Community

Maize has many clubs and organizations for all ages. Please feel free to contact the City Administrator, Mayor or a Council Member if you would like additional information or assistance in locating clubs and organizations in our community.

CARING HEARTS

Operated through the Maize Lions Club

MAIZE FRIENDSHIP CLUB (EHU)

Maize Lions Club

MEN'S PRAYER BREAKFAST

• Everett Thayer

YOUNG AT HEARTS

• Vicki Shepard

The City of Maize is proud to share exciting progress in our ongoing strategic planning efforts.  Over the past several months, we've engaged our community through a comprehensive survey and multiple focus groups to better understand the priorities, concerns and aspirations of our residents and stakeholders.

On April 18, 2025, City Council and City staff took a major step forward by holding a strategic planning work session.  This session, guided by WSU Public Policy and Management Center (PPMC), began the creation of a three-year road map that will guide the City from 2026 through 2028.  Using the feedback we received from the community, City leadership began drafting a refreshed Mission, Vision and Core Values that reflect our shared goals and renewed sense of purpose.

The planning process is not just about setting goals, it's about creating a vision that reflects the values of our community and lays a foundation for smart, sustainable progress.  We look forward to sharing more updates as the plan takes shape and will continue seeking input to ensure we're on the right path together.

Maize Community Engagement Themes Summary

Over the course of five weeks, between February 3 and March 6, 2025, the PPMC conducted five focus groups with community stakeholders representing knowledgeable, civic-minded boards, businesses, and organizations in Maize. A preliminary focus group also was conducted with the Maize City Council and staff leadership on December 14, 2024. The purpose of these meetings was to understand current trends and future priorities for the City of Maize and the Maize community overall. These trends and priorities then could be evaluated for development of the City's new Strategic Plan.

Included in this report are themes that emerged from the discussions. These themes are intended to inform decision makers of the broad concepts and ideas that were repeated throughout discussions and should be considered as the City of Maize considers development of an organizational mission, vision, and values statement and identifies goals and strategies in its upcoming strategic planning process.

Schools

The Maize community extends beyond the geographic boundaries of the City of Maize. The community's schools provide a high-quality K-12 education system and are a key factor in the growth and development Maize is experiencing, especially construction of new housing and increases in traffic. The public schools are seen as a driver of many factors impacting Maize. Even though some of their schools are located in the city limits of Wichita, all the Maize schools function as a community draw and influence other themes shared in focus groups.

Public Services

Existing public services and amenities are appreciated and well-received. Stakeholders take pride in Maize as a clean and safe community, backed by a visible city police department and county-provided fire and EMS services. Amenities, events, and activity options also received widespread appreciation, including the park and walking paths, fall festival and holiday event, and activity options provided by the Maize Recreation Commission.

Strong feedback across multiple stakeholder groups indicated that Maize should focus on development of additional public amenities, as well as supporting or incentivizing growth in private businesses that would be seen as community amenities.

Traffic & Transportation

Growth within the school district puts pressure on Maize's arterial road system, particularly 45th Street, 119th Street, Tyler, and Maize Road. Traffic is especially intense at the beginning and end of the school day. In addition to staff and student drivers, changes in busing in recent years have intensified congestion due to increased parent drop-offs and pick-ups.

• Traffic conditions along these corridors were discussed in several focus groups, with safety as a key concern.
• A strong desire for supplemental infrastructure was expressed, including sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, and accessible crosswalks to safely accommodate students who walk or bike to school. Pedestrian infrastructure also supports accessibility and recreational needs of the greater community.
• Public transportation or a bus system also were mentioned as potential considerations for the future.

Transportation also drives business, and there is a desire for the City to manage traffic conditions and visibility around business districts. This could include traffic calming measures along corridors to enhance visibility of businesses or efforts to draw additional traffic into non-corridor business areas such as the Academy Arts District.

Community & Identity

Many stakeholders celebrated Maize's small-town feel, pride, and sense of community. They want to see this amplified as the community grows. Community events, connections, and amenities help define the way people view and interact with Maize, and some concern was heard that this could be lost during rapid growth.

• Stakeholders expressed a desire for Maize to develop a strong local identity alongside the existing recognition of its public school system.
• There is a desire for Maize to overcome its lack of a traditional business district by establishing signature spaces and attractions that will support the current sense of community connectedness while also distinguishing Maize as a unique community beyond its current reach.
• Gateways, signage, or other visual identifiers could be part of a strategy to establish a distinction between Maize and Wichita and to cultivate additional community identity and pride.
• Community identity will continue to be developed in how people interact with both places and people within Maize. There is a high level of appreciation for existing events and activities in the community and a desire for leadership to continue to build on these traditions of success.

Public and Private Amenities

Stakeholders were complimentary of current place-based efforts in Maize, such as the Academy Arts District and local businesses, as well as existing public amenities and activities. Once again, the desire is for the City to build on success in its future development decisions regarding both public amenities and private business incentives.

• Public amenity discussion focused on the needs of a young and active community. This includes park land, sidewalk and trail systems, a library, a swimming pool, and expanded recreation space to accommodate growing needs for youth-focused activities and programming, as well as the recreational and connectional needs of all Maize residents.
• Stakeholders expressed a desire for Maize children and youth to remain engaged in constructive activities and have access to developmental opportunities.
• The Cathey property was mentioned as a potential location for development of community park and recreational spaces such as a community garden, dog park, recreation center, trails and walking paths, and green space.
• There is a recognition that Maize is in competition with Wichita and other cities for business development. Support was expressed for policy creation to keep Maize competitive so it can build its tax base in alignment with community desires.
• Stakeholders said the West side is very family oriented and emphasized a desire for family-oriented signature or destination developments, restaurants, entertainment options, or other anchor businesses that could provide community and connection, as well as fueling intentional growth within a community vision.

Sustainable Growth & Development

Recent years have brought accelerated growth and development in Maize, and stakeholders expressed a desire to see City leadership approach development proposals with intentionality and with long-term outcomes in mind.

• Maize's strong school system and sense of being a clean, safe community make it a desirable place for housing growth and development. The pace of housing growth prompts worry and a desire to look at intentionality in the types of developments approved.
• The overall pace of growth is putting pressure on public services and systems, including schools, roads, infrastructure, and community amenities.
• There is a desire for strong, future-focused land use policy that considers how to balance growth and optimize uses for the benefit of the community and revenue generation.
• Community members are aware that public infrastructure and services are impacted by the rapid pace of growth. They expressed a desire to balance the need for continued investment in core services and the challenges of a growing property tax burden.
• Those familiar with the 2019 Comprehensive Plan encouraged the City to review and update its plan to help effectively guide the City's ongoing decisions about growth and investment. There is a sense of urgency that decisions made today, particularly regarding development and land use, will affect the community's long-term trajectory.
• The accelerated pace of housing growth, and prominence of duplex and multi-family units within these new builds, concerns many community members. Some of their stated concerns include the following:
  • Multi-family and rental housing are seen as less well-maintained throughout the life of the housing unit.
  • Stakeholders desire to also see senior housing and other affordable long-term options that allow community members to age in place while securing housing options that fit their needs and stage of life.
  • Density in housing development puts pressure on school, recreation, and other systems.
  • A focus on housing development does not build the local property tax base in the same way that commercial land uses might.
• Stakeholders expressed a desire for incentives to be targeted toward businesses that will cultivate and enhance a sense of Maize as a distinct community with strong social connections and a high quality of life. In addition to continuing to bring commercial businesses and employers to Maize, stakeholders frequently mentioned a desire for a local grocery store or supermarket, a clean and quality service station, and family-friendly sit-down restaurants such as a local brewery or restaurant/entertainment concept.

Related Topics

• 2025 Influencing Factors Report
• 2025 Community Survey Report
• 1% Sales Tax Proposal

Maize Bulk Waste Coupons

A Bulk Waste Coupon is available to all residents of the City of Maize (limit one coupon per household).  Coupons expire October 31, 2025.  To get your coupon, come into Maize City Hall with proof of residency.

1% Sales Tax Proposal

The Maize City Council approved a resolution on March 24, 2025 to place a 1% citywide retailers’ sales tax on the ballot for the August 5, 2025 Primary Election. If approved, this sales tax would be in effect for 10 years, from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2035. Click here to learn more

Maize Farm and Art Market

Mark your calendars — the Maize Farm and Art Market returns for another great season of handmade goods, local art, and community fun

2025 Market Dates:

• May 8th
• June 12th
• July 10th
• August 14th
• September 11th

Join us each month in Maize — we can’t wait to see you there! Stay tuned for vendor details and special activities happening throughout the season. Interested in registering as a vendor? Sign up here to participate.

City of Maize Updates

From the City Manager - May 2025

The City of Maize is buzzing with activity this season!  We've welcomed new staff members, enhanced our community engagement efforts and remain focused on delivering the high level of service our residents expect and deserve.  We're also exploring responsible ways to encourage future development while maintaining the character and quality of life that make Maize such a special place to live.

We ended last year with 240 new housing permits and are already on pace for another strong year, with 60 permits issued as of May 1st.  With this growth comes challenges - especially in infrastructure and traffic management.  Several housing developments are currently in progress and we're working diligently to ensure our city is ready to meet rising demands maintaining safety and quality of life.

We're also deepening our commitment to transparency and communication.  From live streaming City Council meetings to launching a new website this Fall, we're taking meaningful steps to keep you informed and involved.  You can subscribe to our live stream on YouTube @CityofMaizeKS to follow regular meetings and discussions.

Preparing for the Future: Citywide Sales Tax Proposal

As Maize continues to grow, so do the needs and expectations of our residents.  To help meet our infrastructure demands, the Maize City Council has placed a 1% citywide sales tax proposal on the ballot for the August 5, 2025 primary election.  The initiative reflects a balanced approach to infrastructure funding - one that ensures everyone who uses our roads, including commuters and shoppers, share in the cost through local purchases.

Residential Development Project Updates

Maize is experiencing record residential growth.  Below is a snapshot of current housing development activity across the city:

Heights at Maize

• Status: Streets, water and sewer are complete.  Lots are actively being sold.

119th Street Addition (Oakmont Addition)

• Status: Phase II improvements have been bid. Construction on streets, water and storm sewer to begin late spring.

Nicks 3rd Addition (Long Beach Addition)

• Status: Phase II infrastructure is complete. Lots are actively being sold.

Addis Woods (SE Corner of 45th and Tyler - newly annexed)

• Size: 46 single-family lots, homes above $500,000.
• Status: Awaiting petitions for streets, water and sewer.

Coves 2nd

• Status: Streets, water and sewer are complete.  Lots are actively being sold.

Eagles Nest 2nd Phase 4

• Status: Final infrastructure completed.  Lots in the final phase are now selling.

Eagle View Estates (1/2 mile west of Maize Rd, south side of 53rd)

• Size: 48 residential lots + 1 lot for upscale storage units
• Status: Storage units under construction.  Awaiting petitions for residential infrastructure.

Woodard 2nd Phase 1 (Henwick Addition) (1/4 mile east of Maize on 45th)

• Size: 50 single-family homes, homes above $500,000
• Status: Street installation concluded.  Lots are actively being sold and built upon.

Thank you for being part of Maize's continued progress.  Your voice, your involvement and your pride in our City help shape everything we do.

• Nick Gregory
• City Manager

The Budget & Property Taxes in Maize

Have you ever wondered about the property taxes you pay in Maize and how the Mill Levy effects them? We have created a page to show you where the property taxes you pay go and how changes to the Mill Levy effects them. While no one likes paying taxes, property taxes are the primary source of funding of government entities such as the city, county, fire district, school district and others.  These funds are ultimately reinvested back into the community to provide infrastructure improvements and the service you expect.

Visit our Property Taxes in Maize and how the Mill Levy effects them page to learn more.

Community Calendar

The proposed sales would focus revenue towards the following uses:

• 85% Street and Sidewalk Infrastructure

Maintenance, repairs, improvements, and associated drainage projects.

• 15% Property Tax Relief

Specifically designated to help reduce pressure of property taxes for residents.

The proposal is rooted in community feedback gathered through a recent survey and focus groups:

• 97% say Maize is safe, and 93% value our school district.
• 83% feel Maize is well-maintained.
• 86% expect to stay in Maize for at least the next five years.

When asked about infrastructure priorities, over 80% of respondents supported widening 119th and modernizing Tyler Road.

When it came to funding options, 68% favored a 1-cent sales tax as the most reasonable path forward.

Residents want investment—but they want it to be measured and responsible.

Key Proposed Projects include:

• 119th Street (29th to 45th) Widening, Signalized Intersection & Sidewalk - $12 million
• 45th & Tyler Corridor Traffic Flow Enhancements - $28 million
• Other essential neighborhood street & sidewalk projects - $1 million

Unlike property taxes, a sales tax is shared by everyone who uses Maize’s infrastructure—residents, visitors, commuters, and shoppers.

In fact, 86% of shoppers at Maize’s largest retailers live outside the city limits. This means a significant portion of sales tax revenue would come from non-residents, helping maintain roads without overburdening Maize homeowners.

We’ve also heard your concerns about rising property taxes. That’s why 15% of the sales tax revenue will directly support property tax relief, helping reduce future increases while still investing in much-needed infrastructure improvements.

Without this sales tax, future street and drainage projects would likely require higher property taxes or be delayed due to lack of funding.

A balance of our revenue source funding approach will helps keep Maize affordable for homeowners.

Below is the exact wording voters will see on the ballot: 

Shall the City of Maize, Kansas be authorized to levy a one percent (1.0%) City-wide retailers' sales tax, with (1) 85% of such tax to be applied to pay the costs of maintenance, repair and improvements to streets and sidewalks and any related drainage improvements in the City, (2) 15% of such tax to be applied to reduce ad valorem property taxes in the City, and with collection of such sales tax to commence on January  1, 2026, and to expire on December 31, 2036?

• A “Yes” vote supports the proposed 1% sales tax.
• A “No” vote opposes the sales tax.

If you are a registered voter living within the Maize city limits, this question will appear on your primary election ballot.

Election Timeline:

• July 15, 2025 – Last day to register or update your voter registration information.
• July 16, 2025 – Advance Voting by mail begins.
• July 21, 2025 – Advance in-person voting begins at Sedgwick County Election Office (8 AM – 5 PM)
• July 31, 2025 – Advance in-person voting begins at all satellite locations. You are able to vote at any satellite location during advance voting. (10am-6pm)

August 5, 2025 – 2025 Primary Election! Polls are open from 7:00am-7:00pm. You must vote at your assigned polling location. 
Not sure if you're registered? Want to vote early or by mail? Check out Maize Sales Tax Election | Sedgwick County, Kansas to get all the info you need.

Related Topics:

• Strategic Planning:  Shaping the Future of Maize
• Sales Tax Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)