Board of Sedgwick County Commission
Notes by Josh Bernat
A burn ban is in effect through April. A measles vaccination clinic is set for April 5. A private airstrip was approved near Cheney with no lighting restrictions. Legislative discussions covered tax and justice bills. The meeting ended with praise regarding the NCAA tournament.
Notes by Sharon Ailslieger
The Commission recognized Sheriff’s officers for valor, students from Campus High School, Weather Preparedness Week, & the County’s risk management poster contest winner. They also approved appointments, obligation bonds, zoning cases, and discussed property tax concerns.
Notes by Ty Davis
The board passed a motion to ensure fairness of the county's comprehensive plan. Key topics included the approval of an island annexation request, property valuation adjustments, tax policy concerns, and legislative updates on juvenile justice, special elections, & public health.
Notes by Judy Winters
The Board approved appointments, and voted 4-1 to allow an outdoor event center near Mulvane despite public opposition. $12 million in bonds were approved for a hangar, a regional hazard plan, infrastructure upgrades, and revised DEI training, despite commissioner concerns.
Notes by Ty Davis
Wichita firefighters completed a symbolic stair climb at the Epic Center, reflecting the bravery of the 343 firefighters who died in the 9/11 attacks. Sedgwick County Park will host National Cleanup Day on 9/21, while Goddard celebrates new initiatives, like Meals on Wheels.
Notes by Linda Shriver
The Commission debated the Berkeley Group's solar farm proposal, with concerns raised about property rights, environmental impact, and the size of solar farms. Ultimately, the Commission approved the MAPC's proposal with a 4-1 vote, rejecting the alternative plan.
Notes by Mia Hennen
Sedgwick County residents are divided on solar systems but want more discussion, a new mental health building is planned for south Wichita, and the County Commission renewed its lease but seeks a new location.
Notes by Sharon Ailslieger
Key updates included the addition of 28 new polling places and an upcoming Veterans Awareness Expo on August 3 at the WSU Complex. Highlights also featured a video of the Sedgwick County Zoo’s new baby bears and plans for two more 2025 County Budget hearings on 7/31 and 8/21.
Notes by Josh Bernat
Sedgwick County Fire Chief Douglas Williams reported on the Evergreen Recycle Fire, showing drone footage and praising the National Guard's help. Also, Greater Wichita Partnership's $50,000 funding request for the Downtown Masterplan Project was approved.
Notes by Sharon Ailslieger
Sedgwick County Commissioners spend extended time debating zoning of land near Greenwich Rd and Harry. Health insurance for county employees will be covered by United Health Care and changes to parks, lakes and recreation policies hope to improve experience at local lakes.