Kelly seeks more time for federal storm disaster requests
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly has asked federal officials for additional time to file disaster declarations for two severe weather events that struck Kansas in June, citing the need to fully assess damage costs that could strain local government budgets.
Kelly submitted letters to the Federal Emergency Management Agency requesting extensions to file major presidential disaster declarations under the Public Assistance Program for storm systems that occurred June 3-7 and June 17-18, the Kansas Adjutant General's Department announced.
The governor is seeking an extension until Aug. 6 for the early June storms and until Aug. 17 for the mid-June weather event. Both storm periods brought severe thunderstorms with large hail, damaging winds, tornadoes and heavy rainfall that caused widespread flooding across waterways and communities.
"These extensions are required due to challenges in gathering data on sustained damages that will strain local budgets to repair," Kelly said in a statement. "I am seeking time to collect data and validate all legitimate expenses to aid local governments in restoring the infrastructure so vital to the safety and wellbeing of Kansans."
The extensions would provide additional time for preliminary damage assessments needed to qualify for federal assistance through FEMA's Public Assistance Program. The program provides matching funds to help repair damaged public infrastructure including roads, bridges and other critical facilities.
Kelly said the state needs more time to review assessment data and ensure all eligible expenses are documented before submitting the federal aid requests.
In other news from the governor, Kelly joined state and local leaders as well as Walmart leadership Friday to celebrate the grand opening of Walmart's first-ever fully owned and operated case-ready beef facility in Olathe. The new facility brings 667 new jobs to surrounding area, higher quality beef sold in Walmart stores across the Midwest, and increased transparency and efficiency in the supply chain for Angus beef.
“Kansas has long been at the forefront of the agriculture industry, and Walmart’s investment in Olathe is further driving our success,” Kelly said. “Through food production and supply chain innovations, we are proud to partner with Walmart to transform how we feed communities across our state and the region.”
The 300,000+ square-foot, state-of-the-art facility is the product of a $257 million new capital investment. The facility will process fresh beef into case-read Angus cuts, packaged and ready for retail, and then distribute the cuts to 600 stores across 14 states.
“Walmart’s decision to open its new case-ready facility in Olathe isn’t just a business investment — it's a vote of confidence in our community and our workforce,” said Olathe Mayor John Bacon. “With over 600 new jobs being created, this facility will fuel local economic growth and reinforce Olathe’s position as a regional agricultural leader. We’re proud to work with Walmart and build more economic opportunity for our residents.”
During the grand opening celebration, Walmart also awarded grants to several local organizations, further demonstrating their commitment to being a strong partner to Olathe and the surrounding area.
The organizations and grant awards are below:
- Kansas Special Olympics – $35,000
Special Olympics Kansas provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, promoting physical fitness, courage, and friendship. - Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City – $20,000
The Boys & Girls Club inspires kids to live out their potential by providing safe, fun, and enriching after-school and summer programs focused on academics, leadership, and healthy lifestyles. - Friends In Service of Heroes – $30,000
Friends In Service of Heroes is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families by providing life-changing resources, mobility assistance, and emotional support to those who have served our country. - Mayor Bacon’s Book Club – $5,000
Mayor Bacon’s Book Club fosters a love of reading among Olathe’s young students by providing free books and encouraging literacy through engaging events and community partnerships.
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