Sedgwick County Commission

Sedgwick County is creating a new discount card program for military veterans and active-duty personnel.

The Regional Forensic Science Center is getting new equipment to help identify opioid drugs that are circulating in south-central Kansas.

Sedgwick County commissioners voted Wednesday to accept a $155,017 federal grant to pay for the machine. The Wichita-based crime lab will use the new device to streamline testing processes and reduce analysis time.

Tim Rohrig, director of the Regional Forensic Science Center, says the equipment will target the opioid abuse problem.

Kansas lawmakers restored mental health funding for Sedgwick County’s Community Crisis Center and two other mental health centers Wednesday.

Communities along the Ninnescah River in western Sedgwick County are watching closely for possible flooding due to water releases at Cheney Reservoir.

A possible internal investigation into Sedgwick County commissioners is still on hold.

The next steps could be decided soon now that the federal trial of Commissioner Michael O’Donnell is over. A jury acquitted O’Donnell Monday of nearly all charges related to his state and county campaigns.

Sedgwick County commissioners hired a county manager Wednesday.

Tom Stolz will earn more than $180,000 a year in salary and benefits. His contract is for 18 months, and includes performance reviews before the agreement can renew for another term.

Sedgwick County commissioners approved a temporary ban this week on the development of commercial wind farms and solar energy systems in the county.

The Sedgwick County Commission began a new term Wednesday with two new members.

It was the first official meeting for Lacey Cruse and Pete Meitzner, who were elected in November to four-year terms. Jim Howell began a second term as the 5th District commissioner.

Third District Commissioner David Dennis and 2nd District Commissioner Michael O’Donnell have two more years in their terms before the next elections.

Cruse and Meitzner took time at the end of the meeting to thank their supporters and give a hint about their style of governing.

Sedgwick County held an oath of office ceremony Sunday for three commissioners who begin new terms this week.

Pete Meitzner represents the 1st District; Lacey Cruse represents the 4th District; and Jim Howell returns for a second term representing the 5th District.

For Cruse, becoming a county commissioner is the start of a new career in public service.