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North Central Kansas Food Council Seeks Grower/Producer Information for Directory

The North Central Kansas Food Council (NCKFC) is developing a regional directory of growers/producers to highlight local businesses and better connect local food products and consumers.

The directory will be used to help promote local foods in the 12-county region the NCKFC serves – including the counties of Clay, Cloud, Dickinson, Ellsworth, Jewell, Lincoln, Marshall, Mitchell, Ottawa, Republic, Saline and Washington. It will also feature local markets, farmers markets, and food processors — essentially serving as a “one-stop shop” to find food resources in the region.

Local growers/producers in the region interested in promoting their business are invited to complete a directory form. The form is available at www.ncrpc.org/nckfoodcouncil.

Taylor Stewart is a Dane Hansen Community Intern with the North Central Kansas Food Council this summer.

The project is spearheaded by Taylor Stewart, a Dane Hansen Community Intern with the North Central Kansas Food Council. Her position is made possible through the Dane G. Hansen Foundation and K-State Research and Extension Community Intern program. The North Central Regional Planning Commission collaborates to administer the North Central Kansas Food Council initiative.

“This is a great opportunity for growers and producers to market their business and reach a wider audience of customers while there is growing momentum around local food due to COVID-19,” Stewart said. “There have been separate efforts to create food directories in the past, but our goal is to create a comprehensive directory and map specific to the region that is sustainable in the long-term.”

Originally from Gardner, Kansas, Stewart graduated from Kansas State University in May with a bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, secondary major in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, and minor in Nonprofit Leadership Studies.

“Taylor brings energy and experience in community-based initiatives that are an asset to the North Central Kansas Food Council,” Emily Benedick, North Central Regional Planning Commission Executive Director, said. “We are pleased to host Taylor this summer and encourage local growers/producers to reach out to her to be included in the directory.”

For more information, visit the NCKFC, contact Taylor at nckfc@nckcn.com, or like North Central Kansas Food Council on Facebook. Stewart’s internship ends August 7.

This article appeared in the July 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Torkelson Celebrates 40-year Milestone with NCRPC

Carol Torkelson has been with NCRPC since 1980 and has been housing director since 2008.

Change. That has been one constant in Carol Torkelson’s 40-year career with the North Central Regional Planning Commission.

Torkelson celebrated the 40-year milestone on May 19. During her tenure, Carol has worn several hats. She hired on as a bookkeeper, which evolved to administrative assistant and personnel officer. She has been housing director since 2008. Technology has changed significantly during this time.

“When I started, I was using onion skin paper and carbon paper to make duplicates in a typewriter and we were doing ledgers by hand,” Torkelson said. “Now, technology is so advanced that our staff could work remotely this spring when the office was temporarily closed.”

She also recalls Internet discussions taking place early on at an annual meeting.

“Our executive director at the time, John Cyr, wrote a demonstration grant and North Central Kansas Community Network, also known as NCKCN, got its start,” Torkelson said. NCKCN continues to connect rural households and businesses to the Internet through a variety of services.

Office staffing and location have been other key changes during her career. When Carol began with the organization in 1980, she worked under the very first executive director in the basement of the Beloit Municipal Building. The office moved to two different locations on Main Street before moving to its current location at 109 N. Mill Street in Beloit.

“When we moved to this building, there were empty offices. Now every office is full and some are even doubled up,” Torkelson said. “In 2022, the NCRPC will celebrate 50 years and is under the leadership of just its fifth executive director since the organization was formed. To me, that really speaks to the history of the organization and the commitment of many long-term staff members.”

According to Carol, the importance of people and relationships has remained constant.

“When I reflect back, I think about all of the people that have been involved with the organization over the years — not only staff, but also local governments, board members, and many from agencies and other groups that we routinely partner with,” Torkelson said. “The interaction with people has been special.”

Originally from rural Osborne, Carol had just graduated from North Central Kansas Area Vocational-Technical School (now known as NCK Tech) when she applied at NCRPC. During her 40 years with the organization, Carol got married, raised kids, and is now enjoying grandkids and watching others in the office raise kids.

“So much life has happened here,” Carol said. “I am thankful for the organization being family-oriented and flexible.”

Torkelson has helped many individuals and communities in the region over the past 40 years.

“Carol’s unwavering commitment to the NCRPC, as well as her big heart for helping and working with our communities, is aspirational,” NCRPC Executive Director Emily Benedick said. “She has seen the NCRPC through all the ups and downs over the last 40 years never hesitating to step in where she is needed to help move the organization forward.”

This article appeared in the July 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Project Spotlight: Ellsworth Housing

Multiple Programs Involved with Improvements to Ellsworth Home

Multiple programs were involved in the recent improvements to this Ellsworth home. (Courtesy Photo)

When Elizabeth George purchased her Ellsworth home, the list of needed improvements was long. Fortunately for her, the timing was perfect to participate in the city’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) housing rehabilitation project.

The City of Ellsworth was awarded funds for a CDBG housing project in 2018. The CDBG program is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce.

George also participated in the First Time Home Buyer Program and received Weatherization Assistance. Both programs are administered by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation.

“The George home really showcases what can be achieved when multiple programs are involved,” NCRPC Housing Director Carol Torkelson said.

North Central Regional Planning Commission completed the inspection for the First Time Home Buyer program and administered the CDBG project for the City of Ellsworth. It also operates the Weatherization Assistance Program in a 41-county service area—including Ellsworth County.

“The timing of all three programs worked out really well,” Torkelson said. “Running the Weatherization Assistance program along with the city’s CDBG Housing Rehabilitation project also helped maximize the use of funds for both programs and helped get a home up to the state standards.”

The City of Ellsworth was awarded a previous CDBG housing rehabilitation project in 2014 and understood the potential benefits for its citizens.

“A lot of times, citizens have full intentions and desire to update or fix problems with their homes, but it is just not financially feasible,” Ellsworth Mayor Mark Kennedy said. “For a small financial commitment from the city, we can see tangible evidence of benefit in an area of need.”

The majority of the work done on the George home included replacing windows, replacing exterior doors as needed, and various insulation measures to improve energy efficiency. The improvements have helped lower George’s utility bills while increasing her peace of mind and pride in her home.

“I feel as a resident of a community that has taken part in the CDBG program, it has only improved our community,” George said. “It is a great thing to see neighborhoods come back to life and know that you had a part in it.”

There are many great things happening in North Central Kansas. The Project Spotlight series features projects around the region to share ways communities have solved challenges. To view more Project Spotlights, visit https://www.ncrpc.org/tag/project-spotlight/.

This article appeared in the July 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Planning Key to Project Success

Communities Considering CDBG Water/Sewer Applications Should Begin Planning Now

Project planning is essential for funding success. Communities with water or sewer project needs that are considering an application to the Community Development Block Grant program should start planning now for next year’s funding round.

Beginning with the FY 2021 competitive round of funding due this fall, all water and sewer projects over $3 million total cost must have final design plans and specs submitted to KDHE before the application deadline. This new guideline could add to the timeline for applying.

“Cities will need to be in communication with their engineers much earlier on in the process in order to get the design submitted to KDHE before applying for CDBG grants in the fall,” Amanda Horn, NCRPC Community Development Specialist, said. “Our advice would be to get in touch with us and the engineers as soon as possible if they have any water or sewer needs for the FY2022 year to start the process for full Preliminary Engineering Report and design.”

The NCRPC staff can also help cities determine if they meet Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) eligibility criteria, discuss potential funding options, procure an engineer if needed, and make an informed decision when the time is right. Examples of eligible activities for the water and sewer funding category include water distribution systems, sewer systems, lagoons, wastewater treatment plants, and water treatment plants.

All applicants for water or sewer grants must also meet with the Kansas Interagency Advisory Committee (KIAC) prior to the application due date. These meetings can fill quickly — another reason for early planning.

To learn more, visit Kansas Department of Commerce or contact Amanda Horn or Emily Benedick at the NCRPC to discuss your project needs.

This article appeared in the July 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Finance Program Assists in Concordia Business Transition

business transition image

Darell Gallegos (left) purchased the Concordia Ford dealership, located at 1510 E. 6th Street, from owners Steve Womack Sr. (right) and Judy Womack in 2019. (Courtesy Photo)

A passion for the car business has led Darell Gallegos on a journey to achieve his dream of owning a dealership. Gallegos purchased the Concordia, Kansas, Ford dealership, previously known as Womack Sunshine Ford, in late 2019.

The new name of the dealership is Farm Country Ford — a name Darell says is meant to honor the community’s agricultural roots. It is also a Kawasaki franchise and offers a lineup of motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and utility/recreational vehicles.

Darell’s roots to a Ford dealership begin at the age of 18 when he worked for local Ford dealers while attending Hutchinson Community College and Wichita State University. He went to work for Ford Motor Credit Company after graduation, which is where he met Steve Womack Sr., owner of the Concordia Ford franchise. The two connected and, in 2018, Gallegos became the general manager at Womack. Darell purchased the dealership in late 2019 when owners Steve Sr. and Judy Womack were ready to retire.

The project to transition the business to new ownership was made possible with investment by the owner as well as funding from The Citizens National Bank and the NCK-Four Rivers Business Down Payment Assistance Loan Program.

For more information about the financing programs used, contact NCRPC Business Finance Director Debra Peters at 785-738-2218 or visit the NCRPC Business Finance Program. For more information about the business, visit Farm Country Ford.

This article appeared in the July 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Positive Responses in Challenging Times

People have come together in inspiring and innovative ways to help one another thrive during these challenging times. What follows are just some of the examples of how communities have responded to situations created by COVID-19.

sewing cloth masks

Scott Specialties, Inc., headquartered in Belleville, recently started manufacturing cloth masks. (Photo by Fred Arnold, courtesy of The Belleville Telescope)

Businesses pivoted and changed their traditional business models. Many restaurants adapted their normal operating procedures to transition to drive-through, delivery, and carryout only. Clay County Economic Development Group went another step and adapted a “Takeout Bingo” game to support area restaurants.

Businesses also learned to use technology in new ways. Ellsworth County Economic Development created an online grocery ordering system for a local grocery store as a way to improve safety and efficiencies.

hungry hungry hero program

One initiative of Mitchell County Strong is the Hungry Hungry Hero program that was created to help provide lunch once a week for those working on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo courtesy of Mitchell County Strong)

Local food banks/pantries have seen an increase in need for assistance. In response, several communities created initiatives to help fill the needs. Through the Caring for Cloud County program, the Community Foundation for Cloud County donated matching funds to local food pantries through a gift card/Chamber Bucks program. Concordia Chamber of Commerce, Cloud County Tourism and CloudCorp partnered in the program. A Caring for Cloud County 2.0 campaign will begin soon with additional partners from Clyde and Miltonvale Chambers of Commerce.

Grocery assistance to families in need is one aspect of Mitchell County Strong, a partnership of the Solomon Valley Community Foundation, Beloit Area Chamber of Commerce and Solomon Valley Economic Development. The program also helps get money back into the local economy through a gift card program. Even students have joined in the effort to support local organizations. The senior class at Rock Hills Jr/Sr High donated to Jewell County Helping Hands Ministries from funds they had been saving for a “senior” trip.

donation

The Rock Hills Jr/Sr High School senior class donated $1,500 to Jewell County Helping Hands Ministries. (Photo by Chris Klos, courtesy of Jewell County Helping Hands Ministries)

Continuous learning forced students and schools to adapt — and communities stepped up to help. Local Internet providers made sure students had the Internet access they needed to complete the school year. Teacher parades, yard signs, and virtual ceremonies helped celebrate the successes of students and graduates.

Communities created t-shirts, websites and campaigns quickly and with great success to benefit businesses, individuals and families. Neighbors helping neighbors has always been a foundation of North Central Kansas and its citizens. That spirit will be important as the region recovers.

This article appeared in the May 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.

 


Viewpoint: COVID-19 Impacts and Looking Forward

Column by Emily Benedick

At NCRPC, we know the topic on everyone’s minds is COVID-19. I must admit, this is not how I pictured my first 12 weeks serving as Executive Director. When I started in this position on March 2, I envisioned learning side-by-side with Doug McKinney up until his final day on May 1, but COVID-19 had other plans.

In these times, it is easy to get bogged down by the negative which inadvertently causes many of us to turn a blind eye to the incredible positives that have risen up in our communities. While the negative impacts are certainly serious and need to be understood, the positive stories also provide hope and inspiration as our communities continue moving forward.

There are a lot of “what ifs” happening right now because I do not think anyone really knows when this virus will be under control enough that life can continue on as normal. I am not sure we even know what the new normal is going to look like for the next few months or even year. What I do know is our communities will come back stronger and more unified than ever after surviving such an unprecedented and challenging time together. The North Central Regional Planning Commission will continue to serve our Cities, Counties and everyone in between as best we can to help ensure the success of North Central Kansas for many years to come. I want people to know that we are truly here as a resource and willing to listen to any challenge and try to help as best we can.

As we begin to look forward, I am eager to explore what new opportunities we can bring to North Central Kansas, as well as continue to ensure our current program offerings thrive. As an organization, we are fortunate to have a wide range of experience from dedicated and ambitious staff. Thank you to the many individuals, businesses, and organizations who are working hard to keep North Central Kansas resilient. The teamwork and heart that comes out in our communities and region during these trying times is unlike any other.

This article appeared in the May 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.

 


Keeping Kids Connected

NCKCN is proud to announce the Kids Connect Program in North Central Kansas. The program is spearheaded by Brent Cunningham, Vice President and Manager of Cunningham Telephone & Cable (CTC). NCKCN is a NCRPC affiliate. Working with CTC and area schools, the program provides free Internet access during the COVID-19 crisis to student rural households that did not have Internet to finish out the school year with their respective schools. Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative, Inc. also provided utility poles at households with challenges to access the NCKCN Fixed Wireless. Kids Connect school district participants include: Belleville USD 109, Beloit St. Johns, Beloit USD 273, Concordia USD 333, Courtland Pike Valley USD 427, Mankato Rock Hills USD 107, and Miltonvale Southern Cloud USD 334.

This article appeared in the May 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Home Ownership Pilot Program Launches in Three More Counties

Buyers purchasing a home in three North Central Kansas counties may now qualify for financial incentives designed to make home ownership more affordable.

Pilot home ownership programs officially launched in Dickinson County March 6, in Ottawa County April 28 and in Republic County April 29. The program provides a combination of down payment loans and closing cost grants to eligible buyers. Funds are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

Primary objectives of the pilot program are to reduce the number of homes on the market, be a catalyst for first time home buyers, benefit employers in recruiting and retaining employees, and attract alumni back to the region to work, start/buy a business, or retire. The program is made possible through a partnership of local banks, businesses and charitable foundations. The NCRPC is administering the program.

“We are pleased to bring the pilot program to these counties,” Debra Peters, Program Manager, said. “It offers an opportunity to make home buying a reality for individuals and families, particularly in these challenging times.”

Similar pilot programs have been completed in Cloud, Ellsworth, Lincoln and Mitchell Counties. Since first launching in 2018, home ownership programs in the region have combined to assist in the purchase of 33 homes at an approximate value of $4.6 million. Results of the pilot programs will be used to develop a permanent regional home ownership program sometime in the future.

To learn more about the pilot program in Dickinson, Ottawa or Republic County, contact your local bank or realtor or visit www.ncrpc.org/services/homeownership.

This article appeared in the May 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


Staffing Transitions Announced

Spring brought new roles in the organization for some NCRPC staff members.

Emily Benedick was named Executive Director in March, succeeding Doug McKinney after his retirement. Adding to the leadership team, Lisa Peters accepted the Assistant Director position previously held by Benedick. Peters has been with the organization since 2011 and also serves as Homeland Security Fiscal Coordinator.

Other position changes effective April 1, 2020 include Amanda Horn being named Community Development Representative. She joined the staff in 2019 as Administrative / Research Assistant. Brett Beck was named NCKCN Assistant Systems Administrator / Outside Plant Manager. He has been with the organization full time since 2006. Michael Draemel, who has been with the organization since 2016, was named NCKCN Assistant Systems Administrator / IT Plant Manager.

“The success of our organization and services we offer would not be possible without a great staff,” Executive Director Emily Benedick said. “These individuals have proven their commitment to high-quality work over and over again.”

This article appeared in the May 2020 NCRPC Newsletter.


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