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Looking at economic data for Reno County, perhaps what’s surprising is that more people aren’t homeless. The latest data shows nearly 13% of households in the county—or more than 3,100 of them—were living at or below the federal poverty level last year. Other measures show an even larger number of people in our community who, while not classified as poor, don’t earn enough to feel economically secure. Read more: The Hutchinson Tribune

The Haven City Council discussed food truck permits and kids riding electric scooters through town at high speeds, among other items, during its Monday evening meeting. The city’s current food truck policy requires vendors to apply for a permit to operate at any time for one year from the date of application, if approved. Food truck employees have to pass a Police Department-run background check, and any employees the vendor adds throughout the year have to pass as well. The permit has a one-time $50 fee, and the pink paper permit has to be posted on the truck. Previously, the council [...]

Mayor Michael Padilla has been named the 2025 Kansas Mayor of the Year by the League of Kansas Municipalities and the Kansas Mayors Association. The award is selected by fellow mayors, recognizing Padilla's commitment to Topeka's growth and well-being. Read more: CJonline

Provalus looks for small towns where incomes are low and people are eager for positions that will teach them 21st-century skills. Read more: Wall Street Journal

The tradition began in 2024, when a snow plow was given the name Taylor Drift following more than 650 contest entries. Read more: The Lawrence Times

Earlier this summer Stafford County Economic Development (EcoDevo) was awarded $25,000 for an implementation grant as part of the Office of Rural Prosperity Rural Champions grant program announced last year in collaboration with the Patterson Family Foundation for Macksville. The current Rural Champions is addressing childcare challenges in Macksville and this funding will support the implementation of the day care project. Read more: Ad Astra Radio | Your Hometown Radio Stations & Local News Source

McPherson County voters will see a proposal on the November 4 ballot for a ½ cent (0.5%) county-wide sales tax dedicated to funding Emergency Medical Services (EMS). If approved, the tax would begin April 1, 2026. The measure seeks to shift EMS funding from property taxes to a dedicated sales tax, creating the opportunity for county and city officials to reduce property taxes beginning in 2027.​ Read more: Butler County Times-Gazette

The Crawford County Commission met with a full house on Friday in response to Mulberry’s vote to annex land slated for solar development. A couple of the frequent attendees were present — Becky Williard and Judy Prince — raising familiar concerns over toxic fumes from battery fires and leaching poisons into the ground and water table. Landowners who live next to the proposed development offered some new concerns for the commission to consider. Read more: - Morning Sun

Prairie Cottage Homes, operated by Devin Holloway, is on the verge of listing their first three homes in Americus next week. With the help of Paul Pinick, the new venture aims to bring affordable homes to local smaller towns, and eventually Emporia. The three homes began construction in April and will be listed next week. One is three bedrooms, 1,311 square feet, while the two measure in at 1,611 square feet and fit in four bedrooms. The buildings are designed to last and stand the test of time. Read more: www.emporiagazette.com

Bourbon County Commissioners on Monday discussed concerns such as setting precedence and the potential for litigation regarding a moratorium on the mining of cryptocurrency. The commission later approved the 12-month moratorium, which takes effect after its publication in the Tribune and only applies to new mining activity in the county. County Counselor Bob Johnson said the moratorium would stop future expansion of mining operations until the commission can adopt regulations. Read more: Fort Scott Tribune Headlines