At the most recent Topeka City Council meeting, residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed half-cent sales tax meant to address the city’s looming budget shortfalls. But beyond the tax itself, one of the most prominent concerns raised was the city’s history of granting tax breaks and incentives to large developers while everyday residents are asked to shoulder the financial burden.
Topeka faces a projected deficit of $17 million in 2026 and $21 million in 2027, prompting City Manager Dr. Robert Perez to suggest the sales tax increase, which would generate an estimated $19 million per year. However, many residents argue that before imposing new taxes, the city should focus on collecting what it is already owed—particularly from its wealthiest developers.
“The budget has a shortfall, but we, as a city, keep giving the biggest developers breaks,” one resident said during the meeting. “We don’t enforce collection of owed property taxes, we hand out development tax incentives like candy, and then we’re told the solution is raising taxes on the rest of us? Maybe it’s time to give the richest residents a pause in help and collect what they owe.”
Critics of the proposal argue that developers and large property owners are frequently granted tax abatements, delayed payment plans, and other incentives while the average taxpayer is expected to cover the city’s financial gaps. The sentiment was echoed by multiple speakers who urged city leaders to rethink their fiscal priorities before turning to a tax increase.
Dr. Perez acknowledged the concerns and said city officials would conduct a deeper review of the budget to identify potential savings before moving forward with the sales tax. He also pointed to efforts to sell Hotel Topeka as a key step in improving the city’s financial standing. However, he did not rule out bringing the sales tax proposal back in the future.
For now, Topekans remain skeptical, with many calling for greater accountability in how the city manages its financial obligations—and whose pockets it chooses to protect.
To Read more about the happenings of the Topeka City Council Read the Agenda on Sundays and the Rundown on Thursday evening,
