In The Know with SNCO

What does a County Counselor actually do? How are major development projects evaluated? And what exactly are data centers and battery energy storage systems (BESS)?
In this episode of In the Know with SNCO, Shawnee County Public Information Officer Amanda Monhollon sits down with County Counselor Rich Eckert to answer these questions and provide insight into some of the county's most talked-about topics.
Rich discusses the responsibilities of the County Counselor's Office, including providing legal guidance to the Board of County Commissioners, reviewing contracts, supporting county departments, and assisting with elections. He also explains how economic development projects move through the county process and why confidentiality is often necessary during the early stages of business recruitment.
The conversation takes a deeper dive into data centers and battery energy storage systems, including what they are, why companies are interested in Shawnee County, how permitting decisions are made, and the questions county officials consider before any project moves forward.
Whether you're interested in local government, economic development, or simply want to better understand the discussions happening in our community, this episode offers valuable insight into the process behind the decisions.
Topics covered:• The role of the Shawnee County Counselor• Contract review and legal services• Election law and county government• Data centers explained• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)• Economic development in Shawnee County• The county permitting and review process

In this episode, we're talking about the first annual Shawnee County Employee Appreciation Picnic happening Friday, June 19th at Gage Park. Joining me is Shawnee County Commissioner Kevin Cook to talk about this new event, what employees and their families can expect, and why recognizing the people behind County services matters. 

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.