(WICHITA, Kan.) — The crowd poured into the hallway. Every seat was filled. Once again city officials from Bel Aire lay out the options for Bel Aire residents. Cut services like fire, police or rec center or pay more taxes.
If no cuts are made, the city’s looking at up to a 20 mill increase. That would be about $300 on a $100,000 home.
The council has yet to make a decision, it is getting residents’ feedback.
Residents voiced opinions and most say they're willing to meet in the middle.
Almost every resident says they are not willing to give up Sedgwick County Fire protection.
By going with Wichita it would save money but would increase response times.
Residents are also fighting for is the recreation center. The city is considering closing it and selling the building.
The city is in financial rouble because of land debt. Years ago the city bought land to develop , but has yet to sell it. It has to make more than a million dollars in land debt payments next year. That’s more than a quarter of the small city’s budget.
