The Superior Express -

When officials from Lincoln County, Kansas, launched a campaign to lure remote workers to their community about two hours west of Topeka, they hoped to attract five new residents. In the six months since then, more than 1,000 people have raised their hands to say they would consider moving to Lincoln County and joining the 2,849 people who already call it home. 

“It’s just been tremendous,” said Kelly Gourley, Lincoln County’s economic development foundation director, who manages the community’s remote worker recruitment program in coordination with MakeMyMove. “We have been overwhelmed by the positive reaction. Our new residents are just the best.”

One resident has already moved in. Three more accepted the offer and Gourley is sorting through the others to determine next steps. 

Tasha Jablonski and her family moved in in June. Already sold on the town, they were delighted when the Lincoln High School football team showed up to help with the heavy lifting.  

“They had the truck unloaded in an hour. They literally wouldn’t let me pick up a box,” Jablonski said. “Arriving in Lincoln, the greeting and support we received was nothing short of magical. If you’re looking for that small town life, this place is a gold mine.” 

Coach Colby Hamel, himself new to the community, had indicated he wanted to get his players more involved in the community. Gourley texted him with the idea of helping the town’s newest resident. His reply, according to Gourley, was: “When and where?”

Even native Kansans are benefiting from the campaign, which spotlighted Julie and Eddie Flores’ project to restore an historic home in danger of demolition. The couple blogs about the project and since their spotlight, they’ve attracted nearly 40,000 new followers.

Based on conversations with her peers in other states, Gourley said she thinks part of the attraction to Lincoln County is the fact that Denver, Dallas and other heavily populated areas keep growing into what used to be suburban or even rural areas.

“Lots of people love wide-open spaces and feel like they’ve been overtaken by the city,” she said. “Lincoln has plenty of space and we’re happy to offer that kind of lifestyle.”

Lincoln County’s incentive package includes:

$4,500 in cash

$5,000 cash bonus if spouse or partner is hired for a local, qualifying job

100 percent state income tax credit through 2026 tax year if they move within a Rural Opportunity Zone

A free lot to build a new home within the city of Lincoln

$500 credit for high-speed internet service

One year free membership at Post Rock Fitness

A dozen farm-fresh eggs each month for a year

A welcome potluck dinner with new neighbors and local leaders

An outdoor adventure like mountain biking, bird watch, boating or hunting area tour

Tea with Marilyn, the Mother of Lincoln County tourism