On the ballot in the Nov. 4, 2025, general election
McPHERSON COUNTY, Kan. — McPherson County voters will see a proposal on the November 4 ballot for a ½ cent (0.5%) county-wide sales tax dedicated to funding Emergency Medical Services (EMS). If approved, the tax would begin April 1, 2026. The measure seeks to shift EMS funding from property taxes to a dedicated sales tax, creating the opportunity for county and city officials to reduce property taxes beginning in 2027.
Currently, EMS is funded primarily through property tax revenues, which places heavy reliance on local property owners. Under the proposed change, anyone making taxable purchases in McPherson County—including visitors and non-residents—would share the cost, broadening the funding base.
The sales tax is projected to generate about $4 million annually to support EMS across the county. The distribution would be:
- McPherson EMS: 49%
- Lindsborg EMS: 18%
- Moundridge EMS: 15%
- Rural Fire District 1 (Canton): 10%
- Rural Fire District 2 (Marquette): 8%
The tax would remain in place for five years starting April 1, 2026.
If the measure does not pass, EMS services will continue to be funded through property taxes, as they are today.
The EMS sales tax measure will appear on the ballot in the Tuesday, November 4, 2025, general election. All registered voters who live in McPherson County will be eligible to vote.
Early voting is available at the McPherson County Courthouse, 122 W. Marlin in McPherson, beginning Wednesday, October 15, through Monday, November 3 from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ending at 12:00 p.m. on Nov. 3). On Election Day, Tuesday, November 4, voters can cast their ballot at their assigned precinct locations from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Learn more: https://www.mcpcity.com/903/2025-EMS-half-cent-sales-tax-ballot-ques
