The city of Wichita's parking fund is in the red for the third quarter of 2026, totaling just over $309 thousand.
We learned this during the quarterly financial report which was presented at Tuesday's Wichita City Council meeting. While parking revenues are up $700 thousand compared to 2025, expenditures are up $900 thousand.
Staff explained that revenue has been variable and falling short of expectations. Expenditures on the other hand are fixed, like management costs and the capital costs of the equipment, such as signs and parking meters. The city hopes the loss is a short-term phenomenon.
Gary Janzen with Public Works said budget adjustments may be necessary but the city will know a little more by the end of the week when October revenue figures are determined.
City Manager Dennis Marstall explained that conversations continue with Old Town merchants on a parking agreement for that area of town. The city believes they'll have a plan in front of the council by next March. Mayor Lily Wu said she is concerned that could be a little too late.
The council gave the green light for improvements to four city-owned parking structures, including the facility on Emporia Street and at City Hall. Work will address defects like spalling concrete and masonry damage.
Meanwhile, the city's overall revenue is performing at or better than expected, thanks to strong performances from property tax, sales and motor vehicle taxes and overperforming interest earnings. However, expenditures are trending higher than expected, largely due to public safety (Police and Fire) costs.
Looking ahead to 2027, the city says interest earnings may stay higher for a little longer with modest upside potential for sales tax figures.
