to child care for families is worth all the time and effort invested in passing this legislation. The bipartisan product will be instrumental for making the process better for child care organizations and for those who interface with the system; and, ideally, it will result in more child care slots. The state needed desperately to move in this direction and that’s what this significant outcome reflects.”
—Joyce Glasscock, Executive Director, Kansas Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs

“For far too many Kansans, access to affordable child care is the final hurdle on the path to achieving the American dream. The lack of child care options has become a major hinderance for economic growth in our region and across the state. House Bill 2045 will benefit job creators and help everyday Kansans by reducing bureaucracy and increasing options for families. We thank the Legislature and the Governor for coming together to address this pressing challenge.”
—John Rolfe, President and CEO, Wichita Chamber of Commerce

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