Sedgwick County

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.

Veterans who struggle with substance abuse disorders will have a new treatment option in south-central Kansas.

The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center is building a residential rehabilitation facility on its Wichita campus.

When it opens next year, veterans will no longer have to drive to Topeka, Leavenworth or Kansas City for inpatient VA care.

Dr. John Chelf, associate chief of staff for behavioral health, says the unlocked facility fills the gap between outpatient counseling and locked inpatient treatment.

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 officials say they are ready to partner with the state to establish a new regional mental health facility in the county.

Assistant County Manager Tim Kaufman says county commissioners have already identified land for a possible location.

A state task force recommended developing regional mental health facilities to help address an inpatient bed shortage at the state’s two psychiatric hospitals.

Kaufman says patients would also benefit from receiving behavioral health services closer to home.

More places to vote in Sedgwick County are available starting Tuesday.

Sedgwick County designated 15 churches, community buildings and a library as polling locations for the next four days. The election office in downtown Wichita will be open until noon on Monday, Nov. 5, for early voting.

The race for the Sedgwick County Commission’s 5th District is between two men who have experience being a commissioner.

Republican Jim Howell of Derby is currently representing the district, and independent candidate Jim Skelton is trying to reclaim his old job.

Sedgwick County commissioners are divided over a new policy that reduces the number of commissioners required to conduct county business.

The change in the quorum rule comes during a tense time at the county. There is a county-initiated personnel review into county leadership and an FBI investigation into the county commission.

Under the new policy, three commissioners instead of four will need to be present to conduct county business or hold meetings including executive sessions.