On episode #171 of JoCo on the Go, we check in on two treatment courts in Johnson County after they have been operating for a year: a behavioral health court and another adult treatment court, commonly known as drug court. We speak with judges and a mental health professional who talk about how the courts are serving defendants who choose to take advantage of the extra support the court programs provide.

Did you know you might be able to find that perfect holiday gift from Johnson County Government? On Episode #170 of JoCo on the Go, we talk with representatives from the Johnson County Park and Recreation Department (jcprd.com)and Johnson County Developmental Supports (jcds.org) about some great gift ideas. From a parks gift certificate that’s good for shelter rentals, recreation programs, permits and more to work from emerging artists at Johnson County Developmental Supports, we’ve got you covered this season.

On episode #169 of JoCo on the Go, we tell you all about two county programs that help provide funding for essential road and stormwater projects in cities around Johnson County. You’ll hear from city and county officials discussing the improvements that have been made possible thanks to Johnson County’s CARS and Stormwater programs and the positive impact they have had for our county’s residents. We’ll also take a look ahead to the projects anticipated for next year.

On episode #168 of JoCo on the Go, we discuss Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas. SHICK a free program offering Kansans an opportunity to talk with community volunteers and get answers to questions about Medicare and other insurance issues. Contact SHICK at either [email protected] or the hotline at 913-715-8856. In Johnson County, SHICK is provided by the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging with assistance from the K-State Research and Extension Office and Johnson County Aging and Human Services. Learn all about the program and how it can help you or those you love.

On episode #167 of JoCo on the Go, we visit with Fred Sherman, Johnson County election commissioner, about the upcoming August 6 primary election. The conversation focuses on deadlines to register to vote and how to cast a ballot in advance – both in person and by mail – and in person on Election Day. We also visit with Patrick Clark, an Overland Park resident who has served as an election worker for many years about the important role election workers play in conducting elections in Johnson County.

On episode #166 of JoCo on the Go, we take a look at some upcoming vaccine clinics being offered this summer for children in the community to get up to date on the vaccines they need to participate in school activities. We visit with Lina Thomas, a nurse with Johnson County’s Department of Health and Environment and Amanda Applegate with the Immunize Kansas Coalition to learn more. For additional information, visit the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s website, or call 913-826-1261 or send an email to [email protected].

On episode #165 of JoCo on the Go, we discuss a Youth Crisis Stabilization Center in Johnson County, which will help address one of the most significant gaps in care in the community by providing a place for young people to go when they experience a mental health crisis or emergency. Tim DeWeese, director of the Johnson County Mental Health Center, and Robert Sullivan, director of the Johnson County Department of Corrections, join the conversation to discuss the new project.

On episode #164 of JoCo On the Go, we take a look at the Notices of Appraised Valuation that will be showing up in Johnson County residential property owners’ mailboxes this week. Property values in Johnson County are continuing to increase, but at lower rates than in previous years. We discuss market trends with Johnson County Appraiser Beau Boisvert, along with information on how to appeal property valuations, including using a new online appeals portal on the County Appraiser’s website.

On episode #163 of JoCo on the Go, we discuss Johnson County programs designed to help older adults get better connected to their community. Feelings related to loneliness and belonging can often arise in this population, and Johnson County’s departments of Health and Environment and Aging and Human Services both have several programs designed to help. From a program that connects students with older adults in independent living facilities to programs like congregate meal sites, Johnson County is working to ensure older adults can stay connected to their communities and have better health outcomes as a result.

On episode #162 of JoCo on the Go, we look at Johnson County’s Senior and Disabled Veteran Property Tax Relief Program, which is now accepting applications. A pilot program this year offers up to $200 in property tax relief for seniors and disabled veterans who meet income requirements and other qualifications. The application window will be open until April 15 of this year. More information about the program, including information on how to apply, is available on the county’s website.