The current federal grant that funds the Flint Hills Regional Council is set to expire in 2015, forcing the council to try and find other funding options.

Last week the council restructured and split the director duties between Bill Clark, Chief Executive Officer, and Gary Stith, Chief Operating Officer. That split is designed to save money for the regional council.

Clark explained that currently he is focusing on the day to day business funding aspect. But he will soon be focusing on how the council will become self sustaining long term.

“Whether that’s looking for grants at the federal level or really looking at other philanthropic organizations, foundations for example, that maybe interested in partnering with the regional council as we go forward,” Clark said.

The formation of a new Economic Development District could also provide a future revenue source for the regional council.

“It’s an organization designed to work together from a cooperative partner perspective,” Clark said.

To receive planning funds the district must first be recognized at the federal level by the Economic Development Administration.

“We then can receive planning funds for these organizations to move forward together regionally and those planning funds are available every year.”

The funds can be used for anything tied to marketing in the area, industry growth, jobs and tourism.

The council is also establishing a Regional Transit Council, which could provide another revenue source for the agency in the future.