During a recent Atchison County Commission meeting, officials addressed critical funding concerns for local services, particularly focusing on Project Concern, a community organization that provides essential support to residents. The commission discussed a memorandum of understanding that aims to clarify funding expectations and ensure transparency regarding the organization’s financial needs.

Commissioners expressed their commitment to providing $100,000 in funding for Project Concern, emphasizing the importance of this support in preventing the closure of vital facilities, such as the Effingham center. The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by the commission in balancing statutory funding requirements with the needs of community organizations that offer a wide range of services.

Concerns were raised about the lack of visibility into Project Concern's financial records, with commissioners noting that they had not seen detailed income and expense reports. This lack of transparency has made it difficult to assess the organization's true financial needs. However, the commission is taking steps to address these issues by establishing clear expectations through the memorandum.

The meeting also included a budget certification process, where the commission adopted the 2026 budget at a rate of 59.201 mills. This decision reflects the commission's ongoing efforts to manage resources effectively while supporting community needs.

As the commission moves forward, officials encourage residents to engage with Project Concern's board members to better understand the organization's operations and funding requirements. The commitment to transparency and community support remains a priority as the commission navigates these complex issues.