04/17/2024
Topeka on Notice.
Summary for City Council Meeting April 9, 2024
Topeka City, Shawnee County, Kansas
2024-04-10
The meeting of the governing body on April 9th was called to order with a prayer for wisdom in selecting a new city manager
A proclamation was made by the mayor acknowledging Law Day and emphasizing the importance of democracy and unity in American history
The Topeka Sustainability Advisory Board presented their annual update, highlighting the need for a full-time sustainability coordinator position to advance environmental initiatives and secure federal funding
Discussion on the importance of visualizing recommendations and contrasts to make them less abstract and more tangible for the public
Emphasis on the need for proactive sustainability initiatives rather than reactive approaches in cities like Topeka
A Cub Scout's plea for sustainability actions to preserve nature, save money, and inspire positive change in the community
Announcement of an upcoming event at Party for the Planet to promote recycling and planting initiatives
Proposal to vacate a portion of the island in Southwest Steeplechase Lane in Topeka
Details of a major reconstruction project at the intersection of 21st Street and Topeka Boulevard in Topeka
Excitement over a significant street maintenance project in the High Crest neighborhood, including details of the scope and timeline
Discussion about additional funding for operations and maintenance of Hotel Topeka introduced by interim city manager Richard Neinstead.
Request for additional operating funds to help keep the hotel going due to operational deficiencies.
Explanation of the breakdown of the $1,000,000 spent on the hotel and the need for more operational funding.
Approval of the resolution for additional funding with 7 yes votes and 4 no votes.
Discussion item regarding an additional budget allocation to the Soar manager and support for Councilwoman Ortiz's motion.
Importance of community pride reflected in the maintenance of parks and cemeteries.
Support for additional funding for the cemetery and appreciation for the work done there.
Encouragement for colleagues to support funding for the cemetery and participation in cleanup activities.
Recognition of the cemetery's historical significance and the volunteer efforts to maintain it.
Discussion about the cemetery board members and their roles, including the president, incoming superintendent, and board member Carol Glossbach.
Motion to suspend the rules and make an action item for the purchase of a backhoe motor, followed by a successful vote.
Anecdote shared about ghost stories and experiences at the cemetery during late-night shifts as a police officer.
Discussion of the proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for 2025-2034 and the need for thorough review and approval process.
Councilman Duncan's proposal to allocate funds annually to the Performing Arts Center for capital improvements and the process for project approval.
Councilwoman Miller's inquiry about available backup for a significant sum of money allocated for various projects.
Public comment regarding evictions at Topeka Timbers Caravan Mobile Home Park due to rent payment issues under the new owner.
Issues with the new owner of the trailer park include shady business dealings, lack of lease agreements, neglect of park maintenance, and threats of rent increases and individual water meters.
Concerns about safety hazards in the trailer park, including road conditions, water line ruptures, lack of communication, and the need for urgent help for disabled residents.
Request for an ordinance to address unsafe trees in the area, highlighting past offers to address the issue and emphasizing the need for protection from overgrown trees.
Advocacy for sustainability initiatives and the appointment of a full-time sustainability coordinator to address environmental challenges and climate change in the region.
Discussion on potential infrastructure projects, economic development opportunities, and the importance of considering leasing versus owning properties for community growth and financial sustainability.
Announcement of upcoming agenda items, including proclamations, resolutions for noise exceptions and special events, professional services contracts, and discussions on revenue bonds and utility system improvements.
Notification of road closures in the industrial area, urging residents to plan alternate routes due to construction projects and emphasizing safety precautions to avoid accidents during closures.
Discussion on recent projects and project approval process, acknowledging councilman Dobler's leadership.
Appreciation expressed for staff, city manager candidates, and public involvement in the city manager hiring process.
Update on issues in a mobile home park, efforts made to address complaints, and challenges faced in providing assistance.
Recognition of individuals interviewed for the city manager position and gratitude for their time and interest in Topeka.
Announcement regarding tax day activities in Topeka and the impact on economic development.
Acknowledgment of the collaborative decision-making process for selecting the city manager and appreciation for the dedication of coaches and students in sports.
Discussion and decision-making during a council meeting, including adjourning into executive sessions and extending meeting time.
Entertaining motions to go into a second executive session beyond the normal deadline, with council members voting in favor.
Reading the motion to recess into a second executive session to discuss city manager candidates, with specific individuals present.
Need for a second motion to adjourn into another executive session, with council members voting in favor.
Conclusion of the 2nd executive session with no decisions made and the meeting being adjourned.
Count the meetings on Sustainability word in the council's agenda. Topeka is gearing up to take your Constitutional rights away.
Your city leadership needs to be investigated. Not everyone understands what is going on.
