Commissioners discussed the county budget and future transportation projects at Wednesday’s meeting; county presenters reminded residents the budget adoption hearing is next Wednesday, Aug. 26, and invited public feedback online or in person.

County staff presented a $624,195,119 recommended 2027 operating budget supported by a proposed property tax levy of $217,672,598 (about 26.842 mills). Commissioners opened the public hearing, heard public comment, and closed the hearing by unanimous vote.

County budget staff presented a multi-year forecast that holds the mill levy at 27.567 mills, includes a planned $2 million annual transfer to the arena fund beginning in 2027 and restores zoo CIP funding. Officials cautioned that one-time investment income will decline and that compensation and public-safety costs will drive pressure in coming years.

County counselor briefed the board on a 1987 interlocal agreement that expands a Wichita mill levy countywide and explained a May 1 notice deadline and bond-related constraints; commissioners asked staff to analyze options, including statute changes or indexing assessed value, for the 2027 budget.

Commissioner Jim Howell outlined the county budget, explained a 1.4‑mill reduction approved this year, described how the countywide 1% sales tax offsets property taxes, and previewed proposals to shift sales-tax distribution rules and to place a sales-tax replacement/adjustment on a future ballot.

Officials invite public comments on Sedgwick County's proposed budget during public hearing.

Commission outlines agenda for August 20 with budget adoption and rezoning proposals.

Commissioner outlines risks of mill levy funding and potential budget impacts.

Commissioners announce public hearings for maximum property tax levy and budget for 2026.

Budget discussions highlight difficulties in balancing cuts without raising taxes amid a deficit.

Sedgwick County faces rising property taxes, straining low-income residents and threatening home ownership stability.

Sedgwick County faces rising property taxes, budget cuts, and calls for Medicaid expansion to alleviate burdens.

Budget discussions reveal need for 8% revenue growth to address $5 million structural imbalance.