Topeka Governing Body Meeting - March 18, 2026

The Topeka City Council held a regular meeting on March 18, 2026 (per instruction). Presentations covered preliminary 2025 financial results and a new Effective Utilities Management program. The council approved the consent agenda, a conditional use permit for a short-term rental, and modifications to the DREAMS program. A discussion on imposing real estate liens for unpaid utility bills drew public concerns and will return for a vote on May 5. Public comments also addressed a rezoning proposal on 25th Street. An executive session was held for legal advice; no action taken.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of a contract with SBB Engineering for professional engineering and design services not to exceed $212,240.
• Approval of the minutes of the March 10, 2026 governing body meeting.
• Motion passed with 9 affirmative votes.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Danielle Twemlow: Expressed concerns about readiness-to-serve fees and enforcement of contract terms for traffic control, citing specific examples where contractor materials were left out for extended periods. Suggested recouping funds by enforcing existing penalties.
• Pat Delap: Opposed the readiness-to-serve charge, arguing it is prohibited by Kansas statutes except for rural water districts. Criticized the consultant's report that led to the fee. Warned of potential legal liability under Kansas Consumer Protection Act.
• Tamika Terry: Opposed rezoning at 2450 SE 25th Street for a 24-unit development, citing lack of neighborhood notification, traffic safety concerns near Dornwood Park and daycare, and lack of clear plans.
• Rosetta Prawl: Opposed the same rezoning, stating the area already has many apartments and townhomes, and that existing developments are well-maintained. Concerned about increased congestion and trash.
• Dale Cushionberry: Opposed rezoning, stating the planning commission seemed to have made up its mind before hearing public comments. Noted that many seniors in the neighborhood lack internet access to attend remote meetings.
• Henry McClure: Criticized city spending on consultants and the hotel project, and questioned inconsistency in CID rates.

Discussion Items

• Preliminary 2025 Financial Results (Josh McInarney): General fund revenue exceeded budget due to sales tax coming in 1% higher, higher delinquent tax collections, and increased franchise fees from a cold snap. Expenses were under budget partly due to deferred transfers to the retirement reserve fund. Fund balance decreased from $37 million to $33 million. Projected further drawdown to $23.2 million if a project proceeds, still above the 15% minimum fund balance policy. City Manager noted the need to monitor expenses. Councilmember Hiller suggested considering a cash CIP fund instead of bonding to save on interest costs.
• Effective Utilities Management (EUM) Program (Sylvia Davis): Introduced a comprehensive performance framework endorsed by the EPA to assess water, stormwater, and wastewater utilities. A self-assessment was conducted with 50 staff. The program aims to align operations with strategic goals, increase transparency, and prioritize improvements. Council will receive the assessment to provide input. Goal is to develop a dashboard and annual report.
• CFO Hiring Update: In response to a question from Councilmember Valdivi-Alcala, City Manager stated the CFO position has been posted for about two weeks on multiple job sites and will be open for a few more weeks. If no qualified candidate is found, a recruiting firm may be engaged.
• Real Estate Liens for Unpaid Utility Bills (Sylvia Davis): 694 letters will be mailed for delinquent balances totaling $566,342. Accounts are at least 90 days delinquent, some dating back to January 2024. After posting, 63 accounts and $36,000 were resolved. A lien ordinance will be brought back for adoption on May 5. Councilmember Ortiz urged compassion and noted that payment plans are available. Councilmember Valdivi-Alcala stated she would not support the measure, citing concerns about the utilities department and equity. Councilmember Hiller asked about typical monthly charges (water base charge plus stormwater averaging $7.34/month).

Key Outcomes

• Consent agenda approved (9-0).
• Conditional Use Permit for 1200 SW Taylor approved (9-0).
• DREAMS program modifications approved (9-0).
• Discussion on utility liens: no vote; ordinance to be considered on May 5, 2026.

Announcements & Other Items

• Councilmember Kell: Encouraged unity and finding common ground, citing international sporting events.
• Deputy Mayor Hofer: Announced a Huntoon Street project plan review on March 25 at the library.
• Councilmember Hiller: Praised DREAMS program changes, successful Airbnb vote, and St. Patrick's Day parade logistics.
• Councilmember Ortiz: Requested drivers slow down on SE 6th Street due to construction.
• Councilmember Banks: Encouraged constituents to join in seeking improvements at Dornwood Park.
• Mayor Duncan: Announced budget survey on Topeka.gov, congratulated Hayden girls basketball state championship, noted 2,500 visitors for wrestling event, and celebrated Lowell Wendland's 100th birthday.