At Tuesday's Wichita City Council meeting, a number of Wichitans asked the council to pause their efforts on a proposed one percent sales tax vote.
While the measure was initially approved last week, Tuesday’s meeting provided the community another chance to have their opinions heard during the second reading of the measure.
Celeste Racette, organizer of "Save Taxpayers - Vote No" and “Save Century II”, said she is extremely disappointed at the proposal. She cited problems with the Northwest Water Treatment facility and delays in construction around Equity Bank Park, including the West bank project along the Arkansas River.
Vice Mayor JV Johnston says the tax would allow for improvements to Century II, and voiced his displeasure with Racette and her opposition groups for looking at the past, and not forward.
As reported last week, projections by Wichita Forward indicate a 7-year, one percent sales tax would generate around $850 million for the city. It would provide property tax relief, address homelessness, fund Wichita Police and Fire departments, expand the convention center and make improvements to Century II; and partially fund a new performing arts center.
After nearly 3 hours of discussion, the council ultimately voted 7-0 to approve a special election on March 3.