Johnson County to host public informational sessions on proposed sheriff’s office and jail

Johnson County will host three public informational sessions about the proposed new sheriff's office and jail. The sessions will provide an overview of the proposal, explain the need for a new facility, and answer questions from the public. 

The informational sessions will feature presentations from Johnson County Sheriff Brad Kunkel and representatives from Shive-Hattery, the architectural and engineering firm working with the county on the project.

Johnson County approves bond referendum for November 3 election

During its formal meeting on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026, the Board of Supervisors approved placing a $94.5 million general obligation bond referendum on the ballot for the Nov. 3, 2026, election.

If approved by voters, the bond would fund the acquisition of land and the construction, equipping and furnishing of a new sheriff’s office and jail facility. At least 60% of voters must vote “yes” for a bond referendum to pass.

Morse Road NE paving project starting July 30

Weather permitting, construction on the Morse Road improvement project between Highway 1 and Wapsi Avenue is expected to begin Thursday, July 30, 2026. Construction activities will also take place on Turner Avenue.

Morse Road will generally remain open to traffic during construction, but motorists should expect delays due to daytime lane closures. Traffic will be reduced to one lane during working hours and directed by flaggers and pilot cars. Both lanes will reopen to traffic each night, except under unusual circumstances.