Sidewalk construction along Rock Road from Arnold (McConnell AFB) to Oak Knoll

National Family Caregiver Month – celebrated annually during the month of November – recognizes and honors family caregivers across the country who dedicate themselves to providing care and support to aging loved ones so they may live in their homes and communities. This year’s theme – Be Care Curious – encourages caregivers to ask questions, explore options, and share in the care decisions that affect the health and well-being of their loved ones to ensure they are receiving the best care possible.

Caregiving for someone is tough, and can create profound life changes. If you are one of the 90 million people in the U.S. caring for a loved one, thank you. Learn about additional resources and information by visiting  www.sedgwickcounty.org/aging/ .

Over the past year, Sedgwick County has been dedicated to developing a new comprehensive Strategic Plan. Input was gathered from County Commissioners, local and regional partners, community stakeholders, and county employees - many of whom spent time facilitating meetings and gathering information to contribute to this effort. To this end, there are fresh mission, vision, and values statements, along with new organizational goals. 

 

At this time, we are seeking additional input from the community, and encourage residents to participate in a short survey about the strategic plan. The plan is still being revised and public feedback is essential to the process. Comments will be collected until Friday, December 6, 2019.

WSU Public Policy and Management Center  has been facilitating Sedgwick County’s strategic planning process since February, engaging employees at all levels, and keeping Commissioners updated on the process. Topics have included attracting and retaining workers, internal and external communications, and ways to move the County forward over the next five years. 

Sedgwick County has received the highest credit worthiness rating of AAA from S&P Global.

Reported strengths include management practices, the County’s budget performance, fund balance levels/ ratios, the County’s liquidity, and its debt and contingent liability (a low debt limit). 

“Outside of our annual financial audits, this is an excellent way to provide assurance to our citizens as to the financial standing and management of the organization,” said Chief Financial Officer Lindsay Poe Rousseau. “This couldn’t happen without the Commission, County leadership, and support of the great Finance staff.”

In September, Sedgwick County received the highest credit worthiness rating from Moody’s – an Aaa rating which is above the median rating of Aa2 for US counties. Positive influencing factors cited included a solid financial position, an extensive and improving tax base, and a healthy wealth and income profile. The Moody’s rating also reflects an affordable debt burden which has decreased from 2014 to 2018.

The Board of Vote Canvassers and Election Commissioner, Tabitha Lehman, met on November 15 to review the results of the General Election. Results were finalized Monday, November 18. View them here.