Russell Rural Champion

08/13/2026

07/20/2026

👏 Great things happen when communities focus on solving problems together.

This proposed Fire Suppression Incentive Program is not the final step in addressing our downtown revitalization and housing challenges, but it is a significant step in the right direction.

One of the biggest barriers to redeveloping our historic downtown buildings—especially creating much-needed upper-floor housing—is the cost of installing code-compliant fire suppression systems. By working to reduce that burden through grant funding, we’re removing obstacles that have prevented investment for years.

A huge thank you to Russell County Economic Development for identifying creative solutions and pursuing opportunities that can make a lasting impact. Pending additional grant funding, this program has the potential to preserve our historic buildings, encourage redevelopment, expand housing opportunities, and strengthen our downtown for years to come.

Progress doesn’t happen overnight, but it happens one thoughtful solution at a time. Here’s to continuing the momentum! 💙🏛️🏠

Russell County Commissioners met Monday at the courthouse in Russell and approved moving forward with a new downtown district fire sprinkler assistance program.

07/14/2026

What We Heard. What Comes Next.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Russell Future Housing Needs Town Hall and shared your perspectives. Your input is helping shape the future of housing in our community.

Several priorities consistently emerged:

🏘️ Workforce housing
🏡 Quality rental housing
🔑 Starter homes
👵 Senior housing options
🔨 Rehabilitation of existing homes
💰 Addressing the financial barriers to new development

These conversations are an important step toward creating a housing strategy that supports families, strengthens our workforce, and positions Russell for long-term growth.

This is just the beginning. We’ll continue gathering community input as we work together to identify practical solutions and future opportunities.

07/13/2026

🚨 We’re just ONE HOUR away!

The Community Town Hall begins at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers, and we’d love to see you there.

Bring a friend. Bring a neighbor. Bring your ideas. Come ready to share your ideas, ask questions, and help shape the future of housing in Russell County.

📍 City Council Chambers
🕠 5:30–6:30 PM

There’s still time to join us. Walk-ins are welcome!

Together, we can build a stronger Russell!

07/13/2026

☀️ Good Morning, Russell! Today is the day! 🏡

Today’s the day we’ve been planning for—and we hope you’ll join us this evening for our Community Town Hall to help shape the future of housing in Russell.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a young professional, a business owner, a landlord, a homeowner, or simply someone who cares about our community, your voice matters.

This is your opportunity to:
🏠 Share your ideas about housing needs
💬 Ask questions and learn more about the Housing Assessment Tool (HAT)
🤝 Help identify priorities that can lead to future housing investments and funding opportunities

📅 Today!
🕠 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers
133 W. 8th Street • Russell, KS

We will have the Executive Director of Northwest Kansas Plan & Development there to facilitate the meeting also joined by the Regional Housing Planner from the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc. Bring a friend. Bring a neighbor. Bring your ideas.

Together, we’re building a stronger Russell County—one conversation at a time.

We’ll see you tonight!

07/12/2026

⏳ TOMORROW‼️

Now is the time to make your voice heard.

Every conversation, every idea, and every perspective helps us create a stronger housing strategy for Russell County.

Don’t miss this opportunity to help shape our future.

📅 Monday, July 13
🕠 5:30–6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers

See you there!

07/10/2026

3 Days Out

❤️ We can’t do this without you.

Strong communities are built by people who care enough to show up. We will have the Executive Director of Northwest Kansas Plan & Development there to facilitate the meeting also joined by the Regional Housing Planner from the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc.

If you’ve ever wished Russell had more housing options, better neighborhoods, or more opportunities for families and workers—this is your chance to help make it happen.

Bring a friend.
Bring a neighbor.
Bring your ideas.

📅 Monday, July 13
🕠 5:30–6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers

07/09/2026

4 Days Out

📢 What will we be talking about?

✔ Housing availability
✔ Workforce housing
✔ Affordable housing options
✔ Neighborhood growth
✔ Community priorities
✔ Future investment opportunities

This is your opportunity to help shape Russell County’s future.

📅 Monday, July 13
🕠 5:30–6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers

We hope to see you there

07/08/2026

5 Days Out

💬 Your ideas can become tomorrow’s priorities.

The Housing Assessment Tool will help Russell identify projects that can strengthen our community and position us for future housing funding opportunities.

Don’t let someone else speak for you.

Come share your thoughts.

📅 Monday, July 13
🕠 5:30–6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers

Together, we can create lasting change.

07/07/2026

You’re surprised… We’re surprised too.

There’s one thing I’ve been hearing over and over as I visit with our local business owners…

A customer walks in and says, “I’ve never been in here before.”

Honestly… I’m surprised too.

We have so many incredible businesses right here on Main Street, and it’s easy to overlook what’s been in our own backyard all along. Sometimes all it takes is stepping through the door to discover a new favorite place.

As part of my Rural Champion Project, I want to encourage everyone to make Main Street your next stop. You never know what you’ll find—or who you’ll meet.

This Saturday is the perfect chance! Stop by The Closet Boutique during 2nd Saturday Sips from 10 AM–2 PM, enjoy a sweet treat, browse their beautiful summer collection, and help make Main Street your first stop.

Let’s change “I’ve never been in there” to “I can’t wait to go back.” ❤️ Support local, discover something new, and keep our Main Street thriving.

The weekend is almost here, and we are throwing open the doors for 2nd Saturday Sips this Saturday, July 11th! 🛍️✨

If you’ve been looking for the perfect excuse for a retail therapy day, this is it. We’re turning up the downtown vibes and filling the boutique with gorgeous new summer arrivals and decor you won't want to miss.

Pop in between 10 AM and 2 PM to beat the heat, grab a sweet treat, and shop exclusive in-store deals. 🥂🍰 Let’s celebrate summer and shop local right here on Main Street!

📍 Find us at: 727 N Main Street, Russell KS
🗓️ When: Saturday, July 11th | 10 AM - 2 PM

Tag your shopping bestie in the comments and make it a date! 👇