Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Citizens commission on local government in counties.

 

Kansas Statutes Chapter 19. Counties and County Officers § 19-2670. Citizens commission on local government in counties between 170,000 and 200,000; membership; qualifications

Current as of January 01, 2024 | Updated by FindLaw Staff

There shall be created and established a citizens commission on local government in every county in this state having a population of more than one hundred seventy thousand (170,000) and not more than two hundred thousand (200,000). Such commission shall consist of: (1) The board of county commissioners of the county; (2) the governing body of all cities of the first class located in such county; (3) the trustee of each township in such county; (4) the chairmen of the boards of education of all school districts located in such county; (5) the chairmen of boards of public utilities of all cities located in such county; (6) the chairmen of boards of all drainage districts located within such county; (7) the mayors of all cities of the second and third class located in such county; and (8) eighteen (18) persons who shall be selected and appointed by the members hereinbefore provided. Such persons shall be residents of the county and shall not be officers or employees of the county or any city, school district, township, board of public utilities or drainage district.

The ex officio members of such commission shall meet forthwith at a time and place designated by the chairman of the board of county commissioners and proceed to select and appoint the eighteen (18) additional members and fix a date for an organizational meeting of such commission. On the date fixed for such meeting members of the commission shall select a chairman, vice-chairman and secretary, adopt rules of procedure, provide for regular meetings at least once each month, and designate such other officers and committees as may be deemed necessary. The members of the commission shall each be entitled to one vote and all acts of such commission shall be valid and effective when approved by a majority of the members of such commission. Vacancies in the citizen membership of the commission shall be filled by appointment of the remaining members of the commission.


JEDO - this is worse than the hotel -

+om: Henry McClure <mcre13@gmail.com>

Date: Tue, Jul 8, 2025 at 2:56 PM
Subject: Re: KORA - JEDO KORA
To: City Clerk <cclerk@topeka.org>, <countyclerk@snco.us>, MCRE Media <mcre1.snco@blogger.com>, Molly Howey <mhowey@gotopeka.com>, Molly Howey <molly.howey@topekapartnership.com>, Molly Howey <mhowey@topekachamber.org>, Stephanie Moran <stephanie.moran@topekapartnership.com>, Lanell Griffith <lanell.griffith@gmail.com>



KORA 

Please provide a copy of the lease "Go Topeka" signed in the old ATT building.

Please provide a copy of the meeting minutes from the Go Topeka meeting that approved the $9.5 million for the powers of the building. 

Please provide copies of the signed contracts for all the construction that is already taking place. 

SNCO GIS
 
Address: 220 SE 6TH AVE
City State ZIP: Topeka, KS 66603
Owner Name: 220SE6TH LLC
Size: 1.13 Acres 
Parcel ID: 1093101021006000 
QuickRef ID: R25544
Appraisal Website | Taxes | Google Maps
Book/Page:  2021R00836 | Tax Unit: 001 
Subdivision:  KEYWAY CENTER SUB
Landuse:  2402-General office buildings (5+ stories) 
Mailing Name:  220SE6TH LLC
Mail Address: 534 S KANSAS AVE STE 1035 , TOPEKA KS 66603-3448 

--
Henry McClure 
Time kills deals
785-383-9994

www.henrymcclure.live


On Mon, May 19, 2025 at 11:19 AM Henry McClure <mcre13@gmail.com> wrote:

Please provide a comp of the lease "go Topeka" signed in the old ATT building.

SNCO GIS
 
Address: 220 SE 6TH AVE
City State ZIP: Topeka, KS 66603
Owner Name: 220SE6TH LLC
Size: 1.13 Acres 
Parcel ID: 1093101021006000 
QuickRef ID: R25544
Appraisal Website | Taxes | Google Maps
Book/Page:  2021R00836 | Tax Unit: 001 
Subdivision:  KEYWAY CENTER SUB
Landuse:  2402-General office buildings (5+ stories) 
Mailing Name:  220SE6TH LLC
Mail Address: 534 S KANSAS AVE STE 1035 , TOPEKA KS 66603-3448 

--om: Henry McClure <mcre13@gmail.com>

Date: Tue, Jul 8, 2025 at 2:56 PM
Subject: Re: KORA - JEDO KORA
To: City Clerk <cclerk@topeka.org>, <countyclerk@snco.us>, MCRE Media <mcre1.snco@blogger.com>, Molly Howey <mhowey@gotopeka.com>, Molly Howey <molly.howey@topekapartnership.com>, Molly Howey <mhowey@topekachamber.org>, Stephanie Moran <stephanie.moran@topekapartnership.com>, Lanell Griffith <lanell.griffith@gmail.com>



KORA 

Please provide a copy of the lease "Go Topeka" signed in the old ATT building.

Please provide a copy of the meeting minutes from the Go Topeka meeting that approved the $9.5 million for the powers of the building. 

Please provide copies of the signed contracts for all the construction that is already taking place. 

SNCO GIS
 
Address: 220 SE 6TH AVE
City State ZIP: Topeka, KS 66603
Owner Name: 220SE6TH LLC
Size: 1.13 Acres 
Parcel ID: 1093101021006000 
QuickRef ID: R25544
Appraisal Website | Taxes | Google Maps
Book/Page:  2021R00836 | Tax Unit: 001 
Subdivision:  KEYWAY CENTER SUB
Landuse:  2402-General office buildings (5+ stories) 
Mailing Name:  220SE6TH LLC
Mail Address: 534 S KANSAS AVE STE 1035 , TOPEKA KS 66603-3448 

--
Henry McClure 
Time kills deals
785-383-9994

www.henrymcclure.live


On Mon, May 19, 2025 at 11:19 AM Henry McClure <mcre13@gmail.com> wrote:

Please provide a comp of the lease "go Topeka" signed in the old ATT building.

SNCO GIS
 
Address: 220 SE 6TH AVE
City State ZIP: Topeka, KS 66603
Owner Name: 220SE6TH LLC
Size: 1.13 Acres 
Parcel ID: 1093101021006000 
QuickRef ID: R25544
Appraisal Website | Taxes | Google Maps
Book/Page:  2021R00836 | Tax Unit: 001 
Subdivision:  KEYWAY CENTER SUB
Landuse:  2402-General office buildings (5+ stories) 
Mailing Name:  220SE6TH LLC
Mail Address: 534 S KANSAS AVE STE 1035 , TOPEKA KS 66603-3448 

--

 

Super Grok

 Key Points

  • The exact cost of Topeka's membership in the League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM) is not publicly available.
  • Based on a similar city, Tonganoxie, paying around $3,120 annually, Topeka's fee is likely higher due to its larger population.
  • Membership fees seem to be calculated based on population and property valuation, but specific figures for Topeka are unclear.
Cost EstimateThe cost of Topeka's LKM membership isn't explicitly stated online. However, Tonganoxie, with a population of about 5,592, pays just below $3,120 yearly. Given Topeka's population of around 126,587—about 22 times larger—its fee could be significantly higher, potentially in the range of $50,000 to $100,000, though this is a rough estimate.Membership BenefitsLKM membership offers benefits like policy guidance, legal resources, training, and lobbying at the Kansas Statehouse, which are valuable for municipalities like Topeka.Next StepsFor precise costs, contacting LKM directly at (785) 354-9565 or info@lkm.org is recommended, as public sources don't provide exact figures.
Comprehensive Analysis of Topeka's LKM Membership CostThis analysis explores the cost of Topeka's membership in the League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM), based on available information and comparisons with similar cities. The inquiry, conducted on July 8, 2025, leverages online resources to estimate costs and understand the fee structure, acknowledging the limitations of publicly available data.Background on LKM and MembershipThe League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM), established in 1910, is a voluntary, nonpartisan organization representing over 590 Kansas cities. It operates as a public agency under state law, with membership open to all incorporated cities in Kansas. Membership dues are crucial for funding LKM's services, which include policy guidance, legal expertise, training, and lobbying efforts at the Kansas Statehouse. These services are particularly beneficial for larger cities like Topeka, the state capital, which relies on LKM for advocacy and resource support.Fee Structure and CalculationResearch suggests that LKM membership fees are calculated based on a city's population size and assessed property valuation, as outlined in Kansas Statute Annotated (K.S.A.) 12-1610c. This tiered structure ensures equitable participation, allowing cities of varying sizes to engage with LKM's offerings. However, the exact formula or rate schedule is not publicly detailed on the LKM website or in accessible city budget documents, limiting precise calculations.Comparative Analysis with TonganoxieOne article highlights that Tonganoxie, a smaller city with a population of approximately 5,592 as of the 2020 census (projected to 6,442 by 2025), pays a total fee of just below $3,120 annually. In contrast, Topeka, with a population of 126,587 as of the 2020 census, is significantly larger—about 22.6 times the size of Tonganoxie. If fees were strictly proportional to population, Topeka's fee might be estimated at around $70,472 (22.6 × $3,120). However, given the tiered structure, which likely includes a base fee plus per capita or property-based adjustments, the actual cost could vary.To illustrate the population difference and potential fee scaling, consider the following table:
City
Population (2020 Census)
Estimated Annual LKM Fee
Tonganoxie
5,592
~$3,120
Topeka
126,587
Unknown, likely higher
This comparison suggests Topeka's fee is substantially higher, but without the exact rate structure, estimates remain speculative. For context, larger cities typically face higher dues due to their greater resource needs and capacity, aligning with the principle of equitable contribution.Search for Exact CostsEfforts to find Topeka's specific membership cost involved reviewing the LKM website, Topeka's city budget for 2025 (totaling $400.3 million, with a general fund of $128.4 million), and news articles. However, neither the LKM site nor city budget documents publicly list the LKM membership fee as a line item. The City of Topeka's official budget page and news releases, such as the proposed 2025 budget announcement , do not break down this expense. LegalClarity's article confirms the fee calculation method but lacks specific figures for Topeka.Estimating the RangeGiven the lack of exact data, a rough estimate places Topeka's fee between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, based on the population disparity and the likelihood of a non-linear fee structure. This range accounts for potential base fees and additional charges for larger populations and higher property valuations, though it remains an educated guess without official confirmation.Benefits of MembershipLKM membership provides significant value, including guidance on policy matters, legal resources, training programs, and lobbying efforts at the Kansas Statehouse. For Topeka, these services are critical for navigating state legislation and ensuring municipal interests are represented, justifying the investment in membership despite the unknown cost.Recommendations for Precise InformationThe evidence leans toward contacting LKM directly for precise costs, as public sources are insufficient. The LKM can be reached at (785) 354-9565 or via email at info@lkm.org, offering a direct channel for city officials or interested parties to obtain accurate figures.ConclusionIn summary, while the exact cost of Topeka's LKM membership is not publicly available, it is likely significantly higher than Tonganoxie's $3,120, given Topeka's larger population and budget. The fee structure, based on population and property valuation, suggests a range of $50,000 to $100,000, but this is speculative. For definitive information, direct inquiry to LKM is recommended, ensuring clarity for budgeting and planning purposes.

Termination: The commission was terminated by President Biden on January 20, 2021.

 The 1776 Project, officially known as the President's Advisory 1776 Commission, was established by then-US President Donald Trump in September 2020 to promote "patriotic education". The commission's primary goal was to counter what it viewed as a "radicalized view of American history" and to emphasize the "greatness of the American Founding,". A key outcome of the commission's work was the release of "The 1776 Report" on January 18, 2021, two days before the end of the Trump administration. 

The report and the commission itself were met with criticism from historians and other academics, who argued that the report contained factual errors, promoted a biased interpretation of history, and disregarded the role of slavery and racism in shaping the nation's history. The commission was terminated by President Joe Biden on January 20, 2021, his first day in office. 
Key points about the 1776 Project:
  • Establishment:
    Created by President Trump in September 2020 to promote "patriotic education". 
  • Goal:
    To restore what the commission viewed as an accurate and unifying understanding of American history, emphasizing the principles of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. 
  • 1776 Report:
    The commission's main product, released in January 2021, which sparked significant controversy and criticism. 

Critical Note: Topeka’s fiscal constraints and established governance structure suggest that LKM membership may not deliver proportional financial benefits. The city’s direct access to state legislators and existing resources could render LKM’s offerings redundant, while the costs of dues and participation exacerbate budget pressures. If you’d like a deeper analysis of Topeka’s LKM membership status, specific dues estimates, or alternative strategies, please let me know

Below are three reasons why joining the League of Kansas Municipalities (LKM) might not be financially beneficial for Topeka, Kansas, focusing on the financial impact and drawing on relevant context about the city's circumstances and the LKM’s structure. These reasons build on Topeka’s specific fiscal challenges, such as its $15 million budget deficit and infrastructure priorities, while addressing the costs and benefits of LKM membership.
  1. Membership Dues and Event Costs Strain Topeka’s Budget: Topeka, with a population of approximately 126,000, faces significant annual LKM dues, calculated based on population and assessed property valuation per K.S.A. 12-1610c. For a city of Topeka’s size, these dues could range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars annually, plus additional expenses for attending events like the LKM Annual Conference in Overland Park (e.g., registration, travel, and lodging for multiple officials). Given Topeka’s $15 million budget deficit and reliance on a proposed mill levy increase, these costs may be difficult to justify, especially since Topeka’s established city government already has access to in-house expertise and direct state lobbying channels as the capital city.
  2. Limited Financial Return on LKM Services: The LKM offers resources like grant writing workshops, municipal finance training, and legal consultations, but these may provide minimal financial return for Topeka. For example, while the LKM’s grant writing workshop with K-State Research and Extension has helped secure $41.8 million in grants for some Kansas communities, Topeka’s dedicated staff already pursues federal and state grants (e.g., $7.87 million from the Federal Funds Exchange program for transportation projects). Similarly, LKM’s training on municipal finance or the Kansas Open Meetings Act may duplicate Topeka’s existing capabilities, offering little new value to offset membership costs when the city is prioritizing critical infrastructure like road repairs.
  3. Potential Exposure to Costly Policy Advocacy: The LKM’s legislative advocacy, guided by its Statement of Municipal Policy, may push initiatives that increase financial burdens on Topeka. For instance, LKM’s opposition to changes in municipal bond tax exemptions could affect Topeka’s ability to fund projects like road improvements or a new municipal complex, as seen in nearby Prairie Village’s concerns about rising borrowing costs. If Topeka’s priorities, such as redirecting funds from economic development to infrastructure, conflict with LKM’s broader agenda, the city may face indirect costs from policies that don’t align with its fiscal recovery goals, effectively reducing the financial benefit of membership.

Critical Note: Topeka’s fiscal constraints and established governance structure suggest that LKM membership may not deliver proportional financial benefits. The city’s direct access to state legislators and existing resources could render LKM’s offerings redundant, while the costs of dues and participation exacerbate budget pressures. If you’d like a deeper analysis of Topeka’s LKM membership status, specific dues estimates, or alternative strategies, please let me know