Category Archives: Kansas

Food, Government, Kansas, Youth

KDA Extends Summer Youth Food Program

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DCF Announces Application Deadline Extension for Summer EBT Program

Application deadline is now 5 p.m. on October 15

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is extending the application deadline for the 2024 Summer EBT program, a new federal program designed to help eligible families offset some of the costs of buying food for their school-aged children during the summer.

Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks in other states, is a partnership between DCF, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, and the Kansas Department of Education. The program provides families a one-time installment of $120 per each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries over the summer. Applications will be accepted through the DCF online self-service portal, dcfapp.kees.ks.gov, until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024. Families will need to use their existing account through the DCF self-service portal or create an account to apply.

Since July 2024, about 117,200 students have received the one-time $120 Summer EBT benefit through an auto-issuance, and DCF has received more than 2,000 applications. For families with children receiving food assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and/or foster care benefits, the Summer EBT benefit was automatically added to existing households’ Kansas Benefits Cards (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to the home. DCF estimates there could be more than 100,000 children who did not automatically receive the benefit but may be eligible.

Eligibility:

Children may be eligible for the program if:

  • The child attended a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income met the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point during the 2023-24 school year.

Or

  • the school-aged child (7-17 years old) received food assistance, TANF, and/or foster care benefits at any point during the 2023-24 school year. (Summer EBT benefits were auto-issued to these households in July 2024.)

“While Summer EBT is intended to help offset the cost of food during summer break when kids don’t have access to the free or reduced-price meals they get at school, even with children already back in class the program can still provide families with a little extra help in putting food on their tables,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “We hope that by extending the application deadline, more families with eligible children will have the opportunity to apply for this year’s Summer EBT benefit.”

Application:

Families with children who did not receive the Summer EBT benefit by the end of July 2024 should apply through the online self-service portal, dcfapp.kees.ks.gov. The application deadline is 5 p.m. on Oct. 15, 2024.

Learn more about the Summer EBT program at dcf.ks.gov.

Government, Kansas

Phone/Internet Services Assistance

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Lifeline helps low-income Kansans 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 Lifeline Awareness Week, September 8-14, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in creating awareness of the Lifeline program and encourages those in need of assistance to apply.

Lifeline provides 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 million Americans, including 23,000 in Kansas, 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

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

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Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Announces August Total Tax Collections Surpass Estimate by Nearly $23M

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the August 2024 total tax collections were $665.6 million. That is $22.8 million, or 3.5% more than the estimate. Total tax collections are up 4.0% from August 2023.

“While we are seeing collections higher than the estimate, we likely won’t see the impact of the income tax cuts from Senate Bill 1 on monthly collections until the beginning of next year,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Because of that timing, we must continue to be fiscally responsible for our long-term outlook.”

Individual income tax collections were $329.4 million, which is $19.4 million, or 6.3% more than the estimate and up 10.1% from August 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $20.2 million, which is $9.8 million, or 32.8% less than the estimate and down 19.7% from August 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $294.6 million, which is $12.6 million, or 4.5% more than the estimate and up $2.2 million, or 0.7% from August 2023.

Click here to view the August 2024 revenue numbers.

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Fort Scott, Government, Kansas, Youth

Kansas Dept. of Children and Families New Building To Open Soon In Fort Scott

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The Department of Children and Families, National Avenue and Wall Street, August 2024, a new multi-million dollar investment in Fort Scott’s downtown area will open soon.

 

The new  Department of Children and Families building is located at  National Avenue and Wall Street and is 13, 642 square feet.

 

“The new building will include safety features to protect employees and clients such as secure interview rooms, electronic access management system, a video surveillance system and other office renovations to suit the functionality and needs of DCF,” said Anita Cooper, Southeast Regional Director for the Kansas Department for Children and Families.

Taken from X.com

“A more centralized location will make it easier for residents in Fort Scott and the surrounding area to access the service center,” she said. “The new building puts us back in the downtown area where we were originally located. We are excited to be a part of the downtown community! ”

 

The Kansas Department for Children and Families offers a wide range of programs and services to help vulnerable Kansans.

 

“As of May 2024 (the most recent report), the total number of households in Bourbon County served by DCF was 878,” Cooper said. “That includes 21 served by the Temporary Assistance to Needing Families (TANF) program, 817 served by food assistance (FA) and 40 served by child care assistance (CC). The Fort Scott office also manages the cases for people living in Linn County. Total households served in Linn County: 419 (5 TANF, 402 FA and 12 CC). In addition, Child Protection Services provides child and family well-being services to approximately 417 families a year out of our Fort Scott office.”

There are 29 staff members based out of the Fort Scott office with hours of operation are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The new building is located at 10 S. National Ave., Fort Scott. The phone, fax, etc. will all remain the same numbers when they move in, in the next month.

“We are leasing our current office location at the Fort Scott Professional Building, 710 W. 8th St. We’ve been in this location since 2009. The new building will be leased as well through SilverRock Ventures, LLC based out of Junction City,” Cooper said.

 

Kendall Schoenrock, of  SilverRock Ventures, is the

owner and builder of the building.

Submitted graphic.

“We will own it and it is leased to the State of Kansas Department for Children and Families,” Schoenrock said. “The State will look to take occupancy (of 10 S. National Avenue) in the next four weeks or so.”

Schoenrock purchased the property on August 31, 2023, which was originally known as the Downtowner Hotel building.

“This project is very important for the State of Kansas, to retain jobs in Fort Scott,” Schoenrock said in a prior interview https://fortscott.biz/news/ks-department-of-children-and-families-office-building-is-being-built-at-wall-and-national-avenue. “They could have moved the DCF to another community. In addition, it will spur money for retail and restaurants in the downtown area.”

“This project will get a lot of people for downtown businesses,” he said. “They will eat downtown, shop downtown, etc.”

The demolition was done by Skitch’s Hauling and Excavating, Inc.

After demolition was completed, his team got to work putting the building on the south side of the lot, with parking on the north.

“Many people helped make this happen,” he said. “Bailey Lyons with Lyons Realty Group, Rob Harrington with Bourbon County Regional Economic Development and Brad Matkin and Matthew Wells, with the city. And Arnold Scholfield with the Fort Scott Design Review Board provided good, solid feedback for the project.”

“They should be praised,” he said. “Fort Scott has been very supportive. I couldn’t have asked for more support from the city. That’s what is needed to spur development.”

Name In Stone

There is a name in stone on the north facade of the new building in honor of a SilverRock employee who died on this job site this year.
Mike Anders. Submitted photo.
“Mike Anders was a long-time employee and close friend,” Schoenrock said. “Sadly he passed away on the job site on April 4th, 2024. It was not work-related.”
Government, Kansas

KS Governor Signs Tax Cuts Package

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Governor Kelly Ceremonially Signs
Comprehensive Tax Cuts Package in Olathe


OLATHE— Governor Laura Kelly today ceremonially signed Senate Bill 1, the bipartisan sustainable tax cuts package, in Olathe. The bill comprehensively cuts Kansans taxes while ensuring the state’s long-term fiscal health.

“Kansans can expect to see meaningful tax cuts and can rest assured they will not threaten our ability to continue fully funding essential services,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This bipartisan bill delivers the tax relief Kansans needed, deserved, and that our state could afford.”

Senate Bill 1, passed with bipartisan support and signed by Governor Kelly in June, provides Kansans with nearly $2 billion in tax cuts over the next 5 years. The bill completely eliminates state taxes on Social Security income, saving Kansas retirees $152 million in the first year alone.

The bill also reduces property taxes by increasing the residential property tax exemption to $75,000. Residential property owners will save more than $236 million over 5 years. Additionally, the bill reduces income taxes while increasing the standard deduction and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.

“By responsibly reducing property and income taxes, we’re implementing comprehensive tax cuts that all Kansans will feel the impact of,” said Kansas State Senator Rob Olson, District 23. “I’m proud to have worked with Governor Kelly and lawmakers of both parties to get this bipartisan package across the finish line.”

Government, Kansas

Public Input Needed on Safe Routes to Schools

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Survey, focus groups will help guide future

Safe Routes to School efforts in Kansas
The Kansas Department of Transportation is offering the public two ways to provide input on the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program – an on-line survey and virtual webinars. Information gathered will help direct future programs and recommendations

Getting more kids walking, biking and rolling to school, improving safety and increasing health and physical activity are the goals of SRTS. This can reduce traffic, improve air quality and reduce costs for families.

Anyone can take the survey, especially parents, city employees, school staff and SRTS practitioners and advocates. The survey will take about 15 minutes and is at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7953400/KDOT-SRTS-2024. The deadline to participate is Sept. 30.

For Kansas SRTS program information or to sign up for the quarterly newsletter, go to https://saferoutes.ksdot.gov/.

Four virtual webinars will take place in September for those interested in implementing SRTS activities such as public health practitioners, city/county planners/engineers, school administrators/teachers and parents. Click on the group and date/time (all CST) below to register:

  • Public health (10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 11) – click HERE to register.
  • PTO, parents (1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 11) – click HERE to register.
  • School administrators, teachers (3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Sept. 11) – click HERE to register.
  • City/county planners, engineers (10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 12) – click HERE to register.

Contact Ann Katt, Safe Routes to School Coordinator, at [email protected] for webinar questions.

Safe Routes to School provides students and caregivers with skills and encouragement through activities, events and lessons while also addressing local pedestrian, bicycle, and personal safety concerns.

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Government, Kansas

KDOT requesting comments on STIP amendment

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The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2024-2027 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) document.

The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System. The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp.

The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes Sept. 4. To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at (785) 296-3254.

This information is available in alternative accessible formats. To obtain an alternative format, contact the KDOT Division of Communications, (785) 296-3585 (Voice/Hearing Impaired-711).
Government, Kansas

KDOT accepting applications for Innovative Technology Program

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KDOT accepting applications for Innovative Technology Program
The Kansas Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the fall 2024 round of the agency’s Innovative Technology Program.

The Innovative Technology Program provides financial assistance to governmental and non-governmental organizations for innovative transportation-related projects that promote safety, improve access or mobility and implement new transportation technology.

“Innovative technology” is broadly defined as any technology that does not currently exist in the local community of the project. This allows local communities to determine what projects to submit based on their specific needs.

All transportation system projects are eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, aviation, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), bicycle/pedestrian, public transit, software and technology infrastructure. Candidate projects should include investments that provide transportation benefits and are not eligible for other KDOT programs. This round of grant funding has an overall budget of $2 million, with a maximum awarded amount of $1 million per project.

A project concept must be submitted and approved by KDOT before an application is provided to the applicant. The project concepts deadline is Nov. 17, and the application deadline is Nov. 30. A facts sheet is available on the program at https://www.ksdot.gov/Assets/wwwksdotorg/bureaus/divInnovTech/Innovative_Technology_FactSheet.pdf. For the project concept submission form, go to https://forms.microsoft.com/g/FThTTFKQ5s. Both documents are on KDOT’s internet.

A few past approved projects include Truck Driving Simulators for the CDL Program expansion at Seward County Community College, an AI-Based Road Condition Assessment in the City of El Dorado and a UAS Flight Operations and Simulation Center for Kansas State University – Salina.

Please contact Matt Stormer, [email protected], with any questions.
Government, Kansas

New “To the Stars” Standard License Plate to Begin Appearing on Kansas Vehicles

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Revenue announced today that the new standard license plate design, “To the Stars,” is now available. The new design was overwhelmingly chosen by Kansans in a December 2023 public vote, winning 53% of the total vote. The “To the Stars” design will replace the current “Ad Astra” standard license plate designs.

"To the Stars" LP

“To the Stars” design

The design features the Kansas Statehouse Dome within a cutout of the state set against a blue, white, and yellow gradient background. Paying tribute to our state motto, “Ad Astra per Aspera,” the phrase “To the Stars” is inscribed along the bottom of the design.

The new design will be used for all new plate issuances, including replacements for any remaining embossed plates. Kansans, who were issued a plate with the “Ad Astra” design as the replacement for their embossed plate, will not be reissued another plate with the new design. However, any Kansan who has the “Ad Astra” design but wants the “To the Stars” design can visit their local county treasurer’s office to transfer their registration to a plate with the new design.

More information on the ongoing embossed plate replacement project can be found at https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovnewplate.html

Government, Jobs, Kansas

August Virtual Job Fair Offers Kansas Jobseekers Hundreds of Opportunities

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland is encouraging both jobseekers and employers searching for new talent to participate in the August Virtual Statewide Job Fair. Hosted by KANSASWORKS, the job fair will be from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21.

“Over the last five years, Kansas has been very strategic and purposeful when it comes to growing our economy. We are one of the top states for economic development and we’re bringing more jobs to our state than ever before,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “There is no better time than right now to explore the many career opportunities spread out across the state.”

The Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseekers training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professional, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in the virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

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.

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Government, Kansas

Kansas Department of Revenue Reveals Winning Personalized License Plate Design

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Revenue revealed today the next design of the Kansas personalized license plate. Five designs were put up for public vote online earlier this month. After more than 30,000 votes were cast, Kansans across the state chose the design showcasing the iconic Flint Hills as the next personalized license plate design. The Flint Hills design emerged as the clear favorite, receiving over 56% of the vote.

Flint Hills

“We are excited to reveal the next Kansas personalized plate design and will now work to get the design ready for production and for Kansans to purchase in 2025,” KDOR Division of Vehicles Director David Harper said.

When the new design is available, Kansans can visit their local county treasurer’s office to purchase the new plate for $45.50.

The “Powering the Future” personalized plate design will no longer be available after Jan. 1, 2025. Kansans, who currently have this design, must replace their plate during their next renewal period to keep their personalized plate text.

To check the availability of personalized plate text, visit www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/MotorVehicles

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Government, Kansas

Cost Share Program for Kansas Communities Construction Projects Is Accepting Applications

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KDOT’s Cost Share Program applications being accepted
The Kansas Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the fall 2024 round of the agency’s Cost Share Program. More than $146 million has been given to Kansas communities since the Cost Share Program began in 2019.

The Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for construction projects that improve safety, leverage state funds to increase total transportation investment and help both rural and urban areas of the state improve the transportation system. This is the 10th round of projects to receive funding.

“KDOT’s Cost Share Program improves transportation, creates economic growth and increases job opportunities across Kansas,” said Michelle Needham, Economic Development Programs Manager. “Past Cost Share participants have proven this program to be the financial boost that many small and large communities needed to achieve their project goals.”

An informational webinar will take place at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21. The application process will be discussed, and attendees can ask questions. To register, go to: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUkcuCqpjouHNfVbHtMpMQ0KiV25a0zYKOI#/registration

All transportation projects are eligible, including roadway (on and off the state system), rail, airport, bicycle/pedestrian and public transit. Candidate projects should include investments that provide transportation benefits and are not eligible for other KDOT programs. This round of grant funding has an overall budget of $6 million, with a maximum awarded amount of $1 million per project.

The deadline to submit applications is Sept. 19. More information and the application link are on KDOT’s website at http://www.ksdot.org/CostShare/CostShareProgram.asp. Applications will be completed online, and a sample PDF application is available.

Please contact Needham, [email protected], with any questions.