Multiple local nonprofits brief commissioners on programs and funding needs

A block of presentations at the June 9 meeting featured nonprofit and community groups seeking county support and updating commissioners on projects.

Victoria Community Coalition representatives (Marilyn Brown and Brenda Dreiling) said the state provided $425,000 in ARPA funds to build garages tied to moderate‑income housing in Victoria and reported construction is underway with a target completion of Sept. 30. "The state of Kansas through the ARPA funds gave us an additional $425,000, to build those garages," Brown said.

Amanda Rupp, executive director of the Ellis County Historical Society, requested a continuation of last year’s allocation ($115,000) and described capital projects including a new Victoria facility and permanent exhibit work for the Hays museum; she said past county capital support was close to $1,000,000 for improvements. The Historical Society also asked for release of special alcohol fund allocations.

Betty Hansen and Jessica Fried from the Humane Society requested the same allocation as last year ($2,600), reported an increase in animals abandoned across the county, and described shelter costs for holding and veterinary care. "Only about of the 88 animals, stray animals that came from county last year, only 8 7% were picked up by owners," Hansen said as an example of low reclaim rates.

Doug Williams of GrowHaze presented his nonprofit’s annual report and requested $165,000 for 2027, highlighting progress on the community center (senior meals and childcare), the micro‑factory (about 70% occupied) and housing projects (Tallgrass Commons, 101 lots, 21 acres). Commissioners asked governance and board questions and were generally appreciative of volunteer support and outcomes.

Several of the groups asked commissioners to consider allocation levels as the county finalizes its 2027 budget.