Marina
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly officially kicked off “The People’s Budget Tour” on Thursday evening in Salina, marking the first stop of an eight-city listening tour across the state.
The initiative aims to gather public input ahead of the 2026 legislative session, ensuring that Kansans’ voices play a direct role in shaping the state’s next budget.
During the event, Gov. Kelly emphasized her commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, noting that this tour will help identify priorities and challenges that Kansans face daily — from public education and infrastructure to local government efficiency.
What Is “The People’s Budget Tour”?
“The People’s Budget Tour” is a statewide initiative designed to involve Kansans directly in state budget planning.
The tour provides residents an opportunity to share feedback, raise local concerns, and discuss how state funds should be allocated.
Gov. Kelly stated that her administration is focusing on ensuring the next budget reflects community needs, particularly in education, public safety, and local services.
By meeting citizens in person, the governor hopes to foster greater trust and transparency in the budgeting process.
Key Highlights from the Salina Kickoff
At the Salina event, Gov. Kelly addressed a crowd of residents and local officials, discussing her administration’s priorities while taking live questions from attendees.
Several key issues were raised:
- Tag office delays: Citizens voiced frustration over long wait times for tag and plate renewals. Kelly acknowledged that this is a widespread issue and promised to work with state agencies to identify solutions.
- Public education funding: Teachers and parents asked about future funding plans for schools, emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality education across Kansas.
- Support for the arts and community programs: Many attendees advocated for continued investment in local arts and cultural initiatives.
The governor assured participants that each concern would be reviewed by her team and included in discussions leading up to the 2026 budget draft.
Tour Schedule and Upcoming Stops
| Date | City | Venue/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Oct. 9, 2025 | Salina | Kickoff event |
| Oct. 29, 2025 | Hays | Second stop on the tour |
| Nov. 3, 2025 | Kansas City, KS | Public listening session |
| Nov. 5, 2025 | Leawood | Community roundtable |
| Nov. 6, 2025 | Emporia | Open forum |
| Nov. 10, 2025 | Pittsburg | Town hall event |
| Nov. 12, 2025 | Wichita | Closing session |
Each event will allow Kansans to ask questions, share concerns, and discuss how state funds should be managed. Doors open 15 minutes before the start time, and entry is first-come, first-served.
What Kansans Are Saying
Local residents at the Salina event expressed appreciation for the governor’s effort to hear their concerns firsthand. Many attendees praised the interactive town hall format, saying it gave them a genuine opportunity to share feedback on state operations.
For others, the event served as a chance to push for reforms, such as streamlining government services and addressing rural economic challenges. Kelly’s personal engagement and openness to questions were seen as positive signs of a more inclusive budgeting process.
Gov. Laura Kelly’s “People’s Budget Tour” is a significant step toward creating a more transparent and citizen-driven budget process in Kansas.
Starting in Salina, the tour invites communities across the state to engage in meaningful dialogue about how tax dollars are spent.
By traveling directly to cities like Hays, Pittsburg, and Wichita, Kelly aims to build a budget for the people — shaped by the people.
The kickoff event in Salina has set the tone for an open, collaborative effort that could redefine how Kansas listens, plans, and invests in its future.