JoCo on the Go: Everything Johnson County Kansas

Omicron COVID-19 variant

On JoCo on the Go, episode #120, The Omicron variant has made its way to the Kansas City region. Hear from Johnson County's local health officer about this COVID-19 variant, the signs, symptoms and what you should do if you get sick. The FDA has approved a new treatment for COVID-19, find out what it is and how it can help fight the spread of the virus. Also, learn what the current coronavirus trends are and what impact that is having on our health care system.

 

Episode was recorded on Dec. 22, 2021.

Problem Solving Beds

On JoCo on the Go, episode #119, Hear how Johnson County Department of Corrections has an innovative way to help justice involved individuals experiencing homelessness. Learn about the program and the big impacts it's having on lives. Also find out the latest on the employment and life skills programs the department has and how you can get involved to help your community. 

 

** Video used in this webcast was recorded pre-pandemic.**

COVID-19 safety and boosters

On JoCo on the Go, episode #118, the COVID-19 pandemic continues as we approach the holiday season. Hear from local officials on disease transmission and the importance of getting vaccinated. Also, find out how the county is creating more opportunities for families and individuals to get vaccinated. Learn about the safety precautions you're encouraged to take for holiday gatherings.

Appraiser‘s office starting valuation process for 2022

On JoCo on the Go, episode #117, the Johnson County Appraiser's Office is about to begin a big project that only happens every six years. Learn why special cars equipped with cameras will be driving through Johnson County neighborhoods gathering video images of your home and find out how this helps with the valuation process. Also hear from the Johnson County Appraiser on anticipated tends in the housing market in 2022.

New Johnson County Square Ribbon Cutting

On JoCo on the Go, episode #116, the wait is finally over! On Dec. 9, Johnson County will host a ribbon cutting celebration of the Johnson County Square which is the green space that replaces the old courthouse in Downtown Olathe. Hear the history of the square and how your feedback helped the design plans of the new space. Plus, learn about the impressive feature that is already installed in the square that was made possible by the local rotary.

Youth mental health services - part 2

On JoCo on the Go, episode #115, Johnson County Mental Health Center is helping change lives in a big way for youth throughout the state. Learn how young people with substance use addictions are turning their lives around and finding hope through strong supports and services provided by Johnson County Mental Health Adolescent Treatment Center. Walk through a typical day at the center and learn how employees and volunteers are making a difference.  As we approach Thanksgiving, those who have experienced the program are expressing their gratitude for the help they have received.

 

For more information on the Adolescent Treatment Center, visit jocogov.org/dept/mental-health

Youth mental health services

On JoCo on the Go, episode #114, young people in Johnson County have had an especially difficult time with the pandemic. For some families, those challenges have brought to light mental health concerns. Hear from mental health experts on what resources are available in Johnson County to be able to spot signs that something is going on and offer help. Learn how  Johnson County Mental Health Center continues to support residents by offering virtual training and resources for the community.

For general questions and service information, contact JCMHC at 913-826-4200

JCMHC crisis line (available 24/7): 913-268-0156

National suicide prevention lifeline (available 24/7): 1-800-273-8255; textline: 741741

Pediatric COVID-19 vaccines ages 5-11

On JoCo on the Go, episode #113, children ages 5 through 11 are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.  Hear from Johnson County Department of Health and Environment Director Sanmi Areola, PhD, and pediatrician Jennifer Watts, M.D., with Children’s Mercy Hospital on what you need to know about the vaccine, where to get the shot, what to expect and how many children in our area are now eligible. Also, learn how the county and Children’s Mercy Hospital have been preparing to vaccinate this new age group.

Elections

On JoCo on the Go, episode #112, It's almost Election Day! Find out how the Johnson County Election Office is preparing for the day and meet your election commissioner. Learn how staff is taking extra precautions to ensure your vote is cast quickly and safely. Advance voting and voting by mail saw a boost during the pandemic, find out if that trend is continuing and hear when you can expect to see results from the election.

Stormwater education with local high schools

On JoCo on the Go, episode #111, find out how an innovative partnership between local government and an area high school is instilling important values to protect our environment through stormwater management early on. By supporting and expanding the “Contain the Rain” program throughout Johnson County, learn how residents can implement best management practices in their landscapes while receiving financial assistance. Hear first-hand from a student the impact this type of program has on our future generation and how the partnership between local schools and local government continues to grow.
 
For more information on Contain the Rain, visit ContainTheRainJoCo.com.

The Johnson County Stormwater Management Program has supported educational activities since 2017 in the Johnson County portion of the Hillsdale Lake watershed through matching funds to the Hillsdale Lake Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy grant administered by the Miami County Conservation District.