By Randy Partington
County Connections
As we approach the close of 2025, Reno County embraces new opportunities—defined by collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for a thriving future. Across departments and communities, progress is happening not just through words, but through meaningful action. From economic revitalization efforts, public health and safety to housing and property improvement incentives, our county is laying the groundwork for lasting prosperity. Much of this success comes from the strong partnerships between the county, area cities, the chamber of commerce, and community organizations.
Economic development and incentives
One of the standout efforts this year is the recently presented county-wide, five-year Economic Development Strategic Plan. Commissioners allocated $20,000 from the county’s economic development incentive fund to help move this plan forward in collaboration with cities, private businesses, and nonprofits. Community engagement is a cornerstone of the initiative, with surveys, focus groups, and input from educators, business leaders, and citizens across the county helping shape the strategy.
Prior to this strategic plan, the county implemented new policies and incentives designed to better position our community for growth. These include:
- • Housing grant opportunities for cities and developers to assist with infrastructure costs, helping make new homes more affordable.
- • First-time homebuyer incentives to help both buyers and developers access new housing developments countywide.
- • Business incentive options encouraging expansion, job creation, and employee relocation to Reno County.
In early 2025, the Board of County Commissioners adopted a neighborhood revitalization plan (NRP) that enables residential, commercial, and industrial property owners to earn property tax rebates for qualifying improvements or new construction. This plan rewards those who reinvest in their properties, fueling neighborhood renewal and community pride. Since its adoption, the cities of Buhler, Pretty Prairie, and South Hutchinson have partnered with the county by adopting the plan—expanding opportunities for their citizens to revitalize local properties.
Internal happening
The county has been researching ways to capture value from methane generated at the landfill. The proposed landfill gas energy project would capture methane and other gases and convert them into usable energy or industrial inputs. This initiative offers environmental benefits, new revenue potential, and reduced waste—demonstrating Reno County’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability and resource management.
Safety, public health, and responsiveness
Public safety and health remain at the heart of county government. New fire stations have been built in Turon and Nickerson to better aid volunteer firefighters in those communities that are part of a county fire district. In addition, the county proclaimed September as National Recovery Month, recognizing the importance of treatment, recovery, and reducing stigma. These actions highlight our continued commitment to public health and support for vulnerable populations.
Special Parks and Recreation policy for grant opportunities
The County Commission also approved a new Special Parks and Recreation Policy, creating another opportunity for collaboration. Reno County receives funds from the state’s liquor tax—generated from alcohol sales by clubs, caterers, and establishments—which the state distributes among counties and cities. These funds are divided evenly among the county’s general fund, substance abuse prevention efforts, and parks and recreation initiatives.
While the county has long used its portion for substance abuse prevention to help cover Drug Court costs, the special parks and recreation fund had gone unused for several years. Under the new policy, the county will now solicit annual grant applications from city parks departments and recreation clubs seeking support to improve local quality-of-life and recreation opportunities.
Looking ahead: unity, collaboration, and momentum
The defining feature of Reno County’s 2025 governance is collaboration—bringing together citizens, agencies, and communities around shared goals. The economic plan, business incentives, property revitalization efforts, and environmental initiatives all reflect Reno County’s mission:
“We serve the community through effective leadership and innovation to enhance the quality of life in Reno County.”
While challenges remain, our direction is clear. Reno County is acting with intention, creativity, and purpose. We have a role in this advancement—by engaging in community discussions, supporting local initiatives, and being a strong partner in the betterment of our community.
Randy Partington is the Reno County Administrator. He can be reached at randy.partington@renocountyks.gov.