Earlier this summer, the Post asked our readers what issues you wanted to hear candidates in contested races address leading up to the Aug. 4 primary election.
Based on that feedback, we developed a five-item questionnaire centering the issues most important to residents across Johnson County.
Each day this week, we’ll publish the candidates’ responses to one question. So far, we’ve published responses on property taxes and the county budget, housing affordability and development, data centers, and immigration and the county’s role.
Today, we’re publishing candidates’ responses to the following question:
After the county’s plan to convert a Lenexa hotel into a shelter was blocked two years ago when Lenexa denied a needed permit, some readers say homelessness still needs a countywide answer. How, if at all, do you want the county to address this issue now?
Below are the answers the Post received from candidates on the issue:
Mike Kelly
I’m heartened by the momentum we’ve built and the important conversations we’ve had regarding housing solutions in Johnson County. From residents to the business community, from social service providers to the faith community, and with local governments throughout the county, the breadth and depth of engagement has been invaluable. We can build on this momentum and continue the important work of serving individuals all along the housing continuum. Increasing access to attainable housing is key to ending homelessness.
At the County, we’ve worked with partners, like Friends of Johnson County Developmental Supports, Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, and Metro Lutheran Ministries, to get more affordable housing online. Further, we’ve implemented programs, including eviction mediation, rental assistance, and landlord incentive, to help people from falling into homelessness.
While this work will continue, the County would be well served by a housing services center. This tool would best address a growing need, and would actually save money – law enforcement intervention costs much more than providing housing services. We’re not giving up – not when so many people in crisis are depending on us and when we have so many willing partners at the table. We will continue to convene the crucial conversations and the conversations must lead to the courage and willingness to take tangible action.
Karen Crnkovich
Homelessness is a complex issue with no one-size-fits-all solution. Some individuals need mental health treatment, others need addiction recovery, job training, financial counseling, or temporary housing.
The county has a role to play, but it shouldn’t assume it has all the answers. Instead of trying to build and operate every solution itself, the county should partner with and support nonprofits, faith-based organizations, healthcare providers, and local communities already doing effective work.
Any investment of taxpayer dollars should have clear goals, measurable outcomes, and accountability. Success should be measured by how many people achieve stable housing and greater independence, not simply by how much money is spent.
The goal should be helping people rebuild their lives while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.
Gene Senesac
Did not provide the Post with a response.
