City of Topeka invites community to weigh in on finances

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Topekans are invited to take part in a few upcoming community engagement sessions for budgetary feedback later this month.

Taylor Bugg with the City of Topeka said in a press release on Monday, Nov. 4 that locals can take part in three different engagement sessions to give their opinions on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget process. Participants can also learn more about the city's financial forecast, possible service reductions and sales tax options.

People can use these sessions to provide their own input on decisions which impact city services and the overall community. Sessions people can attend include the following:

• 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at the Crestview Community Center located at 4801 Southwest Shunga Drive.
• 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at the Hillcrest Community Center located at 1800 Southeast 21st Street.
• 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21 at the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library inside the Marvin Auditorium Room 101B located at 1515 Southwest 10th Avenue.

“Community input is invaluable as we look to responsibly plan for Topeka’s financial future,” said City Manager Robert Perez. “We want to ensure our residents are informed and have a voice in the decisions that will shape our city’s services and resources moving forward.”

Participants at these sessions can also weigh in on possible sales tax measures, the city's financial outlook and adjustments to city services. Feedback will be compiled and used to help guide future decision-making by city leaders.

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