Riley County outlines Make My Move program, plans local review of applicants

Amanda Webb, Riley County planning director, told the commission on Dec. 1 that the county has secured a state Make My Move (Home in the Heartland) grant intended to "move 20 households into the county." She said, "They need to come completely from outside of Kansas ... and either bring a remote job with them or obtain a job that has an annual salary of at least 55,000." The county has received the first 50% of grant funding; Webb said the second half will be released once the county reaches 50% of the household goal (10 households).

Webb described the program's core cash incentive — "$5,000" per approved applicant — and said the county can add non‑cash incentives, such as Chamber event passes or Kansas State University event tickets, at a later date. "We've been working with the Chamber of Commerce to administer the program," Webb said, noting the Make My Move web page is live and that Allison (Chamber staff) has already fielded questions.

Commissioners asked how applications will be reviewed. Webb proposed that she and Chamber staff could screen applicants and ensure they meet grant requirements, then report approvals to the commission. "Allison and I can review them, make those determinations that they meet the requirements, and ... keep you folks apprised of applicants and approvals," Webb said. Commissioner Ford and others agreed the commission should be kept informed and supported the proposal to avoid forming a separate selection committee.

Webb said the county has discussed non‑cash incentives with nearby cities Ogden and Leonardville; both have expressed interest in adding incentives, while Riley (transcript: a local jurisdiction) initially elected not to participate. Commissioners noted that any additional incentives developed later should be applied consistently; the commission signaled support for retroactive application so approved applicants would benefit from later additions.

Why it matters: The Make My Move grant ties a state incentive to local administration and requires clear oversight to ensure compliance with grant rules. Commissioners approved using county staff and Chamber partners to administer the program and asked for regular reporting on applicants and awards.

What's next: Webb said the county will finalize the incentive package and the memorandum of understanding applicants must sign, and she will return with updates and any recommended administrative procedures.