Note from Commissioner Howell:
Perpetual Thanksgiving is Best
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Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite times of the year. The chill in the air and the vibrant fall colors create a setting of beauty and reflection. After the whirlwind of the political season, Thanksgiving invites us to shift our focus to what truly matters—our families, our friends and the many blessings in our lives. As the holiday season begins, it’s fitting to pause and give thanks. The hymn, “Count Your Blessings,” offers a timeless reminder that taking inventory of our blessings is a powerful practice. The song encourages us to count our blessings, not just in moments of ease, but especially when life feels discouraging, burdensome or unfair. Why? Because even in challenging times, there are blessings to be found if we look closely.
The concept of grace — the unearned goodness or favor we receive, is central to Thanksgiving. All of us have been blessed by others, often in ways we could never repay. Yet Thanksgiving isn’t only about feeling grateful; it’s about expressing it. A simple thank-you note, a heartfelt word of appreciation or an act of kindness can convey how much we value the sacrifices others make for us - their time, talents and generosity. As a person of faith, I can’t approach this season without acknowledging the ultimate source of all blessings. I don’t deserve the abundant grace God pours into my life, but He gives it freely because of His boundless love. Gratitude is the only fitting response to the intentional grace God offers to each of us.
So, as we gather with loved ones, savor the delicious food and enjoy the football games this Thanksgiving, I encourage you to go a step further. Be intentional. Don’t let the season pass without expressing your thanks to those who have shown you kindness, support and love. These moments of gratitude are what matter most. Thanksgiving should not be confined to a single day or season. Let’s carry its spirit into every day by focusing on the blessings we’ve received and by saying thank you to others and to God.
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The views expressed by Commissioner Jim Howell in this newsletter do not necessarily represent the governing body of the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners or Sedgwick County Government. | |
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Learn about issues affecting your community!
You are invited to attend the next District 5 Citizens Advisory Board meeting on Friday, Dec. 6, from 4-6 p.m. at the Oaklawn Community Center, 2937 Oaklawn Dr., Wichita.
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Other upcoming events with Commissioner Howell: | |
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Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.
- Monday, Dec. 9, 4-5:30 p.m.
- Range 54, 5725 E. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, 67218
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Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.
- Tuesday, Dec. 17, 7-9 a.m.
- The Grill, 222 N. 2nd Ave., Mulvane, 67110
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This is a special get-together with Commissioner Howell, held one week earlier than usual because of the Christmas holiday. Coffee provided.
- Friday, Dec. 20, 7-9 a.m.
- Calvary Baptist Church, Gymnasium. Enter at the glass doors on east side at 1636 E. Patriot, Derby 67037
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Firefighters demonstrate safe holiday cooking tips
Sedgwick County Fire District 1 wants you to have a safe and delicious Thanksgiving. If you plan to deep-fry your bird this year, watch this video to learn the precautions to take.
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Student design contest for 2025 "I Voted" sticker begins soon
Now that the 2024 General Election is over, Sedgwick County Election Commissioner Laura Rainwater is turning her attention to next year! She is inviting students in grades 6-12 to submit a design for the "I Voted" sticker that will be used in the 2025 elections. The contest runs from Dec. 1 - Feb. 28, 2025, with the winner chosen in March. For contest rules and forms, visit "I Voted" Sticker Design Contest | Sedgwick County, Kansas.
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Sedgwick County veterans highlighted in November
In honor of Veterans Day, several Sedgwick County employees, commissioners and other elected officials took part in a parade through downtown Wichita. It ended with a car show at Exploration Place, where veterans and their families enjoyed free admission to the museum. The Register of Deeds' Office also filed DD-214 discharge documents for vets and gave them free military discount cards that are good at businesses across Kansas.
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During November, as part of National Veterans and Military Families Month, some Sedgwick County employees shared their stories of military service. Watch the video below to learn more about Firefighter Rob Meuret II, who joined the smallest U.S. military branch - the Coast Guard. | |
Sedgwick County celebrates EMS promotions | |
Sedgwick County EMS promoted several of its employees in November. Join us in congratulating Major Matthew Morris, Captain Sharde Lovato, Captain Ryan Jones, Lieutenant Hannah Hotmar, Lieutenant Anna Davis, Lieutenant Chad Horton, Paramedic MaKayla Williams, Paramedic Scott Monk, Paramedic Jarron Turnbull, Paramedic Eduardo Nolasco, EMS Billing Manager Rhian Granger, and Billing QA Specialist Valerie Foster. Congratulations to all the newly promoted individuals! | |
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First responders unite for Battle of the Badges blood drive
Sedgwick County and Wichita law enforcement, firefighters and EMS are teaming up again for the 30th anniversary of the American Red Cross Battle of the Badges, a friendly rivalry to see which agency can bring in the most blood donations from Dec. 9-31. Make an appointment now at redcrossblood.org.
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Kudos to Sedgwick County's accounting team!
In honor of International Accounting Day on Nov. 10, Sedgwick County praised the work of its professionals in the Finance division. Our accounting team is committed to serving both our community and Sedgwick County Government by accurately recording financial transactions, managing payroll for county employees and pursuing grant funding opportunities. Thank you for your expertise and integrity!
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Sedgwick County property tax bills are in the mail
On Nov. 26, the Sedgwick County Treasurer's Office mailed out property tax bills, which can be paid in full or in half-payments in December and May. If a resident chooses to make a half-payment, the first is due Dec. 20 and can be paid online or over the phone at (833)303-6683, using a credit card. To pay in person, residents should bring the tax bill with them to one of these locations:
- Main Tax Office, 100 N. Broadway, Ste. 100
- Douglas Tag Office, 2525 W. Douglas
- Kellogg Tag Office, 5620 E. Kellogg Dr. (Nov. 27-Dec. 24)
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Drug Court graduates celebrate sobriety
Families, friends and Sedgwick County Corrections staff cheered, as 7 of 25 graduates of Drug Court donned caps and gowns on Nov. 7 and received certificates for completing the program. Over 18-24 months, the immersive course applies intensive supervision, drug and alcohol treatment, drug testing and comprehensive services to help participants learn how to lead a sober and crime-free life. Watch the video below to see how two graduates changed their lives, thanks to Drug Court.
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Out and About with Commissioners | |
Commissioner David Dennis received the PBS Kansas Distinguished Veteran Service Award for 2024. This tribute honors hometown heroes who make a significant impact through their volunteer or military service. | |
At the bi-monthly meeting of the Sedgwick County Association of Cities (SCAC), commissioners and local officials toured Clinic In A Can, a business that builds self-sustainable medical structures from recycled shipping containers. | |
Connect with Sedgwick County | | | | |
