JEDO Board Meeting May 13, 2026

The City of Topeka's Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) Board met on May 13, 2026, focusing on economic growth initiatives and procurement-related matters. Key procurement discussions included the approval of a $1,430,000 incentive agreement for Project Omega, aimed at supporting a local company's expansion and creation of 175 new jobs over five years. The board also reviewed updates on the Choose Topeka 2.0 program, requesting $230,000 in funding to continue workforce recruitment and retention efforts, including a $50,000 renewal for the SkillFit platform subscription. Additionally, the JEDO Finance Committee provided an update on countywide half-cent sales tax-funded infrastructure projects, noting a 35% increase in construction costs and potential budget shortfalls requiring future policy decisions on project scope or funding. Small business incentives totaling $128,400 were awarded across various industries, with a review committee set to evaluate new applications. The meeting also highlighted ongoing business attraction efforts, innovation lab activities, and upcoming events to support local startups and economic development. A public comment addressed economic equity and proposed the creation of a racial equity economic opportunity task force to guide policy and spending.