In The Know with SNCO

If you've ever built, added on, or dealt with permits...this episode is for you! " 

On this episode, we're talking about a fun event that also supports a great cause. Shawnee County will host Bingo Night for Shawnee County employees and their families on April 8th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with proceeds benefiting Helping Hands Humane Society. Grace Clinton, Director of Philanthropy at Helping Hands Humane Society, is our guest. 

Our guest is Commissioner Riphahn, who is entering his final year as a Shawnee County Commissioner and his last year serving as Chair of the Board. Over the past seven years, Commissioner Riphahn has helped guide major county decisions, navigate complex challenges, and shape long-term priorities. In this Episode, we'll talk about what the role looks like day to day, what he's most proud of, and what comes next. 

This episode takes a closer look at Community Corrections, a part of the justice system many people think they understand, but often don't. When people hear "probation," they usually picture handcuffs, jail cells, or constant surveillance. The reality is far more complex. Joining me are Trenton James, Division Manager overseeing Adult Intensive Supervision Probation, and Erin Hicks, Division Manager for Juvenile Services with Shawnee County Community Corrections. 

Skyler Fitzgerld, Shawnee County Road Supervisor, explains the day-to-day operations, challenges, and insights into county road maintenance. 

This episode explores Old Prairie Town, where history, heritage, and community meet, and sometimes the past refuses to stay quiet!

Today, we’re joined by Devin Cooper, Recreation Leader at Shawnee North Community Center, who will be sharing insights into the strange, surprising, and spine-tingling history of both Shawnee North Community Center and Garfield Park — two community landmarks with more stories, mysteries, and legends than you might expect.

Traci Podlena has been with the county for a little over 15 years as a Horticulturist. She is the expert behind the beauty of Ted Ensley Gardens. We will learn what it takes behind the scenes of maintaining 37 acres, secrets to keeping flowers thriving, and why the gardens are such a special part of Shawnee County. 

This episode focuses on providing timely health guidance for families as the school year begins. Highlights essential immunizations, screenings, and wellness practices. Sharing Shawnee County-specific resources and upcoming initiatives. 

In this episode, we're taking you behind the scenes of Shawnee County’s 2026 budget process. Host Amanda Monhollon sits down with Commissioner Aaron Mays to explore what goes into building a county budget, how priorities are set, and what makes this year’s planning process unique. Commissioner Mays explains the importance of early fiscal planning, the key goals for 2026, and how the County Commission is addressing both long-term investments and financial transparency. You’ll also hear how residents can engage in the upcoming public budget hearings on July 3 and July 7, and why your voice matters in shaping the future of our community. Don’t miss this informative conversation that offers insight into how local government decisions are made — and how you can be part of the process. 🔗 Learn more or get involved: YouTube @ShawneeCountyKS

In this episode of In The Know With SNCO, we welcome John Landon, Director of the Noxious Weed Department. We talk about managing noxious weeds in Shawnee County! 

In this episode, we talk about pools, people, and all things summer in Shawnee County! 

On this episode of In the Know with SNCO, I welcome Curt Niehaus, Director of Public Works. We'll discuss the NW 46th Street Trafficway Project, SE Croco Rd Maintenance, 29th and Auburn, and the Safe Streets and Roads for All initiative. 

On this episode of In the Know with SNCO, I welcome Missy Middendorf, Registered Nurse and Division Manager overseeing our WIC, Maternal Child Health, and the Nurse-Family Partnership programs. We'll discuss the Shawnee County Health Department's Open House on April 8th, 2025. 

In August 2024, the Shawnee County Corrections Department held a groundbreaking ceremony for the New Behavioral Health Unit. This episode dives into what this means for our community.    If you have any questions for any of our guests, email them to [email protected] or leave us a voicemail at 785.251.4471. 

Shawnee County's first episode where we discuss Parks and Recreation December 2024 events and the Gage Park Renovations for the Gage Park Play Land. Our guest for today's episode is Sean Zears, Marketing and Communications Supervisor for Shawnee County Parks and Recreation.  If you have any questions for any of our guests, email them to [email protected] or leave us a voicemail at 785.251.4471. 

Introduction trailer for Shawnee County Kansas podcast.