City Council Meeting April 7, 2026

The City Council of Topeka held a meeting on April 7, 2026, with several procurement-related discussions. Key topics included the Topeka Metropolitan Transit Authority's update on public transportation services, including the discontinuation of the microtransit (MOD) pilot due to high costs and low ridership, and the introduction of electric buses. The council also considered appointments to city boards and commissions. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the Johnson Betts Meadows affordable housing development project, including approval of vacating a right-of-way easement, setting a public hearing for establishing a reinvestment housing incentive district (RHID), and discussions about the project's design, developer partnerships, and community impact. Additionally, the council discussed the disposal and marketing of city-owned real estate parcels, including a parking lot with environmental concerns, with debate over the terms and timing of potential sales. The council also reviewed and discussed the proposed 2027-2036 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) outlining infrastructure projects and funding sources. Finally, the council approved the renewal of a contract with Kansas Legal Services for eviction defense, highlighting the program's success in assisting tenants. Several executive sessions were held regarding real property acquisition, legal advice, and disposition of property, with no actions taken during those sessions.