Thrive: Lansing Kansas

Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Harland Russell—lifelong Lansing resident, former City Council member, and seasoned development professional—to talk about the past, present, and future of Lansing. Harland shares insights from his time in office, reflects on lessons learned during critical infrastructure decisions, and explores how cities like Lansing can be better prepared for the next wave of growth.

4 Key Takeaways from this Episode

1. Public Service Leaves a Lasting Legacy

Harland’s time on the City Council included foundational projects like the wastewater treatment plant expansion and the development of Kenneth W. Bernard Park. These long-term investments continue to serve Lansing today and exemplify how infrastructure planning shapes community resilience.

2. Development Requires More Than Land—It Requires Readiness

From utility access to site grading, Harland emphasizes the importance of “pad-ready” sites in attracting investment. Projects can take years to secure, and proactive site preparation is often the key to winning them.

3. Balancing Growth with Community Character is a Challenge Worth Embracing

As both a public servant and private developer, Harland advocates for a thoughtful approach to growth—one that welcomes new residents and investment without losing the identity of the city. “If we don’t grow, we die,” he says—but growth should serve the whole community.

4. Lansing’s Competitive Edge Lies in Collaboration

Whether preparing land for industrial use, rethinking incentives, or promoting incremental infill housing, success comes when cities, developers, and residents work together. Lansing’s central location, military-connected workforce, and evolving development philosophy position it well—if it continues to be bold and intentional.

Resources & Contact

• Harland Russell's LinkedIn
• City of Lansing Website
• Have podcast feedback or ideas? Email us at [email protected]

All music provided by Kris Bennets.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Ken and Joshua highlight how the City of Lansing is navigating a surge in development interest and carefully balancing different types of land use. They focus on the concept of “value per acre” as a tool for comparing property tax revenues across residential, commercial and industrial sites, and explain how this approach helps guide decision‐making about new projects.

They discuss how the City’s recent investment in infrastructure—particularly a major sewer line expansion—has positioned Lansing to attract new developments more effectively. Ken and Joshua also unpack the term “shovel‐ready,” emphasizing the importance of having roads, utilities, and correct zoning in place so that future projects can move quickly from idea to construction.

Beyond economic strategy, the co‐hosts explore what “vibrancy” means for a growing community—highlighting the need for varied housing types, a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, and local amenities that draw people into the heart of Lansing. They also share examples of how residents and local businesses can strengthen the city from within.

Here's what you can expect to learn in this episode:

• The role of “value per acre” in planning fiscally strong development
• How sewer and other infrastructure investments reduce risk for developers
• “Shovel‐ready” land: what it entails and why it attracts faster growth
• Balancing residential, commercial, and industrial zoning for a vibrant city
• Community‐driven growth and supporting local entrepreneurs

Contact & More Info

• Email the show at: [email protected]
• City of Lansing Website
• Rate and review on your favorite podcast platform to help others discover Thrive Lansing Kansas.

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Thrive Lansing, Kansas, Ken and Joshua sit down with Jeremy Greenamyre, a third-generation property developer shaping Lansing’s residential and commercial landscape. They discuss key real estate trends, market needs, development opportunities, and how local government can support growth.

Here's what you can expect to learn in this episode:

• Trends in Real Estate Development – Growing demand for single-level living, pet-friendly rentals, and maintenance-free housing.
• Commercial vs. Residential Market Needs – High occupancy rates due to a lack of new development, impacting Lansing’s commercial and residential sectors.
• Challenges to Development – Interest rates, post-COVID economic shifts, and infrastructure limitations.
• How Lansing Can Attract Developers – Fast-tracking zoning approvals, offering incentives, and improving access to major highways.
• Future of Lansing’s Growth – Expansion towards the south, leveraging new infrastructure, and planning for long-term development.

Lansing, Kansas is ripe for investment, with available land, tax incentives, and a supportive city council. Developers can capitalize on the demand for modern housing and well-positioned commercial spaces while benefiting from the area's proximity to the Kansas City metro.

Contact Information

Jeremy Greenamyre - Greenamyre Rentals

◦Website: https://greenamyre.com/

City of Lansing Podcast Email: [email protected]

City of Lansing Website

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Thrive Lansing, Kansas features an interview with Lisa Haack, the Executive Director of the Leavenworth County Development Corporation (LCDC). The hosts of the podcast are Ken Miller, the Public Information Officer for the City of Lansing, and Joshua Gentzler, the Community and Economic Development Director for the City of Lansing. We bring Lisa on to the podcast to discuss economic development in Leavenworth County, the role of LCDC, and how it collaborates with local communities like Lansing. As the Executive Director of LCDC, she provides insights into how the organization facilitates job creation and capital investment in the region.

Here's what you can expect to learn in this episode:

• LCDC's role in fostering economic growth in Leavenworth County, specifically how it focuses on industrial development and the creation and retention of jobs.

• The importance of industrial parks and how the Leavenworth County Port Authority develops them to attract businesses, including the work done to prepare land for development such as adding utilities and grading.

• The process of economic development projects and how they come together, including the collaboration between different Cities and organizations and how timelines can vary significantly.

• The challenges and opportunities for the City of Lansing in attracting industrial development, including the need for industrial zoned land, infrastructure, and a business-friendly approach.

• Funding mechanisms used by economic development organizations like LCDC and Leavenworth County Port Authority, and the challenges they face including the potential for a mill levy as a funding source and their upcoming survey that will ask Leavenworth County residents about their desire to support economic development.

• The potential economic impact of the Panasonic plant in DeSoto and its potential implications for the region, including Leavenworth County,

Contact Information

Lisa Haak - Leavenworth County Development Corporation (LCDC)

◦Website: lvcountyed.org

◦Phone Number: (913) 727-6111

City of Lansing Podcast Email: [email protected]

City of Lansing Website

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast reflects the views of the speakers and is based on data available at the time of recording. While we strive for accuracy, we encourage listeners to verify details independently for any critical decisions.

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join co-hosts Ken Miller, Public Information Officer, and Joshua Gentzler, Director of Community & Economic Development, as they take a deep dive into Lansing’s accomplishments in 2024. From residential developments to strategic land acquisitions, this episode reflects on the progress made in the past year and its impact on the city’s future. Tune in to hear about how Lansing is positioning itself for growth, fostering community, and enhancing quality of life.

• (00:00:00) Introduction and purpose of the episode.
• (00:01:09) Overview of new businesses opening in Lansing in 2024, including Victory Clinic, Take Five Oil, and Hotworx.
• (00:02:26) Discussion on the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO): What it is, why it matters, and how it shapes Lansing’s growth.
• (00:06:12) Exploration of mixed-use developments and their benefits for walkability and community building.
• (00:10:31) The importance of sustainable growth: Balancing fiscal responsibility with infrastructure investments.
• (00:14:25) Updates on residential developments: The Dunes Subdivision, Covington Woods Phase 2, and attainable housing projects.
• (00:20:49) Strategic land acquisitions like the Archdiocese Addition and their role in future city planning.
• (00:24:04) Highlights of community jewels: Kenneth Bernard Park, Lansing Aquatic Center, and key annual events like the Independence Fireworks Show.
• (00:34:05) Reflections and gratitude from the hosts, plus a call to action for listener engagement and feedback.

Key Takeaways:

• Lansing saw significant progress in new businesses, residential developments, and strategic land use.
• The Unified Development Ordinance is a cornerstone of sustainable and attractive community growth.
• Quality-of-life amenities, like parks and the upcoming Aquatic Center, continue to make Lansing a great place to live and work.

Call to Action:

• Share your feedback, questions, and topic suggestions at [email protected].
• Subscribe, rate, and review Thrive: Lansing Kansas on your favorite podcast platform to help us grow and reach more listeners.

Connect with Us:

Stay updated on Lansing’s projects and initiatives by visiting LansingKS.org.

Teaser for Next Episode:

We’ll welcome Lisa Haack, Director of the Leavenworth County Development Corporation, to discuss industrial development as the economic engine of the region.

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description:

In this inaugural episode of Thrive: Lansing Kansas, co-hosts Ken Miller, Public Information Officer, and Joshua Gentzler, Director of Community & Economic Development, introduce you to Lansing’s exciting journey of growth and opportunity. Learn about the city’s mission to enhance quality of life, support businesses, and attract new residents and developers. From infrastructure projects to regional developments, this episode sets the stage for the stories and strategies that make Lansing thrive.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• (00:00:00) Introduction to the podcast and its mission.
• (00:01:20) The importance of transparency and celebrating Lansing’s progress.
• (00:02:34) Key projects: municipal pool and 50-unit apartment complex on Mary Street.
• (00:04:26) Partnerships driving Lansing’s growth, including local developers and financial institutions.
• (00:05:37) A practical definition of economic development and its impact on Lansing.
• (00:06:53) How the Community Improvement District (CID) helped Main Street Dodge expand.
• (00:10:13) BASE grant-funded sewer expansion unlocking new development opportunities.
• (00:13:21) Regional projects like the American Royal, Mattel theme park, and World Cup 2026.
• (00:20:27) What growth means for Lansing residents and their quality of life.
• (00:23:02) Vision for Lansing’s future neighborhoods and developments.
• (00:25:44) How listeners can get involved: sharing feedback, subscribing, and rating the podcast.
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Resources Mentioned:

• Lansing Projects: Municipal Pool, Covington Woods Apartments, and BASE grant sewer expansion.
• Regional Developments: American Royal headquarters, Mattel theme park, and World Cup 2026.
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Call to Action:

• Subscribe to Thrive: Lansing Kansas on your favorite podcast platform.
• Share the podcast with friends, neighbors, and colleagues.
• Send your feedback and topic suggestions to: [email protected]

Connect with Us:

Stay informed about Lansing’s growth and upcoming episodes by visiting the city’s website or following us on social media.

All music used with permission from Kris Bennetts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.