DISCUSSION with POSSIBLE ACTION of a RESOLUTION introduced by City Manager Dr. Robert M. Perez, calling for a special election to be held on March 2, 2027, for the purpose of submitting to qualified electors of the City of Topeka a proposition to authorize the City of Topeka, Kansas to levy an additional special purpose citywide retailer’s sales tax in the amount of one-tenth percent (0.1%) to fund the affordable housing trust fund and support homeless initiatives inside City limits.

Voting Requirement: Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

(Approval will call for an election to allow public vote on a new special purpose sales tax.)

Discussion with possible action. Action requires at least six (6) votes of the Governing Body.

Whether or not to have an election for a new 0.1% special purpose sales tax to fund an  affordable housing trust fund and homeless initiatives inside City limits.

Discussion with possible action. Staff recommends (1) approval of a Special Purpose Citywide Retailer's Sales Tax of 0.1% to fund the affordable housing trust fund and homeless initiatives inside City limits and (2) the proposed amendment to the City's Charter Ordinance concerning a City Auditor to be considered for referendum in March 2027.

In August 2027, Staff recommends approval of a new half-cent citywide sales tax for general purposes, and renewal of the existing half-cent citywide infrastructure sales tax.    

Following discussion on various sales tax initiatives, the Governing Body will discuss and possibly consider voting on the question of levying a city retailers’ sales tax in the amount of one-tenth percent (0.1%) on retail sales consummated within the City, for the special purpose of funding the affordable housing trust fund and support homeless initiatives inside City limits. If approved, a special election will be held on March 2, 2027. The vote shall be by mail ballot, and the propositions will be printed on the ballot with voting instructions as provided by law. 

If approved by a majority of the electors voting, such tax shall be subject to all applicable state laws and administrative rules and regulations of the Kansa Department of Revenue. The services of the Kansas Department of Revenue shall be utilized to administer, enforce and collect such tax. 

A new, one-tenth of a cent (0.1%) special purpose citywide retailer's sale tax would generate approximately $4 million annually to fund the affordable housing trust fund and homeless initiatives inside City limits. The cost of a special election by mail in ballot will be approximately $118,000 to be paid from the General Fund.

Special Purpose Citywide Retailer's Sales Tax