Morris County Public RecordsKansas

Morris County, KS, had around 3,600 registered voters as of 2022, primarily Republican (about 65%), with Democrats and unaffiliated making up the rest. Voters participate in general, primary, and local elections; recent turnout was around 55% in the 2022 midterms. Polling locations include the Courthouse in Council Grove and community buildings across the county. The County Clerk’s office administers elections. Recent results saw Republicans winning countywide offices by margins exceeding 40%. Issues often center on agriculture, education, and taxes. The two main parties represented are Republican and Democrat, with minor Libertarian presence.

As of the 2020 Census, Morris County, KS, had a population of 5,386. The median age was 45.8 years, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female residents. The racial composition was 91.6% White, 1.5% Black or African American, 1.4% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 4.6% of two or more races; 4.3% identified as Hispanic or Latino. The county has a predominantly older, non-Hispanic White population.

Morris County, KS, has four public schools, including Council Grove High School. About 89% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 16% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools in the county have average test scores close to the Kansas state average. The student-to-teacher ratio is around 11:1, supporting individualized instruction. School safety measures and specialized educational programs, like vocational training and college prep, are in place. Adult education opportunities, such as GED preparation, are also available through community partnerships, contributing to lifelong learning in the county.

As of 2022, Morris County, KS, has an employment rate of approximately 59.2%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (19.7%), Educational Services (16.1%), and Retail Trade (11.2%). Leading occupations include Office & Administrative Support (13.7%) and Management (10.4%). Around 84% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21.8 minutes. Key employment locations are Council Grove and surrounding areas, with about 77% of residents working within the county and 23% commuting to nearby regions such as Geary and Lyon counties.

Morris County, KS, has a homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with median home values around $95,000 in 2023, slightly rising by 2% year-over-year. Rentals comprise 25% of the housing, with average monthly rents at $750. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, though some duplexes and small apartments exist, mainly in towns like Council Grove. Property taxes average $1,500 annually. Neighborhoods are generally quiet and rural, with Council Grove offering the most amenities. The market remains stable, with modest price appreciation and limited new development.

Morris County, KS, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county recorded approximately 30 property crimes and 8 violent crimes in 2022, with no homicides reported. The overall crime rate stands at about 12.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement actively encourages community engagement and transparent reporting, contributing to the county’s reputation for safety. Most reported crimes involve theft and minor assaults, and proactive policing efforts have helped keep crime rates stable in recent years.