Policy & Finance Committee Meeting August 12, 2026

The City of Topeka Policy & Finance Committee met on August 12, 2026, to discuss the draft 2027 legislative agenda and related policy priorities. Key procurement-related topics included transportation funding, with emphasis on protecting state funds for major projects like the $180 million PQV East project, and addressing a projected $1.5 million shortfall in the city-county highway fund due to declining motor fuel tax revenues. Flood insurance rate map updates and flood mitigation funding were also discussed, highlighting the need for federal or state support for these capital improvement efforts. The committee approved adding a human trafficking section to the legislative agenda, supporting continued state efforts in that area. Other policy issues covered included local government employment grants to address hard-to-fill positions, concerns about municipal rights-of-way and utility relocations, and property tax valuation challenges related to vacant properties. The committee planned to forward the legislative agenda to the full governing body for further discussion and approval, aiming to engage state legislators early in the session to advocate for these priorities.