City Council reviews major redevelopment projects and budget planning

The Wichita City Council held its Agenda Review meeting on July 11, 2025, to discuss various items on the upcoming agenda. The meeting began with the City Manager outlining the need for compliance with federal regulations, noting that a detailed presentation would follow on Tuesday. Vice Mayor Johnston was designated to lead the council meeting in the City Manager's absence.

The council reviewed several key agenda items, starting with the approval of $21 million in Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs) for the redevelopment of Town West Square. Following this, the council set a public hearing date for a Community Improvement District (CID) and redevelopment project plan for a full-service hotel at 221 South Broadway.

Another significant topic was the proposed 2026-2035 Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which included actions to set a date for the final hearing, declare intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate, and establish expenditure maximums for the budget. The council also discussed an amendment to the city's urban growth area boundary and approved the College Hill neighborhood plan.

The placement of the Crown Uptown Theater on the city's register of historic places was also addressed. However, a recent objection from the property owner was noted, which would require a positive vote from five council members for approval.

Additional items included the approval of IMA Financial Group as the city's insurance broker, the design concept and budget for the 29th and Broadway intersection improvement project, and contracts for demolition and site clearing services. The council also approved a contract for mowing tall grass and weed nuisance properties, modifications to custodial services contracts, and a design-build contract for an interpretive playground at Proc Wetlands Park.

The meeting concluded with a brief review of the July 22 consent agenda, which included agreements for silt measurement in Cheney Reservoir and landscaping restoration related to water repair projects. The council also discussed increasing the change order limit for the Bleckley drainage project and extending the contract for marketing services related to the sale of public housing authority houses.

In closing, the Fire Chief provided a short presentation about a summer camp initiative, and the council expressed gratitude to Council Member Tuttle for their contributions. The meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to address community needs and infrastructure improvements in Wichita.