SALINA, KANSAS — After recent discussion regarding Salina’s mill levy and comparisons to similar communities, city leaders have offered additional comments about how the issue was communicated to the public.
During a prior commission meeting, Commissioner Mike Hoppock presented data on Salina’s tax rate and its position among comparable Kansas cities and counties. Following that presentation, Salina311 reported the information in detail, including updated mill levy numbers and surrounding context. The article also addressed public claims that taxes are driving residents away, noting that population and housing indicators did not support that narrative.
At the most recent commission meeting, Hoppock acknowledged the coverage publicly:
“Two weeks ago, I shared information about the mill levy calculation and how Salina compares to other similar counties and cities. I want to thank Salina311 for doing an excellent job covering that information and sharing it with the public. At the same time, I’m very disappointed that other outlets such as KSAL, the Salina Post, and the Salina Journal did not pick it up. This is information the public needs to know, and when we as a governing body become frustrated with the level of public understanding, this type of coverage — or lack of it — is part of the reason.”
In addition, Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz separately commented to Salina311, stating:
“I greatly appreciate the accurate and thorough coverage Salina311 provides.”
The City Commission continues to emphasize tax transparency as a key priority as fiscal year 2026 planning remains underway. More financial updates and comparative data are expected to be shared publicly at future meetings.