June 2023
The Board of County Commissioners serves as the Chief Legislative and Executive Branch of the County Government. Composed of five members, with each Commissioner representing a district of the County.
The duties of the Board of County Commissioners include:
- Approving the County budget and expenditures
- Appointing the various department heads of the County
- Exercising powers of local legislation
Juneteenth commemorates a remarkable moment in our nation's history – the end of nearly 250 years of slavery.
Juneteenth commemorates the effective end of slavery in the United States. Over two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, 2,000 Union soldiers finally reached the most Western part of the U.S. and freed over 250,000 people still enslaved. This day became a national holiday in 2021.
Leavenworth County Offices will be closed on Monday, June 19th, in observance of this holiday.
Local events to attend Saturday, June 17th:
1 pm - The Richard Allen Cultural Center & Museum presents "Buffalo Soldiers: The Hidden Heroes of America," a documentary screened in honor of the Juneteenth holiday. After the screening, director Jurian Isabelle will take questions from the audience. More information can be found at this link.
6 pm - Our local NAACP Branch is hosting a Juneteenth Twilight Parade and Festival to celebrate Juneteenth. The lineup for the parade will be at 6:00 pm (at Riverfront Community Center Delaware & Esplanade), and the festival will be at Haymarket Square immediately following the parade. There will be live music, horseback rides, games, vendors, and food! Please bring lawn chairs, as seating is limited. More information at this link.
Summer Interns
From picture left to right: John Racy, Justin Kearney, Taylor Stoltz, *Todd Thompson*, Alexandria Vazquez, Lindsey Studzinski, Ethan Richardson
The Leavenworth County Attorney's Office has recently welcomed six interns for the summer semester who are currently earning credit for their work.
- John Racy attends the University of Kansas School of Law
- Justin Kearney attends the University of Tulsa College of Law
- Taylor Stoltz attends the University of Kansas School of Law
- Todd Thompson
- Alexandria Vazquez attends the University of Kansas School of Law
- Lindsey Studzinski attends the University of Kansas School of Law
- Ethan Richardson attends the University of Kansas School of Law
County Attorney Todd Thompson said, “This is a great group! All six came through the door on day one with energy and a desire to learn. We are eager to learn from them as well as have them learn from us.”
Contact countyattorney@leavenworthcounty.gov for additional information, or questions.
The Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office is seeking hardworking, dedicated, and career-minded professionals for the positions of:
Deputy Sheriff (Patrol Division) - $22.89/Hour, Full-Time, Benefits Eligible, Pay Consideration for Experience / Education
Deputy Sheriff Job Description
Detention Officer - $20.35/Hour, Full-Time, Benefits Eligible
Detention Officer Job Description
To apply click here !
The Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Emergency Management
Summer months in the U.S. are filled with the festivities of summer vacations and backyard celebrations. Backyards and lawns are rife with barbecue sessions as people indulge in music, game nights, and general merriment. Most celebrations surrounding the Fourth of July wouldn't feel complete without fireworks.
From fireworks that burst into intricate design spectacles to the ones that simply bloom across the dark sky canvas, you can find all sorts being sold around the country this time of the year.
However, it should be noted that fireworks safety is a matter often taken lightly. Most fireworks injuries occur between June 16 to July 16. Many of these injuries can be avoided if safety measures are applied.
Fireworks Safety Month in June aims to spread information about the hazards associated with using fireworks unsafely. As the summer months roll around each year, fireworks sales skyrocket. People buy them for use at get-togethers, parties, barbecues, and so forth. Fireworks, therefore, have become synonymous with American culture and traditions. That said, they still pose quite a few dangers, some of which can result in severe injuries or even death. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 10,000 people are injured yearly due to fireworks. In 2017 alone, 12,900 individuals were injured, with eight people dying. About 50% of all reported injuries are children and young adults under 20. Out of this, 45% of the affected children are under 14. Incorrect usage and amateurs attempting to use professional-grade or illegal fireworks have accounted for over 1,000 injuries. Fireworks used in unauthorized areas also lead to the destruction of land and properties.
To prevent your celebrations from becoming tragedies, note the necessary fireworks safety measures. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the fire departments release instructions on fireworks safety rules. Always buy and use legal fireworks that are safe for you to operate. Never allow kids to set off fireworks themselves. Ensure that teenagers using fireworks equipment are supervised by an adult and follow all precautions. Maintain a safe distance and keep away from the fire-off point of a firework. Do not rub or put pressure on any injuries or give any painkillers; instead, take the victim to the Emergency Room immediately.
HOW TO OBSERVE FIREWORKS SAFETY MONTH
- Educate yourself
- Learn about fireworks safety methods and instructions. Once you have a solid understanding of the safety precautions, you can enjoy the festivities to the fullest without any worries.
- Prevent others from doing dangerous stuff
- Speak up and step in if you see others indulging in fireworks activities that can be dangerous. Use your safety knowledge to let them know why a certain misstep can result in a lifelong tragedy.
- Make sure you are prepared
- It is essential that when tragedy does strike, you are of sound mind to remember all safety plans. Make a safety plan by keeping water sources close by. Chart your escape routes, and memorize emergency numbers.
Be safe, Leavenworth County!!
Are you looking for a new career?
Leavenworth County is a great place to work!
You can find all of our current job openings on our job opening section of our website.
One of our greatest resources at Leavenworth County is our hard-working employees. Weekly we take a moment to post an employee spotlight to recognize a job well done and to help our residents understand a little more about how local government works.
We would like to congratulate each employee celebrating a work anniversary milestone! We are proud to have dedicated employees on our team!
Stephanie Sloop, Public Relations and Planning Coordinator
Planning and Zoning
In this month's spotlight, we are excited to recognize Stephanie Sloop. Stephanie's official title is Public Relations and Planning Coordinator. She serves as the County's Public Relations Officer and Planning and Zoning Planning Coordinator.
Read more about Stephanie's role at Leavenworth County and her life outside of work.
How long have you worked at Leavenworth County?
Almost 11 years! I joined Leavenworth County in October 2012.
Describe your role here at Leavenworth County.
When I started here at the County, I was hired as Planning Coordinator for the Planning and Zoning Department. Planning and Zoning handles land development for the unincorporated parts of Leavenworth County. Many of our development cases, such as Land Divisions, Rezonings, and Special Use Permits, are heard by the Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners. A large part of my job is organizing these meetings, tracking agendas, and doing what I can to keep the cases moving forward. I'm also responsible for overseeing the coordination of meetings for various other committees related to development in Leavenworth County.
I am one of five people responsible for interacting with the public on a daily basis, whether in person or over the phone. Every day is different, but the department's goal is to always provide our residents with all the information they need, whether it's a quick answer or something that takes more intensive research.
About five years ago, the role of Public Relations was added to my job title. Leadership in Leavenworth County saw the need for an increased online and social media presence to interact with our residents and easily share important information. I work with all of our County departments to create and post our Facebook notices. If you catch me out and about at a County event, I'm usually taking pictures to share with the community.
What is the best part about your job?
One of the things I love the most about the Public Relations side of my job is getting to know a wide variety of people and programs at Leavenworth County. I enjoy working with our various offices and departments to celebrate employee, department, and County successes and achievements. Having a positive outlet for providing our residents with information about what's happening across the county government is a top priority.
What is most challenging about your job?
On the Planning and Zoning side, it can be challenging to tell someone they are limited to what they can do on their land. However, I like to embrace the challenge and work with the land owner and our planning team to find a solution that allows people to achieve their desired results within our regulations.
On the Public Relations side of things, there are a lot of moving parts and a lot of behind the scene tasks. Leavenworth County has over twenty departments and divisions that serve our residents. Juggling all the information we want to share with our followers can be challenging. Another challenge is finding the time to connect with the creative part of my brain. Sometimes I am given starter information that a department wants to share, which needs to be turned into something our followers will find engaging.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Free time? Ask me that question again when kid baseball and softball seasons are over :) Joking aside, I love spending my time off work with my husband, watching our kids do what they love, playing sports, playing with their cousins and friends, and now watching my oldest begin to plan a wedding!
When I have free time, I can usually be found on the back deck soaking in the fresh air or in the kitchen. I love cooking up a new recipe and enjoying it while relaxing on the couch, binge-watching a good show!
Is there anything else you want to share?
Yes, if you haven't already done it, follow Leavenworth County on Facebook!
Leavenworth County EMS
Leavenworth County Health Department
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World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Leavenworth County Commissioners recognized June 15, 2023 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Leavenworth County, joining communities in the USA and all over the world to highlight solutions to this systemic social challenge.
At the June 14th Board of County Commissioners Meeting a proclamation was declared for the awareness of the day.
The Council on Aging hosted a brunch and panel discussion with four area experts the following day to continue discussions on this critical matter.
Building Strong Support for Elders
As Americans, we believe in justice for all. Yet, an estimated 5 million, or 1 in 10, older Americans experience elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Working together, we can build the essential social supports that prevent abuse and keep everyone safe as we age.
There are many ways to get involved in strengthening our communities and preventing elder abuse. It is up to everyone to prevent and address elder abuse.
Talk about it – to your leaders, and to your neighbors.
- Advocate for elder abuse prevention and intervention programs.
- Educate yourself and enable others to better recognize the warning signs.
Lend strength to existing social support structures.
- Volunteer to be a friendly visitor and either call, mail or email an older person living in the community.
- Suggest telephone helpline programs or assist in arranging meal or grocery delivery services for someone who is a caregiver.
- Don’t tolerate ageism – this begins with not making fun of older adults.
Contribute to building new social support structures.
- Report concerns to your local Adult Protective Services program ( 1.800.922.5330) or law enforcement.
- Get involved with the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program in your state, working to resolve problems related to the health, safety, welfare and rights of persons who live in long-term care facilities (e.g., nursing homes, assisted living).
Vehicle renewals for customers with the last name starting with “H” or “I” will be due by June 30th
- Taxpayers may renew their vehicles up to 60 days in advance of their renewal deadline.
- Any Personal Property Tax or Real Estate Tax payments that were not paid on or before May 10th for the 2022 Tax year are now delinquent.
- Driver's License renewals at the Annex are now taking appointments again. Please call to set up an appointment at 913-364-5730.
Planning and Zoning
A building permit is required of all persons desiring to build any structure - residential, accessory or commercial, within the unincorporated areas of Leavenworth County. Structures smaller than 100 square feet are not regulated. The structure built must be the type for which the permit was purchased and used in the manner attended at the time the permit was issued. A building permit is valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Traditional building permit applications can be found in the document center or can obtained in-person from our office. Completed application packets can be submitted in-person, emailed to us at PZ@LeavenworthCounty.gov, or submitted through our new Building Permit Online Application.
After receiving a building permit packet, we will confirm that the application is complete. Please then allow for 5-10 business days for the application to be processed. Once the permit is complete our office will be in contact with the applicant to arrange payment which can be done by check, in cash, or over the phone via credit/debit card. PLEASE NOTE: there is a fee associated with processing credit/debit cards charged by the service provider that is a percentage of the overall cost.
For more information regarding associated fees, please refer to our Schedule of Fees.
Additional Information :
- Before beginning construction, please contact Kansas811 to determine where underground utilities are located on your property.
- When a parcel requires an entrance and is not being obtained at the same time as a Single Family Residence, an Entrance Permit Application will need to be submitted. More information about entrance permits can be found here.
- In order to submit a building permit packet, the applicant will need to be on the deed of the property. If someone other than the owner of the property is submitting a building permit packet, an Owner Authorization form will need to be submitted with the packet. Owner Authorization forms can be found in the Document Center.
NEWS AND UPDATES FROM THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OFFICE - JUNE 2023
Another Land Scam is Active in LVCO
There was another mass mailing purchase agreement brought to the Register of Deed's Office attention by citizen’s last week and the Sheriff’s Office this week. The postage permit was from St Pete, Florida while the letter states the company is located in Idaho. According to BeenVerified.com the contact information is in Hawaii. A search of the phone listed shows ONE owner of that number who has passed away. There is 1 relative listed as Duane & he is alive with Idaho as his state of residence.
Offerings seem to be half to 1/10th actual value. The Land Estate LLC has a C-rating with Better Business Bureau and poor reviews. Please review carefully and fully research before acting on any unsolicited offer you receive by mail, phone or text!
Sharing FREE Property Fraud Alert Service by Register of Deeds
If you are part of a club or organization looking for a speaker, I am available to share this community service in person. Email requests TMashburn@LeavenworthCounty.gov or call the office. I would be happy to share a program on Register of Deeds services with your group.
In these uncertain times, I encourage you to protect your property by also researching the benefits of the Transfer on Death Deed and talking with your attorney about any questions you may have about how that would affect conveying your property ownership. We have forms you may print off for free on our website .
For more information or to subscribe to Property Fraud Alert, call the Register of Deeds at 913.684.0424 or email tmashburn@leavenworthcounty.gov .
Why is it taking so long at the Transfer Station?
Have you been to the Leavenworth County Transfer Station and waited long to get in? Our wait time has dramatically improved since we opened our Outbound scale in March of 2022, but there are still times our customers must wait, especially in the Spring, Summer, and Fall. There can be many reasons why you’re waiting.
- We are a popular place! There are days that we hit well over 200 customers! We have new customers almost every day. So, sometimes we have a long line of customers - everyone entering the Transfer Station, except for recycling customers, must come across the scale and talk to the attendant. KDHE requires us to track and report every material that enters the facility.
- We have a wide range of customers with a wide range of debris. Some loads contain items that need special handling from the operators. Therefore, every operator can be busy simultaneously, and the line must wait until someone is available to back customers in.
- Throughout each day, the operators must take care of a full trailer and full bays. We are a Transfer Station, which means everything that goes in a bay gets loaded into a trailer and transported to a landfill. Therefore, after a load has been dropped in a bay, the operators must push it into the trailer. Multiple times during the filling of the trailer, the operators must compress the load with their backhoes. Once a trailer is full and compressed, one operator pulls the trailer out of the building, and another operator pulls an empty trailer into the building. Most of the time, there is still a lot of debris left on the bay floor, and it must be pushed into the empty trailer before a customer can be backed in. It is safer for customers and faster for operators for them to wait in line while this process is completed.
Thank you for your patience when you’re waiting to drop your debris. Our operators work hard to keep our facility clean and safe for all of our customers.
Keep in mind that Tuesdays and Saturdays are our busiest days. Wednesdays and Thursdays are our least busy days.
Transfer Station Contact Information
24967 136th St, Lansing, KS 66043
Phone: 913.727.2858
Email
Hours of Operation:
Tuesday thru Friday
8:00 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Saturday
8:00 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday and all County observed Holidays
Mission Statement
To provide evidence-based supervision which promotes public safety, offender accountability, and improves their ability to live productively and lawfully in our community.
Leavenworth County would like to communicate with as many residents as possible. Subscribe to our Monthly Newsletter and a variety of other alerts and news from our County Departments.
Leavenworth County is also on Facebook , so residents can follow their local government and stay informed about the latest news and events.
