On January 14, 2026, the Wichita City Council voted 5-2 to proceed with a March 3 sales tax election despite new information about increased costs and polling disruptions. The special meeting, called by Mayor Lily Wu, featured passionate testimony from 22 speakers about the proposed $850 million, 7-year sales tax. Election Commissioner Laura Rainwater revealed 26,000 voters would face polling place changes, raising the election cost to $170,000 versus $0 for August or November. Council members cited urgent needs for fire stations and homeless services, while opponents demanded more time for guardrails and public education.