Guardrails

Guardrails: The Commitment to Taxpayers

On February 10, 2026, the Wichita City Council approved a series of implementation “guardrails” outlining how sales tax proceeds would be prioritized and managed if voters approve the Wichita Forward initiative. The following summary reflects the eight resolutions adopted during that workshop.

1. Funding Prioritization Framework

A priority framework to ensure that property tax relief and essential services come before large-scale construction.

• The first approximately $21 million (or the amount sufficient to achieve a 4-mill property tax reduction) would be directed to property tax relief.
• The next $280 million would be split among property tax relief, homelessness/housing, and public safety until each receives $100 million.
• After those thresholds are met, remaining funds would be distributed proportionally among all five voter-approved initiatives.
• Based on current projections, funding for the convention center expansion and performing arts center would begin later in the collection period (estimated around 2029).

2. Performing Arts Center Private Fundraising Requirement

This oversight requires the private sector to provide significant financial backing before any tax dollars are used for construction.

• No sales tax proceeds may be spent on the construction of the performing arts center until at least $50 million in private contributions have been pledged orraised.

3. Century II Protections and Parking Study

Major decisions about our city's landmarks remain in the hands of the voters and are guided by expert data.

• An advisory election, in accordance with City Council Policy 38, must be held before Century II can be demolished or substantially remodeled.
• A parking study must be completed prior to the expansion of the Bob Brown Expo Hall.

4. Public Safety Capital Prioritization

This guardrail prioritizes that our first responders receive the modern facilities they need through a transparent, annual review process.

• Sales tax-funded public safety projects must be reviewed and prioritized annually through the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
• The resolution ensures the continued construction of the new southwest and northwest fire stations and the Northwest Patrol police station.
• Deferred maintenance at existing public safety facilities may also be prioritized through the capital planning process.

5. Property Tax Relief Commitment

Requires annual public reports to prove the savings are reaching you.

• Council committed to reducing the city's mill levy by at least 4 mills beginning in fiscal year 2027, once approximately $20 million has been collected for property tax relief.
• The City Finance Director will provide annual reporting on the amount of property taxes are offset by sales tax proceeds.

6. Housing and Homelessness Assistance Fund Structure

The fund provides long-term support services for our most vulnerable neighbors.

• $690,000 in 2026 and $2.75 million in FY 2027 are allocated for low-barrier homeless shelter operations.
• $1 million in 2027 is dedicated to wraparound support services.
• All interest earned on collected funds will remain in a restricted-special, permanent fund.

7. Sales Tax Relief Program for Low-Income Residents

This guardrail offers targeted assistance for households that qualify.

• Households eligible for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) may receive $55 per year to help offset sales tax paid on food and grocery items.
• This program will be funded through the City’s General Fund, not sales tax proceeds.

8. Wichita Homestead Property Relief Program

An extra layer of property tax protection specifically for eligible homeowners and seniors on fixed incomes.

• Eligible homeowners who qualify for the Kansas Homestead Refund Program may receive additional local property tax relief based on state income tax eligibility.
• Payments will be made from the City’s General Fund.

Summary of Guardrail Votes