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The Board of County Commissioners encourages citizen participation in local governance processes. The public is invited to participate in the meeting. Annotated agendas, a copy of the rules, BOCC materials, meeting schedules and videos are available at https://boccmeetings.jocogov.org/OnBaseAgendaOnline/.
 
Thursday, September 4, 2025
 
Chairperson Kelly proclaimed National Direct Support Professionals Appreciation Week in the county and recognized direct support professionals working in Developmental Support.
 
Public comments lasted about 15 minutes.  A commenter thanked the Board for the quality of life in the county and asked that the resolution for expanded language access to the ballot be brought forward. (Twelve percent of residents speak Spanish.)  Other commenters complained about the county budget, property taxes, the county’s Moody’s AA rating, expenses related to the Evergreen Building, and other issues. More residents requested temporary and permanent homeless shelters in the county. One commenter complained at length about the public safety sales tax.
 
Notes for the Record
The Board accepted the Kansas limited warranty deed from Sunflower Redevelopment LLC for Lot 4, Astra Enterprise Park 2nd Plat, a subdivision of De Soto, for the Sunflower Fire Station ground, about 9.2 acres.
 
Consent Agenda
 3. The Board approved an application for a conditional use permit renewal for an RV, Boat and Trailer parking/storage facility, on property zoned PRB1, Planned Rural Retail Business District, at 19840 Floyd Street.
 
 4. Commissioners approved a change order authority of $231,000 with Rodriguez Mechanical Contractors, Inc. for the removal of existing concrete pavement on State Line Road, as part of the State Line Force Main Project. The Wastewater General Manager was also authorized to execute change orders related to this work, including any individual change orders exceeding $150,000, provided the total does not surpass $231,000.
 
Action Agenda
Items 5, 6, and 7 were moved to the action agenda at Ashcraft’s request.
 
The Board unanimously appointed the following:
5. To the JOCO Mental Health Advisory Board:
--Dr. Kate Lamb & Mike Seitz (Third District) and Wade Borchers (Fifth District).
Ashcraft commented that his appointment reflects a desire to add a member with a law enforcement background to the newly reorganized Board.
6. To the JOCO Public Art Commission:
--Jeff Serven and Kemet Coleman (Chair) and Emily Vietti (Fourth District).
7.  To the JOCO Solid Waste Management Committee:
--John McConnell (Second District).
 
 
Management Reports
 
JOCO Airport Commission Fly Quiet Program—This program began on July 1 to increase awareness of noise impacts by aircraft on surrounding communities and inform pilots of preferred flight paths. Allenbrand asked about the noise from Chinook helicopters at the New Century Airport. These flights will end in this area on Sept. 7th.  Pilots are the final authority on flight decisions once planes are airborne, making this a voluntary program. 
 
Kevin McGuire spoke about the 2025 Kansas Mental Health Summit, which took place at Fort Hays State University on August 26th and 27th. Involving all three branches of government and behavioral health professionals, this Kansas gathering is part of a broader national movement transforming behavioral health outcomes through innovative court and community partnerships.   Local and national speakers educated and informed participants on ways each system partner can contribute.
 
JOCO Mental Health Director Tim DeWeese led a panel discussion with nationally recognized figures, such as Melissa Etheridge, sharing personal stories.  Johnson County has created a good blueprint for serving justice-involved individuals with mental health needs, identifying a continuum of care using cross-sector prioritizing coordination among law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations. In response to Hanzlick’s query, McGuire explained that addiction treatment programs were included, ensuring that substance use disorders are addressed with parity and urgency.  Kelly stated that it’s necessary to have a long-term vision for the opioid settlement funds, which requires trusted local partners to help with both emergency crises and ongoing issues, investing not just in reactive services, but in sustainable, community-rooted infrastructure.
The Friends of JOCO Disability Services is the recipient of the Overland Park Mayor’s 2025 Holiday Fund. Janelle Bowers of Johnson County Disability Services spoke, noting that 24 single-family homes have been re-zoned to duplexes, which they hope will be open by April. 
 
Commission Comments
 
Meyers reported that he met with the DEI Coalition, which will hold a meet-and-greet on October 10th.
 
Brewer volunteered at the Cooling Center at Overland Park Christian Church on Labor Day. She noted that one in five people in our county who are experiencing homelessness are over the age of 55. The January Point in Time (PIT) count, conducted by United Community Services, identified 253 individuals experiencing homelessness. She reminded the Board that the Kansas Housing Advocacy Network (KHAN) has some good resources for learning about the issue. https://kshomeless.com/khan/
 
The new Assistant County Counselor, Amanda Langenheim, was introduced.
 
The Board adjourned for lunch, followed by an afternoon study session on county fiscal health, the World Cup, and other priorities.
 
Thursday, August 28, 2025
 
Chairperson Kelly began today’s meeting by calling for a moment of silence and offering remarks about the urgent need for measures improving gun safety to protect our children, pledging to work with the legislature on this issue.
 
Public Comments lasted about 20 minutes.
           Commenters remarked on the threat to the Desoto water and power supply by a planned Artificial Intelligence data center, a tax on the courthouse facility and repeated Old Testament passages. A commenter also noted the importance of more cold weather shelters in the county, the difficulties of living on the streets for both the aged and the young. A person commented about the budget, stating that he was running for the Chair of the Board and promoting his campaign; another commenter complained about DEI “gun control,” masks, and blamed the tragedy in Minneapolis on DEI.
 
Consent Agenda
2. The commissioners approved an information technology services agreement with Johnson County Park and Recreation District (JCPRD) to house equipment in the data center at the County Communications Center for a fee of $2,365.35 for the first year with a three percent (3%) annual increase for five years. Equipment must be moved from the current storage area to bring this space up to fire codes.
 
4. The Board also approved the Kansas City Regional Resource Sharing Agreement (RSA) to facilitate the sharing of personnel, equipment, and services across the region during emergencies.  The RSA serves as an "agreement of last resort" for emergencies in which no other existing agreement applies. It improves regional readiness by:
• Clarifying liability, governance, and operational expectations for shared resources.
• Enabling cross-state mutual support without requiring a formal disaster declaration.
• Supplementing rather than replacing existing agreements.
• Providing flexibility to share any type of resource, including non-traditional ones such as
public information officers, logistics personnel, or recovery planners.
 
Action Agenda
Item 3 was removed from the Consent Agenda and placed on the Action Agenda at the request of Ashcraft.
 
 3. Commissioners approved a policy for the rendering of mutual aid in times of disaster to other municipalities and public safety agencies inside or outside the state of Kansas, to enhance Johnson County Government's ability to provide emergency assistance with or without a disaster declaration, both inside Kansas and across the state line. Ashcraft said he supported the item but wanted to know more about the phrase “Standard mutual aid protocols.” Dean Roberson defined the phrase as follows: the financial and operational processes governing the costs and recovery of costs related to recovery during emergencies.
          Ashcraft asked that staff look at policies for directing emergency management expenses. Kelly stated that effective response to emergencies requires flexibility, but due diligence and discussions will continue. Fast asked for a larger discussion in the context of the billions of dollars being cut from FEMA and the resulting lack of coverage for response to emergencies. Brewer restated her understanding of Ashcraft’s concern, stating that recovery from a flooding disaster is extremely long and difficult. Allenbrand reminded everyone of two county disasters: the flooded buildings from an ice storm and the evictions from Aspen Place as a result of its condemnation by Desoto.
 
The Board approved the following budgets:
5. The Fiscal Year 2026 budgets for Johnson County Consolidated Fire District No. 1, Johnson County Fire District No. 1, and Johnson County Fire District No.
 
6. The Fiscal Year 2026 budget for Northwest Consolidated Fire District. This is a maintenance level budget which keeps the mill levy flat. Ashcraft and Allenbrand both noted the need for increased budgets for the Fire Departments in light of growth.
 
7. The Fiscal Year 2026 budget for Consolidated Fire District No. 2. Chief Chick commented that the current budget was the most difficult in 25 years, but this is a maintenance-level budget that keeps the mill levy flat.
             A representative of the firefighters union spoke, noting increased demand for services and inflation in the face of no increase in the mill levy. Either the mill levy must be increased, services decreased, or other revenue streams for financing besides property taxes must be obtained. He suggested that it is important to distinguish between efficient and effective delivery of services. Decreasing services in the name of so-called efficiencies is not an option. He invited the Board to join in addressing these challenges.  
            Commissioners Hanzlick, Brewer, Fast and Allenbrand all commented, several reiterating the need for other sources of funding besides property taxes. Ashcraft repeated his concerns about the budgets, mill levy increases and other questions. He struggles with the addition of three firefighters at the expense of the equipment replacement fund, and he urged that an independent consultant be retained For FD #2. Kelly stated that they would allow continued discussion on this issue but go ahead with the vote.  
             Ashcraft made a motion that the county staff hire a third-party consultant to assist the Board of Fire District #2 Board with their budgeting process. Kelly stated that the commissioners have a role here, as does the Fire District Board, and cooperation among county entities can lead to increased efficiencies and effectiveness. Cooperation among county entities is vital to increased agency efficiencies and effectiveness. However, a consultant should only be hired for the fire district board if they request it. Local governments do have home rule so we must respect the independence of district boards and avoid imposing decisions on them.
             Chief Chick stated that the chair of their own fire district board has noted that no fire district in the state is an accredited agency right now, and their own fire board would like to work on that, working with consultants in order to receive international accreditation to improve knowledge, better finance processes, and knowledge.  Hanzlick commented that the district-initiated international accreditation effort could be better suited for making the necessary improvements. Meyer stated that this fire district needs some help, so he’ll support Ashcraft’s motion. Brewer said that she found Ashcraft’s amendment to be too prescriptive and suggested it be redrafted.  
           After some discussion by several commissioners, Kelly offered a substitute motion in order to avoid being overly prescriptive: Fire District #2 will be invited to a study session in the next 90 days so that they can better understand the status and resources available. Substitute motion passed, 6 to 1. No: Ashcraft.
 
8. Commissioners approved the addition of three full time equivalent behavioral health specialists for the Johnson County Mental Health Center to provide respite care services for children and adolescents at the Youth and Family Services (YFS) facility.  Brewer noted that respite care for families is often key in keeping families together.
 
9. The Board approved $791,473.44 of HOME-ARP Supportive Services, non-profit operating and capacity building federal grant funds to subrecipient organizations as recommended by the Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee. According to most recent data, 33.3% of Johnson County households are renters, and rent assistance is a critical need in the community.  Recipients include Catholic Charities, SafeHome, ReStart and others.  Rita Carr, United Community Services, commented in favor of this item. These are one-time specifically allocated monies with a spend down deadline of 2030. Ashcraft objected to the outcomes and requested an audit after a year.   Brewer stated that in Kansas, an eviction follows a person for five years, making rehousing difficult and making rental assistance a real outcome.  Kelly, stating that he wanted to reorient the big picture, noted that the responsibility of county government is to provide human services, and preventing people from falling into homelessness is our duty. With one in 20 children and 50,000 individuals (comparable to the population of Lenexa) in Johnson County living below the poverty line, maintaining housing for those in need is a moral obligation. Rental assistance and eviction mediation are humane cost avoidance mechanisms that impact the financial bottom line of the county. 

10. The Board adopted the fiscal Year 2026 Budget and FY 2026 – 2030 Capital Improvement Program as proposed. The County has a Moody’s Triple A rating in one category and Double A in several other categories, which allows us to issue debt at lower interest rates. Robin Symes provided an overview of County reserves, working capital and other items. 
  
11. The Board voted to adopt the rules and regulations for the Civil Service Board of Johnson County, Kansas, governing certain employees of the Sheriff’s Office. This action maintains the CSB's current structure of five members to be nominated by the Chair and submitted to the BOCC for majority approval and to serve a four-year term. In addition, former County employees may serve on the CSB, but former Johnson County Sheriff’s Deputies are disallowed.  This change removes the current two employee representatives, aligning with other County Civil Service Boards and preventing potential conflicts of interest in personnel matters.  Expertise in administration, employment law, public administration, government management, or law enforcement supervision is required for membership. Also, at least three members must have significant experience in law enforcement. 
 
The Board adjourned to an executive session for consultation with counsel concerning possible litigation concerning the Corrections Department.
 
The Board returned and adjourned for a second executive session for consultation with counsel concerning possible litigation concerning the Department of Planning, Housing and Community Development department.
 
The Board returned from executive session. No action was taken. The Board adjourned for a third executive session for consultation with legal counsel to discuss possible litigation concerning the restructure of the Johnson County Human Resources Department. No action was taken.
 
The Board adjourned for lunch before the management reports.
 
The meeting reconvened with Janee’ Hanzlick presiding.
 
Manager’s Memo
 
Where Our Discarded Materials Go in the KC Metro—Landfills are regarded as a precious resource which is being rapidly depleted, with our own landfills scheduled to reach capacity in the next 12 to 17 years. As a metro area we discard about 3 million tons of waste per year.  A study determined that our waste is worth about $250,000,000, and in a circular economy where our waste is recycled and reused, about 5,000 new jobs would be created. The plan is to work with economic partners, Chambers of Commerce, Economic Councils and others to further develop a circular economy. 
   
The ARC Garden: Growing Food, Fostering Community-- In partnership with Kansas State, this garden—complete with an orchard—is supported by the Adult Residential Center Probation Program, a 398-bed, community-based initiative for adult offenders referred by the District Court. Through this program, participants cultivate fresh vegetables and fruit, which are donated to the SafeHome Women’s Center, helping nourish and support survivors in our community. 
 ARC Garden Slide.pptx
 
August 21, 2025

Public comments lasted about 10 minutes.  Remarks included praise for the county’s innovations and support for gun safety, county services, diversity, immigration and more. One individual complained about county employment numbers, the budget hearing, taxes, and defended unfunded mandates. One person offered a compelling plea for both transitional and accessible housing, thanking the Commissioners for working on this. Complaints were also offered about last night’s budget hearing, property taxes, an abandoned house, the courthouse, child support enforcement, and library books banned by Moms for Liberty.

Consent Agenda
The Board dissolved the Johnson County Emergency Communications Center Advisory Board because it duplicates the work of the Johnson County Fire and Emergency Services Chief’s Association.

The Commissioners agreed to accept the Mobilize Crisis Response FY 26 Grant of $245,000 from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services and authorized the Mental Health Department to add a one full time equivalent case manager to the Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) and a full time equivalent clinician to the Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (MCOT), and authorized the reallocation and expenditure of Mental Health fund balance (reserves) for 2025 for $87,900.
The Board authorized a contract with Site Rite Construction Co. to construct the Blue River No. 28, Contract District 1 Sewer Main Extension Project in an amount not to exceed $3,046,422.00. The Blue River District is located southwest of Pflumm Road and 175th Street.    
See link for bid evaluation grid.   Briefing Sheet 25-22 updated 8-12-25.docx.docx

Action Agenda
3. This item was moved off the consent agenda onto the action agenda so Kelly could recuse himself. The Board approved an agreement with Spring Hill to improve 199th Street from Ridgeview Road to Renner Road with CARS Reserve and Federal Fund Exchange accounts, for $150,000. Brewer noted that sections of this road were assessed at moderate to high risk so she is glad to move forward with this. Passed, six in favor, one recusal.

6. As part of the updated 2020 Economic Development Incentive Policy for New Century AirCenter, the Board authorized the county to issue Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs), Series 2025, for $75,000,000 to finance the construction of an industrial facility at New Century, Kansas; and granted an ad valorem tax abatement on the constructed improvements for ten years starting at $0.46 a square foot and escalating at 2% annually thereafter; and entered into a payment in lieu of tax (PILOT) agreement; and certain other documents in connection with the issuance of the bonds.  Passed: Aye, 6. No, Ashcraft
Two public commenters complained about the IRB, asserting that “the airport brings in no income and nothing is happening there.” Allenbrand corrected that information, stating that there were 5,124 jobs at the airports with 500 more coming and $226,000,000 in annual income. And thanks to Senator Moran, $30,000,000 more. Brewer raised the point that the FAA and the county expect these airports to be self-sustaining. Lease and rail also provide the value-added factor, turning fallow land into economic growth. Hanzlik corrected one public commenter, noting that a 21 page performance agreement for this project is included in the materials.
   Performance Agreement - Yukon (Johnson Co.) FINAL.docx
Ashcraft claimed that this IRB undermines the financial support for the fire service so his vote will reflect that. Kelly stated that economic incentives allow for opportunities to add to the tax rolls and are therefore a support for the fire department and other services. In response to Brewer’s question, staff explained that the land has been vacant since 1967, available and marketed for development. Brewer said that she would like to better understand how the county markets land for development but that she supports the motion.
 
7. The board approved a contract with Denali Water Solutions, LLC, for Biosolids Land Application from Johnson County Wastewater facilities for $1,000,000 per year for a three-year contract period with the option to renew for an additional three-year period. One public commenter complained about “monopolistic pricing” in the bidding process. Meyers commented that the practice of spreading biosolids on farm land is declining nationally. Susan Pekarek denied that. Meyers asked that the county look at discontinuing the practice of putting “forever chemicals” on the farmland. He understands that the cost is probably too high now, but we may need to look at different solutions. Brewer agreed.
             Kelly asked about the cost of terminating the contract. Pekarek explained that they sign a three-year contract because the contractor has to provide storage for the times of year when they cannot apply the fertilizer on farms. For the benefit of the public commenter who complained about the bidding process, Brewer explained that the briefing sheet has a table with the scoring process. Robin Lyons, purchasing manager, explained the ranking process, which uses multiple evaluators.     
 Briefing Sheet 25-16 Updated 8-12-25.docx.docx

Manager's Memo
Review of Public Hearing on Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
--The hearing was held at the Olathe Conference Center to allow for greater attendance. Two hundred twenty residents attended; 47 people commented. Commenters expressed opposition to taxes, rising expenditures, impact of property taxes on homeowners with fixed incomes and other issues. Residents also commented on mental health services. Previously, five open houses were held on the budget, with 50 residents attending those. A budget guide link is available on the Johnson County website. https://www.jocogov.org/

County Economic Research Institute (CERI) Indicators – August 2025 Edition. The unemployment rate as of June 2025 is 3.7%, nearly the same as the previous five-year average.
 Indicator Memo 08-2025.pdf

NACO Achievement Award – “Leadership Empowers All People” The County received a NACO achievement award for the Leadership Empowers All People program, which provides leadership training for all employees in order to ensure the successful functioning of the county. This program is based on the Steven Covey Creating a Q2 Culture.  
8-21-24 NACo Award - Leadership Empowers All People (LEAP).pptx 

Commission Comments
Brewer described her visit to Sunflower House, a child advocacy organization, with Meyers this week. The townships in her districts have struggled with getting people to sign up for open positions.  

Allenbrand also commented on her work obtaining affordable housing. She thanks Van Trust for coming forward with developing this. 65% unincorporated land in the county, majority in 6th district, available for development, great opportunity to expand affordable housing.  4500 jobs available at Panasonic, needs for transportation, housing, get DOD to participate in clean-up on the Sunflower site. Last night’s Budget Meeting: —many of the items noted in public comments are not under county control. She decried the bullying of staff by some of the commenters

Meyers attended this week’s executive roundtable for the solid waste preview to discuss how to extend the life of landfills. He also mentioned the visit to Sunflower House, a child advocacy organization serving both Wyandotte and Johnson County. It’s doing a good job getting into school systems, educating teachers and staff on these needs.

Fast stated that Prairie Village has a pilot program for composting, which is a huge success. She also said that Sedgewick County had heated discussion on the unsupported expense of subsidizing the state for the Tag Office. Our residents need to be educated that many of our required state functions are not being fully funded by the state and that 80% of the fees go to the state. The “Negro Creek” planning committee met, and signs are going up on Mission Road and elsewhere. They are working on having a Black poet speak at the ribbon cutting.

Hanzlick met with Dr. Schumacher, the new superintendent of the Shawnee Mission School District, and discussed ways the county and the school district could work together on housing, mental health, childcare and other items. He had several innovative ideas. Hanzlick thanked Robin Symes and her team for all the work setting up the budget hearing. This month is the 90th anniversary of Social Security, the significant milestone in American economic security.

Kelly thanked residents for coming to the budget hearing last night. The county is a complex organization that provides many important services, and he appreciates all comments. He noted that the state must be held accountable for all functions and he would like to have a substantive conversation with the state about how we fund and tax services.

The board adjourned to an executive session.

August 14, 2025
 
After the call to order and the opening ceremonies, National Aviation Day was proclaimed, and it was noted that our county airports contribute $1.1 billion to the local economy, representing the county’s commitment to strategic growth.
 
Public Comments lasted about 10 minutes. Commenters remarked about the serious challenges constantly faced by the unhoused during the recent inclement weather and at all times. Persons complained about county spending, property taxes, and promoted Moms for Liberty’s demands that books be censored.
 
Consent Agenda
2. Two FTE positions for the Johnson County Community Developmental Disabilities Organization were approved, using increased funding from the contract with the Kansas Department on Aging and Disability Services. Commissioners authorized the reallocation and expenditure of fund balance (reserves) for FY 2025 for $325,000. The funding increase is expected to be maintained in future fiscal years.
 
3. An application for an accessory dwelling unit permit (ADUP) for an existing 948 sq. ft. home located at 36265 W. 151st Street was approved.
 
4. The Board approved the Johnson County Direct Patient Care and Client Contact Employee Immunization Program to replace the existing program.
 
At Ashcraft’s request, items 5, 6, 7, and 8 were removed from the consent agenda and placed on the action agenda.
 
Action Agenda
Commissioners unanimously approved the following:

5. Appointment of the Fourth District Commissioner's nominee, Dr. Michael A. Panethiere, Ph.D., P.E., to the Board of Code Review. 
             Ashcraft asked whether all the appointments were related to the reorganization of the boards and committees or whether they represented new appointees. He also requested that his appointees be moved to agenda review and inquired whether such placement is optional or required. The rules state “Shall,” not “may,” according to the briefing sheet, as Chairperson Kelly noted. Kelly and Brewer both mentioned that all of Ashcraft’s requested information has already been sent to each commissioner.
 
6. Declaration of a vacancy of the First District Commissioner’s appointee, and Appointment of the First District Commissioner’s nominee, Richard Hellman, MD, to the Johnson County Commission on Aging Advisory Board. 
Ashcraft repeated his question about replacement versus new appointment (asked and answered).
 
7. Appointments of the Third District Commissioner’s nominees, Scott Balentine, Dennis Bollin, and Fred Wingert, to the East Consolidated Zoning Board.  
Ashcraft repeated his question, which was asked and answered, and Brewer repeated the answer.
 
8. Appointments of the Sixth District Commissioner's nominee, Courtney Craig, and the Chair’s nominee, Jean Hughes, to the Johnson County Museum Advisory Council. 
Kelly preemptively answered Ashcraft’s question.
 
9. The Board approved a contract amendment to separate the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system provided by Welligent, for the Johnson County Community Developmental Disabilities Organization (CDDO) from JCDS direct service provision and authorizes the reallocation and expenditure of Developmental Supports Fund balance (reserves) for FY 2025 for $250,000 and delegated authority to the JCDS Governing Board to manage this contract within approved budget and policy parameters.  This was approved by JCDS.  To be consistent with the inevitable requirement to comply with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Federal Settings Final Rule, the CDDO is expected to separate from provider services to mitigate conflict of interest.
 
10. The Board approved the conditional award of HOME-ARP Rental Housing operating and capacity building funding of $2,686,777.26 to Metro Lutheran Ministry (MLM). They also authorized the reallocation and expenditure of General Fund balances (reserves) for FY 2025 in an amount not to exceed $2,686,778, and delegated authority to execute an agreement with MLM to the Director of Planning, Housing, and Community Development. The funds must benefit HOME-ARP Qualifying Populations (at-risk populations), including the homeless, those at risk of homelessness, and domestic violence survivors. These funds are one-time dollars through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.   
 
At least six public commenters from The Good Faith Network spoke in favor of the item. MLM was the only applicant for these funds and expresses willingness to work with partners and local builders.  Public speakers and commissioners urged the creation of a housing trust fund. 
 
After discussion by the Board, Brewer summarized commissioners’ concerns that dollars be spent within the timeline and that the county obtain alternatives if that proves not to be the case. She emphasized that our housing continuum is incomplete when we lack adequate shelter and transitional housing. Currently, 7,500 units of affordable housing are needed. This project will house 15 families.
 
United Community Services (UCS) is preparing to collaborate with United Way of Greater Kansas City to strengthen community-wide planning and decision-making, with a particular focus on homelessness. This sharing of data insights, trend analysis, and documentation will support evidence-based strategies and enhance the region’s capacity to address housing instability.  Data about resources and information about housing challenges in the county can be found here: https://ucsjoco.org/homelessness/
 
11. The Board approved a contract with Icon Structures, Inc., for the New Century Adult Detention Center Interior Improvements Project located at 27745 W. 159th Street, New Century, Kansas 66031, for $1,898,000. The renovation of Module 6B will accommodate virtual court hearings and associated functions, in the interest of safety and efficiency.  Ashcraft encouraged staff to avoid penalizing applicants for “minor” clerical errors when considering bids. 
 
12. The Board authorized a contract with Midwest Presentations Inc., to purchase audiovisual equipment and services for the Johnson County Commission Board and Control Room, for $434,708.58 per State of Kansas contract 57375. The current audiovisual system was installed in the hearing room in 2016. Most equipment is now beyond or nearing the end of its expected life (typically 4–7 years), with some components already failing and requiring temporary workarounds. Remote access to meetings is important for county residents. All processes and policies were followed in soliciting this bid.  
 
The Board adjourned to executive session to discuss personnel matters concerning the Board’s non-elected personnel.

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All Board members, as well as Julie Brewer, Liaison of the Board of County Commissioners were present.

The Library Master Plan was reviewed.  For Fall of 2025 the Walk and Read program will continue in some of the area parks.  The Writers’ Conference will be held in October.  

During the summer, story times were held in parks.  Outreach continues with mobile trucks providing services in Spring Hill and DeSoto as buildings are closed and renovations begin.  

The Website update is an ongoing process.  Patrons and staff were involved in making suggestions for the updates.  Some features presented on the website include: a video walk-through of the sites, a Writers” Conference Event page, a Book Groups page, World Cup Promotions, Translation options and more.

The library has partnered with K.C. Rep (which presented a performance at the library), the Institute of Civic Discourse and Democracy, Defensive Driving and Crucial Conversations.  All of these provided opportunities for the community to participate.  

The 2025 fundraiser Library Lets Loose will be held Saturday, September 20 , 6:30-10:00
at the Central Resource Library.  Its goal is to bring in $13,000 this year.  This event funds the Summer Reading Program which includes 67 schools. Through outreach, 8,940 books were distributed to children, 5,000 books were given to 13 community programs and in the library branches, 224,000 books were given to children. The Summer Reading Program also included author visits, visual arts, music, puppets, and baby art club.  For adults there were adult book discussions, ELL classes, dance lessons, and art classes.

The Executive Board met after the meeting to discuss a land purchase.  

To learn more, click here.

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Other than approval of a few projects and committee reports, the main portion of the meeting was a report from the Culture Champions, a group of 15 employees that are working on awareness, inclusion, and diversity issues. They have 3 areas of focus and here are some of the things they have been doing.

---Communication and Engagement

●    April -  neurodiversity month 
●    November -  Indigenous peoples month
●    Book Club where several employees read and discussed Disability Visibility
●    Produce a monthly calendar of diverse holidays/celebrations/events

----Community and Outreach

●     Summer Food Drive
●     Water One represented at Juneteenth Celebration at Prairie Fire with the Water Buggy on hand to provide water for folks
●      Sponsored 3 students through a mentorship/ summer internship program

---Policy and Guidance

●      Review of policies and documents to promote inclusive language aligned with their culture and values
●      Contributing to key subcommittees at Water One (i.e. sustainability, campus improvement)
         
September 13 at the JOCO Arts and Heritage Museum, Water one teamed up with JOCO Wastewater and JOCO Stormwater management for a table to augment the current special exhibit, Ripples: Water, Community, and You.

Water One also garnered another award, this one from 3CMA (City-County Communications and Marketing Association) for their Smart Watering Campaign. This campaign has continued and increased success in changing lawn watering habits in the targeted areas.

Stay hydrated!

To learn more, click here.

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All Board members were present.  The livestream taping had sound issues so I was only able to view the first hour, which consisted of a lengthy discussion by the Board of a proposed motion to Exceed the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate. Prior to this exchange, a public hearing on this issue had been held. In addition 3 community members spoke at the evening’s Public Forum about their concerns on the proposal. The Board voted to approve by a vote of 6-1. The Board then completed a hearing on the proposed 2025-26 budget.

To learn more, click here.

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The first order of business was to adopt a resolution to exceed the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate, since there were no comments, the resolution passed unanimously.

Next the board had a budget hearing.  Again, there were no comments and later in the meeting they passed the budget.

The school board has been maintaining a clothing exchange for students who cannot afford new clothes.  Most of these clothes are gently-used and donated to the exchange.

The benefits manager for the district reported that the medical plan expenses are up 10% and the prescription drug costs are up by 8%.  There was no change in the dental, vision, life insurance or short-term disability plans.  The plan has been renewed for 2026, and the district will continue to contribute $982/month for each employee.

The board then approved adoption of a Local Option Budget percentage of 33 percent and a contract with Delta Innovative Services, Inc. for emergency roof repairs at Horizons High School.

To learn more, click here.

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Mayor Skoog brought the Council meeting to order with two members absent. During the brief 12 minute meeting, the Consent Agenda was approved. A consent agenda brings together several agenda items that are usually routine and do not require further discussion. The Council can approve the Consent Agenda with one vote, instead of voting on each item. To view the Consent Agenda approved on August 18:

https://opkansas.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=9412

On behalf of the Overland Park Legacy of Greenery Committee, Mayor Skoog presented the 2025 Canopy Street of Excellence Award to Delmar, from 95th Street to El Monte Street. For more information on the Legacy of Greenery Committee, see:

https://www.opkansas.org/city-government/boards-commissions/legacy-of-greenery-committee/

For more information on the Canopy Street of Excellence Annual Award (begun in OP in 2021) and the criteria for the award, see:

https://www.opkansas.org/city-services/trees-environment/forestry/

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Mayor Skoog brought the meeting to order with all Council Members present. The four hour meeting included the Public Comments section, with 21 Overland Park residents participating. Each speaker was given 3 minutes for comments addressed to the Council. 

The Council held a public hearing on Resolution No. 5058, "Intent to Exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate in the 2026 Budget." The resolution passed with one dissenting vote. ( Note: the property tax rate for OP residents will remain "flat" at 14.5 mills, as in previous years.  A 14.5 mill levy indicates a property tax rate of $14.50 for every $1000.00 of a property's assessed value) To Exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate indicates that the additional revenue will be gained from increased property values and new construction. 

The Council also Approved the adoption of the 2026 Operating Budget, 2026 Strategic Goals, 2026-2030 Capital Improvements Program and 2026-2030 Maintenance Program, after a detailed presentation by City Manager Lori Curtis Luther. The city's 2026 approved budget reflects a 6.6 percent increase over the 2025 budget. 

More details on the 2026 budget can be found here:  https://www.opkansas.org/newsroom/city-council-approves-2026-budget/

For the agenda, minutes, and a video of the meeting including Public Comments:  https://opkansas.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=9413 

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The Council met in person at 6:00 p.m., with public viewing in person or via livestream. All members were present. Public comments went for 20 minutes.

Police Chief McCullogh made a Lifesaving award presentation to two PV police officers who had saved the life of a man suffering cardiac arrest. City Administrator Wes Jordan (himself a former PV police chief) was reappointed to his post for four additional years by request of the Mayor and unanimous vote of the Council. 

Council voted unanimously to expand the food composting pilot program. In only two months, the usage has far outstripped the initial capacity, so additional bins were authorized. If the pilot is successful,  the Council could vote to include food composting in the regular waste management services provided by the City in a future budget. 

Other city business was conducted, and the Council went into executive session at 7:30 p.m., with adjournment immediately following.

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The Council met in person at 6:00 p.m., with public viewing in person or via livestream. Ms. Sharp and Mr. Agniel were absent at roll call; all other members were present, Ms. Selders via Zoom. Ms. Sharp joined by Zoom during public comments. Public comments went for 40 minutes, with another 10 minutes for answering comments by council members to correct several misstatements.

Council held a public hearing regarding the city’s budget for next year exceeding the revenue-neutral rate. Two residents spoke. Passed 8 to 2. Sharp and Reddell voted against.

Council held a public hearing to adopt the 2026 budget. No residents spoke. After extended discussion, the budget passed 8 to 2.  Sharp and Reddell voted against. At this point, Ms Selders and Ms Sharp left the meeting.

Other city business was conducted, and the Council adjourned at 9 pm.

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