KANSAS VOTERS SPLIT ON SCHOOL BONDS, SALES TAXES IN TUESDAY ELECTIONS

MCPHERSON, Kan. — Voters across central and south-central Kansas decided on school bonds and sales tax measures in five communities Tuesday, approving three and rejecting two.

In McPherson, USD 418 voters approved both questions of an $89.5 million bond to replace the hex section of McPherson High School and convert Eisenhower Elementary into a new middle school, with Question 1 passing 63.5% and Question 2 passing 60.2%. Newton USD 373 voters approved a $50 million bond to fund roofing, HVAC and security upgrades across the district with 64.3% of the vote. Wellington USD 353 voters narrowly rejected a $17.85 million bond for renovations at the high school, middle school, elementary schools and Sumner Co. Academy, falling short by just 26 votes.

In sales tax elections, Hutchinson voters narrowly approved a 0.75% city sales tax for operations and improvements through 2036 with 51.7% of the vote. Wichita voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposed 1% citywide sales tax that would have generated an estimated $850 million over seven years for public safety, homeless services, property tax relief and the Century II convention center, with 81.8% voting against the measure.

All results are unofficial until canvassing is complete.

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