City faces $15 million budget deficit, considers fee increases and hiring review

City negotiating six offers for Hotel Topeka sale

Police and fire hiring remains a priority amid staffing review

Topeka partners with military and education groups to recruit transitioning service members

Topeka explores simplified line for non-emergency service calls

City moves forward with road and infrastructure projects

Polk-Quincy Viaduct project brings major traffic changes

City encourages residents to use 50/50 Sidewalk Repair Program

1. City faces $15 million budget deficit, considers fee increases and hiring review

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka city officials are working to address an estimated $15 million budget deficit for fiscal year 2027. City Manager Robert Perez said officials are closely reviewing vacant positions and looking for opportunities to consolidate duties where possible. Additionally, the city is reviewing fee schedules, some of which officials said have not been updated in years, with proposed adjustments expected to go before a city committee soon.

2. City negotiating six offers for Hotel Topeka sale

TOPEKA, Kan. — The city is reviewing six offers for the purchase of Hotel Topeka. Officials said they are actively negotiating terms with a smaller group of prospective buyers whose proposals appear most advantageous for the city. Selling the property remains a major strategic goal, though specific details of the offers have not been disclosed publicly.

3. Police and fire hiring remains a priority amid staffing review

TOPEKA, Kan. — Despite broader scrutiny of vacant positions as city officials work through budget pressures, public safety hiring remains a priority in Topeka. Officials said police and fire staffing needs continue to receive special attention as the city plans ahead for future academy classes and ongoing recruitment. They said maintaining public safety services remains a top concern.

4. Topeka partners with military and education groups to recruit transitioning service members

TOPEKA, Kan. — The city is partnering with Fort Riley, Washburn University and the Greater Topeka Partnership on a Kansas Employment Exploration Program (KEEP) tour expected this summer. The effort is intended to encourage transitioning service members to settle in Topeka by showcasing local career options, housing opportunities and community events. City officials said veterans bring valuable skills and could help fill hard-to-staff positions in local government and the broader workforce.

5. Topeka explores simplified line for non-emergency service calls

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka is exploring a simplified phone option for non-emergency city services as officials look for ways to reduce strain on emergency dispatch and improve customer access to city services. City Manager Robert Perez said residents sometimes call emergency lines for issues better handled through regular service channels, such as storm debris or other maintenance concerns. Officials said the goal is to make it easier for residents to report routine issues and reach the correct department.

6. City moves forward with road and infrastructure projects

TOPEKA, Kan. — Topeka is continuing work under its Capital Improvement Plan, with officials highlighting ongoing street and infrastructure projects. Paving work has started on 29th Street, and Southwest Topeka Boulevard has reopened to through traffic at the 21st Street intersection. Officials also said city crews are responding to pothole complaints following winter weather, using reports submitted through SeeClickFix and other service channels.

7. Polk-Quincy Viaduct project brings major traffic changes

TOPEKA, Kan. — Work tied to the Polk-Quincy Viaduct project is continuing, and city officials are warning residents to expect traffic changes and delays as construction progresses. Officials urged drivers to remain patient, use caution around work zones and continue supporting downtown small businesses affected by closures and detours.

8. City encourages residents to use 50/50 Sidewalk Repair Program

TOPEKA, Kan. — As spring construction season begins, city officials are reminding property owners about Topeka's 50/50 Sidewalk Repair Program. Property owners are generally responsible for maintaining adjacent sidewalks, but the program helps eligible residents share repair costs with the city. Officials said the effort is intended to improve pedestrian safety and neighborhood walkability.

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