There have been about 6,200 Soldiers deployed from Fort Riley but most of those are expected to be back at the installation in October, meaning there will be nearly a full contingent of troops on post at that point. That report has surfaced during discussion by officials participating in public meetings. It will be good news for families of the Soldiers, and for the local economy.

JC Post talked with City Manager Allen Dinkel following an economic development commission advisory committee meeting this week. “Oh, I think everybody is getting excited.” DInkel commented that during the session EDC Chairman Mark Powers had noted it was good to have the troops back because it would mean more money and people in town.  The City Manager stated,  “I know some of the local businesses have suffered sales-tax wise. Our ( City ) sales tax has held in place with last year but you always want to increase.”

Dinkel added the August sales tax revenue numbers have not come in yet, but the July numbers were down from July of 2018.

The subject of troops returning has also been mentioned at recent Military Affairs Council, Junction City Commission and Flint Hills Regional Council meetings.