Category Archives: Kansas

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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Bourbon County, Government, Kansas

Bourbon County Receives $1M For Bridge Project on Jayhawk Rd.

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Governor Kelly Announces $40.5M
for 27 Local Bridge Projects


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed today announced that 27 local and off-system bridge projects across Kansas will receive a combined total of $40.5 million in state and federal funding as part of two local bridge improvement programs.

“By funding bridge projects across our state, we are directly investing in the future of our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Repairing and replacing aging bridges ensures people and commerce can move safely and efficiently throughout Kansas.”

Combined with matching funds from the awarded cities and counties, the total project value is over $46.5 million. By reshaping the local bridge programs, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) more than doubled its annual funding as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

There are more than 19,000 bridges on local road systems across Kansas, and over 5,000 of those bridges need updates to meet today’s standards.

“The Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program has allowed us to enhance our commitment to local bridges,” Secretary Reed said. “This is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about strengthening the vital connections that keep our towns and cities thriving.”

KDOT will award about $20 million through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program (KLBIP) in Fiscal Year 2026. The funds will go to 11 bridge replacement projects, and an additional four deficient bridges will be permanently removed from local systems. The KLBIP, established in 2015, provides funds to local public authorities for the replacement or rehabilitation of deficient city and county-owned bridges. The program also allows cities and counties to be awarded additional funds for the removal of deficient bridges.

KDOT will award $20.5 million through the Off-System Bridge program (OSB) in Fiscal Year 2027 to fund 16 projects across the state. The OSB program was established to comply with federal requirements to use a specific portion of federal funds for bridges not on the federal-aid system. The funding is a combination of federal Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, Bridge Program Funds, and state funds.

The OSB and KLBIP programs are used for city and county bridges in need of replacement or repair that are not on the state highway system. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that consider items such as bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

For this cycle of the local bridge programs, KDOT received a combined total of 163 applications requesting $189.3 million.

Below is a list of the recipients and project locations for the KLBIP and OSB programs.

2026 Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program Projects

Local Government Agency

Location

Local Contribution

Local % Match

KDOT Match Funds

Funds for Bridge Removal

Total Funds Awarded

City of Topeka

SW 57th Street over S. branch Shunganunga Creek 0.2 miles east of US-75

$528,758

20%

$1,200,000

$      –

$1,200,000

Edwards County

20 Road (RS 1491) over a tributary to Little Coon Creek 7.0 miles north of Offerle

$65,521

0%

$900,000

$      –

$900,000

Ellis County

125th Avenue over the Saline River 12.5 miles north and 0.5 miles east of Ellis

$757,178

15%

$4,300,000

$60,900

$4,360,900

Gray County

FF Road over Crooked Creek tributary 6.0 miles south and 0.8 miles east of Haggard

$110,459

5%

$750,000

$      –

$750,000

Greenwood County

100th St over Fall River tributary 3.0 miles east and 3.2 miles north of Climax

$142,509

5%

$1,200,000

$       –

$1,200,000

Harvey County

SW 14th St over Sand Creek 1.9 miles west of I-135 in Newton

$1,057,558

15%

$2,550,000

$      –

$2,550,000

Lincoln County

E Kiowa Road over Wolf Creek 4.5 miles west of Sylvan Grove

$31,902

0%

$1,970,000

$50,000

$2,020,000

Neosho County

Veteran’s road over the Neosho River 1.0 miles east and 2.6 miles south of St. Paul

$840,859

15%

$3,065,000

$      –

$3,065,000

Rawlins County

Road 16.5 over Little Beaver Creek 0.4 miles north of Blakeman

$95,552

0%

$2,300,000

$      –

$2,300,000

Rooks County

J Road over Sand Creek 8.2 miles west of Stockton

$57,616

5%

$1,100,000

$52,200

$1,152,200

Trego County

380th Avenue over drainage ditch 1.4 miles south and 13.0 miles east of Trego Center

$40,951

0%

$500,000

$      –

$500,000

 

 

$3,728,863

 

$19,835,000

$163,100

$19,998,100

2027 Off-System Bridge Program Project Recommendations

Local Government Agency

Bridge Location

Local Contribution

Local Cost %

Maximum Funds Awarded (covering 100% of Construction and CE)

Doniphan County

Oxide Road over an abandoned CRI railroad immediately south of US-36 2.5 miles east of Troy

$82,994

6.80%

$1,250,000

Bourbon County

Jayhawk Road over tributary to Marmaton River 2.5 miles South and 1.9 miles West of Fort Scott

$87,362

8.90%

$1,000,000

Butler County

SW 80th Street over the Walnut River located 3.6 miles North and 2.0 miles East of Augusta

$251,537

11.20%

$2,000,000

Chase County

YY Road over Jacob Creek tributary 4.7 miles South and 1.0 mile East of Saffordville

$133,227

11.20%

$1,100,000

Cloud County

Wagon Road over Grave Creek 2.8 miles North and 6.0 miles East of Jamestown

$92,822

7.50%

$1,300,000

Cowley County

155th Road over Silver Creek 9.6 miles East and 4.0 miles North of Arkansas City

$114,663

5.60%

$2,000,000

Geary County

McNeal Road over East Branch Humboldt Creek 5.0 miles South and 12.0 miles East of Junction City

$104,834

12.50%

$800,000

Harper County

SE 120 Avenue over Bluff Creek 3.0 miles East and 0.4 miles South of Bluff City

$416,269

17.20%

$2,000,000

Kingman County

SE 100 Street over Rose Bud Creek 3.2 miles North and 0.2 miles West of Rago

$76,442

10.30%

$750,000

Linn County

E 850th Road over Little Sugar Creek on the north edge of Mound City 0.6 miles East of K-7

$614,308

23.50%

$2,000,000

Osage County

S Fisher Road over Plum Creek tributary 1.7 miles South and 1.5 miles West of Burlingame

$124,491

11.70%

$1,000,000

Osborne County

S 55th Road over South Fork of the Solomon River 1.0 miles South and 5.5 miles East of Osborne

$65,521

4.30%

$1,600,000

Ottawa County

Frontier Road over Sand Creek 0.5 miles North of Bennington

$68,252

7.80%

$900,000

Phillips County

W 700 Road over Starvation Creek 0.5 miles North of Stuttgart

$76,442

6.80%

$1,200,000

Riley County

Lasita Road over Timber Creek 1.0 mile North, 6.0 miles West of city of Riley

$66,614

11.10%

$600,000

Stafford County

SE 60 Street over the North Fork Ninnescah River, 6.0 miles South and 0.4 miles West of Stafford

$76,442

7.90%

$1,000,000

$2,452,220

$20,500,000

More information about KDOT’s bridge program is available on its webpage on the KDOT website.

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Government, Kansas

KS August Tax Collections Above Estimate

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August Total Tax Collections at $692.3 Million; 3.9% Above Estimate


TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends August 2025 with total tax collections at $692.3 million. That is $26.2 million, or 3.9%, above the estimate. Total tax collections were up 4.0% from August 2024.

“This month’s stronger-than-expected tax collections highlight the strength of Kansas’ work to attract business investment and workforce development, evidenced by reported witholdings up 13.7% over August of 2024,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “However, even if these better-than-expected revenues continue, I remain concerned about the reckless budget’s impact on the long-term fiscal health of the state and the risk of departing from the course of fiscal responsibility we have been on.”

Individual income tax collections were $361.2 million, which is $16.2 million, or 4.7% above the estimate. Individual income tax collections were up 9.7% from August 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $18.2 million, which is $1.8 million, or 9.0% below the estimate, and down 9.7% from August 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $294.2 million, which is $11.2 million, or 4.0% above the estimate, and down 0.1% from August 2024.

Click here to view the August 2025 revenue numbers.

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Government, Kansas

KS Dept. of Commerce Awarded Economic Development Award

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Commerce Receives IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Department of Commerce has been awarded the 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Commerce received the award for the agency’s work in the Special Event category that impacts the entire state population.

IEDC singled out the five-day, 26-stop, 2,100+ mile Community Impact Tour Commerce’s Quality Places Division took to highlight transformative projects across the state, engage with local stakeholders, and celebrate community progress during National Community Development Week.

“Our Community Impact Tour was more than a road trip. It was a chance to connect face-to-face with the people and organizations making positive change happen throughout Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The state’s strategic investments are helping spark new economic opportunities in small towns and larger cities alike, and we are honored that IEDC recognized this important work.”

The Quality Places Division within the agency will be honored at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit on September 14-17.

“The Kansas Department of Commerce is leading the field of excellence in economic development with its Community Impact Tour initiative,” IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle said. “This award shines a spotlight on the state’s commitment to its communities and showcases the significant impact of economic development. And IEDC is honored to present this award to Commerce to celebrate both their leadership and innovation in the field.”

Each year, IEDC honors an array of entities, initiatives and programs that are consistently demonstrating excellence in the realm of economic development. Those honorees lead transformational projects that revitalize communities and advance the practice of economic development.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our work recognized on a national stage, and this is actually the second award this initiative has received,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “Earlier this year, the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) also honored the Community Impact Tour. These recognitions reinforce the importance of investing in community connections and quality-of-life improvements across the state.”

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 International Economic Development Council:

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With thousands of members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in a full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at https://www.iedconline.org/.

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