February 2023
Property Values are Expected to Increase Again
Every year, just after March 1, I get quite a few angry calls when property taxpayers receive their annual appraisal notices from the county appraiser. Many wonder why their assessment jumps so much in one year. Understandably, their assumption is that when property values increase, property tax increases will follow. I understand the frustration.

Many people also assume that county commissioners tell the appraiser to raise those valuations. That would be unethical and is factually untrue.

Even though the county pays the salary of the appraiser and their staff, they do not report to the county. Instead, they are directed by the Property Valuation Division under the Kansas Department of Revenue. The duty of the appraiser is to determine a ‘fair market value’ of each property. Appraisers must follow state laws, as well as regulations directed by PVD. Furthermore, the PVD monitors county appraisers’ performance relevant to actual sales data to ensure they stay in statistical compliance.

My home value increased 28% in the last five years, which is 5% more than the rate of inflation over that same time frame. Because the housing market was so tight throughout 2022, I will not be surprised if it jumps another 8% this year. The question is, is this fair?
Contrary to popular opinion, the county appraiser has consistently under valuated most properties. As a homeowner, ask yourself - if you were to list your home on the real estate market, would you ask for more than the appraiser says your home is worth? If so, then perhaps your home is under-valuated, too.

Even though appraisals and budgets are two different things, most people confuse the two. I hear from many frustrated taxpayers when appraisal notices are received, but only a few people speak up when the budgets are being debated. Just because a property is worth more does not necessarily mean taxes will go up the same percentage. Whether or not taxes go up is mostly up to the elected officials when they pass a budget in August.

Please know the county collects property tax revenue for the city, state, and schools. When you examine your tax bill, notice as to how much you pay to each jurisdiction. Overall, the county keeps about 20% of your property taxes for county services.

One thing I have noticed is that very few people consider the breakdown of their tax bill. They do not know how much they are paying to the various jurisdictions. Please direct your frustration accordingly. And finally, as you get your notices this year, let me know if you want me to review it with you.
The views expressed by Commissioner Jim Howell in this newsletter do not necessarily represent the governing body of the Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners or Sedgwick County Government.
Property Valuation Notices Mailed in March
In March, property owners will receive their valuation notices in the mail. Sedgwick County Appraiser, Mark Clark, presented his annual report to the BoCC last week and explained why overall valuations increased. Click here to see that presentation. You can also watch the video below to learn how to appeal your appraisal, if you believe the amount is incorrect.
Sedgwick County commemorates Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, several Sedgwick County employees shared their life experiences on social media and in a video presentation to the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC). Commissioners also heard from the Executive Director of The Kansas African American Museum, Denise Sherman, about upcoming events at TKAM and future plans for expansion.
Emergency Management launches Civic Ready Alerts
Sedgwick County Emergency Management (SCEM) rolled out the first phase of a free service called Civic Ready Alerts. This notifies residents by phone or email of emergencies or important news in their community.

Initially, the public can sign up for notifications from only two test cities – Wichita and Mt. Hope, but eventually a dozen more cities across Sedgwick County are expected to participate.

Click https://buff.ly/3XmNXya to opt-in, customize how you want to be contacted and which notifications you want to receive!
Ribbon-Cutting Planned for Thunderbolt Sirens
Four of the world’s oldest Thunderbolt sirens still in service are right here in Sedgwick County and will go on permanent display, starting Saturday, March 4, 2023. A ribbon-cutting event at 10 a.m. will showcase one of the historic outdoor warning devices that is 70 years old, at Sedgwick County Fire Station (SCFD) 32, 7750 N. Wyandotte Way, Park City. The other three Thunderbolt sirens will be on display at SCFD Station 38, Wichita Fire Station 20 and on a traveling exhibit used by Sedgwick County Emergency Management (SCEM).
Sedgwick County needs YOU on an advisory board or committee!
The Board of County Commissioners values input from its citizens and encourages you to consider serving on an advisory board or committee in one of the five districts. To see a list of current vacancies, click here.
Out and About with Commissioners
Congratulations Integra Technologies Inc., the largest U.S. Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) company, on the announcement of its new combined headquarters and production facility in Bel Aire and training facility in Wichita. We are thrilled you have chosen to stay in Kansas and selected Sedgwick County to continue growing!
Spirit AeroSystems achieved quite a milestone as it marked the 100th delivery to Boeing of the forward fuselage for the KC-46 Pegasus. The air refueling tanker is built for the Air Force and is flown at McConnell Air Force Base.
In Topeka, the South-Central Legislative Delegation had an opportunity to meet with Commissioners. During the luncheon, they discussed our legislative platform and current bills in progress.
Upcoming events with Commissioner Howell:
District 5 Citizen's Advisory Board
  • Friday, March 3, 4 - 6 p.m.
  • Southeast High School Commons, 2641 S. 127th St. E., Wichita, 67216
Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee & soda provided.
  • Monday, March 13, 4-5:30 p.m.
  • Range 54, 5725 E Kellogg Dr., Wichita, 67218
Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee provided.
  • Friday, March 31, 7-9 a.m.
  • Calvary Baptist Church Gymnasium. Enter at the glass doors on east side at 1636 E. Patriot, Derby 67037
Come and go informal discussion on Sedgwick County issues with Commissioner Howell. Coffee and soda provided.
  • Tuesday, March 21, 7 -9 a.m.
  • The Grill, 222 N. 2nd Ave., Mulvane
Contact Commissioner Jim Howell
316-660-9300
100 N. Broadway, Ste. 660, Wichita, KS 67202