Finney County approves $100,000 for Garden City Community College construction-trades expansion

The Finney County Board of County Commissioners on a voice vote approved a $100,000 contribution from the county general fund to Garden City Community College’s capital campaign for a construction-trades program expansion and agreed to consider an additional $100,000 in the 2026 budget.

Garden City Community College President Dr. Ryan Rudu told commissioners the college plans a 6,000-square-foot expansion for its construction-trades program with a total estimated cost of $1.8 million. He said the college has raised roughly $1.2 million and requested $200,000 from local governments to close the gap so the project can begin in spring 2026. “Our plan is to be able to have the funds secured and raised, by the end of this year so that we can move forward with the expansion, on the program by spring of 26,” Rudu said.

The request prompted discussion about which local taxes and funds should be used. Commissioner Jones said he was reluctant to commit property-tax dollars raised from county property owners to support another taxing entity. “I have a hard time saying we’re gonna move property taxes from this source to another source,” Jones said. Rudu and other commissioners noted the college lacks dedicated sales-tax revenue and emphasized the expected local workforce benefits of training more skilled construction workers.

Commissioner Hoots asked about hands-on training and employer involvement; Rudu said the expanded program includes on-site training with local contractors covering tasks from concrete forming to erecting houses, and the college is pursuing partnerships with four-year institutions for degree completion. The county administrator confirmed the city is considering $100,000 in support, either in the current fiscal year or next, and county staff said reserves are available to cover a 2025 payment if commissioners approve.

Commissioner Eubbs moved the county contribution: $100,000 to be paid from the general fund in 2025, with the remaining $100,000 to be considered in the 2026 budget. The motion was seconded and carried. During the roll call the record shows at least one dissenting “nay” but the motion passed.

Why it matters: Commissioners cited workforce development and local housing needs as reasons to support the college’s expansion, saying skilled trades training could speed local construction projects.

What’s next: County staff will execute the payout from the general fund in 2025 as approved; the commission will review the request for the second $100,000 during the 2026 budget process.