The City of Topeka is taking steps to finalize the purchase of Hotel Topeka at City Center, and multiple public discussions are expected in October.
During the October 17 Topeka City Council Meeting, the Governing Body will consider approving a resolution to create a not-for-profit entity known as the Topeka Development Corporation. The purpose of the corporation is to hold title to Hotel Topeka, and enables the entity to contract with a management company who will oversee day to day hotel operations. It also allows the corporation to obtain necessary licenses and property insurance.
“The formation of the Topeka Development Corporation allows us to engage in regular business operations, such as contracting with the management company to ensure a seamless transition, and to ensure hotel operations continue as normal. We want the public to know that throughout this entire transition period, and beyond, the hotel will remain open for business,” said Braxton Copley, Public Works Director and Project Manager for the City of Topeka. “We are excited about these next steps to ensure the redevelopment of this important asset, and we look forward to seeing the hotel become a vibrant attraction that will positively impact our tourism economy for years to come.”
If approved on Tuesday, documents for the corporation will be filed with the Kansas Secretary of State’s Office for official formation. Upon formation, the corporation will include a 10-person Board of Directors, consisting of the current Governing Body members.
The corporation will hold a virtual organizational meeting on October 19 at 3 p.m. to approve bylaws and necessary corporate resolutions. These steps will allow the corporation to take ownership of the hotel on October 31.
Both the October 17 and October 19 meetings are open to the public. To learn more about the meetings, including how to attend, and information on how to sign up to make public comment, visit https://www.topeka.org/calendar/.