The U.S. Census Bureau has published information online ranking Geary County third in the nation among counties by percentage in population decrease for the July 1, 2016 to July 1, 2017 time frame.

The Geary County population was listed at 33,855 on July 1,2017, which was down from 35,208 on July 1, 2016.  That equates to a 3.8% decrease, and a numeric loss totaling 1,353 people.

By way of comparison with other years the Geary County population went from 35, 247 on April 1,2010 to a high of 37,886 on July 1, 2012. In succeeding years the population was counted at 36,777 in 2013, 36,459 in 2014,  36,682 for 2015 to 35,208 in 2016 and 33,855 for 2017.

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel was contacted for reaction, and noted he wanted to review the breakdown between city and county numbers. ” I think it just puts emphasis on the fact that we have to keep trying to diversity our economy here. ” Dinkel also added, “continue to push to try and get another brigade ( of soldiers ) in this community is big.”

Dinkel noted it may be negative in the short term. but is still growth from what the community experienced a few years ago. He added there must be continued review of services provided by the government with the costs, and also job availability.

DInkel also provided a different report from the Kansas League of Municipalities containing Kansas certified population numbers received a few months ago.  It showed Geary County went down from 37,030 population on July 1, 2016 down to 35,586 on July 1,2017. Junction City had a reduction in that report of 441 people during that time, Milford 23 and Grandview Plaza 67 residents. The balance of Geary County had a reported decrease of 913 residents.