Good morning, Olathe.

Olathe Public Schools and the city council will vote on their 2026 budgets next week—this follows an 8% county property tax increase that may lead to higher bills for residents.

The vote will address the tax breakdown, with city taxes at 20%, county taxes at 18%, and school taxes at 53% of the annual property tax bill.

The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners approved a 2026 budget of $1.9 billion to maintain essential services and keep property taxes low after public meetings in June and a hearing on August 20.

County Manager Penny Postoak Ferguson said the budget supports vulnerable groups and uses creative funding to adjust new positions—ensuring quality services despite financial challenges.

On Thursday, the board of county commissioners set aside nearly $800,000 in HOME-ARP funds for five nonprofits to help locals with rent, utility, and transportation costs—Catholic Charities received $80,000, SafeHome received $74,600, Metro Lutheran Ministry received $385,000, restart, Inc. received $50,000, and Johnson County Aging and Human Services received $201,873; the funds can be used immediately and must be spent by Dec. 31.

County commissioners approved a $1.9 billion 2026 budget that will raise property tax bills by 6.5% as rising home prices push up values, so a home appraised at $500,000 last year will now be valued around $533,000 with taxes increasing by about $91.56.

The budget sets stable mill levies for county, park and library districts and establishes separate budgets for three fire districts—officials plan to study cost efficiencies amid rising demand.

Kids Night Out at Olathe Family YMCA

5-8 p.m. — Olathe Family YMCA — Cost varies — Enjoy a night off while kids partake in games, crafts, and swimming with a monthly theme.

Olathe North vs. Rockhurst Football Game

7-9 p.m. — Olathe North High School — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting non-conference football clash between Olathe North and Rockhurst.

Library Lets Loose

12 AM – 10 PM — Johnson County Library - Central Resource — Ticketed event — Celebrate the Freedom to Read with delicious drinks, food, conversation, games, and dancing.

ASL-for-All 5K Walk, Run & Roll

8:30-9:45 a.m. — Frontier Park — Donations encouraged — Celebrate and support a shared signing community for Deaf and non-Deaf individuals.