Osage County is gearing up for a transformative economic boost, thanks to a series of strategic initiatives discussed at the recent county commission meeting. Key among these is the pursuit of HEAL and emergency HEAL grants aimed at revitalizing downtown areas and addressing dilapidated buildings.

The county is also poised to leverage the Kansas Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which allocates $40 million over the next five years for critical investments in transportation, broadband, and water infrastructure. This funding is expected to enhance Osage County's position as a hub for transportation logistics, with plans for a new rail transload facility already in the works.

In a collaborative effort with neighboring counties, Osage County is actively building partnerships to maximize these opportunities. The county has joined the "Love Kansas" campaign, a statewide initiative designed to attract talent and fill the 86,000 job vacancies across Kansas, including essential roles in education and healthcare.

This holiday season, Osage County is also launching a "Love Local" campaign to support small businesses. The initiative includes monthly contests encouraging residents to shop locally, with a $500 grant awarded to a local business each month. The first grant went to Burlingame Cuties, a daycare service recognized for its community impact.

County officials emphasize that shifting just $100 of spending to local businesses could generate an additional $24,000 in sales tax revenue, highlighting the significant economic multiplier effect of local spending. As the community rallies around these initiatives, the message is clear: supporting local businesses is not just beneficial—it's essential for the growth and revitalization of Osage County.