By DALE HOGG
Barton County Media Consultant
Professionalism and dedication were the words used by Barton County commissioners Tuesday morning as they honored Sheriff’s Office Deputy Michael Fahrney for his service and Emergency Management Director Sean Kelly for his recent achievement. The Commission congratulated Fahrney for receiving the Employee Recognition Award for this quarter and Kelly for attaining his Kansas Certified Emergency Manager designation.
A credit to the job
Calling him a credit to law enforcement, the Commission cited Fahrney’s professionalism and leadership. The award, for the second quarter of 2025, was recommended by the Employee Engagement Committee and approved by Sheriff Brian Bellendir.
Judith Castro, president of the EEC, provided details to the commission, noting that Fahrney was nominated by his colleagues at the Sheriff’s Office. According to Castro, the nominations said he “is consistently demonstrating professionalism and his willingness to excel in whatever he does” since being hired on May 29, 2024.
Comments from his coworkers also highlighted his willingness to learn. He was also noted for his ability to act as a good leader when a corporal is off duty. The report concluded that Fahrney is a "credit to the Barton County Sheriff’s Office " with a bright future in his career.
“This is definitely an honor for me,” Fahrney said.
Making his mark
Kelly earned the designation at the 2025 Kansas Emergency Management Association (KEMA) annual training conference held Sept. 9-11 in Manhattan.
County Administrator Matt Patzner said the designation recognizes professionals who meet a series of rigorous criteria, including at least two years of emergency management experience and a demonstrated responsibility for some aspect of emergency management.
“I appreciated you guys having faith in me,” Kelly said. “It was a long road and I’m glad its done.”
Candidates must also complete prescribed coursework from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Kansas Department of Emergency Management (KDEM). Additionally, a successful candidate must have participated in design, execution, evaluation and planning for at least two exercises within the past four years.
It took Kelly two years to earn the designation. Now, he has to re-certify every two years.
Kelly has earned the respect of his peers across the state, said Commissioner Barb Esfeld, District 2. “He’s very well thought of. They said you’re a great asset.”