Patrick Kelly loves Lawrence and Douglas County and serves as the Douglas County Commissioner representing the first District. Kelly is a University of Kansas graduate and earned a BA in Music Education and a Masters in Educational Leadership. He has been teaching in the Lawrence Public Schools since 1999. Kelly described the role and responsibilities of County Government including collecting taxes, public safety, District Court, planning and zoning, maintaining the system of county roads and more.
Kelly noted that all three Commissioners reside in the City of Lawrence, which has not happened before. Recently there has been discussion of increasing the number of Commissioners from three to five. He also discussed the possible extension of Wakarusa Avenue, the impact of the new Panasonic Plant in De Soto, and the new Treatment and Recovery Center. He also expressed the importance of collaboration among local governments and other entities.
Kelly is a member of numerous boards and he and his family are very active in the local arts community.
