Keep Healthcare in Stanton County - Vote "YES" for Stanton County Hospital.
Understanding the Proposed Sales Tax
On November 3, Stanton County voters will have the opportunity to vote on a proposed countywide retailers' sales tax that would help provide continued local funding for Stanton County Hospital after the current mill levy expires on December 31, 2026.
Beginning January 1, 2027, the hospital’s local mill levy funding will decrease from 17 mills to 6 mills. While the remaining 6 mills will continue to provide important support, it is not enough to sustain the current level of hospital operations and services our community relies on.
The proposed 1% countywide retailers' sales tax would help bridge the funding gap created by the reduction from 17 mills to 6 mills, allowing Stanton County Hospital to continue providing essential healthcare services locally while maintaining financial stability for the future.
What is on the Ballot?
Shall the Board impose a countywide retailers’ sales tax of one percent (1.00%) beginning January 1, 2027 (or, if the Kansas Director of Taxation does not begin collecting such tax until after January 1, 2027, then beginning ten (10) years from the date the Kansas Director of Taxation actually begins collecting such tax), for the purpose of financing the provision of healthcare services in Stanton County, Kansas, and pledge the revenue from such tax exclusively for use by the Stanton County Hospital?
Comparing the Funding Options
The current 17-mill property tax levy supporting Stanton County Hospital expires on December 31, 2026. Community members have asked why a countywide sales tax is being proposed rather than requesting another property tax levy.
The comparison below summarizes some of the differences between the two funding methods. It is intended to help explain how each option works and how the funding responsibility is shared.
Key Takeaway: A sales tax distributes the cost among everyone who makes purchases in Stanton County, while a mill levy is paid only by property owners. The graphic above compares additional characteristics of each funding method.
Why is Additional Funding Needed?
The current 17-mill levy supporting Stanton County Hospital expires on December 31, 2026. The future 6 mills resolution will take place for calendar years 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030, and 2031.
The proposed sales tax would provide an additional source of local funding to help offset the expiration of the mill levy while broadening the funding base by including everyone who makes purchases in Stanton County—not just property owners.
As a county-owned Critical Access Hospital, Stanton County Hospital relies on local tax support to help maintain healthcare services for our community.
What would happen without continued tax funding?
Without continued local tax support, the hospital would likely be forced to reduce services and could face long-term financial challenges that threaten its ability to continue operating.
Are Hospital Board meetings open to the public?
Yes. Hospital Board meetings are open to the public and are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. in the hospital conference room.
Did You Know?
- Stanton County Hospital has cared for Long-Term Care residents since 1976.
- Approximately half of our employees are Stanton County residents.
- The county bonds used for the hospital remodel are scheduled to be paid off in 2029.
Have Questions?
If you have questions about the proposed sales tax or hospital funding, please contact our Admin Team.
Phone: (620) 492-6250
You are also welcome to stop by the hospital to speak with a member of the Admin Team.