Every day, Wichita’s city government makes decisions about a litany of topics: public safety, parks and green space, and zoning rules, to name a few. So how can you make sure your voice is heard on these matters? The Wichita Beacon created this guide to watching, attending and participating in city government meetings. Where to […]
city council
Posted inCivic Engagement
Kansas City is redrawing its City Council districts. Here’s what that means for you.
For Kansas City, Missouri, the deadline to redraw City Council districts is fast approaching. Officials have until Dec. 31 to establish new districts, according to the city charter.
Posted inLocal Government
Most local Wichita elections see single-digit turnouts. What made 2021 so different?
At Riverside Christian Church on the morning of Nov. 2, the line to vote stretched almost out the door. The parking lot buzzed with cars bringing voters to exercise their civic duty. On the ballot: not a president, state representatives or senators, nor even a mayor. Just three Wichita City Council races and four Wichita Board of […]
Posted inEducation, Local Government
Young people are some of the least likely to vote. These young Wichitans are working to change that.
Dione Ramos didn’t think her first time voting would be special. She certainly didn’t expect a live band, a DJ blaring Ariana Grande and Camila Cabello, free tacos and recognition of first-time voters. But that’s what Vote Mob provided on Oct. 26. The annual celebration of voting is organized by local youth-led civic engagement group […]
Posted inCivic Engagement, DIY Democracy, Local Government, Watchdog
How to cast your ballot in Wichita school board, city council races
Voters are already trickling into the Sedgwick County Election Office to cast their ballots. Early voting runs through Nov. 1 and Election Day is Nov. 2. Ready to exercise your right to vote? Here’s a nonpartisan guide to make it as easy as possible. I’m an in-person voter in Sedgwick County. What do I need? […]
Posted inLocal Government
Your pressing questions for Wichita City Council candidates answered ahead of the Nov. 2 election
This fall, six candidates are vying for three seats on the Wichita City Council. In District 3, incumbent Jared Cerullo faces Mike Hoheisel, while District 6 incumbent Cindy Claycomb is running against Maggie Ballard. The challengers in both races received the most votes in their Aug. 3 primaries. In District 1, incumbent Brandon Johnson contends […]