Wichita City Council
Notes by Ty Davis
Wichita's efforts with the MAC move forward, but concerns remain about whether these efforts will be enough. The City Council approved changes to the Water Works project and discussed the new 2025 housing payment standard, which could impact HUD voucher families.
Notes by Sharon Ailslieger
The Council addressed parking issues, focusing on insufficient funding, enforcement, and fees for downtown visitors and students. They also reviewed Ethics Policy 39 changes, clarifying gift limits and responsibilities, with calls for more transparency.
Notes by Ty Davis
The council celebrated Wichita's award for best-tasting water and approved an ordinance regulating parties at short-term rentals. Concerns about Clapp Park's tenant agreement and future investments were discussed, along with plans for the MAC in order to open by Thanksgiving.
Notes by Josh Bernat
The City Council approved bids for traffic signalization on 135th St, paving at the Courtyards at Moorings, and re-roofing two city buildings. Budget increases for the Bunker Hill Addition will be addressed on Sept. 10.
Notes by Sharon Ailslieger
Following key discussions on the Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR) and its impact on city services, the Council approved the proposed budget. Councilmember Glasscock then guided the Council through a detailed line-by-line voting process aimed at identifying significant cost savings.
Notes by Taliyah Winn
Heated discussions centered around the paid parking plan and the budget led to a marathon meeting, lasting more than 10 hours.
Notes by Sharon Ailslieger
The City Service Employees Union tentatively agreed to a new contract, with concerns raised about the impact of privatization on city jobs. The Council reviewed the upcoming budget and many people shared their various concerns, including parks and rec, the arts, police and fire.
Notes by Tenay Mathis
The Park and Recreation Department launched a mobile app on April 1st, receiving 2,283 downloads and positive user feedback. The city is addressing drought conditions with a 10% water usage reduction goal and encouraging residents to limit outdoor irrigation.
Notes by Paige Koeppen
Key topics included the 2025 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program, with debates on addressing future budget shortfalls and a vote to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate. The proposed budget prioritizes crime prevention, economic development, and housing insecurity.
Notes by Verdell Island
The meeting covered various topics, including the proclamation of Wichita Wheat Hawks Day and approvals for public improvements and contracts, emphasizing city safety, economic sustainability, and homelessness improvement as key priorities.
Notes by Judy Winters
Mayor Lily Wu led discussions on crucial community issues, including cybersecurity grants and the sale of Park Elementary. Council members engaged with passionate public comments on homelessness solutions and zoning amendments.
Notes by Debbie Haslam
The decision to designate the city website as the "official newspaper" generated significant debate, with concerns raised about transparency and access, culminating in a compromise amendment for supplementary print sources.
Notes by Isaac Roads
Reparations and disability access took center stage at the City Council meeting, with calls for action on both issues highlighting systemic challenges in Wichita. The council also debated transforming Park Elementary into a MAC for the homeless.
Notes by Carli Harmening
From heartfelt talks on Pride Month to young students passionately advocating for climate change solutions, the meeting showcased vibrant community engagement.
Notes by Cecilia Rogers
City talks about fireworks ordinances for the upcoming July 4th holiday and fireworks business owners voice concern about the danger of certain higher-grade explosives. Local company, Diversified Services, Inc. requests tax abatement for new facility in North Wichita.
Notes by Bill Hoag
The Wichita City Council conducts the weekly City Council meeting despite a Cyber-attack that effects the process. Public comment shares concern for Palestine and encourages the City to establish an ordinance calling for Peace.