Category Archives: Kansas

Bourbon County, Government, Kansas

Bronson Among Kansas Water Office Project Award Winners

Leave a comment

Governor Kelly Announces Over $26M for
Water Projects and Technical Assistance


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Water Office announced Thursday the award winners for the second round of the Senate Substitute for House Bill 2302 Grant Programs, which provide over $26 million in funding for water projects and technical assistance to communities across Kansas.

“Water is vital to the livelihood of our communities and Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This funding is a crucial step in addressing pressing water issues to safeguard our water supply for generations to come.”

In 2023, Senate Substitute for House Bill 2302 increased the amount of state funding for the State Water Plan Fund (SWPF) and created two new water related grant funds: the Technical Assistance Grant Fund and Water Projects Grant Fund. In the first year, 34 municipalities and special districts related to water were rewarded $18 million.

“The expansion of the State Water Plan to include support for municipalities and water districts continues to be a critical component towards ensuring communities across the state have access to a reliable supply of clean water,” said Senator Kenny Titus, Kansas Senate District 18.

The grant program received over 300 applications in its first year, and an additional $10 million was provided in 2024 through the Legislature to address the high demand for funding.

“We are grateful for the Legislature and Governor Kelly for approving this additional funding,” said Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office. “We received a large number of applications again this year. This funding is necessary to Kansas communities.”

Over 270 communities applied for the 2024 funding period, requesting a total of $237 million. Thirty-nine technical assistance grants and 24 water projects grants were awarded to 70 communities and special districts related to water.

“Our small agricultural towns are the lifeblood of our state,” said Senator Rick Billinger, Kansas Senate District 40. “And this funding will help these communities have the clean and affordable water access they need to thrive.”

A total of $26,287,103 was awarded.

“I am so pleased to see the list of rural communities and rural water districts across Kansas that have been awarded grants to mitigate their specific water issues,” said Representative Lisa Moser, Kansas House District 106. “Water is the lifeblood of our state. Without it, nothing else matters.”

See the full list of funded projects at kwo.ks.gov.


Technical Assistance Grant Fund:

Barber County RWD No 1

$324,116

Finney County Sewer District 1

$165,000

Wallace County RWD No 1

$452,000

Ellis

$83,400

Bunker Hill

$176,200

Leon

$250,000

West Mineral

$33,000

Onaga

$192,490

Franklin County RWD No 1

$18,500

Cloud County RWD No 1

$132,600

Kismet

$146,500

Jewell County RWD No 1

$237,500

Norcatur

$134,700

Hartford

$68,000

Anthony

$50,000

Sylvia

$304,900

Toronto

$250,400

Ozawkie

$45,000

Harper

$83,800

Lecompton

$125,000

Towanda

$390,900

Finney County RWD No 1

$307,500

Cawker City

$241,650

Liberty

$25,000

Randall

$38,300

Parsons

$92,000

Potwin

$52,180

Montgomery County RWD No 9

$55,000

LeRoy

$102,000

Reno County RWD No 1

$94,600

Chase

$366,100

Lakewood Hills Sewer Improvement District

$909,000

Wilson County RWD No 4

$39,700

Sylvan Grove

$148,400

Goessel

$50,000

Ellis County RWD No 1C

$219,600

Alma

$575,600

Bronson

$307,075

Washington County RWD No 2

$64,000

Water Projects Grant Fund

Marion County Improvement District 2

$458,880

Troy

$824,520

NWKP&DC/Palco

$500,000

Moscow

$635,300

Marion County RWD No. 4

$1,414,760

Barton County RWD No. 2

$980,000

Blue Mound

$517,000

Bartlett

$416,310

Collyer

$13,745

Goff

$94,850

West Mineral

$664,000

Harveyville

$1,272,556

La Harpe

$750,000

Leondardville

$289,140

Girard

$1,289,800

Quinter

$350,000

Humboldt

$3,000,000

Geary County RWD No. 4

$192,516

Cuba

$334,000

Hamilton

$467,000

Huron

$520,805

Pretty Prairie

$33,651

Moundridge

$542,000

Kanopolis

$1,196,141


Loan Assistance:

Liebenthal

$24,103

St. John

$531,772

Gorham

$59,506

Kensington

$184,084

NWKP&DC/Hill City

$1,104,952

Gove

$132,110

Plainville

$141,891

###

Government, Kansas

Significant Changes to CDBG Community Facilities Programs

Leave a comment

Commerce Unveils Groundbreaking Overhaul of Community Development Block Grant Program

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce announced today significant changes to its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Community Facilities program to allow a rolling application process, lower local match requirements and an expanded scope of eligible projects.

“This is a game-changer for Kansas communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “For decades, we’ve seen too many worthy projects stalled due to rigid deadlines and high local match requirements. By streamlining the process and reducing financial burdens, we’re ensuring that cities and counties — large and small — can bring transformative projects to life.”

The revamped CDBG – Community Facilities program opens the door for projects ranging from emergency sirens and ADA upgrades to new libraries and major park developments. Notably, the transition from an annual competition to a rolling application process means that cities and counties can apply for funding year-round, receiving decisions in a matter of weeks rather than waiting months for a single funding cycle. Additionally, the local match requirement has been reduced from its normal 25% to a 10% match for small projects and 20% for large projects.

“This continues the significant shift in the way the Kansas Department of Commerce is approaching community development” Commerce Assistant Secretary Matthew Godinez said. “In 2024, we rebranded the Community Development Division as the Quality Places Division to better reflect our mission of fostering vibrant, connected and resilient communities. We’re removing bureaucratic roadblocks and getting critical dollars where they’re needed faster. This is about leveling the playing field so that smaller or lower-income communities have a real shot at funding transformational projects.”

Key program enhancements include:

  • Rolling Application Process: Applications will be accepted year-round starting May 1, with monthly reviews and grant agreements executed within five business days of approval.
  • Reduced Match Requirements:
    • Small projects ($50,000 to $210,000) require only a 10% local match.
      • Examples include:
        • Accessibility and ADA Improvements
        • Parks and Recreational Facilities
        • Community Centers and Public Infrastructure
        • Public Safety and Emergency Service
    • Large projects ($210,001 to $1.5 million) require only a 20% local match.
      • Examples include:
        • Public Infrastructure and Facility Development
        • Public Safety and Emergency Services
        • Libraries and Educational Facilities
  • Pre-Application for Readiness Screening: Cities and counties can submit a short pre-application starting April 1, 2025, to gauge project eligibility and receive feedback within five business days. The full application stage opens on May 1, 2025.
  • Flexible Project Categories: Communities can apply for any eligible CDBG-funded project, from public safety improvements to large-scale community facility developments.

By expanding access and accelerating the funding process, the Kansas Department of Commerce is ushering in a new era of community investment across the state.

“This is about empowering Kansas communities,” Toland said. “No longer will cities and counties be forced to wait for a single shot at funding each year. We’re making the process flexible, fair, transparent and focused on results.”

For more information about the CDBG 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.

###

Government, Kansas

KS Launches New Support to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers

1 Comment

Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Launches New Programs to Support Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) recognizes the significant emotional, physical, and financial toll that caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia can take on families. To provide much-needed support, KDADS is launching two new initiatives: the Kansas Respite for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Program (K-RAD) and the Kansas Dementia Roadmap: A Guide for People Impacted by Dementia.

In Kansas, more than 55,000 individuals are living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, and more than 89,000 individuals are providing unpaid care. Families serve as the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities across the nation. According to the 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers report developed by the Recognize, Assist, Include, Support, and Engage (RAISE) Act Family Caregiving Advisory Council and the Advisory Council to Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, gaps in the availability of and access to respite care can add to the stress and burden faced by unpaid caregivers. Respite care often comes with high costs and limited availability, leaving caregivers responsible for most expenses.

Kansas has allocated funding for a state-funded respite program to address these challenges. The K-RAD program offers relief to unpaid caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia by providing temporary care services that replace the direct care given by the caregiver for short or intermittent periods.

“We are excited about the K-RAD program and the ability it provides our agency to help our caregivers with respite care for their loved ones,” Leslea Rockers, Executive Director for East Central Kansas Area Agency on Aging, said.

Caregivers can apply for K-RAD funds to cover respite care costs. More information is available on the KDADS website, and applications can be obtained through local Area Agencies on Aging or by contacting the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-855-200-2372.

Additionally, KDADS has introduced the Kansas Dementia Roadmap: A Guide for People Impacted by Dementia. This resource acknowledges that caring for someone with memory loss or dementia is a long and unpredictable journey. The Roadmap provides essential guidance, support, and information for families, helping them navigate the challenges of dementia care.

“This roadmap will help families navigate their dementia journey so that they won’t become lost in the diagnosis,” Jamie Gideon, Kansas Director of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association, said.

Printed copies of the Kansas Dementia Roadmap are available at local Area Agency on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association offices. A downloadable version is also available at https://www.kdads.ks.gov/services-programs/aging/alzheimer-s-disease-and-dementia/kansas-dementia-roadmap.

###

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson February 14, 2025

Leave a comment
Caryn Tyson

 

The week was slow on the Senate floor in Topeka, but President Trump kept things moving in D.C.  Next week things will pick up because it is turnaround.  It is the half-way point in session. House bills that were never in an exempt committee will die if they do not pass the House by turnaround.  In the Senate, bills that aren’t exempt don’t die, but no more action can be taken on them until next year.  For a bill to be exempt it must have been in the Tax, Federal & State Affairs, or Ways and Means committee in the Senate.  The House exempt committees are Tax, Federal & State Affairs, or Appropriations.   During the week of turnaround, both chambers will be working diligently to pass bills that are non-exempt.

 

More Election protection is the intent of Senate Bill (SB) 5.  It would block wasteful spending by the United States government used to influence elections, such as targeted voter registration.  This money has been sometimes referred to as “Bidenbucks”.  A couple of years ago, I offered an amendment that blocked third party money that was trying to influence elections procedures, it was referred to as Zuckerbucks.  You might remember Mark Zucherburg made donations to election offices trying to influence election procedures.  Kansas law now blocks these types of donations from individuals or companies, SB 5 would block federal money trying to influence election results.  Federal money provided for election security would still be allowed.  It passed on a bipartisan vote 33 to 6.  I voted Yes.

 

Move Over for stopped vehicles displaying hazard warning signal and proceed with caution or you can be fined if SB 5 becomes law.  SB 8 passed the Senate unanimously and is on its way to the House.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

Government, Kansas

Topeka Government Offices Reopen Tomorrow

Leave a comment

Governor Kelly Announces State Offices to Re-Open Thursday for State Employees in Shawnee County

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday that she has ordered state offices in Shawnee County to re-open on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. Governor Kelly previously ordered state offices in Shawnee County closed on Wednesday due to safety concerns regarding potentially hazardous conditions resulting from the winter storm.

“Thanks to the hard work of crews, roadway conditions have improved, and state offices will return to normal operations on Thursday,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Please exercise caution when traveling and continue to give crews the necessary space as they keep working to clear roadways.”

All non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction who work in Shawnee County are required to report to work as normal.

For continuously updated road information, go to www.KanDrive.gov and click on the Road Condition map. Other construction information, camera views, weather websites and travel details are also available. You can also call 511 – for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

                                                            ###

 

Government, Kansas

Ks Senator Caryn Tyson’s Weekly Legislative Report

2 Comments
Caryn Tyson

 

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

February 7, 2025

 

Property Taxes are high, and most people would agree the system is not always accurate or fair, so the Senate acted by passing a constitutional amendment, Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 1603, to limit taxable valuation increases of real property to a maximum of 3% a year, unless certain triggers occur. Local governments often rely on skyrocketing valuations to collect more property taxes.  SCR 1603 would limit the tax value of real properties so local governments would have to vote to raise the mill levy, providing more transparency to property tax increases.

 

The SCR would have to pass the House and then voters would decide to amend the Kansas Constitution and limit taxable valuation increases each year or not.  It passed the Senate on a bipartisan vote 28 to 11.  I voted yes.

 

Election ends on election day, SB 4, would require all ballots to be returned by 7 p.m. on election, not three days later.  It passed the Senate 29 to 10.  I voted yes.

 

Rank choice voting, where you can rate the candidates on the ballot by selecting your first choice, your second choice, your third chose and so on, would be banned in Kansas if SB 6 becomes law.  It is a voting system in which the candidates are ranked when you vote.  It’s difficult to count and can delay election results.  SB 6 passed 29 to 10.  I voted yes to ban this election system in Kansas.

 

Budgets can be used for political volley.  It’s disappointing but it does happen.  To correct this, the Senate passed Senate Bill (SB) 14 so that if a budget is not passed into law by June 30th, then the state government would not shut down because the previous year’s budget would be adopted.  It passed the Senate 31 to 8.  I supported this effort.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Divisive Legislation

2 Comments


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday vetoed Senate Bill 63.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 63:

“Right now, the Legislature should be focused on ways to help Kansans cope with rising prices. That is the most important issue for Kansans. That is where my focus is.

“Infringing on parental rights is not appropriate, nor is it a Kansas value. As I’ve said before, it is not the job of politicians to stand between a parent and a child who needs medical care of any kind. This legislation will also drive families, businesses, and health care workers out of our state, stifling our economy and exacerbating our workforce shortage issue.

“It is disappointing that the Legislature continues to push for government interference in Kansans’ private medical decisions instead of focusing on issues that improve all Kansans’ lives.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 63.”

###

Government, Kansas

State Offices in Topeka Will Be Closed Tomorrow

Leave a comment

Governor Kelly Orders State Office Buildings
in Shawnee County Closed Wednesday
Due to Inclement Weather


TOPEKA – Due to safety concerns regarding winter weather conditions resulting from the approaching winter storm, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to be closed on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025.

The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, and lasts through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12. A reassessment of weather conditions will be made on Wednesday to determine if the declaration will be extended further.

“In anticipation of a winter storm impacting state operations, we are closing state office buildings in Shawnee County on Wednesday,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “As I have done in the past, I urge all Kansans to exercise increased caution when driving and to take measures to make sure their families are prepared for potentially hazardous winter storm conditions by making an emergency plan and a home emergency kit.”

This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in the Executive Branch agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction who work in Shawnee County. Appointing authorities in offices located outside Shawnee County have the option to declare Inclement Weather for those counties.

During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather. Remote work is not being required.

For continuously updated road information, go to www.KanDrive.org and click on the Road Condition map. Other construction information, camera views, weather websites and travel details are also available. You can also call 511 – for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

###

Government, Kansas

KDHE Takes Lead on Youth Risk Behavior Survey for Kansas Highschoolers

Leave a comment

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announces that it will be responsible for administering the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) across Kansas. The YRBS is a vital tool that gathers data on the health behaviors of high school students in Kansas. It provides essential insights into the challenges facing today’s youth and paves the way for programs and policies that promote their well-being.

First completed in 1990, the YRBS is a nationwide survey conducted every two years. Its purpose is to monitor specific behaviors that can significantly impact the health and safety of adolescents in Kansas.

“By understanding these behaviors, KDHE can work with school and community leaders to develop targeted interventions and programs to address the unique needs of Kansas youth,” said Grace Harvey, YRBS School Survey Coordinator, “Taking on the administration of the YRBS reflects our commitment to supporting Kansas youth and addressing the factors that impact their health and safety.”

For years, the YRBS in Kansas was overseen by the Kansas State Department of Education. Now, KDHE is honored to continue this critical work. This transition will enable KDHE to directly integrate survey findings into the state’s public health initiatives, ensuring a seamless connection between data and action.

The YRBS captures data on a variety of topics, including:

  • Nutrition, physical activity and weight status
  • Bullying
  • Mental health and suicide
  • Tobacco, alcohol and drug use
  • Sexual behaviors that could lead to STDs, HIV, or unintended pregnancy
  • Behaviors contributing to unintentional injuries or violence

The YRBS is currently conducted in 50 randomly selected high schools across the state, with students in grades 9-12 anonymously participating. To protect privacy, no personal identifiers are collected, and participation is voluntary. KDHE will work directly with the participating schools to get active parental consent from each participating student. Schools will work closely with a designated YRBS coordinator to ensure the process is smooth and minimally disruptive. Each survey takes just one class period to complete.

KDHE is looking forward to leading this important initiative and is committed to using the YRBS insights to improve the lives of Kansas youth. By working collaboratively with schools, parents and community partners, we can turn data into meaningful action, fostering a healthier and brighter future for the next generation.

To learn more, visit the KDHE website.

###

Gordon Parks Museum, History, Kansas

“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” Rescheduled to Feb. 14

Leave a comment

 

 

 

Presentation Explores the History of Baseball in Kansas

Rescheduled Due to Forecasted Weather

 

Fort Scott, Kan. With the potential winter storm that is forecasted for this Wednesday, Feb 12, the Gordon Parks Museum hosted event “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime,” a presentation and discussion by Phil Dixon is rescheduled to Friday, February 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at The Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton St. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.

 

This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with desserts provided by Great West Dining. Drinks and chips will also be provided. Fort Scott T-Mobile will also have a table set up for free raffle drawing for a chance for the attendees to win T-Mobile prizes.

 

“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas City Monarchs” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.

 

2020 marked two major milestones for baseball: the Negro Leagues celebrated their 100th anniversary and Major League Baseball merged statistics of these African American players with those of the major league. The history of Negro League baseball in America mirrors the racial strife experienced by African Americans in society. It was plagued by discrimination, racism, and inequity, while its athletes were celebrated for their resiliency, professionalism, and athleticism. The Kansas City Monarchs barnstormed across Kansas and the region to play more than 400 games between 1920 and 1957 against local towns. This talk sheds new light on this sports history and the history of baseball in Kansas.

 

Phil S. Dixon a co-founder of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. He is the author of nine books about baseball, including biographies about Wilber “Bullet” Rogan and John “Buck” O’Neil. In the course of his research, he has interviewed over 500 former Negro League players and family members.

 

“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” is part of Humanities Kansas’s Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.

 

For more information about “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” in Fort Scott, Kansas, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext.5850 or visit gordonparkscenter.org.

 

About Humanities Kansas

Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.

 

###

 

Government, Kansas

Seven Kansas Non-profits Awarded Big Game Hunting Permits for Fundraising

Leave a comment

 

PRATT – Seven lucky conservation organizations are set to receive Commission Big Game Hunting Permits after their applications were drawn by Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commissioners during the January 30th public meeting. The Commission Big Game Hunting Permit program allows Kansas-based non-profit organizations that focus on wildlife conservation and promoting the hunting and fishing heritage to apply for one of seven permits. The permits can then be sold by the winning group to raise funds for conservation projects in Kansas. The winning organizations typically raffle or auction the permit to the highest bidder and keep 15 percent of the sale price to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) until a mutually agreed upon conservation project is approved.

“Last year, proceeds from Commission permits supported the Habitat Specialist program which is one of our key conservation partnerships with Pheasants Forever,” said Wes Sowards, assistant director of the wildlife division at KDWP. “Habitat specialists work across the state to manage wildlife habitat on both private and public land with a special emphasis on conservation objectives in the State Wildlife Action Plan.”

“These habitat specialists are the true heroes in our eyes,” said Bob Hix, a regional representative from Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “The Kansas Pheasants Forever habitat team and the local chapters are committed to doing even more habitat work for all wildlife in Kansas.”

Other projects supported by the Commissioner permit proceeds have included wetland improvement at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area and special youth hunt programs.

“Ducks Unlimited is honored to receive these Commission permits which have been part of an ongoing and hugely successful partnership between DU and KDWP,” said Matt Hough, Kansas conservation programs manager for Ducks Unlimited. “Proceeds from these permits will be put to great use for priority projects of both organizations for the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl habitat that also provide public benefits to the people of Kansas.”

Based on applicant preference, seven deer permits were awarded to the following conservation groups for 2025:

Ducks Unlimited Wyandotte Chapter
Mike Bulk
785-294-1280
[email protected]

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Kansas Chapter
Marshal Loftus
816-489-1023
[email protected]

Kansas Bowhunters Association
Jamie Howarter
[email protected]

Ducks Unlimited Kansas University Chapter
Mike Bulk
785-294-1280
[email protected]

Pheasants Forever Stanton County Chapter
Bob Hix
303-588-1542
[email protected]

Pheasants Forever Osborne Chapter
Bob Hix
303-588-1542
[email protected]

National Wild Turkey Foundation Salty Spurs Chapter
Nate Watson
505-401-6474
[email protected]

Members of the public are encouraged to contact the representatives listed to learn when and where each of these permits will be auctioned or raffled in the future.

Complete rules for the Commission Big Game Permits can be found at ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Commission.

###

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.

The seven-member, non-partisan Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission serves in an advisory capacity in formulating policies and plans for KDWP. The commission facilitates public hearings on rules and regulations proposed by the Secretary of KDWP, ultimately voting to approve, modify, or reject those proposed rules and regulations. The Commission Big Game Permits are authorized by K.S.A. 32-970.

 

Government, Kansas

Public Hearing on Evergy’s Request to Recover Costs

Leave a comment

KCC schedules public hearing and comment period on Evergy’s
request to recover costs for new gas plants and solar facility

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has scheduled a virtual public hearing beginning at 6 p.m. on March 5th to provide Evergy Kansas customers across the state with information about three proposed new generation investments (two combined cycle gas-fired generating turbine plants and one solar facility). One gas plant would be located near Evergy’s Viola Substation in Sumner County and the second near Hutchinson in Reno County. The Kansas Sky solar facility would be located in Douglas County. The Commission will also provide an opportunity for public comments during the hearing.

Evergy filed an application with the KCC requesting a predetermination of the prudency of the investments and whether the company would be entitled to recover the costs of the investments and under what terms. Evergy has asked to recover the cost of construction work in progress (CWIP) and in a future rate proceeding will ask for recovery of the investments after they are in service, which is expected at the end of 2026 for the solar facility and 2029 and 2030 for the gas plants.

To participate in the virtual hearing via Zoom and make a public comment, advance registration is required by noon on March 4. For persons wishing to watch, but not comment during the public hearing, a live video stream will be available on the KCC YouTube channel. The hearing will also be recorded for later viewing.

In addition to the hearing, the Commission will accept written comments through 5 p.m. on April 7. Comments may be submitted online, by mail or by calling the KCC at 785-271-3140 or 800-662-0027.

To register for the virtual hearing, make a public comment online or find additional information on the application, go to the Commission’s website (www.kcc.ks.gov) and click on the “Your Opinion Matters” tab.

The Commission will issue an order on the application on or before July 7, 2025.

###