Development News for Hays, Kansas

The BRICS Celebrates 25 Years of Downtown Revitalization, Seeks $180,000 for Operations

The BRICS organization presented its work in revitalizing downtown Hays, highlighting their 25th anniversary, strong volunteer support, and successful collaborations. Initiatives like Christmas Magic on Main Street, Bazaar on the Bricks, and Farm to Fork were detailed, alongside increased online visibility and community investment. They requested $180,000 in funding, which is unchanged from previous years, to support operational costs. The organization emphasized its mission-driven approach, focus on quality of life, and commitment to fostering a vibrant and connected downtown ecosystem through partnerships and events.

Fort Hays State University Highlights Community Impact and Affordability

Fort Hays State University representatives presented their request for continued city support, highlighting the university's significant economic impact on the community and its commitment to affordability and accessibility for students, particularly those from Ellis County. They emphasized the Ellis County Housing Reduction Program, the university's high student enrollment and housing demand, and their extensive scholarship offerings. The presentation also touched on the university's direct expenditures and collaborations, including partnerships with local technical colleges to enhance regional sustainability and provide alternative educational pathways.

Grow Hays Reports on Economic Development Initiatives, Seeks $180,000 Funding

Grow Hays presented its mission and accomplishments in business creation, retention, and recruitment, highlighting its role in fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses through loan programs, and attracting new commercial and retail entities to Hays and Ellis County. Key initiatives discussed include youth entrepreneurship challenges, the e-community loan program, and successful business expansions and retail recruitments like Agility, Chick-fil-A, and Seven Brews. The presentation also emphasized the organization's contribution to quality of life through projects like the Bob Apache Schmidt Community Center and housing developments, while requesting $180,000 in funding for operational expenses.

Commissioner Clarifies CDBG Funding Purpose for Community Investment

Commissioner Elaine shared insights into Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, clarifying its purpose as federal taxpayer dollars used for neighborhood, infrastructure, housing, and economic improvements. She emphasized that the grant's intent is to assist private investors and business owners with commercial rehab projects. Commissioner Elaine noted that other Kansas communities receive CDBG funds and encouraged continued efforts to secure such resources, highlighting Grow Hays' role in making these opportunities known to local businesses and the significant economic impact CDBG can bring by revitalizing vacant properties.