Buchanan’s impact will last

Sedgwick County Manager William Buchanan’s decision to retire next summer couldn’t be considered a surprise, but it inspires both gratitude and apprehension.

Gratitude because of how greatly the county and its residents have benefited over the past 23 years from Buchanan’s skill, judgment, foresight and professionalism.

Apprehension because it ensures that big change is coming to the county’s front office, no matter how next month’s County Commission races turn out.

Buchanan, 69, has guided the county through tough debates such as the ’90s trash wars and several political shifts, including an attempt to fire him in 2009. Without his vision and resolve, Wichita might not be home to the county-built Intrust Bank Arena and National Center for Aviation Research. His leadership has fueled the successes of Exploration Place and the Sedgwick County Zoo, and furthered the community’s economic development as well as its fights against homelessness and mental illness.

And the quick-witted county manager’s many accomplishments include one thing that didn’t happen – another jail expansion. Through his and others’ efforts, the county has managed its jail population via alternative programs and strong partnerships. In recent years, he ably steered the county through harsh budget cuts while protecting public services.

Though Buchanan was courted by more populous communities in other states, he chose to stay and serve in Sedgwick County. Retirement will end his employment here, but not his influence.

For the editorial board, Rhonda Holman

This story was originally published October 20, 2014 at 7:07 PM with the headline "Buchanan’s impact will last."