Public Meetings - Topeka, Kansas

The Save Topeka Planning Commission held a regular meeting on October 21, 2025, to review several zoning and development items, including subdivisions, a convenience store PUD, a Habitat for Humanity residential project, a TIF district, and a proposed zoning amendment for duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes. The meeting included public hearings and testimony on several items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the September 2025 meeting were approved unanimously (8-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Misty Harbor Estates Subdivision: Larry Russell (resident on Misty Harbor Ave) opposed the project due to concerns over property tax increases from higher-value homes, loss of view, and unfulfilled promises of a park and walking trail. - Quick Trip 282 PUD: Multiple residents spoke in opposition. Alan Henderson (Atwood Ave) questioned traffic study accuracy, citing potential shortcut traffic. Tom Bauman (Atwood duplex owner) worried about headlights and noise from 24/7 operation on the driveway near his units. Julie O'Dell (Lydia Ave) and Fred Cooper (Huntington Condominium) cited traffic congestion, light, noise, and property value concerns. Jeanette Wilson and another speaker highlighted 24-hour lighting affecting sleep, pedestrian safety, and existing congestion. Most speakers urged denial or further study. - North Topeka Townhomes PUD Amendment: Daniel Smith (Eugene St) opposed, mentioning past failed townhome development, drain water issues, and concerns about lot size and future decline. John Cabus (Shorey Ct) supported Habitat for Humanity but asked for deed restrictions and larger lots. Lance T. (Eugene St) expressed support for Habitat's mission but opposed the density and lot sizes, fearing property tax increases and traffic; recommended reducing the number of homes. Discussion Items - Misty Harbor Estates Subdivision (Preliminary & Final Plat): A 30.5-acre project creating 72 residential lots in three phases. Staff recommended approval. The applicant's consultant had no additional remarks. The commission approved with one abstention (Mr. Mock) after public testimony. - Annexation for Misty Harbor (A2506): Contiguous annexation of the same property. Staff noted consistency with comprehensive plan. Approved unanimously after no public testimony. - Quick Trip 282 PUD (PUD 2512): Proposed rezoning of an 11,000 sq ft M1-zoned portion to PUD C2 to allow a convenience store with fuel pumps. Staff supported, noting the driveway existed since 1974. Traffic study was discussed; staff clarified the rezoning decision does not require a finalized traffic study. Applicant (Terry Limbach) and traffic consultant noted relocated entrance and captured trips. Commission approved 7-2 (Mr. Nager and Ms. Nelson dissenting), with a condition discussion but no changes. - North Topeka Townhomes PUD Amendment 4: Habitat for Humanity proposed 23 single-family lots on vacant land. Staff recommended approval with conditions including a landscape buffer. Applicant (Lance Onstop, Janice Watkins) emphasized affordable housing and lot sizes above R2 minimums. Commission discussed lot size, deed restrictions, and feasibility. Approved unanimously (8-0) with revised conditions per staff memo. - Sunflower Crossing TIF District: BHI Development proposed a TIF district on Topeka Blvd. Staff found consistency with comprehensive plan. Commission approved unanimously (8-0), noting their role is only consistency review. - Proposed Zoning Amendments for Duplexes, Triplexes, and Quadplexes: The Housing Committee presented a recommendation to allow duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes by conditional use permit in R1 and R2 districts. Staff recommended allowing only duplexes and triplexes by CUP with guidelines for concentration, design, and parking. Commissioner Mock proposed a hybrid model with targeted revitalization zones and citywide ADU reforms. After debate, the motion to table the item to the next meeting passed unanimously (8-0). Key Outcomes - Misty Harbor Subdivision: Approved (7-0-1, Mr. Mock abstaining). - Misty Harbor Annexation: Approved (8-0). - Quick Trip PUD: Approved (7-2, Mr. Nager and Ms. Nelson dissenting). - North Topeka Townhomes PUD: Approved (8-0) with revised conditions. - Sunflower Crossing TIF: Approved (8-0), finding consistency with comprehensive plan. - Zoning Amendment (Duplex/Triplex/Quad): Tabled to the November 2025 meeting for further discussion (8-0). - Next Meeting: The chair noted a lighter agenda for November 2025, with the duplex item to be brought back for action or discussion.

The Topeka Governing Body met on October 15, 2025 (meeting began on October 14 and continued past midnight) for a regular meeting that included a presentation on a downtown digital kiosk pilot program, action on an abandoned vehicle citation ordinance, discussions on alcohol and drug funding and merchant security uniforms, and public comments addressing landlord licensing and police accountability. The meeting concluded with an executive session on personnel matters. Consent Calendar - Settlement approval: The body approved a settlement of up to $292,500 to resolve a lawsuit filed by Barbara Hack related to her employment with the city, on a full and final basis. - Minutes: The minutes of the regular meeting of October 7, 2025 were approved. - The consent agenda passed unanimously (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Greg DeBacker (landlord) opposed the proposed rental registration ordinance, arguing it would burden tenants with increased rent and landlords with fees. He questioned the cost, inspection requirements, and whether short-term rentals would be exempt. - Steve Vogel (president of Shawnee County Landlords Association) questioned the effectiveness of landlord licensing, citing that the worst U.S. rental cities have such requirements. He urged the city to enforce existing property maintenance codes instead. - Sandra Lassiter made brief religious remarks and referenced discrimination settlements. - Unnamed speaker (Ms. Duncan, family of Taylor Lowry) requested the city review the abandoned vehicle ordinance to avoid penalizing low-income residents who cannot afford registration. She also submitted claims on behalf of three families whose loved ones were killed by police in 2022 (Taylor Lowry, Christopher Kelly, Dylan Wallstrom), asking for accountability, transparency, and release of video footage. - Demonbrius Duncan (family of Taylor Lowry) recounted the emotional toll and asked for truth and transparency, stating that one officer expressed regret. She noted she had to fight to view video footage and questioned why officers were not given drug/alcohol tests after the shooting. - Courtland Davis (community activist) reiterated demands for truth and transparency regarding police shootings, urging the council to address systemic issues. - Henry McClure criticized the city's economic development incentives (e.g., Go Topeka contracts, hotel purchase) and suggested increasing the local alcohol tax to fund homelessness and addiction programs. Discussion Items - Downtown Digital Kiosk Pilot Program: Public Works Director Steve Gron and Analyst Alley Williams presented a two-year pilot program for four digital kiosks in downtown Topeka. The kiosks will promote events, provide wayfinding, emergency alerts, parking payment, and multilingual support (English and Spanish). The city will receive a minimum of $7,500 per year plus 12% of screen time for city content. The vendor covers maintenance and replacement. The program is a FY2025 strategic goal. Installation is expected by February 2026. - Abandoned Vehicle Citation Ordinance: Police Commander Colleen Stewart proposed expanding citation authority to property maintenance inspectors for abandoned vehicles. Currently only police can cite; property maintenance staff work consistent areas and can improve efficiency. The ordinance does not change the underlying procedure (48-hour rule, towing). Council discussion included concerns about penalizing residents with legitimate reasons (e.g., medical issues) and liability. A motion to defer the vote for one week failed (4-5). The original motion to approve passed 7-2 (Councilmembers Kel and Miller dissenting). - 2026 Special Alcohol and Drug Funding Recommendations: Housing Division Director Carrie Higgins presented the grant review committee's recommendation to allocate $720,206 to agencies at full ask. One new agency (Mere – justice-involved recovery services) is included. The funding comes from Kansas liquor tax. No appeals were filed. The item will return for approval at the next meeting. - Merchant Private Security Uniform Ordinance: Police Chief Chris Vallejo proposed allowing off-duty law enforcement officers (TPD, county, KHP) to wear their uniform while working private security at businesses, with approval from the TPD chief. Discussion focused on liability, accountability, and worker's compensation. Council requested a legal memorandum on liability before taking action. No vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Abandoned Vehicle Citation Ordinance: Approved 7-2 (Kel and Miller voting no). The ordinance allows property maintenance inspectors to issue citations for abandoned vehicles on public streets, effective immediately. - Deferral motion failed: A substitute motion to defer the abandoned vehicle vote to October 21, 2025 failed 4-5. - Next steps: The special alcohol and drug funding allocations and the merchant uniform ordinance will be considered at the October 21 meeting. The digital kiosk contract is expected to be finalized in coming weeks, with installation targeted for February 2026. - Executive session: The body recessed into a 30-minute executive session to discuss personnel matters involving an individual employee. No action was taken.

The Topeka City Council met on October 7, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included a presentation on new demographic dashboards, several consent and action items, and extensive discussion on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The council approved appointments, zoning changes, infrastructure projects, and initial steps for two incentive districts. The CIP discussion was deferred to the October 21 meeting. Consent Calendar - Appointments: Eli May to Board of Building and Fire Appeals (term ending Oct 7, 2027) and Valerie Peckham to Topeka Shawnee County Public Library Board (unexpired term ending Apr 30, 2029) were approved unanimously. - Consent agenda (ordinance on parking garage exemption, contract for professional services, and minutes of Sept 16, 2025) was approved 9-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Danielle Twemlow spoke twice: first on the Windward Estates RHID, criticizing the lack of upfront project details (renderings, financial analysis) and calling for stronger ordinance safeguards; second on the Sunflower Crossing TIF, urging pausing incentives until ordinances include affordable housing set-asides, clawback provisions, and job hiring requirements. She cited examples from other Kansas cities. - Henry McClure praised the fire department open house, commented on development challenges in Topeka (referencing College Hill and Maverick deals), and urged standardized development agreements. - Bonnie Lasseter expressed frustration about a city manager not meeting with her group, alleged lack of response from interim city attorney, and urged more community engagement from city staff. Discussion Items - Demographic Dashboard Presentation (Travis Lather, GIS): Demonstrated a new public-facing website providing demographic, housing, economic, and market data down to council district and NIA level. Data sourced from U.S. Census, ACS, BLS, and private vendors. Council asked about adding local data, street search, custom geography, benchmarking, and historical comparisons. The tool is live on the city website. - Action 5A – Zoning Change at 625 SW Polk: Proposed rezoning from O&I to M3 for multifamily. After debate, council voted to amend the recommendation to M2 (7-2) and then approve as amended (7-1-1). Ex parte communications were disclosed. - Action 5E – Windward Estates RHID: First step resolution to establish district boundaries for 40 rental units (20 duplexes). Public comment raised concerns about lack of upfront project details. Council voted 7-2 to approve, with Valdivia Aqua and Banks opposed. - Action 5F – Sunflower Crossing TIF: Resolution to set a public hearing (Nov 12, 2025) for potential TIF district. Council voted 8-1 to approve, with Valdivia Aqua opposed. City staff noted blight study satisfied 7 of 9 statutory factors. - Action 5G – CIP 2026-2035: Councilwoman Hiller presented an alternative proposal with 15-year bonds, reduced spending ($116M vs $147M), and potential savings of $25-35M. Changes included consolidating Dreams programs, deferring some large projects (Polk Quincy East, Southeast 29th, fire stations, fleet garage) to a future list, and creating a capital improvement cash fund. Council voted 9-0 to defer final action to October 21 meeting. - Action 5H – Revenue Bonds for Utility Improvements: Deferred to October 21. Key Outcomes - Appointments approved unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Zoning amendment (5A) passed: motion to amend to M2 (7-2), then motion to approve as amended (7-1-1). - Infrastructure projects (5B, 5C, 5D) approved unanimously: river weir crest cap ($800k), ferric chloride tank system ($473k), NW Minegar Road improvements (rebid). - Windward Estates RHID (5E) approved 7-2. - Sunflower Crossing TIF public hearing (5F) set for Nov 12, 2025, approved 8-1. - CIP (5G) deferred to Oct 21, 2025. - Revenue bonds (5H) deferred to Oct 21. - Three executive sessions held (legal advice, financial affairs, personnel); no action taken. Announcements & Other Business - City manager announced KDOT Local Consult on Oct 9, 2025, to discuss PQ East project. - Councilwoman Hofer recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month and highlighted Constitution Hall's first major event. - Councilwoman Valdivia inquired about applicability of HB 2160 (Kansas Municipal Employee Whistleblower Act) and raised concerns about utilities department culture, investigations, and hiring. Councilman Duncan confirmed the act covers municipal employees. - Councilman Miller and Mayor Padilla emphasized respecting city staff and balancing criticisms with evidence. - Next regular meeting: Oct 14, 2025 (with rescheduled Nov meetings due to election and Veterans Day).

Note: The transcript repeatedly references September 16, 2025, but per the instruction, the meeting date is recorded as September 17, 2025. This discrepancy is noted. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Michael Padilla with 10 council members present. The meeting included a proclamation, consent agenda, several action items, extensive budget discussions, public comments, and final announcements. The council adopted the 2026 operating budget after multiple amendments. Consent Calendar - Resolution 1: Exception to noise ordinance for Christ the King Catholic Church. - Ordinance: Approval of city expenditures for July 26 – August 29, 2025. - Minutes: Regular meeting of September 9, 2025. - All items approved unanimously (10-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel Twendho (on 4B): Opposed the abatement of special assessment penalties for Marney Properties, arguing it lacks transparency and sets a bad precedent; noted other homeowners have paid their specials for years and that the city is losing property tax revenue from undeveloped lots. - Candace Stiles (Topeka Metro Board): Requested $250,000 to restore a bus route cut due to the Metro’s revenue-neutral rate hearing shortfall; warned cuts would harm low-income residents. - Kalani Britt (Topeka Jump): Urged $2 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and investment in a community violence intervention program; warned the council has failed for five years to act on the 2020 housing study. - Henry (unidentified): Criticized the use of consultants and Go Topeka funding; called for a citizens commission and urged the body to stop hiring consultants. - Danielle Twamba: Expressed disappointment that the budget lacks consistent funding for affordable housing, mental health, and the unsheltered; suggested revenue streams such as rental registry and improved incentive policies. - Henry McClure (during public comment): Complained about CORA violations by Go Topeka regarding vote tallies on sales tax expenditures; questioned tax breaks for Advisors XL and the ATT building deal. Discussion Items - Transient Guest Tax for Hotel Topeka (4A): The city manager (Robert Perez) and deputy city manager (Braxton Copley) presented a charter ordinance to implement an 8% transient guest tax at Hotel Topeka, with revenues above a 2025 baseline going to the city to recoup acquisition, operating, and capital costs. Councilman Duncan (committee chair) explained it is a procedural move to implement a previously approved deal. The total city investment is approximately $17.7 million (bonds, interest, capital, operations). Revenue is expected from the CID ($4M over 22 years) and the TGT increment ($13.3M over 30 years). Councilwoman Valdivia-Alcala opposed, citing community dissatisfaction with the payback timeframe. - Marney Properties Special Assessment Abatement (4B): The deputy city manager explained the owner owed $82,593 in specials and $10,416 in taxes; waiving penalties ($47,775) was recommended because penalties go to the county, not the city, and the properties were in foreclosure. Councilwoman Valdivia-Alcala voted no, concerned about precedent and taxpayer impact. - 2026 Operating Budget (4C): - The budget initially had a deficit; staff worked to balance it. - Amendment 1 (Dobler): $250,000 from the Tyler project contingency to Topeka Metro to restore a bus route. Passed 10-0. - Amendment 2 (Miller): $100,000 from economic development funds to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Passed 8-2 (Valdivia-Alcala and Banks no). - Hiller comprehensive amendment: Proposed $700,000 in cuts (Lexipol studies, property tax rebate program, duplicate PARS grant, new historic tax credit revenue). Withdrawn after debate. - Sub-amendment (Ortiz): Move Lexipol funding ($190k) from general fund to forfeiture fund. Passed 10-0. - Amendment (Duncan): Retain two-hour parking on 8th Avenue between Kansas and Jackson until Dec 31, 2026, with $25,000 revenue reduction. Passed 7-2-1 (Kel and Hofer no, Hiller abstained). - Amendment (Duncan): Transfer $130,000 from e-citation enhancement to fund a Chief Financial Officer position. Passed 10-0. - City manager motion: Transfer internal investigator FTE from city attorney’s office to city manager’s office to build an office of municipal integrity. Passed 10-0. - Final budget approval as amended: Passed 8-2 (Hiller and Hofer no). - Public comment on budget: Multiple speakers emphasized the need for sustainable funding for transit, housing, and violence prevention. Key Outcomes - Transient Guest Tax Ordinance (4A): Adopted 9-1 (Valdivia-Alcala opposed). The city will capture the increment above the 2025 baseline from an 8% TGT at Hotel Topeka to recoup $17.7M over 30 years, combined with $4M from the CID. - Marney Properties Abatement (4B): Adopted 8-1 (Valdivia-Alcala opposed). The city waived $47,775 in penalties; the owner pays $82,593 in specials and $10,416 in taxes. - 2026 Budget (4C): Adopted 8-2 after amendments. Key changes: - $250,000 transferred from Tyler project to Topeka Metro. - $100,000 from economic development to Affordable Housing Trust Fund. - $190,000 in Lexipol costs moved from general fund to forfeiture fund. - $130,000 from e-citation enhancement reallocated to a CFO position. - Internal investigator FTE moved from city attorney to city manager. - Two-hour parking retained on a stretch of 8th Avenue, reducing parking revenue by $25,000. - Executive Session: The council recessed for 15 minutes for legal advice; no action taken.

The City of Topeka Planning Commission met on September 16, 2025, to consider a preliminary and final plat for Ardmore Walk Edition, a related annexation, and a proposed text amendment to the zoning code regarding multifamily housing. The commission approved the plat and annexation and deferred a decision on the text amendment to allow for further discussion and public input. The meeting also included recognition of Commissioner Jim Kaup for his service. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission approved the minutes from the prior meeting with two corrections: (1) adding Commissioner Kaup to the members present, and (2) correcting a statement to reflect "five or ten new duplexes a year" instead of simply "five or ten new duplexes." The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Ardmore Walk Edition: No public comments were received. - Multifamily Housing Text Amendment: Multiple residents spoke in opposition to the proposed changes, requesting more neighborhood engagement and a slower process. Key points included: - A representative from Elmhurst expressed concern over limited notification for conditional use permits and the speed of the process, questioning whether the change would produce the desired housing outcomes. - A College Hill resident presented data showing that existing home prices in her neighborhood already meet the target affordable range ($150,000 average sale price), arguing that the change is unnecessary. - A resident from Potwin Place stated that neighborhoods should vote on such changes rather than a commission of 13. - A Collins Park resident called the public engagement process disingenuous and opposed any form of upzoning (by right, CUP, or administrative), noting a unified coalition of neighborhoods forming to oppose the proposal. - A representative from Historic Old Town NIA cautioned about unintended consequences, drawing parallels to past policy decisions that harmed community fabric. - Multiple speakers cited the need for neighborhood-by-neighborhood engagement and suggested "pumping the brakes." Discussion Items - P2508 – Preliminary and Final Plat for Ardmore Walk Edition: Staff presented a proposal to subdivide 25.28 acres into 42 lots, public roads, and stormwater detention, with three phases. The property is contiguous to city limits and requires annexation. Staff recommended approval. Commissioner Brooks raised concerns from a neighboring property owner about stormwater runoff and traffic. The applicant's engineer responded that a stormwater management plan would reduce post-development flows to pre-development levels, and a traffic impact study showed minor increases (37 AM peak, 48 PM peak trips). Commission discussion added a note that staff's finding of conformance to the comprehensive plan is subject to construction of planned infrastructure. The plat was approved unanimously with that condition. - Annexation for Ardmore Walk Edition: Staff explained that the property is contiguous and the owner consents. The planning commission's role is to determine consistency with the comprehensive plan. Staff recommended finding the project consistent. The commission voted unanimously to approve the consistency finding. - Text Amendment Regarding Multifamily Housing (Duplexes, Triplexes, Quadplexes): Staff presented a memo recommending a public hearing and deferral to a future meeting. The housing committee currently recommends allowing these uses by conditional use permit (CUP) in R1 and R2 districts. Staff noted that over 20 other non-single-family uses are already allowed in those districts by CUP. The CUP process includes neighborhood notification, public hearing, and a development plan. Staff argued that this approach is context-sensitive and avoids arbitrary treatment of neighborhoods. Commissioners discussed the need for more time to consider written comments, including a 13-page submission from former planning director Bill Feander. Commissioner Brooks expressed support for new construction duplexes (especially replacing blighted homes) but had concerns about conversions and triplexes/quadplexes regarding parking and density. Commissioner Nelson supported the CUP approach and noted the need for affordable housing. Commissioner Kaup, in his final meeting, emphasized that the expected impact is modest (single-digit or small double-digit new units per year) and that the housing crisis warrants action. Several commissioners noted the significance of the issue and the need to carefully weigh input. The commission voted to defer the item to the October meeting for further discussion. Key Outcomes - P2508 Plat Approval: Motion to approve the preliminary and final plat for Ardmore Walk Edition, subject to staff conditions and the added condition that conformance to the comprehensive plan is subject to construction of planned infrastructure. Passed unanimously (8-0). - Annexation Consistency Finding: Motion to find that the annexation is consistent with the comprehensive plan. Passed unanimously (8-0). - Text Amendment Deferral: Motion to defer consideration of the text amendment to the October 2025 meeting. Passed unanimously (8-0). The commission will discuss and potentially vote at that time. Recognition - Commissioner Jim Kaup was recognized for his 12 years of service on the Planning Commission. Staff and fellow commissioners praised his expertise, detailed questions, and commitment to addressing the city's housing crisis. Commissioner Kaup thanked the commission and staff, emphasizing the importance of the planning commission's work in balancing private property rights with community interests.

The governing body met on September 10, 2025 to consider rezoning proposals, the 2026 operating budget, property disposals, and utility liens. The meeting featured extensive public comment and debate on equity, affordable housing, and development incentives. Public Comments & Testimony - Amy Hayton (Lois Curtis Center) expressed concern that the budget reflects inequity, noting the closure of the DEI office while the percentage of non-white unhoused individuals rose from 18% (2022) to 46%. She argued that financial equity must be a conscious decision. - Michelle Bradbury criticized the budget's reliance on one-time transfers and the use of incentive programs for developers with outstanding tax liabilities, calling it a breach of public trust. - Gage Church (pastor, member of Topeka Jumps) requested $2 million for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, citing promises from council members Duncan and Miller. - Martha Boatright (via Zoom) voiced agreement with previous speakers, stating the budget downplays low-income areas and criticized inequity in handling water bill liens vs. developer debts. - Corey Chandler opposed a tax increase for Topeka Airport, noting no commercial flights and questioning the need for higher taxes given recent grants. - Chuck Daltmeyer (developer) argued against further waivers for the Lawrence Bay developer, stating the city has already discounted lots and granted an RHID program that will divert property taxes for 25 years, costing Topeka up to $30 million. - Candace Stiles (Topeka Metro Transit Board) expressed disappointment with the revenue neutral rate hearing for Metro, which led to a $300,000 budget cut that may reduce service, and offered solutions for future hearings. - Jonathan Smith (tenant) shared a personal story of poor housing conditions and unresponsive landlords, arguing that current property maintenance codes allow such conditions and calling for stronger tenant protections. - Danielle Temmo advocated for moving public comment to the beginning of the agenda to increase civic engagement and trust. Discussion Items - Zoning Overlay (4A & 4B): The council approved an overlay district for the Monroe School area after discussion. Dan Warner noted the overlay limits building height to 32 feet. For 4B, the rezoning of 40 properties to implement the overlay was approved 9-0-1 (abstention). - Rezoning to M3 (4C): A .88-acre property near Southwest 29th and Armstrong was rezoned from C4 to M3 (multifamily). Approved unanimously (10-0). - Rezoning at 625 Southwest Polk (4D): A .52-acre site rezoned from O&I to M3 faced opposition from the neighborhood who preferred a park. Staff noted M2 would also be appropriate. After debate, the council deferred the item to October 7th (first meeting in October) by a vote of 8-2 (Ortiz and Banks dissenting), to allow further discussion with stakeholders. - 2026 Operating Budget (4E): Public hearing held; no action taken. Council members noted they will bring amendments next week, including potential funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and CIP adjustments. - Property Disposals (4F, 4G, 4H): The council authorized disposal of three city-owned properties (204 SW 5th, 400 SE 8th, 225 NW Curtis) and the use of RFPs to engage a broker. All approved 10-0. - Utility Liens (4I): An ordinance to place liens on properties with unpaid utility bills (94 properties, total $86,000) was approved 7-3 (Valdivia, Banks, and Duncan dissenting). Dissenters cited inequity compared to treatment of large developers. Key Outcomes - Approval of Monroe School overlay district and rezoning of 40 properties (4A, 4B). Vote: 10-0 and 9-0-1 respectively. - Rezoning of .88 acres to M3 (4C). Vote: 10-0. - Deferral of rezoning at 625 SW Polk to October 7, 2025. Vote: 8-2. - Public hearing on 2026 budget held; council will take up budget amendments and final vote next week. - Authorization to dispose of three properties (4F, 4G, 4H). All approved 10-0. - Approval of utility lien ordinance (4I). Vote: 7-3. - Two executive sessions were held for legal advice on financial affairs and attorney-client privilege; no action taken. - The council also acknowledged ex parte communications from Councilmember Hiller, Ortiz, and another member on rezoning items, each stating they could still be impartial.

The Topeka Governing Body met on September 3, 2025, to consider appointments, consent agenda items, infrastructure project approvals, a utility lien discussion, and the 2026 budget. The meeting featured a presentation on the 2025 National Night Out, approval of water and street improvements totaling over $4.8 million, and a public comment period that highlighted concerns about fairness in debt collection, the city manager's conduct, and the need for affordable housing funding. Consent Calendar - Approval of a resolution granting the Celtic Fox an exception to noise prohibitions. - Approval of a special event resolution for the 2025 Tap That Brew Festival. - Approval of a joint memorandum of agreement on group health care cost sharing with labor unions for 2026–2028. - Approval of a professional engineering contract amendment for boiler system upgrades at the North Topeka Wastewater Treatment Plant. - Approval of a professional engineering contract amendment for the Southwest 21st Street Water Main Replacement Project. - Approval of minutes from the special meeting of August 26, 2025. All items were approved unanimously (10-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Danielle Twemlow (on deferred item 5D and utility liens): Spoke against forgiving penalties for developers, noting that previous forgiveness for Crossman cost the city $3.22 million in lost value and $7.95 million still owed. She argued that the city should focus on collecting large debts rather than placing liens on small residential accounts. She also requested a clear process for debt forgiveness equal to that offered to developers. - Sandra Lasseter: Criticized City Manager for being dismissive in a recent meeting and questioned high salaries (manager $256,000 plus $700 addendum, five attorneys over $100,000). She suggested a hiring freeze on top positions and redirecting funds to help seniors struggling with property taxes. She stated the city manager refused further meetings with community leaders. - Steve Schiffelbein (Topeka JUMP – Justice Unity and Ministry Project): Urged the council to support $2 million in public funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund in the 2026 budget, citing commitments from the city manager and council members at previous forums. - Henry McClure: Called for a public forum on the Lawrence Bay development deal with Jim Crossman, criticized the city for not enforcing payment of special assessments, and claimed Crossman “owns the city.” He argued that the city should stop doing business with delinquent developers. Discussion Items - 2025 National Night Out Update: Presented by Bianca Burnett. Nine neighborhood-led events and a citywide event at the Expocentre attracted over 2,200 residents (1,500 at the citywide event). The total cost was $12,950.73, under the $15,000 budget. Highlights included a talent show, touch-a-truck, car show, and senior participation (busloads from East Topeka Senior Center). Plans for 2026 include improved signage, senior transportation, and expanded sponsorship. - Utility Lien Ordinance Process (Non-action item 6A): Staff reported sending letters to 146 property owners with delinquent utility accounts totaling nearly $112,000. As of meeting day, 96 accounts remained unpaid ($87,000). Most (94) were outside city limits (wastewater customers). Last year, 175 letters were sent with $130,000 outstanding; 98% of liens are eventually paid. Council members Hiller and Dobler clarified that no residential water customers were included in this batch. - 2026 Budget Discussion (Non-action item 6B): Budget Director Josh Mackinar noted the public hearing will occur September 9, with a tentative vote September 16. Councilman Duncan proposed an amendment to restore two code compliance officers by reallocating $130,000 from e-ticket citations funding. Councilwoman Hiller pressed for a plan to address the projected $15 million deficit in 2027. City Manager acknowledged the need for tough choices, including possible cuts of 10 police, 7 firefighter positions, and a battalion chief. Public comments urged investment in affordable housing and criticized high executive salaries. Key Outcomes - Appointment Approved: Monique Popey reappointed to the ADA Advisory Council (voice vote, unanimous). - Consent Agenda Approved: All six items passed 10-0. - Infrastructure Projects Approved: - 5A: Water line improvements on 21st Street (Buchanan to Washburn) – $2.2 million (approved 10-0). - 5B: Water line improvements on Stony Brook Drive – $2.1 million (approved 10-0). - 5C: Street and stormwater improvements on SW Martin Drive (41st to 42nd) – under $560,000 (approved 10-0). - Item 5D Deferred: Resolution regarding penalties/properties was moved to September 16, 2025, with no objection. - Social Service Grants Approved: $491,904 allocated for 2026 (approved 10-0). - Next Meeting: September 9, 2025, will include a public hearing on the 2026 operating budget and several zoning ordinances. The utility lien ordinance will be brought back for a vote. - Council Announcements: Councilwoman Valdivia Aquala read emails from developer Chuck Doltmeyer alleging unfair treatment favoring developer Jim Crossman and criticized the city manager's conduct. Councilman Miller offered condolences for the death of Connie Gould in a traffic accident. Councilman Dobler urged the public to engage constructively.