Johnson County commissioners vote to put quarter-cent public safety sales tax renewal on November ballot

Johnson County commissioners voted 6–1 on May 8 to place a proposed quarter-cent Public Safety 3 countywide sales tax renewal on the Nov. 4, 2025, general election ballot. Commissioner John Myers moved the resolution; Commissioner Allen Brand seconded. The measure would renew the existing tax for a 10-year term beginning April 1, 2027, and the county said it expects the levy to generate about $35,000,000 annually if approved by voters.

The vote capped a session of public comment and debate that featured support from some residents and organized groups for public safety funding and sharp criticism from advocates who said the county should prioritize affordable housing. The proposal would continue sharing revenue with Johnson County cities pursuant to state law and allow the county to fund public safety needs including emergency medical services, 911/dispatch, ambulance replacement and operations, district attorney support, and other public-safety functions. Staff told commissioners the county plans an education effort before the November election.

County staff and supporters said the renewal is intended…