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Growing a Strategic Future

With a vision of a safe, healthy and thriving Bourbon County

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Bourbon County Economic Development • Rob Harrington • bedco2020@gmail.com

Strengthening the Local Tax Base

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Encourage expansion and diversifcation of the tax base by attracting and retaining capital intensive industries and encouraging property improvements throughout the county.

Encouraging Rural Revitalization

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Assist downtown revitalization and neighborhood business development by identifying additional resources to aid in economic development.

Developing a Healthy Workforce

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We will meet the needs of Industry leaders who look for a healthy local labor force. Investments to enhance quality of life and build a healthier workforce has the potential to yield dividends in the form of increased labor productivity.

Bourbon County By the Numbers

Population & Median Income

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bourbon County population in 2018 was 14,653 with a median household income of $42,594.

Daytime Population

A prominent daytime population, with many workers commuting to the industrial park with an 18-31% increase.

Cost of Living Index

The cost of living index for Fort Scott is 71.3 (based on a 100 pt. US average, according to Sperling’s Best Places).

Real Personal Income

Bourbon County real personal income has grown 80.1% from 1970-2017, more than the average non-metro Kansas community (69.9%).

Traffic Count

Two major highways, 69 and 54, run through Bourbon County. Highway 69, recently expanded to four-lane, averages 13,000 vehicles per day.

Top Industries by Wages Paid

Manufacturing and Education/Health Services represent about 55% of total wages paid in Bourbon County.

A Place Where Many Industries Thrive

Healthcare and Social Assistance

A healthy community is one of Bourbon County’s top priorities. Several healthcare providers serve the Bourbon County community with primary care, emergency department, and many ancillary services.

Nationwide, employment in healthcare services increased 92% from 1990 to 2015. For Bourbon County, in 2017, health services ranked number 3 in terms of employment. Also, in 2017, the health care sector’s impact on retail sales was $19,308,000, county sales tax impact of $270,000, and a total impact of $65,378,000. (Kansas Health Association, 2017)

Retail Trade

Just take a stroll down Historic Downtown Fort Scott and you will see the momentum and revitalization! You will fnd shops, retaurants, bars, and housing. Perfectly situated along Highway 69 directly across from the National Fort Scott Historic Site!

Agriculture

The majority of our land use in Bourbon County is for agriculture, with over 50% of the farms being Beef Cattle Ranch & Farms. We are also very proud of the woodland area, touting some of the best hunting and outdoor recreation in the region.

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Manufacturing

The Fort Scott Industrial Park houses several major manufacturers, a sector that pays, on average, 21.7% above average. Located south of Fort Scott on Highway 69, there is plenty of room for growth with shovel ready land available!

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Educational Services

Home to Fort Scott Community College, nationally renowned for the Rodeo Program! Bourbon County also boasts two school districts that see pride in offering fine arts courses!

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Fort Scott Community College

Fort Scott School District 234

Uniontown School District 235

Our Quality of Life is the Right Choice For You

You’ll love our close connections, ample space, and commitment to healthy living.

Where We Work
Where we eat
Where we play

Building a Healthier Bourbon County

Learn about the progress being made by the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team!

Bourbon County Economic News