Wichita mayor Brandon Whipple is expecting cuts in programs and services because of the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus.
City council members began talks this week on the 2021 budget. At his regular city hall news conference Thursday, the mayor said the city is facing a shortfall of $12 million this year and $16 million for next year. He said the city is in a better position than most cities to handle the downturn, but “there are no good decisions right now when it comes to balancing our budget,” there are just fewer bad decisions.
Mayor Whipple said the city has had good budget practices and has maintained a reserve in past years, and the city has a good bond rating. He said the council is dedicated to keeping the city moving forward, and he is urging citizens to contact city council members to provide input.
Whipple said there are programs and services that have value, and it will hurt to make cuts, but the city will have to maintain a balanced budget.
