Hard to believe that spring is already here, and another budget cycle has started in Sedgwick County. As my fellow commissioners and I consider the needs of our 46 departments and how they can best serve our community in 2026, I want to assure you that my goal is to hold the line on government spending, reduce the mill levy, if possible, and provide property tax relief to our residents.

I know many of you are especially concerned after receiving property appraisal notices earlier this month that show a dramatic increase in your home's value. While that plays a role in determining your property tax bill, it is just one factor in the overall calculation.

You might be surprised to know that Sedgwick County has more than 170 taxing jurisdictions, and Sedgwick County Government accounts for only 20-25% of your overall property tax bill. When compared to other neighboring counties, Sedgwick has the lowest mill levy rate in south-central Kansas (see below) and the second lowest in the State of Kansas.

Sedgwick County bans most open burning in April

During the month of April, many counties in Kansas - including Sedgwick County - have burn bans in place. Watch the video above to find out why the ban exists and what that means for Sedgwick County residents.

With this spring’s dry, windy conditions elevating the fire risk in our region, Sedgwick County Fire District 1 demonstrates some preventive measures in the video below that residents can take to protect their property from the threat of wildfires. For more information, visit https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/fire.

Health Department plans measles vaccination clinic

Even though Sedgwick County has NO reported cases of measles at this time, the Sedgwick County Health Department (SCHD) is responding proactively to a measles outbreak in other parts of Kansas and the nation. As part of its Healthy Babies Community Baby Shower already planned for Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., staff will provide a walk-in Measles (MMR) Vaccination Clinic at 1900 E. 9th St. No appointment is necessary, and there is no out-of-pocket cost to residents. Adults should bring identification, vaccination records and insurance information, if applicable. Visit Measles Vaccination Clinic | Sedgwick County, Kansas for more information.

Deadline to apply for 2025 Homestead Refunds is April 15

If you are a senior, veteran, low-income or disabled homeowner, time is running out for you to apply for a significant property tax refund through the Kansas Department of Revenue's Homestead Refund program. Contact the Sedgwick County Clerk's Office for free help determining if you are eligible and filing the forms. For more information, watch the video below and visit Homestead Refunds | Sedgwick County, Kansas.

Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office in the spotlight

The Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office is proud to partner with the Wichita Police Department and Wesley Children's Hospital to provide free gun locks to residents - no identification required, and no questions asked. To get one, simply stop by the jail lobby, any WPD station or ask a deputy on patrol.

Also in March, the Wichita Metro Crime Commission named Deputy Nathaniel Trout "Officer of the Year" (below on left with Sheriff Jeff Easter) at its 71st Annual Awards Dinner. Deputy Jamie Converse (below on right) was honored as "Willard Garvey Crime Prevention Officer of the Year."

Dispose of old tires at free event April 10-12, 2025

Sedgwick County residents can get rid of old tires at a three-day collection event hosted by Environmental Resources at its West Yard, 4701 S. West St., April 10-12 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Each load is limited to 50 tires, and no tires will be accepted from businesses.

Environmental Resources is also preparing to unveil its newly expanded Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility at 801 Stillwell, after months of construction. The photos below show the final stages of work in progress. Fittingly, the grand opening will be on Earth Day - April 22 at 10 a.m.! The public is invited to check out the new space, including a bigger Swap and Shop, to see firsthand how our Environmental Resources staff will be able to offer improved services. To learn more, visit Environmental Resources | Sedgwick County, Kansas.

American Legion honors Sedgwick County EMS, firefighters



Congratulations to EMS Col. Shannon Reed, who was named "Paramedic of the Year" by American Legion Post #408. The veterans group also honored Paramedic Jacob Oswald, Lt. Paramedics Matthew Pike and Jewel Yoder, Lt. Firefighter/EMT Arlan Spexarth, and Firefighter/EMTs Brian Allen and Stephanie Swope for rescuing a man with a spinal cord injury last fall.