Wichita voters rejected a proposed 1% sales tax increase Tuesday, with just over 41,000 voting against the measure and a little over 9,100 voting in favor. Voter turnout reached nearly 20%. Wichita Forward and the Vote Yes Campaign proposed the one percent sales tax to streamline funding to first responders, homelessness initiatives and the renovation of Century II, with the possibility of lower property taxes in the future.
In a statement, Wichita Forward said that while the results were not what they hoped for, they respect the decision of Wichita voters.
Celeste Racette, who spearheaded the Vote No Campaign, said the results were satisfying and that she was pleased to see voter turnout.Those opposed to the sales tax said they remain committed to addressing the issues raised during the campaign, but plan to approach them one item at a time.
Hutchinson voters approved a 0.75% sales tax increase. Voters pass the sales tax, the "yes" vote winning by 150 votes. The City of Hutchinson says the sales tax money will be used for streets, parks, and stormwater and city operation bills.
Voters in Newton approved their $50 million school bond proposal, with 64% voting yes. Many of the projects will happen at Newton High School, including upgrading science labs, the “culinary arts kitchens,” and the swimming pool.Construction is expected to take at least a year and a half.
McPherson voters approved a two-part school bond proposal Tuesday. Question 1 passed with 64% of the vote. The $62 million bond will renovate and remodel McPherson High School. Question 2, which was dependent on Question 1 passing, also passed with 60% in favor. The measure includes $27 million, including the conversion of Eisenhower Elementary into a middle school.
Voters in Wellington said no to a school bond proposal for the second time in a row. Final unofficial results are Yes = 894, No = 920. After a prior bond vote failed in November, the Wellington school district came forward again with a scaled back $17.85 million bond proposal for what the district says are essential maintenance needs.