Wichita city leaders may have found a way to save home and business owners money. A plan is in the works that would shuffle city taxes around, giving property owners a break.
The plan is in its very early stages, and subject to a public vote. Officials say if it gets that far, property owners could save up to ten percent on their annual property taxes.
In its place, city leaders say they would add a one cent city-wide sales tax. The benefit, officials say, is that it would not just apply to shoppers who live and work in Wichita. Tourists and citizens visiting from outlying areas would also contribute to the city's tax revenues.
City council members say lower property taxes would help spur new business, and give struggling homeowners a break when it comes to mortgage payments.
They will begin reviewing the tax changes on Tuesday and say it will take
several weeks to iron out the details. If the plan meets the city council's
approval, it will go forward for a public vote. The earliest it would be on
the ballot is November.