MED-ACT

Johnson County MED-ACT names new Chief

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:04:57 +0000

Johnson County MED-ACT names new Chief tim.dodderidge… Wed, 02/18/2026 - 14:04 February 18, 2026

J. Paul Davis, Director of the Department of Emergency Services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Colman as Chief of Emergency Medical Services for Johnson County MED-ACT, effective Sunday, March 1.

Colman brings more than 33 years of experience in Emergency Medical Services, including executive leadership roles across public, private and public utility model EMS organizations. He also has extensive experience as a program director for EMS education programs. Most recently Colman served as Corporate Asset and Logistics Manager for Amerimed EMS. Colman holds a Bachelor of Science in Administrative Management from Clayton State University and a Master of Public Administration from Columbus State University.

Throughout his career, Colman has been nationally recognized for his contributions to EMS innovation. Notably, The George Washington University College of Medicine and the Journal of Emergency Medical Services have honored him on two separate occasions for developing programs that improved operational efficiency and enhanced patient outcomes.

“I am honored to serve as the next Chief for MED-ACT and to lead such a dedicated team of clinicians and support personnel,” Colman said. “My priority will be to build upon our strong foundation of emergency medical service delivery, strengthen our capacity to provide exceptional care, and uphold the highest standards of safety and responsiveness for the community.”

Davis will continue to oversee the Johnson County Department of Emergency Services, which encompasses MED-ACT, Emergency Communications and Emergency Management.

Department:

Emergency Services

MED-ACT

Category:

News Releases

Dispatchers: Helping voices in 911 calls

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:28:20 +0000

Dispatchers: Helping voices in 911 calls tim.phenicie@j… Mon, 12/15/2025 - 15:28

Mike Babcock has dispatched for 29 years.

By Gerald Hay

When a call for help comes into Johnson County’s Emergency Communications Center, Mike Babcock is the voice of calm amidst the chaos.

He is the ECC’s most tenured 911 dispatcher who celebrates his 29th year of public service in January.

Babcock’s not alone. There are 29 full-time dispatchers and one who works part-time from the county’s Department of Emergency Services, which operates Johnson County’s hub for 911 calls and emergency communications. Completed in 2009, the facility is at 118th Street and Ridgeview Road in Olathe.

Dispatchers are the first voice callers hear when reporting an emergency.

They are trained and instructed to ask key questions to handle a wide variety of stressful calls and handle almost any emergency. Their job is gathering critical information and dispatching police, fire and medical help to protect lives and property.

Babcock warns that serious medical emergencies are time sensitive. Residents needing help or callers should not contact a family member or friend first for assistance or advice. This can delay getting the help that’s needed quickly.

“Always call 911 FIRST in emergencies where you need police, fire or medical help,” he said. “It’s OK to call 911.”

The ECC also includes the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Communications Division with 35 deputies, including Master Deputy Eric Boettcher. He is the longest-serving dispatcher in the division, spanning 19 years in his 24-year career with the Sheriff’s Office.

“The main information we need from a person calling 911 is the location – “Where is the emergency?” The location can be an exact address or intersection. The more detailed the better, for example: west side of the road, or is it inside or outside,” Boettcher said, emphasizing that every second counts in an emergency.

More than 440,000 total calls

The ECC has dispatchers/deputies providing 911 services 24/7.

The Sheriff’s Office Communications Division provides law enforcement dispatches in unincorporated Johnson County and 13 law enforcement agencies, including nine police departments and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. From January 2024 to October 2025, the division received more than 440,000 total calls, including over 139,500 911 calls.

Five area police departments also have dispatch centers and answer 911 calls in their communities for law enforcement services.

“None of them handle EMS (emergency medical service) calls or fire calls. As soon as a 911 caller indicates they have a fire or medical emergency, they immediately transfer the call to us,” said Kate Neal-Dorsey, the ECC’s Communications Operation Manager.

The “us” are 29 full-time and one part-time Emergency Services dispatchers. They serve five city fire departments, three fire districts and 19 Johnson County MED-ACT ambulances at 24-hour stations in eight cities.

“During that time (January 2024 to October 2025), we’ve taken close to 100,000 calls where medical help was needed – a little over 67,000 of those calls involved a patient 60 years of age or older,” Neal-Dorsey said, adding there were 29,740 dispatches for fire services.

The top 5 EMS-related requests (in order):

(General) sick/ill subject
Falls
Difficulty breathing
Unconscious-fainting
Chest pain

A 911 dispatcher’s job is far more than simply answering the phone. They handle incoming 911 calls as masters in multitasking.

As he works, Babcock calmly responds to victims calling for help, carefully gathering and recording their information. At the same time, the dispatcher has a direct line of communication with Johnson County MED-ACT and fire crews responding to the scene.

His voice is a steady monotone to cut through any panic for those calling to request help. “I try to get them to calm down and listen to me,” he explained.

Boettcher agreed. “I get to be the first contact on someone’s worst day, and I get to try to help them through it. Sometimes it leads to a happy ending and other times not so much,” he added.

What 911 dispatchers need to know

Remember 911 should be used for emergencies only, but do not be afraid to dial 911 because of uncertainty. Provide:

Your address
Reason for your call: Medical situation/concern, falling, fire, accident, prowler, etc.
Your name

Make sure the dispatcher answering the call knows location of the emergency, especially if a cellphone is being used, and the phone number in case the call is disconnected.

Listen and answer all questions as accurately as possible regarding the emergency to assist the dispatcher and follow any instructions carefully.

Keeping your medical history, doctor’s phone number(s) and emergency contact list taped to the refrigerator in an envelope marked “EMERGENCY INFORMATION.” Johnson County MED-ACT’s File of Life program provides a handy way to provide this important formation. Details are available by calling 913-715-1950 or visiting jocoems.org.

Remain as calm as possible, don’t lose patience or tell the dispatcher to hurry. They already know that.

Do not hang up until the dispatcher says it is OK to do so. To help save critical time after contacting 911, put pets in another room, turn on lights if the call is made at night, unlock and open the front door, clear a path to the patient (both inside and outside).

If 911 call is called by mistake, do not hang up; stay on the line and tell the dispatcher everything is all right. If you don’t, the dispatcher may assume that an emergency has occurred and send a response team to your location.

Trained for many emergencies

Rick Gisolf is deputy director and Chris Shelton is the training manager at the Communications Center.

Dispatchers are trained to respond to a wide assortment of emergencies. They ask specific questions to understand exactly what kind of help is needed to determine the urgency of the situation, send the right resources and ensure law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel have the information they need.

They will also provide either universal/general instructions or situation-specific lifesaving step-by-step instructions to help manage the emergency before first responders arrive on scene.

“There is a method to our madness,” Babcock said in gathering basic facts regarding the nature of the emergency call and vital information about the patient.

Medical alarm companies, providing and monitoring personal alert buttons, have a direct line to the ECC when a device activation is received. Details on the name, address and reason for the alert are shared.

Dispatchers will also ask for the caller’s phone number in case the call is disconnected. Wireless 911 calls, mostly from cellphones, usually do not provide an exact location where emergency services are needed, depending on the nearest cell-phone tower transmitting the call.

“Since Jan. 1, 2024, the percentage of wireless calls has held strong at around 77%,” Neal-Dorsey said.

Dispatchers generally provide the same scripted guidance. Training CPR; choking first aid; bleeding control; stabilizing injuries for someone after a fall; even childbirth.

Their instructions can include initial treatment of accident victims, evacuating from a house fire or safely fleeing from a sinking vehicle in floodwater.

“It goes to everyone whether it’s helping someone 2-years-old or 72,” Babcock said.

The life of a 911 dispatcher is defined by high-stress, round-the-clock shifts and coordinating emergency calls with first responders while trying to maintain calm in chaotic situations. While the job is emotionally demanding, it is also rewarding, with many, perhaps most, dispatchers finding significance in making a difference and saving lives.

“Being a dispatcher is not easy. It’s not for the faint of heart. It’s not for everyone,” Babcock said. “I could not do this job without having a great team to work along beside me. This is a team effort. It takes a village.”

Boettcher says his “village” includes great leadership, teamwork when things get difficult and in time of need, and even some fun.

“When I originally came to communications, I had only planned on staying here for 2-3 years before moving on to another division. Once here, I realized how good of a gig it was,” he said. “As an added bonus, I don’t have to work in the elements, write reports or go to court very often.”

Not all 911 calls have successful outcomes, but Babcock fondly recalled helping to deliver a baby during a 911 call.

“I heard the baby cry. It was a relief to know the baby had a good airway,” he said.

Some unusual 911 calls

Over the years, some 911 calls were quirky, funny or just plain weird.

According to Lt. David Ross, the Sheriff’s Communications Division once received a call reporting a loose kangaroo running around in Olathe.

“It was a legitimate call, and the animal was able to be captured without incident,” he added. The division also had a few calls reporting Starlink satellites as UFOs.

Babcock remembers ECC 911 calls requesting help to free a horse mired in mud, ducklings stuck in a storm drain and looking for a squirrel in an attic.

For the most part, dispatchers generally do not know the outcome of 911 calls as their primary role is to dispatch help and gather immediate information, not the long-term resolution of every incident.

They often do not know the outcome of a patient’s condition once they are transported to a hospital due to privacy laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA.

“A lot of times, you have to hope that your instructions made the difference,” Babcock said.

He has only met the people behind two past emergency calls he handled. They included the parents and their newborn daughter he helped to deliver; the other was a man he helped who suffered a heart attack. All wanted to meet the man behind the voice that helped them.

“When people stop and say thanks, the world stops for a moment, and you feel why you do this job,” Babcock said. “I like helping people.”

ECC serves as hub for 911 calls

Completed in 2009, the Emergency Communications Center at 118th and Sunset Dr. in Olathe is operated by Johnson County’s Department of Emergency Services and Sheriff’s Office Communications Division.

The Sheriff’s Office is one of six initial points of contact for 911 calls in Johnson County. There are 35 deputies trained in communications.

The division dispatches public safety services in unincorporated Johnson County and 13 law enforcement agencies. These include nine police departments (Gardner, Spring Hill, Lake Quivira, Merriam, Mission, Roeland Park, Fairway, Westwood and Olathe), Johnson County Park Police and the Sheriff’s Office which also provides law enforcement services in De Soto and Edgerton. The division also serves the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks as well as Olathe School District Police.

From January 2024 to October 2025, the Sheriff’s Office Communications Division received 440,416 total calls, including 139,528 911 calls, 300,888 non-emergency calls and 179,171 calls for service.

The top five law enforcement-related requests (in order):

Non-life-threatening medical call
Motorist assist
Non-Injury accident
Traffic complaint
Welfare check

Police departments in Overland Park, Lenexa, Shawnee, Prairie Village (Mission Hills) and Leawood are the other five initial points of contact for 911 calls in Johnson County, and have their own dispatch centers.

All fire and medical calls in Johnson County are transferred from these police dispatch centers to the Department of Emergency Services communications division with 29 full-time and one part-time dispatchers.

They provide dispatching services to five city fire departments (Leawood, Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park and Shawnee), three fire districts (Northwest Consolidated Fire District, Consolidated Fire District 2 and Fire District 1). Additionally, the ECC dispatches for Johnson County MED-ACT and Miami County EMS.

From January 2024 to October 2025, almost 100,000 calls resulted in dispatches where emergency medical services were needed and 29,740 dispatches for fire services.

The top five fire-related requests (in order):

Automatic alarms
Investigations
Lift assists
Injury accidents
Assist the public

MED-ACT to increase capacity to meet growing community needs

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 20:20:00 +0000

MED-ACT to increase capacity to meet growing community needs tim.dodderidge… Thu, 11/13/2025 - 14:20 November 13, 2025

Today the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners voted to create nine new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions to supplement MED-ACT staffing beginning in 2026. This action will increase ambulance coverage during high demand periods without increasing property taxes. A slight increase in user fees, still well below regional average fee rates, will reimburse costs for the new positions.

MED-ACT’s IMPACT Program consists of three ambulances and six staff who currently provide services eight hours a day, Monday through Friday (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), the peak demand time period for ambulance services. These nine new FTEs will allow MED-ACT to increase the use of those ambulances to 12 hours a day, seven days a week.

	Current	2026	% increase
# IMPACT Program ambulance staff (FTEs)	6	15	150%
Hours available per ambulance per week	40	84	110%

Why is additional MED-ACT staffing needed?

As the population of Johnson County grows and ages, demand has increased for ambulance services:

Call volume has surged 67% since 2010.
Average daily call volume in 2025 is 156, with peaks as high as 236 in a single day.
Sustained stress on the system extends well after the current peak IMPACT ambulances go off duty.

Johnson County MED-ACT has the goal of responding to 90% of emergent ambulance calls within 10 minutes. Due to increased demand, the department currently is not able to meet that goal.

	2021	2025
% of ambulances who respond on scene within 10 minutes	92.35%	87.63%

How will additional staff be funded?

Instead of increasing property taxes for all taxpayers, the BOCC approved a slight increase in the fees paid by patients who use the ambulance service.

Right now, the industry standard for ambulance fees is 2.5 to 3 times the Medicare reimbursement rate.
Johnson County MED-ACT user fees are currently 1.8 times the Medicare reimbursement rate.
Today’s BOCC action approved increasing user fees to two times the Medicare reimbursement rate, which still falls well below Midwest regional average user fees for ambulance service.

Johnson County has not increased user fees since 2020. With the new increased fees, depending on the level of ambulance care provided, the increased rates will remain between about 18% to 22% lower than the average fees for similar service in other Midwestern states.

“Having an ambulance with highly trained staff arrive as quickly as possible to your home when you need it is a crucial service, and one upon which the residents of Johnson County rely,” said BOCC Chairman Mike Kelly. “Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough money available for these nine new positions in the 2026 budget, and the delay of getting the Public Safety Sales Tax on the ballot forced a stopgap solution. I applaud staff and policymakers for devising a thoughtful approach to fund this urgent, life-saving service in a way that does not further burden taxpayers and keeps user fees well below the average rates charged across the Midwest region. Our aging community’s public safety needs continue to grow, and securing an ongoing funding source will be critical to maintaining and enhancing our public safety services.”

“I greatly appreciate the support of our Board to help our team continue to save lives every day in Johnson County,” said Paul Davis, Department of Emergency Services Director. “This will help to relieve the stress on our system during peak demand times for ambulance service, allowing us to strategically align resources with demand so we can get to your home more quickly, no matter what day or time you need us.”

Department:

Board of County Commissioners

MED-ACT

Category:

News Releases

Johnson County MED-ACT and Lenexa Fire Department save patient and kittens at local rescue

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:10:19 +0000

Johnson County MED-ACT and Lenexa Fire Department save patient and kittens at local rescue tim.dodderidge… Tue, 07/29/2025 - 09:10 July 29, 2025

On Friday, July 25 at 6:50 p.m., MED-ACT crews along with the Lenexa Fire Department were called to the Kitty City Kansas Rescue located at 12800 Santa Fe Trail Drive in Lenexa, KS on reports of an unknown type of medical problem.

When the ambulance crew arrived, they found a 23-year-old male patient inside the business unresponsive. MED-ACT crews carry a carbon monoxide detector as part of our equipment to be alerted to possible dangerous environments.

The CO alarm went off immediately upon entering the building alerting the crew to a problem. The ambulance crew was able to remove the patient, treating him outside in fresh air.

Crews were aware that a kitten rescue was in the shared building and called for additional support to help evacuate the kittens from the building and help mitigate the CO issue.

MED-ACT reminds everyone to be cautious when using equipment that produces CO gas. CO is a colorless, tasteless and odorless gas that can be a silent killer.

Install CO alarms on every floor of your house, in a central location outside of sleeping areas.
Use portable generators and other equipment outdoors in well ventilated areas away from doors, windows and vents.
Check vents on appliances such as dryers, furnaces and stoves to be sure they are free from debris.

With proper equipment and staff that are well trained to respond to this emergency, it did have a positive outcome. The patient was treated and released from a local hospital.

Department:

MED-ACT

Category:

News Releases

Drowning Prevention

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 15:09:10 +0000

Drowning Prevention tim.dodderidge… Thu, 07/10/2025 - 10:09

While swimming can be a fun activity to cool down during the summer, it can become dangerous in a matter of seconds. Did you know drowning is the #1 cause of death for children ages 1-4? For children ages 5–14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.

Even a momentary lapse in supervision can have devastating consequences, leading to severe injury or even death. Always keep an eye on everyone in and around the pool, regardless of their age or swimming ability.

In addition to supervision, it's also important to be prepared in case an emergency does happen. Follow these drowning prevention and response tips below to ensure a safe time at the pool for all.

Note: Layers of protection save lives. No single safety measure is enough. Combine multiple layers for maximum safety.

Constant, Focused Supervision

Designate a Water Watcher: A "water watcher" is an adult whose only job is to actively watch children in or near the water. Avoid distracting activities like using the phone, reading a book, or consuming alcohol or drugs.
Touch Supervision: For infants and toddlers, always stay within an arm's reach — be able to touch them at all times.
In and Out Together: If you leave the pool area, your child leaves with you. No quick "dashes" inside.
Know Before You Go: When visiting others, ask about pool safety and identify water hazards immediately upon arrival.

Barriers and Alarms for Homes

Four-Sided Fence: Surround your pool with a fence at least four feet high that completely separates the pool from the house and yard.
Self-Closing, Self-Latching Gates: Gates must open outward from the pool and have latches out of a child's reach (at least 54 inches from the ground).
Door and Window Alarms: Install alarms on all door and windows leading to the pool area from your home.

Emergency Preparedness

Learn CPR: Seconds count in a drowning emergency.
Keep a Phone Nearby: Have a corded phone or a fully charged cell phone readily available at the poolside with emergency numbers saved.
Rescue Equipment: Keep life rings, shepherd's hooks or other rescue tools easily accessible near the pool.
Identify Where You Are: Post your street address clearly near the pool for quick identification by emergency responders.

Swimming Skills and Life Jackets

Swim Lessons: Enroll in age-appropriate swim lessons. Remember, swim lessons are not drowning-proof.
U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets: For less confident swimmers, ensure they're wearing properly fitted, USCG-approved life jackets in and around water at all times. Water wings and inflatables are not safety devices.
Teach Pool Rules: Establish clear rules with your children and consistently enforce them (e.g. no running, no diving in shallow ends, always ask permission, no horseplay).

Other Pool Safety Resources

CDC Guidance JCDHE Aquatic Code JCPRD Swim Lessons

Johnson County MED-ACT urges the community to practice pool safety this summer amid spike in drowning related incidents

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:45:26 +0000

Johnson County MED-ACT urges the community to practice pool safety this summer amid spike in drowning related incidents tim.dodderidge… Thu, 07/10/2025 - 09:45 July 11, 2025

As high summer temperatures continue and residents flock to pools to beat the heat, MED-ACT is reminding the public to stay safe in and around the water.

With an increase in pool-related emergencies during the summer months, local EMS professionals want to ensure that everyone enjoys the season without tragedy.

This summer, Johnson County MED-ACT has responded to nearly double the number of drowning-related calls as compared to previous years.

“Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in young children, and it can happen in seconds,” said Drew Hysell, MED-ACT Battalion Chief. “By taking a few simple precautions, families can prevent accidents and enjoy their time in the water safely.”

Johnson County MED-ACT recommends the following pool safety tips:

Always supervise children around water, even if they know how to swim. Designate a responsible adult as a “water watcher.”
Install barriers such as fences with self-latching gates around pools and spas.
Learn CPR. Bystander CPR can save lives during a drowning emergency.
Keep safety equipment such as life rings, reaching poles and a phone nearby in case of emergency.
Avoid distractions like cell phones, reading or alcoholic beverages while supervising swimmers.
Teach kids to swim. Swimming lessons can significantly reduce drowning risk.
Stay away from drains. Ensure all pool drains are covered and compliant with federal safety standards.

EMS crews are trained and ready to respond to aquatic emergencies and recently participated in additional training dealing specifically with drowning emergencies, but prevention can stop drowning incidents before they occur.

“We want everyone in our community to enjoy a fun, relaxing summer,” said Chief Hysell. “With a little awareness and preparation, we can all help prevent drowning and make pool time safe for everyone.”

Department:

MED-ACT

Category:

News Releases

Investing in public safety: Past, present & future

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:27:10 +0000

Investing in public safety: Past, present & future tim.phenicie@j… Tue, 06/17/2025 - 14:27

Scot Goddard, rear, is shown with his family.

By Jody Hanson

Heart attack survivor was given a ‘new life’ 17 years ago by MED-ACT first responders.

Scot Goddard wakes up every day thinking about what he might have missed over the past 17 years, including his marriage, seeing his daughter grow up and enjoying retirement in Spring Hill.

“Even though I’m 68, I tell people that I’m a teenager… 17 years old into my new life,” said Goddard.

His “new life” began on Sept. 3, 2008, after playing in a volleyball league game in Overland Park. About 30 seconds after not feeling well, he collapsed. Bystanders performed CPR for the brief time it took first responders from Johnson County MEDACT and Overland Park Fire to arrive. On scene, paramedics performed what was then a relatively new intervention called Cardio- Cerebral Resuscitation, which focuses on continuous chest compressions instead of compressions and rescue breaths.

“I survived what they call a ‘widow-maker’ due to a coronary artery blockage, and my surgeon later told me my life was saved long before I got to the hospital,” Goddard said.

Goddard had open heart surgery, and remembers when he was discharged from the hospital 11 days later, “the whole squad of first responders were there to walk out with me.”

He will be eternally grateful to those emergency responders who helped save his life.

“You don’t think this can happen to you, but it can happen anywhere, anytime to anyone,” said Goddard. “When you go down, you need trained people to save your life.”

A majority of Johnson County residents agree with Goddard. Year after year in the annual community survey, Johnson County residents say emergency medical/ambulance service is the most important service for the county to provide. They also say that safety and low crime should be the county’s top priorities for the next five years.

Video: Meet Scot and Brian

Growing needs and growing price tag

Scot Goddard enjoyed a 10-year reunion with the first responders who helped to save his life after a heart attack.

With inflation, a growing and aging population and uncertainty with the county’s future revenue, the county finds itself at a critical financial juncture. Calls for an ambulance have increased 67% since 2010. Additionally, more than half of those calls are coming from residents 65 and older. Whether it’s a 911 response, a call for an ambulance or a mental health co-responder, these services are experiencing record demand.

While demand has surged for public safety services, so have the costs. Inflation has increased prices for ambulance parts, medical supplies and food service in correctional facilities. At the same time, state legislative changes have slashed $38–$45 million annually from the county’s revenue since 2020.

Renewal of a public safety sales tax In an effort to maintain the current public safety response, the Board of County Commissioners voted on May 8 to put a renewal of the current 1/4 cent sales tax dedicated to public safety on the Nov. 4 ballot. Voters may remember this sales tax from when they first approved it in 2016 to finance transformative projects like the new county courthouse and medical examiner facility.

Following the completion of those one-time investments, the conversation has shifted—away from just buildings to the backbone of public safety services on which all Johnson Countians rely and prioritize.

“When you pick up the phone and call 911 in Johnson County, you will speak to a dispatcher within 15 seconds. If needed, an ambulance will most likely arrive at your door in 10 minutes or less,” said Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly.

“As Johnson County continues to grow and age, it is crucial that we maintain these safety services.”

If renewed, the sales tax would fund a wide variety of county public safety services, including:

Vehicles (such as replacing aging ambulances)
Technology (such as upgrading 911 systems)
Equipment (such as emergency radios)
First responders (such as EMS, Sheriff deputies and mental health co-responders)
Facilities (such as new or renovated MED-ACT stations)

Lifelong appreciation for his public safety lifeline

Goddard will never forget the importance of ambulances, the 911 system, first responders and other components of the emergency medical system. He makes a point to share his story and say thank you whenever he comes across a first responder.

For several years after his heart attack, Goddard would run into some of the crew that saved his life while dining at a neighborhood restaurant, stay in touch through Facebook and even deliver lunch to the crew’s MED-ACT station.

Just before the 10-year anniversary of his heart attack, Goddard requested and was granted a 10-year reunion with the responders who helped save his life.

At the lunch event at a local barbecue restaurant, Goddard asked his daughter to read aloud a letter he had written to the responders on his behalf…he did not think he could get through it. The letter included the following thoughts about what he experienced the 10 years after his incident.

“I have dedicated most of this time to my family. I watched my daughter grow up from an 8-year-old to an 18-year-old now in college. I have celebrated my 20th anniversary with my wife who is also my best friend. Thank you for all you do and know you are impacting lives.”

Jody Hanson is deputy director of the Johnson County Department of Communications and Engagement.

By the Numbers: MED-ACT in 2024

Last year, Johnson County EMS accomplished the following:

63,129 Units dispatched
37,958 Patient Transports
11,289 Sick Calls
5,079 Breathing Calls
4,576 Traffic Calls
3,082 Chest Pain Calls
1,923 Stroke Calls

Did you know?

If approved by voters, the renewal would extend the existing Public Safety Sales Tax for an additional 10 years.
It would raise about $54 million a year, split between the county (64%) and JoCo cities (36%.) That means all Johnson County cities also have access to these funds for their public safety needs.
More than 28% of sales taxes collected in Johnson County come from visitors, not residents.
A 1/4 cent sales tax equals one penny on a $5 coffee, and $1.25 on a $499 outdoor grill.

You can stay engaged on this issue between now and the General Election on Nov. 4, 2025 by visiting jocogov.org/salestaxrenewal. Review results from a recent survey on the issue, share your feedback or request someone to speak on the topic at your organization’s next meeting.

Johnson County voters to consider Public Safety sales tax renewal on November 2025 ballot

tim.dodderidge@jocogov.org — Thu, 08 May 2025 21:49:42 +0000

Johnson County voters to consider Public Safety sales tax renewal on November 2025 ballot tim.dodderidge… Thu, 05/08/2025 - 16:49 May 8, 2025

The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners voted today to add a question to the November 2025 ballot for voters to consider a renewal of the Public Safety sales tax. If approved by voters, revenue would be shared between Johnson County and all cities within the county. The county’s portion would fund a wide variety of public safety programs, including but not limited to: Emergency Medical/Ambulance Services (MED-ACT), Sheriff’s Office, Mental Health Crisis Intervention, Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response, Department of Corrections, District Courts and District Attorney's Office.

“Johnson County has experienced significant population growth over the past 15 years, with an especially rapid increase in residents aged 65 and older. This demographic shift has created increasing demands on our public safety infrastructure,” said Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Mike Kelly. “Renewing an existing public safety sales tax allows us to continue funding essential services without increasing the property tax burden on residents."

The May 8 BOCC action certified the following ballot language:

“Shall the Board of County Commissioners of Johnson County, Kansas, adopt, renew, and impose for a period of ten (10) years a one-fourth (1/4) of one-cent countywide retailers’ sales tax in Johnson County, Kansas, commencing April 1, 2027, with proceeds from the tax to be distributed as required by law to the County and the cities in Johnson County, with the county share to be used for the purpose of financing the costs of construction, renovation, repair, maintenance, operation and personnel expenses of public safety projects, facilities, and programs, including but not limited to emergency/ambulance/911 services, Sheriff’s Office, mental health crisis intervention, emergency preparedness/disaster response, and criminal justice system?”

Learn more about this topic and stay up-to-date at jocogov.org/salestaxrenewal.

How the funding would be used

Johnson County’s demand for public safety services is growing due to population increases, an aging community and greater complexity in emergency response. Emergency medical services are responding to more high-acuity calls, particularly among older adults, and our public safety system is increasingly addressing mental health crises alongside traditional law enforcement. At the same time, inflation and workforce pressures are driving up the cost of delivering these essential services. There is also uncertainty of state and federal funding for essential services.

If renewed, public safety sales tax funds would go towards Johnson County’s public safety departments and programs. Examples of how the funds could be used include program improvements (e.g., mental health co-responder programs, new emergency dispatch services, re-entry programs for detainees); technology upgrades tied to public safety (e.g., body-worn cameras) and emergency communications/9-1-1 system enhancements.

Details on this revenue option

Kansas state statute allows counties to levy a retailers’ sales tax for the purpose of financing the construction and operation costs of public safety projects. The existing quarter-cent Public Safety Sales Tax III was initially approved by Johnson County voters in 2016. It is currently set to expire on March 31, 2027. This dedicated funding stream has historically supported critical public safety services and the construction and operation of a county courthouse and coroner facility.

Renewing the sales tax would generate approximately $54 million annually based on current collections. The revenue is split between the county and the cities within Johnson County.

$35 million annually for the county (64%)
$19.7 million annually collectively for cities in Johnson County (36%).

Resident feedback

Johnson County recently conducted a resident budget survey about how to fund growing demand for essential county services. Based on the survey, a majority of residents believe that:

Johnson County has experienced significant growth in the past 15 years (96%),
Demand for essential services has increased (76%),
The future of state and federal funding is uncertain (63%), and
The county will need additional funding to maintain and improve essential services in the futures (59%).

The annual community survey earlier this year showed that emergency medical/ambulance services and emergency preparedness were among the most important services for the county to provide. Most respondents named safety and low crime as the county’s top priority for the next five years.

Resident feedback will continue to be important to this process. Residents are invited to engage with the county on this topic by filling out this feedback form.

Department:

Board of County Commissioners

Department of Corrections

District Attorney

Emergency Services

MED-ACT

Mental Health

Sheriff

Category:

News Releases

MED-ACT celebrates golden anniversary

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 19:34:40 +0000

MED-ACT celebrates golden anniversary tim.phenicie@j… Mon, 02/17/2025 - 13:34

By Gerald Hay

Johnson County Emergency Medical Services will celebrate 50 years of providing pre-hospital care to Johnson County residents and communities in 2025.

Creation of Johnson County MED-ACT was the result of the EMS Systems Act passed by Congress in 1973 that provided funding for more than 300 EMS systems across the country and funds for future system development and growth.

The Kansas Legislature passed a bill, also in 1973, requiring expansion of EMS with a goal that 40% of the Kansas population would have access to emergency mobile intensive care (paramedic care) by 1976. The first Johnson County MEDACT paramedic training program began in 1974 at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

The first emergency call for the newly created Johnson County MEDACT service occurred on March 23, 1975. The call involved a girl with trouble breathing in Prairie Village. She was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Back then, MED-ACT was dispatched only to type 1 calls, which were the highest priority. Most fire departments in cities and fire districts operated their own rescue squads that transported type 2 patients (lower priority).

The department had 12 employees/paramedics staffing ambulances at two locations: one in the downtown Lenexa fire station; the other in Prairie Village Public Works.

Fifty years later, MED-ACT now responds to all 9-1-1 calls and medical emergencies, totaling more than 55,000 on average annually, in Johnson County and to the Spring Hill area of northern Miami County from 18 fixed ambulance stations.

Since 1975, 895 employees have worked for the department for different periods, including 185 current employees with a combined 1,443 years of service to the county.

“MED-ACT’s 50th anniversary is a milestone reflecting the unwavering dedication of its paramedics, EMTs and support and administrative staff since 1975. Our legacy is still being written as we grow and adapt to advancements in technology and clinical care enhancements,” Chief J. Paul Davis said.

“Our community remains our highest priority; we are committed to helping ensure Johnson County remains an extraordinary place, second to none, where people want to be, work and live. Our future is bright!”

Johnson County’s EMS services are recognized by state and national organizations, including the American Heart Association.

Last year, almost 60% of MEDACT patient transports involved residents 60 years old and older with 32% (more than 17,600) in the age range from 65 to 84.

Falls and sick calls each represented more than 20% of requests for medical assistance followed by breathing problems, 9%; chest pains, 5.5%; and stroke, 3.5%.

Also, since the CPR Training for Seniors program began in the fall of 2023, 910 participants have completed the 32 MED-ACT courses. The next session is scheduled at 8:30 and 10 a.m. April 19 at the Sunset Drive Office Building in Olathe. Registration is available at connect.jocogov.org/cpr.

When asked what they think is most important for the county to provide, respondents in the 2024 Community Survey listed providing emergency medical services as one of the top five priorities.

In 2024, MED-ACT opened its new Station #1131 to serve Shawnee and north-central Johnson County. The building was built on land that was once a horse corral.

Relocation also occurred last year of an existing ambulance/ crew to the new Station #1135 that was renovated from a former car wash in Lenexa.

The Sunflower Fire Station, now being constructed just north of the Panasonic Electric Vehicle Battery Facility, will house a MED-ACT ambulance/crew and personnel from the Northwest Consolidated Fire District.

MED-ACT is also currently building Station #1156 to serve western Olathe and southwest Johnson County.

Both new stations are scheduled to open by the end of this year.

MED-ACT plans CPR training for seniors

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:08:20 +0000

MED-ACT plans CPR training for seniors tim.phenicie@j… Thu, 12/12/2024 - 10:08

Senior CPR classes offered by Johnson County MED-ACT are scheduled on Saturday, Jan. 18, and Monday, Feb. 10, in room 1075 at the Sunset Drive Office Building, 11811 Sunset Drive, Olathe.

Sessions will take place from 8:30 to 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.to noon each day.

The classes are free and limited to 50 people in each session.

The educational sessions will focus on hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The program will also discuss MED-ACT’s File of Life program providing emergency responders important information, “Do Not Resuscitate” orders, fall prevention and other tips on health safety.

Registration is available at connect.jocogov.org/cpr.