Sedgwick County to Vote on $20.4M Forensic Science Center Upgrade

Officials say the project shouldn't raise taxes for residents.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:53pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a collection of polished, geometric forensic science equipment and tools arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic grey background. The objects are lit with dramatic studio lighting, creating deep shadows to symbolize the precision and importance of forensic analysis.Precise forensic tools and equipment symbolize Sedgwick County's commitment to modernizing its critical crime lab infrastructure.Wichita Today

Sedgwick County commissioners are set to vote on a plan to fund a major $20.4 million renovation and expansion of the county's Regional Forensic Science Center. County leaders say the existing facility needs upgrades as demand for forensic testing has increased and backlogs have persisted. The project would move the county's forensic science disciplines into a modern space, while the existing building would continue to house the coroner's office, pathology, and toxicology with upgrades.

Why it matters

The Sedgwick County Regional Forensic Science Center plays a critical role in supporting law enforcement and the justice system by providing essential forensic analysis and testing. Upgrading the aging facility will help the county keep up with growing demand and reduce backlogs, ensuring timely and accurate forensic evidence for criminal cases.

The details

The agenda item calls for the county to issue general obligation bonds to pay for the project, which are scheduled to be sold in 2028 and could be combined with financing for other county projects. Some residents may assume general obligation debt means higher property taxes, but Commissioner Jeff Blubaugh said that would not be the case if the county follows its financial plan. The county estimates the annual debt service would be around $1.5 million, which the Debt Service Fund is expected to cover without increasing the mill levy rate.

  • Sedgwick County commissioners will vote on the project on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • The general obligation bonds for the project are scheduled to be sold in 2028.

The players

Sedgwick County

The local government of Sedgwick County, Kansas, which is responsible for funding and overseeing the Regional Forensic Science Center.

Rusty Leeds

The Assistant County Manager of Sedgwick County, who said the project would move the county's forensic science disciplines into a modern space.

Jeff Blubaugh

A Sedgwick County Commissioner who stated the project would not raise property taxes for residents.

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What they’re saying

“It's kind of a swap, describing it as using property tax dollars that would be reimbursed after the bond sale.”

— Jeff Blubaugh, Sedgwick County Commissioner

What’s next

Sedgwick County commissioners will vote on the $20.4 million forensic science center project on Wednesday, April 9, 2026. If approved, the county will then move forward with issuing general obligation bonds to finance the upgrades, which are scheduled to be sold in 2028.

The takeaway

This project represents Sedgwick County's commitment to modernizing its critical forensic science infrastructure without raising taxes on residents. By leveraging general obligation bonds, the county can make necessary facility improvements to support law enforcement and the justice system while maintaining its long-term financial stability.