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Wichita–Sedgwick Food and Farm Council names new and reappointed members; council offered to brief commission
Summary
The commission approved several appointments and reappointments to the joint Wichita–Sedgwick Food and Farm Council. New member Jeremiah Ortiz described expanded local produce partnerships; the council said it will prepare a report for the commission.
The Sedgwick County Commission approved multiple appointments and reappointments to the Wichita–Sedgwick Food and Farm Council, a joint advisory body created by the City of Wichita and Sedgwick County.
The commission adopted resolutions reappointing and appointing members to represent several categories on the council. Those approved included reappointments of Susan Erlenwine (natural-resources/conservation organizations), Kenzie Kirkland (workforce and business development), and Doug Kudilik (food producers), and appointments including Jeremiah Ortiz in the workforce and business developers category and Lexi Michael for training and education programs. The commission voted to adopt items C through G en bloc.
Why it matters: The council advises on food security, local agriculture and related policy. Jeremiah Ortiz, program director at Dear Neighbor Ministries, said his organization pivoted in mid‑2024 to prioritize local produce and partnered with three farmers to supply over 70 varieties of fresh produce to more than 1,500 households in a recent six‑month period. "We served over 70 different varieties of fresh, nutrient dense produce to over 1,500 households," Ortiz said.
Council members described the group as a learning forum that brings farmers, food‑rescue organizations and distribution partners together. Susan Erlenwine said the council includes ICT Rescue, which repurposes restaurant food into meals for people in need. Chairman Beatty and others thanked appointees for their willingness to serve. Commissioner Howe asked the council to prepare a short presentation for the commission on county food issues; council members said they would prepare preliminary materials and a report and that one council member planned to use the public-comment period at a future commission meeting to offer a preliminary report.
Action: The commission voted to adopt the resolutions and sworn appointees took the oath of office. Several appointees spoke briefly about council work and priorities.
