MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson’s proposed 2027 budget would maintain the city’s property tax rate while increasing investments in streets, infrastructure and other municipal services.
The proposed budget keeps the city’s mill levy at 42.096 mills. Although the rate would remain unchanged, the amount paid by individual property owners could increase if their assessed property values rise.
City officials project approximately $49 million in General Fund revenue and $47.6 million in expenditures. The city expects the General Fund’s cash balance to begin recovering in 2027 after several years in which projected spending exceeded revenue.
The budget incorporates revenue from the additional three-quarter-cent city sales tax approved by voters in March. That money will support streets, parks and stormwater improvements while replacing the monthly stormwater utility fee.
Approximately $3.7 million is proposed for the city’s 2027 street maintenance program, up from $2.95 million in 2026. Work would include arterial, collector and residential street surfacing, crack sealing, pavement markings and accessibility improvements.
The proposal also includes water and sewer infrastructure projects, funding for economic development and adjustments to city staffing. Water and sewer rates will increase under a multiyear rate plan previously approved by the City Council.
City officials said the additional sales tax improves Hutchinson’s financial outlook, but the city must continue monitoring expenditures and rebuilding its General Fund reserves.
A public hearing on the proposed budget will be held during the Hutchinson City Council meeting Tuesday, Sept. 1. Members of the public may attend and provide comments before the council considers final adoption.
You can see a copy of the proposed 2027 budget on the city's website.