Local Election Forums
Notes by Maleah Evans
Five candidates for District 1 council provided their thoughts on how to address food deserts in the district, make housing more affordable, improve mental health access, and establish a relationship with nearby Wichita State University and future colleagues on the council.
Wichita Documenters provided two documenters to cover this forum in order to provide two perspectives.
Notes by Jeanette Harding
From housing to DEI, District 1 candidates clashed over priorities and leadership. Some blasted City Hall's direction, others focused on partnerships. All agreed that District 1 needs affordable homes, better services, and stronger representation. Primary election is scheduled for August 5, 2025.
Notes by Linda Shriver
The forum featured Sedgwick County Commission candidates Jeff Blubaugh and Sarah Lopez, with housing as the main topic. Both candidates discussed property taxes, homelessness, and Rural Housing Incentive District, RHID, offering different approaches to address these issues.
Notes by Debbie Haslam
Celeste Racette and Stephanie Wise discussed affordable housing, property taxes, and homelessness, with both supporting the Housing First program. Racette focused on her financial expertise and government collaboration, while Wise emphasized tax reform and real estate experience.