the decade decline in rural population. Our goal is to actively develop for the next generation, promote our thriving and vibrant communities and grow our population.” To achieve that, Osage County is offering incentives to shop local. “Every month we are offering a $50 gift certificate to residents who are supporting our business,” Mendoza says. Along with this, the county is offering $500 to local enterprises.“We rotate a new business each month to be in a different community. Within a year, we will have two business grants awarded in each community. It seems small, but our commercial rehabilitation project with the goal of bringing a restaurant and other vital services to the community.” SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Through the “Love Kansas” campaign, the county is partnering with the Kansas Department of Commerce to showcase the region.“This is an initiative to attract talent and promote living and working in Kansas,” expands Mendoza. “Currently there are 68,000 jobs open in Kansas, so the goal at the state level is to fill these jobs. For Osage County, we want to stop 166 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx