JoCo on the Go: Everything Johnson County Kansas

COVID-19 death investigations

On JoCo on the Go, episode #90, hundreds of people in Johnson County have lost their lives to COVID-19, we’ll talk to Johnson County Medical Examiner Dr. Diane Peterson about how these deaths are investigated. You’ll also hear from Johnson County Department of Health and Environment Director Dr. Sanmi Areola and JCDHE Epidemiology Director Elizabeth Holzschuh about the collaborative work with the Medical Examiner’s Office to conduct case investigations. They’ll also share with you the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine to stop the spread of this serious disease.

Reaching population immunity

On JoCo on the Go, episode #88, Johnson County is making great progress toward getting vaccine into the arms of those eligible, but there’s more work to do. Just how much? Hear from Dr. Sanmi Areola, Johnson County Department of Health and Environment director about a shift in strategy – going from mass vaccinations to community clinics. You’ll also hear about a new regional campaign that includes a goal of vaccinating 2 million people in the Kansas City region.

Volunteering in Johnson County

On JoCo on the Go, episode #88, if you have a passion for helping others, are a life-long learning and want to make some new friends, this is the episode for you. Find out about the many opportunities to volunteer for Johnson County. You’ll hear about a handful of program areas that offer great ways to give back to the community.

911..what’s your emergency?

On JoCo on the Go, episode #87, if you or a loved one suffers a medical emergency, do you know what to do? Hear from a Johnson County Emergency Management and Communications expert who will talk about how staff members are helping save lives and empower those in emergency situations to take action until help arrives. Also, find out about the impressive recognition the county’s 911 system has received for helping callers administer CPR.

Public health matters

On JoCo on the Go, episode #86, hear from Julie Brewer, executive director of United Community Services, a key partner in addressing public health needs in our community. She talks about the wide range of factors that comprise public health – medical care, nutrition, income-related stress, mental health and, in particular, she discusses the impact of housing on public health. Find out about a Johnson County housing study that looks at, among other things, access to affordable housing.

Restrictions roll back…some

On JoCo on the Go, episode #85, hear from Johnson County Department of Health and Environment officials about the new public health order that rolls back some restrictions. While there may less capacity issues for businesses, the experts reiterate the importance of continued safety precautions through vaccine distribution. Learn how vaccinations are going and when it will be your turn to roll up your sleeve. Content from this episode was recorded on March 25.

Detecting the coronavirus in unlikely places

On JoCo on the Go, episode #84, Johnson County health and environment and wastewater experts join the discussion about detecting COVID-19 and its variants in wastewater. You’ll also hear from a scientist with The University of Kansas Research who’s leading this innovative work in Kansas. She’ll talk about what her studies show us and how this research is helping state and local leaders make informed decisions to keep us safe.

One year ago, our world changed

On JoCo on the Go, episode #83, we take a look back on the pandemic in Johnson County – where we started, how far we’ve come and we talk about the work left to do. Hear where some of our pandemic response leaders were when they heard that the virus had reached Johnson County. We also discuss the signs of normalcy we’re seeing and what’s to come.

Understanding your residential property value

On JoCo on the Go, episode #82, your home’s Notice of Appraised Value hits the mailbox this week. What can you expect? Johnson County Appraiser Beau Boisvert joins us to talk about housing market trends – which areas of the county are experiencing the largest increases and which ones are decreasing or staying the same. Learn how the pandemic has impacted values. And find out how appraised values play a role in how much you pay in property taxes.

Preparing for severe weather

On JoCo on the Go, episode #81, hear how Johnson County is preparing for severe weather season. Learn about Severe Weather Preparedness Week, which starts March 1. Find out when the siren will sound and what it should signal you to do. Also, hear how storm spotters are training virtually this year to serve as the eyes and ears on the ground when disaster strikes. Don’t forget to sign up for Notify JoCo – the county’s mass notification system that alerts you to approaching severe weather and other emergencies.