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I want to welcome our new Commission Chair, Jeff Blubaugh, and Pro Tem, Stephanie Wise. I worked closely with Jeff when we both were on the Wichita City Council, and I have a great deal of respect for his approach to governing, as well as our friendship.
Working this past year with Commissioner Wise, I have found her to be very intelligent and committed to the betterment of Sedgwick County government and citizens. She is a great asset to our Commission. I am looking forward to supporting their leadership in 2026.
As the legislative session picks up speed, I want to share a quick update on several bills I’m closely watching at the Kansas Statehouse that could have real impacts here in Sedgwick County. These proposals touch everything from property taxes to elections to economic development, so I think they’re worth keeping an eye on:
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SCR Bill 1616 – Proposes a constitutional amendment to cap annual property value increases at 3% and roll property values back to 2022 levels.
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Senate Bill 2503 – Would repeal the Mail Ballot Election Act.
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Senate Bill 2525 – Would prohibit the use of remote ballot boxes.
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House Bill 2289 – Would stagger renewal dates for personalized license plates to help prevent long lines at tag offices.
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Senate Bill 144 – Would invalidate restrictive covenants that limit or prohibit the installation of solar panels on residential properties.
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Senate Bill 319 – Proposes a property tax rebate for residential or commercial property that sells for less than 97% of the appraised value.
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House Bill 2406 – Would provide tax exemption eligibility for certain commercial and industrial machinery, including aviation equipment, that is currently ineligible because it was purchased on or before June 30, 2006.
I strongly encourage you to stay informed by following these bills. One great resource is the State Library of Kansas Legislative Hotline at 800-432-3924. Librarians are available to help with tracking bill status and history, understanding the legislative process, finding historical information, and answering questions related to state government. For a fee, you can also subscribe to the legislative tracking and reporting service, KanFocus.com.
I also want to extend an offer to share the weekly legislative update we receive from Sedgwick County’s lobbying group, Watkins Public Strategies. They do a great job keeping us informed, and if you’d like to receive the same update the commissioners get, just let us know and we’ll add you to the mailing list.
As always, thanks for staying involved and engaged.
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