Johnson County Board of County Commissioners
Observers: Rebecca James, Joan Gilson, Lee Rowe
Feb. 15 through March 7, 2024 (most recent listed first)
A broadcast is available at Http://boccmeetings.jocogov.org and on YouTube. Public comments during the beginning of the meeting or for a specific agenda item can now be made in person, virtually or in writing. For more information, meeting videos, documents and agendas, go to BOCC meetings
March 7, 2024
Chairperson Kelly proclaimed Women in Construction Week and Purchasing Month. Public Comments lasted about 15 minutes.
Commissioners approved the following appointments:
--Brian J Walker – Sixth District Representative to the Fire District No. 1 Governing Board through July 1, 2024
--Haile Sims – Chairman Representative to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coalition through October 31, 2025
--Alleen VanBebber – Chairman Representative to the Criminal Justice Advisory Council through October 2, 2024
Commissioners authorized an exception to competition to purchase certain vaccines manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur (Sanofi) under the County Health Department’s membership with Atlantic Health Partners.
After a public hearing, the Board agreed to add adjoining land to the Edgerton Cemetery District, a Historical site, which contains pre-Civil War graves.
In an item remanded from Dec. 14, 2023 BOCC meeting and after hearing from public commenters who objected, the Board approved a preliminary development plan for a soccer complex on 54.4 acres at 20305 Metcalf Avenue. Similarly sized developments and facilities using holding tanks are already located in the area, which was previously zoned as industrial. Commissioner O’Hara objected, raising her voice and rejecting the Chair’s offer to meet for further discussions, terming the development “community rape,” and “the result of bankers and law firms running the County.”
The County Juvenile Detention Center has partnered with the Olathe Lowrider Leadership Bike Club, which offers mentoring and the opportunity to upgrade “envy-worthy” bikes, drawing on lowrider culture.
The Performance Audit noted that the County followed policies and procedures for exceptions to competition based on a random sample of transactions.
The MARC Report provided an economic forecast for the Kansas City area. The area avoided a recession, but the workforce is the major constraint on economic growth. Without foreign-born workers, the US labor force would not have grown beyond pre-pandemic levels. Labor shortages will continue to put upward pressure on wages, which will make the Fed cautious about lowering interest rates. To pay for higher wages and to increase economic growth, investment to raise the productivity of the current workforce will be most important. This is also key to improving the value of the area’s production and its ability to expand into new markets with innovative products and services that command a premium. That requires innovation, which in turn depends on capital – human, physical (space, buildings), financial – and how we invest it. Chairperson Kelly noted the need for immigration reform in light of the growth needs for a robust local economy.
CERI Report Summary:
--Johnson County’s Gross Domestic Product leads both the state and the KC metro area.
--Despite elevated interest rates, job creation remains resilient.
--The labor market remains tight, accelerating wage growth.
--Elevated mortgage interest rates have dampened demand for single-family homes, softening home-price appreciation somewhat.
--Record industrial real estate development occurred during 2023 and is expected
to remain an area of strength.
--After two years of record consumer spending growth in 2021 and 2022, taxable
retail sales growth slowed to near historic averages in 2023.
Legislative Update:
--The Elections bill banning any ballot drop box and other measures failed.
-- Rep. Trevor Jacobs (R-Fort Scott) was removed from the House Federal & State Affairs Committee after he voted to sustain Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto of the GOP’s single-rate tax bill. Representative Jacobs noted that the bill was bad for a number of his middle class constituents.
--The House Committee on Financial Institutions & Pensions held an informational hearing on housing issues this past week. The following needs were noted: More middle-income housing; more diverse housing stock to match local demographic and employee needs; extending housing security by preserving and reinvesting in older units; and increasing reinvestment in older housing stock, including vacant units.
Feb. 29, 2024
Public comments lasted about 20 minutes.
The Board approved a seven-party agreement with Douglas County, the Kansas Department of Transportation, Olathe, Gardner, Edgerton, De Soto and Johnson County to fund and participate in the Southwest Metro Area Transportation Connection Plan. The purpose of this agreement is to study the finance and scope overview of the Plan. When the Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant was opened in 1941, arterial roads were stopped at the Plant boundary. Current major developments in the area, including the Astra Enterprise Park, will require roads, and this study will contribute to recommendations about reconnecting those roads and assessing transportation viability. Several public commenters complained about MARC and China, alerted by Commissioner O’Hara to be at the meeting. Commissioner Hanzlick offered a correction to public comments, explaining that the governing board of MARC consists entirely of elected, accountable officials. Commissioner Allenbrand corrected several of Commissioner O’Hara’s misstatements.
After a public hearing, the Board approved planned annual funds for the Johnson County Wastewater Integrated Plan Program (to comply with the EPA and the Clean Water Act) for $3,606,000, for a total program authorization amount of $15,623,000, and approved a contract amendment for $3,606,000 with HDR Engineering for $15,314,000. The Board awarded the wastewater improvement project to HDR in 2020 after a request for bids.
Commissioners authorized a contract with Optiv to enhance county cybersecurity tools for $1,177,740 for a three-year agreement. Data breaches and ransomware attacks have increased significantly; it usually takes 207 days to detect and an additional 70 days to contain a data breach. County technology teams constantly address security threats, underscoring the critical need for enhanced security measures.
The Board approved adding a Finance and Administrative Manager for the Election Office for $95,000. The addition of a Finance and Administrative Manager will decrease the Election Office’s reliance on central services departments to guide it through routine county policy and procedure functions. The Finance and Administrative Manager would focus on compliance with County Policies and Procedures, budget work and facilities management, allowing the Election Commissioner and other key staff to focus on elections.
Reports and Communications
The February County Economic Research Institute (CERI) Indicators provided the following information:
--The Unemployment rate for December 2023 was 1.8%
--The total value of construction contracts year-to-date through Dec. 2023 was $6,524,633,000
--Office construction is slowing down, and discussions are in process for converting two structures into apartments.
The ribbon-cutting for the Lenexa MED-ACT Station was held on Feb. 28.
The PowerPoint for the 2024 Revaluation Results about changes in County revaluations should be available on the County website, http://boccmeetings.jocogov.org/. Ninety percent of all appeals were filed online through the new portal.
Legislative Update
--House Bill 2792, Prohibiting Gender Transition on Minors is currently in committee, and Chairperson Beverly Gossage is opposed to this vital medical care. Several pediatricians and LGBTQ rights representatives are testifying against the bill, which will impact both human rights and the state economy in terms of brain drain and lost corporations and businesses.
--Rep. Owen Donahoe (R-Shawnee) resigned his seat on Tuesday, effective March 13, following his vote in favor of overriding the Governor’s veto of the flat tax plan.
--The open meetings’ fees bill is dead.
Feb. 22, 2024
Chairperson Kelly announced the proclamation of February, 2024 as Black History Month in Johnson County and Kim Randolph, CEO of Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce, spoke in honor of the occasion. The County is a member of this organization. Public Comments lasted about 20 minutes.
Students from Shawnee Mission West were present.
Commissioners approved two mental health measures:
--Acceptance of a $1,480,750 grant from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) to establish a Youth Crisis Stabilization Center and to hire 14.6 full time equivalent employees to address the growing public health crisis for youth mental health. Linda Seiner, member of the Good Faith Network, commented that they fully support accepting this grant as an important support for the continuum of care. Youth do not have to be justice-involved to receive these services.
--Acceptance of grant for $643,567 from KDADS for the addition of 6.0 FTE positions to provide homeless outreach services. Hannah Jeffrey of the Good Faith Network spoke in favor of this item, which will be a key element in attaining zero functional homelessness in the County. One public commenter objected, arguing for temporary shelters. Tim DeWeese, Director of County Mental Health Services, reminded Commissioners and the public that these funds are for mental health workers, not a facility.
The new Property Value Appeals Portal is at Property Value Appeals | Johnson County Kansas. This service is now available for every property type, and documents can be uploaded here.
Legislative Update: The override vote on the Flat Tax veto failed, perhaps clearing the way for a tax plan with bipartisan support.
Senate Bill 457, sponsored by the Farm Bureau, would amend current law pertaining to public utilities and solar powered generation equipment, and would prohibit a public utility from exercising eminent domain for the placement of solar powered electric generation equipment, including panels.
Senate Bill 391 is up for a vote today; it eliminates quarantines and removes authority from public health officers, making it harder to contain the spread of infectious diseases.
Additional funding for airports, Area Agencies on Aging, and World Cup support is also being considered.
Feb. 15, 2024
Chairperson Kelly asked for a moment of silence for Marine Lance Corporal Donovan Davis, killed in a helicopter crash, and for Lisa Lopez-Galvan, killed at the Superbowl Rally on Feb. 14, 2024. Lopez-Galvan was the host of “Taste of Tejano” on KKFI and a married mother of two who lived in Shawnee. She once served as the court clerk of Roeland Park.
Kelly noted that “The problem is guns . . .. Most Americans believe in common sense gun reform.” Deputy County Manager Julie Karins provided an update on the County response to yesterday’s shooting. The County provided bus service for fleeing people, med-act transported multiple individuals to hospitals, the Sheriff’s deputies were on hand, and Emergency Services were on alert.
Public comments lasted about ten minutes.
Sheriff’s Department – The Board authorized an exception to competition to add mental health services by VitalCore Health Strategies for inmate and offender medical, mental health, and prescription services for $27,845,315. In response to Commissioners’ concerns, metrics for effectiveness will be implemented and the Sheriff’s department will continue to partner with Johnson County Mental Health.
--One member of the public stated that stewardship of public expenditures should include discussion of the management of the Sheriff’s office.
--Commissioner Allenbrand noted her reservations, stating that the County has a process for issuing a request for proposals, but the Sheriff has the authority here.
--Commissioner Fast stated that the historical performance of for-profit mental health services has been poor, that the national best practice is to use public services. She added that we are paying VitalCore more than our own Mental Health Department, continuity of care is a concern, and additional staff and more expense will be required.
--Chairperson Kelly noted that the cost-savings are unclear, and that lack of satisfaction in mental health services, forced medication (which requires a court order) both raise legal concerns. A representative stated that forced medication in the case of harm to self or others is legal but very rare.
--Commissioner Hanzlick thanked VitalCore for the information, but she concurred with Commissioner Fast that the Mental Health Center has provided good service and she is unable to support the motion.
--Commissioner O’Hara stated that this decision is correctly under the authority of the Sheriff.
Vote: Yes-Meyers, O’Hara, Ashcraft, Allenbrand, Kelly
No-Fast, Hanzlick
Commissioners also approved the following items:
--The allocation of Opioid Settlement Funds from the Kansas Municipalities Fights Addiction Fund to treat, combat and educate the community about the opioid epidemic. Mail scanners for added security will be purchased.
---Design and site selection services with Burns and McDonnell for a new air traffic control tower at New Century AirCenter to replace the 80-year-0ld structure for $298,197.70.
The County has been working with the Civic Leadership Academy at Olathe East High School.
The Tomahawk Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility is one of 20 national winners of the Engineering News Record National Best Project award for Water and Environment.
Johnson County appears on Forbes Magazine’s list of America’s Best Midsize Employers, 2024.
The Legislative update noted the following items:
--Republican Attorney General Kris Kobach testified in support of SB 446, which would prohibit ownership of real estate of three acres or more by any person subject to the jurisdiction of foreign governments
--SB 391 changes the authority of the Secretary of Health and Environment to a supervisory role to only recommend rather than actually implement action to prevent the introduction and spread of
infectious diseases within the state.
--A clean bill on a tax exemption on homestead property is in process.
Commissioner Fast met with the new Mayor of Leawood about “Negro Creek”. Commissioner O’Hara offered her prayers after the gun violence yesterday. Commissioner Hanzlick thanked the Chairperson for his comments on yesterday’s events. She also noted that the Area Agency on Aging will hold an event on helping older adults avoid scams.
The update on the Kuhlman Property (164th Street and Mission Road,) a site containing hazardous waste, noted the following issues: floodplain location, unfenced, the EPA has signed off to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, contaminants are still present, and the KDHE will abate contaminants.
Johnson County Library Board
March 14, 2024, 4:00 PM
Central Resource Library, 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212
Observer: Jodi Dinkins
All board members were present.
Fred Logan, Board counsel, reported that free speech on social media platforms can be limited based on a Supreme Court case which allows a librarian to remove speech if it violates library policy. (Board policy is posted online.)
Jenee’ Hanzlick, Johnson County Commissioner, is completing her 5-year liaison position with the library and will be followed by Commissioner Shirley Allenbrand.
Other reports included updates/renovations on Corinth, De Soto, Spring Hill and Central Resource libraries, as well as the sale of the Lackman building and the opening of the Merriam Plaza Library.
To learn more, click here.
Blue Valley School Board
March 4, 2024
Observer: Ann Schuster
Following a 30-minute untelevised public comment section, the Board meeting began at 6:00 p.m. with viewing in person at the district office and via YouTube.
Board members reported on their activities in the past month including their presence at various BV elementary, middle and high school events, a Johnson County Suicide Prevention Coalition meeting, a legislative coffee, a mental health training program and a recent Community Connection meeting. Some of the community concerns continue to be overcrowding issues at Valley Park Elementary and busing. Superintendent Tonya Merrigan gave updates on staff and student achievements and the recognition of School Bus Driver Appreciation Day, Read Across America Day, School Social Worker Week and Music in Our Schools Month-the latter being highlighted by an award presented to Dr. Merrigan as Kansas Music Education Association Administrator of the Year.
After the Board agenda was approved, a legislative update was given by Blue Valley contracted lobbyist Patty Markley regarding bills that relate to BV legislative positions (these positions are posted on the District’s website). Bills that were “blessed” for further advancement were those addressing alternative teacher certification, KPERS level adjustments, school funding calculations, district accreditations, and a new task force and possible formula for SPED funding. Hearings before the session ends will focus on school vouchers/ tax credits and a plan for obtaining additional school bus drivers. This session will likely be a short one as all legislative seats are up for election and lawmakers will be eager to campaign. As yet unresolved is tax relief for Kansans and Gov. Kelly may call senators and representatives back for deliberation on this issue. Ms. Markley noted that there are concerns with the budget process, accreditation and SPED funding bills which are not in accord with District positions.
A presentation by the English as a Second Language department was then made, relating that 985 BV students (approximately 4.5% of the total student population) are assisted in some way by this department. One hundred ten different languages are spoken in student homes, and students speaking 55 of those languages are directly served by ESL teachers and paras. The Kansas English Language Proficiency Assessment (KELPA) is the measure used to determine placement in the program and Individual Language Programs are developed for participating students. There is also a texting program (Talking Points) which allows back and forth communication with teachers and parents in their own primary language.
A further presentation was given by the District’s Mental Health “Flight Team” which supports Building Crisis teams during emergency situations. Their focus is assisting schools in a return to calm educational environments for all students involved.
Two Board appointments to liaison positions with the Kansas Association of School Boards were then approved and the meeting was adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
To learn more, click here.
Prairie Village City Council
Feb. 20, 2024
Observer: Eileen Marshall
The Council met in person at 6:00 p.m., with public viewing in person or via livestream. One member was absent. Your observer missed public comments, because video began at about 6:25, due to technical difficulties.
Council discussed the updated code of ethics, which has been discussed several times previous and reviewed by the current and the past city attorney. The revised code was approved 10 to 1, with Lori Sharp voting against.
Council discussed a proposed resolution to clarify the intent to put the community center issue to a public vote. Discussion centered around (1) whether the wording of the proposed resolution would require a public vote even if the council decided NOT to move ahead with the project, and (2) whether the resolution was needed, given that the council has publicly stated multiple times that the issue would be voted on by the citizens. The resolution passed 6-5.
Other city business was also conducted, including a presentation of the budget calendar for the 24-25 budget.
March 4, 2024
Observer: Eileen Marshall
The Council met in person at 6:00 p.m., with public viewing in person or via livestream. Two members were absent, and another attended via Zoom, but a quorum was present. Public comments lasted about 6 minutes.
Councilmember Lauren Wolf is moving out of the city and announced that this is her last council meeting. There is a process for appointing a new councilperson with approval from the Mayor and the remaining members, and it starts with taking applications from interested parties. Nothing to report yet.
The planning commission will meet this week to work on possible changes to development regulations in areas zoned commercial and mixed-use. This could include allowing residences to be located in these areas. To be clear, no changes are being made to areas already zoned residential.
The new city hall project is moving into the schematic design phase. The first public engagement opportunity is set for March 26 at City Hall.
HOW IS THE COUNCIL WORKING TOGETHER? As a first step in council involvement in the 2025 budget process, Finance Director Jason Hannaman presented the goals and objectives for the budget. They are: (1) maintain high quality services and programs, (2) maintain quality streets, parks and infrastructure, (3) continue strong financial condition, and (4) maintain financial transparency and citizen participation in budget issues. When asked to affirm the goals, two members voted NO. It is unclear why.
The council adjourned around 7:50 p.m.
To learn more, click here.
Water One Board
March 12, 2024, 7:00 p.m.
Observer: Annette Becker
There are ongoing campus improvements and a presentation by Burns McDonnell showing progress to date. The new construction info is being submitted to LEED and they are pretty certain the new building will be LEED certified.
WaterOne is introducing a new community engagement program in the Spring of 2024 called the Water Academy. The Water Academy is an exciting opportunity for interested customers to learn more about Water One operations. In four immersive sessions featuring in-person presentations, facility tours, and observation of our governmental functions, participants will receive an exclusive inside look at how our water utility is run.The program is FREE and admission into the first class of program participants will be reserved for friends and family members of WaterOne employees and Governing Board members.
Until next time, stay hydrated! To learn more, click here.