City leaders will soon consider a code amendment that would allow schools, event centers and recreation centers to house temporary homeless shelters. As part of its meeting Tuesday, the Lawrence City Commission will consider a text amendment that would expand the potential locations of temporary shelters, which are meant to give those sleeping outdoors day and/or overnight shelter during the winter months. Currently, only churches and other religious organizations can operate such shelters.
Source: LJWorld.com.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Kansas Lynne Hinrichsen today announced that USDA is investing $17.28 million toward community infrastructure for six rural communities. …
Winfield- The Southwestern College Two loans totally $11.66 million will be used to build a new dormitory and make technology upgrades throughout the Southwestern College campus. A Guarantee loan from a local bank will provide an additional $5.5 million to assist the College with refinance of existing debt and make improvements to facilities across campus. This partnership, which will benefit 12,301 people, is made possible with a $500,000 contribution from the applicant.
City of Neodesha A $50,000 grant will assist in purchasing new equipment for the Neodesha Fire Department. Project funds will help to purchase a new battery-powered “Jaws of life;” three new pneumatic lifting air bags; Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus with spare air cylinders; two new thermal imagers; and a patient ventilator. This partnership, which will benefit 2,486 people, is made possible with a $86,050 contribution from the applicant.
City of Independence A $49,200 grant will assist in purchasing emergency equipment for first responders. Project funds will purchase new cardiac monitors; new Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus equipment; and a new law enforcement vehicle. This partnership, which will benefit 9,483 people, is made possible with a $91,500 contribution from the applicant.
City of Burr Oak A $16,000 grant will assist in purchasing and installing new street signs throughout the city. Street signs are critical for 911 calls and will assist the residents and visitor with accurate directions and addresses for daily activities. This partnership, which will benefit 174 people, is made possible with a $2,923 contribution from the applicant, $13,500 from Dane Hanson and $1,200 from community donations.
City of McCune A $6,200 grant will assist in purchasing furniture for the new McCune City Hall. Project funds will help to purchase a desk; a large safe to store community records; a new heating/air conditioning unit; a through the wall drop box; a storage cabinet; bookshelves; and tables and chairs. This partnership, which will benefit 405 people, is made possible with a $5,142 contribution from the applicant.
City of Ellinwood A $3,900 grant will assist in purchasing new computer equipment for city workers to increase computer security from cyber-attacks. This partnership, which will benefit 2,131 people, is made possible with a $7,400 contribution from the applicant.
These investments were made through the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program and can be used to build or upgrade schools, libraries, clinics and public safety facilities.

The interest rate table above illustrates recent changes in a sample of MBIS “investment grade” yields. Every issuer’s credit is different. For rates that may be applicable to your municipality, contact our Municipal Bond Advisors, Larry Kleeman and Beth Warren.