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Vol. 2, Issue 4 April 2017
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Hello Everyone,
I am happy you are interested in receiving this newsletter and keeping track of some of the activities of County government. I am happy to report that we have come to agreement on the Zoo funding agreement. And we are making good progress on finding a new Director to replace the retired Mark Reed.
Recently I attended the Central Plains Quad County Planning Forum (CPQCPF) in Hutchinson with Commissioner Dennis, Commissioner Howell and Manager Scholes. This is a voluntary meeting of Commissioners and staff from Butler, Harvey, Reno and Sedgwick Counties. We have no agenda and no authority but it is a good opportunity to solidify friendships and hear about challenges in our adjacent counties.
As you may know, I participate as the County Representative to the Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit (EMCU) along with the Mayor of Wichita and representatives from law enforcement, the Child Advocacy Center and the State Department of Children’s Services. Although it is depressing to know that we need this agency in our community, it is encouraging to know that a professional response is at work to defend the victims and prosecute the perpetrators.
Honors Night on April 11, was a wonderful annual event to honor citizens and companies in our area who have contributed significantly to the quality of life and the economy we all enjoy. Congratulations to all the honorees.
Contact me if I can be of any help regarding County issues.
Dave
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Commission Attends Wind Farm Opening
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On Wednesday, April 5, commissioners attended an event commissioning a new wind farm in western Kansas. These energy projects, Kingman and Ninnescah Wind Energy Centers, are expected to operate for 30 years and provide energy to the region. Combined, the two projects will generate 400 megawatts from 241 wind turbines. Representatives from NextEra Energy Resources, Westar Energy, and Midwest Energy spoke at the event in support of the projects.
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Remote Collection Results
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Sedgwick County Household Hazardous Waste hosted a remote collection site for residents to safely dispose of material Saturday, April 1, in Valley Center. This free event collected 31,345 lbs. of hazardous waste!
Residents may dispose of paint, aerosols, batteries, used motor fluids, lawn and garden chemicals, household cleaners, and more at these events. More remote collection events can be expected as the year continues. Or, instead of waiting for the next event, residents may dispose of old chemicals and household hazardous waste free of charge at the Household Hazardous Waste facility at 801 Stillwell. The facility is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.
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County Names Excellence in Public Service Award Winner
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Each year the DeVore Foundation supports individuals from USD 259, Sedgwick County, and City of Wichita who display a strong work ethic, exceptional performance, and a commitment to the community.
This year’s winner is Marilyn Cook, COMCARE’s Executive Director. Cook has been with Sedgwick County since 1993. She serves on a variety of boards including Sedgwick County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) and Community Crisis Center Advisory group. Cook is a member of the Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas and a strong advocate for mental health services.
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Proclamation Recognizes Public Health Award Recipient
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This year, National Public Health Week was recognized April 3 through April 9. Public health professionals work daily to influence change and promote health education and information. During Public Health Week a community member is recognized for his or her service with the Doren Fredrickson Lifetime Commitment to Public Health Award.
Shirley Orr, president, SOCO Consulting, was honored with the award at a reception on April 7 for her service to the community and public health advocacy.
Dr. Fredrickson served as a Sedgwick County Health Department Health Officer from 2002 to 2008. After his passing, the Doren Fredrickson Lifetime Commitment to Public Health Award was developed to commemorate his dedication and service.
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Burn Ban in Sedgwick County
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A burn ban imposed by the state of Kansas will be in effect during the month of April. New open burn permits will not be issued during the month of April and no current permit holders will be allowed to conduct open burns until May 1, 2017. Remember to always dial 9-1-1 before you burn.
The ban includes all open burning of any waste, including vegetation and wood waste, structures, or other material on any premises. Exceptions to the open burn ban include pasture, crop, range and wildlife or watershed management. The allowed burning operations will still require a valid permit from Sedgwick County Fire District 1. Burn permits may be requested online at
www.sedgwickcounty.org or by calling the Sedgwick County Fire Marshal (316-660-3473).
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Commissioners attended an event at WSU where Governor Sam Brownback signed a bill into law for the WSU/ WATC affiliation.
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Contact Public Information Officer:
Kate Flavin, 316-660-9370
525 N. Main, Ste 343, Wichita, KS 67203
Contact Corporate Communications Manager:
Keturah Austin, 316-660-9370
525 N. Main, Ste 343, Wichita, KS 67203
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Connect with Sedgwick County
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