During the recent Cheyenne County Commissioners Meeting held on November 15, 2024, significant discussions centered around workforce recruitment and housing initiatives aimed at revitalizing the local community.

One of the key highlights was the introduction of the "Love Kansas" program by the Kansas Department of Commerce, which Cheyenne County has been accepted into. This initiative aims to encourage young people, particularly alumni, to return to their hometowns after pursuing education and careers elsewhere. The program seeks to address workforce shortages that have arisen from a long-standing narrative encouraging youth to leave for bigger cities. By leveraging the influence of alumni, the county hopes to create a welcoming environment that invites these individuals back home.

In addition to workforce recruitment, the meeting also addressed housing challenges within the county. The commissioners announced that they had successfully secured a grant from the Office of Rural Prosperity, which will fund a part-time position dedicated to housing initiatives. Lisa Krull, who will be working in this role, is tasked with conducting a Housing Assessment Tool (HAT) to evaluate the current housing landscape. This assessment will involve a thorough examination of existing homes to determine the community's actual housing needs, whether they be low-income, moderate-income, or rental apartments.

The commissioners emphasized the importance of this assessment in making informed decisions about future housing developments and identifying suitable tax incentives and grants to support these efforts. A community meeting is scheduled for November 21, where residents will be invited to learn more about the housing plan and provide input on the initiative.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a proactive approach by Cheyenne County to tackle workforce and housing issues, aiming to foster a more sustainable and inviting community for both current residents and those considering a return. The outcomes of these initiatives will be closely monitored as the county seeks to enhance its appeal and address the pressing needs of its population.