Public commenters press Johnson County commissioners on homelessness and wastewater deferments
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Summary
During the public comment period, residents urged the county to expand shelter capacity and criticized wastewater deferment procedures; speakers called for immediate action and audits of wastewater and procurement processes.
Several residents used the Dec. 4 public comment period to urge prompt county action on homelessness, question wastewater deferment practices and critique a proposed property tax relief program.
Brian Richardson described standing in freezing temperatures and said many residents lack shelter, urging, “People's lives are at risk” and asking the county to use funds to help unhoused neighbors. Commissioners later referenced warming centers and a recently opened facility (Project 10/20) in remarks.
Ben Hobert (also recorded as Ben Hulbert in the transcript) urged audits of Johnson County Wastewater, arguing the utility is violating Charter Resolution No. 29‑92’s deferment procedures for capital finance charges. He cited specific charter language about applications and board procedures and said the general manager did not produce an application form in response to a records request.
Phil Bauer of Leawood criticized a planned property tax relief program that offers rebates to some taxpayers while raising taxes for others, arguing for across‑the‑board tax reductions instead and offering a broad estimated range of program costs.
Jeff Harkness questioned why school funding comprises a large portion of property tax bills and raised broader philosophical points about public schools and taxation before his time expired.
Chair Kelly closed the public comment period after the registered speakers were heard and thanked commenters for participating.