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Latest News Releases

January 31, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE‍

Wichita Forward Clarifies Voting Information Shared in Recent Mailer

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Wichita, Kan. – Wichita Forward is committed to helping voters understand their options and participate fully in the March 3 City of Wichita sales tax election. In that spirit, we want to clarify information included in a recently mailed piece from the Watch Wichita Win campaign and reaffirm our responsibility to share voting guidance clearly and accurately.

First, the mailer incorrectly listed polls opening at 6 a.m. on Election Day. Polls open at 7 a.m., and we regret this minor error. While the mistake would not prevent a voter from casting a ballot, accuracy matters, and we apologize for the oversight.

Second, the mailer incorrectly stated that completed mail ballots must be received by February 24. For clarity, February 24 is the last day for advance by mail ballot applications to be received by the Sedgwick County Election Office. Completed mail-in ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on election day, March 3, to be counted. Our intent was to encourage voters to apply early and return ballots promptly to account for mail delivery times. We regret the error and any confusion it may have caused.

Wichita Forward takes seriously its role in sharing information that supports voter participation. Our goal has always been, and remains, to encourage people to vote early, vote confidently, and ensure their voice is counted.

We encourage all voters to rely on official election sources for final details, including voting hours, locations, and ballot deadlines, and we appreciate the Sedgwick County Election Office’s work in administering fair and accessible elections.

Wichita Forward remains focused on engaging the community, sharing opportunities to vote, and helping Wichitans participate in decisions that shape the city’s future.

For official election information, voters should visit the Sedgwick County Election Office website or contact the office directly at (316) 660-7100.

About Wichita Forward

Wichita Forward is a non-partisan coalition of business and community leaders united by one purpose: to champion ideas that nurture the flourishing and prosperity of Wichita. As a 501(c)(4) non-profit, we advocate for common-sense solutions that make our city a better place for everyone who calls it home. We’re committed to creating shared opportunities so that every Wichitan can thrive.

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January 29, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Old Town Association Endorses Wichita Forward Sales Tax Proposal

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WICHITA, Kan. – The majority of the Old Town Association board has endorsed the Wichita Forward 1% sales tax proposal, adding the support of one of Wichita’s most active business and residential districts.

The Old Town Association’s endorsement specifically noted the importance of targeted investments that support public safety, infrastructure, housing stability, and long-term economic vitality; priorities that are essential to sustaining the district’s continued growth and success.

“The Old Town District of Wichita is a vital economic and cultural hub in our community,” the Association said in its endorsement. “Continued investment in public safety, infrastructure, housing stability, and long-term economic vitality is essential to sustaining the district’s success.”

Wichita Forward leaders said the endorsement reflects the perspective of businesses and residents who experience the impacts of city investment every day.

“Districts like Old Town benefit when the city invests in public safety, addresses homelessness, and attracts visitors,” said Wichita Forward leadership. “This endorsement reflects how those citywide priorities matter at the neighborhood level.”

The Old Town Association endorsement also highlighted the clear accountability and community oversight as key reasons for its support

The Old Town Association joins a growing list of community organizations and individuals supporting the Wichita Forward proposal.

About Wichita Forward

‍Wichita Forward is a non-partisan coalition of business and community leaders united by one purpose: to champion ideas that nurture the flourishing and prosperity of Wichita. As a 501(c)(4) non-profit, we advocate for common-sense solutions that make our city a better place for everyone who calls it home. We’re committed to creating shared opportunities so that every Wichitan can thrive.

January 26, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wichita Forward Supports House Bill 2456 to Strengthen Equity and Local Decision-Making

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WICHITA, Kan. – Wichita Forward today announced its support for House Bill 2456, legislation that would allow local governments to exempt food and groceries from local sales taxes through a locally adopted resolution.

“House Bill 2456 provides communities with a practical tool to better align local tax policy with local priorities,” said Wichita Forward Leadership. “As Wichita works to address critical needs like public safety, homelessness, and housing stability, it’s essential that we also protect households most impacted by rising everyday costs.”

If passed, HB 2456 would give the City of Wichita the ability to exempt groceries from a local sales tax, helping mitigate impacts on low-income households while preserving the city’s ability to fund essential services and long-term investments. Wichita Forward views this important option as consistent with the values guiding its support for a temporary local sales tax proposal: shared responsibility, accountability, and equity.

“Local challenges require local solutions,” the organization added. “HB 2456 reinforces that principle by empowering communities to make thoughtful, balanced decisions that serve all residents.”

About Wichita Forward

January 23, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wichita Forward Welcomes Regional Chamber Endorsement; Coalition for City’s Future Grows Stronger

Wichita Forward is proud to have the business community's endorsement

WICHITA, Kan. - Wichita Forward, a non-partisan community coalition advocating for the 1% sales tax proposal, is proud to announce that the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce has officially endorsed the upcoming sales tax proposal.

This endorsement is a milestone in the effort to secure Wichita's future, as the city's largest business organization joins a growing list of residents, first responders, businesses, and community advocates supporting the plan.

"The Chamber's support confirms what we have been hearing: Wichitans want a plan that is both responsible and accountable," said Wichita Forward Leadership. "Having business leaders vet this proposal and give it their full backing shows that this isn't just a spending plan, it's a smart investment strategy for our neighborhoods, our safety, and our local economy."

The Chamber's endorsement specifically noted that "the investments outlines in the ballot language will strengthen Wichita's economic competitiveness and create long-term value for the business community."

The endorsement highlighted three key reasons:

Investment in infrastructure, public safety, housing, and downtown development
These areas directly influence a community's quality of place
These are critical components of a healthy and competitive business environment

"We're grateful the Chamber took a hard look at the realities of why this 1% sales tax is critical for our community, while also considering the safeguards in the proposal," the coalition states.

"Their endorsement is a green light for Wichita. It shows that when we all work together, we can solve our biggest challenges."

The Chamber joins a list of other organizations and individuals endorsing the Wichita Forward proposal.