Topeka OKs Repair Levy

Voters in Topeka last week approved a proposal to levy an additional 0.5% sales tax to repair streets and other infrastructure by a margin of 47% to 43%. The 10-year tax will go into effect Oct. 1, and cannot be extended without voter approval.

The new levy will raise the sales tax in Topeka to 7.95% from the current 7.45%.

Officials expect the tax hike to generate up to $140 million over its span. The funding is restricted to maintenance and improvements of existing streets and sidewalks approved by the City Council.

City manager Norton Bonaparte said a comprehensive street improvement plan would be presented to the council soon.

“We will do our best to meet the public’s expectations in rebuilding our deteriorated streets and adjacent infrastructure, and to provide accountability for all funds collected,” Bonaparte said.

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