The Riley County Commission meeting on May 22, 2025, focused on a new initiative aimed at attracting families to the area through a relocation program. The discussion highlighted the success of a similar program in Indiana, which has successfully moved over 800 households into various communities by promoting local quality of life and providing incentives for relocation.

The program, which has now expanded to include Lincoln County, Kansas, aims to replicate this success by offering financial assistance for moving expenses. Families relocating to Lincoln County can receive up to $5,000 in reimbursement over two years, along with community support such as meal trains and local engagement activities. The initiative has already seen the relocation of five families to Lincoln County.

During the meeting, it was noted that the recent legislative session approved a grant program to support this effort, with state funding covering 80% of the costs. Local communities would need to contribute the remaining 20%. The proposal aims to bring 20 new households to Riley County, which could significantly impact local schools and the economy, as many relocating families include school-aged children and working spouses.

The speaker emphasized the importance of community engagement in attracting new residents, noting that many people are now prioritizing their choice of community before seeking employment. The program is expected to open applications in mid-June, with a total of $3 million allocated for the initiative over two years, limited to $250,000 per program.

Overall, the meeting underscored the potential for economic growth through targeted relocation efforts, highlighting the need for local investment and organization to capitalize on this opportunity.