Voters are already trickling into the Sedgwick County Election Office to cast their ballots. Early voting runs through Nov. 1 and Election Day is Nov. 2.
Ready to exercise your right to vote? Here’s a nonpartisan guide to make it as easy as possible.
I’m an in-person voter in Sedgwick County. What do I need?
Bring a photo ID. Make sure to wash your hands before and after casting your vote. Carry hand sanitizer and a just-in-case mask, too.
Need a lift? On Election Day, Wichita Transit is also offering free bus rides on its traditional routes and paratransit service. All rides to and from polling locations (as well as any other trips) are free Nov. 2.
Can I still vote early in Sedgwick County?
If you’re reading this before noon on Nov. 1 — yes!
The Sedgwick County Election Office is open to voters Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Beginning Oct. 28, the following locations will open to early ballot-casters:
Wichita Early Voting Locations
- Grace Presbyterian Church, 5002 E. Douglas Ave.
- Machinists Building, 3830 S. Meridian Ave.
- Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church, 5701 E Mt. Vernon St.
- Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, 2727 E. 25th St. N
- Reformation Lutheran, 7601 E. 13th. St. N
- Sedgwick County Extension Office, 7001 W. 21st St. N
- SEIU Building, 3340 W. Douglas Ave.
- St. Andrews Lutheran, 2555 N Hyacinth Lane
- Westlink Church of Christ, 10025 W. Central Ave.
- Woodland Lakes Community Church, 770 S. Greenwich Road
Park City Early Voting Location
- Park City City Hall, 1941 E. 61st St. N
Bel Aire Early Voting Location
- Bel Aire City Building, 7651 E. Central Park
Haysville Early Voting Location
- Haysville Community Library, 210 Hays Ave.
Derby Early Voting Location
- Woodlawn Methodist Church, 431 S. Woodlawn Blvd.
Goddard Early Voting Location
- Goddard District Conference Center, 315 S Main
Valley Center Early Voting Location
- Valley Center Community Center, 314 E Clay St.
How do I vote absentee in Sedgwick County?
Kansas law allows voters to mail absentee ballots without providing a qualifying reason. However, the state requires voters to submit an application to receive the ballot. You’ll need a Kansas driver’s license or identification, or a photo ID.
Here’s the form for Sedgwick County. Print it, sign it, mail it. The deadline to apply for an advance ballot is one week before the election — Oct. 26.
Changed your mind after getting your absentee ballot? No worries. You can still choose to vote in-person.
Where can I drop off my advance ballot in Sedgwick County?
Sedgwick County has 14 dropboxes. Here’s a map to find one close to you.
How can I find my polling place in Sedgwick County?
Vote.org has a tool to find your nearest polling place. Just plug in your address. In case that link doesn’t work, here’s a similar tool from the Kansas Secretary of State.
Still having trouble? Text 316-347-7446 and watchdog reporter Stefania Lugli will help.
Have a question or concern about voting in Sedgwick County?
Early voting is underway ahead of Election Day on Nov. 2. Do you have a tip about something that could be a story? A question about voting? See something suspicious or have a problem at the polls? Text, call or leave a voicemail for watchdog reporter Stefania Lugli at 316-347-7446.
Who are the candidates for Wichita City Council and Wichita Board of Education?
Voters are deciding whether three incumbent City Council members will keep their seats. Celia Hack, The Beacon’s local government reporter, surveyed City Council candidates on questions important to our readers.
Candidate Myron Ackerman did not respond to The Beacon questionnaire.
Rafael Garcia, The Beacon’s education reporter, surveyed candidates running for four seats on the Wichita Board of Education. Candidates gave their thoughts on COVID practices, student engagement and diversity and inclusion training.
Candidates Diane Albert (District 1), Brent T. Davis (District 2), Kathy Bond (District 5) and Hazel Stabler (District 6) did not respond to The Beacon questionnaire.
You can also view a sample ballot with all 2021 candidates here.
What if I have a problem at the polls or with voting in Sedgwick County?
If you’re facing issues at your polling location, such as delays, lack of access for people with disabilities or voter intimidation, you can call the Election Protection Hotline: 866-OUR-VOTE.
Alternatively, you can text or call watchdog reporter Stefania Lugli at 316-347-7446. She’ll be on standby.
Take pride in that “I Voted” sticker. Stay safe!
This nonpartisan voter guide was reported, edited and fact checked by The Beacon.
The Beacon compiled information from the Kansas Secretary of State, Wichita Public Libraries and the Sedgwick County Election Office.
