Topeka Transit: To raise the mill levy?

Tomorrow night, May 12, 2009, our City Council along with our Mayor will have a very tough decision to make.  They have to decide whether or not to vote to add a charter ordinance which will increase the mill levy cap for Topeka Transit.  It essentially is a two-mill increase which would raise the property tax on a $100,000 house by $23 a year (CJOnline: Council to vote on TMTA Proposal).  There is no denying that Transit is essential to the economic development of our city.  There needs to be easy access to public transportation for its residents to get to and from their jobs and for tourists who want to easily navigate the cities attractions.

TransformTopeka has in the past asked guest bloggers to post an argument for each side of these type of important issues, but due to the time constraints (the charter ordinance will be voted on tomorrow night), we felt it best to just present as much information about the issue and allow for comments to argue both sides.  I have a very strong opinion on this issue, but will try and keep my opinion to myself as I share the information about the issue. Read the rest of this entry »

Riverfront Development

This past Monday, I attended the Masterplan for the Topeka Riverfront Development. Going into the meeting, it was difficult not to be skeptical considering so many things that has happened in Topeka. From bad attiudes to bad planning, Topeka has seen a fair share

The Masterplan was impressive. If you did not go to the meeting, you missed out. The information should be online. It was clear that a lot of thought and care had been put into the Masterplan. The group Sasaki Associates has provided other Masterplans in the United States. It was evident why.

I was disappointed the next day to read so many comments posted a local website dismissing the idea. The majority of those who posted were not at the meeting.

What does Topeka want?