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New Housing Program Launches

“Demo to Dirt” Provides Help to Remove Dilapidated Housing

A new housing initiative launched in several counties in North Central Kansas this Fall, aimed at addressing the issue of dilapidated residential structures. The “Demo to Dirt” program provides financial assistance to help property owners remove unsafe or blighted housing, contributing to safer neighborhoods and enhancing the overall appearance of communities.

The NCRPC is administering the program with support from a 2025 grant by The Patterson Family Foundation.

Eligible applicants may qualify for reimbursement grants of up to $4,000 toward demolition costs for deteriorated residential homes, garages, and sheds that pose safety risks or detract from neighborhood quality. There are no income requirements for the program. Assistance is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Property owners are required to contribute a 25% match and cover any costs that exceed the $4,000 grant.

This program is available for a limited time in incorporated cities located within select counties of the NCRPC service area, including Clay, Cloud, Dickinson, Ellsworth, Jewell, Lincoln, Marshall, Mitchell, Ottawa, Republic, and Washington.

“We appreciate The Patterson Family Foundation’s support in aiding this initiative,” said Keegan Bailey, NCRPC Assistant Director and Housing Director. “This program helps remove financial barriers for property owners while fostering safer neighborhoods and opening the door to future investment and housing opportunities.”

Property owners interested in learning more can visit the Demo to Dirt program page.

This article appeared in the December 2025 NCRPC Newsletter.

NCRPC Housing Initiative Update

Did you know? Limited funds are still available in select Kansas counties through the NCRPC Housing Initiative, including the Moderate Income Housing Rehabilitation Pilot Program and the Demolition Pilot Program.

Learn More>>

 


Local Business Opportunity Attracts Couple to Concordia

NCRPC Business Finance Program Assists in Business Purchase Project

Samantha Parker and her husband, Cameron Morris, along with Tim and Carrie Parker, are the new owners of the Liquor Outlet, located in Concordia, Kansas, along US Highway 81. (Courtesy Photo)

The opportunity to purchase a local business in Concordia, Kansas, has made moving back home a reality for Samantha Parker and her husband, Cameron Morris. In July, they acquired Liquor Outlet, which first opened its doors in March 2001.

Located at 1250 Lincoln Street in Concordia, Liquor Outlet offers a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits and is open daily. Its primary customer base includes residents of Concordia and Cloud County, as well as travelers along U.S. Highway 81.

Samantha and Cameron recently relocated from Aurora, Colorado, to Samantha’s hometown of Concordia to purchase the business along with her parents, Tim and Carrie Parker. The Parkers previously owned the Taco John’s franchise in Concordia.

Samantha Parker graduated from Concordia High School and Washburn University. She has previous experience working as an Occupational Therapist Assistant. Cameron Morris graduated from Goodland High School and has several years of experience managing liquor stores in both Colorado and Kansas. He manages the day-to-day operations of the business, with support from Samantha and her parents.

“We were excited about the chance to move back and be closer to family and friends while operating a local business,” said Samantha.

The business purchase project was made possible through investments from the owners, assistance from The Citizens National Bank in Concordia, and the NCRPC Revolving Loan Fund Program.

To learn more about the financing program used, contact Debra Peters, NCRPC Business Finance Director. To learn more about the business, visit them on Facebook.

This article appeared in the December 2025 NCRPC Newsletter.


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