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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/.

October 2, 2025

Consent Agenda approved by a vote of 7 - 0.

Items 3 and 4 were moved to Action Agenda at the request of Ashcraft. 

1. The September 4, 2025, business session minutes approved by vote of 7 - 0.

2. Resolution No. 122-25. Application Nos. E 25-510-CUP, E 25-511-PDP & E 25-512-FDP. Consider a request from David Eskov, Eskov Architecture, applicant on behalf of Woody Palmer, Stillwell Land Holdings, landowner for a Revised Preliminary and Final Development Plan for personal storage business and Conditional Use Permit for an outdoor storage yard for a term of 10 years at Storage Haul, located at 7225 W 207th Street, on 6.37 acres and zoned PEC-3 (Planned Light Industrial Park) District. 7-0

Action Agenda

3. Approved Resolution No. 129-25 appointing the First District Commissioner’s nominee, Scott Hazelitt, and Sixth District Commissioner’s nominee, Jack Poole, to the Board of Code Review, by a vote of 7-0, after an asked & answered question by Ashcraft about whether these were new appointments.

4. Approved Resolution No. 130-25 appointing the Sixth District Commissioner’s nominee, Anne Timmons, to the Community Corrections Advisory Board, by a vote of 7-0, after it was ascertained that Ms. Timmons had previously served on the Board.

5. Approved and adopted Resolution No. 119-25 authorizing the offering for sale of approximately $60,310,000 principal amount of General Obligation Internal Improvement Bonds, Series 2025A Bonds of JOCO KS, by a vote of 7-0, after confirming that these funds do not come out of General Funds.

6. Authorized a contract amendment with Lincoln Financial Group (LFG) to add FMLA Leave Administration services for $110,000 annually, resulting in a revised total annual contract authority not to exceed $394,365 per RFP 2024-009 by a vote of 7-0.  A public commenter objected to outsourcing FMLA due to rampant misuse, per the commenter.  Hanzlick stated that the current best practice (per SHRM) for large organizations is to outsource these services due to the increasing complexity of regulations and legal issues.  Ashcraft asked about KPIs, and staff explained that, in addition to monitoring the number of requests, they will be noting the seamlessness of the employee's return to work, which is the ultimate goal. Kelly spoke to the importance of creating a rewarding work environment.

7. Authorized a contract authority increase for the term and supply contracts with multiple suppliers for furniture purchases of $4,080,000 for a revised aggregate authority amount not to exceed $7,080,000 for the third yearly renewal option term through November 14, 2026, per Invitation to Bid (IFB) 2022-063, by a vote of 6-1, with Ashcraft voting no.  A public commenter complained about a lack of information about the exact line item to be used and whether usable furniture is being replaced.  Ashcraft referred to the building of the courthouse and asked whether the staff researched deeper discounting, and the staff said that they were able to receive multi-tiered discounts due to the term & supply contracts.  Brewer reiterated her understanding that a robust pre-design discussion had taken place among departments to be housed in the Health Services Building.  Hanzlick and Fast emphasized the importance of ensuring that all furniture purchases are durable enough to withstand the demands of long-term, high-use environments.  

The Manager's Memo included information about:

--Cybersecurity Awareness Month   2050-10-03 BOCC CAM Slides.pptx

The slide presentation included tips on passwords, multi-factor identification, reporting scams, and keeping software (security patches) updated.

--Hispanic Heritage Month events are occurring at the Library, JCPRD, and other county locations.  Refer to the JOCO home page for a calendar of events.  Homepage | Johnson County Kansas

Government shutdown information will be shared as it is available.  

Sitting as the Board of the Public Buildings Commission (PBC), the Board approved the following by a vote of 7-0.

1. August 7, 2025, Special Public Building Commission business session minutes.

2. Approved and adopted Resolution No. PBC 002-25 authorizing the offering for sale of approximately $6,485,000 principal amount of Lease Purchase Revenue Bonds (Master Lease), Series 2025A PBC Bonds of the PBC of JOCO.  A public commenter requested clarification on the sign-up procedure for the PBC public comments.  This is a procedural vote to provide notice that the staff is preparing to sell the debt per the clarification request made by Brewer.     Briefing Sheet BFP PBC Resolution No. PBC 002-25 Authorize Sale of PBC Bonds final.docx
  
September 25, 2025

Award Recognition—Johnson County Parks and Recreation was recognized as a Gold Medal Plaque Award recipient from the American Academy for Parks and Recreation Administration and the National Recreation and Park Association. JCPRD is the largest provider of childcare in the community, among many other exciting contributions.

Public Comments--Public Comments lasted about 10 minutes. These included praise for the JCPRD, appreciation of the Board’s work for inclusion, and a prayer for justice, hunger, shelter and for those who deny these to others. Another public commenter accused the Chair of delivering “tirades” concerning the funding of mental health co-responders. The third Two people without shelter both commented on the desperate need for a day shelter and the difficulties of maintaining hygiene, nutrition, personal safety, and security. The fourth commenter complained about local budgets, the safety sales tax, and property taxes.

The Board approved the following appointments to the Johnson County Airport Commission Governing Board: Paula Schwach, Michael Moore, Patrick Samuel (Sam) Whitehead, Carol Lehman, R. Lee Harris and Daniel Nielson.

The resignation of Ken Klingensmith as Clerk of Aubry Township was accepted, and the Board approved the appointment of Dawn Christy as Clerk. Brewer explained that because Klingensmith was appointed as treasurer, a replacement was necessary for the clerkship.

Brewer explained a little about the governing structure of the township, a historical artifact which has often outlived its usefulness. Allenbrand noted that the township form of government, although decreed by state statute or the constitution, might be eliminated.

Brewer described other township issues, including the difficulty in finding people to serve in office and townships receiving tax dollars despite having no population, among others.

Daniel Ryan was appointed to the Johnson County Board of Zoning Appeals.

The Board agreed to delegate certain authority to the director of the Department of Emergency Services or designee to enter into no-cost operational agreements. These have included an agreement with the Johnson County Sheriff about the appointment of Tactical Medics and Special Deputies, for example, and will not include agreements with state and federal agencies. In answer to Ashcraft’s inquiry, Peg Trent explained the liability involved. Ashcraft voted against it because he didn’t want to give this responsibility to staff.

   Briefing Sheet Delegation of Authority to DES Director for No-cost Operational Agreements (002).docx

The Board approved the following items:

 --An agreement with Leawood for a MED-ACT co-location at Station 32 for space for personnel, ambulance/response vehicles, equipment, and supplies for ten years, with a one-time payment to Leawood of $440,968.  A public commenter complained about the sources of the payment and about the possibility of other cities demanding the same payment. As a practice, capital projects for MED-ACT and the Fire Department require a 20 year period of investment, but smaller projects only require a ten year period.

   Briefing Sheet DES Station 32 License Agreement Revised2.docx

 --The County Department of Corrections’ SFY2025 year-end outcome report to the Kansas Department of Corrections as recommended by the Community Corrections Advisory Board on August 5, 2025.    FY 25 Adult Case Plan Summary year-end.docx

 --The County Department of Corrections’ SFY2025 Year-End Juvenile Outcome Report to the Kansas Department of Corrections as recommended by the Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board on September 9, 2025. Although Ashcraft complained about the lack of metrics for outcomes in the reports, it was explained that the presented material is a required “case management report” and, as such, is based on those criteria. Outcomes metrics are included in other reports.

   FY 25 Juvenile Case Plan Summary, year end.docx

--The Board ‘s joint response to the Kansas Open Meetings Act (“KOMA”) complaint filed with the Kansas Attorney General on August 13, 2024. Former Commissioner Charlotte O’Hara has filed several complaints resulting in investigations of the County by the Attorney General’s office in recent years. One of these complaints alleged that she was denied access to the County Manager’s calendar and to staff emails regarding the proposed homeless services center. She also copied several media outlets. The Board held the executive sessions (about 10 minutes), currently challenged by O'Hara to protect legal advice under the attorney-client privilege, per Kansas statute.

As an elected commissioner, O’Hara voted for and participated in the executive sessions, but she argued the discussion should have been public. The attorney general’s letter notifying the Board of the complaint states that the Board and individual members are not required to reveal confidential information protected by attorney-client privilege.

Trent estimated that County staff and attorneys have spent 40 - 60 hours working on this issue; an additional full-time attorney has been hired to handle the huge increase in KORA requests.   2025 0925 AG KOMA Complaint Response.pdf

Management Reports

Comprehensive Plan Annual Review-- During the County’s 2024 update of the Policy Area Map and area plans, it was identified that CARNP needed review, especially because of the annexation and repurposing of the Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant, which now includes an industrial/commercial development area known as Astra Enterprise Park located in De Soto.

As the AEP develops, the northwest area of the County will grow and, consequently, significant road infrastructure improvements will be needed to reconnect the AEP to the surrounding area.

Zoning Regulations—Update, Open House Meetings-- The Rural Comprehensive Plan

● October 7, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm (New Century Field House, 551 New Century Parkway)
● October 8, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm (Johnson County Administration Building)
● October 9, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm (Stilwell Elementary School, 6410 W 199th St)

County Economic Research Institute (CERI) Indicators – September 2025 Edition

            Indicator Memo 09-2025.pdf

Performance Audit— The County is partially following recommended practices in operating the ethics hotline. Most fraud is discovered through hotline reports, and written procedures should be established for the use of the hotline and analysis of data reported through calls, among other recommendations. This audit and others are available here: https://www.jocogov.org/department/county-auditors-office

September 11, 2025

Chairperson Kelly proclaimed National Co-Responder and Crisis Responder Week and noted that this is Patriot Day, commemorating the attacks on the United States on September 11th and particularly recognizing the first responders in Johnson County. He urged that we continue sustainable funding of these services, and welcomed Sheriff Roberson to the podium.  

Public Comments

Public Comments lasted about 15 minutes. A commenter requested a proclamation requesting Spanish language ballots and decrying book banning. Another commenter falsely accused the chair of “vituperative attacks” on Senator Marshall and AG Kobach concerning the election (March 2026 now) for renewal of the sales tax, and concluded with a complaint on wasteful spending. A third resident complained about the capital improvement projects, the budget, the community college, and property taxes. Two individuals offered remarks on the challenges and abuses of people struggling with housing challenges. A resident noted the murder of a young political activist yesterday and began a lengthy prayer.  

Notes for the Record

Kelly will sign the settlement participation forms in the nationwide opioid litigation settlements for Purdue Pharma LP and the Sackler Family, and opioids manufacturers Alvogen, Amneal, Apotex, Hikma, Indivior, Mylan, Sun, and Zydus.

Business Session

FIFA Law Enforcement Purchases

The Board approved $337,000 to the Sheriff’s Office to purchase vehicles and equipment necessary to provide law enforcement services for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A public commenter complained about the expense. Small, maneuverable motor cycles are needed to respond to the unique needs of this event and other events (Old Settlers, etc.). Allenbrand remarked that these vehicles are needed and will be useful for other events. Ashcraft asked about reimbursement from FIFA, which may be possible. Brewer asked whether the County already has transport vehicles. The answer was yes, but this paddy wagon will include inserts which will allow for better separation. Ashcraft stated that these items would be better included in General Funds. Six votes yes. One vote no, Ashcraft.

County Purchasing Policy

The Purchasing Policy was amended effective January 1, 2026.  Currently contracts resulting from a formal invitation for bid are now awarded to the lowest “responsible and responsive” bidder, but the terms "responsible" and "responsive" were not clearly defined. This revision establishes criteria to identify a responsible firm, ensuring that it possesses the necessary capabilities to successfully complete projects. It formalizes the County's existing practices.

A public commenter complained about the disability requirement, adding that “Workforce development” will skew the awarded contracts to large firms only, and asserted, among other things, that it should include language requiring only lawful citizens be awarded contracts. Will Reeder, The Homebuilders of Kansas City, commented that the “workforce development” clause is a positive addition that will improve the future of the local construction industry through apprenticeship programs, especially in underrepresented communities. Ashcraft and Allenbrand also argued that this revision will skew contract awards away from small businesses.

Peg Trent, County Counsel, noted that this revision is in line with state statute. At Brewer’s request, the link to this information will be on the web page when it takes effect in January. Ashcraft is troubled by “federal entanglements.” Kelly noted the importance of apprenticeship programs. Kelly acknowledged Allenbrand and Ashcraft’s concerns about the negative effects for small businesses. but asserted the need for a vision for County growth. He stated that it is the Board’s job to make policy, monitor the impact of policies on the community, but it’s important not to be led by fear, but rather to encourage small businesses to create their own apprentice programs.

Allenbrand asked that the County clearly communicate the new language and its requirements to the public. Kelly said we have time to do that. Fast stated that this is not impacting small businesses. Kelly replied that we have time before next January to do that. The vote was five in favor, two against (Allenbrand and Ashcraft.)

Management Reports

The National Association of Counties Achievement Award – Summer Snack Packs was recognized. Meghan Leahey, Director of Administrative Services for Aging and Human Services, presented information about the project.  Many children have less food in the summer because of the absence of school lunches; 54,400 Johnson Countians are food insecure, and many of the items offered by food pantries are not kid friendly. The County program offers snack packs and reusable lunch bags, along with other items. Deriving funding from SLRF funds, the program created community partnerships, and 403 children were served through the program.

Meyers asked about the future of the program, urging its continuation and noting that collaboration with other organizations will be necessary in the face of growing need.

   AHS NACo Award Sept 2025.pptx

The Johnson County Government has been named to Forbes “Top Employers in Kansas and Missouri.”

Kelly noted that there will be no meeting on September 18th. He went on to state that we are in a harrowing moment, which is based on the current violent and divisive political discourse. He mentioned the murder of the activist in Utah yesterday, the murders of the Minnesota politicians, and the school shooting in Colorado yesterday. Although we have strong political feelings, we are still each other’s neighbors. He asked all of us to join him in improving political discourse so that we can all be safer and move back to the fundamental freedom of safety. 

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Eight of nine board members were present, with one member attending online. Julie Brewer, of the Johnson County Commission, was not present.  

October was recognized as Hispanic Heritage month and is celebrated in all branch libraries.  

Much praise was given to the Library Lets Loose fundraiser, held September 20.  $142,000 was raised and it was attended by 500 patrons. 

17 bookmark winners were recognized in categories ranging from preschool to adults.  This brought a large group of families for the recognition ceremony into the meeting.  

Spring Hill and DeSoto libraries are now gutted and renovation construction of both has begun.  In the meantime, library outreach programs are staying very visible in the communities participating in parades, partnering with schools, food pantries and assisted living facilities.  

For the upcoming election, 6 library locations will have ballot boxes. A seventh location may be added.

Studies have been conducted by library staff regarding the exploration of presenting “printing allowances” to remove barriers within the community. A discussion about how this would fold into the library budget was discussed.  Some board members are clear about their priorities for this option to be provided as soon as possible.  Within the metro area Kansas City Public Library is currently the only library which provides free printing to patrons.  

Options are still being explored for the Corinth Library replacement and will be a topic at the Board Retreat, October 30, at the Leawood Branch, 8:00-12:00.  

To learn more, click here.

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All Board members were present for this month’s meeting.

*As has been recently reported in various news media, a district Kindergarten teacher was suspended, then subsequently fired from her job as a result of a Board policy infraction. These actions were taken at an earlier Board meeting.

Public comments followed the call to order, a majority of which concerned the aforementioned policy and its effects on students and the school community. There were also concerns expressed about proposed education regulating sexual violence among students and one opinion expressed about a book used at the high school level.

Board Committee reports followed. Among the items discussed at their latest meetings:
the District Strategic Plan and Priorities, the suicide prevention program, mental health and family resource initiatives and design and construction updates/capital improvements.

The Superintendent’s report mentioned the following:
- The District’s Niche ranking in the top 1% of the nation’s school districts
- 2 Presidential and 51 National Merit Scholars named
- Current official enrollment of 21,563 students
- New District and School websites coming soon

Strategic Plan updates were presented. Recent progress made:
-Exploration of a Center for Professional Studies at the Middle School level as well as transportation options available for student access to this and to other programs
- Individual plans of study and screen time/AI issues examined
-A Virtual Vitality Conference to be held in late October and an upcoming Benefits Fair as part of a Staff well-being program
- Partnerships with post-secondary universities to attract potential BV employees

A Design/Construction presentation was given, noting 97 capital improvement projects completed as a result of the 2023 Bond issue. Proposed changes to Policy 6610 on grandparent, bereavement and personal leave were set forth for approval at the November meeting. The bond obligation for 2025 was approved, as were the Human Resources report and 2 addenda.  Following Board comments the meeting was adjourned.

To learn more, click here.

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Council President Holly Grummert brought the meeting to order. Mayor Skoog and council members Heley, Kite, and Mosher were absent. 

The Council voted to approve the Overland Park 2026 Infrastructure Maintenance Program. The entire program can be viewed in detail here:  https://opkansas.civicweb.net/document/383620/2026%20Maintenance%20Programs%20Briefing.pdf?handle=1FFFDAB1FA104A1B8350941A8C26490F

The Council also voted to approve Guaranteed Maximum Price Task Order No 2 with Pyramid Contractors for $1,981,411.40.  This change was made to Project No BR-2944, which makes improvements to the existing 75th St. bridge over BNSF railway and Turkey Creek. This task order brings the total project cost to $2,141,665.40. The project is planned for completion in summer, 2026.   The original agreement between Overland Park and Merriam can be viewed here:

https://opkansas.civicweb.net/document/79240/Interlocal_Agreement-Merriam%20BR-2944.pdf?handle=17F85A2ED4D24B1E8A97BED3B0DE56C9

The complete agenda, minutes, and a video of the Council meeting can be viewed here:

https://opkansas.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=9414

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Mayor Skoog opened the meeting with all 12 Council Members present. 

Council President Holly Grummert announced that representatives from Overland Park's Sister City, BietigheimBissingen, visited during the last week of September. The representatives toured City Hall, the Overland Park Historic Society, the Saturday Farmer's Market, and the OP Fall Festival. During the visit, Overland Park’s 84th park was dedicated in honor of its Sister City. The newly opened park is located at 159th Street and Quivira. Amenities include a playground, educational signs, restrooms, a large open lawn, and a water feature.  All aspects of the new park were developed in consultation with the neighboring community.  To learn more about this Sister City history and relationship:   https://www.opkansas.org/about-overland-park/sister-city/

The Fall Festival attracted over 30,000 visitors to Downtown Overland Park. A number of  concerts and performances were featured Friday evening and all day Saturday.  There were 15 food trucks and approximately 90 artists and vendors from the City and the region. 

Lara Isch, Sustainability Manager for the city, spoke about the new LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification for Overland Park. Ms. Isch thanked the City's partners who helped submit the data needed for the certification, including WaterOne, Kansas Gas Service, Evergy, and the various City departments involved in the process.  To learn more about LEED:  

https://www.usgbc.org/leed/rating-systems/leed-for-cities 

Several Committee reports were submitted and discussed, including a report from the Finance, Administration, and Economic Development Committee, and a detailed report from the Planning Commission.  For the meeting video, agenda, and minutes:

https://opkansas.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Org=Cal&Id=9415