City Council - Regular Meeting

Good morning, Wichita and good morning to all of you. Thank you for joining us for this week's council meeting. We'll call this meeting to order. To provide our invocation is Pastor Todd Carter of Pathway Church. Following the invocation, we will have our Pledge of Allegiance and we ask that you please stand for both.

Oh, excuse me. Would you pray with me this morning? Oh, Father in heaven, we just thank you so much again today for the place the people of Wichita got. Just what a great place, God, that you've given us to live, to be able to work, to be able to raise our families. God, I pray, especially today, that you just would give grace, you'd give peace, you'd give wisdom, discernment, God, to our mayor, to our city commissioners. God, I pray that you'd just give, you'd lighten their load. Lord, I just know what it's like to carry a heavy load. And God, I just pray you'd just lighten their load today. Thank you that we can come to you when we're weary and burdened, that you give us rest. And God, I just pray for the River Fest coming up, God. I just pray and just thank you so much that you are the creator of good. You're the creator of a good time. And Lord, I just pray just that the people of our city just would have a great time here soon, just coming together just to be able to celebrate just together and just to celebrate our city. And God, I just pray in general, Lord, just for safety there and safety in general for our city, God. And we just thank you, Lord, for our police department, God, for our first responders. And, Lord, they're just model of sacrificial service. And, Lord, I just pray that you just would watch over our city. You'd bring peace. Lord, you'd bring prosperity. Lord, thank you so much that you watch out over our going out and our coming in. And we pray all these things right now in Jesus' name. Amen.

flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Thank you, Pastor Carter. Madam Clerk, please call the first item.

Approve the minutes of regular meeting May 12, 2026.

Council members, any items to be edited? I see none. I move to approve the minutes for the regular meeting for May 12th, 2026.

Second.

Motion second. Discussion? See none. Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

Proclamations National Tennis Month.

May I please ask the Kansas District Tennis Association to come forward at this time? The proclamation reads, the city of Wichita, Kansas, founded in 1870, whereas Wichita is home to the largest base of USTA membership in the state of Kansas, and continues to lead the state in overall tennis participation through strong engagement in adult, junior, and recreational league tennis programs. Whereas Wichita's tennis community provides opportunities for players of all ages and abilities through junior development programs, adult leagues, recreational play, and adaptive tennis initiatives, and is strengthened by the outstanding partnerships. Whereas Wichita proudly hosts two of the leading national junior tennis and learning chapters in the state of Kansas and is home to the Wichita Tennis Open, the only professional tennis circuit event held in the state, bringing high level professional tennis and national attention to the Wichita community. Whereas the Wichita tennis community will celebrate National Tennis Month by hosting more than 30 events throughout the city, providing opportunities for residents of all ages to experience the health, social, and community benefits of the sport. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Wichita City Council does hereby proclaim May 2026 as National Tennis Month.

Hi. All across the nation, the month of May is recognized as National Tennis Month. And we wanted to make sure Wichita was included in that group. And here we have some of our players that won a national, the USTA National Championship just recently. And I wanted to make sure they're recognized.

We're just excited to be recognized, you know, our national team, and tennis is growing in Wichita, and we can't wait to keep it going.

Yep.

Thank you.

May I please have the Bike Walk Wichita team come forward and also Council Member Tuttle.

Good morning. From tennis to bikes, May has something for everyone. It is my privilege and honor to be able to read this proclamation today. We were discussing quickly before the meeting, I think I've been celebrating bike month in the city of Wichita with my community partners probably since 2006 or seven. So we've been trying to promote healthy lifestyles and including biking and walking for a long time in Wichita. So with that, it's my honor to read the proclamation of the City of Wichita, Kansas, founded in 1870. Whereas, Bike Walk Wichita is partnering with the city and community organizations to celebrate National Bike Month and encourage bicycling throughout our community. And, whereas, for more than a century, the bicycle has been an integral part of American life and remains a practical, eco-friendly mode of transportation as well as an excellent way to enjoy recreation and exercise. And whereas educating cyclists and motorists about the safe and proper use of bicycles is vital to ensuring the safety and comfort for all road users and decreasing bicycle-related injuries and deaths. And whereas communities that promote bicycling enjoy better public health well-being, higher quality of life, stronger community ties, and less traffic congestion and pollution. Therefore, now let it be resolved that the City of Wichita does hereby proclaim Bike Month 2026 and Bike Month ICT.

Good morning, Mayor, council members, and members of the community. My name is Holly Terrell, and I serve as the Executive Director of Bike Walk Wichita. On behalf of our organization, our community partners, and the many residents who bike, walk, roll, and support safer streets throughout our city, thank you for recognizing May as Bike Month ICT. Bike Month is more than a celebration of bicycles. It is a reminder that transportation is deeply connected to quality of life, public health, economic opportunity, community connection, and personal freedom. Every day in Wichita, people ride bicycles for many different reasons. Some ride for recreation and joy, some ride to school to access healthcare, or because a bicycle is their primary form of transportation. For many families, biking and walking are not simply hobbies. They are essential ways of moving through life safely, affordably, and independently. Through Bike Month ICT, we celebrate the progress Wichita has made toward becoming a more connected and accessible community, while also recognizing the work still ahead of us. We are grateful for the partnerships between community organizations, city staff, local businesses, advocates, and residents who continue working towards safer streets and more active transportation choices for everyone. At Bike Walk Wichita, we believe that a city is designed for people walking and biking is ultimately a city that is safer, healthier, and more welcoming for everyone, including drivers. When we create safer crossings, calmer streets, connected trails, and protected infrastructure, we improve our community for people of all ages and all abilities. Throughout the month, Bike Month ICT includes weekly rides, educational opportunities, advocacy events, community gatherings, and family-friendly activities designed to help people experience Wichita in new ways and build community through active transportation. We encourage everyone to explore the full calendar of events and find ways to participate at bikemonthict.org. Whether it's attending an event, trying a new route, riding with a friend, supporting a local business by bike, or simply slowing down and giving more attention to the people around us on the streets, every action helps build a culture of awareness, respect, and safety. Thank you again to the city of Wichita for this proclamation and for supporting our efforts to help move people through our city safely, freely, and joyfully. And a special thank you to council member Becky Tuttle for being a driving force behind bringing Bike Month to our community over 10 years ago. Happy Bike Month, Wichita.

May I please ask Mental Health America of South Central Kansas to come forward at this time. The proclamation reads, the city of Wichita, Kansas, founded in 1870, whereas mental health is fundamental to a healthy mind, a healthy body, and the dignity of every person. And the well-being of our community depends on supporting the whole person. Whereas Mental Health Awareness Month, founded by Mental Health America in 1949, is recognized each May to encourage open conversation, reduce stigma, and promote access to compassionate support and treatment services. Whereas through the work of Mental Health America of South Central Kansas and community partners, individuals and families in Wichita are met with connection, prevention, treatment, recovery, support and pathways toward hope and healing. Whereas the city of Wichita affirms that mental health should be prioritized alongside physical health, recognizing that two go hand in hand in helping individuals, families, and neighborhoods thrive. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Wichita City Council does hereby proclaim May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month.

Okay, good morning. Thank you, Mayor. Thank you, City Council and community leaders. My name is Kara Johnson, and I have the honor and privilege of serving as the Director of Philanthropy and Engagement for Mental Health America of South Central Kansas. As someone born and raised in Wichita, this proclamation is personal to me. I've always known mental health mattered, but I didn't realize the depth of the support system that has quietly existed in our community for almost 70 years. I didn't realize one of MHA's residential homes was a place I walked past every day on my way to Enterprise Elementary and later on South High. While people inside were receiving 24-7 behavioral health support during some of life's hardest moments. That realization changed the way I think about access, because access and awareness go hand in hand. If people don't know the door is unlocked, they can't walk through it. At MHA, we provide more than 50 programs and services supporting all ages and many stages of life, including prevention, outpatient, housing and residential, crisis support, and so much more. Thank you to the city of Wichita for recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month and for helping bring more awareness and conversation around mental health to our community. Thank you.

may I please ask Vice Mayor Glasscock and Oatville Community Church to come forward at this time.

a proclamation of the city of Wichita founded in 1870. Whereas Oatville Community Church has faithfully served the Oatville area and the greater Wichita community for 70 years, providing a place of worship, fellowship, and spiritual guidance since its founding. And whereas for seven decades, the church has been a cornerstone of the community, bringing people together in faith, strengthening families, and offering support, encouragement, and compassion to neighbors in times of both joy and need, The congregation of Oakville C., and whereas, the 70th anniversary of Oakville Community Church represents a meaningful milestone that honors the vision of its founders and the dedication of generations of pastors, leaders, and members who have faithfully sustained its mission. And whereas, the city of Wichita recognizes the important role that faith communities such as Oakville Community Church play in strengthening the social, spiritual, and civic life of our city. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Wichita City Council does hereby proclaim April 25th, 2026 as Oakville Community Church 70 years of service to the community day.

Madam Mayor and City Council, I appreciate your proclamation and the declaration for 70 years of service to the city of Wichita and the importance of the community church and neighborhoods around this city and the important role that they play, not just in the spiritual needs, but also in the physical needs, the educational needs, and the support that is there for our community throughout the area. And we continue that role today in helping not just those spiritual needs, but we're helping those with physical needs through trying to provide clothing, food, and other assistance that's necessary for people that are truly in need within our community. And we appreciate your proclamation and all that you have done for us today. Thank you.

I'm going to use my point of privilege to allow a fifth proclamation. And this one is special because the city of Wichita has 16 departments. And one of those departments that employs the most employees for the city is Wichita Public Works and Utilities. And this month happens to be National Public Works Week. So, we would like to invite Public Works Director Gary Jansen to come forward at this time, and any of the supporters of Public Works to join me with this proclamation. The city of Wichita, Kansas, founded in 1870, whereas public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities, and services that are vital to sustainable and resilient communities and to the public health, high quality of life, and well-being of the people of Wichita, Kansas. Whereas those infrastructure facilities and services could be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals who are engineers, managers, and employees from state and local governments and the private sector who are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation's transportation, water supply, water treatment, and solid waste treatment, public buildings, and other structures and facilities essential for our citizens. Whereas it is in the public interest for citizens, civic leaders, and children of Wichita to gain knowledge of and to maintain a progressive interest in the importance of public works and public works programs. Whereas this year, 2026, marks the 66th annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association. Now therefore be it resolved that the Wichita City Council does hereby proclaim May 19th, 2026 as National Public Works Week.

Thank you, Mayor and Council Members. We actually tried to be on this agenda this morning and got in too late. So thank you. I really appreciate that. I'll just be quick. We have nearly 800 amazing employees that do so many things, especially behind the scenes every single day. It's a privilege to watch what they do, the great things that they do. I'm always amazed, you know, even last night as the storms were what was predicted and what was coming in. We had a lot of people that were on standby, on high alert, keeping an eye on our facilities and everything that was going on in the community. We even had a drainage issue to deal with coming into the parking garage this morning as a result of the storm. So we've got folks, like I said, keeping an eye on what happens in the community every single day, 24-7. across all parts of the city. So it's an honor for me to be in the position. I get to watch these great things being done and work with so many great people. So thank you for your support, and thank you for the proclamation.

Thank you for the five recipients of proclamations today. We also have an award this morning. These are videos from the Wichita Chamber of Commerce. This award is the Spirit of Wichita, Wichita Festivals.

I've seen a lot of crazy things in this business, I'll tell you that.

The hairstyles, the outfits, it's always gonna be trendy, we'll say.

Every once in a while, somebody has a little too much fun down there. Somebody would report an alligator in the river.

There's definitely a lot of stories. Beautiful chaos is what I call it.

It happens every spring. It's a 10-day celebration. It happens on the river. It happens all over town. It's the annual Wichita River Festival.

Every year, I swear it's going to be my last year, but I love the people that I volunteer with. I love this festival so much. I can't quit doing it.

As a kid, I saw the Admirals on top of the wind wagon in a parade.

It was such a rough. You just get to see all of what makes Wichita rich. You get to see it all in one place.

What greater event than nine days of the community coming together?

Everything in Wichita kind of slows down. We get together, we get to celebrate. This is what makes us unique. And it's also the annual argument. The button. The badge of honor?

Wichita will always find one thing to debate.

Early Bird button, we can get it for $15. After Early Bird is done, then they're $20. But that's nine days of fun.

So you would never be able to go anywhere else and get all the things we do in Riverfest for that price.

We have over 2,000 volunteers that are ready and activated. Without the volunteers, Wichita Festivals would not be what it is.

Admiral Reagan Smith, number 36. Before the sun comes up, it's quiet, peaceful. It's kind of that peaceful adrenaline rush.

7 a.m. is the best time of day to be here.

You have a cup of coffee, donuts, and off you go for a busy day.

Everybody's in the playroom, don't you know? It's a beautiful day.

The biggest myth about Wichita Festivals is that we are a for-profit organization. We are a nonprofit, not owned by the city, and has defund rings like everyone else. The staff size of Wichita Festivals, including me, is nine people total. Wichita Festivals isn't just Riverfest.

Riverfest is the headline, but it's not the whole paper.

I wish more people knew about Ottoman art because it's a hidden gem where there's art from all over the world.

Now we're going to be trying something new this year that we hope is going to be a long-standing tradition, which is the flavor and barbecue fest.

Every community should find a way to come together and say, this is what makes us unique, and this is what makes us us. There's something to be said for consistency and tradition. I think it takes that blend of voices to make Riverfest as special and persistent as it is.

Now it's tradition, but we're not standing still.

We're expanding the mix. Culture, education, new experiences. Making it bigger than people expect.

We are a part of the fabric of this city. We will continue to evolve into what the people need and what the people love and continue to be that consistent event and experience that will live on for lifetimes to come.

Council Member Tuttle.

Thank you. I just wanted to take a point of privilege and say congratulations to Teresa Veazey. Teresa is the community service representative for District 2 and for District 5, and she has been given the Communicator of Achievement Award by the Kansas Professional Communicators. And Teresa was chosen for this award because of her exceptional achievement in communications, service to the Kansas Professional Communicators, and impact to the community. And I think I can speak for Councilmember Johnston. When I say Teresa truly is an asset to the city, she's a blessing to me, she's a blessing to our districts. She does such a fantastic job, but she also always does it with a smile. And she makes sure that our residents are receiving the best customer service possible. So congratulations to Teresa.

Councilmember Hohaisel.

Thank you, Mayor. Council Member Shepherd, Vice Mayor Glasscock, what you saw in that video was a VHS tape. They used to go in VCRs. That was streaming before streaming. I think I've seen one in a museum once before. Yeah, same here. I'm glad you guys are here to remind me of just how old I am getting.

Actually, Vortex and Council Member Glasscock's district still have some if you want to go and travel with us. I would love that. I can look at the antiques. Back in time.

Thank you, Council Members. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

public agenda. We now come to public agenda. The public agenda allows for up to five speakers to have five minutes each to address the council. Please bear in mind that this is not a period of dialogue with council or a question and answer period. This is your opportunity to address the city council with your concerns. I ask that you address your remarks to the city council as a body and not to any individual council member. No action will be taken relative to items on the public agenda other than referral to the city manager for information as necessary. Speakers will please speak into the microphone. Please state their name and address for the record. A time clock will display the speaker's remaining time to speak. Order and rules of decorum will be observed. The first speaker is Darcy Smith, Organizations Helping Unhoused Individuals.

Good morning, Mayor, City Council, community leaders, and fellow citizens. My name is Darcy Smith. I actually live in Park City, Kansas, but I'm in Wichita daily, helping the homeless on our streets of Wichita. I operate Hope on the Streets Love and Action ICT. We go out and we feed our community, and we love on them with prayer every day. Recently, you stated that all efforts need to go and be directed to the new shelter, Second Life. This week, last week actually, and yesterday, I was there with a woman that was turned away because there was only 25 beds. This is an issue. We have to make sure that there is enough space for these people. You're wanting to go into encampments and remove them. Where are they to go? Jesus states that we are to love each other and be there for each other. I stand by that. Other groups in other cities have been successful doing exactly what we do for years. In Kansas City alone, they have gotten the homeless down to a very bare minimum. And that has helped by feeding them, filling their bellies, and with medical care. I understand that some of them do have mental illness, and that does need to be addressed. But also, a lot of this is breaking generational curses of the people. Addiction comes from families, and it's passed along. So I'm asking that you ease up on some of these people that are out here trying to help them, such as grassroots companies and nonprofits. They need us. Last week when I left the city council meeting, I went downtown to open door and witnessed the signs being put up that all of their things were gonna be taken away. Bicycles that we have provided for them to even get to jobs they have. Some of these people work, but they cannot afford housing. We have to have help, and we are willing to help. But when I am told and others that we can't even feed them on the streets, that is an issue. They may get a meal somewhere else. But we love on them. Many churches are out here every weekend feeding these people. We just want some grace. And that is what I'm asking today. Give us some grace and time.

Thank you. Thank you, Darcy. Are there any other individuals who would like to speak to the council?

My name's Doug Ballard. I live in District 6. This is a subject matter that's sensitive to, it's about fire department apparatus, fire trucks. So I've had this in my possession for a while, and there's no way to read it in five minutes. It's probably a 10, 12-minute read, and if you cut it up, it just won't mean the same. But I'll read the... I read the first part of it. I was a fireman in 68 and 69. I was a stockbroker in the early 70s, actually right here, before they built the city building. I bought construction materials for over 30 years. Those three things give me a little background. So that's why I'm addressing this. This is a letter to the International Association of Firefighters from Senator Jim Banks, a Republican from Indiana, and a Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts. And I'll just read the first sentence. I'll get you guys all copies and you can do with it whatever you so desire. The first sentence is, we write seeking information on the impacts of private equity roll-ups of fire truck manufacturers and the adverse impact of this consolidation on firefighter and public safety. The lack of competition in the industry has allowed private equity to hike fire truck prices, restrict fire truck production, and created a dangerous backlog of fire fighting equipment. And it goes on and it talks about all the consolidation and everything. And we've allowed this in almost every category. Case in point, we got a new fire truck, and I can't remember if it was the fall of 68 or the spring of 69. I can't remember where it went, but it was a Ford, and some of the drivers whined about that it wasn't Seagraves or American Lebrance. It's a truck. But anyway, they were outraged, excuse me, at the outrageous price of $90,000 for this truck. So you can see what has happened. And this is written by their staff and there's footnotes that tells where they got all their information. Anyway, it's been a pet peeve of mine. My job as a regional purchasing manager was price and delivery. The price is too high, the delivery is too long. That's my point. Then a lot of the small communities that take the pass downs from the bigger cities, they're not able to get them. It just puts a whole lot of things in motion. You've got a law department. Anyway, maybe you can do something about it. Thank you.

Thank you, Doug. There are three more spots available.

Good morning, City Council. It's nice to see you again. I'm Dr. Donna Castillo-Garcia. owner and co-founder of Grassroots Bridge Builders, who provides direct housing services to people living in long-term encampments. I'd like to speak with you today a little bit more about the pending closure of Chapin Park. As you may be aware, we've been working out there weekly, several days a week, several hours we've been putting in with the City of Wichita workers, among other nonprofit entities, and working diligently to get people housing placement. The answer to homelessness, as we all should know by now, is housing. And the way that we get that done and the way that we've developed is a community-based initiative where we are now operating on a three-phase process. So we initiate encounters and we build rapport. We start getting supporting documentations, fill out the myriad of paperwork that is required. to get a voucher and to obtain resources. This part of the process can take four to six weeks, if we're lucky enough to have low barriers and someone who engages regularly with us. After this process, we then turn it over to the city. We submit applications. This is a community-wide process, so there could be a backlog. Again, four to six weeks for the applications to be received, reviewed, and a voucher issued. Following that is the third and final process, which is where we start identifying an appropriate unit for the individual based on everything that's going on with them. We start negotiating with landlords. We start filling out applications, paying for fees, and doing the second round of paperwork that it takes to get someone housed. And finally, we try to get all of the items together so that they're moving into a home, they're not moving into a building. All of these steps in this process, like I said, can be four to six weeks if everything goes right. I bring this to your attention because I want everyone who is making decisions to be aware of the complexity of this process and how diligently people are working. And when we're making decisions in rooms where the individuals most impacted are not present, We have a responsibility and a diligence to make good decisions. Grassroots, we are doing this work every day. We are hearing a lot of conversation that we should be triaging individuals into shelter spaces. The reality of our shelter spaces right now is they cannot accommodate the over 60 individuals that we have identified who are working their housing processes. Second Light currently has 100 program beds, 50 for men, 50 for women. Those are spoken for. Those are individuals in the city center who are getting their housing. They have 24 overnight beds. That is a first come, first serve basis with maybe eight to 10 additional emergency beds that providers can send referrals to. The mission, they have 160 beds approximately for men only. We're excluding couples, women in general, and anyone who has a pet. So we're asking individuals to go into shelter that we don't have available in our current capacity. We're working on it, and it is expanding, but it's going to be 2027 before we see any kind of significant increase in our ability to house individuals. We have to approach this realistically and we're asking the city manager's office to take this under consideration that it takes months to get someone housed when we're doing it at the max capacity and the best that we can. It would be more appropriate to work through the summer before we post any kind of encampment that is this size and expect individuals to resolve their homelessness in 48 to 72 hours. There has to be a way for us to work together as a community because Wichita can do better. We're doing amazing things. We have one of the most resourceful COCs in the state, and we have an opportunity to shine in the nation as someone in a community who is developing innovative ways to address our homelessness that's humane and makes sense and is collaborative. Very rare do you see the police force involved in ways that aren't just policing individuals. The HOT Team is instrumental to helping us with getting the documentation that we need. The Housing Authority has created pathways that are new with the funding that we get, and they're being amazing stewards to the resources that we have. And we just ask that we can use these in ways that make sense as a community. Our nonprofit partners are also doing an amazing job. So we want to bring that to you so that when you're making decisions, like we said, we can make appropriate, realistic decisions and expectations. So I really appreciate you listening to us and rooting for us. And we really look forward to talking to each and every one of you individually and answer any questions that you might have of us. So thank you.

Thank you, Donna. We have two more spots available.

Hi, guys. My name is Sarah Cowling. I live at 2116 South Seneca. I live in, I think it's four. I'm also here, I'm the other founder of Grassroots. She's more the speaker person. I'm the person boots on the ground. I'm here to talk about the people that aren't in Chapin. Currently, I live off of Seneca and we have several encampments that are there. And during just this weekend, they have, these people are also signed up for housing. They're signed up for services. We have seven that are pretty close to, they come to my house, I use my mailbox for their address so they can get mail, which is a big start. And that's what a lot of people don't understand that we have people coming in and they're trying to push these people out on their own. This weekend, we had somebody, I just checked on the media reports on your guys' website to see if there was actually a police call dispatched there and we had some people that came out in police uniforms pushing these people out. They came in and they destroyed some of their stuff and these people can't fight back because then they become an attacker. The thing with Shape and Park is that it's been a safe place that we've kind of been bottlenecking them to there while they're waiting because like Donna said, it's a long process. I'm asking for advice from you guys, what you can do in each one of your districts. When I talked to the hot team about the people on Seneca, they said to talk to my representative for that, because he'd had complaints from the residents there about these neighbors. And these neighbors, they're not the ones, they're not panhandling, they're not out in the mix. These people are tucked away on city property, and people are coming in and pushing them out. I think with Chapin, I think the rush to get them closed up over there, we're gonna have nowhere for anybody to go. So I guess I'm just gonna wrap this up now, but I just thought that would be something that we need to look more when people are taking their time to harass the people that are trying to get housed. These people aren't causing crime. How do we do interaction with that? Because I think it is more of a crime to treat people inhumane, to make them constantly, we're gonna have crime Crime comes from people when they're frantic. And these people, they're not causing any harm. But if we keep moving them around, we're going to see more reports of things that are going on that, I mean, I hate to see, like, every time I hear a siren in my neighborhood, I don't know if it's somebody that's down and one of the unhoused people. I don't know if it's one of my kids. I don't know what's going on because people in our community There's people out there that think that they're better than other people. And it's really like, I've watched people I have a hard time talking because my whole life I've been in survival mode. I've been homeless most of my life. And so when I come up here and I speak, I don't know if I'm saying, you guys have been great about hearing this. But how do we get people in our district to hear the same thing? I mean, we can hear the people that hear me out here. And I don't know if you can hear me like this. I don't like the microphone. We need more equality. We need more time with an understanding. I think there's a lot of opportunities that aren't being given out to the people that need them the most. We need employment. Most of these people, if you need a job, people don't want to hire people that are homeless. And it never gets a chance to get out of the homeless. I mean, Second Light is an amazing idea. And I'm trying to get as many people funneled into that as we can. But they still have to get with services. And there's people that I want to be able to send them, hey, just go to the shelter now. There's a bed available. There's a 26-year-old girl. She needs treatment. She's got a bed date a month off. I'm worried about her dying before then. I'm worried about the kid that he keeps getting in trouble because he's still in food because he can't get food stamps. Now he's using my mailbox. My mailman thinks probably 30 people live in my house because they get a vision card, but you need mail for all of that. I want to say thank you for everything that you guys have done and for giving me the opportunity to get my voice. I hope that I'm going to be behind a lot more people that are going to come up here and say thank you also. Thank you.

Thank you. Council Member Shepherd.

Thank you. Thank you, Mayor. And I know that we try to reserve our comments because, you know, not that we don't want to engage with everyone, but we want to do our due diligence in making sure that we provide accurate information. And so typically after public speakers speak, we follow up a week after our city manager does. Sarah, I just have to tell you that I'm really grateful for you. I have been watching you from afar prior to my time on council and the community coming and speaking at these meetings. And I think you are a testament to the power of what happens when our community invests in someone. Most organizations who work in the housing or work with unhoused neighbors in the nonprofit space are required per HUD to have someone with lived experience serving on their nonprofit board. And I think that there's a reason behind that. Because you're right, as you alluded to, the folks who are most impacted by this deserve to be at the table helping shape policies. And many times we get in rooms and we think we know the answer, but we're not talking to the people most impacted. And when we do that, we're able to take our policies and what we believe is in the best interest of our taxpayers and really make sure that we are meeting the need for those who need that help and support. So you thanked us, but I just want to say thank you. It takes courage. It takes heart. It takes compassion to be up here. We're no better than you. We just wear blazers and ties sometimes, but some of us are one paycheck away from being exactly where the folks are in the encampments. So continue to speak up and elevating the voice because they deserve that opportunity to be heard too.

We have room for one more individual if anyone wants to speak. If not, we'll bring it back to the bench. City Manager, can you just address one quick question, which is what is the city's plan regarding individuals who are living in tents around not just Chapin Park, but really around our downtown core?

Thank you, Mayor. We have a two-pronged approach. One is we do have our housing staff. We've actually increased some of our housing staff members for case management through a grant from the private sector, but they are engaging folks around the community, whether it's downtown in encampments along the river, to offer resources. So one is using city staff, but also working with service providers where we talk about the second light or our low barrier shelter and working with other organizations to make sure we do have some services And then our other approach is taking a look at the encampments, yes, giving time frames. We are targeting late summer, so people do have opportunity to know there will be time frames to get services, have heads up, think about other services for locations for housing. and then we will look at encampment enforcement, and that also applies to streets, sidewalks, and other places throughout the community, and certainly along the river.

Thank you. I see no further comments. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

Consent Agenda Items 1 through 17.

Councilmembers, any items to be pulled? I see none. I will go ahead and move to approve consent agenda items 1 through 17.

Second.

Motion second. Discussion? See none. Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

Board of Bids and Contracts dated May 18, 2026.

Morning, Mayor, City Council, Josh Lauber, Department of Finance. The Board of Bids and Contracts convened yesterday, May 18th, for the following items. For engineering, we have the Minnesota Bridge Rehabilitation for Wildcat Construction Incorporated for a base bid of $1,298,648.20, subject to approval of a new engineer's estimate and budget authorization on the 26th. We have the Arkansas River East Bank Restoration Rebid for Phillips Southern Electric Contractors, LLC, or I should say now PSE Contractors, what they like to go by. It'll be $550,526.15. We have the 2026 Outsourced Pavement Preservation Program, CIP Microsurfacing and Street Repair for PPJ Construction Incorporated for $4,900,000. This was awarded from the original bid of $4,782,996.80 within the engineer's estimate. We have the water distribution system to serve St. Peter, the Apostle Catholic Church edition and second edition for Mies Construction Incorporated for $150,000. For purchasing, we have the indoor walk-in cooler freezer combo box for AAA Restaurant Supply LLC in the amount of $213,982. We have the miscellaneous air, fuel, and oil filters for Foreman Auto Supply Inc. and Mel Hamilton Ford Inc. for the discount rates listed. We have the HD CCTV inspection system mounted on existing high pressure cleaner for key equipment and supply company for $203,500. And we have the Concrete Demo Replacement at Fire Station 17 for Impact Services LLC for $103,256.80. We have EnviroSight Rover X Crawler System for Key Equipment and Supply Company for $144,929.67. We have the Water Works Supply Contract Group 7 Change Order for Wichita Wind Water Works Company for an amended amount of $8,016 per year. We have the Odor and Control, Corrosion Control Services Change Order Contract for US Peroxide LLC doing business as USP Technologies for the two line items listed and amended. And for airport, we have the Airport Web Road 37th Street Court Street Improvements for Pearson Construction LLC for $465,436.15. This is how to become a vendor with the city. This is a purchasing calendar of small business resource partner events we're hosting at the city or participating in. This is our open public opportunities out on the street today, closing the 22nd, the 29th, and the 19th. And I'll be happy to try to answer your questions and recommend your approval.

Thank you, Josh. Questions for staff? See none. Thank you. I will go ahead and move to approve the Board of Bids and Contracts dated May 18, 2026. Second. Motion second. Discussion? See none. Madam Clerk, please open the roll. All those in favor say aye. Aye. All those opposed, same sign. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item. Petitions for Public Improvements.

Good morning Mayor, City Council Members, Paul Gunzelman, Public Works and Utilities for the record. The signatures on the petitions represent 100% of the Improvement District and the petitions are valid per Kansas statute. Our VEDA second edition, located in District 5. On February 10th, 2026, City Council approved water improvements required for a new residential development. The developer has submitted revised petitions for Phase 1 and 2 to correct the acquisition fees. The budgets remain as previously approved. Bridger at Central Edition, located in District 5. On April 23rd, 2024, the City Council approved sewer improvements required for a new residential development. The developer has submitted a revised petition with revised budget to reflect current market conditions. And lastly, Yonge East Addition, located in District Two. On March 10th, 2026, City Council approved water improvements required for a new residential development. The developer has submitted a revised petition with the revised improvement district, and the budget remains as previously approved. It is recommended that the City Council approve the revised petitions and budget, adopt the amending resolutions, and authorize the necessary signatures. And I will stand for questions.

Thank you, Paul. Questions for staff? See none. I will move to approve the petitions for public improvements.

Second.

Motion second. Discussion? See none. Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

Contract for fire station alerting and automated dispatch.

Good morning, Mayor, City Council, Tammy Snow, Fire Chief. I'm here today to initiate the third phase, third and final phase of our radio communication project. Just to give you a little bit of background, the city currently maintains the alerting systems for 21 of our fire stations. Those alerting systems are all emergency response alerting systems, and they're used to notify our personnel of any kind of incoming emergency call. Currently, those alerting systems are in poor condition. The equipment's not standardized, and the functionality and the equipment vary greatly. This new station alerting system is designed to make the emergency responses faster, communication stronger, and ensure radios still work even if part of the system were to fail. We put out a request for proposal, and from that request for proposal, we received six bids. And so then we selected a staff screening and selection committee, which was formed with the representatives from law, finance, public works, Purchasing IT and the Fire Department. And then we also asked for an exception to AR 1.2, which is contracting for professional services based on selection, which allows a non-city staff member to join that And the reason we did that was because we thought it was very prudent to involve the Sedgwick County Emergency Communication Director, Laura Forshee, on that committee for the simple fact that it does involve the radio systems and it has to be a partnership between the city IT and the county IT to get information over to our station alerting. So she was a non-voting member and helped us make the recommendation that will be provided to you today. That was a two-day process. The committee went through a two-day process of actually interviewing three different vendors. And at the end of their review process, they elected to go with Purvis. It is out of the six bids. The bottom two, Bricks and Alpine Software, did not meet the requirements after review, so they were eliminated. And the difference between Purvis and the other ones that were submitted and reviewed was simply system design and more proprietary hardware, which the other two that were interviewed, Purvis gives us off-the-shelf software and hardware. So for financial considerations, the contract costs will be paid from the remaining funds from the fire station alerting emergency communication project, which is 2,720,000, and also the remaining funds from our fire radio and communication equipment project of 55,805. Then beginning in 2027, the city would then pay for the systems maintenance and the upgrades. The agreement with Purvis can be renewed up to four successive one-year terms. Year two starts out at $38,870, and it rises to year five at $43,740. The funding for that can be offset within our budget. The cost of our current MCTs increases. required new SIM cards, and the SIM card price came in less than was projected, so we currently have the funding in our budget to offset the cost. The law department has reviewed and approved the contract and the bonding resolutions to form, so the recommendation is that city council approve the contract, approve the bonding resolutions, and authorize the necessary signatures. And with that, I'll stand for questions.

Thank you, Chief Snow. Questions for Scott? I see none. We'll open it up for public comment. I see none. I'll bring it back to the bench. I will go ahead and move this item. Again, this is to improve the alerting system. This is also going to help with residents when they do call 911 and need that service, especially from our fire department. So I'm very grateful for this improvement coming to the fire stations. I move to approve the project contract bonding resolution and amending bonding resolutions and authorize the necessary signatures.

Second.

Motion second. Discussion? See none. Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

Contract with RideCo Inc. for demand response software.

Good morning, Mayor, City Council, Penny Feist, Wichita Transit. Here this morning to talk to you about a contract for our paratransit scheduling software. We utilize this software system to not only schedule paratransit rides, but also to determine eligibility for that service. And we use it for service delivery, which includes reporting of mileage and ridership and revenue hours, all things that are required for our Federal Transit Administration. The current contract that we have is set to expire in August, and we began this search to identify opportunities to enhance our efficiency and improve service delivery, which includes setting the foundation for future microtransit service. Right now, the software that we have is really good for paratransit, but as we look ahead to the future, we want to expand our infrastructure to allow that future service. Request for proposal was issued on October 28th, 2025. And we submitted this as a software, a group of packages because we have a number of softwares that are coming to the end of their terms. So this was group four of that proposal. So I'll be here over the next weeks and months with multiple of these, but this is the first. We received eight proposals for this particular package and shortlisting occurred on December 30th and interviews were conducted between January 12th and January 16th. The Staff Screening and Selection Committee recommends RIDECO for group four based on its competitive costs, its strong eligibility determination tools and its reporting capabilities. The proposed contract is for a one year period with four one year options to renew. We're able to fund the software with 80% federal funds from our grants, which requires a 20% local match. If all options are renewed, then the total five-year contract cost is $649,061, with our total portion being $129,812. It is recommended the City Council approve the contract and authorize necessary signature. I'm happy to answer any questions.

Thank you, Penny. Questions for staff? I see none. We'll open it up for public comment. I see none. I'll bring it back to the bench. Again, thank you for thinking towards the future as microtransiting is not available right now, but paratransit is available. And so this will allow for that future expansion or future opportunity. With that, I will move to approve the software contract with RideCo Inc. and authorize necessary signatures.

Second.

Motion second. Discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

Public Housing Recovery Agreement Status Report.

Good morning, honorable mayor, members of council, Sally Stang with the Housing and Community Services Department for the record. I have the monthly update to our recovery agreement. As you know, in January of 2025, the Wichita Housing Authority Board entered into a recovery agreement with the Department of Housing and Urban Development due to its low public housing assessment score related to the disposition of those public housing units. We are required to come to you monthly to provide you an update under that agreement. That agreement included actions related to improving the physical condition of the occupied dwelling units, repositioning the public housing properties, and providing you an update on capital fund projects. Related to improving the physical condition, all of the requirements of that recovery agreement have been met, which is great news. Repositioning public housing, that one unit still remains occupied. It is a sale to an existing tenant. It is an FHA mortgage, which prolongs the time it takes to get to closing. We are still hoping to close by the end of May. We did receive that approval of the final disposition application in June of last year. And as of the date this report was written, May 5th, we had sold 267 of the 352 properties and had 28 properties that were pending sale and provided a detailed list property by property of the status. We've been using a mixed methodology for disposing of public housing properties. Some units have been sold on the open market through our office of real estate or through our broker that was selected under RFP at Home Wichita. Other units have been sold under a request for proposal with affordable housing fund development subsidies and home down payment assistance that will have use restrictions as affordable home ownership. Some units have been sold by RFP with affordable housing funds and or project-based voucher subsidies for affordable rentals. We've sold others under a request for a proposal for affordable rentals with just a 15-year project-based voucher contract, and even others sold under RFP with no use restrictions and no additional subsidies. So I thought I'd give you a little... update on what's been happening. So this is actually a property that was sold on the open market with no use restrictions in February of 2024 for $87,000. the buyer renovated that property and resold it in May of 2024 for $137,000, which is still affordable at 50% of the area median income to an owner-occupant. And in 2025, we had property taxes collected of $1,787.03, so it went from exempt to actually collecting property taxes. This is a second example sold on the open market with no restrictions for $80,000 in early 24, renovated and resold for $165,000, still affordable at 50% area median income, and again, collecting property taxes. Another method, this was sold under RFP to Habitat for Humanity in early 2025 for $38,000 with affordable housing funds. They have renovated it and resold it in December of 2025 for $162,000, affordable at 80% area median income. And property taxes in 2025, still more than exempt, but not yet up to the rehabbed amount. So we will see that increase when it's reappraised. Another property sold to JDC Capital in early 2025 for $42,000 with affordable housing funds. It was renovated and leased under the project-based voucher in August of last year to a family of nine, and that was affordable at 30% area median income. And again, property taxes. Another property sold on the open market with no restrictions for $80,500 renovated and leased on the open market at 80% of the area median income. So still affordable and collecting property taxes. Another property sold by RFP to Sampayo for $93,000 with affordable housing funds, renovated and leased early this year to a Housing Choice Voucher family of eight, and that is affordable at 30% of the area median income and some property taxes. So that's just a sample across the mixed methodology that we've used. We talk area median income. I thought I'd provide you that table that shows for a family of four, 80% area median income actually means $77,200 to be affordable at 80% of that area median income, just to give you an idea of what we're talking about when we talk about area median income. So of those 267 properties sold as of May, we actually have 52 with rentals with deed restrictions, 11 unrestricted rentals that chose to lease to Housing Choice Voucher holders. We have unrestricted rentals that have leased on the market that are still leasing at affordable rates. There's 34 of those. We have home ownership with deed restriction, 47 of those. We sold eight properties to public housing tenants. And then we have unrestricted home ownership opportunities of 42 units. So of the 267, 194 still remain affordable in that realm. We know we're using public housing sales proceeds to build 50 units at Park Landing. We actually received an additional 167 vouchers from HUD as part of the disposition application. So that gives us another 167 units of affordability. So as of right now, our 267 units have turned into 411.

And we're not done yet, so I'm excited.

The end results of many of the other 73 that have sold are just not known yet. So we will know more. We won't have a final report until about a year after they all sell when we can determine that end result. And we have just over $14 million anticipated in public housing sales proceeds that have to be invested in Section 8 project-based voucher projects. And so that's quite a bit of funding there. And depending on how we deploy that, the number of units that will be created with that could be anywhere from 70 to 1,400. So if we were to leverage low-income housing tax credit projects, we generally provide $10,000 per unit. If we're investing to renovate or preserve existing housing, it's usually $25,000 to $40,000 a unit. And if we're going to build from the ground up, like Park Landing, you're looking at probably $165,000 to $200,000 a unit. So that's where you get your... 70 to 1,400 units. And we expect we're going to see a mix of how we deploy those. We will not get enough tax credit projects in our community to do 1,400 LIHTC units, right? So we'll be doing a mix, I'm sure. But it's really exciting to be able to take those 352 single-family homes and public housing and get two units out of one at least, right? We're going to end up with at least 700 units coming out of this. So very excited about this. The strategies for the remaining units, the affordable housing fund plan was updated last year so that we have some funding available for those units that are in the floodplain, the units that have environmental mitigation needs or other market challenges. We're going to have that RFP out in late June or early July. That'll be our last grouping of those. We have one unit that repairs are still underway following a fire. The RFP for Country Acres was reissued in April and closed in May, and actually that went before the Affordable Housing Review Board yesterday, and so we'll be bringing you their recommendations in June for the majority of those 20 of those units plus all five vacant lots. And then the remaining units are being sold on the open market. Capital fund projects, that last project, the roof work for those units that were in the floodplain, that is complete as of this time. The report, there is no impact to the general fund. The monthly update to the Wichita Housing Authority Board is required by the recovery plan, and it's recommended that the Wichita Housing Authority Board receive and file the recovery plan status update for May of 2026, and I stand for any questions.

Thank you, Sally. Questions for staff, beginning with Councilmember Johnston.

Thank you, Sally. Thanks for your great work. I guess evidence that it's working, and thanks for all your hard work at that. Just curious, yesterday the Housing Review Board viewed the houses in Country Acres. Can you say the decision? Are they sold?

Of the 26 properties, there's a recommendation for 20 of the properties. The sixth highest cost appraised value units did not receive a bid. So we'll be working with our internal team to prep those to go on the open market. And then there were five vacant lots that will be split between two different proposers to build, depends on zoning, whether they'll be able to build single family units or duplexes on those units, on those parcels.

Okay, thanks. Are the ones that did not sell, are those the three and four bedroom ones?

They're likely the five and six, because they were the ones that had the highest appraisal value, so they're the largest units.

Okay, okay, thank you.

Council Member Shepard.

Thank you, Sally, for being here, and phenomenal work as always. You mentioned Section 8 voucher-based housing projects where you are expected to receive about $14 million. Did I hear that correct?

That is the proceeds from all of these sales, but by regulation, those proceeds can only be invested in public housing or project-based voucher projects, and because we're getting out of the public housing business, it means they have to be invested in projects that have project-based voucher contracts attached.

So would our transitional housing qualify for something like that?

No. You can't use vouchers in transitional, but is it truly transitional housing? Because transitional housing has a specific definition with HUD. But the park landing, by definition, is not transitional housing. But it will lend itself to be an intermediary type housing, a housing where people, once they stabilize, are going to want to move on. And that's the beauty behind project-based vouchers. is that when somebody does stabilize and move on, they can still take subsidy with them, and then the next person who moves in receives subsidy in the unit.

Awesome, and I was asking based upon just the conversations we heard today, but also I know that the conversation in community is often the opportunity that we have to open up more housing for folks. And that leads me to my second and last question. You mentioned that you sold properties to eight property owners?

Eight public housing residents. So residents who were living in the public housing unit worked with them to get qualified for a mortgage, and they bought the unit they lived in.

They bought the unit they lived in. Yes. Awesome. Thank you so much.

We know that last one that's still waiting, that'll be number nine.

Right on.

Yep.

Great home ownership story right there. Sally, just a quick question back to park landing. What is the status of park landing? I drove by this past weekend, and I know we did the groundbreaking last year. Can you give us a status update?

So that has been approved by HUD. I know that the development team is still working through some last-minute permit issues, and then they're going to start moving dirt. So they're expecting a 13-month build, so we're hoping to open in June, beginning of June, beginning of July of next year. will be 50 housing can you reiterate some of the term it is a 75 unit building all of the units are identical but the units on the first floor will be for non congregate shelter really the big difference between non congregate shelter and housing is housing you have a lease in non congregate shelter you don't but it will be people occupying a single space it will be operated in as a shelter on the first floor. The second and third floors are housing units with leases, with project-based vouchers attached, but the idea that folks living there will be right next door to Second Light, able to receive services not only within Park Landing building, but as well as next door. Thank you, Sally. Yes.

I see no further questions for you. We will open it up for public comment. I see no one from the public who would like to speak. I will bring it back to the bench. And with that, I will move to receive and file the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Recovery Agreement and Public Housing Disposition Status Update Report.

Second.

Motion second. Discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item.

council member agenda approved that pursuant to section 2.04.090 mayor lily wu's travel expenses as estimated on the travel authorization and expense form to attend the league of kansas municipalities board meeting june 4th and 5th 2026 in mcpherson kansas for the purpose of representing the city of Wichita by meeting with federal officials consistent with AR 3.1 be approved. Upon return from travel, actual expenses shall be reported to the controller's office. Recommended action approve the travel.

Motion to approve the travel.

There's a correction. It should be state officials, not federal officials. Motion. I second it. Motion second discussion? Seeing none, Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. Madam Clerk, please call the next item. Councilmember appointments and comments? Councilmembers, are there any appointments? I see none council members. Any comments? Council member Johnston.

Thank you, Mayor. I'd like to ask the city manager to look into, well, two weeks ago, requested signs for the parking lot for City Hall to let people know that there's free parking at the Rounds and Porter. It's been a couple weeks, have not seen those signs. If we could put those signs up at the entrances to the City Hall parking lots, that there is free parking available at Rounds and Porter. And also, in the Rounds and Porter lot, we will also have to put a sign there that says, free parking allowed for City Hall. So if we could do that, I would appreciate it. At the time, I think the person said it wouldn't take very long to do that. That's it.

Any other comments, council members? I see none. I will move to adjourn this meeting at 1022 a.m. Second. Motion second. Discussion, none. Madam Clerk, please open the roll. Motion passes 7-0. We adjourn at 1023 a.m.