A coalition seeks a public vote on a Wichita sales tax. Here’s how to learn more

Wichita Forward, the coalition leading an effort to get a one-cent sales tax on the March ballot, will hold information sessions in the coming weeks.

The sales tax would fund public safety, property tax relief and revitalizing Century II and the surrounding area, among other things.

The coalition will host two meetings: 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8 and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 15, both at the Advanced Learning Library, 711 W. 2nd St.

“The intent of both meetings is provide Wichitans with an opportunity to learn about the proposal, ask questions, and understand the potential impact the plan will have on the local economy if passed March 2026,” a news release about the meetings read.

The release said identical information will be presented at both meetings.

“Attendees will have the chance to review presentation materials and speak directly with representatives from Wichita Forward,” the news release said.

The Wichita City Council is expected to discuss whether to put the sales tax on a March special election ballot at its meeting Tuesday, Dec. 9.

The sales tax initiative as proposed would fund these items while it’s being collected:

• $250 million to go toward Century II and the convention space complex
• $225 million for public safety capital improvement projects
• $150 million for capital improvements and operating costs at Second Light (formerly the Multi-Agency Center) and affordable housing
• $150 million for property tax relief, which the group’s website says could provide “12% relief” through 2033
• $75 million to build a new performing arts center

The proposed sales tax would end after seven years.

Wichita does not now have a city sales tax. It receives more than 57% of a countywide sales tax approved by voters in 1985. It asked voters for a 1% tax in 2014 to pay for a new water supply and several city departments. Voters overwhelmingly rejected at proposal.