MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council has officially approved the next steps to implement a new city sales tax following voter approval in March.
During its April 7 meeting, council members adopted both an ordinance levying the 0.75% sales tax and a companion resolution outlining how the funds will be managed and spent.
The tax, approved by voters in the March 3 special election, will take effect October 1, 2026, and remain in place through September 30, 2036.
City officials estimate the measure will generate approximately $107 million over its 10-year duration. The approved framework establishes a dedicated sales tax fund and integrates the revenue into the city’s annual budget and capital improvement plan.
Funding priorities include infrastructure projects such as street maintenance, stormwater system improvements, and enhancements to local parks.
As part of the plan, the city will eliminate its existing stormwater utility fee once the sales tax goes into effect.
Council members also endorsed a hybrid pay-as-you-go financing model, meaning projects will primarily be funded with available revenue, while any necessary borrowing must be repaid before the tax expires.
The resolution also includes accountability measures, requiring annual public reporting to ensure transparency in how the funds are allocated and spent.