Sebelius Calls for New Approach to Rural Development

Governor says Kansas' efforts to expand opportunity could be model for the nation

Nicole Corcoran, Press Secretary
June 27, 2007

WASHINGTON, DC - A new approach to rural development is needed, Governor Kathleen Sebelius said today, telling Congress it was time to help rural communities develop the ability to bring citizens together around a shared vision for their communities' future.  Sebelius was on Capitol Hill testifying to the U.S. House Appropriations Committee's Agriculture Subcommittee as part of the National Rural Assembly.

"We must give communities the knowledge and tools they need to come together and set their own course, and then we must ensure they have the skilled leadership needed to keep the community united on that course," Sebelius said.

Sebelius highlighted the Public Square Process, which is being utilized in Greensburg and in other communities around Kansas.

"The Public Square Process brings the community together, rebuilding lines of communication and helping residents and business leaders come to a consensus about the direction they want to go. This then allows them to follow a long-term plan, rather than just applying for whatever grants and programs become available," Sebelius said.  "We're seeing the bonds between residents strengthened by the process of developing a shared vision for the community, which is outstanding and will help them overcome future challenges," she continued.

Sebelius also told the committee that the current "alphabet soup" of federal programs leave too many rural communities behind because of overly restrictive rules and a one-size-fits-all mentality. She called for an easing of restrictions on those programs since small communities don't have the same resources as large ones when it comes to seeking and administering federal grants.

The Governor pointed out Kansas' new Office of Rural Opportunity, which will help communities navigate the bureaucracy and develop a strategic plan that allows them to better use existing assistance programs. She also called for special help for rural entrepreneurs.

"We've seen the success of micro-loans in other countries - it's time to bring that success home by giving entrepreneurs the start-up support they need to bring new businesses to rural communities," she said. "The
opportunity to create off-farm jobs, to allow people to supplement their income and bring new businesses to small towns is too great for us to pass up."

Sebelius' testimony to the Agriculture Subcommittee is the first of two appearances on Capitol Hill she'll make today. Later this morning she'll discuss the importance of early childhood education with the Joint Economic Committee.