Topeka Mayor Urges Kansas Lawmakers to Work with Cities on Property Tax

Senate President says constitutional amendment vote could lead to changes this year

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Topeka Mayor Spencer Duncan testified against a new proposal before Kansas lawmakers, urging them to work with cities on property tax issues. Senate President Ty Masterson indicated that a constitutional amendment vote could lead to property tax changes in the state this year.

Why it matters

Property taxes are a major concern for many Kansans, and the relationship between state lawmakers and local city leaders is crucial in addressing this issue. The mayor's testimony highlights the need for collaboration between state and municipal governments on this important topic.

The details

Mayor Duncan testified against a new proposal before the Kansas legislature, arguing that state lawmakers need to work more closely with city leaders to address property tax concerns. Senate President Ty Masterson suggested that a constitutional amendment vote could lead to property tax changes in 2026 if it passes.

  • Mayor Duncan testified against the proposal on February 18, 2026.

The players

Spencer Duncan

The mayor of Topeka, Kansas, who is serving more than 125,000 residents in the state capital.

Ty Masterson

The President of the Kansas Senate, who indicated that a constitutional amendment vote could lead to property tax changes in the state this year.

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What they’re saying

“I stand before you not just as an advocate, but as an elected official serving more than 125,000 Kansans as mayor here in the capital city,”

— Spencer Duncan, Mayor of Topeka (cjonline)

What’s next

The Kansas legislature will need to decide whether to put a constitutional amendment on property taxes to a vote of the people.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tension between state and local governments in Kansas over property taxes, underscoring the need for greater collaboration to find solutions that work for both state lawmakers and city leaders.