Vol. 1, Issue 2                                                                                  April 2017
Commission Attends Wind Farm Opening
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.  
Remote Collection Results
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. 
County Names Excellence in Public Service Award Winner
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. 
Proclamation Recognizes Public Health Award Recipient
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.  
Burn Ban in Sedgwick County
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).
Around the County
Commissioners attended an event for the 150th Chisholm Trail Anniversary. 

Commissioners attended an event at WSU where Governor Sam Brownback signed a bill into law for the WSU/ WATC affiliation. 
Contact  Commissioner Michael O'Donnell, II : 
316-660-9300
Michael.O'Donnell@sedgwick.gov
525 N. Main, Ste 320, Wichita, KS 67203
Contact Public Information Officer:
Kate Flavin, 316-660-9370
communications@sedgwick.gov
525 N. Main, Ste 343, Wichita, KS 67203

Contact Corporate Communications Manager:
Keturah Austin, 316-660-9370
communications@sedgwick.gov
525 N. Main, Ste 343, Wichita, KS 67203