Wichita Voters to Decide on 1% Sales Tax Proposal

The tax would fund public safety, infrastructure, and social services if approved on March 3 ballot

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Wichita residents will vote on March 3 on a proposed 1% citywide sales tax that would generate an estimated $850 million over 7 years. The funds would be allocated for public safety, convention center upgrades, a new performing arts center, property tax relief, and homeless and affordable housing services.

Why it matters

This vote represents a significant decision for Wichita, as the city has not passed a sales tax increase since 2014. The outcome will impact the city's infrastructure, public services, and support for vulnerable populations.

The details

The proposed 1% sales tax would be added to the existing 1% Sedgwick County sales tax, bringing the total local sales tax rate to 8.5% if approved. The revenue would be allocated as follows: up to $225 million for public safety, up to $250 million for convention center improvements and a new performing arts center, up to $150 million for property tax relief, up to $150 million for homeless and affordable housing services, and up to $75 million for a new downtown performing arts center.

  • Wichita voters will head to the polls on March 3, 2026 to decide on the sales tax proposal.
  • If approved, the 1% sales tax would take effect on July 1, 2026 and terminate no later than June 30, 2033.

The players

Wichita Forward

A nonprofit coalition of business leaders that created the sales tax proposal and is now campaigning for its approval.

Aaron Bastian

President and CEO of Fidelity Bank and co-founder of Wichita Forward.

Ben Hutton

Co-founder of Wichita Forward and business leader.

Jon Rolph

Co-founder of Wichita Forward and CEO of Thrive Restaurant Group.

Laura Rainwater

Sedgwick County Election Commissioner.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Sedgwick County Election Commissioner stated that some polling locations have been changed to be more cost-efficient or due to scheduling conflicts. Voters must register by February 10 to participate in the March 3 special election.

The takeaway

This sales tax proposal represents a significant investment in Wichita's future, with funds allocated for critical infrastructure, public services, and support for vulnerable populations. The outcome of this vote will shape the city's trajectory for years to come.