HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson has provided the following updates to keep the community informed on what all is happening.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT AFTER THE SALES TAX VOTE
Hutchinson voters recently approved the City’s sales tax measure. With the election complete, the next step is implementing the change and transitioning away from the current stormwater fee.
In Kansas, newly approved local sales taxes are not collected immediately. The State requires a processing and implementation period before the tax can begin. For Hutchinson, the new sales tax will begin being collected in October 2026.
When the City receives the first collection of the new sales tax, the stormwater utility fee will be eliminated. This transition was part of the plan shared during community meetings and discussions leading up to the vote. The goal is to shift how certain services are funded while reducing the direct monthly fee residents currently see on their utility bill.
Over the coming months, City staff will work with the State of Kansas to finalize the implementation timeline and ensure the transition occurs smoothly. As the City prepares for the next budget cycle, residents will continue to receive updates about priorities, funding decisions, and the progress of the budget process.
Maintaining transparency and open communication with the community remains a priority as we move forward together.
BLOCK BY BLOCK INVESTMENT PROGRAM
The Block-by-Block Investment Program is helping neighbors work together to improve their homes and strengthen their neighborhoods.
Through the program, residents can collaborate with neighbors on exterior improvement projects such as repainting porches, planting landscaping, or replacing exterior doors. The City then provides a 50% rebate on qualifying exterior improvements, up to $1,500.
The program requires participation from at least three neighbors on the same block, encouraging community collaboration while helping improve the overall appearance of neighborhoods across Hutchinson.
Those interested in the program can download the application here. To learn more about the program, contact Denice Gilliland with Hutch Rec at (620) 663-6179 or [email protected].
PARTNERSHIP HIGHLIGHT: INTERFAITH HOUSING
Recently, the City of Hutchinson partnered with Interfaith Housing & Community Services on a sidewalk improvement near Avenue F and Elm Street.
Interfaith is building a new home on an empty lot in the neighborhood for a resident living with a disability. When they reached out about improving nearby sidewalk access, it aligned with sidewalk evaluations the City had already been conducting in the area.
Ward Davis completed the concrete work, helping repair and refresh the sidewalk to ensure safe access for the new home and for others in the neighborhood.
Projects like this highlight how collaboration between local organizations and the City can create meaningful improvements for residents and neighborhoods.
PUBLIC ART BRINGS PLAY TO BERNARD WHITE PARK
When Bernard White Park was recently improved through the City’s Capital Improvement Program, upgrades included new seating, a basketball area, and a metal pergola. Because the smaller park could not accommodate traditional playground equipment, the City’s 1% for Public Art funding helped create a unique alternative.
The Public Art and Design Council partnered with artist Michelle McCartney to design an interactive mural that encourages creativity and play for children visiting the park.
Council members and volunteers—including Jacelyn, Janice, Katie, and neighborhood residents—helped bring the mural to life. On several days, neighborhood kids even joined in to help paint portions of the artwork.
Thanks to the efforts of many community partners, Bernard White Park now features a colorful space that blends art, creativity, and play for the neighborhood.
You can watch the video here!
IRISH ROAD BOWLING COMING TO HUTCHINSON
A centuries-old Irish sport is making its way to Hutchinson this weekend!
Irish Road Bowling, hosted by the Fr. Sean O’Shea Hibernians of Hutchinson, challenges teams to throw an iron “bullet” down a closed road course—the fewest throws wins.
Saturday, March 14
9:00 a.m. start
Carey Park – 1-mile loop course
Teams of 1–4 players can register for $40 per team. Whether you’re competing or just cheering from the sidelines, this one-of-a-kind event promises plenty of fun.
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/
