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Your elected officials are making big decisions. Keep tabs with original notes, live-tweet threads and multimedia reports from Documenters in your area—updated daily

Wichita


Nov. 4, 2024

The District 1 Advisory Board discussed parking and capacity challenges for The Crown Uptown Theatre, as nearby residents opposed increasing capacity due to insufficient parking and neighborhood disruptions. A proposal for a new parking lot at Happiness Plaza was also discussed.

Wichita City - District Advisory Board 1 District 1 Advisory Board Meeting

Notetaking by

Brett Foraker

Wichita


Nov. 4, 2024

The Wichita BOE awarded Shannon Benoit and Tim Hamblin Kansans Can STAR Recognition, with WPS earning Bronze and Copper Stars for early education. The board also discussed mixed abilities student relocation, rising graduation rates, and K-8 improvements.

Wichita Board of Education BOE Meeting

Notetaking by

Judy Winters

Wichita

Development
Oct. 28, 2024

Updates were presented to the Affordable Housing Fund Program Plan, allowing subsidies for property acquisition to speed development. Despite concerns from Board member Jack Silvers, the board approved the changes 4-1. $2 million remains in the Housing Development Loan Program.

Wichita City - Affordable Housing Review Board Affordable Housing Review Board Meeting

Notetaking by

Bill Hoag

Wichita


Oct. 25, 2024

Officials reported on challenges in staffing and public safety, citing an urgent need for more lawyers, affordable legal education, and mental health resources. Despite recent declines in crime rates and innovations in inmate support, recruiting and retention remain a challenge.

Wichita


Oct. 25, 2024

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.

Wichita


Oct. 24, 2024

Multiple zoning changes were approved, including tax increment financing for apartments, setback changes for a Goodwill center, and a parking lot for Happiness Plaza. Additional approvals covered a police station at NW high school and expansion of Crown Uptown.

Wichita-Sedgwick County Board of Zoning Appeals Metropolitan Area Planning Commission - Wichita-Sedgwick County Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting

Notetaking by

Sharon Ailslieger

Wichita


Oct. 23, 2024

The board discussed updates on various projects, including the climate action plan and survey, water conservation, and energy efficiency improvements. The board approved applying for a $3 million EPA grant and answered concerned questions from the public.

Wichita Sustainability Integration Board Sustainability Integration Board Meeting

Notetaking by

Debbie Haslam

Wichita


Oct. 22, 2024

A Public Works steering committee presented recommendations for the future of the Main Water Treatment Plant, which the council will review. The City Council Workshop's location has changed which sparked debate over which place offers the best transparency and public engagement.

Wichita City Council Meetings/Workshops Wichita City Council Workshop

Notetaking by

Judy Winters

Wichita


Oct. 16, 2024

"The Hub," broke ground in Delano and is set to open by summer 2026 after an 18-month construction. Updates included new electric vans expected by January 2025, collaboration with WSU to support international students, and a smoke free policy.

Wichita City - Transit Advisory Board Transit Advisory Board Meeting

Notetaking by

Judy Winters

Wichita


Oct. 15, 2024

The board discussed Wichita’s goal to become an AARP Age-Friendly City, focusing on eight livability domains. They voted to prioritize "Communication and Information" as the third domain, alongside "Housing" and "Social Participation." Elections were held for board roles.

Wichita City - Diversity Inclusion & Civil Rights Advisory Board Diversity, Inclusion and Civil Rights Advisory Board Meeting

Notetaking by

Jacinda Hall

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