The Wichita Area Metropolitan Planning Organization is working on a safe routes to school program, a regional active transportation plan, travel surveys, and increased public engagement via improved online tools. An internship program is also on the horizon.
Commissioners are committed to disaster preparedness, particularly in the wake of the floods in Central Texas. A benefit run will occur on July 26 and residents are also encouraged to attend the budget discussion on July 30 at the Kansas Leadership Center.
The number of all-terrain vehicles on city streets, bike paths, and at the Big Ditch is concerning. Ordinances currently regulate such usage but enforcement is difficult. The city recognizes World Refugee Day and builds a temporary fence to accommodate a homeowner with a family.
Several local law enforcement personnel were recognized for their service and sacrifice. Heavy rains continue to impact the county, and commissioners reminded residents to heed mobile alerts and call 211 if they are in need of shelter, cleanup support, and recovery services.
A split vote on a storage facility proposal, a $3.2M housing plan, new crime prevention efforts, and tech issues led a full District 4 meeting. Other highlights: City Manager Layton’s retirement, equity concerns, a successful town hall, and savings from encampment cleanups.
The board discussed a survey to assess public perception, and a proposed reparations ordinance, including potential funding sources and terminology concerns. They talked about the mayor's previous lack of support and holding an educational session for City Council on reparations.
Residents raised concerns about veteran support, sidewalk obstructions, & a historic home demolition. The council approved key measures, including the Old Town Cinemas lease and a childcare licensing grant, while delaying decisions on the Old Town CID and Crown Uptown Demolition.
The board passed a motion to ensure fairness of the county's comprehensive plan. Key topics included the approval of an island annexation request, property valuation adjustments, tax policy concerns, and legislative updates on juvenile justice, special elections, & public health.
The council approved the consent agenda, public improvement petitions, and travel authorizations for Councilmembers Johnson and Tuttle. Discussions covered the National Community Survey results, strategic planning priorities, public safety, and defining goals for a well-run city.
Discussion included funding challenges, service improvement needs, and climate action initiatives. Key topics included a service investment gap, strategies to attract new riders, climate-focused sustainability efforts, and ongoing staffing and ridership updates.
The Wichita City Council workshop addressed public concerns on a proposed gentlemen’s club, homelessness, water conservation, and downtown parking solutions. Key updates included zoning notification changes, budget adjustments, and progress on public works projects.
Key council actions included deferring the downtown parking plan for revisions, approving funding for the Holocaust Memorial, and addressing financial challenges tied to the Medical School parking infrastructure and city deficits.
Highlights included crime reductions and wellness support from the Sheriff's Office, staffing and technology improvements in the DA's Office, new crime and safety initiatives from the Police Department, and rehabilitation programs for non-violent offenders in Municipal Court.
The City Council made key proclamations to support homelessness, after-school programs, and juvenile justice reform, while also approving affordable housing development and expanding public safety technology. Cultural Funding for 38 organizations were made.
The council proclaimed events like the Wichita Asian Festival, Indigenous Peoples Day, and Fire Prevention Week. Updates included USD 259 goals, consent agenda approvals, law amendments, street and riverbank improvements, Open Streets ICT, and the City Water Works building.
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.
Wichita firefighters completed a symbolic stair climb at the Epic Center, reflecting the bravery of the 343 firefighters who died in the 9/11 attacks. Sedgwick County Park will host National Cleanup Day on 9/21, while Goddard celebrates new initiatives, like Meals on Wheels.
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.
