Note from Commissioner Howell:
How Should We Address Property Taxes?
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Ask anyone if taxes are too high, and the answer will likely be a resounding yes! Some people focus on their overall tax burden, while others are particularly frustrated with property taxes. For them, property taxes are the worst. Regardless of where you stand, most of us can agree on one thing—taxes are outpacing our incomes, and something needs to change.
Unlike Washington D.C., state and local governments must balance their budgets. They can use reserve funds, take on some debt or adjust spending, but in the end, every dollar spent comes from state and local taxes. Unfortunately, some people want it both ways—more government spending and lower taxes. I call this Washington-Think. It’s the kind of reckless approach that has saddled our country with nearly $37 trillion in debt.
There is no debate—taxes are too high. But a recent WalletHub report[i] (Feb. 18, 2025) ranks Kansas 27th for annual property taxes on a median-priced home. That means homeowners in 26 states pay less, but 23 states pay more. And within Kansas, Sedgwick County has the second-lowest property tax rate out of 105 counties. The statewide average mill levy is 127.2 mills, while Sedgwick County’s is 117.4 mills.
In recent years, sharp spikes in property valuations have sparked concern. To address this, the 2025 legislature has proposed two constitutional amendments affecting the appraisal process. The Senate plan caps annual assessment increases at 3%, while the House proposal smooths out spikes using a moving average. One of these ideas will likely appear on the ballot this fall.
Whatever proposal makes it to voters needs to be well thought out because it will pass overwhelmingly; yet any unintended consequences will be tough to fix later. These changes would require appraisers to track two values - fair market value and the capped value, further complicating the system.
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Rather than amending the state constitution, I propose a real tax lid - one that caps government spending unless voters approve an increase. Instead of tinkering with the appraisal process, let’s focus on limiting spending by giving taxpayers real control over their property taxes.
Not everyone in elected office agrees with me on this. Many believe government knows best, when it comes to spending your money. But deep down, we all know the truth - if we really want to control the size and scope of government, we have to put that power where it belongs. And who should make that decision? Not politicians. Not bureaucrats. You - the people.
[i] https://wallethub.com/edu/states-with-the-highest-and-lowest-property-taxes/11585
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The views expressed by Commissioner Jim Howell in this newsletter do not necessarily represent the governing body of the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners or Sedgwick County Government. | |
Other upcoming events with Commissioner Howell: | |
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Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.
- Monday, March 10, 4-5:30 p.m.
- Range 54, 5725 E. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, 67218
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Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.
- Tuesday, March 18, 7-9 a.m.
- The Grill, 222 N. 2nd Ave., Mulvane, 67110
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Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee provided.
- Friday, March 28, 7-9 a.m.
- Calvary Baptist Church, Gymnasium. Enter at the glass doors on east side at 1636 E. Patriot, Derby 67037
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Commissioner Howell completes disaster training
Because Sedgwick County Commissioners often play a crucial role in the emergency response to a community-wide disaster like a tornado, fire or flood, Jim Howell recently completed training provided by Kansas Emergency Management. The "NIMS Overview for Senior Officials Training" course helps executives, elected and appointed officials understand the best ways to support incident management. This includes making decisions on recovery efforts and connecting resources to those directly impacted. Practicing and planning for the worst day ever is one of the ways Commissioners work to keep our community safe.
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Property valuation notices mailed soon
At the Feb. 19, 2025, Board of County Commission meeting, the Appraiser’s Office presented its annual report on Real Property Value Trends. On March 1, the Appraiser will mail out more than 204,000 valuation notices for real property with a change in value or classification. This accounts for 87% of all real property parcels in Sedgwick County, and the median increase is 9%.
The video below, using 2022 data, explains the appraisal process, why property valuations keep rising and how to appeal a valuation. Instructions can also be found on the back of the notices.
Keep in mind that Sedgwick County Government's budget is only about 20-25% of your property tax bill (https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/finance/my-local-taxes/) and has reduced the mill levy the last 2 years.
Owners of property that did NOT change in value or classification will not receive a notice in the mail. All valuations will be posted online on the Appraiser’s Office website at www.sedgwickcounty.org.
| Commissioner Jim Howell also spoke at length about the property appraisal process at the District 5 Citizen Town Hall in Derby Feb. 19, 2025, recorded in the video below. | |
Take steps now to prepare for severe weather season!
Severe Weather Preparedness Week is March 3-7, 2025, when residents are urged to build a disaster kit, make a plan where to seek shelter and stay informed of the current weather conditions while at home or away. Watch the video above to learn more. You can also take a free severe weather safety class through Sedgwick County Emergency Management. Check out the schedule below to find a class near you.
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Sedgwick County celebrates Black History Month
February is Black History Month, when our nation celebrates the culture and contributions of Black Americans, past and present. As part of that recognition, several Sedgwick County employees shared stories about their heritage and why they joined the Unity Collective, an internal group ensuring that all County departments and staff are represented. Watch the video below to learn more.
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Sedgwick County Clerk offers free help with Homestead Refunds
If you are a senior, veteran, low-income or disabled homeowner, you might qualify 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.
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P.O.W.E.R program offers proactive help for juveniles | |
The Sedgwick County Department of Corrections is offering a series of classes to help juvenile offenders and other at-risk youth stay out of trouble and live a crime-free life. The P.O.W.E.R program, which stands for Providing Opportunities While Ending Recidivism, is voluntary and free, teaching young people how to make good choices. The video below explains how the classes work and who is eligible. If interested in the P.O.W.E.R. program, contact 316-660-5361 or www.sedgwickcounty.org/corrections/services-and-locations/juvenile-services/. | |
HHW expansion update
The windows are in, and the new Swap and Shop, inside the expanded Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facility at 801 Stillwell, has never looked brighter! Construction is still on track to finish in April. To learn more, visit Environmental Resources | Sedgwick County, Kansas and stay tuned for grand opening details!
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Chief HR Officer honored for career accomplishments
Congratulations to Sheena Schmutz for being recognized as a 2025 HR Professional by the Wichita Business Journal (WBJ)! The award honors Sheena and other industry leaders for navigating complex issues and advancing the Human Resources profession. Watch this video to learn more about Sheena and why she loves her job!
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Out and About with Commissioners | |
The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual luncheon where Chairman Victor Ojeleye shared the Chamber's vision for the business community in 2025. | |
Connect with Sedgwick County | | | | |
