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.

Businesses pivoted and changed their traditional business models.



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,



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.



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.



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.



Finance Program Assists in Transition of Salina Business

A loyal customer base and a desire to see the business continue were key motivators in Design Central’s succession planning.

Located in downtown Salina, Design Central provides commercial interior design services throughout Kansas. The business specializes in the design and furnishing of new and remodeled spaces such as libraries,



Benedick Named Executive Director

benedickThe North Central Regional Planning Commission Executive Board has named Emily Benedick as the organization’s new Executive Director.

She will succeed Doug McKinney, who last year announced plans to step down from his position this spring. McKinney began with the North Central Regional Planning Commission in 1986 and has been Executive Director since 2008.



Reflections on Transitions, 34 Years with Organization

Column by Doug McKinney

mckinneyAs many of you know by now, I am stepping down as Executive Director of the North Central Regional Planning Commission soon. It is time to place more focus on ailing family members and other important matters.



Rural Voices Winners Announced

rural voices youth contest logoTwo high school seniors in North Central Kansas are being recognized with the John R. Cyr Rural Voices Award for submitting the top entries in the 2019-2020 Rural Voices Youth Contest sponsored by the NCRPC.

Jake Toole,



Communities Awarded CDBG Funds for Projects

Several North Central Kansas communities recently learned they will receive grants to help complete a variety of improvement projects. The funding comes from the Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce.

NCRPC staff assisted with the following projects and will provide project administration.



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