Governor names Larkin to help ensure fair taxation
Former legislator to serve on Kansas Board of Tax Appeals

Citing his dedication to public service and experience as a leader of the House Tax Committee, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed Bruce Larkin to the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals.

“Kansans expect fairness in the application of our tax laws and want to know that any disputes will be judged impartially,” Sebelius said. “Bruce has shown a deep commitment to serving the people of Kansas, which coupled with his knowledge of tax law, will help him serve our state well in this new role.”

The three-member State Board of Tax Appeals ensures all property is assessed in an equal and uniform manner in accordance with the Constitution and state statutes. 

The board also resolves disputes regarding tax issues between various taxing authorities and taxpayers, as well as correcting tax inequities, reviewing grievances resulting from clerical errors and determining if property designated to be exempt by local units of government qualifies for exemption.  It also authorizes taxing subdivisions to exceed current budget limitations or issue no-fund warrants.

Larkin, Topeka, graduated from Washburn University in 1973.  In 1977, he and his wife, Judy, returned to the family farm in Nemaha County, which they maintain to this day.

Larkin began his public service as a member of the U.S.D. 451 Board of Education in 1978, serving on the board until 1986 when he was elected to the 62nd District of the Kansas House of Representatives.  

Throughout his 19 years in the House, he served 13 years on the on the Tax Committee, including nine years as ranking minority member. He was also a member of the Agricultural Use Value Committee.  Larkin retired from the House in 2005 to work as an appeals administrator at the Kansas Department of Revenue.  Currently, Larkin continues at that agency as a legislative liaison.

The Larkins have three children: Robert, Michael and Tracy, and seven grandchildren.

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