Western Cooperative Electric announced a new community partnership with the Olmitz Park Project, a grassroots effort focused on establishing a much-needed public park in the heart of Olmitz.
Olmitz, a small town in Barton County with a population of approximately 90 residents, is quietly booming with youth – roughly 30 of those residents are children. Despite its size, the town has no central park or gathering space for families, children, or visitors.
Through this partnership, Western Cooperative Electric will focus its 2026 community efforts on helping the Olmitz Park Committee raise funds to transform a donated open area in the middle of town into a welcoming, family friendly park. Renderings for the proposed park have already been developed, and once completed, the space will be open for both community members and visitors.
Olmitz continues to attract visitors from across the region, particularly to That “New” Place Bar & Grill and the town’s well-known church, which recently experienced significant damage from a break-in. The proposed park represents an opportunity to bring renewed energy, pride, and connection to the town while honoring its resilience and strong sense of community.
Fundraising efforts kick off Jan. 18
The fundraising initiative will officially kick off on Sunday, Jan. 18, with a community soup luncheon titled “Bowls, Rolls and Power Poles,” hosted by Western Cooperative Electric. Participants will have their choice of chili or chicken noodle, and a cinnamon roll, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Knights Building, 209 Main St., in Olmitz. The event will be offered as a freewill donation meal, with all proceeds benefiting the Olmitz Park Project.
Additional fundraising events are already in the works, including a Save the Date for an Adult Prom on May 2. The evening will include dinner, dancing, and auction items, with a limited number of tickets available. Organizers note it will make a perfect early Mother’s Day date gift. Ticket sales information will be announced soon.
Beyond events, the Olmitz Park Committee plans to pursue grant funding and seek donations from area businesses, organizations, and individuals throughout 2026 to make the park a reality.
A thank you to the community
The Olmitz Park Committee would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to previous donors and supporters. Past donations have already been put to meaningful use, including assisting with cleanup and supplies following the church break-in, along with other smaller community improvement projects.
“This park is about more than playground equipment,” committee member Krisa Schneider shared. “It’s about giving our kids a place to play, families a place to gather, and our town a space that reflects the care and pride we have for Olmitz.”
Sponsors stated Western Cooperative Electric is honored to support this effort and invites the public to follow along, participate in upcoming events, and help bring new life and lasting impact to this small but thriving Kansas community.
For more information, follow on Facebook at “Father Murphy Foundation – Olmitz, KS” or “Western Cooperative Electric Assn., Inc.” or contact the Park Committee atolmitzparkproject@gmail.com or Christina Hayes, member services manager, atchayes@westerncoop.com.
