Category Archives: Kansas

Art, Government, Kansas

Arts Commission Opens Nominations for 2026 Governor’s Arts Awards

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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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Government, Kansas

Kansas Water Authority Meet in Overland Park 

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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.

 
Government, Kansas

KS Tax Collections Below Estimate For September

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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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Government, Kansas

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

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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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Government, Kansas

KCC approves unanimous settlement agreement in Evergy rate case

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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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Government, Kansas

Kansas Water Authority Seeks Regional Advisory Committee Members

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RAC Membership Drive ends September 30

The Kansas Water Authority is currently accepting applications for all 14 Regional Advisory Committees. Committee members serve as a voice for water issues in their community. Applications are available on at kwo.ks.gov.

Regional Advisory Committees (RACs) are composed of local stakeholders and water professionals that cover a variety of knowledge – including agriculture, industry, public water supply, conservation and more.

Each RAC meets to discuss local water issues and to advise the Kansas Water Authority and Kansas Water Office on the issues in their region. RAC members serve as local connections with the public and aid in establishing priorities and actions to be included in statewide water planning efforts.

“Water issues and community needs vary from region to region in our state,” said Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office. “RAC members serve as boots-on-the-ground perspective and provide crucial, local input for statewide water planning.”

To apply, visit www.kwo.ks.gov/about-us/regional-advisory-committees. Applications are due September 30.

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.

 
Elections, Government, Kansas

KS Governor Asks Legislature to Talk to Constituents About Redistricting

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Governor Kelly Calls for Public Meetings Prior to Circulation of Redistricting Special Session Petition


TOPEKA – In light of rumors circulating that Republican legislative leadership may call a special session of the legislature to do the bidding of D.C. politicians and enact mid-decade redistricting, Governor Laura Kelly issued the following statement:

“I do not agree with mid-decade redistricting based on old data and a clearly partisan agenda. According to public reporting, Republican legislative leadership is seriously considering calling a special session of the legislature to enact new congressional district maps.

“A special session may be called by the governor or by the signing of a petition supporting the call by a two-thirds majority in each chamber. As I will not call a special session for mid-decade redistricting, Republican leadership would have to rely on a petition.

“A special session to draw new maps without new data would be an unprecedented departure from the normal post-Census process. For Kansans to have any faith in these new maps, they must be afforded opportunities to speak directly, in person, with their legislators.

“As imperfect as the last redistricting process was, legislative leadership held 18 public meetings. Then House Speaker Ron Ryckman said at the time, ‘It’s important to remember that redistricting is a multi-year process that starts with these town halls to get a gauge on what Kansans want.’ Senate President Ty Masterson said in January 2022, that Johnson County is the ‘core’ of the 3rd Congressional District.

“Any efforts to institute an unprecedented mid-decade redistricting must offer a robust public comment period with both online and in-person options, especially in Johnson County.

“That is why I am calling on legislative leadership to host town halls prior to circulating a petition for a special session. Kansans must be offered the opportunity to express their opinions directly to their representatives, as they have during previous redistricting processes.

“Discussions about a special session and redistricting must be brought out from behind closed doors and into the public domain.”

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Government, Kansas

Sunflower Tourism Awards Wins National Award

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Kansas Tourism Wins Second National Award for Sunflower Summer Program

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that Kansas Tourism has earned the Gold Award in the State Bridging Communities category for the popular Sunflower Summer program. Announced at the 2025 Educational Seminar for Tourism Organization (ESTO) Conference, ESTO awards recognize state and territory tourism offices for standout initiatives that strengthen communities and inspire travel.

“The Sunflower Summer program has been a shining example of how Kansas is investing in families, education and community connections,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By opening the doors to cultural, history and recreational experiences, we’re not only building memories – we’re strengthening our local economies by driving more visitation to the many unique attractions that Kansas has to offer.”

The Bridging Communities category honors campaigns that foster meaningful connections across diverse populations and regions by bringing bold ideas, data-driven creativity and deep community impact.

The award, presented by the U.S. Travel Association, was announced during the annual ESTO Conference held August 17-19 in Phoenix.

“This award underscores our goal to grow the tourism industry by connecting Kansas families with our state’s cultural and educational treasures found in their own backyard,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “Sunflower Summer sparks new journeys, fosters state pride, and fuels the entire tourism economy.”

This recognition builds on previous honors given to the Sunflower Summer program, including Best Local Impact Campaign at the 2025 Etsy Awards, where Kansas Tourism was recognized for its efforts during the eTourism Summit in April.

The 2024 Sunflower Summer program delivered remarkable results, with more than 705,000 Kansas residents visiting the 223 participating attractions.

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 Kansas Tourism:

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

About ESTO & U.S. Travel Association:

The U.S. Travel Association’s ESTO is the tourism industry’s premiere conference, delivering innovative strategies and trend-driven sessions for destination marketing professionals. The ESTO State Awards, formerly known as the Mercury Awards, celebrates excellence in state-level tourism initiatives.

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Government, Kansas

KDOC Implements Grants for Juveniles in Detention~

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Kansas Department of Corrections Announces Implementation of Grants Expanding Behavioral Health Services for Juveniles in Detention

WICHITA, Kansas. – The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) today announced the successful implementation of over $1.4 million in grant funding, which has enabled juvenile detention centers across the state to provide vital mental health and substance use services to young people. The grants, established through the 2023 passage of House Bill 2021, address the significant behavioral health needs of juveniles and connect families to crucial support services sooner.

“This funding is a game-changer for our ability to effectively help Kansas youth in the justice system,” said Megan Milner, KDOC Deputy Secretary. “By identifying and addressing mental health and substance use needs early, we are providing a pathway for young people to receive the support they need to avoid future system involvement. For many detention centers, this is the first time they have had the capacity to offer these essential services”.

This grant program utilizes the state’s Evidence-Based Programs fund to improve services in Kansas’ nine locally operated juvenile detention centers. Assessments conducted since the grants were implemented in 2023 have revealed a critical need: over 80% of youth admitted to a detention center have mental health or substance use disorders. The grants are directly addressing this by funding timely assessments, case management, and behavioral health services.

“These grants provide crucial funding to address the needs that may be influencing a youth’s behavior in the community, thus resulting in them coming to the attention of the justice system. By getting them connected to services as early as possible, we can provide a structure of support for the youth and their family to hopefully change their trajectory in the juvenile justice system”, said Steve Stonehouse, Sedgwick County Director of Corrections.

The KDOC is responsible for the adult and juvenile correctional systems in the state, ensuring a safe and secure environment while providing opportunities for offenders to become productive members of society upon release.

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Government, Kansas

Registration Open for Governor’s Water Conference

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Register by Friday, October 24

Registration for the 2025 Governor’s Conference on the Future of Water in Kansas is open. The conference will take place on Wednesday, November 12 and Thursday, November 13 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Manhattan.

The conference will feature the latest policy and research developments on water issues in Kansas, including presentations on:
– Surface and Groundwater Issues
– Water Quality
– Education and Outreach

Registration closes on October 24. For more information, including the draft conference agenda and speaker bios, visit the Governor’s Water Conference page at kwo.ks.gov under the News & Events section.

This event is open to the press. Press badges are available for one or both days. When you arrive, visit the late registration desk to get a badge.

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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.

 
Government, Kansas

Help With Wireless phone service, Interne plan

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Lifeline program helps Kansans in need stay connected

TOPEKA – Phone and internet services are vital to accessing healthcare and community services, finding employment, and calling for help in an emergency. However, the cost to stay connected is out of reach for many Kansans.

In observance of National Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, September 7-13, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in creating awareness of the program offerings and encourages those in need of assistance to apply.

Lifeline provides combined federal and state discounts of up to $17.02 per month to help pay for residential or wireless phone service, internet, or a bundled phone and internet plan. Subscribers living on tribal lands qualify for additional discounts. Currently, nearly 8.6 million Americans, including 19,500 Kansans, are enrolled in the program.

Eligibility is based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA)
  • Veterans Pension & Survivors Pension Benefit
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
  • Head Start Tribal Programs (income based)
  • The Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands

In addition, the Safe Connections Act (SCA) of 2022 helps survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and related crimes get discounted phone, internet or bundled services through the Lifeline program. Those who qualify under SCA can receive up to six months of emergency Lifeline support and their privacy will be protected. Details are available at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/survivor-benefit/.

More information on income eligibility, participating Lifeline providers, and the enrollment process is available on the KCC’s website or by calling 800-662-0027.

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