“We are pleased to present Governor Colyer with our Intergovernmental Leadership Award,” said Erik Sartorius, Executive Director of the League. “Upon assuming the governorship, Governor Colyer brought a renewed commitment to open dialogue with cities in Kansas. Cities have been asked for opinions, ideas, and feedback during his tenure. The tone he set has carried throughout the levels of state government.”

Colyer was sworn into office as the 47^th Governor of Kansas on January 31, 2018 and was twice elected as Lieutenant Governor in 2010 and 2014. Prior to his statewide leadership role, he served in the Kansas Senate from 2009 to 2011 and the Kansas House of Representatives from 2007 to 2009.

“The wonderful thing about the American government is that it is ‘of the people, by the people, and for the people’,” said Governor Jeff Colyer. “At every level, be it national, state, or local, we have a responsibility to do what is right for those we represent. Part of that responsibility is finding ways to make different levels of government work together effectively. When I took office, one of my main goals was to have open lines of communication and cooperation between my office and the various local governments in Kansas. I am proud that in my time as Governor I have been able to strengthen the lines of communication among all levels of government and I hope that the benefit is passed on to those who I have been honored to represent.”

The Governor’s Office was supportive of some of the League’s legislative efforts during the 2018 session. He signed bills authorizing the Joint Legislative Transportation Task Force and the Statewide Broadband Expansion Planning Task Force, both of which have League representation. He signed HB2597 which amends when a mayor is considered a member of the governing body under K.S.A. 12-104. The Governor also signed H Sub for SB310, the bill that clarified the previously adopted Amusement Ride Act.  In June, the Governor announced that the Federal Fund Exchange Program, which assists local governments in funding local transportation projects, would return to the $.90-cents-on-the-dollar exchange rate (the level was decreased in 2017).

Governor Colyer launched the “Land in Kansas” strategic economic development initiative in July which takes a comprehensive, multi-agency approach to economic growth. The key components of the plan include a new state marketing campaign, a top-down review of economic development programs in the state, and a pilot program to enable communities across the state to better target specific areas for economic growth. Under the plan, several state agencies will each appoint an economic development liaison who will serve as the primary contact for economic development projects. The campaign will highlight the opportunities for individuals and industry to live and do business in Kansas, while also showcasing the strategic advantages of the state – including our central location, well-trained workforce, and pro-business atmosphere.

“As Kansas residents, we all want this state to succeed and grow and become the envy of other states,” said Sartorius. “To bring this about, all levels of government need to be able to cooperate and recognize the important roles they each play in providing services to residents. We at the League are grateful for Governor Colyer’s partnership and leadership this year.”

The Governor signed SB331, a bill that designated the Flint Hills Trail State Park and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park as part of the state park system. The bill also established the Flint Hills Advisory Council to study and assess the development, staffing, maintenance, and promotion of the Flint Hills Nature Trail. Other bills were signed in the 2018 legislative session which address municipal concerns including alcoholic liquor taxation, asset forfeiture, and new rules for law enforcement personnel records.

Governor Colyer is a fifth-generation Kansan raised in Hays. Dr. Colyer earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Georgetown University, a master’s degree in International Relations from Cambridge University, and a medical doctorate from University of Kansas, School of Medicine. Colyer was a White House Fellow under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, working in international affairs. Dr. Colyer and his wife Ruth reside in Johnson County and have been married since 1991. They have three daughters Alexandra, Serena, and Dominique.

We appreciate Governor Colyer’s efforts and public service. We appreciate his willingness to engage in an open dialogue and work to foster a greater quality of life for the residents of Kansas.