A city staff member briefed the Leavenworth City Commission on Dec. 18 about the League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM) legislative priorities for the upcoming state session, emphasizing threats to local "home rule," potential changes to sales tax exemptions and concerns around housing and mental-health resources.

The presenter said LKM provided a long policy list but identified seven top priorities; staff highlighted four most relevant to Leavenworth: home rule protection, sales-tax exemptions for groceries, housing and homelessness supports, and mental-health funding. "Sales tax exemptions'... early numbers calculated up to a million dollars a year in lost revenue for the city of Leavenworth," the presenter said, adding that any statewide change that removes local taxing authority would be of particular concern.

Staff said they are already scheduling meetings with state representatives and their staff and will bring requests for letters of support or opposition to the commission as agenda items when appropriate. The presenter also said the city will soon hire an assistant to the city manager whose duties will include tracking the legislative session and providing updates to the commission.

On housing and homelessness, staff recommended focusing incentives and tax credits on the types of housing that would increase family residency rather than senior-only projects. "If we incentivize senior housing that is going to bring seniors in from the metro area... that doesn't really solve our housing problem," the presenter said, noting that the city wants homes that would enroll children in USD 453.

Mental health and homelessness were described as regional problems that require state resources and coordination with regional agencies. Staff said the city has already discussed regional opportunities with the Mid-America Regional Council and is prepared to participate in programs that would bring resources to the city.

Commissioners discussed bringing back a "State of the City"-style event before the next budget cycle to present accomplishments and outlook. Staff committed to frequent weekly updates and more structured reports as legislative items arise.

The presentation was informational. No formal commission votes were taken on legislative positions during the session; staff will return with specific recommendations if bills emerge that the city should support or oppose.