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Finney County economic development update: Sand Sage site work, housing and workforce concerns
Summary
County economic development staff reported site work starting on the Sand Sage development, activity on apartments and commercial sites, MIH ARPA funding for moderate‑income housing projects and concerns about hotel room shortages and workforce/housing gaps that could constrain local growth.
Finney County economic development staff told commissioners Oct. 20 that several housing and commercial projects are moving forward and that workforce and housing shortages remain a limiting factor.
Lana (economic development) said site work has begun on the Sand Sage development and that mixed‑use planning continues; she said the county secured state MIH ARPA funds for a moderate‑income housing project in the area. Staff reported preliminary activity on apartment projects and discussions with potential retail for sites near Palace Drive and Schulman Crossing, and mentioned interest from hotel developers aligned to upcoming attractions such as the Sports of the World complex.
Economic staff raised workforce and housing challenges, estimating a shortfall of hotel rooms and noting the county continues to pursue workforce development partnerships (including discussions with Newman University, Kansas State and KU) and outreach to career‑pathway programs.
Commissioners were briefed on potential industrial expansions and renewable energy projects that may require future zoning or waiver discussions. The commission scheduled a work session on wind and solar farm resolutions and anticipated follow‑up as those proposals develop.
