Governing Body — Topeka, KS
Date: 2025-01-14

City Council Chambers 214 SE 8th St.
 2nd Floor Topeka, KS 66603
 https://www.topeka.org




 Governing Body Agenda
 January 14, 2025
 6:00 PM

 Mayor: Michael A. Padilla
 Councilmembers
Karen A. Hiller District No. 1 Marcus D.L. Miller District No. 6
Christina Valdivia-Alcala District No. 2 Neil Dobler District No. 7
Sylvia E. Ortiz District No. 3 Spencer Duncan District No. 8
David Banks District No. 4 Michelle Hoferer District No. 9
Brett D. Kell District No. 5
 City Manager: Dr. Robert M. Perez


Addressing the Governing Body: Public comment for the meeting will be available via Zoom or in-person. Individuals
must contact the City Clerk's Office at 785-368-3940 or via email at cclerk@topeka.org by no later than 5:00 p.m. on the
date of the meeting, after which the City Clerk's Office will provide Zoom link information and protocols prior to the
meeting. View the meeting online at https://www.topeka.org/communications/live-stream/ or at
https://www.facebook.com/cityoftopeka/.
Written public comment may also be considered to the extent it is personally submitted at the meeting or to the City
Clerk's Office located at 215 SE 7th Street, Room 166, Topeka, Kansas, 66603 or via email at cclerk@topeka.org on or
before the date of the meeting for attachment to the meeting minutes.
If you need any accommodations for the meeting, please contact the City ADA Coordinator at 785-368-4470. Kansas
Relay Service at 800-766-3777. Please provide a 48 Hour Notice if possible. Assistive listening devices are available for
use in the community forum.
Agendas are available by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday in the City Clerk's Office, 215 SE 7th Street, Room 166, Topeka,
Kansas, 66603 or on the City's website at https://www.topeka.org.
CALL TO ORDER:
INVOCATION:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
1. ROLL CALL:
2. MAYORAL PROCLAMATIONS:
 National Religious Freedom Day
3. PRESENTATIONS:
 2025 Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Utilization Goal
 Recommendation
 Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) Update
 Prevention and Resiliency Services (PARS) Funding Overview

4. CONSENT AGENDA:
 A. MINUTES of the regular meeting of December 17, 2024:
 B. APPLICATIONS:

5. ACTION ITEMS:
 A. Resolution - Hotel Topeka Funding Request - Site Repair/Improvements

 RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding additional funding
 for site repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka.

 Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

 (Approval would authorize additional funding for site repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka in the
 amount of $142,338.)

 B. Resolution - Hotel Topeka Funding Request - Elevator Repair

 RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding a capital request for
 service elevator repair at Hotel Topeka.

 Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

 (Approval would authorize an additional funding request of $32,191.55.)

 C. Election of Deputy Mayor

 ELECTION of Deputy Mayor to serve a one-year term pursuant to Topeka Municipal Code
 Section A2-26(c).

 Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

 (The Deputy Mayor shall serve in the absence or temporary disability of the Mayor for a one-year
 term ending in January 2026.)
6. NON-ACTION ITEMS:
 A. Discussion - Strategies Against Violence Everywhere (S.A.V.E.) - 2025 Assignment of Rights
 Agreement

 DISCUSSION on the execution of an agreement for assigning interests and rights from the
 Boys and Girls Club of Topeka to S.A.V.E., Inc., (Strategies Against Violence Everywhere) for
 the disbursement of 2025 funding.

 (S.A.V.E., Inc., as the Grantee will provide administration of the S.A.V.E program in 2025.)

7. PUBLIC COMMENT:
 Public comment for the meeting will be available via Zoom or in-person.
 Individuals must contact the City Clerk's Office at 785-368-3940 or via email at
 cclerk@topeka.org by no later than 5:00 p.m. on the date of the meeting, after
 which the City Clerk's Office will provide Zoom link information and protocols
 prior to the meeting. Written public comment may also be considered to the
 extent it is personally submitted at the meeting or to the City Clerk's Office
 located at 215 SE 7th Street, Room 166, Topeka, Kansas, 66603 or via email at
 cclerk@topeka.org on or before the date of the meeting for attachment to the
 meeting minutes. View the meeting online at
 https://www.topeka.org/communications/live-stream/ or at
 https://www.facebook.com/cityoftopeka/.
8. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
9. EXECUTIVE SESSION:
 Executive Sessions are closed meetings held in accordance with the provisions of the Kansas
 Open Meetings Act.

 (Executive sessions will be scheduled as needed and may include topics such as personnel
 matters, considerations of acquisition of property for public purposes, potential or pending litigation
 in which the city has an interest, employer-employee negotiations and any other matter provided for
 in K.S.A. 75-4319.)
10. ADJOURNMENT:
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: Mayor Padilla DOCUMENT #:
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: Chris Hamilton, PROJECT #:
 President of Interfaith
 Topeka
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: JOURNAL #:
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:
 National Religious Freedom Day
VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
POLICY ISSUE:
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
BACKGROUND:
BUDGETARY IMPACT:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
National Religious Freedom Day
 PROCLAMATION
 By the Mayor
WHEREAS, January 16, 2025, is recognized as National Religious Freedom Day, a day to
celebrate and reaffirm the fundamental right of religious freedom for all citizens; and

WHEREAS, religion has its greatest impact not at the national level but at the local level, where
people of faith live by their convictions and serve and bless others on a one-on-one basis,
fostering a sense of community and mutual support; and

WHEREAS, religion benefits our community by providing a moral compass, fostering love, and
offering strength during loss; for decades, religious institutions and people of faith have played a
crucial role in our city through charitable activities, aiding the needy, comforting those in loss, and
encouraging us to high standards of integrity; and

WHEREAS, the United States Constitution and the Kansas Constitution affirm the right of all
citizens to freely exercise their religious faith or nonreligious beliefs in the public square without
being deprived of other rights or privileges; and

WHEREAS, we all benefit from a pluralistic society where residents of all beliefs work together for
the common good while holding divergent viewpoints, and where all citizens are free to exercise
such influence as their ideas and values may engender; and

WHEREAS, Topeka welcomes and protects people of diverse backgrounds by allowing them to
freely live according to their deeply held convictions as protected by law; and

WHEREAS, Topeka encourages all residents to strive to understand the experiences and
concerns of others while supporting the essential role religion plays in protecting human dignity,
strengthening society, and fostering a culture of tolerance and peace.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael A. Padilla, Mayor of Topeka, Kansas, do hereby proclaim
January 16, 2025, as:


 National Religious Freedom Day
In the City of Topeka.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I, Michael A. Padilla, Mayor
 of the City of Topeka, Kansas, do hereby affix my official
 signature and the Official Seal of the City of Topeka,
 Kansas, on this day 14th, of January, 2025.


 ___________________________________________
 Michael A. Padilla, Mayor, City of Topeka
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: Luis Matos, DOCUMENT #:
 Procurement Manager;
 Amanda Stanley, City
 Attorney; Mandy
 Czechanski, PARS
 Executive Director
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: 2025 M/W/DBE PROJECT #:
 Utilization Goals
 Contracts and
 Procurement Division
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY 006 Communication / 005 Other
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: JOURNAL #:
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:
 2025 Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Utilization Goal
 Recommendation
 Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) Update
 Prevention and Resiliency Services (PARS) Funding Overview
VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
POLICY ISSUE:
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
BACKGROUND:
2025 Annual Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises Utilization Goal
Recommendation: The Program Review Committee (“Committee”) is governed by the Topeka Municipal Code
(“TMC”) and directed by the Program Review Committee Regulations document (“Regulations”) related to the
utilization and participation of minority business enterprises, women business enterprises, and disadvantaged
business enterprises (“M/W/DBE”). The Committee is responsible for establishing and presenting annual goals to
the City Manager for the utilization of M/W/DBE businesses as part of the objectives set forth in TMC
3.30.460(b)(3).
BUDGETARY IMPACT:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
2025 Annual M/W/DBE Utilization Goal Recommendation Memo - Program Review Committee
Members (Dec 15, 2024)
2025 Annual M/W/DBE Utilization Goal Recommendation Presentation - Luis Matos
TMC Code Section 3.30.460
JEDO Presentation
PARS Presentation
 Contracts & Procurement Division procurement@topeka.org
 City Hall, 215 SE 7th St., Room 60 Tel: 785-368-3749
 Topeka, KS 66603 Fax: 785-368-4499




 To: Robert M. Perez, Ph.D., City Manager
 From: Program Review Committee Members
 Pamela Foster, Director of Human Resources
 Braxton Copley, Assistant City Manager, Infrastructure and Development
 Ben Hart, Interim Chief Financial Officer
 Monique Glaude, Chief DEI Officer
 Leigha Boling, Division Director of Procurement & Grant Management
 Luis Matos, Procurement Manager, PRCLO
 Date: December 15, 2024
 Subject: 2025 Annual M/W/DBE Utilization Goal Recommendation

The Program Review Committee (“Committee”) is established and operates pursuant to the Topeka Municipal
Code (“TMC”) and directed by the Program Review Committee Regulations document (“Regulations”), which
pertain to the utilization and participation of Minority Business Enterprises, Women Business Enterprises, and
Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (“M/W/DBE”). The Committee is responsible for establishing and presenting
annual goals to the City Manager for the utilization of M/W/DBE businesses as part of the objectives set forth in
TMC 3.30.460(b)(3).

  Goal Review
As of November 18, 2024, the City has issued 174 bids to the public. Of these, 131 included participation from
M/W/DBEs. Among the 131 bids with M/W/DBE participation, the city awarded 51 of those bids to diverse
businesses, achieving a utilization rate of 38.93%. Based on end-of-year projections, the City is on track to meet
its 2024 goal of 40% M/W/DBE utilization.

 Utilization Goal History
 Year Utilization Goal Actual Utilization
 2021 35% 45%
 2022 35% 41%
 2023 39% 41%
 2024 40% 39%
 2025 40%

  2025 Goal
For fiscal year 2025, the Committee is recommending a goal of 40% M/W/DBE utilization. The Committee
endorses this goal in consideration of previous utilization rates, the current market environment, and economic
indicators. The Committee strongly believes that this goal is attainable under the guidance of city leadership,
which fosters an atmosphere of fairness, equity, and inclusion, and emphasizes engagement with the local
diverse business community. While inflation has moderated, contributing to easing wage pressures and cost
stabilization, challenges are expected amidst fluctuating market conditions. These factors suggest continued

 Page 1 of 2
economic stability, though caution is warranted given potential shifts in key industries and broader economic
uncertainties.

 Recommended Actions
The Committee will take the following actions to increase collaboration and cultivate a stronger diverse business
ecosystem:

 1. Social Media Strategy
 a. Showcase success stories of projects bid that are awarded to diverse businesses.
 b. Increase awareness by highlighting educational resources on the City’s procurement process and
 how to become a registered vendor to offer goods and services to the City.

 2. Strengthening Engagement with Diverse Businesses
 a. Identify and actively participate in workshops hosted by community partners to engage with
 diverse business communities.
 b. Schedule at least two bilingual sessions on City vendor registration and bid processes, offered
 both in-person and virtually with flexible scheduling, i.e. Saturday or weekday evenings.
 c. Partner with the Greater Topeka Partnership (GTP) to host one workshop per quarter on doing
 business with the City and actively engaging in GoTopeka-led roundtables and community
 events to connect with the diverse business community.

 3. Supplier Diversity Expo
 a. Build on the success of Topeka's participation in the NLC City Inclusive Entrepreneurship
 Program and the 2024 Anchor Procurement initiative, the City will host a 2025 Supplier Diversity
 Expo in the third quarter. This event will be supported by sponsorships from participating
 Anchor Institutions, which are well-established organizations that play a significant and enduring
 role in the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the community.




 Page 2 of 2
 2025
 Annual M/W/DBE
 Utilization Goal
TMC 3.30.460(b)(3)
| Agenda 2


3| Code Overview
4| 2024 Goal
5| 2025 Goal
6| 2025 Recommended Actions
7| 2025 Recommended Actions (Cont.)
8| Questions
| Code Overview 3


The Program Review Committee is outlined under TMC 3.30.460(b)(3). The
Committee is comprised of city staff, who are responsible for creating and
reporting on goals for the utilization and participation of minority, women, and
disadvantaged business enterprises (“M/W/DBE”). Per code, Committee
responsibilities include:
 1. Presenting annual goals to the City Manager for the utilization of
 M/W/DBE businesses;
 2. Reviewing and analyzing, on a quarterly basis, current utilization to
 achieve those goals; and
 3. Reporting to the Governing Body on a quarterly basis, through the City
 Manager, the utilization of M/W/DBE businesses (published in each
 Quarterly Financial Report).
| 2024 Goal 4


The M/W/DBE utilization goal for 2024 was 40%.



1. In 2024, the city issued 174 bids to the public.
2. The city received diverse vendor participation on 131 of those bids.
3. From the 131, the city awarded 51 to diverse vendors, totaling 38.93%
 M/W/DBE utilization. *

*Data reflects information available at the drafting of the 2025 Goals Memo, dated December 15, 2024, and current as of
November 18, 2024
| 2025 Goal 5


For 2025, the Committee recommends a 40% M/W/DBE utilization goal. The
Program Review Committee created this goal in consideration of:



1. Utilization of previous years;
2. The current market environment and economic indicators; and
3. Amplified engagement with the diverse business community, building
 on 2024’s momentum and collaboration with valued partners.
| 2025 Recommended Actions 6


1. Highlight success stories of awarded projects to diverse businesses while
 promoting educational resources on the City’s procurement process
 and how to become a registered vendor.
2. Actively participate in community partner workshops, schedule
 bilingual sessions on City vendor registration and bid processes, and
 collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to host quarterly
 workshops and engage in GoTopeka-led roundtables and events.
| 2025 Recommended Actions (Cont.) 7


3. Building on the success of the NLC City Inclusive Entrepreneurship
 Program and the 2024 Anchor Procurement initiative, the City will host
 a 2025 Supplier Diversity Expo with support from sponsorships by Anchor
 Institutions.
 8




QUESTIONS?
Ch. 3.30 Contracts and Purchases | Topeka Municipal Code Page 1 of 2




3.30.460 Affirmative action programs.

(a) Submission of Program. All persons seeking to enter into a contract with the City shall submit in writing to the
Contracts and Procurement Division either an affirmative action program, a certificate of compliance, or such
other certificate as is acceptable to the Contracts and Procurement Division which evidences the adoption of an
affirmative action program. Such affirmative action program, certificate of compliance or other certificate shall be
approved and on file with the Contracts and Procurement Division, or such plan shall be submitted with the
contract bid. If no affirmative action plan is submitted with the contract bid, the bid will be considered
nonresponsive and will not be accepted. If any person shall fail or refuse to submit an affirmative action program
as required by this article, such person shall be ineligible to enter into any City contract until the person has so
complied.

(b) Review by Contracts and Procurement Division.

 (1) Affirmative Action Program. The Contracts and Procurement Division shall receive and review affirmative
 action programs submitted to it, and shall approve any such program or shall specify in writing any
 modification of the program needed to make it conform to the requirements of this article; provided, that
 prior to final rejection of the program, the Contracts and Procurement Division shall advise and consult with
 the person submitting such program for the purpose of assisting the person to develop an acceptable
 affirmative action program.

 (2) Certificates of Compliance. The Contracts and Procurement Division shall receive and accept certificates of
 compliance as conforming with the terms of this article respecting submission of affirmative action programs.

 (3) Program Review Committee. A Program Review Committee shall be established for the purpose of
 reviewing and evaluating the City’s minority business enterprise, women business enterprise and
 disadvantaged business enterprise utilization. The Committee members shall be designated by the City
 Manager. There shall be at least three members of the Committee and other members may be added by the
 City Manager. The Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, the Director of the Public Works Department,
 and the Director of the Contracts and Procurement Division shall all be members of the committee. All
 recommendations and determinations of the review committee may be appealed to the City Manager, whose
 decision shall be final and binding. The committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities:

 (i) Establish, on an annual basis, percentage goals for the utilization of minority business enterprise,
 women business enterprise and disadvantaged business enterprise participation on City contracts. Goals
 shall be established upon consideration of the following factors: the number and type of contracts to be
 awarded, the number and type of minority, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged
 contractors available, and past results of the City’s minority business enterprise, women business
 enterprise and disadvantaged business enterprise utilization.

 (ii) Review and analyze, on a quarterly basis, minority business enterprise, women business enterprise
 and disadvantaged business enterprise requirements, to include evaluating the methods for achieving



 The Topeka Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 20531, passed November 12, 2024.
Ch. 3.30 Contracts and Purchases | Topeka Municipal Code Page 2 of 2


 utilization goals and the guidelines for ascertaining contractors’ compliance with the City’s policies and
 procedures.

 (iii) Report to the Governing Body on a quarterly basis, through the City Manager, the findings from the
 review and analysis of minority business enterprise, women business enterprise and disadvantaged
 business enterprise participation and utilization. The Governing Body shall consider goals for the City’s
 minority business enterprise, women business enterprise and disadvantaged business enterprise
 utilization in conjunction with the annual setting of budget priorities. (Ord. 20400 § 9, 12-20-22; Ord.
 19433 § 2, 6-15-10. Formerly 2.135.130.)

Cross References: City Council – Mayor, Chapter 2.15 TMC; Human Resources Department, TMC 2.20.040; Public
Works Department, TMC 2.20.100; Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, TMC 2.20.120; boards, commissions
and committees, TMC 2.205.010 et seq.




The Topeka Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 20531, passed November 12, 2024.

Disclaimer: The City Clerk’s Office has the official version of the Topeka Municipal Code. Users should contact the
City Clerk’s Office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.

City Website: www.topeka.org

Hosted by General Code.




 The Topeka Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 20531, passed November 12, 2024.
Overview of JEDO
The Joint Economic Development Organization
| Overview of JEDO 2


2|History of JEDO
3|Voting Rights
4|Selection of Members
5|Rotation between City and County
6|Meeting Times
7|Funds Allocation
History 3



• Established by Interlocal Agreement between
  Shawnee County and the City of Topeka in 2001
• JEDO Board is comprised of 13 members
• JEDO is funded through the half cent county wide
  retailers sales tax established by the inter-local
  agreement and is to be used for economic
  development.
Who gets to Vote? 4


• The three Shawnee County Commissioners;
• City of Topeka Mayor;
• Deputy Mayor; and
• Two City Council members
• If the Deputy Mayor or other voting City Council member
  cannot be present at a meeting, an alternate may be selected
  by the absent member with full voting rights. The alternate shall
  be a City Council member of the absent member's choice;
  provided, however, that such alternate may only serve after
  providing the JEDO Chairperson a written proxy from the absent
  member
Nonvoting members are the remaining six Council members
When are the Councilpersons selected? 5



• At the third governing body meeting each January after
  the election of the deputy mayor.
Rotating Chairperson and Administration 6


• The City and County rotate the position of JEDO
  Chairperson with the Mayor serving in odd-numbered years
  pursuant to City of Topeka Resolution No. 7623 and the
  Chairperson of the County Commission serving in even-
  numbered years commencing on January 1 of the
  respective year.
• The City and the County also rotate the administrative
  duties with the City providing those services in odd-
  numbered years and the County doing so in even-
  numbered years.
When does JEDO Meet? 7



• 2nd Wednesday of February, May, September, and
  December
• Meetings are open to the public and televised
• Public comment is allowed on each actionable agenda
  item and at the end of each meeting. Citizens are given
  four minutes to speak and comments must relate to
  topics directly relevant to JEDO business.
How are Funds Spent? 8


(1) $5 million annually for economic development priorities of
JEDO administered through GoTopeka

(2) Remaining split for Infrastructure
 • Fifty-Two Percent (52%) to County for specific projects and
 • Forty-Eight Percent (48%) to the City for specific projects
 • JEDO may alter the distribution formula, or reduce the amount of
 funds allocated for any particular improvement or project. Each
 year, at JEDO's May meeting, the County and the City shall
 distribute an updated priority list, accompanied by a project
 status update, as a matter of information only.
Safe Streets
A Program of Prevention and Resiliency Services
(PARS)




Mandy Czechanski, Executive Director and Isabel Huckins, KSU Doctoral Student and Safe Streets Lead
 A Brief History
• Program initiated in response to an uptick in violent crime in 1994, modeled after
  the Safe Streets Program in Tacoma, Washington.

• 1995 Original Advisory Council formed; first neighborhood watch formed in
  Medford Area

• Focused on neighborhood watches, clean-ups, crime free multi-housing programs,
  recognizing community volunteers, training, and more

• Ultimately started Safe Streets Coalition in 2004
  Where are we now? Where are we going?
The new approach for Safe Streets focuses on identifying the needs of the community from
their perspective and engaging with them in ways that are most meaningful for them. The
leading factors influencing change include:

• A post pandemic culture that has now been thoroughly researched and reflects many
  changes in behavior including the need for individuals to feel connected to their
  community through smaller engagements that are familiar and comfortable.

• The broad use of the internet and development of technology such as cell phones,
  neighborhood apps, ring cameras, and access to unlimited information has changed how
  most individuals prefer to self-educate and engage for meetings and events.
 What did we do in 2024?
Community Education

• 2023 Trends and Goals for 2024
 Speakers: Chief Wheeles and Sheriff Hill (Feb 1, 2024)

• Setting Up for a Safe and Sound Summer
  Speakers: Sgt. Mike Burns, Meterologist Doug Meyers, and TFD PEO Ryan Neill
(May 2, 2024)

• National Night Out - Community Event
  Hosted by PARS with over 30 community partners participating (Aug 6, 2024)

• Education with Community Groups
  Provided education to 34 groups on the topic of their choice.
 What did we do in 2024?
Partnership established with Community Inspired Violence Intervention Coalition (CIVIC)
• Started the year in discussion with Councilwoman Valdivia-Alcala about restructuring. (January 2024)
• Leaders of CIVIC were contacted about collaborating. (February 2024)
• Conversations were initiated with Isabel Huckins to develop a more effective Safe Streets program that would be
  more engaging. (April 5 and 24th, 2024)

• Met with CIVIC leaders to learn about their initiative and determine how best to collaborate. (May 13, 2024)

• Participated in neighborhood door-knocking in preparation for neighborhood Town Hall Meetings. Town Halls
  were held with three communities identified with the highest crime rates in Topeka to hear directly from citizens
  what their neighborhood's needs are and how Safe Streets could potentially support them.
 ▪ June 22nd Central Park Community Center
 ▪ June 24th Oakland Community Center
 ▪ June 29th Hillcrest Community Center
 What did we do in 2024?
Partnership established with Community Inspired Violence Intervention Coalition (CIVIC)
• We engaged "Cities United" for a three-day event in Topeka to engage community stakeholders and begin developing a
 comprehensive strategy to reduce violence in our community with a focus on those who are experiencing it. Attendees
 from city and county governments included the city manager, mayor, members from the city council, Topeka Police
 and Shawnee County Sheriff’s office, and Shawnee Co. departments of Corrections, Parks and Rec, and Health
 Dept. Other organizations included PARS, Omni Circle, SAVE, LiveWell Shawnee County, United Way of Kaw Valley,
 Topeka JUMP, Topeka Center for Peace and Justice, Advisors Excel, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, Stormont Vail
 Health, Topeka Community Foundation and more.. (August 7-9, 2024)

• Through Isabel's leadership, interactions have taken place throughout the months of August-December focused on the
 specific needs of each of the identified neighborhoods. Key focuses were determined, community leads were
 identified in some areas, and next steps have taken place driven by the community with the support of Safe Streets.
 Currently she is currently engaging with over 170 active contacts.

• Hillcrest NIA and the Gil Carter Initiative hosted a health fair for their community on December 13th, connecting us
 with neighbors and helping develop new partnerships with other resource providers in the community. The result
 was follow-up meetings with community organizers and an excellent story on WIBW.
 https://www.wibw.com/2024/12/13/winter-health-fair-offers-vital-services-ahead-cold-winter/
 What did we do in 2024?
Development of Block Talks
• Initiation of community driven “Block Talks” (new way of talking about needs of
  neighborhoods)

• Model focuses on empowering communities to identify and set goals for safety based upon
  what they identify to be the greatest needs in their area

• Focused on people, building relationships and empowering others based on strengths they
  bring to the collaboration

• Refocusing on what communities have identified as their greatest need – connection
• Continuous routine engagements help build trust, awareness, belonging which increase our
  desire to look out for one another
 What did we do in 2024?
What are the members of the community saying?
• Collaboration with neighbors in times of need-Central Park area
• Community Health Fair-NIA Collaboration-with Gil Carter Initiative-Hillcrest
• Individuals reaching out asking how they can start Block Talks in their neighborhoods
  (Downtown)

• New energy creating momentum towards meeting the needs of our neighbors-tailored by our
  neighbors-with our support from the side

• Excitement for what is to come.
 A Challenge
National Night Out
• While the event is popular with those who participate, attendance is waning. In 2024,
  an estimated 1% of the Topeka population participated in the events. In greater Shawnee
  County, less than half of a percent of the population participated.

• In 2022, the PARS Board of Directors clarified the agency mission and NNO no longer falls
  within the mission guidelines. PARS does not offer expertise in crime and law enforcement.

• Planning the event is unsustainable by PARS staff alone. Over 30 community partners
  participated with booths and activities in 2024 but when surveyed, none were
  interested in co-hosting for 2025. The total estimated hours of key staff working on
  the NNO event was over 400 hours in 2024.

• While PARS does not plan to host NNO in 2025, we will offer assistance with
  questions, provide support and resource materials to the new host to help
  successfully transition the event.
Questions
THANK YOU!
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: Braxton Copley, DOCUMENT #:
 Assistant City Manager
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: Hotel Topeka Funding PROJECT #:
 Request
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY 020 Resolutions / 004 Public Improvements
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: JOURNAL #:
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:

RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding additional funding for site
repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka.

Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

(Approval would authorize additional funding for site repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka in the amount of
$142,338.)

VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.
POLICY ISSUE:
Whether to approve request from the Topeka Development Corporation (TDC) for additional funding for site
repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka in the amount of $142,338.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Governing Body move to approve the resolution.
BACKGROUND:
On June 18, 2024, the Governing Body, after receiving and considering the request for funding from the Topeka
Development Corporation (TDC), approved Resolution No. 9549 authorizing $125,662 from the Unauthorized
Reserve Fund for site improvements at Hotel Topeka.
The City has received a request from the TDC for additional funding to cover total cost of the project with the new
estimate of $268,000 for site repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka in the amount of $142,338 from operating
funds and/or general obligation bonds.
BUDGETARY IMPACT:
The Governing Body and the TDC Board originally approved a project budget for the Civil Site Repairs estimated
to be $125,662. The revised project budget is now estimated to be $268,000; which includes additional funding of
$142,338.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
Operating funds or General Obligation bonds.

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Resolution
TOKS Capital Request
Engineer Estimate
 1 RESOLUTION NO. ___________
 2
 3 A RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding additional
 4 funding for site repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka.
 5
 6 WHEREAS, the Governing Body, after receiving and considering the request for

 7 funding from the Topeka Development Corporation (TDC), issued Resolution No. 9549

 8 authorizing $125,662 from the Unauthorized Reserve Fund for site improvements at Hotel

 9 Topeka; and

10 WHEREAS, the City has received a request from the TDC for additional funding to

11 cover total cost of the project with the new estimate of $268,000; and

12 WHEREAS, the Governing Body acknowledges the request for additional funding

13 should be authorized.

14 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE

15 CITY OF TOPEKA, KANSAS, that additional funding for site repair and improvements at

16 Hotel Topeka in the amount of $142,338 from either operating funds or general obligation

17 bonds is hereby authorized.

18 ADOPTED and APPROVED by the Governing Body on .

19 CITY OF TOPEKA, KANSAS
20
21
22
23
24 Michael A. Padilla, Mayor
25 ATTEST:
26
27
28
29 ______________________________
30 Brenda Younger, City Clerk




 RES/Hotel Topeka (Site Improvements #2) 12/30/24 1
Capital Request Form
Location Hotel Topeka at City Center


Scope This is for construction of handicap accessible walkway from Topeka Boulevard to hotel, repairs to the existing sidewalk on the exterior of the building and repairs
 to the existing loading dock on the north side of the hotel ($229,578.14 including taxes). An engineering scope and fee of $15,000 and a contingency fee of 10%
 ($22,957.81 including taxes) are included in the estimate.




 Date Vendor Quote
Proposal #1 12/10/2024 Cook, Flatt & Strobel $ 267,535.95
Proposal #2
Proposal #3 Date
 Approval: Wayne Wazlawik 12/12/2024
 Budget Not Budgeted Actual $ 267,535.95 General Manager
 Date
If Over Budget Why? Approval:
 Regional Director of Operations
 Date
 Approval:
Make sure all proposals at attached
Questions: Do they have workers Compensation insurance
 Copy of insurance with our entity additional insured
 What is the warranty on the work performed




 12/30/2024
HOTEL TOPEKA 12/10/24



 CFS Cook, Flatt & Strobel
CFS PROJ. NO 24-5515
 ENGINEERS, P.A.
 2930 SW Woodside Drive
 Topeka, KS 66614
Engineer's Estimate

 Engineer's Estimate
 Unit Total
 Item Description Quantity Units Cost Cost

  1 Pavement Removal 537 S.Y. $ 40.00 $ 21,480.00
  2 4" Concrete Sidewalk, 5' Wide 1,097 S.F. $ 20.00 $ 21,940.00
  3 4" Concrete Sidewalk, 6' Wide 2,200 S.F. $ 20.00 $ 44,000.00
  4 4" Non-Reinforced Concrete Pavement 148 S.Y. $ 100.00 $ 14,800.00
  5 8" Non-Reinforced Concrete Pavement 28 S.Y. $ 200.00 $ 5,600.00
  6 8" Asphaltic Concrete Pavement 123 S.Y. $ 80.00 $ 9,840.00
  7 6" Asphaltic Concrete Pavement 174 L.S. $ 70.00 $ 12,180.00
  8 Combine Curb & Gutter, Type II 110 LIN. FT. $ 70.00 $ 7,700.00
  9 Combine Curb & Gutter, Type II (Modified) 58 LIN. FT. $ 80.00 $ 4,640.00
  10 Sidewalk Ramp 499 S.F. $ 32.00 $ 15,968.00
  11 4" Aggregate Base- Type AB-3 325 S.Y. $ 25.00 $ 8,125.00
  12 Earthwork 1 L.S. $ 12,500.00 $ 12,500.00
  13 Pavement Markings 1 L.S. $ 5,500.00 $ 5,500.00
  14 Pavement Marking Symbol of Accessibility 3 EA. $ 600.00 $ 1,800.00
  15 Contractor Construction Staking 1 L.S. $ 6,000.00 $ 6,000.00
  16 Seeding, Fertilizing and Mulching 0.3 Ac. $ 4,500.00 $ 1,125.00
  17 Clearing & Grubbing 1 L.S. $ 2,500.00 $ 2,500.00
  18 Handicapped Parking Signs 3 EA. $ 250.00 $ 750.00
  19 Bicycle Rack (For 14 Bikes- Type Approved by City) 14 EA. $ 250.00 $ 3,500.00
  20 Erosion Control 1 L.S. $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00
  21 Traffic/Pedestrian Control 1 L.S. $ 5,000.00 $ 5,000.00
 SUBTOTAL $ 209,948.00

 Sales Tax (9.35%) $ 19,630.14

 TOTAL $ 229,578.14

 Engineer's Opinion
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: Braxton Copley, DOCUMENT #:
 Assistant City Manager
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: Hotel Topeka Funding PROJECT #:
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY 020 Resolutions / 004 Public Improvements
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: JOURNAL #:
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:

RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding a capital request for service
elevator repair at Hotel Topeka.

Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

(Approval would authorize an additional funding request of $32,191.55.)

VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.
POLICY ISSUE:
Additional funding for the cost to furnish and install a new digital drive for the service elevator at Hotel Topeka in
the amount of $32,191.55
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Governing Body move to approve the resolution.
BACKGROUND:
Additional funding for the cost to furnish and install a new digital drive for the service elevator at Hotel Topeka in
the amount of $32,191.55
BUDGETARY IMPACT:
$32,1941.55
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
General Funds-Hotel Non-Departmental Expense

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Resolution - Hotel Topeka (Service Elevator)
Copy of TOKS Capital Request for Service
Service Elevator #3 Drive Replacement Proposal
 1 RESOLUTION NO. ___________
 2
 3 A RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding a capital
 4 request for service elevator repair at Hotel Topeka.
 5
 6 WHEREAS, the City has received a request from the Topeka Development

 7 Corporation (TDC) for funding service elevator repair; and

 8 WHEREAS, the Governing Body acknowledges the request for funding should be

 9 authorized.

10 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE

11 CITY OF TOPEKA, KANSAS, that funding for the cost to furnish and install a new digital

12 drive for the service elevator at Hotel Topeka in the amount of $32,191.55 is hereby

13 authorized.

14 ADOPTED and APPROVED by the Governing Body on .

15 CITY OF TOPEKA, KANSAS
16
17
18
19
20 Michael A. Padilla, Mayor
21 ATTEST:
22
23
24
25 ______________________________
26 Brenda Younger, City Clerk




 RES/Hotel Topeka (Service Elevator) 1/10/2025 1
Capital Request Form
Location Hotel Topeka at City Center


Scope The service elevator is currently inoperable. The current analog drive for this elevator failed and is obsolete. The cost is to furnish and install a new digital drive.
 There is only one quote because KONE manufactured the elevator.




 Date Vendor Quote
Proposal #1 1/10/2025 KONE $ 32,191.55
Proposal #2
Proposal #3 Date
 Approval: Wayne Wazlawik 1/10/2025
 Budget Not Budgeted Actual $ 32,191.55 General Manager
 Date
If Over Budget Why? Approval:
 Regional Director of Operations
 Date
 Approval:
Make sure all proposals at attached
Questions: Do they have workers Compensation insurance
 Copy of insurance with our entity additional insured
 What is the warranty on the work performed




 1/10/2025
hlkb=fåÅK=mêçéçë~äL`çåíê~Åí=
=
==
==

January 10, 2025 KONE Inc.
 Kansas City
 2700 Bi State Drive
HOTEL TOPEKA Kansas City, MO 64108
1717 SOUTHWEST TOPEKA BLVD Tel 816-531-2140
 Fax 816-531-5523
TOPEKA KS 66603 www.kone.comf




 Subject: Elevator Analog AC Control Drive Replacement-Upgrade w/Software

 Property: Hotel Topeka, Topeka Kansas


KONE Inc. (KONE) is pleased to offer you (Purchaser) this proposal and contract for the repair service described
below.
The price stated in this letter is valid for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of the letter.

1. Equipment.
 Service Elevator

2. Description of Work.

New Digital DC Control Drive
The existing Allen Bradley Analog AC Drive has completely failed and is no longer manufactured and is obsolete.
Components, parts are no longer manufactured or supported.

KONE to furnish and install the new Digital AC Drive. Yaskawa 60A.460V
This new drive will increase reliability and performance of the equipment. This drive will reduce downtime.
Components are fully supported and readily available.
Includes, a new Digital DC Drive, new CPU and engineered software for the MiProm controller, encoder, coupler and
new drawings.
Work includes:
-Removal of existing Analog Drive wiring and Drive
-Installation and mounting of new Digital Drive
-Mounting and wiring of the Encoder
-Connection of the AC Power wiring and drive
-Connection of the Motor and Control wiring
-CPU Board Replacement to interface with elevator controls
-The installation and programming of new software (includes expediting of software creation)
-Running various test after parameters are setup to ensure proper operation

3. Price. The total price to perform the services described above is $29,439.00(TWENTY NINE THOUSAND
 FOUR HUNDREND THIRTY NINE AND 00/100).plus applicable taxes

4. Payment Terms.
KONE will invoice Purchaser for the total price promptly after KONE completes the services described in this letter.
Payment is due in net 45 days.
=

4. General Terms and Conditions. Per the terms and This letter and the General Terms and Conditions below
form the contract between Purchaser and KONE. This contract is effective on the earlier of (a) the date KONE’s
authorized representative signs below; or (b) the date KONE begins the services described in this letter. This contract
expires automatically when KONE completes its services.

Kind Regards,

Robert Ochalla
Sales Executive

Accepted for KONE INC. Accepted for PURCHASER

_______________________________________ _______________________________________
Signature Signature

_______________________________________ _______________________________________
Printed Name Printed Name

_______________________________________ _______________________________________
Title Title

 _______________________________________
 Date of Acceptance (Effective Date)




 GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Hours of Service. Unless expressly provided otherwise in warranty in this contract must be provided by KONE.
the Agreement, all services will be performed during the KONE’s warranty becomes null and void when a part is
regular working hours of the regular working days of the supplied by a third party. Purchaser waives all claims against
elevator or escalator trade in the location in which the KONE arising from or related to a part supplied by a third
services are performed. party. Except for this express warranty, KONE disclaims all
 other warranties of any kind, whether express, implied,
Cancellation. Any cancellation or other termination of statutory or otherwise, to the extent that such other
KONE’s services under this contract constitutes a material warranties may be disclaimed under applicable law.
breach. In such case, Purchaser will pay as a cancellation Purchaser’s sole remedy and KONE’s sole liability for breach
fee an amount equal the following percentages of the total of warranty is repair of existing parts or delivery of
price or not-to-exceed price: (i) 30% after the date KONE conforming parts.
approves the contract; (i) 80% after the date KONE orders
materials; and (ii) 100% after the date KONE starts work. Payment Terms. Payment is due net thirty (30) days from
 the date of the invoice. A charge of the greater of: (i) 1½%;
Warranty. KONE warrants the materials and workmanship or (ii) the maximum rate permitted by applicable law will be
of the parts delivered under this contract for a period of applied to the unpaid balance. Purchaser will reimburse
ninety (90) days from the date services are complete. KONE KONE for all costs of collection, including without limitation
will in its sole discretion repair or replace any defective court costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees. If this contract
part(s) at its material cost. This warranty excludes the price states a total price or a not-to-exceed price to be made in
of the labor associated with the repair or replacement of more than one payment, KONE is not obliged to start work
parts, which is the responsibility of Purchaser. KONE is not until it receives Purchaser’s initial payment. If Purchaser fails
liable for damage due to normal wear and tear, vandalism, to make timely payment, any indemnity provided by KONE
abuse, misuse, neglect, work performed by third parties, or under this contract is null and void as to any damages that
any other cause beyond KONE’s control or without its fault. arise during the period of non-payment. Purchaser waives all
This provision provides an express warranty for parts claims against KONE arising from or related to suspension
provided under this contract. All parts covered by the of services pursuant to this provision.
=


 including all intellectual property rights, in and to any
Risk of Loss. KONE will deliver all parts FOB Purchaser’s software provided with equipment manufactured by KONE.
premises and title to such parts will pass to and vest in Purchaser will not use such software except in connection
Purchaser upon full payment of the total price. If Purchaser with the use and operation of this equipment. Purchaser will
pays for any parts in full in advance, title to such parts will not reverse engineer or otherwise attempt to obtain the
pass upon receipt of full payment in advance. source code of any software in object code form.

Indemnity. Purchaser will indemnify, defend, and hold KONE Property. KONE will provide Purchaser with any of
KONE harmless from and against any and all claims, its information or materials that it provides to its customers
demands, actions, suits, proceedings, judgments, damages, generally in the ordinary course of its business. Any tools,
loss, liabilities, costs, or expenses, including without devices, or other equipment that KONE uses to perform this
limitation court costs and reasonable attorney's fees, contract remains its sole property. If this contract terminates
whether arising from or related to Purchaser’s, KONE’s, or or expires for any reason, Purchaser will give KONE access
any third party’s negligence, willful misconduct, or acts or to the premises to remove such any tools, devices, or other
omissions in performance of this contract. equipment at KONE’s expense.

Waiver of Consequential Damages and Claims. In no Miscellaneous. This contract is governed by the laws of the
event will either party be liable to the other party for indirect, State of Illinois without regard to or application of its rules on
incidental, consequential, special, exemplary, or punitive the conflict of laws. The parties expressly exclude the
damages of any kind or nature arising from or related to application to this contract of the United Nations Convention
performance of this contract, including without limitation loss on the International Sale of Goods. This contract supersedes
of profits, loss or inaccuracy of data, or loss of use damages, all prior written or oral negotiations, commitments,
even if the party has been advised of the possibility of such agreements, and understandings between the parties
damages and even if under applicable law such damages relating to the subject thereof, and constitutes the entire
would not be considered indirect, incidental, consequential, agreement between the parties with respect to the subject
special, exemplary, or punitive damages. Each party hereby matter hereof. The parties agree that any purchase order,
waives its rights to such damages to the fullest extent work order, agreement, or other terms or conditions provided
permitted by applicable law. Any waiver of claims, damages, by Purchaser to KONE concurrent with either party signing
or other rights, whether such rights arise under this contract this contract or after the effective date of this contract are
or by law or in equity, purported to be made by KONE in this null and void and will not be considered in interpreting the
contract is null and void and will not be considered in contract unless such terms and conditions are set forth in a
interpreting this contract. writing signed by KONE and Purchaser. No amendment,
 modification, cancellation, or alteration of this contract is
Insurance. Purchaser will name KONE as an additional effective unless made in a writing signed by the parties’
insured on its insurance policy. authorized representatives. The contract may be executed in
 multiple counterparts, each of which is an original and all of
Limitation of Liability. KONE’s total liability for any direct which taken together constitutes one and the same
or indirect damages arising under this contract will not agreement. This contract may not be modified, amended,
exceed the total amount paid by Purchaser to KONE under canceled, or altered by custom and usage of trade or course
this contract. of dealing. Any section headings are for convenience only
 and will not in any way limit the scope or affect the
U.S. Government Sales. If the product(s) or service(s) interpretation of any provision of this contract. In the event
provided under this contract are for end use by a federal, any part of this contract is determined to be invalid or non-
state, or local government customer, KONE makes no enforceable, the remaining part or provisions will continue in
representations, certifications, or warranties whatsoever with full force and effect. Failure or delay by a party to exercise
respect to the ability of its product(s), service(s), or price(s) any right, remedy, power, or privilege accorded by this
to satisfy any applicable federal, state, or local statutes or contract does not constitute a waiver of such right, remedy,
regulations, including without limitation the Federal power, or privilege. A waiver is effective only if in writing and
Acquisition Regulation (“FAR). signed by the waiving party. A written waiver of default will
 not operate as a waiver of any other default or of the same
Force Majeure. A party is not liable for failure to perform its default in the future. The terms and conditions of this
obligations under this contract if such failure is beyond its contract that by their sense and context are intended to
control and without its fault and results from Acts of God survive expiration or termination of this contract will so
(including without limitation fire, flood, earthquake, storm, survive, including without limitation the making of all
hurricane, or other natural disaster), labor disputes, strikes, payments hereunder.
lockouts, or other force majeure events. The non-performing
party must promptly notify the other party in writing of the
force majeure event and resume performance immediately
upon cessation of the event.

Intellectual Property Rights. KONE retains all rights, title,
and interest, including all intellectual property rights, in and
to the written materials it provides to Purchaser or uses to
perform this contract, including without limitation shop
drawings, technical documentation, and user manuals.
KONE or its licensors retain all rights, title, and interest,
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: Mayor Padilla and DOCUMENT #:
 Amanda Stanley, City
 Attorney
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: Deputy Mayor Election PROJECT #:
 2025
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY 006 Communication / 005 Other
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: 01-07-24 Meeting JOURNAL #:
 Canceled. Moved to 1-
 14-24 Agenda
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:

ELECTION of Deputy Mayor to serve a one-year term pursuant to Topeka Municipal Code Section A2-
26(c).

Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

(The Deputy Mayor shall serve in the absence or temporary disability of the Mayor for a one-year term ending
in January 2026.)

VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.
POLICY ISSUE:
Pursuant to Topeka Municipal Code Section A2-26(c) the Deputy Mayor will serve in the absence or temporary
disability of the Mayor.

The Deputy Mayor shall serve until January 2026. Pursuant to Governing Body Rules and Procedures 4.1(b) In
the absence of the mayor, the deputy mayor shall preside. Anytime there is a need for an election of a Deputy
Mayor, Councilmembers who have served the longest period of time and have not previously served as Deputy
Mayor will automatically be nominated. Councilmember Kell will automatically be nominated for Deputy Mayor.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the Governing Body move to nominate and elect a Deputy Mayor.

BACKGROUND:
The City's charter ordinance requires election of a Deputy Mayor at the first governing body meeting in January.
The Deputy Mayor serves for a one-year term and in the absence or temporary disability of the Mayor. Rule
4.1(b) of the Governing Body Rules provides that Council Members who have served the longest period of time
and have not previously served as Deputy Mayor will automatically be nominated. In addition to automatic
nominations, additional councilmembers can still be nominated until the nomination is closed by motion. The Rule
only requires that the longest serving who has not served be automatically nominated not that they automatically
become the Deputy Mayor.

Councilmember Kell is eligible to be nominated. If he refuses, then Councilmember Hoferer would be eligible,
followed by Councilmember Banks and Councilmember Miller.

The Deputy Mayor shall appoint the members to each standing committee for Policy and Finance, Public
Infrastructure, Public Health and Safety, Social Service Grants and Transient Guest Tax, as well as any special
committees. Below is a list of Deputy Mayors that have served over the past several years:

2024 - Christina Valdivia-Alcala
2023 - Neil Dobler
2022 - Spencer Duncan
2021 - Mike Padilla
2020 - Tony Emerson
2019 - Sandra Clear
2018 - Brendan Jensen
2017 - Jeff Coen
2016 - Michelle De La Isla
2015 - Karen Hiller
2014 - Denise Everhart
2013 - Sylvia Ortiz

BUDGETARY IMPACT:
There is no budgetary impact to the City.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
Not Applicable.

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
TMC A2-26 Meetings - Deputy Mayor
Deputy Mayor GB Rules
Appx. A, Sec. A2-26 Meetings – Deputy Mayor | Topeka Municipal Code Page 1 of 1




Sec. A2-26. Meetings – Deputy Mayor.

(a) The governing body shall establish, by ordinance, a meeting schedule for each calendar year, with a minimum
of two meetings each month.

(b) The governing body shall elect a Councilmember to serve as deputy mayor in the absence or temporary
disability of the mayor.

(c) A deputy mayor shall be elected at the first governing body meeting in January to serve for a one year term.
(C.O. 122 § 1, 2-8-22.)




The Topeka Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 20384, passed November 1, 2022.

Disclaimer: The City Clerk’s Office has the official version of the Topeka Municipal Code. Users should contact the
City Clerk’s Office for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.

City Website: www.topeka.org
Code Publishing Company




 The Topeka Municipal Code is current through Ordinance 20384, passed November 1, 2022.
 Legal Department -- General Government Tel: (785) 368-3883
 215 SE 7th Street, Room 353 Fax: (785) 368-3901
 Topeka, KS 66603 www.topeka.org



4. CHAIR AND DUTIES

 4.1 Chair:

 (a) Mayor. The mayor, if present, shall preside as chair at all meetings of the
 governing body.

 (b) Deputy Mayor. In the absence of the mayor, the deputy mayor shall preside.
 Anytime there is a need for an election of a deputy mayor, council members
 who have served the longest period of time and have not previously served
 as deputy mayor will automatically be nominated.

 (c) City Clerk. In the absence of both the mayor and deputy mayor, the city
 clerk shall preside until a chair is elected from among the council members
 present.
4.2 Call to Order: The meetings of the governing body shall be called to order by the
 mayor or, in the mayor’s absence, by the deputy mayor. In the absence of both the
 mayor and the deputy mayor, the meeting shall be called to order by the city clerk
 for the election of a temporary chair.




8. COMMITTEES

8.1 Purpose: The orderly and timely transactions of the city government shall be better
 served by having in place a committee framework whereby resolution of certain
 issues may be developed prior to consideration by the governing body. The
 committee framework shall include the use of standing committees and special
 committees.

 Standing Committees:
Page 2 of 2

 8.2
 (a) The governing body shall have the following five (5) standing committees,
 each
 Citycomprised of three (3) members of the council:
 Communications
 City Hall, 215 SE 7th Street Tel: 785-368-0991
 Topeka, KS 66603 www.topeka.org
  Policy and Finance.
  Public Health and Safety.
  Public Infrastructure.
  Social Service Grants.
  Transient Guest Tax.

 (b) Appointment. The deputy mayor shall appoint the members to each
 standing committee referenced in subsection (a) above and shall make a
 reasonable effort to stagger terms for the purpose of establishing familiarity
 and continuity from year to year. Appointments shall be made by the first
 meeting in February. Each councilmember shall fill out a committee
 preference list for a standing committee and the deputy mayor shall make
 every effort to appoint councilmembers to the committee of their choice.

 (c) Term. Councilmembers who are appointed to any standing committee
 referenced in subsection (a) above shall serve on their assigned committees
 for a one (1) year term. Councilmembers who wish to change committee
 assignments may do so with permission from the deputy mayor. Each
 standing committee shall elect the chair from among its members.

 8.3 Special Committees:

 (a) Special committees may be established when there is an issue that needs
 special focus and would be better handled outside standing committees.
 Special committees may be created by a vote of six (6) or more members of
 the governing body. Any proposition addressed to the establishment of a
 special committee must state tasks and the time period in which the
 committee should complete its assignment.

 (b) The deputy mayor shall appoint the members of any special committee. The
 chair shall be designated by committee members.

 8.7 Alternate Members of Committees: If a member of a committee cannot be
 present at a meeting, an alternate council member may be appointed to serve at that
 meeting, with full voting rights. The alternate shall be appointed by one of the
 following individuals, listed in order of priority:

 (a) The absent committee member.

 (b) The committee chair.

 (c) The deputy mayor.
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: Josh McAnarney, DOCUMENT #:
 Budget and Finance
 Division Manager; and
 Amanda Stanley, City
 Attorney
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: Strategies Against PROJECT #:
 Violence Everywhere
 (S.A.V.E)
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY 007 Contracts and Amendments / 018 Other
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: Authorize Execution of JOURNAL #:
 Agreement
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:

DISCUSSION on the execution of an agreement for assigning interests and rights from the Boys and
Girls Club of Topeka to S.A.V.E., Inc., (Strategies Against Violence Everywhere) for the disbursement of
2025 funding.

(S.A.V.E., Inc., as the Grantee will provide administration of the S.A.V.E program in 2025.)

VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
Discussion only. Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.
POLICY ISSUE:
Whether or not the City executes the MOU required to formally amend the adopted budget allocation to reflect the
updated agency from Boys and Girls Club of Topeka to SAVE, Inc for 2025 funding.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Discussion only. The MOU is scheduled for action on January 21, 2025.
BACKGROUND:
The adopted 2025 Operating Budget included an allocation of $75,000.00 to the Boys and Girls Club of Topeka
for the administration of the S.A.V.E. Program. However, the District Attorney's office has developed SAVE, Inc.
to assume responsibility for program administration.

Staff are requesting the Governing Body's consideration of the updated agency as outlined in the attached
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This MOU assigns the interests and rights for program administration
from the Boys and Girls Club of Topeka to SAVE, Inc., effective beginning in 2025.

Execution of the MOU is required to formally amend the adopted budget allocation to reflect the updated agency
for 2025 funding.
BUDGETARY IMPACT:
If the MOU is executed, the $75,000.00 approved in the 2025 Operating Budget would be granted to SAVE, Inc.
SOURCE OF FUNDING:
General Fund Operating Budget

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Proposed Contract (Memorandum of Understanding) Strategies Against Violence Everywhere
(S.A.V.E.)
Contract No. 51648 (October 17, 2023)
 1 CITY OF TOPEKA

 2 CONTRACT NO. _____________

 3 Memorandum of Understanding

 4 (Strategies Against Violence Everywhere [S.A.V.E.])

 5 This Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) is entered into on

 6 ______________________, supplementing City of Topeka Contract No. 51648, between the

 7 City of Topeka, Kansas (“Grantor”) and the Boys & Girls Club of Topeka, (“Grantee”) regarding

 8 S.A.V.E. program funding for 2024.

 9 WHEREAS, the S.A.V.E. program, through the coordination of law enforcement, social

10 service agencies and community members, aims to reduce the risk to certain youths becoming

11 violent offenders or victims of violence; and

12 WHEREAS, while the Shawnee County District Attorney’s office is the lead agency for

13 S.A.V.E., Grantee is responsible for providing direct support to S.A.V.E. participants and their

14 families; and

15 WHEREAS, S.A.V.E. receives funding from the Kansas Department of Corrections,

16 Shawnee County and, since 2022, from Grantor;

17 WHEREAS, Grantor has allocated $75,000 from its general fund for calendar year 2025,

18 subject to this MOU,

19 WHEREAS, Grantee wishes to assign its rights to receive funding and administer the

20 S.A.V.E. program for 2025 to SAVE, Inc. with the approval of the City of Topeka Governing

21 Body, the parties agree, as follows:




 MOU (S.A.V.E.) 1
 2025 Calendar Year
22 Section 1. Assignment. Per section 5 of the No. 51648 Memorandum of Understanding,

23 Grantee wishes to exercise its right to assign its interest in the MOU with the consent of the

24 Grantor and the Governing Body of the City of Topeka.

25 Section 2. Continued Support. The Shawnee County District Attorney’s Office will

26 continue to be the lead agency for the S.A.V.E. grant funding.

27 Section 3. Fund Distribution. Grantor will now distribute funds to SAVE, Inc. the new

28 Grantee, pursuant to this a subsequent contract for 2025.

29 Section 4. No Discrimination. In carrying out the terms and provisions of this MOU,

30 Grantee will not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, recipient of

31 service or applicant requesting services because of color, disability, familial status, gender

32 identity, genetic information, national origin or ancestry, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation,

33 or veteran status.

34 Section 5. Entire Agreement. This agreement constitutes the entire agreement between

35 the Grantor and the Grantee for the use of funds received pursuant to this MOU and it supersedes

36 all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral, or written

37 between the Grantor and the Grantee.

38 Section 6. Execution in Counterparts. This MOU may be signed by faxed or

39 electronic signature, which shall be deemed to be an original signature. This Agreement may be

40 executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, and all of which shall

41 be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.

42




 MOU (S.A.V.E.) 2
 2025 Calendar Year
43

44 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Grantor and Grantee have executed this MOU as of the date

45 first above written.

46

47 GRANTOR GRANTEE

48

49 ___________________________ _________________________________

50 Robert M. Perez, Ph.D., City Manager , CEO

51

52

53 ATTEST:

54

55 ___________________________

56 Brenda Younger, City Clerk

57




 MOU (S.A.V.E.) 3
 2025 Calendar Year
 City of Topeka
 Council Action Form
 Council Chambers
 214 SE 8th Street
 Topeka, Kansas 66603
 www.topeka.org
 January 14, 2025


DATE: January 14, 2025
CONTACT PERSON: DOCUMENT #:
SECOND PARTY/SUBJECT: Public Comment PROJECT #:
 Protocol
CATEGORY/SUBCATEGORY
CIP PROJECT: No
ACTION OF COUNCIL: JOURNAL #:
 PAGE #:

DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION:
PUBLIC COMMENT PROTOCOL
VOTING REQUIREMENTS:
POLICY ISSUE:
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
BACKGROUND:
Governing Body Rule 5.5

(c) Public Comment on a specific agenda item: Comments from members of the public concerning a
specific agenda item will be heard at the time the item is considered. Persons will be limited to addressing the
governing body one (1) time on a particular matter unless otherwise allowed by a vote of six (6) or more members
of the governing body.

(d) General public comment: Requests by members of the public to speak during the public comment portion
of a regular governing body meeting will be placed on the agenda on a "first-come, first-served" basis. The
request should state the name of the individual(s) desiring to be heard. Each such individual shall be limited to
addressing the governing body one (1) time and his or her comments shall be limited to topics directly relevant to
business of the governing body; provided however, that comments pertaining to personnel and litigation matters
shall not be allowed.

Procedures for Addressing the Governing Body
In accordance with Governing Body Rules 5.6 and 5.7, the following protocols for public comment apply:
 Each person shall state his or her name and city of residence in an audible tone for the record.
 All remarks shall be addressed to the Governing Body as a whole -- not to any individual member.
 In order to provide additional time for as many individuals as possible to address the Governing Body, each
 individual signed up to speak will need to complete his or her comments within four minutes.

The following behavior will not be tolerated from any speaker:

 Uttering fighting words
 Slander
 Speeches invasive of the privacy of individuals (no mention of names) Unreasonably Loud Speech
 Repetitious Speech or Debate
 Speeches so disruptive of proceedings that the legislative process is substantially interrupted

Any speaker who engages in this type of behavior will be warned once by the presiding office (Mayor). If the
behavior continues, the speaker will be ordered to cease his or her behavior. If the speaker persists in interfering
with the ability of the Governing Body to carry out its function, he or she will be removed from the City Council
Chambers or Zoom meeting room.

Members of the public, Governing Body and staff are expected to treat one another with respect at all times.
Zoom Meeting Protocol

 Make sure your Zoom name, email and/or phone number matches what was submitted to the City Clerk
 when you signed up for public comment. Any misnamed or unauthorized users will not be admitted to
 Zoom.
 Please keep your mic muted and your camera off until you are called by the Mayor to give your comment.
 If you are cut off during your comment time due to an internet connection or technical issue, you will need
 to submit your comments in writing to the City Clerk atcclerk@topeka.orgor 215 SE 7thStreet, Room
 012B, Topeka, KS 66603 for attachment to the minutes.
 If you break any of the public comment rules, you will receive one warning from the Mayor. If you continue
 any prohibited behavior, you will be removed from the Zoom meeting room and will not be allowed to rejoin.
 Public comment is limited to four minutes. You may receive an extension at the discretion of the Governing
 Body. The timer will be visible to you in the ‘City of Topeka Admin’ window on the Zoom app. Call-in users
 will hear one beep when a minute is remaining and then another beep when time has expired.
 Please do not share the Zoom login information with anyone. Any unauthorized users will not be admitted to
 the Zoom meeting room.
BUDGETARY IMPACT:
SOURCE OF FUNDING:

Governing Body Minutes – January 14, 2025

 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, Topeka, Kansas, Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The

 Governing Body members of the City of Topeka met in regular session at 6:00 P.M. with the

 following Councilmembers present: Councilmembers Hiller, Valdivia-Alcala, Ortiz, Banks,

 Kell, Miller, Dobler, Duncan and Hoferer - 9. Mayor Padilla presided - 1.

 Public comment for the meeting was available via Zoom or in-person. Individuals were

 required to contact the City Clerk's Office at 785-368-3940 or via email at cclerk@topeka.org

 by no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 14, 2025, after which the City Clerk's Office provided the

 Zoom link information and protocols prior to the meeting start time. Written public comment

 was also considered to the extent it was personally submitted at the meeting or to the City

 Clerk's Office located at 215 SE 7th Street, Room 166, Topeka, Kansas, 66603 or via email at

 cclerk@topeka.org on or before January 14, 2025, for attachment to the meeting minutes.

 AFTER THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER, the invocation was provided by

 Reverend Jeff Klinger, Director of the Congregational Excellence and Connectional Ministries

 of the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church.

 THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited by meeting participants.

 A PRESENTATION regarding the 2025 Minority, Women and Disadvantaged Business

Enterprises Utilization Goal Recommendations was provided by Luis Matos, Procurement

Manger. Leigha Boling, Division Director of Procurement and Grant Management, was present

for questions.

 Councilmember Valdivia-Alcala thanked Staff for implementing and promoting diversity

in City procurement.



 01-14-25
 6
 Councilmember Hiller questioned how the percentage of diverse bidders was determined;

and if Staff was actively seeking partnerships in the community to promote diversity in

procurement.

 Procurement Manager Matos reported the percentage was based on the overall number of

bids and Saff advertises current and upcoming bids through many different sectors.

 Leigha Boling, Division Director, reported the goal was to increase participation numbers

which in turn would increase diverse bidders, and confirmed they are using multiple avenues to

communicate, educate and seek bidders in all sectors.

 Councilmember Duncan thanked Staff for conducting quarterly education vendor

meetings. He requested what the 43% of diverse bidders equates to in dollars and how many of

the contracts within the 43% are employing a diverse workforce.

 Procurement Manager Matos reported the 43% of diverse bidders equates to 2.5% of the

total dollar bid amount.

 Councilmember Miller asked for further explanation of the 2.5% as it relates to the dollar

amount.

 Mayor Padilla asked how Staff was communicating bidding opportunities to sub-

contractors of general contractors.

 Councilmember Ortiz asked how Staff was assisting current and/or potential diverse

bidders to improve their skill set as it relates to constructing and submitting bids so they can be

more competitive.

 Division Director Boling further clarified the 2.5% encompasses the total City spend of

procurement dollars, and they continue to work to find ways to track the diversity of sub-

contractors of prime general contractors. She provided an overview of the efforts being made to

 01-14-25
 7
improve communication of the bidding process and the resources available to improve the

bidding skill set of diverse bidders.

 AN UPDATE on the Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) was provided

by Amanda Stanley, City Attorney.

 Councilmember Duncan asked when the interlocal agreement expires and when the

Countywide Half-Cent Sales Tax sunsets.

 City Attorney Stanley stated the interlocal agreement expires on December 31, 2031, and

she would report back on the sunset date of the sales tax.

 A PRESENTATION on the Prevention and Resiliency Services (PARS) Funding was

presented by Mandy Czechanski, PARS Executive Director.

 Isabelle Huskins, Safe Streets Program Director, provided an overview of the “Block

Talk” concept which will replace the Safe Streets Program.

 Councilmember Valdivia-Alcala referenced the “Block Talk” concept and asked if they

have started to build relationships with Neighborhood Improvement Associations (NIAs) and the

City of Topeka Community Engagement Division.

 Isabelle Huskins stated the purpose of the “Block Talk” concept was to utilize City of

Topeka Community Engagement Division and all community partners.

 Mandy Czechanski reported they wanted to secure funding before they move forward

with the new concept.

 Councilmember Duncan referenced the shift in programing from what was outlined in the

initial service contract with PARS. He expressed concern with losing the “National Night Out”

events and noted they must decide how they want to allocate funding.



 01-14-25
 8
 Councilmember Banks inquired how the shift in the program would affect the community

and the involvement of the Fire and Police Departments.

 Mandy Czechanski reported all law enforcement, public safety as well as other vital

community partners are fully engaged in the National Night Out events; however, they need help

facilitating the events as they do not have sufficient staff to do so.

 Councilmember Miller encouraged City Staff to assist and find a solution on how they

can continue conducting National Night Out events.

 Councilmember Kell suggested the neighborhoods take on the responsibility of

conducting the National Night Out events.

 Councilmember Hiller thanked PARS for the presentation and referenced the national

recognition of local National Night Out events. She referenced the NIAs and Low to Moderate

Income Neighborhoods in District No. 1 and noted, each neighborhood event concept impacts

neighborhoods specifically as it relates to the events. She spoke in support of continuing the

events.

 Councilmember Ortiz stated she concurs with Councilmember Hiller. She spoke to the

opportunity the NNO events provides individuals to tour all neighborhoods in the city.

 Mayor Padilla spoke to the need to be adaptive to be effective as it relates to program

changes and the importance of the City being involved in the decision those changes. He stated it

was his belief, the Governing Body as whole supports the program and positive changes.

 Mandy Czechanski stated she would be happy to meet with each member of the

Governing Body to further explain the new program concept.

 APPROVAL of the MINUTES of the regular meeting of December 17, 2024, was presented.

 Councilmember Dobler moved to approve the consent agenda. The motion seconded by

 01-14-25
 9
Councilmember Miller carried unanimously on roll call vote. (10-0-0)

 A RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding additional

funding for site repair and improvements at Hotel Topeka, was withdrawn from the agenda.

(Funding request was deferred at the January 14, 2025, Topeka Development Corporation

Board of Directors Meeting.)

 RESOLUTION NO. 9610 introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez regarding a

capital request for service elevator repair at Hotel Topeka, was presented.

 Braxton Copley, Assistant City Manager, reported it would provide funding for repair of

the service elevator used by Hotel Topeka employees.

 Councilmember Duncan moved to approve the resolution. The motion was seconded by

Councilmember Dobler.

 Mayor Padilla asked all those in favor of approving the resolution to indicate so by

verbally saying “yea” and those opposing to indicate so verbally by saying “no.” The motion

carried on voice vote. Councilmembers Valdivia-Alcala, Ortiz, Banks and Miller voted “no.” (6-

4-0)

 ELECTION of Deputy Mayor to serve a one-year term pursuant to Topeka Municipal

Code Section A2-26(c), was presented.

 Brenda Younger, City Clerk, stated hard copy ballots have been provided to each

member of the Body and the first nominee that receives the most votes will serve as the next

Deputy Mayor.

 Amanda Stanley, City Attorney, reported all ballots are considered an open record and

will be on file in the City Clerk’s office as part of the permanent record.

 Mayor Padilla stated according to Governing Body Rules & Procedures 4.1(b) Council

 01-14-25
 10
members who have served the longest period of time and have not previously served as deputy

mayor will automatically be nominated; therefore, Councilmember Kell would automatically be

nominated to serve as Deputy Mayor.

 Councilmember Kell accepted the nomination.

 Councilmember Miller nominated Councilmember Hiller.

 Councilmember Hiller accepted the nomination.

 Upon hearing no more nominations, Mayor Padilla closed nominations.

 After the tally of ballots, the City Clerk announced Councilmember Kell received six (6)

votes and Councilmember Hiller received four (4) votes.

 Mayor Padilla announced Councilmember Kell would serve as the next deputy mayor.

 DISCUSSION on the execution of an agreement for assigning interests and rights from

the Boys and Girls Club of Topeka to S.A.V.E., Inc., (Strategies Against Violence

Everywhere) for the disbursement of 2025 funding, was presented.

 Josh McAnarney, Budget and Finance Division Manager, reported the adopted 2025

Operating Budget included an allocation of $75,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Topeka for the

administration of the S.A.V.E. Program; however, the Shawnee County District Attorney’s office

as developed SAVE, Inc., to assume responsibility for program administration.

 Amanda Stanley, City Attorney, stated the City was notified of the change in services and

the attached Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) assigns the interests and rights for the

program administration from the Boys & Girls Club of Topeka to SAVE, Inc., upon approval of

the Governing Body.

 Councilmember Valdivia-Alcala provided an explanation as why she would not support

the reallocation of program funds. (Attachment A)

 01-14-25
 11
 Councilmember Hiller questioned the funding source and suggested implementing

qualifications and performance measures for the S.A.V.E. Program if they plan to continue to

fund the program.

 Councilmember Ortiz asked for a full explanation of the name change.

 Budget and Finance Director reported the annual payment of $75,000 would be paid from

the General Fund and he will reach out to the program Director for more information and report

back to the Governing Body.

 PUBLIC COMMENT was provided by the following individuals:

 Danielle Twemlow expressed concern with the increased tax burden of individuals. She

provided examples of service increases compared to the nearly stagnate living wage increase and

how it impacts taxpayers. She requested each department be reviewed in detail for efficiencies

and cost savings. She spoke to the importance of ceasing the subsidizing of surrounding areas

and instead help the citizens of Topeka.

 Henry McClure distributed a handout outlining K.S.A. 19-2670 related to the Citizens

commission on local government in counties with population between 170,000 and 200,000, as

well as membership and qualifications. He expressed concern with the Greater Topeka

Partnership and encouraged the Governing Body to support economic development and sales tax

so they can grow the community.

 Kristi Pena, Jayce Cridlebaugh, Karessa Whye and Roland Whye (distributed a handout),

tenants of Lew McGinnis rental properties expressed concern with the poor living condition of

their housing units, the lack of response to address flooding and sewer backups, the lack of snow

removal, the lack of overall maintenance of housing units, and the lack of ADA accessibility for

residents. They urged the City to take responsibility of the situation and help tenants and prevent

 01-14-25
 12
Lew McGinnis from buying any more rental property in Topeka.

 Frederick Redwine, legal counsel for Lew McGinnis, apologized on behalf of Mr.

McGinnis to the residents, the City of Topeka and the Governing Body. He provided an

explanation of why there was an issue with the trash service for residents and reported the issue

has been resolved. He reported that Mr. McGinnis considers himself a community partner and

paid $2.4 million in property taxes in 2024.

 Mayor Padilla acknowledged the Governing Body has heard those individuals that spoke

about poor living conditions and noted, they will respond appropriately.

 Councilmember Miller requested to discuss the issue in executive session.

 ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE CITY MANAGER, MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE

COUNCIL;

 Brenda Younger, City Clerk, provided an overview of the January 21, 2025, Governing

Body Meeting agenda.

 Dr. Robert M. Perez, City Manager, provided an overview of snow removal operations

and reported a full debrief will be provided on February 4, 2025. He spoke to the importance of

educating and not citing property owners for snow removal. He commented on the snow removal

process in alleys and asked residents to submit a “See Click Fix” ticket or call the City of Topeka

Customer Service Division at 785-368-3111.

 Councilmember Hoferer thanked the City’s Customer Service Division for answering the

extreme number of calls related to snow removal as well as other City employees for their work

during the recent snow event. She announced the Thomas the Train and Friends Exhibit at the

Kansas Children’s Discovery Center.

 Councilmember Hiller thanked the Lew McGinnis tenants for providing their input. She


 01-14-25
 13
asked tenants to call the Council Office at 785-368-3710 and provide as much information as

possible to help them understand the issues. She thanked City employees and contractors for

their assistance in mitigating the recent snow event as well as residents helping each other. She

recognized upcoming Martin Luther King events across the city.

 Councilmember Valdivia-Alcala thanked the tenants of Lew McGinnis for speaking out

about the poor living conditions they forced to endure. She urged tenants to report ADA

accessibility issues to Rocky Nicholes at the Disability Rights Advocate Office. She asked how

much in back taxes are owed by Eucalyptus and any other complex/rental property owned by

Lew McGinnis.

 Councilmember Ortiz thanked Fredrick Redwine for his comments on why the trash

service lapsed; however, there are many other poor living conditions that need to be addressed.

She urged residents to work with the City and provide input and report the issues to the City of

Topeka Code Compliance Division or the City Council Office. She thanked residents for their

patience in dealing with the recent snow event and all City employees that aided during the

event.

 Councilmember Banks expressed his disappointment with the condition of rental

properties in the city of Topeka. He thanked the residents of Lew McGinnis for providing

comments on their living conditions.

 Councilmember Duncan asked when the first Citizen Government Review Committee

meeting would be held.

 Brenda Younger, City Clerk, announced a Citizen Government Review Committee would

be held on January 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Cyrus K. Holliday Building First Floor

Conference Room located at 620 SE Madison Street, Topeka, Kansas. She noted all meetings are

 01-14-25
 14
posted on the City’s Public Notice calendar.

 Amanda Stanley, City Attorney, reported individuals could call the City Clerk’s Office at

785-368-3940 or email cclerk@topeka.org to sign up for electronic meeting notifications.

 Mayor Padilla thanked the tenants of Lew McGinnis for speaking out about the poor

living conditions. He stated the Governing Body would help in any why legally possible.

 Following a 5-minute recess, Councilmember Miller moved to recess into executive

session not to exceed 40 minutes to give legal advice on a potential zoning, records issue and

other specific topics deemed privileged under the Attorney-Client Privilege as allowed under

K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2). The open meeting will resume in the Governing Body Chambers. The

following staff will be necessary to assist the Governing Body in its deliberations, City Attorney

Stanley and other staff members needed. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Banks.

 Mayor Padilla asked all those in favor of recessing into executive session to indicate so

by verbally saying “yea” and those opposing to indicate so verbally by saying “no.” The motion

carried on voice vote. Councilmembers Ortiz and Dobler voted “no.” (8-2-0)

 At the conclusion of the executive session, the meeting reconvened into open session and

Mayor Padilla announced no action was taken during the executive session.

 NO FURTHER BUSINESS appearing the meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.



 (SEAL)
 Brenda Younger City Clerk




 01-14-25
 15
 Attachment A
For several years now a number of grassroots agencies that work in the realm of conflict
resolution, violence of reduction and deeply in community initially had started out with the
district attorney’s office and what was known as SAVE. We know through newspaper articles,
and some of these very agencies coming up and talking of how all of this went south when the
DA took over the program and its true intention was dismantled. Many in community and I
myself believe that there has been a lack of transparency concerns with aspects of what actual
evidence based approach is the current model of SAVE using? Where is the budget for taxpayers
to view? What is their outreach strategy community can access to see how the information on
“their successes” are being shared? BECAUSE AGAIN WE ARE TALKING ABOUT
TAXPAYER DOLLARS.

The City Attorney was able to provide me with quarterly reports which have a lot of impressive
verbiage, charts etc. and once again they are requesting another $75,000. SAVE has continued to
jump from agency to agency and now is wanting to go on its own directly in the DA’s office. To
me and others in community this concerning. When we talk about programs that are
evidence based we are talking about:

 1. Rigorous transparent standards.

 2. These standards have to be tested and evaluated

 3. There is the requisite peer review when you often see a number of articles written about
 the success of various methodology in different communities, and reliable outcomes.

We see nothing in all of the information I have seen that stands the true rigor of evidence-based
programming. We know we are in a very tight budget crunch, and we know that these are
taxpayers, and it seems to me while reports have been provided really important components still
remain either hidden or not apparent or elusive.

Over the past year and a half - I have received training by the CDC by other national entities like
NACHO the national Association of county health organizations on true evidence based
programming that deals with community violence initiatives, and one of the things that we
continue to hear in these conferences and in these zoom meetings is that while partnerships are
important with law enforcement we have never heard of any encouragement with violence
reduction programs being run by a district attorney’s office.
I also want to mention that our incoming chief has made comment when asked about strategies
for community violence reduction. strategies he agreed that dealing with these issues violence in
high crime, etc. they do need to have a public health approach which include the social
determinants of health and these also appear to be missing from the SAVE programming. There
is another initiative that has been worked on right now in Topeka that addresses the original
intent SAVE had when all of the agencies were involved with the development of s new and
tested way to reduce community violence. and a number of these agencies have come together
along with the hospital, Stormont, Vail, and Again are dealing in solid evidence program. They
have received a grant from the department of Justice in 2024 and SNCO was one of 19 locations
across the nation to receive funding. Three counties in Kansas were selected by the Department
of Justice because of each counties high rate of violence and NOT having a true and documented
evidence-based programming in place. Wyandotte and Sedgewick county were the other
two. Again in 2024. so I know that this is discussion time only, but I will just say right off the
bat more money to the SAVE program just feels like another way of wasting taxpayer money. We
know that youth are very, very important yet, we also know that there are any number of youth
outreach programs that seek to do what SAVE and feels like a duplication of services. It seems
they are not having to go through the same rigors as even our social service grants process. For
this reason I will not be supporting the reallocation of funding.



Christina Valdivia-Alcala
District 2 Representative
(785) 233-7110
cvaldivia-alcala@topeka.org