[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 164 (Thursday, October 12, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1370]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             UNIFIED GOVERNMENT OF WYANDOTTE COUNTY AND KCK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEVIN YODER

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 12, 2017

  Mr. YODER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 20th 
anniversary of the formation of the Unified Government of Wyandotte 
County and Kansas City, Kansas, and recognize the community and people 
who helped make the consolidation possible.
  In 1997, the governments of Kansas City, Kansas and Wyandotte County 
opted to consolidate into one entity in the effort to help the city and 
county become a prosperous community in Kansas. That vision and 
foresight led to 20 years of growth and prosperity in the area.
  I've witnessed firsthand some great successes of Wyandotte County in 
the last 20 years--rebuilding neighborhoods, diversifying the local 
economy and expanding the tax base. The consolidation has led to a 
better quality of life for residents, and a booming tourism industry 
for the state. The Kansas Speedway really led the way out west and 
Sporting KG's Children's Mercy Park stands out as one of the best, 
state of the art soccer stadiums across the country and the world.
  Mr. Speaker, the Unified Government should be proud of their 
successes on this 20th anniversary. I'm honored to represent this 
county in Congress and to be a part of their enriched community. Thank 
you to the local leaders and residents who came together to make this 
vision a reality.

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