Geary County Commisioners hosted a discussion Monday with area state legislators at the County Office Building. The conversation occurred just weeks ahead of the 2026 Kansas legislative session.
Property tax levy, the budget revenue netral rate, population and quality of of life were some of the topics of discussion. State Senator Mike Argabright noted that most of their constituents "get hung up on the mill levy." But paying attention to the dollars rather than the levy helps to understand a little bit.
When evaluation go up taxes are raised twice, leading to frustration. State Representative Shawn Chauncey noted that the population is not growing and the quality of life is not getting better statewide.
Retaining more military service members in Kansas was a topic along with helping their spuses find employment without being discriminatory also received attention from the legislators.
State Representative Nate Butler noted that he would be surprised if no tax bill is passed in the 2026 session.
There is an effort to form a local government caucus in the House and Senate, which would include members who have served in local government. That was viewed as a good idea during Monday's discussion and as a good filter.
The legislators received updates on the recent Geary County delinquent property tax sale and a possible shortage of lawyers in Junction City. They also met with county department heads.