Thrive: Lansing Kansas
Thrive: Lansing Kansas
Podcast Description
"Thrive: Lansing Kansas" is your gateway to discovering the heart of growth and opportunity in Lansing, Kansas and Leavenworth County. Hosted by Ken Miller, Lansing’s Public Information Officer, and Joshua Gentzler, the City’s Director of Community & Economic Development, this podcast dives into the stories and strategies shaping our community’s future.Each episode explores exciting projects, innovative policies, and dynamic partnerships driving economic development, urban planning, and the people who invest in the community. With insights from local leaders, business owners, and regional experts, "Thrive: Lansing Kansas" brings you closer to the people and ideas fueling the area’s growth.Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or other interested party, join us to learn how Lansing is a hub of opportunity—and why now is the perfect time to be part of its journey. Let’s thrive together! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores themes of economic development, urban planning, and community engagement, with episodes discussing specific projects like the Panasonic plant's impact, the Unified Development Ordinance, and new business openings in Lansing. It aims to convey the importance of collaborative partnerships and proactive strategies shaping the region's future.
“Thrive: Lansing Kansas” is your gateway to discovering the heart of growth and opportunity in Lansing, Kansas and Leavenworth County. Hosted by Ken Miller, Lansing’s Public Information Officer, and Joshua Gentzler, the City’s Director of Community & Economic Development, this podcast dives into the stories and strategies shaping our community’s future.
Each episode explores exciting projects, innovative policies, and dynamic partnerships driving economic development, urban planning, and the people who invest in the community. With insights from local leaders, business owners, and regional experts, “Thrive: Lansing Kansas” brings you closer to the people and ideas fueling the area’s growth.
Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or other interested party, join us to learn how Lansing is a hub of opportunity—and why now is the perfect time to be part of its journey. Let’s thrive together!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
Disclaimer
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