Valley Center, Kansas – On Tuesday, city officials and neighbors gathered to discuss a proposed 1% sales tax that would fund a round‑the‑clock fire department for the community. The measure, which would raise the overall sales tax rate to 9.5%, is slated for a special election alongside other local ballot items.
Why the tax is being considered
Commissioner Ryan Baty, who represents Valley Center on the Sedgwick County Board, explained that the current fire service operates on a hybrid model. “For 12 hours of the day, full‑time staff, and the other 12 hours of the day, they are using part‑time and volunteers. That is, Valley Center is a hybrid department,” Baty said.
The city’s goal, according to officials, is to transition to a 24‑hour, fully staffed fire department. Proponents argue that a dedicated force would cut emergency response times and enhance public safety for families and businesses alike.
Community perspectives
Supporters at the meeting highlighted the potential life‑saving benefits. “This could improve the response time for emergencies, and that could make a big difference in our community,” said Katrina Hinds, a resident who voted in favor of the tax.
Opponents expressed fiscal concerns, noting that the tax would be permanent and lack an automatic sunset provision. “I think Sedgwick County will give the best fire protection to the residents, and I think the cost will be by far the best cost option for the residents,” said Brian Supernaw, who voted against the measure, emphasizing the county’s existing fire district as a viable alternative.
County’s stance
Regardless of the outcome, Sedgwick County officials say fire protection will improve. “No matter what, at the end of the day, whether it maintains Valley Center Fire and they are using property taxes and sales taxes to fund it, or they come into Sedgwick County Fire District One, fire response in the city of Valley Center is going to improve, is going to bolster,” Commissioner Baty affirmed.
If voters reject the tax, Valley Center would join Sedgwick County Fire District One, which already provides fire services to surrounding communities.
What’s at stake
The proposed tax does not include an automatic end date, meaning the additional revenue would continue indefinitely unless the city later amends the ordinance. The measure’s supporters argue that the long‑term investment is justified by the safety benefits, while opponents caution against permanent tax increases without clear sunset provisions.
City officials have posted detailed information about the proposal on the Valley Center website, encouraging residents to review the financial impact and the expected improvements to emergency services before casting their ballots.
How to vote
The special election will be held on the first Tuesday in November. Voters can cast their ballots at any designated polling location in Valley Center or use the county’s early‑voting options, which remain open through the weekend preceding Election Day.
Both sides agree that protecting lives and property is paramount; the debate now centers on the best way to fund that protection while balancing the community’s fiscal responsibilities.
Original reporting: KWCH 12 (Gray) – local — read the source article.
