By ELLE HUTCHINSON
Barton County Media Consultant
Barton County is extending the application deadline for the 2026 Façade Improvement Grant Program for businesses and property owners in Ellinwood and Hoisington.
During last week’s meeting, the Barton County Commission approved extending the FIG 26 deadline to 5 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 14, 2026, for the two cities. The extension provides additional time for eligible applicants to gather project details, receive contractor estimates, and complete the application process.
County Administrator Matt Patzner explained that the program provides financial assistance for façade improvements in defined areas, helping create visual impact while supporting economic prosperity, accessibility, and overall community quality.
Commissioners noted that the other participating cities have already received enough applications to meet or exceed available funding. The extension for Ellinwood and Hoisington is intended to give eligible businesses in those communities additional opportunity to participate.
Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson spoke in support of the program, emphasizing that the Façade Improvement Grant is part of a larger effort to strengthen Barton County’s commercial areas and support long-term growth.
“I think if you ask anybody whether our commercial properties are trending upward in appearance and value, or downward in appearance and value, for the first time since I’ve lived in Barton County, I believe everyone would say they’re trending upward,” Hutchinson said.
He added that economic development must be results-driven and that visible improvements across Barton County help show outside businesses that local communities are willing to invest in themselves.
“When businesses are looking at different communities to invest in, I think they’re looking at communities that invest in themselves,” Hutchinson said. “This has always been more than just cleaning up corridors and making our community look better. It’s about working together with our local business owners and taking care of those who have taken care of us for so long.”
This year marks an important step for the program, with all four major cities in Barton County working alongside the County toward a shared goal. Commissioners expressed pride in the continued collaboration and the visible progress taking place throughout local business districts.
The Commission approved the deadline extension, continuing Barton County’s commitment to supporting local businesses, strengthening communities, and encouraging improvements that benefit residents, visitors, and future development.
FIG 26 details, including applications and eligible areas, are available atwww.bartoncounty.org under the “Living in Barton County” tab. For additional information, contact Barton County at 620-793-1800 or email dwatson@bartoncounty.org.