JoCo on the Go podcast episode #31 includes what you need to know about accessing free tax return assistance in Johnson County. The county, with its partners and volunteers, offers several locations to get help. Johnson County Library works closely with AARP to help older adults and those with low income to electronically file both state and federal returns. The Johnson County K-State Research and Extension offers free assistance to low-income residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Hear which documents you need to gather and how tax laws may impact your filing.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #30 includes a conversation with Johnson County Treasurer and Director Tom Franzen, of the county’s Treasury and Financial Management department, and Johnson County Motor Vehicle Specialist Jake Letner. They break down the fees and taxes you pay when you register your vehicle and renew your tags. They also talk about ways to get in and out of the DMV quickly, with tips on when to go and how to avoid an office visit altogether.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #29 includes conversations with Johnson County health experts Nancy Tausz and Dr. Ryan Jacobsen. They break down what the coronavirus (COVID-19) is and the steps Johnson County is taking should a case be suspected and/or confirmed in the county.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #28 includes details of the latest Community Health Assessment. Epidemiologist Elizabeth Holzschuh and Program Manager Megan Foreman, both with the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment, share a new way you can access health data in the county and your neighborhood. They discuss issues such as life expectancy, childcare costs and poverty.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #27 includes everything you need to know about your property appraisal. Guests include Johnson County Director of Appraisal Operations Beau Boisvert and Residential Valuation Manager Jeff Ramsey. They provide details about whether values are trending up or down and where you can expect the most change compared to last year. You’ll also hear how appraisals are conducted and values decided. You’ll find out how to appeal your appraisal if you feel your property was over or under valued.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #26 includes a conversation with Johnson County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Ed Eilert. He shares the top legislative priorities for the county as the 2020 legislative session gets underway. Those priorities include mental health funding, Medicaid expansion, collection of compensating use tax, property tax relief for low-income seniors and comprehensive transportation plan funding.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #25 includes details of assistance services for Johnson County residents facing housing issues. David Ward and Jesse Mofle, with Johnson County’s Human Services department, walk listeners through programs to help with affording housing costs and making needed repairs so vulnerable residents can remain in their homes.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #24 addresses radon awareness. Radon is a prevalent issue in Johnson County, with high levels being found in homes throughout our community. K-State Research and Extension agent Denise Dias shares how you can easily find out your home’s radon level. She also explains what’s safe and what needs attention. Also on the episode is Wes Hodgden, a Johnson County radon expert who helps property owners remediate radon. Dan Gathje also joins the conversation as a homeowner who had high levels of radon in his home and now has the peace of mind that the air he’s breathing is safe.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #23 is filled with great information about how Johnson County’s Emergency Operations Center works closely with the National Weather Service to stay ahead of winter storms. Meteorologist Ray Christensen talks about the accuracy of forecasting and what northeast Kansas can expect this winter. Johnson County Emergency Management Deputy Director Dan Robeson shares tips on how to stay safe when the snow and ice hit. Brian Pietig and Wes Root, from Johnson County Public Works, offer advice to homeowners on snow removal. They also share details on how the county treats the roads and how and when county roads are cleared.

JoCo on the Go podcast episode #22 provides an in-depth look at Johnson County Wastewater. You’ll hear from department director Susan Pekarek about how rates are set. You’ll also learn about the innovative and environmentally friendly wastewater cleaning processes that are in place. She’ll have details on progress being made at the Tomahawk Wastewater Facility construction project. Hear from Cory Welch who will share improvements to Johnson County Wastewater customer service, such as the new option to pay your bill by phone with a credit card.