City compares property taxes

Fort Scott Director of Economic Development Dale Bunn is attempting to put a stop to property tax rumors.

A study complied by Bunn with information provided by the Kansas League of Municipalities has determined that Fort Scott does not have the highest property taxes in Kansas.

"Come to find out we are not the highest ... we're just average as far as cities our size," Bunn said.

In fact, Bunn's study included 13 cities with populations between 7,500 and 11,500 residents, in which Fort Scott sits in the middle. Fort Scott is ranked as the sixth lowest in property taxes levied by the city, and seventh lowest in total property tax levied. In addition, Fort Scott is the second lowest in total property taxes levied in cities which house a community college.

"There's something to be said for being in the middle," Bunn said.

Bunn said that a community could face consequences if it is ranked at either the high end or the low end.

"If you are the highest, it can be discouraging to the people in the community wanting to stay in the community may be pushed away," Bunn said. "The same goes for businesses."

Likewise, Bunn said a community sitting a the low end could face a loss in the amount and quality of services provided to the citizens such as infrastructure needs and safety needs.

According to Bunn, commissioners in Atchison decided they wanted to be among the lowest property tax levies in Kansas and were successful. However, this year Atchison has moved from one of the lowest to one of the highest because of infrastructure needs which were continually put off.

Bunn said he would be more than willing to visit with any one who has questions about his study. He may be contacted at City Hall by calling (620) 223-0550.

Rank by City Mill Levy

1. Lansing (10,680) -- 36.898

2. Andover (9,898) -- 37.910

3. Augusta (8,683) -- 39.552

4. Coffeyville (10,349) -- 39.800

5. Independence (9,277) -- 42.488

6. Fort Scott (7,915) -- 45.018

7. Parsons (11,122) -- 45.128

8. Chanute (8,854) -- 46.893

9. Haysville (10,193) -- 48.408

10. Wellington (7,812) -- 49.645

11. Winfield (11,539) -- 52.640

12. Atchison (10,078) -- 57.365

13. Arkansas City (11,168) -- 67.800

Data provided by the Kansas League of Municipalities.

Population is listed in parenthesis.