KS Supreme Court creates ad hoc committee for well-being in law
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KDHE Announces the Beginning of the Harmful Algal Bloom Season
TOPEKA –The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) are announcing the beginning of the Harmful Algal Bloom season.
The water recreation season in Kansas officially runs from April 1 to October 31, as do the harmful algae blooms (HAB) response program’s active operations. Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in activities taking place in or on the water, such as swimming, boating, and fishing.
A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g., direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.
If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported as soon as possible at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.
Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:
A Hazard status indicates that a HAB is present, and extreme conditions exist.
When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
- Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
- It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.
- In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.
- In zoned lakes, if a lake zone is issued at a Hazard level, all other adjacent lake zones may be recommended for an advisory status dependent on lake conditions.
A Warning status indicates that a HAB is expected or present.
When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
- Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
- Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
- Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
- Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
- Water contact should be avoided.
- Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
- Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
- If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
- Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.
A Watch status means that a HAB is possible and may be present.
During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:
- Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
- Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
- Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
- Swimming, wading, skiing, and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
- Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
- Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.
Advisories are Lifted when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.
KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE and KDWP report on potentially harmful conditions.
If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps, or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a HAB or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.
For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential HAB’s, please visit kdhe.ks.gov/HAB and view our interactive story and informative video.
In late 2024, the KDHE HAB response program identified a new and evolving health concern at a Kansas public waterbody associated with another species and growth form of blue-green algae, Harmful Algal Mats (HAMs). HAMs are blue-green algae that grow attached to the bottom of the waterbody or other surfaces. However, these blue-green algae mats can become detached and float or wash up on shore. In addition, HAMs can be mixed with non-harmful green algae and other aquatic vegetation.
HABs and HAMs can produce the same toxins, but their growth types are different, as do the advisory messages and signage issued for them. HABs are composed of high densities of usually small, microscopic blue-green algae dispersed in the water column that can change the color of water and often form a surface scum, especially during warmer months. HABs can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. On the other hand, HAMs can reside in water that looks clear and clean and may often appear as excess growth that is brown or black in color that carpets the bottom of the waterbody or other surfaces. HAMs may continue to persist and grow year-round in affected waterbodies.
The health risk from HAMs is greatest when exposure occurs through ingestion and when contact or disturbance of algal mat material occurs (particularly for small children and dogs). KDHE HAB Response Program will notify public waterbody managers if HAMs are detected at the waterbody while responding to algae bloom complaints and recommend that signage be posted.
If you notice HAM signage posted at the waterbody or excess algal growth that appears black or brown in color, be aware that potential health risks may be present when engaging in recreational activities. KDHE HAB Response Program recommends the following precautions be taken at HAM affected waters:
- Do not allow people or pets to eat algal mats or ingest lake water.
- Do not touch or contact algal mats. Use caution when engaging in recreational activities, especially primary contact recreation, such as swimming. Wash with clean water after skin contact with lake water.
- Do not transport algal mats to other waterbodies and follow KDWP’s guidance for cleaning boats and equipment.
For more information on Harmful Algal Mats, please visit:www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAM
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Fort Scott Swim Pass Scholarship Applications Are Available
The Bourbon County Coalition would like to announce that the 2025 Family Swim Pass Scholarship Applications are ready to pick up. They are located at the Beacon and Buck Run Community Center. They can be filled out and returned to either location. Any questions can be pointed to our email, bourboncountycoalition@
Submitted by Travis Wilcoxen
To apply:
Nevada Clinic and Hospital Open Following Storm Damage
NowCare clinic is open & available to see patients today. in Nevada, MO.
The hospital is open with limited services due to power outages. The Emergency Room is staffed with additional help to assist with triage of patients needing care.
Jennifer Eaton
Executive Assistant to CEO
Community Relations/Marketing
Foundation Director
Office: (417) 448-3710
Fax: (417) 448-3848
800 South Ash
Nevada, MO 64772
Nevada Regional Medical Center
Governor Kelly Hosts Roundtable Focused on Post-Military Employment in Kansas
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland recently participated in a roundtable surrounding the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program and the efforts taking place at Commerce to grow the workforce and elevate the Kansas economy.
“Military values are Kansas values,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Our troops dedicate years of their lives serving our nation — and Kansas is committed to easing their transition back to civilian life by connecting them and their families to lucrative careers.”
At the event, Commerce and DoD professionals discussed the importance of workforce resources specifically targeted to veterans seeking employment following their successful military service.
The roundtable also featured leadership and professionals from Kansas Military Affairs, Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, McConnell Air Force, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Hiring Our Heros. The discussions focused on the approaches necessary to foster economic opportunities for veterans, service members and military spouses in Kansas.
“SkillBridge is an important tool we can leverage with employers to get transitioning service members into lucrative careers as soon as possible — and make sure we keep them in our state for years to come,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “We have outstanding service members already here — and excellent employers willing to invest in strong talent pipelines. Quite simply, Kansas is the ideal place to foster SkillBridge success.”
The DoD SkillBridge program assists veterans with post-military employment opportunities such as training, apprenticeships and internships that prepare them for permanent employment at the conclusion of their service. Participating service members are granted up to 180 days as their separation date approaches to focus solely on training and gaining in-demand work experience.
“Hiring veterans after they complete their time in the military is not only the right thing to do, it allows companies to benefit from the value and skills they bring to the table,” Vice President of Hiring our Heroes at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and SkillBridge Advisor Elizabeth O’Brien said. “We’ve been impressed with Kansas’ commitment to pairing its workforce resources with DoD’s efforts – and become a top five state in retention through the SkillBridge program.”
With economic opportunities expanding in Kansas and an already established focus on post-military education and employment, Kansas is an ideal partner for elevating the work of the SkillBridge program and growing the workforce pipeline in Kansas.
To learn more about the SkillBridge program, visit here.
Interested in learning more about KANSASWORKS and employment resources? 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 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.
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Upper Floor Housing Grants Available For Main Street Communities
Commerce Offers Funding Opportunities for Upper Floor Housing in Main Street Communities
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $250,000 is available under the Residential Opportunities on Main Street (ROOMS) grant program to support new upper-floor housing in commercial buildings in Designated Kansas Main Street communities.
“Last year’s initial round of ROOMS funding resulted in 34 new housing units across the state and nearly $6 million in total investment,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Another year of funding allows for us to continue breathing life into communities across this state and growing economic opportunities for generations to come.”
Upper-floor investments play an important role in addressing the affordable and quality housing shortage, which regularly is identified as a major issue throughout Kansas. Upper-floor housing enhances the overall livability and functionality of downtowns. It also can lead to increased investment, improved infrastructure, a positive cycle of economic growth, a stronger tax base, and a greater sense of place and community identity.
“The Kansas Main Street program has worked to help communities build their capacity in developing upper-floor housing in downtown buildings,” Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said. “Housing in these historic buildings downtown helps generate excitement and vitality in the area while restoring buildings to maximize their full use. ROOMS grants help these types of projects become reality.”
ROOMS funds will be available to applicants within active Designated Kansas Main Street communities for projects that can be shown to lead directly to housing creation or retention in upper floors of existing buildings in downtown areas. Projects must incorporate Main Street design standards and follow local ordinances and codes for improvements.
More details about ROOMS can be found here. For more information about the Kansas Main Street 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.
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Letter to the Editor: Loreta Jent
Dear Editor:
Much is being said of late about taking care of our health. However, we’ve often heard this: “It’s my body, I can do what I want with it!” Let’s consider what God has to say through the apostle Paul to followers of Jesus Christ in 1 Corinthians 6:19. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union considers April’s Alcohol Awareness Month a good time to be reminded that alcohol is a toxic poison. Alcohol affects all parts of the body regardless of the amount consumed. I’m thankful that health organizations are speaking out more on this fact lately.
God has much to say about alcohol. Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler, whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” We might want to consider what often leads people astray!
The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom. Here’s more on the subject from Proverbs 23:31-32: “Do not gaze on wine when it is red, When it sparkles in the cup, When it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.”
From a recovering alcoholic comes this quote, “Sobriety is a lifestyle upgrade!” Wouldn’t avoiding alcohol completely be a healthy lifestyle upgrade?!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Loreta Jent,
National WCTU Education Director
County Commissioners discuss zoning, tax sales, auctions
Two commissioners, Brandon Whisenhunt and David Beerbower, met to conduct county business, as District 3’s, seat is currently vacant.
Old Business
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Govdeals.com
Beerbower brought up a complaint he had received from a local auction service regarding the commission’s decision to use Govdeals.com to sell the used medical equipment from the old hospital. He expressed concern about following due process to find an auctioneer for the proceedings and give local businesses a chance to earn the county’s business. Originally, the auction for the old hospital equipment was going to be conducted by the county, but at the last commissioners meeting, they voted to use the online auction service.
Govdeals.com charges a buyer premium, offering their services at no cost to Bourbon County.
“We might also owe it to the constituents of our county to get the most bang for your buck,” said an audience member at the meeting.
Whisenhunt who had also spoken to the local auction service provider, wants to get the sale done as soon as possible, and not take the time to publish for bids, which would add at least two weeks to the current timeline for the sale of the equipment. “So I guess we’re at a stalemate.”
Bob Johnson, county counsel said that a lot of counties just use an online auction service.
After going over the last meeting’s minutes and confirming the commissions decision to hire Govdeals.com at that time, Whisenhunt made motion to sign the MOU with Govdeals.com to sell the old hospital equipment, less the items going to the Mapleton clinic. Beerbower seconded and the motion passed.
Regarding local businesses working with the county, Whisenhunt said, “I would recommend that anybody that has a small business that thinks they might ever do business with the county bring their contact information to the courthouse so we have a list.”
Greg Post, representing Friends of Mapleton and the clinic there, spoke to the commission. There are six small items in the hospital equipment sale that they want to lend-lease from the county, which would be a benefit to Bourbon County residents.
Whisenhunt and Beerbower both said they would be glad to donate the items to the clinic. They instructed Johnson to draw up a donation agreement with the clinic, which will state that the items will be returned to the county if the clinic ever doesn’t need them.
Fence viewing discussion
Beerbower said that since initial discussion a few weeks ago, other citizens have contacted him about it. The statute shows that the commissioners do owe some kind of service. He suggested a designee from the county be assigned to the job. There has to be one designee per commissioner, per the statute, according to Johnson.
Beerbower said the parties asking for the commission to view their fences are in his district. Whisenhunt needs to direct someone to go in his stead, because if they both go it’s a open meeting which must be published, said Johnson.
“I’ve been representing counties for 25 years and I’ve never had this come up,” said Johnson. He offered to put a memo together to help inform the commissioners fully of their obligations.
The item will also be on the next commission agenda.
Sheriff’s Tax Sale
Michael Hoyt spoke to the commission as a member of the Fort Scott Land Bank board. He encouraged the commission to use the services of attorney Christopher McElgunn with the firm of Klenda Austerman to conduct the county’s sales of properties with delinquent taxes.
He also advised the commission to have regular tax sales to incentivize citizens to pay their taxes and avoid loss of their property.
Susan Walker, County Clerk said that right now the county has about 150 properties ready for tax sale.
Whisenhunt made a motion to hire Klenda Austerman, an attorney at law, to handle the tax sales of properties. It was approved.
New Business
Zoning Discussion
Beerbower took over the handling of county zoning from Leroy Kruger when Kruger resigned two weeks ago. He said the county currently has two staff members, assigned by the previous commission, working on a plan. They also have some Allen County zoning examples to look at.
Beerbower has also met with a couple of citizens about the topic. “I’d like to see us go ahead an panel a group of citizens.” Preferably from each of the districts, depending on the letters of interested received. This would not be a voting panel, but for research to present a working plan to the commission. There will be zoning, this is to inform what kind of zoning it will be.
Whisenhunt asked the county was ready for this step. “I think we need to wait until we have a third person on the commission.”
An audience member spoke up to say this is only exploratory, information gathering step. It’s not an item to be voted on. Once a third commissioner is on there, then the zoning decisions can be completed. She is frustrated that no progress has been made on zoning since the new commission began.
Johnson pointed out that county employees have been working on this, it just hasn’t been public record.
Beerbower said that the work of the county employees will be a part of the information the panel uses to make their recommendations and he wants a commissioner to be on the panel as well.
“The panel would be the buffer before it comes to the commission,” said Beerbower.
Another audience member spoke up asking, “Are we doing codification or zoning?” He is against codification and wanted to know what the commissioners expect to come out of this. He also expressed concern about the scuttlebutt is that there’s a 100+ page document out there. which would indicate codification.
“Coding is not even on the table,” said Beerbower. “Zoning at its most basic is what we want.”
He said the citizen panel will provide transparency. The purpose of the zoning is to deal with industries that aren’t regulated by federal or state government and therefore need county regulation.
Beerbower made a motion to post for letters of interest to form a panel to discuss zoning research and review proposals for Bourbon County to be received by April 14. Motion was approved.
Department Updates
Laura Holdridge, Register of Deeds
The Hidden Valley Roads neighborhood wants Bourbon County to now maintain their roads. However, there is no record of an agreement with the county for that maintenance. They have done their own maintenance for at least the past 21 years. The area consists of 9 miles of roads.
The commission did not agree to take on the roads of Hidden Valley.
Land locked property
At an unspecified location in the county, J&M Land Company is denying a Mr. Cook access to his landlocked field. The original road records show a road there, but in the 1987 records they’re not there.
Cook called Whisenhunt Friday, saying he can’t get equipment through on the railroad right of way that J&M Land Company offered as access because it’s severely overgrown.
Holdridge, suggested that the county keep one small section of the road open so he can get to his property. J&M Land Company, LLC is opposed to reopening road.
Johnson said that if he’s been accessing it for more than 15 years, he has a prescriptive easement. It’s a civil matter and he will talk to the parties involved this week.
Eric Bailey from Public Works said that Cook couldn’t access it last year and it became a civil matter then.
County Cemeteries
Holdridge said there are 37 cemeteries in the county, only 2 file deeds with her office. Those cemeteries include the fees in the cost of the plots. Fees are listed on the county’s website. Statues require charging for deed filing. It is the public’s responsibility to file their deeds themselves. Her office doesn’t hold original deeds, but copies.
“There was a misunderstanding between Ms. Ethridge and myself” regarding the storage of old cemetery plot deeds, she said.
Whisenhunt says the big problem is that current cemetery boards are aging and records aren’t being kept well. They need to organize and get together to work out a system to keep track. They do need to add the cost of filing the deed to the cost of the plot. We’ve got to help some of them get updated, he said.
As the county government, we can’t make them, said Beerbower. It’s not our responsibility. The county does collect taxes for 16 of the cemeteries in the county, amounting to approximately $60,000 per year that is distributed to those cemeteries.
Eric Bailey, Public Works
60th and Grand Bridge: time to choose the construction engineer. Schwab Eaton was the bid received. They did this same job for the bridge at 160th and Fern. They helped the county apply for the grant and did the design for it. Commission gave approval to send an email to KDOT to approve Schwab Eaton. KDOT will pay for that service as part of this grant.
Good Old Days committee have a meeting coming up and want approval for the county to fetch golf carts from Lamar for the June event. Commission gave permission.
Bridge at 130th is repaired.
Elm Creek roofs had a volunteer group come forward and offer to do the roof if the county will provide the materials and a couple of employees. Approving that would bring them in under budget. Cost for material is $5,409.71. Bailey said he will find a way to make it with their budget. “We have to do something with those roofs. We’ve put it off and they’ve been neglected long enough,” he said.
Whisenhunt asked about the ditch project. “They made great progress on it,” said Bailey. It will be better when the rain lets up.
Beerbower asked about dust control service from the county. Requests must be for a minimum 300 ft, and last year the cost was $1.75 per foot. Those interested can call the office and get on the list. The county will go out with flags to mark area, then work the gravel road as best they can to get it compact and then put the oil down on it. Longevity of the dust control depends on traffic and amount of turning done on the surface.
Commissioner comments
Beerbower
Asked to attend the Fort Scott Chamber community connection panelist luncheon on April 9 at 1 pm at Empress event center.
KCCA Annual Conference in Manhattan, April 21-23, Beerbower cannot attend due to medical issues. Whisenhunt has to work. They both expressed hope that the new commissioner can go.
He added two budget discussion requests to next week’s agenda regarding juvenile detention and Kansas Mental Health. He wants to discuss what was budgeted for them and discuss amending it.
Whisenhunt
A family member expressed to him that the county should have an animal shelter. Whisenhunt suggested a partnership with a shelter that’s already in place, as it’s cost-prohibitive to start one up for the county.
Obituary of Earnest Riley
Earnest Lee Riley, 79, a resident of Medicalodges, Fort Scott, KS died peacefully in his sleep on March 29, 2025. Earnie was born in Nowata, OK on July 3,1945 to Earl Riley and Ruby Irene (Harris) Riley.
For many decades, Earnie’s care was coordinated through the Kansas Guardianship Program while he resided and worked in facilities operated by Tri-Valley Developmental Services.
Declining health occasioned his move to Medicalodges. There are no known survivors.
Earnie will be laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS on April 5, 2025. Arrangements are under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.
Commerce Launches SIGNS Grant to Boost Downtown Revitalization
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today launched the Supporting Innovative Growth through New Signage (SIGNS) grant, a new initiative aimed improving the appearance and appeal of retail and commercial business signage in downtowns across the state. The total funding amount available is $250,000 and will be distributed to support innovative, high-quality signage projects.
“Downtown districts are the heartbeat of our rural communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through the new SIGNS grant, we’re directly investing in locally owned businesses and their ability to attract more customers while preserving the charm and character of their historic downtowns.”
Eligible applicants are businesses or building owners, municipalities, Main Street organization, economic development groups, chambers, foundations, tribal organization and other nonprofit community entities. Communities can apply for funding ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, with a required cash match based on the community’s population:
- 50% match for communities with populations between 2,500 and 50,000
- 25% match for communities with fewer than 2,500 residents
To preserve the unique character of Kansas’ historic downtowns, the grant prioritizes projects that adhere to the Kansas Commerce Sign Guidelines, ensuring that all signage complements existing architectural features. Preference will be given to three-dimensional signs created and installed by Kansas-based businesses.
Funds will be used to enhance community vitality and contribute to the downtown’s historical and aesthetic character. Awarded funds can be used for the design, purchase, lighting and installation of signs. The program is intended to support multiple buildings and businesses in a downtown region. A minimum of three signs must be proposed in each application.
Applications will be reviewed on a monthly first-come, first-served basis, until the funds are fully allocated. Applicants should ensure proposed projects comply with state and local regulations and that all grant-funded signage is completed within six months of the award approval.
“Historically, rural and small communities often lack the resources to revitalize their towns — that’s why this new funding opportunity is critical,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “These investments in our downtowns and small businesses will foster growth and drive economic vitality across the state.”
For more information about the SIGNS grant, click here or contact Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.
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.
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Commerce Announces New Opportunity for Transformative Art in Public Spaces
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the launch of an innovative program to support community-driven projects that enhance the quality and functionality of public spaces in Kansas communities. The Transformative Art for Public Spaces (TAPS) grant will have a total of $150,000 available to support the creative transformation of often overlooked infrastructure into vibrant and engaging elements for the community.
“The TAPS grant program is about more than making every-day objects look more presentable,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Having attractive public gathering spots encourages more people to utilize them, stay for longer periods of time, and spend more money at local establishments. These small investments will have long-term economic benefits for communities across the state.”
The TAPS grant offers awardees amounts of $1,500 to $2,000 per project to cover materials, supplies and artist compensation. Interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with local artists, students and community members by offering them opportunities to contribute creatively to their communities. A maximum of five projects are allowed per applicant.
Approved and funded fixtures and overlooked structures include:
- Electrical boxes
- Fire hydrants
- Trashcans
- Water utilities
- Other infrastructures
Applications will be accepted through December 5 or until funds are depleted. Priority will be given to projects in communities that have not received funding from Commerce during the previous three years.
“The TAPS Grant is an exciting way to celebrate community identity while offering artists and residents the chance to make a lasting impact on their surroundings,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “We can’t wait to see how these projects inspire collaboration and connections among our Kansas communities and residents.”
Organizations may submit proposals for multiple projects within a single application, provided each project meets the program’s guidelines. Projects that will not be supported include:
- Signs promoting businesses
- Murals or large-scale wall installations
- Live performances or temporary art
- Large undertakings requiring structural modifications
Applicants must work with their local municipality or property owner and be permitted to create art on the proposed structure. Documentation of this permission will be required for the application.
For more details, application forms, project examples and resources, click here.
Questions about the TAPS Grant can be directed to Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.
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.
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