Issue Position: Rural Revitalization

Issue Position

Northwest Kansas needs representation in Topeka that understands the unique needs of rural businesses. Besides our farm work, Beverely and I run Rainbow Lanes in Norton, as well as a screenprinting business. We know first-hand the roadblocks and red-tape -- as well as the tax implications -- of being self-employed.

Our communities need the flexibility to craft public-private partnerships to attract ambitious entrepreneurs and mid-size companies which will help us keep our highly-skilled young people in the area. It's not just about bringing high wage jobs, but we also need the people to fill them. Who better than the youth who were born and raised here?

The Rural Opportunity Zones established last year are a good first step, but we must meet the state halfway with creative public-private partnerships like those we have pursued in Norton County.

As we strive to reduce the influence of government in our lives, we need to rethink the way government works. Your Senator should work together with communities to pursue grants to supplement the expanding needs of our citizens.

The infrastructure already exists to bring highly skilled jobs to our area, just ask the folks at Natoma Corporation -- they've done it in Norton County. Replicating their success story will bring good jobs and keep our kids at home when they've finished their education.

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