Public Meetings - Wichita, Kansas

The Wichita City Council held its evening meeting on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, 455 N. Main Street. The meeting included proclamations, awards, public comments, approval of consent agenda items, a detailed presentation on property maintenance codes, and appointments to the City Manager Selection Advisory Committee. All votes were unanimous 7-0. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the regular meeting of May 27, 2025. - Approved Consent Agenda Items 1 through 12, including applications for cereal malt beverage licenses, design services agreements, minutes of advisory boards/commissions, proclamation votes, second reading ordinances, zoning case ZON2025-00009 (zone change from SF-5 to TF-3 for a duplex), vacation requests VAC2025-00010 and VAC2025-00011, plat SUB2024-00051 (Cherese Point Addition), and airport agreements with Smarte Carte, Inc., Wichita Air Services, Inc. (Supplemental No. 1), and The United States Postal Service (Supplemental Agreement No. 2). - Approved the Board of Bids and Contracts report dated June 2, 2025, which included multiple engineering, water, sewer, and airport contracts totaling over $12 million, including projects such as the Forest View stormwater improvements ($386,109), 2025 Outsource Pavement Preservation ($521,800.80), Maple Street Booster Pump Station ($3,061,976), and roof replacement for Evergreen Park Recreation Building ($480,000). Awards and Proclamations - Proclaimed June 2025 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month. June, Communications Director for Wichita Pride, expressed gratitude and emphasized the importance of visibility for the community. - Proclaimed June 3, 2025 as Wichita Area Sister Cities Day of Recognition, celebrating 52 years of friendship with Tlalnepantla, Mexico. The proclamation highlighted the 1,400-mile cycling trek by athletes from Tlalnepantla. - Presented a Certificate of Recognition to the Wichita State University Cheer Team for winning the Division I Intermediate Large Coed national championship. - Recognized the 13 graduates of the 16th Citizens Fire Academy. Greg Cockworth, a graduate, spoke about the training and announced the class would purchase memorial bricks for the Kansas Firefighters Memorial. Public Comments & Testimony - Barb Myers (1621 N. Melrose, Friends of the Wichita Pioneers) requested city assistance with equipment and labor for Highland Cemetery, formation of a municipal cemetery preservation advisory committee, and clarification on the cemetery trust fund. The city manager agreed to prepare a report on legal obligations and restrictions. - Dani Gains (Kansas Leadership Center) invited council to the Kansas State Finals of the National Civics Bee on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 1 to 7 PM, where 15 middle school finalists would compete for a $100,000 education savings fund. - Vince Hancock (President, Delano Neighborhood Association) distinguished between willing property owners (who need help) and unreachable owners (using LLCs to avoid accountability). He criticized MABCD for lack of transparency and training, and asked for reforms. - Faith Martin (District 2) noted that few environmental court cases result in meaningful penalties for out-of-state landlords, and asked for more aggressive enforcement. - Margaret Shabass (1142 N. Market) described safety hazards from a chronically overgrown vacant lot with encampments, rodents, and drug paraphernalia. Councilmember Ballard offered to help facilitate accountability. - Alamze (via translator) reported that his apartment landlord fails to complete work orders, charges for repairs, and plans to stop accepting Section 8 vouchers after August. Councilmembers offered to connect him with housing department and provided encouragement. - Pat Daniels (President, Rental Owners Incorporated) expressed support for targeting out-of-state absentee landlords and offered to help draft legislation. He stressed that most landlords are responsible. - Harlan Bascom (5514 S. Santa Fe) noted that out-of-state landlords ignore notices and that the city needs better enforcement tools. - Another speaker advocated for the hybrid enforcement model, differentiating owner-occupied from rental properties, and urged council to retain demolition authority. Discussion Items - Property Maintenance Codes (VI-1): Troy Anderson, Assistant City Manager, presented a comprehensive review of property maintenance codes. Key points: - The existing municipal code is duplicative across titles. The city proposes to repeal and replace sections with the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), an industry standard. - Three options for prosecution of violations: (1) replace environmental court with administrative hearings; (2) modify environmental court to be penalty-based; (3) hybrid model where prosecutors can send cases to either administrative hearing or environmental court depending on the offender. Council indicated support for the hybrid model (Option 3), with guidance to prioritize repeat offenders. - On demolitions: council asked for more data on timelines and costs before deciding whether to keep city council approval or delegate to the code official with appeal to the Board of Code Standards and Appeals. Councilmember Ballard and Hoheisel favored retaining council approval; Vice Mayor Johnston leaned toward delegation; others needed more data. - Councilmember Johnson requested adding air conditioning requirements to the code; staff to research. - Next steps: finalize ordinance, present to District Advisory Boards in June/July, return with ordinance in July/August, target effective date January 1, 2026. - Additional policy considerations (rental registry, income discrimination, repeat offender penalties) were noted as separate from this code revision. - Appointments to City Manager Selection Advisory Committee: Council approved a list of 11 members from across the community, including representatives from neighborhood associations, non-profits, business, education, and military. Councilmember Hoheisel suggested adding a labor representative; Councilmember Johnson proposed Aaron Bastion. Council decided to allow the committee to determine if additional voices are needed. Key Outcomes - All consent items and the Board of Bids report passed 7-0. - The property maintenance codes presentation was received and filed (motion passed 7-0). Council provided policy direction to staff to proceed with the hybrid enforcement model and to bring more data on demolitions. - The City Manager Selection Advisory Committee was appointed (11 members) via 7-0 vote. - City Manager to prepare a report on the cemetery trust fund and legal obligations. - Councilmember Hoheisel noted upcoming flood mitigation projects and the Clapp Park playground ribbon cutting. Vice Mayor Johnston highlighted Riverfest events and a town hall on shared services with the county and school district on June 4 at 5 PM. - Meeting adjourned at approximately [time not specified].

The Wichita City Council held a workshop on May 27, 2025, to receive updates on the 2026-2027 budget, review potential budget reductions, and discuss the possibility of implementing a local city sales tax. Staff presented strategic planning tactics, revenue and expenditure forecasts, and several scenarios for balancing the budget. Council members provided feedback on reduction options and expressed interest in exploring a sales tax referendum. Discussion Items - Strategic Planning Update: Finance Director Elizabeth Goldree presented the pillars, goals, strategies, and 60 concrete tactics developed by departments. The five pillars are: Well-Run City, Keep Wichita Safe, Grow Our Economy, Infrastructure, and Living Well. Mayor Lily Wu challenged the ordering, arguing infrastructure should be third based on community survey priorities. Councilmember Hoheisel requested that MOU execution be included as a tactic. Staff noted the tactics will guide budget priorities. - Budget Forecast & Reduction Options (Slides 22-25): The 2026 general fund deficit is projected at $2 million, and 2027 at $5.5 million, after modest revenue adjustments. Staff presented a tiered list of reduction concepts with varying impacts. Key items discussed: - Health insurance rate assumption: Potential savings if actual experience allows lower than 6% rate increase. Council appeared supportive. - Postage & HR contractuals: Low-impact savings, no objections. - Library reductions: Proposed cuts to newspaper/audio formats, technology study, and genealogy partnership (three positions). Councilmember Hoheisel expressed concern about impact on literacy programs, and Councilmember Johnson echoed support for maintaining literacy efforts. - Municipal court staffing: Proposed reduction of one courtroom and three positions due to fewer traffic citations. Councilmember Johnson questioned impact on speedy trial rights; staff committed to further review. - Tree planting reduction: Councilmember Ballard strongly opposed, noting 2025 was the first year plantings exceeded removals. Councilmember Hoheisel suggested working with community partners to lower costs. No consensus to cut. - Right-of-way mowing reduction: Councilmember Ballard asked for number of affected properties; Park Director Gary Ferris said analysis is pending. - Pools operating hours adjustment: Already implemented based on usage data. Councilmember Glasscock and others agreed it should be classified as a modified assumption, not a service reduction. - Animal control field operations discontinuation (2027): Councilmember Ballard and Hoheisel strongly opposed, citing public safety and humanity. Councilmember Hoheisel suggested exploring consolidation with Sedgwick County. Staff confirmed this would shift calls to police officers. - Public art reduction (CIP): Councilmember Tuttle supported keeping it; Councilmember Ballard was comfortable with the cut. No firm direction. - MABCD (abatement/demolition) budget: Councilmember Ballard opposed cutting, noting demand is unpredictable. Councilmember Hoheisel agreed. - Aerial truck staffing reversal (2027): Councilmember Ballard and Johnson opposed, calling it a public safety risk. Councilmember Tuttle also opposed. - Sales Tax Discussion (Slides 26-38): Finance Director Mark Manning presented 40 years of history. Wichita is one of only two first-class Kansas cities without a city sales tax. Current combined rate is 7.5% (6.5% state, 1% county). A half-cent city sales tax would generate $55-60 million annually; a full cent would generate $115 million. Costs to an average family: $28/year for a half-cent on groceries (if applied), or $176/year on all taxable consumption. Manning outlined that a sales tax could be used for property tax relief (e.g., a 6-mill levy reduction, equaling about $176 on an average home) plus capital infrastructure. Council members expressed interest but emphasized the need for community engagement, a clear purpose (e.g., public safety capital), and a sunset provision. Councilmember Ballard asked about combining a permanent mill levy reduction with a sunsetting CIP portion. Mayor Wu noted the city cannot lead a campaign; a grassroots effort would be needed. Councilmember Johnson stressed protecting renters and low-income families. Multiple members indicated November 2025 is too rushed and a longer engagement timeline is preferred. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to refine the budget reduction list based on feedback: protect tree planting, animal control field operations, MABCD funding, public art, and aerial truck staffing; reclassify pool hours as modified assumption; further study court staffing impacts and literacy effects of library cuts. - Staff will bring a revised budget to the June 24 workshop, incorporating council guidance and updated valuation data (expected by June 15). - Council expressed support for continuing exploration of a city sales tax, with emphasis on a dedicated, sunsetting capital improvement component (public safety facilities) and potential property tax relief. No formal vote was taken; further discussion and community engagement are anticipated. - The next regular meeting is June 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM, focusing on property maintenance code revisions.

The City Council convened at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in the 1st Floor Boardroom at 455 N. Main Street, Wichita, KS. All actions were taken by unanimous 7-0 votes. The council approved minutes, a consent agenda, two pulled consent items, public improvement petitions, and travel authorizations. A workshop session followed adjournment. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the regular meeting of May 20, 2025 (7-0). - Approved consent agenda items 1–15 and 18–31 in one motion (7-0). These items included beverage licenses, agreements/contracts, change orders, advisory board minutes, assessment respreading agreements, a STEP agreement, a claim settlement, ordinance second readings, housing authority actions (e.g., property sales, insurance), and airport authority contracts. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were scheduled for the public agenda, and no audience members requested to speak during that portion. - No public comment was offered when items 16 and 17 were discussed. Discussion Items - Homeless Care Coordination Team Funding (Consent Items 16 & 17): A council member pulled the two items and asked for details. Steve, Assistant Director of Housing and Community Services, explained that the teams include housing navigators, social work interns, and peer recovery specialists who conduct street outreach and case conferencing with the Wichita/Sedgwick County Coalition to End Homelessness. Item 16 amended the Liquor Tax Funded Caseworker agreement to add a caseworker; item 17 amended the Project Hope Peer Program contract to raise peer recovery specialist pay from $10.50 to $14.00 per hour, with the goal of expanding from one to three peer specialists. Staff noted the teams coordinate with the Wichita Police Department’s Homeless Outreach Team. In response to a question about the 2025 point-in-time count, staff said data entry is due to HUD by June 13, 2025, and final numbers may be delayed; previous counts were 702 (2023) and 691 (2024). Both items were approved separately by 7-0 votes. - Petitions for Public Improvements – Buffalo Pines Addition: Paul Gunsman, Public Works & Utilities, presented revised petitions and budgets for Buffalo Pines Addition in District II. Signatures represented 100% of improvement district property owners, and the petitions were valid under Kansas statute. A council member noted the revised budget had increased by approximately $250,000; staff responded that construction costs have risen and that they planned to meet with plating engineers. The council approved the revised petitions, budgets, and resolutions (7-0). - Travel Authorizations: The council approved three travel requests, each by a 7-0 vote: - Council Member Johnson: Multi-Family Housing Conference, Dallas, TX, October 21–24, 2025. - Mayor Wu: City to City, Detroit, MI, October 7–9, 2025. - Council Member Glasscock: City to City, Detroit, MI, October 7–10, 2025. It was noted that travel expenses are now posted online at Wichita.gov/city council. Key Outcomes - All motions and approvals passed unanimously (7-0). - Consent agenda items 16 and 17 were approved after individual consideration. - The revised Buffalo Pines Addition petitions and budgets were approved. - Three travel authorizations were granted. - The council asked staff to provide the number of applications received for the city manager consultant process (applications closed the prior Friday); that information is pending. - The regular meeting was adjourned, and the council proceeded into a workshop.

This summary is based solely on the agenda as no meeting minutes or transcript were provided. The meeting was scheduled for 5:00 PM at the Advanced Learning Library. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from April 24, 2025 (no details available). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments are recorded in the agenda or transcript. Discussion Items - New Business: Review of Police Service Board (PSB) cases was listed, with a board vote required for each case and public comments allowed (3 minutes per speaker). No specific cases or outcomes are documented. - Policy Discussion: The board planned to review and discuss Policy 514 (Arrest and Detention of Foreign Nationals) and Policy 804 (License Plate Reader). No discussion details are available. - Board Agenda: Subcommittee and ad hoc committee updates were scheduled. No updates are recorded. Executive Session - Continuing case review for cases 20PSB-4821, 22PSB-3759, 23PSB-5605, 23PSB-5774, 23PSB-5775, and 23PSB-6557 was listed with recommended action to provide feedback on discipline and receive and file. No outcomes are documented. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or directives can be reported due to the absence of a transcript or meeting minutes. Any actions taken during the meeting are unknown.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary can be generated.

The Wichita City Council met on May 20, 2025 at 9:00 AM in City Council Chambers, 455 N. Main Street. The meeting included proclamations, presentations from Independent School students, and votes on several key items including police equipment, a fireworks ordinance, a drone program, and a proposed settlement. The meeting concluded with two executive sessions. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes of the May 13, 2025 regular meeting (7-0). - Proclamations: National Public Works Week (May 18-24), End the Stigma Day (May 22) honoring Remington Hope Young, and Maternal Mental Health Month. Gary Jansen (Public Works Director) highlighted department statistics: 700+ employees, water customers up 81% over 50 years while consumption only up 21%. Amy Young (mother of Remington) spoke on mental health awareness. - Consent Agenda Items 1-17 (excluding items 8 and 11): Approved 7-0. Included licenses, preliminary estimates, agreements (workers' comp review, water service, overdose data, uniforms, College Hill plan), design agreements, minutes, proclamation votes, drug enforcement task force, police equipment replacement (item 8 – pulled separately), ITS funding, community event alcohol permit, settlement of HH Holdings (item 11 – pulled separately), second reading ordinances (fee changes, special assessments, zoning change), planning annexation, housing Continuum of Care budget, housing sale, airport use and lease, and structural engineering services. Public Comments & Testimony - Students from The Independent School (Leo Angbo on wind energy, Cohen Crites on hydropower, Sadie Cheng on biomass, William Antonios on solar energy, Dessa Thiry and Catalena Burk on biomass and biogas) presented their research and ideas for Wichita's future. Council members praised their confidence and civic engagement. Councilmember Johnson encouraged them to keep fighting for renewable energy. Councilmember Hoheisel updated on city initiatives (electric fleet, pollinator gardens, methane capture). - Police Equipment (Item 8): Faith Martin (District 2) asked about funding sources. Captain Cooley confirmed helmets from CIP, communications from radio CIP, ballistic shields from federal JAG grant. - Settlement (Item 11): Multiple speakers spoke against settling for $400,000: Celeste Rossette (former FDIC examiner/auditor) detailed the history of the deal and lack of oversight; Lawanda Descher (District 1) noted everyday citizens are penalized for non-payment; Olivia Hayes questioned why the settlement was so low; George Theo Harris (District 3) supported the fire department’s fireworks stance. - Other: George Harris commented on fireworks, and one resident urged limiting fireworks to city displays only. Faith Martin expressed privacy concerns about the drone program. Discussion Items - Item 8 – Police Protective Equipment Replacement: Captain Cooley presented the need to replace helmets, communications equipment, and ballistic shields. Councilmember Hoheisel noted active shooter preparedness. Approved 7-0. - Item 11 – Settlement of City v. HH Holdings: Extensive discussion. City Attorney Jennifer Magania outlined the 2009 agreement, a 2011 amendment with an oral payment promise, and $1,881,003.94 owed. The proposed mediated settlement was for $400,000. City Manager Leighton noted changes since 2009: now require personal guarantees and letters of credit. Councilmember Glascock read public comments from 2008 and 2011 warning about lack of consequences. Councilmembers Ballard, Glascock, and Mayor Wu stated they would vote no on principle, preferring to fight for the full amount. Councilmember Johnson and Vice Mayor Johnston argued the case was weak and $400,000 was a sure recovery. Motion to approve the settlement failed 5-2. - Board of Bids and Contracts (May 19): Approved 7-0. Included pavement preservation, concrete repairs, and vehicle purchases. - Petitions for Public Improvements: Approved 7-0 for Gossard's Addition (street/sidewalk), Greenwich Legacy Addition (water/paving), Reber 2nd and 3rd Additions (multiple infrastructure phases). - Amended Operations and Management Agreement with The Car Park: Troy Anderson presented. Expected to generate $2.2 million over 12 months. Councilmember Glascock asked about storage, enforcement training, and cleanliness. Approved 7-0. - Fireworks Ordinance Amendment (First Reading): Battalion Chief Jose O'Cadiz presented history and data: in 2024, 36 injuries, 719 fireworks-related calls, but only one fire (improper disposal). New state law (SB 199) allows sales June 20-July 7 and permanent year-round retailers. The city proposes seasonal sales June 27-July 4, no permanent retailers, shooting dates June 27-July 5 with aerial only July 3-5, hours 10am-midnight. A citizen survey (1,327 responses) is open until May 30. Councilmember Hoheisel supported as practical. Approved 7-0 for first reading. - Quarterly Financial Reports (Q1 2025): Mark Manning presented. General fund performing as expected; sales tax stronger than anticipated; court revenues declining; interest earnings stable but expected to diminish; Gale Fund down due to weather; landfill fund underperforming. Structural challenges expected in future. Received and filed 7-0. - 2025 Drone First Responder Program: Deputy Chief Paul Duff presented a 12-month pilot at Fire Station 2 (1240 S. Broadway) – 3 docks, 3 drones, $320,000 first year ($30,000 infrastructure), $61,000/year thereafter. Can respond to 2,500 priority calls under 2 minutes. Integrated with Axon systems. Council noted privacy safeguards, no facial recognition, FAA waivers for night and beyond visual line of sight. Approved 7-0. - Wichita-Sedgwick County Addiction Intervention Coalition: Assistant City Manager Dante Martin presented. Joint city-county coalition to administer $15.5 million in opioid settlement funds over 14 years (city received $2.9M). 11 members appointed by county, city to appoint 4 more. Councilmember Hoheisel urged inclusion of those with lived experience. Public comment from Donna Garcia (nurse/nonprofit director) urged speed and community-based solutions. Approved 7-0. - Funding for Water Treatment Plant Improvements (Water Supply System): Don Henry detailed 12 projects (e.g., Cheney pumps, Hess drain line, switch gear, lime lagoons, VFDs, pipeline protection). Total $8.885 million. Council questioned El Dorado water source – Henry explained it is not feasible for severe droughts and lacks infrastructure. Approved 7-0. - Design Concept and Supplemental Design Agreement for 2nd Street North (St. Francis to Main): Paul Gunselman presented. Road reconstruction with two westbound lanes, buffered bike lane, parallel parking, curb extensions, raised intersections. Total project $6.5 million ($500k design). Council requested total project cost be included in future reports. Approved 7-0. - Pre-Employment Physical Examinations, Drug and Alcohol Screens: Andrew Hudsmith presented. RFP resulted in Worksafe as vendor, 8% cost reduction. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - Police Equipment (Item 8): Approved 7-0. - Settlement (Item 11): Motion to approve $400,000 settlement failed 5-2; the city will proceed to trial. - All other agenda items (Board of Bids, Petitions, Car Park Agreement, Fireworks Ordinance, Quarterly Reports, Drone Program, Addiction Coalition, Water Supply Improvements, 2nd Street Design, Pre-Employment Contracts) were approved or received/filed by 7-0 votes. - Councilmember Ballard announced a District VI coffee on Saturday. The council recessed into executive session for 15 minutes on contract negotiations and 10 minutes on litigation.

The Wichita City Council met on May 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the City Council Chambers at 455 N. Main Street. The meeting included the consent calendar, public comments, several discussion items, planning and zoning cases, and council member travel authorizations. (Note: No transcript or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the published agenda.) Consent Calendar - Minutes approval from the regular meeting of May 6, 2025. - Proclamations and Awards: Bike Month, Wichita Facility Management Day, Law Week. - Consent Agenda Items 1-21: Enacted by one motion. Included: - Licenses (general and cereal malt beverage). - Preliminary estimates, agreements (e.g., waterline crossing with Black Hills Energy). - Design agreements, quarterly reports (Visit Wichita Q4 2024 and TGT financial reports). - Building façade improvement project close-outs for six locations. - Asbestos remediation close-out at 150 N. Main. - Community events with alcohol consumption: Wichita River Festival (May 30 – June 7) and Somewhere Fest. - Sale of city-owned property in the 2900 block of East 13th Street North. - Purchase option for Inwood Crossings Apartments. - Proclamation votes report. - Second reading ordinances (52-641 through 52-730) for various assessment levies (pavement, water, sanitary sewer, storm water) and zoning changes. - Consent planning item: Zone change ZON2025-00007 (SF-5/TF-3 to GC) and amendment to PO 335. - Consent planning item: Plat of Hydraulic & 47th Addition. - Consent airport item: Clemens Aviation LLC use and lease agreement at Col. James Jabara Airport. Public Comments & Testimony Five speakers appeared under the Public Agenda (limited to 25 minutes, no action taken): - Arthur Stokes – Advocated regarding black mold. - Crystal Diane Sigler – Addressed homelessness and tiny housing. - Sybil Strum – Questioned how property could be seized without permission. - Joseph Tex Dozier – Offered thoughts (described as “A Few (Hopefully at Least One Helpful) Thoughts from Tex”). - Derrick Jackson – Expressed support for police. Discussion Items - Board of Bids and Contracts (May 12, 2025): Received and filed report; contracts approved. - Petitions for Public Improvements: Approved new petitions, budgets, and resolutions for water, storm, sanitary, and paving improvements for Betzen Addition and Pegasus Addition (multiple resolutions). - Unfinished Business – Industrial Revenue Bonds for WAM 4200, LLC: Public hearing closed; resolution adopted to issue a letter of intent for bonds for a project at 4200 W. Harry (District IV). - New Council Business: 1. Retirement Systems Actuarial Valuations: Received and filed the 2024 valuations for Wichita Employees’ Retirement and Police and Fire Retirement; approved 2026 employer contribution rates. 2. Affordable Housing Fund Allocation: Approved up to $1,806,051 total: $520,000 for Hope Community Development Corporation, $560,000 for Large Enterprise, $240,000 for Sampayo Capital Group, LLC, and $486,051 for Wichita Habitat for Humanity. Funds to be used for 47 single-family homes. 3. O.J. Watson Park Improvements (2025): Initiated project, adopted bonding resolution for park improvements and public art (District III). 4. Beverage Services for Municipal Golf Courses: Approved vendor selection and contract. 5. Ice Center Management Change: Approved contract assignment for the ice center (District IV). 6. Item pulled: Pre-employment physical examinations and drug/alcohol screens (removed with City Manager approval). 7. Water Reuse Alternatives Study: Approved project, budget, contract; adopted resolution for a study on water reuse. 8. MAPD Application Fee Increase: Adopted ordinance endorsing the 2024 Metropolitan Area Planning Department fee increase. 9. SoCe Corner Community Improvement District: Accepted petition and adopted resolution setting a public hearing on creating a CID (District III). - Planning Agenda (Non-Consent): 1. Conditional Use for Accessory Apartment (1632 N. Nevada Court): Recommended adoption of MAPC findings and approval (requires 4 of 7 votes). 2. Zone Change Withdrawn (ZON2024-00051): Acknowledged withdrawal; no further action. 3. Vacation of Setback and Utility Easement (301 S. Terrace Drive): Followed MAPC recommendation to approve vacation order for setback (simple majority of 4 votes). 4. Zone Change to NR (1200 N. Waco Avenue): Adopted MAPC findings and approved zone change from TF-3 to Neighborhood Retail (requires 4 of 7 votes). - Airport Agenda: Approved Wichita State University Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) use and lease agreement at Col. James Jabara Airport. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved en bloc (all 21 items). - Public Agenda: No action taken; items referred to City Manager for information. - Votes on Planning Items: - Conditional use for accessory apartment (CON2025-00041) – Approved (requires 4 of 7; majority of those present). - Zone change ZON2025-00005 (1200 N. Waco) – Approved (requires 4 of 7). - Vacation of setback (VAC2025-00009) – Approved (simple majority of 4). - Zone change ZON2024-00051 – Withdrawn. - Industrial Revenue Bonds for WAM 4200, LLC: Resolution adopted. - Affordable Housing Fund: Expenditure approved up to $1,806,051. - O.J. Watson Park Improvements: Project initiated and bonding resolution adopted. - Water Reuse Alternatives Study: Approved with resolution. - MAPD Fee Increase: Ordinance adopted. - Council Travel: All six travel requests approved (Mayor Wu to LKM and Paris Air Show; Council Members Johnson and Ballard to NLC City Summit; Council Member Johnson to Local Progress and NBC-LEO conferences; Council Member Hoheisel to NLC City Summit).

The Wichita City Council held its regular meeting on May 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting covered proclamations, public comments, consent items, and discussions on economic development, housing, park improvements, water sustainability, zoning, and airport leases. Proclamations - The Council proclaimed May 2025 as Bike Month, May 14, 2025 as Wichita Facility Management Day, and May 12–16, 2025 as Law Week. Representatives from Bike Walk Wichita, IFMA, and the Wichita Bar Association accepted the proclamations. Public Comments & Testimony - Arthur Stokes advocated for stricter regulations on black mold, describing landlord retaliation and health impacts. Councilmember Hoheisel noted a May 27th workshop on potential new ordinances and a statewide inspection standard for Section 8 housing related to mold. - Crystal Diane Sigler advocated for tiny home villages for the homeless, citing the 2024 Point-in-Time Count (691 homeless persons, 21% unsheltered, a 25% increase in unsheltered). Housing Director Sally Stang noted multi-family units are more cost-effective and detailed plans for a 75-unit building at the MAC with 50 permanent supportive housing units. - Sybil Strum expressed deep distress over the city's actions regarding her property since 1998. City Manager Leighton detailed staff efforts to assist her, which Ms. Strum disputed. The matter was deferred from a full bench discussion. - Derrick Jackson publicly absolved the city and police officers involved in his wife's case, thanking Councilmember Johnson for his empathy and stating no further charges would be brought in his name. - Joseph Tex Dozier was listed on the agenda but did not appear to speak. Consent Calendar - The Council approved Consent Agenda Items 1 through 21 by a 7-0 vote, including routine licenses, contracts, preliminary estimates, project closeouts, community event permits, property sales, and numerous second-reading ordinances for infrastructure assessments. Discussion Items - Board of Bids and Contracts (May 12, 2025): Approved 7-0. Key awards included the 2025 Sidewalk Maintenance ($709,525) and 2025 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation ($417,026). - Petitions for Public Improvements: Approved 7-0 for water, sewer, and paving improvements in the Betzen and Pegasus additions. - V-1: Industrial Revenue Bonds for WAM 4200, LLC: The Council closed the public hearing and approved the IRB resolution 7-0 after a cost-benefit analysis update (City benefit ratio 1.42 to 1) and discussion of job creation criteria. The applicant plans to attract aircraft manufacturing tenants. - VI-1: Actuarial Valuation Reports: Approved 7-0. Funded ratios are 88% (WER) and 87% (Police/Fire), placing Wichita in the top 25% of public pension plans nationally. The 2026 employer contribution rates were set. - VI-2: Affordable Housing Fund Allocation: Approved 6-0 (Councilmember Johnson abstained due to a conflict of interest). $1,846,051 was allocated to Hope CDC, Large Enterprise, Sampayo Capital Group, and Wichita Habitat for Humanity for the rehabilitation of 47 single-family homes. - VI-3: O.J. Watson Park Improvements: Approved 7-0. $425,000 in bond funding was authorized for erosion mitigation, pony stable drainage improvements, and public art (murals/sculptures) to improve accessibility and wayfinding. - VI-4 & VI-5: Golf Course Beverages & Ice Center Management: Approved 7-0. Pepsi was selected as the vendor for golf course snack bars. The Ice Center management contract was assigned from RMSC to SFC. - VI-7: Water Reuse Alternatives Study: Approved 7-0. A $1.2 million contract with CDM Smith was approved to study direct potable reuse (DPR) and industrial reuse. Staff noted DPR could potentially provide up to half of the city's average daily demand (50 MGD) and help position Wichita as a leader in Kansas. A robust public engagement plan is included. - VI-8: MAPD Fee Increase: Approved 7-0. Application fees will increase by 10% (first increase since 2018), effective July 1, 2025, to improve cost recovery from 21-23% to 27%. - VI-9: SoCe Corner CID: Approved 7-0. The Council accepted the petition and set a public hearing for June 10, 2025, to consider a Community Improvement District for a $2.6M mixed-use development at Lincoln and Broadway. A 10% allocation will benefit the Firefighter Memorial. - IX-1: WSU Tech Lease Agreement (Jabara Airport): Acting as the Airport Authority, the Council approved a 31-year lease for 9.6 acres at Colonel James Jabara Airport 6-0 (Councilmember Tuttle abstained due to a conflict of interest). WSU Tech will build an 85,000 sq ft hangar for aviation workforce development, including professional pilot and advanced air mobility programs. Non-Consent Planning Items - VII-1: Accessory Apartment (1632 N Nevada Ct): The Council voted 7-0 to approve the conditional use with an added DAB condition requiring a gabled roof to better match the neighborhood. - VII-3: Vacation Request (301 S Terrace Dr): The Council voted 7-0 to approve the setback vacation but deny the utility easement vacation, following the MAPC recommendation. - VII-4: Zone Change - Bin Store (1200 N Waco): The Council voted 7-0 to override the MAPC and deny the rezoning from TF-3 to NR, agreeing with DAB findings that the business created traffic issues, visual clutter, and had been operating in violation of the zoning code. Key Outcomes (Votes, Directives, Appointments) - Votes: All main motions passed unanimously (7-0) except where specific abstentions were noted. - Directives: Staff will bring the five-year lookback report on IRBs to the public. The water reuse study will launch immediately. Council travel expenses will be posted on the city website for transparency. - Appointments: Dan Bateman (DAB), Jack Silver (Diversity & Inclusion Board), and David Gao (Fire & Police Retirement Board) were appointed. - Travel: Council travel authorizations for Mayor Wu (League of Kansas Municipalities, Paris Air Show), Councilmembers Johnson and Ballard (NLC City Summit), Councilmember Johnson (Local Progress, NBCLEO), and Councilmember Hoheisel (NLC City Summit) were approved 7-0. - Future Meetings: A workshop on potential tenant protection and mold ordinances is scheduled for May 27, 2025.

The Wichita City Council met on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Council Chambers at 455 N. Main Street. The meeting opened with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by proclamations, awards, and a lengthy agenda covering consent items, public hearings, new council business, planning matters, and council member actions. Numerous items were discussed and voted on, including housing bond approvals, federal grant allocations, zoning changes, and tourism funding. Proclamations & Awards - Provider Appreciation Day – May 9, 2025, proclaimed. Mandy Waugh of Child Start spoke in support, and Councilmember Becky Tuttle was recognized with an Early Education Advocate Award. - Water Safety Month – May 2025 proclaimed. A speaker noted formal swimming lessons can reduce drowning risk by 88% among young children. - Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month – May 2025 proclaimed. Sonali Gurlicker, president of the Wichita Asian Association, highlighted cultural events and the upcoming Wichita Asian Festival on September 27. - Service Award – Dean Mefford, Airport Department, recognized for 24 years and 7 months of service. Consent Calendar The consent agenda (items 1–37) was adopted with a 7-0 vote after pulling four items for separate discussion: Item 3B (real estate consultant contract for Douglas Avenue), Item 8 (approval of offers for the same project), Item 6 (Visit Wichita financial reports and lease), and Item 11 (MABCD fee waivers for LIHTC projects). Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Diller, Ronald McDonald House Charities Wichita: Described the organization’s mission to provide free housing for families of sick children. Noted a sharp increase in hotel stays for overflow families – 221 nights through April 2025 vs. 133 in all of 2024. Invited community support. - Nancy Bradfield, Rosie’s Snuggle Bunnies Pet Therapy: Presented the nonprofit’s work with therapy rabbits and pygmy goats for veterans, hospice patients, and others. Announced a new Veteran Emotional Support Animal Program. Asked for volunteer recruitment and business partnerships. - Shani Alston and Tim Marie Burroughs, homeless advocates: Spoke about their nonprofit Grassroots Bridge Builders, working to launch a mobile unit providing showers and peer support for the homeless. Asked for community support. - Celeste Rossette (public comment on consent item 6): Criticized Visit Wichita’s spending, lease at Waterwalk, and lack of competitive bidding for tourism services. Suggested moving tourism to the former public library building. Questioned $7 million in annual T-bid and transient guest tax funds and the organization’s $3 million cash reserves. - Cortland Redding (public comment on 721 W Maple): Asked about parking ratios and fire suppression system type for the proposed apartment development. Discussion Items - Items 3B and 8 (Pulled Consents): Contract for real estate consultant services for Douglas Avenue (Seneca to Meridian) at $358,000 ($2,990 per parcel) and approval of offers for property acquisitions. Staff clarified the consultant will start offers after contract approval. Councilmember Glasscock questioned the short timeline and in-house capacity. Both items approved 7-0. - Item 6 (Pulled Consent): Visit Wichita’s independent auditor’s report and lease. Councilmember Hoheisel asked about the 10-year lease locking in space until 2032. Visit Wichita CEO Susie Santo explained the rent is $95,000 per year, with total costs of $207,000. Public comment from Celeste Rossette criticized the arrangement. City Manager Leighton noted reusing the old public library would require $10–17 million in renovations. The report was received and filed (7-0). - Item 11 (Pulled Consent): MABCD fee waivers for Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) projects. Councilmember Hoheisel discussed the process and federal tax credit availability. The resolution was approved 7-0. - Board of Bids and Contracts (May 5): Approved 7-0. Included notable bids: River Corridor Improvement West Bank ($6.8M to Dondlinger), Holy Oak Water Main replacement ($447,600 to Barkley Construction – a new vendor aggressively pricing). - Petitions for Public Improvements: Approved 7-0 for several new residential developments (Abilene Place, Pierpoint Acres, Oak Tree, Bridger at Central). All funded by special assessments. - 721 W Maple Multifamily Revenue Bonds: Public hearing held. Developer proposes 36 units (18 one-bedroom, 18 two-bedroom) near downtown Delano, with 75% property tax abatement estimated at $43,000 in first year. Cost-benefit ratio for city: 1.47:1. The developer noted using replicable designs to reduce future costs. Council discussed parking (one space per unit) and code barriers for four-story construction. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - WAM 4200 LLC Industrial Revenue Bonds: Deferred to May 13, 2025, per staff recommendation (7-0). - Assessments for September 2025 Bond Sale (Series 836): Public hearing on 85 projects totaling $24.5 million. Approved 7-0. - Hyatt Funds Reallocation (District 1): $73,450 reallocated from unused District 1 Hyatt proceeds to Park & Recreation: $49,450 for youth football scholarships (430 scholarships) and $24,000 for free swim days at McAfee Pool (11 Saturdays in 2025, 5 in 2026). Ordinance placed on first reading 7-0. - Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) 2026 Scope of Services: Approved 7-0. Budget of $3.9 million from visitor-paid fees. Visit Wichita reported $263 million economic impact in 2024. Discussed upcoming events (figure skating, NAIA wrestling, NCAA March Madness) and the TBEX travel blogger summit in October. Councilmembers suggested adding local cultural sites. - Wichita River Festival (May 30–June 7, 2025): Approved licensing report, street closures, and permit per MOU with WFI. Vote 7-0. - Urban Growth Area near 55th Street South and Ridge Road: Initiated comprehensive plan amendment review to examine future land use, contamination, and municipal service extensions. Vote 7-0. - Summer Camp Bus Transportation: Approved vendor selection of First Student at $95 per bus hour, estimated $102,000 for 2025. Vote 7-0. - 2025-2026 HUD Annual Action Plan: Public hearing held. Plan allocates $2.7M CDBG for infrastructure, $1.2M for housing, $1.1M for public services, $11M HOME program funds, etc. Staff noted federal allocations not yet finalized but within expected range. Council discussed homelessness strategies, including a new encampment coordinator (Lacey Stanberry) and a pilot program to address 25% return-to-homelessness rate. Approved 6-0 (Councilmember Johnson abstained due to conflict). - HOME Program for Ark River Residences: Conditional commitment of $420,000 for 42 affordable units by Commonwealth Development. Vote 5-0 (Johnson abstained). - HOME Program for 212 N Market Project: Conditional commitment of $680,000 for adaptive reuse of historic Elks Lodge into 68 affordable units, partnering with Mennonite Housing. Vote 5-0 (Johnson abstained). - CUP2025-00006 (Warehouse Self-Storage at 6803 W Taft): Approved with modifications per District IV DAB recommendation, allowing up to 30% metal on north and east facades, and full metal on west and south facades. Overrode MAPC recommendation to deny metal. Vote 6-0. - ZON2025-00005 (Zone Change at 1200 N Waco): Deferred to May 13 meeting (6-0). - DER2024-00008 (Daycare General Use in Residential Zones): Approved ordinance amendment to allow daycare general (more than 12 children) via administrative permit in certain residential districts, limiting to children under 16. First reading passed 6-0. - Council Member Agenda: Approved exceeding gift limit for Mayor Wu to accept travel expenses ($1,112) for the Heartland Summit in Bentonville, AR (May 6–9). Vote 7-0. - Appointments: Councilmember Dalton Glasscock appointed to Wichita Sister Cities Organization. Approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - Approved Items (all 7-0 unless noted): Consent agenda (with four items pulled and individually approved), Board of Bids and Contracts, Petitions for Public Improvements, 721 W Maple revenue bonds resolution, Hyatt funds reallocation ordinance (first reading), TBID 2026 scope, River Festival license, summer camp bus contract, HUD Annual Action Plan (6-0, one abstention), HOME commitments for Ark River and 212 N Market (both 5-0, one abstention), CUP2025-00006 with DAB modifications (6-0), daycare zoning amendment (6-0), Mayor Wu travel gift waiver. - Deferred Items: WAM 4200 LLC revenue bonds to May 13; ZON2025-00005 to May 13. - Initiated Process: Comprehensive plan amendment review for 55th Street and Ridge Road. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at approximately 12:30 PM after a break. Final vote 5-1 (one nay on adjournment).