Atwood faces housing crisis as businesses boost local economy

Riley County officials are grappling with a pressing housing crisis as local businesses expand without adequate housing solutions for incoming workers. During the June 2, 2025, commission meeting, concerns were raised about the influx of industrial businesses in Atwood, which has led to a significant demand for housing that the area cannot meet.

Commission members highlighted that many workers are forced to seek accommodation in neighboring towns like McDonald and McCook due to the lack of available housing in Atwood. This situation has prompted discussions about the need for better coordination between business development and housing initiatives. The current housing stock is deteriorating, and there is a call for action to address these challenges before they escalate further.

The meeting also touched on the difficulties smaller communities face in accessing state and federal grants for housing initiatives. The competitive nature of these grants often leaves rural areas without the necessary resources to improve their housing situations. Officials noted that limited staffing and bureaucratic hurdles hinder these communities from effectively navigating the grant application process.

In addition to housing, the commission discussed the importance of workforce training to ensure that incoming workers possess the skills needed for available jobs. The conversation underscored the dual challenge of attracting businesses while simultaneously preparing a qualified workforce to meet their needs.

As Riley County moves forward, the commission is expected to explore potential partnerships and initiatives aimed at addressing both the housing shortage and workforce development, ensuring that the community can support its growing industrial base effectively.