When State Treasurer Dennis McKinney took office in January 2009, he realized that homebuilders weren't using a state program that provides low-interest home construction loans.
So McKinney's staff consulted homebuilders, realtors, bankers and lawmakers about ways to improve the program. Those meetings resulted in a series of changes, such as offering loans for construction of multi-family homes, designed to make the program more accessible.
McKinney said the improvements to the housing loan program, which will begin July 1, symbolized his pragmatic approach to solving problems.
"Number one, analyze the problem in detail," he said. "Consult with leaders, especially business leaders, to gather the best possible ideas. And then three, work across party lines — ignore party lines — and work with everyone we need to work with in order to solve the problem."
McKinney, who is seeking a full term as state treasurer, kicked off his campaign with a brief speech Tuesday evening in his hometown of Greensburg. It was the first stop in a statewide tour, which included stops in Wichita, Topeka and Overland Park.
For the full story, go to dodgecitydailyglobe.ks.newsmemory.com.
GREENSBURG —
