City of Russell, Kansas

08/21/2026

Chuck and Kim Slusser Selected as the Russell Community Impact Award Winners for July 2026

The Russell Community Impact Award Committee is pleased to announce Chuck and Kim Slusser as the distinguished recipients of the July 2026 Russell Community Impact Award. The Russell Community Impact Award spotlights and honors a City of Russell individual, business, or organization whose selfless efforts have made a tangible, measurable impact on the community. The Community Impact Award recipient has worked to make Russell a better place to live, work, and play, shaping a stronger, more vibrant community for generations, embodying the community's values and potential.

Chuck and Kim have called Russell home for a short five years, but in that time, they've made a big impact on the community. They've gotten involved with many local organizations, sponsored activities, and offered support. Throughout their time here, they've sponsored movies and volunteered at the Dream Theater, volunteered at local events such as Wicked Fest and Bricks, Broncs & BBQ, and most recently helped Russell celebrate the 250th Independence Day with a weekend packed full of activities.

Where you find one, you will likely find the other nearby, lending a hand, volunteering their time, or simply doing whatever they can to help. They bring a fresh perspective with an open mind to conversations to help find ways to keep Russell moving forward. Five years may not seem like a long time, but their commitment to Russell has made it clear that you don't have to be here for generations to make a difference. Thank you, Chuck and Kim, for choosing to call Russell home. We're so grateful to have people like you who show up, pitch in, and help make Russell a better place for all of us.

As the winner of the Russell Community Impact Award, Chuck and Kim received a $250 donation to the non-profit of their choice. They chose the Russell County Historical Society as the recipient. Mayor Jim Cross and KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio representative Travis Hendrix presented Chuck and Kim with a $250 check at the August 18, 2026, city council meeting.

If you know of someone like Chuck and Kim who is making a positive impact on Russell, you can nominate them for the Russell Community Impact Awards. By participating in this initiative, you play a vital role in recognizing and honoring those who contribute to the community's growth and well-being.

Nominations for the Russell Community Impact Awards can be submitted online at www.russellcity.org or downloaded from www.russellcity.org or www.krsl.com. Additionally, nomination forms are available for pickup at the City Building, 133 W. 8th Street, or KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio, 1984 N. Main Street.

Let's come together to celebrate individuals like Chuck and Kim who embody the spirit of Russell and make our community a better place for all.

For more information about the Russell Community Impact Awards, please get in touch with Kayla at 785.483.6311.

08/21/2026

Russell Residents: This Is Your Opportunity to Be Heard!

We are seeking public input for the Russell Safe Streets for All Action Plan. Whether you walk, bike, drive, or simply want safer streets for your family, we want your feedback.

🗓 Survey Open: Through August 31 Scan the QR code or visit the website to participate: https://arcg.is/jiKnq0

Together, we can create a transportation system that is safer, more connected, and works for everyone in Russell.

08/16/2026

We have reports of several customers experiencing an outage. Crews are out working to determine cause.

08/11/2026

Help Make Russell Safer for Everyone

The City of Russell is developing a Safe Streets for All Action Plan, and community input is a critical part of the process.

From school routes and intersections to sidewalks and roadways, we want to know what transportation safety issues are important to you. Take our survey by August 15 and help us build a safer future for Russell.

Every response makes a difference!

https://arcg.is/jiKnq0

08/05/2026

📢 We Want to Hear From You, Russell!

The Russell Safe Streets for All Action Plan survey is now open through August 15!

Your feedback will help identify transportation safety needs and guide future improvements for people who drive, walk, bike, roll, and travel throughout our community.

✅ Share your concerns
✅ Identify areas that need attention
✅ Help shape a safer Russell for everyone
Take the survey today by scanning the QR code or visiting our website. Your voice matters!

https://arcg.is/jiKnq0

07/28/2026

The Russell Community Impact Award highlights the remarkable attributes that define true community impact, setting a standard for excellence that will inspire future generations.

Do you know an individual, business, or organization that embodies these attributes?

Dedication and Service: Demonstrated dedication and service in improving the lives of others within our community, showcasing leadership qualities as a role model for others.

Innovation and Sustainability: Innovative problem-solving and sustainable solutions that advocate for the greater community, inspiring engagement and support.

Collaboration and Contribution: Commitment to collaborative efforts for nurturing the community's greater good, making notable contributions to its development and growth.

Inclusivity: Ensuring inclusivity by actively supporting the entire community and fostering an environment where all can thrive.

Unwavering Commitment: Displaying unwavering commitment by investing significant time and resources towards the community's continuous development.
Selflessness: Acting selflessly, giving back to the community without expecting anything, guided purely by altruistic motives.

By nominating a deserving recipient, you become an integral part of this exciting initiative, demonstrating your commitment to making Russell a stronger, more vibrant community.

Nominations for the Russell Community Impact Awards can be submitted online at www.russellcity.org, or you can download the nomination form at www.russellcity.org or www.krsl.com or pick one up in person at the City Building, 133 W. 8th Street, or KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio, 1984 N. Main Street.

Together, let's shine a spotlight on those who embody the spirit of Russell and show our appreciation for their tireless efforts.

07/24/2026

Today is the last day of the pool season! We will be open the remainder of the day until 6:00 p.m.

Unfortunately, we're experiencing a mechanical failure of the pump. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding.

Thank you for a great pool season!

07/13/2026

Today’s the day we’ve been planning for—and we hope you’ll join us this evening for our Community Town Hall to help shape the future of housing in Russell.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a young professional, a business owner, a landlord, a homeowner, or simply someone who cares about our community, your voice matters.

This is your opportunity to:
🏠 Share your ideas about housing needs
💬 Ask questions and learn more about the Housing Assessment Tool (HAT)
🤝 Help identify priorities that can lead to future housing investments and funding opportunities

📅 Today!
🕠 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers
133 W. 8th Street • Russell, KS

We will have the Executive Director of Northwest Kansas Plan & Development there to facilitate the meeting also joined by the Regional Housing Planner from the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc. Bring a friend. Bring a neighbor. Bring your ideas.

☀️ Good Morning, Russell! Today is the day! 🏡

Today’s the day we’ve been planning for—and we hope you’ll join us this evening for our Community Town Hall to help shape the future of housing in Russell.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a young professional, a business owner, a landlord, a homeowner, or simply someone who cares about our community, your voice matters.

This is your opportunity to:
🏠 Share your ideas about housing needs
💬 Ask questions and learn more about the Housing Assessment Tool (HAT)
🤝 Help identify priorities that can lead to future housing investments and funding opportunities

📅 Today!
🕠 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers
133 W. 8th Street • Russell, KS

We will have the Executive Director of Northwest Kansas Plan & Development there to facilitate the meeting also joined by the Regional Housing Planner from the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc. Bring a friend. Bring a neighbor. Bring your ideas.

Together, we’re building a stronger Russell County—one conversation at a time.

We’ll see you tonight!

07/13/2026

Join us for our Community Town Hall as we gather feedback for the Housing Assessment Tool (HAT)—an important initiative that will help identify our community’s housing needs, priorities, and opportunities for future investment.

Whether you’re a resident, business owner, employer, landlord, realtor, or community stakeholder, your voice matters. Together, we can create a housing strategy that supports workforce growth, economic development, and a stronger Russell.

📅 Monday, July 13
🕠 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers
133 W. 8th Street, Russell, KS

🏡 Your Voice. Our Future. Join the Conversation! 🏡

Russell County is planning for the future, and we need your input!

Join us for our Community Town Hall as we gather feedback for the Housing Assessment Tool (HAT)—an important initiative that will help identify our community’s housing needs, priorities, and opportunities for future investment.

Whether you’re a resident, business owner, employer, landlord, realtor, or community stakeholder, your voice matters. Together, we can create a housing strategy that supports workforce growth, economic development, and a stronger Russell.

📅 Monday, July 13
🕠 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 City Council Chambers
133 W. 8th Street, Russell, KS

Come share your ideas on:
🏠 Housing availability and affordability
👷 Workforce housing needs
📈 Community growth opportunities
🤝 Priorities for future housing investment

Together, we can build a stronger future for Russell County. Share so we can get the word out and give the opportunity for all voices to be heard!

07/10/2026

Dr. Tyrel Somers Selected as the Russell Community Impact Award Winner for May 2026

The Russell Community Impact Award Committee is pleased to announce Dr. Tyrel Somers as the distinguished recipient of the May 2026 Russell Community Impact Award. This award recognizes individuals, businesses, or organizations whose exceptional contributions have significantly enriched the fabric of the Russell community.

Dr. Somers' nomination described that he exemplifies the spirit of community impact through his unwavering dedication to Russell, Kansas. Despite an already demanding schedule, he consistently invests his time and energy into initiatives that strengthen and uplift the community. From actively engaging with local organizations to writing grants that bring critical resources into this rural area, Dr. Somers has planted deep roots and demonstrates a long-term commitment to Russell's growth and sustainability.
Dr. Somers is a tireless advocate for Russell, constantly promoting its strengths and encouraging others to see its potential-often inspiring them to fully see the vision of what the community can become. His ability to connect with others through his kind demeanor and collaborative approach fosters meaningful partnerships and motivates individuals to get involved.
Dr. Somers has played a pivotal role in advancing key initiatives, including spearheading the Rural Champion application, which was approved and will bring additional positive change and impact to the Russell community. He continually seeks innovative ways to enhance the community through multiple channels, influencing others to act and contribute. His leadership, selflessness, and dedication have made a measurable and lasting impact, positioning Russell for continued growth and success.
As the winner of the Russell Community Impact Award, Dr. Somers received a $250 donation to the non-profit of his choice. He chose the Dream Theatre as the recipient. Mayor Jim Cross and KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio Station Manager Mike McKenna presented Dr. Somers with a $250 check at the July 7, 2026, city council meeting.

If you know of someone like Dr. Somers who is making a positive impact on Russell, you can nominate them for the Russell Community Impact Awards. By participating in this initiative, you play a vital role in recognizing and honoring those who contribute to the community's growth and well-being.

Nominations for the Russell Community Impact Awards can be submitted online at www.russellcity.org or downloaded from www.russellcity.org or www.krsl.com. Additionally, nomination forms are available for pickup at the City Building, 133 W. 8th Street, or KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio, 1984 N. Main Street.
Let's come together to celebrate individuals like Dr. Somers who embody the spirit of Russell and make our community a better place for all.

For more information about the Russell Community Impact Awards, please get in touch with Kayla at 785.483.6311.