The Wichita City Council convened on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, for a comprehensive session addressing critical issues including the approval of a new City Manager, significant water and sewer rate adjustments, union contract negotiations, and affordable housing initiatives. The meeting featured passionate public testimony on food deserts and homelessness, the approval of Dennis Marstall as the next City Manager despite concerns about the selection process, and a contentious vote establishing three-year water rate increases. Assistance from Claude AI.
Key Decisions:
- Dennis Marstall approved as City Manager (5-2 vote)
- Water/sewer rates increased through 2028 using Option 3 (4-3 vote)
- Three union contracts approved unanimously
- Multiple affordable housing revenue bond letters of intent approved
- Golf course irrigation improvements authorized
Meeting Participants
Council Members Present:
- Mayor Lily Wu
- Vice Mayor JV Johnston
- Council Member Brandon Johnson (District I)
- Council Member Becky Tuttle (District II)
- Council Member Mike Hoheisel (District III)
- Council Member Dalton Glasscock (District IV)
- Council Member Maggie Ballard (District VI)
Staff Members:
- Robert Layton, City Manager
- Jennifer Magana, City Attorney
- Shinita Rice, City Clerk
- Troy Anderson, Assistant City Manager
- Gary Janzen, Public Works & Utilities
- Pam Pennington, Human Resources
- Jason Hood, Human Resources
- Scott Wadle, Planning Department
- Timothy Kellams, Public Works & Utilities
- Jesse Coffman, Golf Division
- Aaron Henning, Public Works & Utilities
Presentations
WSU Tech Annual Update
Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech, presented the institution’s annual update highlighting workforce development achievements and partnerships with local high schools.
Key Points:
- WSU Tech serves students through career and technical education programs
- Partnership with Wichita Public Schools through FutureReady Centers
- Programs allow high school students to earn industry certifications
- Students can graduate high school with two-year certificates in fields like welding
- Programs lead to immediate employment opportunities often exceeding traditional college graduate starting salaries
Council Response:
Council Member Hoheisel shared a personal anecdote: “My niece actually did what you had described. She graduated high school. Later that day, she had a two-year certificate in welding. Within a month, she was actually making more than Uncle Mike was.”
Mayor Wu disclosed her service on the WSU Tech Board and emphasized: “This is true economic impact, and this is really elevating individuals in our community… I hope that, whether you’re watching online or here in the audience, that you will share what you’ve learned here, and let young people know, especially about FutureReady Centers, and the importance of the CTE programs.”
Council Member Glasscock concluded: “As an alumnus of Wichita State, you guys are doing incredible work. And so really all I can say is go Shocks.”
Public Agenda
Kenyan Community Celebration
Natalie Oduor invited the community to celebrate Jamhuri Day (Kenya’s Independence Day) on December 6 at Newman University.
Key Points:
- Kenya gained independence on December 12, 1963
- Event celebrates Kenyan culture and heritage
- Emphasis on shared values of community and opportunity between Kenya and Wichita
- Cultural significance of chai (tea) in Kenyan hospitality
Food Deserts in Wichita
Noura Siddiqui, a BSN graduate from WSU pursuing her FNP from University of St. Mary, delivered a detailed presentation on food deserts affecting Wichita residents.
Key Statistics:
- Wichita has 44 square miles of food deserts
- Multiple grocery stores have closed in recent years
- Access to food is “a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of economic stability”
Proposal:
- Add opening of new grocery stores to current city initiatives
- Provide financial incentives for grocers to open in food desert areas
- Waive sewer, water fees, and permit fees to fast-track grocery store openings
- Cited Birmingham, Alabama success story: $500,000 in public funds for loans and grants restored the Village Market
Council Response:
Council Member Tuttle revealed her extensive background on the issue: “I actually helped conduct the food desert study in 2013, and then we did the follow-up, the hurdles to healthy access to healthy food in 2015, and then two subsequent studies on the economic impact of the food ecosystem within Sedgwick County.”
Tuttle highlighted existing initiatives:
- 2022 adoption of City of Wichita-Sedgwick County Master Food Plan
- Three main goals: foster food system, improve access to healthy food, increase local food production
- Less than 1% of food is sourced locally in Wichita
- Food and Farm Council established with council appointments
Council Member Ballard thanked Siddiqui: “Food insecurity is incredibly important to me. I’ve been working on it for a long time, and we just need everybody to do a little bit.”
Council Member Johnson proposed additional infrastructure investment: “In addition to the incentives, we should actually be investing in food infrastructure, so how to grow food… investing in that type of infrastructure throughout a food desert area, whether that’s in-ground open gardening or, as she refers to, high tunnels where you can grow year-round.”
Siddiqui’s response emphasized accessibility: “The main thing for me is the idea of maybe a single mother who has a lot of little kids and has to walk and get on a city bus to go to a grocery store, that may take 30 minutes just one way. So I want to make healthy food as accessible as possible because healthy food is a fundamental right.”
Affordable Housing Crisis
Reverend Wade Miller, co-chair of the Justice Together Steering Committee for Affordable Housing, delivered powerful testimony on behalf of 40-plus congregations.
Key Statistics:
- Over 40% of Wichita renters are cost-burdened
- One in five renters pay over half their income for housing
- Nearly 2,000 USD 259 students are housing unstable
- Current shortage: 15,000 units
- Projected shortage: up to 40,000 units
Stories from the Community:
- Teachers report students living in cars or moving between couches
- Young families priced out of neighborhoods, forced to choose between food, utilities, and rent
- Seniors on fixed incomes supporting adult children while struggling themselves
Miller quoted Proverbs 29:7: “The righteous care about justice for the poor.”
Primary Request:
- $10 million annually for the Wichita Affordable Housing Fund
- Concerns about proposed sales tax being regressive
- Warning that “property tax relief could favor higher-income homeowners while burdening those least able to pay”
Miller’s Challenge to Council: “Will any sales tax meet Wichita’s growing housing need? Will it secure $10 million annually for the Affordable Housing Fund? And will it avoid worsening inequality for those already struggling?”
Miller’s warning: “If a proposal does not include at least $10 million in the Affordable Housing Fund, and it shifts wealth from those who have the least to those with the most, then the only faithful vote is no.”
Homelessness and Housing First
Reverend Lory Mills, deacon at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church and chaplain at ESS Breakthrough Club, represented the Justice Together Homelessness Steering Committee.
Critical Point: “The only lasting solution to homelessness is permanent, affordable housing. Everything else, shelter, services, encampment response, that all matters. But none of it ends homelessness. Only housing does that.”
Multi-Agency Center (MAC) Concerns:
- Originally promised 250+ affordable units
- Current plan: only 50 permanent supportive units and 25 non-congregate shelter beds
- No guaranteed funding or plan for additional housing
- Focus appears to be primarily shelter and services
Mills emphasized: “Shelter is not housing. Shelter is not stability. Shelter is not an exit from homelessness.”
Voucher Problem:
- Many displaced from encampments received vouchers
- Section 8 waiting list in the thousands with years-long wait times
- “A voucher without a unit is a false promise”
Mills’ plea: “Without it, we cannot meet the need. Without it, every effort will fall short. Without it, the promise of the MAC we rallied around will be an unfulfilled promise.”
Council Response:
Council Member Hoheisel expressed agreement: “We heard the recent reports that homelessness with seniors are expected to double here in the next decade. This isn’t an issue that we can piddle along on. We need real action here to make sure that we build affordable housing and we keep affordable housing.”
Hoheisel detailed sales tax considerations:
- Working with legislature to ensure no sales tax on groceries
- Discussion of rebates for lower income brackets
- “Affordable housing and the homeless services… makes the most sense for me, is affordable housing and the homeless services, because we all see the need out there”
Vice Mayor Johnston shared his private sector efforts:
- Working with Steve Feilmeier on affordable housing
- Already secured about 50 houses of affordable housing with Kevass Harding in District 1
- Working on developments south of Kellogg
- Challenge: lot owners asking $50,000 for empty lots, making projects financially unfeasible
- Spent 30 minutes with each City Manager candidate discussing affordable housing
- Dennis Marstall familiar with $5-15 million affordable housing funds from previous experience
SEIU Union Concerns
Esau Freeman, business representative for Service Employees International Union Local 513, representing the largest group of city employees, delivered pointed criticism of the City Manager selection process.
Key Points:
- SEIU Local 513 is “the largest number of employees you guys have in one group”
- These employees are “probably the least well-paid”
Compensation Concerns: Freeman stated he had “no problem” with executive compensation levels but criticized the selection process: “I was very disappointed in the process as it occurred. I think you guys had from last spring until now to really engage with people, and I didn’t see much of that happen until about the last week before everything happened.”
Process Criticisms:
- Consulting firm made “disparaging comments” about one candidate (Mark) being “long-winded”
- Donte Martin was “by far the most wanted and most qualified candidate”
- “Extreme concern for what would make a 25-year employee drop out from that job search”
- Donte Martin was “the desired candidate” with “relationships and roots in the community”
Freeman’s demand: “I want somebody to investigate and I want more answers about why Donte pulled out. Why such a good employee, such a good citizen, didn’t take the job.”
Public Works Employee Issues:
- All three candidates told Freeman “they saw no comparison in the people who purify our drinking water or fill our potholes compared to a policeman or a fireman running into a burning building”
- “We’re the biggest group, we’re the least paid, and we’re not considered heroes”
- “The day you guys don’t have fresh drinking water and there’s a boil advisory, maybe you’ll think twice”
Freeman’s observations:
- Management bullying occurs regularly at the city
- “I’m afraid that that extends itself into the City Council”
- “We can continue to make colossal mistakes on the management level and keep our jobs”
- Employees face termination for being late or missing snow removal duties
- Water treatment plant project has dragged on for “almost eight or nine years now”
Council Response:
Council Member Hoheisel stated: “First off, I do consider public works heroes. You guys are out there in the middle of the snow. We saw it this last weekend. In the middle of the night, revving up the engines, making sure that they’re ready to go. You guys face a lot of dangers on the job. I do support paying you guys as much as you’re worth, honestly. I have concerns as well.”
City Manager Employment Contract
Pam Pennington from Human Resources presented the employment contract for Dennis Marstall as the next City Manager.
Background:
- City Manager Bob Layton announced retirement earlier in 2025 after 16 years of service
- Selection Committee and stakeholders participated in interview process
- Council received three qualified candidates
- Preliminary vote on November 24: 5-2 in favor of Marstall
Mayor Wu’s Statement: “His experiences both in local government, in city and county, from small to large cities like Charlotte, and his non-profit experience, bring him to be the most qualified candidate from the pool. And we’re looking forward to having this City Manager lead the City of Wichita’s 3,000 employees and 16 departments.”
Final Vote: Motion to approve employment contract carried 5 to 2 (Nay: Brandon Johnson, Mike Hoheisel)
Substitute Motion: Council Member Johnson immediately moved to “rescind the offer and begin the process over,” citing concerns from the November 24 meeting.
Substitute motion failed 2 to 5 (Nay: Lily Wu, JV Johnston, Becky Tuttle, Dalton Glasscock, Maggie Ballard)
Council Member Johnson’s Statement: “I repeat my concerns from the last meeting. They still stand, and I think that this process, if it should happen again, should be one without some of the concerns that I mentioned and elected officials should make sure that they maintain some distance from the process.”
Council Member Hoheisel’s Statement: “Dennis seems like a fine individual. He seems like a qualified individual, and if he’s hired, I do plan on working with him and enjoying his company as much as I can. I think we’ll get along fine. I just wish that the process was cleaner, and I had more faith in the process as a whole.”
Mayor Wu’s Conclusion: “Congratulations to the new City Manager for the City of Wichita, Dennis Marstall. Looking forward to new leadership in 2026. And again, thank you to City Manager Layton for his 16 years of service to the City of Wichita.”
Affordable Housing Revenue Bonds
The Council approved three separate letters of intent for affordable housing projects using Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and revenue bonds.
Interdale Apartments (District VI)
Applicant: Interdale Marjoy Apartments, LLC
Presenter: Shane Pullman, Developer
Location: 916-930 North Broadway
Project Details:
- Historic building renovation
- 30 affordable housing units
- $8 million in Industrial Revenue Bonds ($266,000 per unit)
- Property currently in “significant disrepair” with boarded-up windows
- Built in 1950 with “stunning masonry work”
Financial Structure:
- Combining State and Federal LIHTC credits
- Historical State and Federal tax credits
- Attempting to minimize burden on Kansas Housing Resources Corporation
- Deferring part of developer fee
Critical Dependency: Pullman stated unequivocally: “Short answer is no” when asked if project would proceed without LIHTC credits. “The numbers do not make sense on what the rents could demand if LIHTC is not successful.”
High Cost Explanation:
- Utility allowance requirements for LIHTC and HUD
- Elevated energy standards (recent years)
- “Going to be some of the most energy efficient apartments that are in downtown Wichita”
- Historical restoration requirements and costs
- Buildings in significant disrepair
Scattered Site Project:
- 930 North Broadway (vacant lot for additional parking)
- Combined with Marjoy Apartments application
- All parcels considered one project for LIHTC purposes
Council Discussion:
Mayor Wu questioned demolition versus renovation: “Have you ever considered what it would cost to demolish and do something brand new, or you’re only simply wanting to renovate?”
Pullman’s response: “It actually is the most beneficial to utilize the Federal funding to achieve the lowest possible rents by the historic revitalization of this property. So it utilizes so many different sources of funding that that is the best way in comparison to the cost of an entire new build project.”
Council Member Ballard shared personal experience: “I used to deliver Meals on Wheels there and was appalled that people were actually living in conditions such as Interdale. So I just wanted to say thank you so much for that.”
Vote: Motion to close public hearing, adopt resolution, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Marjoy Apartments (District III)
Applicant: Interdale Marjoy Apartments, LLC
Location: 1240-1250 South Market
Project Details:
- 36 affordable housing units
- $7 million in revenue bonds ($194,000 per unit)
- Building vacant for at least 5 years (possibly longer)
- Property owner purchased at auction 11-12 years ago
- One or two tenants still in property at time of purchase
- Building constructed in 1918 (versus Interdale’s 1950 construction)
Condition Assessment: Council Member Glasscock recalled: “I remember doing a fire ride-along with the fire station off of Broadway, and they were talking about that this often has fires. I think one night I drove by and there was a fire going on.”
Council Member Hoheisel confirmed: “It’s been significantly longer… We’ve actually had two different groups trying to do some sort of affordable housing project, including the Neighboring Movement, with that here a couple of years ago. I hear about it all the time in the neighborhood, trying to get that building back up and going. It’s a beautiful building, but yeah, it’s definitely an eyesore and a sore spot in the South Broadway Corridor.”
Financial Viability: Pullman explained that compared to Interdale, “the construction of it being 1918 versus 1950, the construction and the layouts are more conducive to a lessened budget. Not that it won’t be a significant renovation, but it’s less run down in comparison. The construction materials were just much different between those two time periods.”
Developer Investment: Pullman revealed: “One of the barriers to LIHTC in general is the significant cost that come with these applications. Our group has well over $200,000 into this project already, and this is our second application.”
Mayor Wu’s Response: “Thank you again, Shane, and thank you to your team in trying to provide affordable housing in the community and revitalizing vacant lots – or vacant buildings. I know that this will be, again, a risk in terms of you don’t know if you will get LIHTC granted or not. Good luck. This Council, I can speak on their behalf that we are interested in housing in our community, and we’re interested in people that want to build housing or renovate so that there is housing at all different price points.”
Council Member Glasscock’s Statement: “I think you’re right. This is what affordable housing can look like in Wichita, and I think when there’s two projects that make sense, it’s these two projects. These are two beautiful buildings from the outside that just haven’t been maintained, and I hope that you can receive LIHTC credits on this. I hope that the state reforms their process to allow more of these projects to happen.”
Council Member Hoheisel noted: “In today’s world, it’s hard to get anything done without some sort of government subsidy as far as affordable housing goes, so let’s also keep that in mind as we have ongoing discussions about how to make sure to ensure affordable housing in our community.”
Vote: Motion to close public hearing, adopt resolution, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Envision Inc. Industrial Revenue Bonds (District III)
Applicant: Envision, Inc. (501c3 nonprofit)
Presenter: Mark Eaton, Chief Financial Officer
Purpose: Tax-exempt bond issuance for facility improvements
Organization Background:
- Founded in 1933 (92 years of service)
- Approximately 100 employees who are blind or visually impaired
- Provides employment, services, and programs for citizens who are blind or visually impaired
Employment Opportunities:
- Direct labor manufacturing for government contracts
- 100% blind/visually impaired customer service department
- 100% blind/visually impaired call center
- Blind/visually impaired employees in accounting and IT
Services and Programs:
- Early Childhood Development Center: Children ages 5 weeks to 5 years
- Model: 50% blind/visually impaired children, 50% typically sighted children
- Teaching empathy and inclusion from age one
- Low Vision Clinic: Serving people with macular degeneration or glaucoma
- Navigation training for daily life activities (cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping)
- Currently serving approximately 1,600 individuals
- $4 million annual investment in services/programs with no reimbursement from city, county, or state
Financial Structure:
- Products sold to government generate profit
- All profits reinvested into organization
- Sedgwick County purchased building at 610 North Main
- Commitment to reinvest all proceeds into Wichita facilities
- Bond request: $615,000 in sales tax deferral
- Eaton noted: “It might take about $10 million of those contracts to get to $615,000. Those are very low margin, and they’re a lot of work.”
Council Discussion:
Mayor Wu confirmed the 501c3 status and general tax-exempt nature with Troy Anderson.
Council Member Glasscock shared personal experience: “About 10 years ago I worked for Envision at the Water Street location, and to see the work that you all do every single day for the blind and visually impaired is incredible. Most of my colleagues that worked around me were blind or visually impaired, and just to see the talent that they brought to the workforce to have that type of space in our community is incredible.”
Glasscock praised the relocation: “I’m glad that you’re moving all the operations to the Water Street location. I think this is a win in terms of transit, in terms of accessibility for people to get to the facility.”
Council Member Hoheisel added: “This is definitely needed throughout our community, and I do appreciate the investment in South Wichita. I used to walk right by this location every day on my way to and from school, so it’s very known to me, but you guys are doing great work out there working with people who are bringing a lot of energy and a lot of experience to a particular field of employment.”
Council Member Tuttle abstained due to conflict of interest.
Vote: Motion to close public hearing, adopt resolution, and authorize necessary signatures carried 6 to 0 (Tuttle abstaining)
Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments
Gary Janzen from Public Works & Utilities presented one of the most contentious items of the meeting: proposed water and sewer rate adjustments for 2026.
Financial Context
Current System Scale:
- 4,000 lane miles of underground water and sewer pipes
- Serves Wichita and wholesale customers (Derby, Valley Center, others)
- Major infrastructure projects ongoing
Key Drivers for Rate Increases:
- New water treatment plant operational costs
- Chemical and energy cost increases (post-COVID, not stabilized)
- Underground infrastructure renewal and replacement (purple portion of pie chart)
- Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) plant improvements
- Debt service coverage requirements
Historical Context: Council Member Hoheisel recalled: “When I first got on Council, was it around 5-1/2%?”
Janzen confirmed rates had been lower before major infrastructure project discussions began.
Hoheisel noted: “I do appreciate you showing the one here. I think we used some extra ARPA funds to do the rebate program.”
Janzen confirmed various funding sources were utilized during that period.
Rate Increase Options Presented
Three options presented for 2026-2030:
Option 1: Most conservative increases Option 2: Moderate increases
Option 3: Highest increases but ensuring debt coverage ratio above 125%
Projected Rate Structure (Option 3):
- 2026: 7% increase
- 2027: 7% increase
- 2028: 7% increase
- 2029: 7% increase
- 2030: 5% increase
Average Low-Volume Customer Impact:
- Current (2025): Approximately $62/month
- Projected over decade: Approaching $90-100/month
Wholesale Customer Impact
Derby and Valley Center Reduction:
- Currently using 1.4 billion gallons annually
- Expected reduction to 1 billion gallons
- Net reduction: 400 million gallons per year
Reasons for reduction:
- Drought restrictions
- Required 3-day per week watering implementation
- Potential industrial/commercial growth could offset
Debt Service Coverage Requirements
City Manager Layton explained the critical importance: “The cost of our debt depends on our bond rating, and how our financial health is determined by the rating agencies. The bond covenants themselves require that we have 120% coverage. We are at probably better than our rating even because our financial condition on our GO debt. The same applies to the utility because we have consistently stayed at least 120%, and usually hovered more around 125% or better.”
Layton emphasized: “Should we ever get to a point where the rating agencies question our ability to cover the debt, or meet their required coverage ratio, then I think we would see higher borrowing costs which would impact rates more than what you’re looking at today.”
Multi-Year Rate Setting Discussion
Council Member Glasscock initiated a significant policy discussion: “We’re having this conversation today. Every year, we come back with yearly rates. We know that we would need option three with current projections to maintain debt coverage service levels through there. What would be the harm in setting rates for 5 years, give people the foresight in what maybe additional charges will be able to be?”
Benefits of multi-year approach:
- Predictability for residents and businesses
- Reduced annual Council deliberation unless circumstances change
- Better budgeting capability for ratepayers
- Only return to Council if significant market changes occur
Janzen’s response: “I think we would be comfortable with the numbers that you see here, whichever option is being contemplated for the next 5 years to set those rates… If we’re able to make those work, we wouldn’t necessarily have to do this every year… That helps us understand what we might be looking at for rates at the same time. Just like it helps our customers. It helps us understand what we can expect going forward.”
City Manager Layton clarified: “Predictability only comes with option three. There’s too much risk associated with predictability on one and two because just even some kind of variation on our finances in one year in ’27 or ’28, would probably get us dangerously close to or below the coverage ratio.”
Council Member Tuttle suggested caution: “Five years, if you look back 5 years ago to 2020, who would’ve thought we went through what we went through, right? And so three years almost brings me a little bit more comfort.”
Janzen responded to 3 vs. 5 year question: “Three years might be a little bit more predictable at this point, but I’d feel comfortable with what we show here even at 5 years.”
Impact on Low-Income Residents
Council Member Hoheisel delivered passionate remarks about equity concerns: “What a lot of people’s consternation is with this is how much it hits poor people, working people, people on a fixed income. I’ve been consistent on it. I’ve been a pain in your guys’ rear for 4 years on this.”
Hoheisel cited specific data:
- Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) for Social Security/federal disability:
- This year: 2.8% increase
- Last year: 2.5% increase
- Previous year: 3.2% increase
- Rate increases consuming larger share of fixed incomes
Hoheisel’s example: “I have a widow in my district who lives on $8,000 a year in Social Security. That’s pretty tough to do, especially with additional chunks taken out… That’s going to continue to cut into people, poor people, disabled people, again, seniors living on the fixed income.”
Hoheisel’s request: “I’d like to see something that’s a little more top end heavy as far as adjustments goes to take a little less bite out of the working people, out of the people who have less and less to work with in the upcoming years.”
Assistance Programs
Janzen highlighted existing support:
- Over $60,000 per year in assistance program funds available
- Thousands of payment plans in place annually
- No finance costs on payment plans
- Staff educated to communicate assistance options to challenged customers
City Manager Layton proposed expansion: “You could designate some additional utility funds for assistance programs that would be targeted similar to the way H2O is targeted. And I don’t think you’ll hurt the pro forma. So you could take it to an $80,000 or $100,000 level, which would exceed what the demand for the program has been.”
Layton noted: “Even in the time that we had supplemental assistance from the federal government for utility payments, we never got to the $80,000 range.”
Hoheisel’s response: “It’s also tough to get the word out on these programs to a lot of people who are in need. But even if they’re on a plan, they still have to pay that. That’s still money that they have to.”
Infrastructure Investment Necessity
City Manager Layton emphasized underground infrastructure: “That purple portion, a lot of that is for underground expense. And I don’t know that any of us want to be in a position to talk about continued erosion of the condition of our underground infrastructure because we had to short our rates in order to address those needs. And nobody wants another boil order that we suffered through a few years ago.”
Layton continued: “There was a lot of discussion at that time regarding reinvestment in our underground infrastructure. And what you’re approving, yes, has impact on the debt for the new treatment plants, but more importantly, it finances what we need to do in order to maintain the condition of an acceptable condition of our underground infrastructure.”
Layton on past challenges: “That was one of the problems we had in delivering rate messages when I first came here, is there was a lot of discussion about size of the increases, but not looking at the consequences of holding back on rate increases and not fully funding the utility in order to make it a sound business and have a predictable water source and sewage treatment operations for our community.”
Water Treatment Plant Concerns
Council Member Ballard expressed hesitation: “It’s really hard for me to have this conversation with all of the uncertainties just with the new water treatment plant. Even though we’re taking care of it and it’s being worked on and all of that, it’s just hard for me to increase the rates. I know we have to pay for it. I get that. But I just am having a hard time.”
Janzen’s reassurance: “Even to the Vice Mayor’s point, all of our expected operations and maintenance costs are included in everything that you’re seeing here. And I would reiterate that nothing has changed with this projection because of anything that’s going on at the new water treatment plant… This is where we’ve been tracking all along, whether the current issues had happened or not.”
Janzen on strategic investments: “The council did not choose to build a new plant because a current plant was ready to fall apart… There were very strategic investments made to make sure that that plant could continue to operate as we needed… Everything, all of that, all in, is a part of what we’re talking about. It’s not impacting. It hasn’t changed. It hasn’t increased this because of the Wichita Water Works.”
Vice Mayor Johnston questioned dual operations: “We actually do have an additional cost” due to hiring two staffs to operate both plants.
Janzen clarified: “It depends on your perspective of when that starts. My point was nothing is new today that we didn’t talk about last year that we didn’t already have as part of our projections in 2019. Our operational costs, you’re correct, we’ve got two staffs. We’ve had that contemplated for multiple years now.”
Johnston on recovery: “Is that something that we will go back and try to get from Wichita Water Partners, that extra staff we’re having to maintain now to operate two plants?”
City Manager Layton: “I think we need to visit about how we calculate our losses, and we’ll continue to work with our attorneys on that.”
Annual Workshop Commitment
Mayor Wu emphasized ongoing oversight: “Even if something passed with either a 3 or 5 years, every workshop, every year, this could come up. I mean, we had this workshop in October, so we got to see all of this information prior to today… However, there was an addition to the expectation. I would concur that we should always be looking at this on a yearly basis, and I would say that every year, there needs to be a workshop specific to water and sewer.”
Wu expanded scope: “I would also encourage a workshop specifically to public works, because as Gary mentioned earlier, I think a lot of folks don’t know how big the system, the public works and utilities system really is. You mentioned 4,000 lane miles of pipes.”
Wu on core functions: “It’s important to remind our community that among the core functions of local government are police, fire and public works, which means your streets, your sewer, your water. So I would like to always have a workshop once a year that focuses solely not just on water and sewer, but another one on just public works, so streets, and then another one on police, and another one on fire.”
City Manager Layton committed to annual reporting: “This is too big a business operation not to have an annual report, so we would definitely bring something back and October’s always been a good time to come back. If City Manager Marstall is willing to do this, we had already teed up as a request from the bench previously, discussions probably starting in January on our decision support tools and how we make recommendations on the various classes of infrastructure improvements.”
Public Comment
Doug Ballard (Riverside, District 6) raised infrastructure concerns:
- Questions about leakage rate
- Miles of 12-inch and larger water main over 40 years old
- Criticized fescue grass as “extreme luxury at the expense of the rest of the community”
- Suggested separate meters for irrigation systems
- Advocated for progressive rates for high-volume users (over 15,000 gallons/month)
- Proposed 20-year moratorium on city limits expansion
- Noted city has doubled in size in last 50 years, creating infrastructure challenges
Janzen’s response on leaks: “We do monitor leaks. We monitor breaks. There’s not enough resources to make all of our pipes new, so we have to fix them as we go. We have to strategically, based on that DST, make the decisions at the right time when pipes need to be replaced and need to be upgraded… We’re trying to keep our overall system in the best shape that we can, without looking at rate increases that would be double what we’re talking about today.”
Final Vote
Motion by Council Member Glasscock: “Approve option 3 for 2026-2028 as presented by staff, place the ordinance on first reading and authorize the necessary signatures. Require that every October have a workshop regarding water/sewer rates.”
Council Member Tuttle proposed friendly amendment: Change from 5 years to 3 years as pilot program.
Glasscock and Mayor Wu accepted friendly amendment.
Final vote on 3-year rate increase (Option 3, 2026-2028): Motion carried 4 to 3
- Nay votes: JV Johnston, Mike Hoheisel, Maggie Ballard
Rate Structure Approved:
- 2026: 7% increase
- 2027: 7% increase
- 2028: 7% increase
- Annual October workshop on water/sewer rates required
Union Contract Approvals
The Council approved three separate union contracts representing significant portions of the city workforce.
IAFF Local 135 (Firefighters)
Presenter: Jason Hood, Human Resources
Union Representative: Ted Bush, President of IAFF 135
Contract Term: 3 years
Key Provisions:
- Wage increases: 3.5% + 2.5% (total 6%)
- New maternity leave benefit: 30 days advance notice required
- Contract approved by 95% of union membership
- Voter turnout: 63.5% of IAFF membership
Ted Bush’s Statement: “Since 1999 Wichita’s fire alarm load has increased by 90%. Operational staffing during that time, the firefighters making the alarms only increased by 13%. On many days due to budget decisions, units are taken off track, leaving even fewer firefighters to respond. This is not only dangerous for firefighters but most importantly for the citizens we serve.”
Cancer Risk Recognition: “We must reach a point where the city fully accepts and acknowledges that firefighting causes cancer. The CDC classifies our occupation as a Group 1 carcinogen. That means cancer is an occupational hazard unlike any other job in the City of Wichita. This greater cancer risk not only affects us now but well into retirement.”
Bush noted progress: “With the help of Councilwoman Becky Tuttle we have made strong progress in our health and wellness initiatives. Especially around cancer detection, treatment and prevention.”
Unresolved Issue: “We attempted to secure a contract provision that would ensure the city would cover sick leave for these members who are stricken with occupational cancer but we weren’t able to get there. Through dialog we are hopeful for change in the future.”
Council Discussion:
Council Member Tuttle gave credit: “I appreciate all you do. And thank you for the kudos. But I also want to give a kudos to Chief Tammy Snow who is in the back. I think the three of us have worked exceptionally well together.”
Council Member Hoheisel inquired about maternity leave emergency scenarios, clarified the 30-day minimum advance notice requirement.
Council Member Hoheisel asked about high school programs: Chief Tammy Snow confirmed: “South High School, we support the South High School program. And it’s a year-long program.”
Mayor Wu asked about starting pay for firefighters for visiting Southeast High School students: Jason Hood provided: $22.39 per hour
Council Member Tuttle clarified: “I had a community member reach out to me and say that this is sort of a pilot for just maternity leave and not paternity leave at this time. Is that correct?” Hood confirmed: “I wouldn’t call it a pilot. But it is for maternity and not paternity.”
Mayor Wu’s concluding remarks: “I’m very appreciative of the firefighters who serve our community. And I’m very glad to see that there was a lot of conversations between multiple parties to reach this agreement that is 3 years in length.”
Vote: Motion to approve carried 7 to 0
Teamsters Transit Local 795
Presenter: Jason Hood, Human Resources
Contract Details:
- Transit union agreement
- Wage and benefit adjustments
- Standard contract provisions for transit workers
Vote: Motion to approve carried 7 to 0
Teamsters Airport Local 795
Presenter: Jason Hood, Human Resources
Contract Term: 2025-2028
Contract Details:
- Airport operations union agreement
- Wage and benefit adjustments
- Three-year term
Mayor Wu’s Statement: “I just want to be cognizant that property taxes also went up, and so it is because we have to pay fairly our individuals who work for the City of Wichita. And so I’m very grateful to the HR staff in working with multiple entities in getting three different contracts before the council to approve today. I know it’s a lot of hard work, and, again, negotiations require compromise. And so I appreciate Jason going back to the table and making sure that all employees are treated fairly and compensated appropriately.”
Vote: Motion to approve carried 7 to 0
Golf Course Irrigation Improvements
Jesse Coffman from the Golf Division presented a resolution for irrigation system improvements at municipal golf courses.
Project Details:
- Funding for irrigation improvements at city golf courses
- Previous project came in $300,000 under budget
- Savings applied to $400,000 payment and aggressive debt payoff schedule
- Using GO bonds and Golf System funding
Council Discussion:
Council Member Hoheisel questioned the $300,000 savings: “Where did we put that money, that savings?”
Coffman explained multiple funding sources: Golf System funds, park renovations fund, and GO bonds. Savings will go toward the $400,000 payment and allow more aggressive 2027 debt payoff.
Vice Mayor Johnston praised golf operations: “Jesse, I just want to thank you for the great job you’re doing. That’s why you’re repaying that debt back sooner, because you’re doing a great job, getting a lot of play, maybe too much play at the golf courses… It really means a lot to the golfing community, and it really means a lot to a community to have good, really good public golf courses. It’s not necessarily CEOs that are playing there, but it’s all those middle managers, the people that actually make things go that play there, including me.”
Vote: Motion to authorize project initiation, adopt bonding resolution, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Parks Improvements
Timothy Kellams from Public Works & Utilities presented funding for improvements to two parks in District I.
A. Price Woodard Jr. Memorial Park
Improvements:
- Removal of dilapidated restroom facility
- Park enhancements to match West Bank development
- Water fountain restoration/redesign discussion
Council Member Glasscock praised the project: “I wish there was a photo of the former restroom near A. Price Woodard Park because it is incredibly dilapidated. So I’m glad to see that removed, especially with the development happening on the West Bank. I think matching that on the East Bank is a very positive move, and especially the removal of that restroom.”
Water Fountain Discussion:
Glasscock questioned: “There’s two large structures there that have historically been used as water fountains. Obviously, the city is moving away from that towards conservation. Is there a plan to – what is the plan with those water fountains?”
Kellams: “I don’t think that there’s plans to eliminate those water fountains. I think while we’re still approved to do so through the water restrictions, we would then have them on and working.”
City Manager Layton on water conditions: “Actually, I think now that we’re in a different stage, we actually could consider putting fountains, restoring our fountains. I don’t think, given our current water conditions that it warrants us not having them operate next year.”
Layton on creative alternatives: “I’ve shared with a few of you what some cities had done creatively with old fountains that sometimes are difficult to maintain, and there’s some creative ways of creating gathering areas and focal points in parks that don’t have to necessarily be traditional fountains… Could turn out to be an attraction.”
Glasscock’s interest: “I’d be very interested in exploring that, and getting away from maybe what we’ve done previously.”
Layton: “Placemaking. I kept working for that.”
Chester I. Lewis Park
Improvements:
- Utility infrastructure improvements
- Supporting park development and community needs
Council Member Johnson noted: “I have spoken with the NAACP about Finlay Ross and this potential action from the council, and they are good with that. They are continuing to work towards their efforts.”
Johnson added: “If there is a policy change for future council fountains, make sure that you let Council Member (Shepard) in, because he’ll be working with them on that because they’re looking through a design piece of Finlay Ross.”
Vote: Motion to approve projects, adopt bonding resolutions, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Heavy Equipment and Snow Equipment Replacement
Aaron Henning from Public Works & Utilities presented the 2026 Capital Improvement Program for fleet replacement.
Funding Sources:
- GO bonds for heavy equipment
- GO bonds for snow equipment
- Regular fleet replacement cycle
Council Discussion:
Council Member Johnson asked about delivery timeline: “If we initiate those funds, and you make the order, what is the wait time on that? Is it a number of years or would that all be delivered next year?”
Henning: “It kind of varies depending on what the piece of equipment is, but I would guesstimate that we’re around 6 months to maybe pushing a year and a half depending on what the asset is.”
Vote: Motion to approve projects, adopt bonding resolutions, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
BNR Plant Change Order
Gary Janzen presented Change Order No. 1 and transfer of funds for Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) Plant 2, Package 2.
Key Points:
- Project remains within overall budget
- Necessary adjustments for ongoing construction
- District III project
Council Member Hoheisel noted: “Seems like it’s District 3 day today. Thank you, Gary. I appreciate that. Just a note to everybody, this is still within the overall budget of the project.”
Vote: Motion to approve transfer of funds, change orders, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Planning Agenda Items
944 S. Topeka Planned Unit Development (District III)
Scott Wadle from Planning Department presented a PUD zone change request.
Location: One block east of South Broadway Avenue and three blocks south of East Kellogg Avenue
Unique Circumstances: Council Member Hoheisel explained: “This is a unique case… For example, the units cannot be grouped together side-by-side because that’s what would make the required fire suppressant system. But if they are simply stacked on their own standalone then that means there is no need for fire suppressant.”
Mayor Wu noted: “Council Member Glasscock, Vice Mayor Johnston and I had a Teams call with the applicant yesterday after that meeting. We also received emails from multiple residents around the area who were opposed to this project.”
Hoheisel’s motion: “I will be delaying this for 1 week, just to make sure that we give due process to everything. The applicant is here and if anybody from Council wishes to ask a question at this time that’s fine with me. Also, if you guys just want to wait and reach out sometime this week as well, whatever you guys are comfortable with.”
Vote: Motion to defer to December 9, 2025 meeting carried 7 to 0
Trinity Park PUD (District IV)
Location: Northeast corner of South Hoover Road and West 47th Street South
Council Member Glasscock requested delay: “I’ve spoken with the applicant and then also some neighbors and we’re still trying to figure out maybe a compromise solution. And so instead of going through the presentation I would like to delay this.”
Vote: Motion to defer to December 16, 2025 meeting carried 7 to 0
Eastside Community Church CUP #365 (District II)
Scott Wadle presented zone change and conditional use permit.
Location: Northwest corner of East 21st Street North and North 143rd Street East (14242 East 21st Street North)
Change: SF-5 Single-Family Residential to LC Limited Commercial with church conditional use permit
Council Member Tuttle’s Extensive Disclosure: “Scott and I spent a beautiful afternoon in the cul-de-sac with the neighbors. I probably have received as much communication regarding this case as almost any that we’ve had other than maybe a car wash a couple of weeks ago. I have had ex parte communication with the applicant. I’ve had ex parte communication with the agent who is joining us today. And I have had ex parte communication with the residents.”
Tuttle’s Praise: “I want to thank the applicant, not only for investing in our community but for attending all of the meetings that the community members were at, the ones at the church, wherever. But also listening to the residents and making the modifications that were made. I served on this Council for 7 years. I served on the District Advisory Board for 5 years prior. And in 12 years I’ve never seen such compromise happen. So truly, truly impressive.”
Vote: Motion to adopt MAPC findings, approve zone change and CUP creation, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0 (requires 4 of 7 votes)
Housing Agenda
Sale of 29 Public Housing Properties
Carmen Hoffine from Housing & Community Services presented real estate sale contracts for 29 public housing properties.
Buyers:
- Patterson Home Solutions: 3 properties
- Seek First Rentals, LLC: 6 properties
- Large Enterprise ownership entities: 20 properties (three separate contracts: S&S Wichita Properties, JDC Capital, B&B Wichita Properties)
Vote: Motion to approve five Real Estate Sale Contracts and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Wichita RAD Senior LP Verizon Cell Tower Easement
Sally Stang from Housing and Community Services presented a letter of interest for Verizon cell tower easement on senior housing property.
Vote: Motion to authorize execution of letter of interest on behalf of City of Wichita and Wichita Housing Authority carried 7 to 0
Airport Agenda
Hanger Dynamics Jabara Airport Revenue Bonds (District II)
Troy Anderson presented a public hearing and letter of intent for Airport Special Facility Revenue Bonds for Hanger Dynamics Jabara, LLC.
Vote: Motion to close public hearing, adopt resolution, and authorize necessary signatures carried 7 to 0
Council Member Johnson’s Note: “I just wanted to note in the public record that we just approved a cell tower. And a few years ago in the legislature it was said by one or multiple lobbying teams and companies that the City of Wichita denies cell towers all the time. I just wanted on the record that we did not and we usually do not. We may ask questions but since it was said that Wichita does I just wanted to point out we do not.”
Council Member Business
Key to the City Resolution
Mayor Wu requested: “I would like staff to craft a resolution that will allow for any Council member that is retiring from their position to receive a symbolic key to the city. This precedent was created last year when Council member Frey, Council member Blubaugh and then Mayor Whipple received the key to the City.”
Council Member Tuttle noted: “We have a policy already so I’m not sure how those are going to work. But I did want to state for the record that I’ve already submitted an application for the key for the city for Council Member Johnson. And it was approved by five council members. So we have Council Member Johnson taken care of. And it will be an honor to recognize him here in about a month as he is going on to bigger and better things.”
Common Consumption Delano Expansion
Council Member Glasscock proposed expansion of the Delano common consumption pilot program.
Background:
- Common Consumption Delano has been “very successful”
- Chief of Police confirmed no incidents
- Multiple Delano businesses expressed interest in daily operations
- Currently limited pilot program
Motion by Glasscock: “Have staff prepare an amendment to Title 4.08 of the city code which allows common consumption in the Delano district, that would allow common consumption in Delano every day. And then this item be prepared for consideration by City Council at a future council meeting.”
Vote: Motion carried 7 to 0
Adjournment
Special Recognition:
Mayor Wu welcomed Southeast High School students: “Before we move, I’m going to use my point of privilege and just welcome the Southeast High School students who are in attendance at our Tuesday council meeting. Thank you for joining us. They’re here to learn about civic engagement and civics education. So thank you for joining us for a live City Council meeting.”
Council Member Johnson added: “Just to let the Southeast folks know, this is the house of Northeast Magnet the only undefeated school in the City of Wichita.”
Adjournment Time: 1:55 p.m.
Final Vote: Motion to adjourn carried 6 to 1 (Nay: Brandon Johnson)
Analysis and Key Themes
1. Leadership Transition and Process Concerns
The approval of Dennis Marstall as City Manager revealed significant divisions within the council and raised questions about the selection process. The 5-2 vote, with immediately subsequent substitute motion to restart the process (failing 2-5), demonstrated that concerns extended beyond the two dissenting votes. Esau Freeman’s public testimony about Donte Martin withdrawing from consideration despite being “the desired candidate” suggested internal organizational dynamics that remain unresolved. Freeman’s demand for investigation into why a 25-year employee would withdraw from such a prominent position indicates potential workplace culture issues that may require attention from the incoming City Manager.
2. Affordable Housing Crisis as Central Theme
Affordable housing emerged as perhaps the most emotionally charged and substantive issue of the meeting. Reverend Wade Miller and Reverend Lory Mills represented thousands of faith community members demanding $10 million annually for the Wichita Affordable Housing Fund. Their testimony connected to:
- The Interdale and Marjoy Apartments renovation projects requiring LIHTC credits
- Vice Mayor Johnston’s private sector work with Steve Feilmeier securing 50 affordable housing units
- Council Member Tuttle’s decade-plus work on food desert and housing issues
- The broader context of rising homelessness, particularly among seniors
The faith community’s conditional support for any sales tax proposal (“if it doesn’t include at least $10 million… then the only faithful vote is no”) established clear expectations for upcoming fiscal decisions.
3. Infrastructure Investment vs. Affordability Tension
The water/sewer rate debate crystallized fundamental tensions in municipal finance:
- Option 3’s 7% annual increases (2026-2028) exceeding typical COLA adjustments (2.5-3.2%)
- Council Member Hoheisel’s widow constituent living on $8,000/year Social Security
- Underground infrastructure requiring $millions annually (purple portion of pie chart)
- Debt service coverage ratio requirements (125%) for bond ratings
- Trade-offs between service reliability (avoiding boil orders) and affordability
The innovative three-year rate-setting approach with annual workshops represented a compromise between predictability and flexibility, though the 4-3 vote margin suggests ongoing challenges building consensus on utility finance.
4. Labor Relations and Compensation Equity
Multiple labor themes intersected:
- IAFF Local 135’s 95% approval (63.5% turnout) contrasted with process concerns
- Ted Bush’s cancer recognition advocacy highlighting occupational health disparities
- Esau Freeman’s SEIU testimony on public works employees being “least paid” and “not considered heroes”
- All three union contracts approved 7-0 despite 6% firefighter raises exceeding water rate increases
Mayor Wu’s acknowledgment that “property taxes also went up… because we have to pay fairly our individuals who work for the City of Wichita” connected compensation, service delivery, and revenue challenges.
5. Food Systems and Community Health
Noura Siddiqui’s testimony on 44 square miles of food deserts demonstrated sophisticated understanding of policy options (Birmingham’s $500,000 fund model) and equity concerns (single mothers spending 60+ minutes on transit to access groceries). Council Member Tuttle’s disclosure of conducting the 2013 food desert study, subsequent 2015 “hurdles to healthy access” research, and economic impact studies established her as institutional knowledge holder. The Master Food Plan and Food and Farm Council represent existing infrastructure that could be leveraged for Siddiqui’s proposals.
Council Member Johnson’s suggestion to invest in “food infrastructure” (growing capacity, high tunnels) complemented Siddiqui’s grocery store access focus, suggesting multi-pronged approaches.
6. Historic Preservation as Affordable Housing Strategy
The Interdale and Marjoy Apartments projects demonstrated how historic tax credits, LIHTC, and revenue bonds can combine to make otherwise unfeasible renovations viable. Shane Pullman’s disclosure of $200,000+ investment in applications (second attempt) illustrated the risk developers assume. The unit costs ($266,000 for Interdale, $194,000 for Marjoy) exceeded new construction but utilized multiple federal funding streams and preserved architecturally significant buildings in the South Broadway Corridor.
Council Member Glasscock’s statement that “this is what affordable housing can look like in Wichita” and Hoheisel’s observation that “it’s hard to get anything done without some sort of government subsidy as far as affordable housing goes” acknowledged market realities while supporting creative financing.
7. Inclusive Economic Development
Envision Inc.’s 92-year history serving the blind and visually impaired community, with 100 employees with disabilities and 1,600 individuals served annually, exemplified inclusive economic development. The $4 million annual unreimbursed investment in services, funded by government contract profits, demonstrated sustainable social enterprise models. Council Member Glasscock’s personal experience working at Envision added credibility to the endorsement.
The Early Childhood Development Center’s integrated model (50% blind/visually impaired, 50% typically sighted children) teaching empathy from age one represented early intervention in building inclusive communities.
8. Public Engagement and Process
The meeting featured unusual levels of public participation:
- Justice Together representing 40+ congregations with 1,250 at Nehemiah Assembly
- Southeast High School students observing for civics education
- Esau Freeman’s direct challenge to council processes
- Noura Siddiqui and others using public comment effectively
Council Member Tuttle’s statement about the Eastside Community Church case — “in 12 years I’ve never seen such compromise happen” — suggested that meaningful applicant-neighborhood engagement, while rare, can achieve results satisfying regulatory approval standards and community concerns.
9. Deferred Decision-Making
Two PUD deferrals (944 S. Topeka and Trinity Park) demonstrated council willingness to slow processes for additional stakeholder engagement. Council Member Glasscock’s transparent statement “we’re still trying to figure out maybe a compromise solution” and Hoheisel’s emphasis on “due process” and allowing council members time to “reach out and discuss concerns” suggested a deliberative approach prioritizing quality outcomes over timeline pressures.
10. Transition and Continuity
The meeting marked significant transitions:
- Bob Layton’s 16 years of service ending
- Dennis Marstall’s appointment beginning
- Council Member Johnson’s upcoming departure (noted by Tuttle’s key to city application)
- Southeast High School students representing next generation of civic participants
Mayor Wu’s welcome to students and Council Member Johnson’s Northeast Magnet pride suggested attention to youth engagement and succession in civic life.
Looking Forward
The December 2, 2025 meeting set the stage for several ongoing challenges:
Immediate (Next 3-6 months):
- Implementation of three-year water/sewer rate structure
- Sales tax proposal debate with affordable housing funding component
- Dennis Marstall’s transition to City Manager role
- Donte Martin investigation/clarification regarding withdrawal
- Council Member Johnson’s departure and recognition
Medium-term (6-12 months):
- LIHTC application outcomes for Interdale and Marjoy projects
- Common Consumption Delano expansion implementation
- Decision support tool workshops (January-February for infrastructure classes)
- Annual workshops on water/sewer, public works, police, fire (per Mayor Wu’s proposal)
- Food desert initiatives implementation (Master Food Plan execution)
Long-term (1-3 years):
- Affordable housing fund establishment and capitalization
- Senior homelessness doubling (per projections)
- Water treatment plant completion and old plant conversion to emergency use
- BNR plant completion
- Underground infrastructure renewal program execution
- Multi-Agency Center (MAC) outcomes assessment
The meeting demonstrated a council grappling with fundamental questions about municipal finance equity, infrastructure investment timing, affordable housing strategies, and the balance between growth and service quality. The 4-3 and 5-2 votes on major items suggest ongoing coalition-building challenges, while unanimous votes on union contracts, housing bonds, and several infrastructure items indicate areas of broad consensus.
Mayor Wu’s emphasis on core local government functions (police, fire, public works) and commitment to annual departmental workshops suggested an administration-led effort to build public understanding of service costs and infrastructure needs. Whether this educational approach can build sufficient support for the revenue measures necessary to fund affordable housing, infrastructure renewal, and competitive employee compensation remains the central question facing Wichita’s municipal government in 2026.
Citation
Wichita City Council. Minutes of the Meeting of the City Council. Wichita, Kansas, December 2, 2025.
This blog post provides comprehensive coverage of the December 2, 2025 Wichita City Council meeting based on official minutes. All quotes are verbatim from the official record. For complete details, please refer to the full meeting minutes and video recording available on the City of Wichita website.