Before a crowd of more than 700 people, Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chair Mike Kelly delivered his third State of the County address on April 8.

The event at the Overland Park Convention Center featured the chairman’s address followed by a reception.

During his speech, the chair shared a recap of the past year in Johnson County, including key successes and initiatives as well as his vision for the county moving forward.

The chair’s speech was livestreamed on Johnson County’s You-Tube channel and is available to watch on demand.

The county’s website, jocogov.org/stateofthecounty, features a link to watch the speech and other supportive materials, including summary of the speech and a photo gallery from the event.

The theme of Kelly’s address was “Fundamentals First” and focused on how Johnson County excels at providing the basic services residents come to expect. Topics covered in the address included:

• Health and Safety: The county’s ambulance service, MEDACT, is preparing for a continued increase in call volume, and construction has begun on the new Health Services Building.
• Infrastructure: Johnson County Wastewater is providing commendable service delivery. Airport operations set new records, and thanks to a grant, new energy-efficient buses will join the transit fleet.
• Parks and Libraries: Johnson County Park and Recreation District and Johnson County Library both have exceptional economic impact, and the new Merriam Plaza Library opened.
• Supporting the Community: Kelly discussed the services the county provides to those in need, addressed the opioid epidemic and introduced the new Communications and Engagement Department.
• Funding and Taxes: County services have been affected by inflation. The county’s mill rate continues to be the lowest in the state, and the Board and staff are looking at new ways to improve efficiencies.
• Housing and Tourism: In the midst of a housing crisis the county will work to create attainable housing. In tourism, numbers are strong as the county and region plan for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City.

Learn more and recap this year’s State of the County address at jocogov.org/stateofthecounty.