Topeka's economy is heavily anchored in government and services, which account for over 50% of the metropolitan economy. State, county, and city government employment constitutes nearly a quarter of the workforce, while the service industry employs over 30%. Wholesale and retail trade engage about 15% of workers, with modest growth in construction and manufacturing driven by demand for housing and aircraft production. Major industries include food processing, printing, publishing, and manufacturing, with notable employers like Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Payless Shoe Source, and Hallmark Cards. The city benefits from a countywide sales tax, allocating $5 million annually for business development and job creation and $9 million for infrastructure like roads and bridges.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) However, Topeka faces challenges, including a recent population decline, which can strain economic growth. Empty commercial buildings and visible infrastructure issues, like construction barriers, may deter new businesses and residents. Crime rates, though improved since the 1990s, remain a concern, with an 18% drop in overall crime in the first half of 2008 compared to 2007, and a 6.4% reduction from 2007 to 2008. Homelessness and aging infrastructure also pose hurdles to presenting Topeka as a thriving city.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) Recent initiatives show progress. The Topeka City Council approved a $340.1 million budget in 2022, lowering the property tax mill levy while increasing revenue due to rising property valuations. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2025-2034, unanimously approved in 2024, outlines significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and downtown revitalization, funded through bonds, federal funds, and other sources. Projects like the Kansas River Corridor redevelopment, with apartment and condominium development, aim to boost downtown appeal. Additionally, Topeka participates in the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities initiative to enhance data-driven governance, improving efficiency and public trust.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/)[](https://www.topeka.org/what-works-cities/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/) ### Biggest Action for Improvement **Prioritize Economic Development through Business Attraction and Workforce Development** The most impactful action the mayor and city council can take is to aggressively pursue economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting workforce development to reverse population decline and stimulate growth. Topeka City Council candidates in 2023 emphasized that attracting big businesses and creating jobs are critical to population growth, which in turn fuels economic vitality. The city already offers incentives like tax credits, exemptions, utility discounts, and loan assistance through the Topeka-Shawnee County Development Corporation and Kansas Venture Capital, Inc. Strengthening these efforts, particularly by leveraging the $5 million annual sales tax allocation for job creation, could draw high-wage industries.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) **Specific Actions:** 1. **Enhance Business Incentives**: Expand tax-increment financing (TIF) districts, like the proposed South Topeka Redevelopment District, to encourage development in blighted areas such as the former White Lakes Mall site. Streamline permitting processes and increase visibility of Topeka’s One-Stop Business Development Office to attract companies.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/)[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 2. **Workforce Training Programs**: Partner with institutions like Washburn University and the Kansas Industrial Training program to offer tailored job training, ensuring a skilled workforce for incoming businesses. Programs like the High Performance Incentive Program, which provides tax exemptions and training credits for high-wage employers, should be promoted.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 3. **Market Topeka’s Appeal**: Address the “guest eyes” perspective by reducing visible signs of decay (e.g., empty buildings, construction barriers) and promoting Topeka’s affordability, safety improvements, and quality of life. Collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to market the city as a hub for innovation, leveraging past efforts like the 2010 “Google, Kansas” campaign.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) 4. **Address Homelessness and Infrastructure**: Complement business attraction with visible improvements in public safety, housing, and infrastructure. The 2023 Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative highlighted growth, housing, and community appearance as priorities. Reducing homelessness through the April 2023 summit and maintaining infrastructure via the CIP will make Topeka more attractive to businesses and residents.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/03/29/topeka-elected-officials-discuss-priorities-to-improve-this-community/70052466007/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/) **Why This Matters**: Attracting businesses creates jobs, increases tax revenue, and draws residents, countering population decline. Workforce development ensures local residents benefit from new opportunities, fostering economic inclusion. By focusing on these areas, Mayor Mike Padilla and the city council can build on existing strengths (e.g., government stability, sales tax revenue) while addressing perceptions of stagnation, making Topeka a more competitive and vibrant city.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) This approach aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts, such as the CIP and data-driven governance, but requires a bold, coordinated push to market Topeka and secure transformative investments.
### State of the Topeka Economy Topeka's economy is heavily anchored in government and services, which account for over 50% of the metropolitan economy. State, county, and city government employment constitutes nearly a quarter of the workforce, while the service industry employs over 30%. Wholesale and retail trade engage about 15% of workers, with modest growth in construction and manufacturing driven by demand for housing and aircraft production. Major industries include food processing, printing, publishing, and manufacturing, with notable employers like Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Payless Shoe Source, and Hallmark Cards. The city benefits from a countywide sales tax, allocating $5 million annually for business development and job creation and $9 million for infrastructure like roads and bridges.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) However, Topeka faces challenges, including a recent population decline, which can strain economic growth. Empty commercial buildings and visible infrastructure issues, like construction barriers, may deter new businesses and residents. Crime rates, though improved since the 1990s, remain a concern, with an 18% drop in overall crime in the first half of 2008 compared to 2007, and a 6.4% reduction from 2007 to 2008. Homelessness and aging infrastructure also pose hurdles to presenting Topeka as a thriving city.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) Recent initiatives show progress. The Topeka City Council approved a $340.1 million budget in 2022, lowering the property tax mill levy while increasing revenue due to rising property valuations. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2025-2034, unanimously approved in 2024, outlines significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and downtown revitalization, funded through bonds, federal funds, and other sources. Projects like the Kansas River Corridor redevelopment, with apartment and condominium development, aim to boost downtown appeal. Additionally, Topeka participates in the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities initiative to enhance data-driven governance, improving efficiency and public trust.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/)[](https://www.topeka.org/what-works-cities/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/) ### Biggest Action for Improvement **Prioritize Economic Development through Business Attraction and Workforce Development** The most impactful action the mayor and city council can take is to aggressively pursue economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting workforce development to reverse population decline and stimulate growth. Topeka City Council candidates in 2023 emphasized that attracting big businesses and creating jobs are critical to population growth, which in turn fuels economic vitality. The city already offers incentives like tax credits, exemptions, utility discounts, and loan assistance through the Topeka-Shawnee County Development Corporation and Kansas Venture Capital, Inc. Strengthening these efforts, particularly by leveraging the $5 million annual sales tax allocation for job creation, could draw high-wage industries.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) **Specific Actions:** 1. **Enhance Business Incentives**: Expand tax-increment financing (TIF) districts, like the proposed South Topeka Redevelopment District, to encourage development in blighted areas such as the former White Lakes Mall site. Streamline permitting processes and increase visibility of Topeka’s One-Stop Business Development Office to attract companies.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/)[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 2. **Workforce Training Programs**: Partner with institutions like Washburn University and the Kansas Industrial Training program to offer tailored job training, ensuring a skilled workforce for incoming businesses. Programs like the High Performance Incentive Program, which provides tax exemptions and training credits for high-wage employers, should be promoted.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 3. **Market Topeka’s Appeal**: Address the “guest eyes” perspective by reducing visible signs of decay (e.g., empty buildings, construction barriers) and promoting Topeka’s affordability, safety improvements, and quality of life. Collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to market the city as a hub for innovation, leveraging past efforts like the 2010 “Google, Kansas” campaign.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) 4. **Address Homelessness and Infrastructure**: Complement business attraction with visible improvements in public safety, housing, and infrastructure. The 2023 Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative highlighted growth, housing, and community appearance as priorities. Reducing homelessness through the April 2023 summit and maintaining infrastructure via the CIP will make Topeka more attractive to businesses and residents.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/03/29/topeka-elected-officials-discuss-priorities-to-improve-this-community/70052466007/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/) **Why This Matters**: Attracting businesses creates jobs, increases tax revenue, and draws residents, countering population decline. Workforce development ensures local residents benefit from new opportunities, fostering economic inclusion. By focusing on these areas, Mayor Mike Padilla and the city council can build on existing strengths (e.g., government stability, sales tax revenue) while addressing perceptions of stagnation, making Topeka a more competitive and vibrant city.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) This approach aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts, such as the CIP and data-driven governance, but requires a bold, coordinated push to market Topeka and secure transformative investments.
### State of the Topeka Economy Topeka's economy is heavily anchored in government and services, which account for over 50% of the metropolitan economy. State, county, and city government employment constitutes nearly a quarter of the workforce, while the service industry employs over 30%. Wholesale and retail trade engage about 15% of workers, with modest growth in construction and manufacturing driven by demand for housing and aircraft production. Major industries include food processing, printing, publishing, and manufacturing, with notable employers like Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Payless Shoe Source, and Hallmark Cards. The city benefits from a countywide sales tax, allocating $5 million annually for business development and job creation and $9 million for infrastructure like roads and bridges.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) However, Topeka faces challenges, including a recent population decline, which can strain economic growth. Empty commercial buildings and visible infrastructure issues, like construction barriers, may deter new businesses and residents. Crime rates, though improved since the 1990s, remain a concern, with an 18% drop in overall crime in the first half of 2008 compared to 2007, and a 6.4% reduction from 2007 to 2008. Homelessness and aging infrastructure also pose hurdles to presenting Topeka as a thriving city.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) Recent initiatives show progress. The Topeka City Council approved a $340.1 million budget in 2022, lowering the property tax mill levy while increasing revenue due to rising property valuations. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2025-2034, unanimously approved in 2024, outlines significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and downtown revitalization, funded through bonds, federal funds, and other sources. Projects like the Kansas River Corridor redevelopment, with apartment and condominium development, aim to boost downtown appeal. Additionally, Topeka participates in the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities initiative to enhance data-driven governance, improving efficiency and public trust.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/)[](https://www.topeka.org/what-works-cities/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/) ### Biggest Action for Improvement **Prioritize Economic Development through Business Attraction and Workforce Development** The most impactful action the mayor and city council can take is to aggressively pursue economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting workforce development to reverse population decline and stimulate growth. Topeka City Council candidates in 2023 emphasized that attracting big businesses and creating jobs are critical to population growth, which in turn fuels economic vitality. The city already offers incentives like tax credits, exemptions, utility discounts, and loan assistance through the Topeka-Shawnee County Development Corporation and Kansas Venture Capital, Inc. Strengthening these efforts, particularly by leveraging the $5 million annual sales tax allocation for job creation, could draw high-wage industries.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) **Specific Actions:** 1. **Enhance Business Incentives**: Expand tax-increment financing (TIF) districts, like the proposed South Topeka Redevelopment District, to encourage development in blighted areas such as the former White Lakes Mall site. Streamline permitting processes and increase visibility of Topeka’s One-Stop Business Development Office to attract companies.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/)[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 2. **Workforce Training Programs**: Partner with institutions like Washburn University and the Kansas Industrial Training program to offer tailored job training, ensuring a skilled workforce for incoming businesses. Programs like the High Performance Incentive Program, which provides tax exemptions and training credits for high-wage employers, should be promoted.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 3. **Market Topeka’s Appeal**: Address the “guest eyes” perspective by reducing visible signs of decay (e.g., empty buildings, construction barriers) and promoting Topeka’s affordability, safety improvements, and quality of life. Collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to market the city as a hub for innovation, leveraging past efforts like the 2010 “Google, Kansas” campaign.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) 4. **Address Homelessness and Infrastructure**: Complement business attraction with visible improvements in public safety, housing, and infrastructure. The 2023 Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative highlighted growth, housing, and community appearance as priorities. Reducing homelessness through the April 2023 summit and maintaining infrastructure via the CIP will make Topeka more attractive to businesses and residents.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/03/29/topeka-elected-officials-discuss-priorities-to-improve-this-community/70052466007/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/) **Why This Matters**: Attracting businesses creates jobs, increases tax revenue, and draws residents, countering population decline. Workforce development ensures local residents benefit from new opportunities, fostering economic inclusion. By focusing on these areas, Mayor Mike Padilla and the city council can build on existing strengths (e.g., government stability, sales tax revenue) while addressing perceptions of stagnation, making Topeka a more competitive and vibrant city.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) This approach aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts, such as the CIP and data-driven governance, but requires a bold, coordinated push to market Topeka and secure transformative investments.
Topeka's economy is heavily anchored in government and services, which account for over 50% of the metropolitan economy. State, county, and city government employment constitutes nearly a quarter of the workforce, while the service industry employs over 30%. Wholesale and retail trade engage about 15% of workers, with modest growth in construction and manufacturing driven by demand for housing and aircraft production. Major industries include food processing, printing, publishing, and manufacturing, with notable employers like Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Payless Shoe Source, and Hallmark Cards. The city benefits from a countywide sales tax, allocating $5 million annually for business development and job creation and $9 million for infrastructure like roads and bridges.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) However, Topeka faces challenges, including a recent population decline, which can strain economic growth. Empty commercial buildings and visible infrastructure issues, like construction barriers, may deter new businesses and residents. Crime rates, though improved since the 1990s, remain a concern, with an 18% drop in overall crime in the first half of 2008 compared to 2007, and a 6.4% reduction from 2007 to 2008. Homelessness and aging infrastructure also pose hurdles to presenting Topeka as a thriving city.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) Recent initiatives show progress. The Topeka City Council approved a $340.1 million budget in 2022, lowering the property tax mill levy while increasing revenue due to rising property valuations. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2025-2034, unanimously approved in 2024, outlines significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and downtown revitalization, funded through bonds, federal funds, and other sources. Projects like the Kansas River Corridor redevelopment, with apartment and condominium development, aim to boost downtown appeal. Additionally, Topeka participates in the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities initiative to enhance data-driven governance, improving efficiency and public trust.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/)[](https://www.topeka.org/what-works-cities/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/) ### Biggest Action for Improvement **Prioritize Economic Development through Business Attraction and Workforce Development** The most impactful action the mayor and city council can take is to aggressively pursue economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting workforce development to reverse population decline and stimulate growth. Topeka City Council candidates in 2023 emphasized that attracting big businesses and creating jobs are critical to population growth, which in turn fuels economic vitality. The city already offers incentives like tax credits, exemptions, utility discounts, and loan assistance through the Topeka-Shawnee County Development Corporation and Kansas Venture Capital, Inc. Strengthening these efforts, particularly by leveraging the $5 million annual sales tax allocation for job creation, could draw high-wage industries.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) **Specific Actions:** 1. **Enhance Business Incentives**: Expand tax-increment financing (TIF) districts, like the proposed South Topeka Redevelopment District, to encourage development in blighted areas such as the former White Lakes Mall site. Streamline permitting processes and increase visibility of Topeka’s One-Stop Business Development Office to attract companies.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/)[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 2. **Workforce Training Programs**: Partner with institutions like Washburn University and the Kansas Industrial Training program to offer tailored job training, ensuring a skilled workforce for incoming businesses. Programs like the High Performance Incentive Program, which provides tax exemptions and training credits for high-wage employers, should be promoted.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 3. **Market Topeka’s Appeal**: Address the “guest eyes” perspective by reducing visible signs of decay (e.g., empty buildings, construction barriers) and promoting Topeka’s affordability, safety improvements, and quality of life. Collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to market the city as a hub for innovation, leveraging past efforts like the 2010 “Google, Kansas” campaign.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) 4. **Address Homelessness and Infrastructure**: Complement business attraction with visible improvements in public safety, housing, and infrastructure. The 2023 Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative highlighted growth, housing, and community appearance as priorities. Reducing homelessness through the April 2023 summit and maintaining infrastructure via the CIP will make Topeka more attractive to businesses and residents.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/03/29/topeka-elected-officials-discuss-priorities-to-improve-this-community/70052466007/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/) **Why This Matters**: Attracting businesses creates jobs, increases tax revenue, and draws residents, countering population decline. Workforce development ensures local residents benefit from new opportunities, fostering economic inclusion. By focusing on these areas, Mayor Mike Padilla and the city council can build on existing strengths (e.g., government stability, sales tax revenue) while addressing perceptions of stagnation, making Topeka a more competitive and vibrant city.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) This approach aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts, such as the CIP and data-driven governance, but requires a bold, coordinated push to market Topeka and secure transformative investments.### State of the Topeka Economy### State of the Topeka Economy Topeka's economy is heavily anchored in government and services, which account for over 50% of the metropolitan economy. State, county, and city government employment constitutes nearly a quarter of the workforce, while the service industry employs over 30%. Wholesale and retail trade engage about 15% of workers, with modest growth in construction and manufacturing driven by demand for housing and aircraft production. Major industries include food processing, printing, publishing, and manufacturing, with notable employers like Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Payless Shoe Source, and Hallmark Cards. The city benefits from a countywide sales tax, allocating $5 million annually for business development and job creation and $9 million for infrastructure like roads and bridges.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) However, Topeka faces challenges, including a recent population decline, which can strain economic growth. Empty commercial buildings and visible infrastructure issues, like construction barriers, may deter new businesses and residents. Crime rates, though improved since the 1990s, remain a concern, with an 18% drop in overall crime in the first half of 2008 compared to 2007, and a 6.4% reduction from 2007 to 2008. Homelessness and aging infrastructure also pose hurdles to presenting Topeka as a thriving city.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) Recent initiatives show progress. The Topeka City Council approved a $340.1 million budget in 2022, lowering the property tax mill levy while increasing revenue due to rising property valuations. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2025-2034, unanimously approved in 2024, outlines significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and downtown revitalization, funded through bonds, federal funds, and other sources. Projects like the Kansas River Corridor redevelopment, with apartment and condominium development, aim to boost downtown appeal. Additionally, Topeka participates in the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities initiative to enhance data-driven governance, improving efficiency and public trust.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/)[](https://www.topeka.org/what-works-cities/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/) ### Biggest Action for Improvement **Prioritize Economic Development through Business Attraction and Workforce Development** The most impactful action the mayor and city council can take is to aggressively pursue economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting workforce development to reverse population decline and stimulate growth. Topeka City Council candidates in 2023 emphasized that attracting big businesses and creating jobs are critical to population growth, which in turn fuels economic vitality. The city already offers incentives like tax credits, exemptions, utility discounts, and loan assistance through the Topeka-Shawnee County Development Corporation and Kansas Venture Capital, Inc. Strengthening these efforts, particularly by leveraging the $5 million annual sales tax allocation for job creation, could draw high-wage industries.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) **Specific Actions:** 1. **Enhance Business Incentives**: Expand tax-increment financing (TIF) districts, like the proposed South Topeka Redevelopment District, to encourage development in blighted areas such as the former White Lakes Mall site. Streamline permitting processes and increase visibility of Topeka’s One-Stop Business Development Office to attract companies.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/)[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 2. **Workforce Training Programs**: Partner with institutions like Washburn University and the Kansas Industrial Training program to offer tailored job training, ensuring a skilled workforce for incoming businesses. Programs like the High Performance Incentive Program, which provides tax exemptions and training credits for high-wage employers, should be promoted.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 3. **Market Topeka’s Appeal**: Address the “guest eyes” perspective by reducing visible signs of decay (e.g., empty buildings, construction barriers) and promoting Topeka’s affordability, safety improvements, and quality of life. Collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to market the city as a hub for innovation, leveraging past efforts like the 2010 “Google, Kansas” campaign.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) 4. **Address Homelessness and Infrastructure**: Complement business attraction with visible improvements in public safety, housing, and infrastructure. The 2023 Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative highlighted growth, housing, and community appearance as priorities. Reducing homelessness through the April 2023 summit and maintaining infrastructure via the CIP will make Topeka more attractive to businesses and residents.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/03/29/topeka-elected-officials-discuss-priorities-to-improve-this-community/70052466007/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/) **Why This Matters**: Attracting businesses creates jobs, increases tax revenue, and draws residents, countering population decline. Workforce development ensures local residents benefit from new opportunities, fostering economic inclusion. By focusing on these areas, Mayor Mike Padilla and the city council can build on existing strengths (e.g., government stability, sales tax revenue) while addressing perceptions of stagnation, making Topeka a more competitive and vibrant city.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) This approach aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts, such as the CIP and data-driven governance, but requires a bold, coordinated push to market Topeka and secure transformative investments. Topeka's economy is heavily anchored in government and services, which account for over 50% of the metropolitan economy. State, county, and city government employment constitutes nearly a quarter of the workforce, while the service industry employs over 30%. Wholesale and retail trade engage about 15% of workers, with modest growth in construction and manufacturing driven by demand for housing and aircraft production. Major industries include food processing, printing, publishing, and manufacturing, with notable employers like Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Frito-Lay, Goodyear, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Payless Shoe Source, and Hallmark Cards. The city benefits from a countywide sales tax, allocating $5 million annually for business development and job creation and $9 million for infrastructure like roads and bridges.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) However, Topeka faces challenges, including a recent population decline, which can strain economic growth. Empty commercial buildings and visible infrastructure issues, like construction barriers, may deter new businesses and residents. Crime rates, though improved since the 1990s, remain a concern, with an 18% drop in overall crime in the first half of 2008 compared to 2007, and a 6.4% reduction from 2007 to 2008. Homelessness and aging infrastructure also pose hurdles to presenting Topeka as a thriving city.[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) Recent initiatives show progress. The Topeka City Council approved a $340.1 million budget in 2022, lowering the property tax mill levy while increasing revenue due to rising property valuations. The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2025-2034, unanimously approved in 2024, outlines significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and downtown revitalization, funded through bonds, federal funds, and other sources. Projects like the Kansas River Corridor redevelopment, with apartment and condominium development, aim to boost downtown appeal. Additionally, Topeka participates in the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ What Works Cities initiative to enhance data-driven governance, improving efficiency and public trust.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/)[](https://www.topeka.org/what-works-cities/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/) ### Biggest Action for Improvement **Prioritize Economic Development through Business Attraction and Workforce Development** The most impactful action the mayor and city council can take is to aggressively pursue economic development by attracting new businesses and supporting workforce development to reverse population decline and stimulate growth. Topeka City Council candidates in 2023 emphasized that attracting big businesses and creating jobs are critical to population growth, which in turn fuels economic vitality. The city already offers incentives like tax credits, exemptions, utility discounts, and loan assistance through the Topeka-Shawnee County Development Corporation and Kansas Venture Capital, Inc. Strengthening these efforts, particularly by leveraging the $5 million annual sales tax allocation for job creation, could draw high-wage industries.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) **Specific Actions:** 1. **Enhance Business Incentives**: Expand tax-increment financing (TIF) districts, like the proposed South Topeka Redevelopment District, to encourage development in blighted areas such as the former White Lakes Mall site. Streamline permitting processes and increase visibility of Topeka’s One-Stop Business Development Office to attract companies.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2022/09/14/mayor-city-council-unanimously-adopt-2023-topeka-city-budget/10360814002/)[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 2. **Workforce Training Programs**: Partner with institutions like Washburn University and the Kansas Industrial Training program to offer tailored job training, ensuring a skilled workforce for incoming businesses. Programs like the High Performance Incentive Program, which provides tax exemptions and training credits for high-wage employers, should be promoted.[](https://www.city-data.com/us-cities/The-Midwest/Topeka-Economy.html) 3. **Market Topeka’s Appeal**: Address the “guest eyes” perspective by reducing visible signs of decay (e.g., empty buildings, construction barriers) and promoting Topeka’s affordability, safety improvements, and quality of life. Collaborate with the Greater Topeka Partnership to market the city as a hub for innovation, leveraging past efforts like the 2010 “Google, Kansas” campaign.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/)[](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topeka%2C_Kansas) 4. **Address Homelessness and Infrastructure**: Complement business attraction with visible improvements in public safety, housing, and infrastructure. The 2023 Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative highlighted growth, housing, and community appearance as priorities. Reducing homelessness through the April 2023 summit and maintaining infrastructure via the CIP will make Topeka more attractive to businesses and residents.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/03/29/topeka-elected-officials-discuss-priorities-to-improve-this-community/70052466007/)[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/04/17/here-are-topekas-biggest-changes-to-its-capital-improvement-projects/73344579007/) **Why This Matters**: Attracting businesses creates jobs, increases tax revenue, and draws residents, countering population decline. Workforce development ensures local residents benefit from new opportunities, fostering economic inclusion. By focusing on these areas, Mayor Mike Padilla and the city council can build on existing strengths (e.g., government stability, sales tax revenue) while addressing perceptions of stagnation, making Topeka a more competitive and vibrant city.[](https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/23/candidates-suggest-ideas-to-reverse-topekas-recent-drop-in-population/71217070007/) This approach aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts, such as the CIP and data-driven governance, but requires a bold, coordinated push to market Topeka and secure transformative investments.