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NODA presents 2025 budget prioritizing trash and snow removal, beautification and artist support
Summary
NODA arts district director Pedro Concepcion briefed Topeka’s governing body on a small 2025 budget focused on trash and snow removal, lighting, banner replacement and partnerships with local nonprofits.
Pedro Concepcion, NODA (North Topeka/NoDo) arts director and chief executive officer, presented the district’s 2025 budget to the governing body on June 3, 2025, asking the city to approve the allocation of modest district funds for operations and beautification.
Concepcion said the district plans to spend about $44,800 on snow and trash removal and that NODA maintains a partnership with a local nonprofit, TRM, for cleanup services. "We actually have a good collaboration with them where we pay about $3,200 a year," Concepcion said, describing the arrangement as a way to provide work opportunities and keep the district clean.
He outlined smaller budget items aimed at safety and vibrancy, including lighting a sign in an alley that has been dark for more than two years and replacing banners that display local artists’ work. "We're really focused on trying to light up the sign ... to create vibrancy in the district and for safety purposes as well," Concepcion said.
Council members complimented the district’s progress and asked about enforcement and collection of district dues. Concepcion said the city’s redevelopment program had helped encourage businesses to stay current on assessments because eligibility for redevelopment funds requires accounts to be in good standing.
Concepcion urged residents to attend First Friday events and other programming aimed at drawing families and consistent crowds to the district.
This was a presentation and informational briefing; no separate council action on the NODA budget was recorded in the meeting minutes.
