KANSAS CITY - Wichita residents will get to vote on a one percent sales tax proposal in a special election to be held in March 2026.
According to projections by Wichita Forward, a non-partisan coalition of business and community leaders, a 7-year, one percent sales tax would generate around $850 million for the city. The tax collections would provide around $150 million in property tax relief and another $150 million to address homelessness and housing services. In addition, around $225 million would fund the Wichita Police and Fire departments, $250 million to expand Bob Brown Expo Hall and make improvements to Century II, while $75 million would partially fund a new performing arts center.
Mayor Lily Wu said the decision to impose the sales tax is not just up to her, but by all Wichita voters.
The city projects that around 20 to 30 percent of the funds collected would come from out of town visitors.
Thirty-three people stood before the council and voiced their opinion about the measure. If it passes in March, the fund will be audited annually by a third party.
The council also approved ordinance amendments relating to nuisance and housing code violations.
A taskforce appointed by the council in late October reviewed the proposals. After several meetings, they had a number of recommendations, including appointing a subcommittee to review the city's maintenance code.
Council member Brandon Johnson was pleased that they were addressing the issues.
The city also will explore funding opportunities to address homelessness and assist tenants displaced from properties deemed unfit to live in.