February 2023
A Note from Commissioner Dennis
This is a very busy time of the year for the County Commission. The legislature is in session and we have numerous bills that are being considered that impact county government and our citizens. We have also started the annual budget process for 2024. There are many great things happening throughout Sedgwick County that we have been deeply involved with.

I have made several trips to Topeka to speak with our legislators regarding issues that we have placed on the County’s legislative agenda. In addition, there have been numerous bills introduced that would have a significant impact on both the County and our citizens. This is our state legislative agenda that we are working on. If you have questions on these items, please let us know.
Besides working legislative issues, the County Commissioners attended the Wichita Chamber Chair luncheon, plus the delivery of the 100th KC-46 front section at Spirit AeroSystems. The community has started planning for the annual Veteran’s Day Parade, and we attended a Crime Commission meeting where Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan was the speaker. Commissioners worked with our economic development partners and Integra Technologies to bring over 2,000 new, high-paying jobs to Sedgwick County. We also worked many zoning issues.

I want to highlight one important notice that is listed below. By the time you read this newsletter, the appraisal notices will have been mailed out from the County. If you disagree with the market value of your property, take the time to turn the appraisal notice over and protest. This is your right as citizens. 

Also listed below is a notice that we need you to serve on several advisory boards that we have openings on. If you are interested in serving on one of the boards, please visit the Sedgwick County web site at www.sedgwickcounty.org. The positions I need filled immediately include Aging, Animal Control, Nuisance Abatement Appeals, and Solid Waste. 

As always, it is an honor to serve District 3 and all of Sedgwick County. Do not hesitate to contact me if there are issues you need to have addressed.  
The views expressed by Commissioner David Dennis in this newsletter do not necessarily represent the governing body of the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners or Sedgwick County Government.
Public Works projects in progress:
Bridge on 21st N. between 375th & 391st W.
  • Closed to through traffic
  • Expected completion in June

Bridge on 199th W. Between 4th & 13th N.
  • Closed to through traffic
  • Expected completion in May

Bridge on 183rd W. between 45th & 53rd N.
  • Closed to through traffic
  • Expected completion by late April to mid-May
Property Valuation Notices Mailed in March
In March, property owners will receive their valuation notices in the mail. Sedgwick County Appraiser, Mark Clark, presented his annual report to the BoCC last week and explained why overall valuations increased. Click here to see that presentation. You can also watch the video below to learn how to appeal your appraisal, if you believe the amount is incorrect.
Sedgwick County commemorates Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, several Sedgwick County employees shared their life experiences on social media and in a video presentation to the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC). Commissioners also heard from the Executive Director of The Kansas African American Museum, Denise Sherman, about upcoming events at TKAM and future plans for expansion.
Emergency Management launches Civic Ready Alerts
Sedgwick County Emergency Management (SCEM) rolled out the first phase of a free service called Civic Ready Alerts. This notifies residents by phone or email of emergencies or important news in their community.

Initially, the public can sign up for notifications from only two test cities – Wichita and Mt. Hope, but eventually a dozen more cities across Sedgwick County are expected to participate.

Click https://buff.ly/3XmNXya to opt-in, customize how you want to be contacted and which notifications you want to receive!
Ribbon-Cutting Planned for Thunderbolt Sirens
Four of the world’s oldest Thunderbolt sirens still in service are right here in Sedgwick County and will go on permanent display, starting Saturday, March 4, 2023. A ribbon-cutting event at 10 a.m. will showcase one of the historic outdoor warning devices that is 70 years old, at Sedgwick County Fire Station (SCFD) 32, 7750 N. Wyandotte Way, Park City. The other three Thunderbolt sirens will be on display at SCFD Station 38, Wichita Fire Station 20 and on a traveling exhibit used by Sedgwick County Emergency Management (SCEM).
Sedgwick County needs YOU on an advisory board or committee!
The Board of County Commissioners values input from its citizens and encourages you to consider serving on an advisory board or committee in one of the five districts. To see a list of current vacancies, click here.
Out and About with Commissioners
Congratulations Integra Technologies Inc., the largest U.S. Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) company, on the announcement of its new combined headquarters and production facility in Bel Aire and training facility in Wichita. We are thrilled you have chosen to stay in Kansas and selected Sedgwick County to continue growing!
Spirit AeroSystems achieved quite a milestone as it marked the 100th delivery to Boeing of the forward fuselage for the KC-46 Pegasus. The air refueling tanker is built for the Air Force and is flown at McConnell Air Force Base.
In Topeka, the South-Central Legislative Delegation had an opportunity to meet with Commissioners. During the luncheon, they discussed our legislative platform and current bills in progress.
Contact Commissioner David Dennis
316-660-9300
100 N. Broadway, Ste. 660, Wichita, KS 67202