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Council Approves $720,206 in 2026 Special Alcohol and Drug Funding
Summary
The governing body approved the city's recommended allocations from state liquor-tax prevention funds for 2026, totaling $720,206 and funding five agencies/six programs at their full requests. A public commenter questioned historical uses of liquor-tax revenues.
The Topeka City Council on Oct. 21 approved the city's recommended allocations for the 2026 special alcohol and drug funding program, which the city said is supported by a share of the state liquor-by-the-drink tax that state law directs to prevention programs.
Carrie Higgins, Housing Services Division director, told the council staff recommended funding five agencies and six programs at the full amounts requested, using the state-designated prevention allocation. The total recommended allocation shown in staff materials was $720,206.
Before the vote, public commenter Henry McClure urged the council to revisit the historical origination and use of liquor taxes and questioned whether some previously directed dollars should be returned to prevention programs.
Councilwoman Hiller moved approval and Deputy Mayor Kell seconded. The clerk announced the motion carried with 10 yes votes.
Why it matters: The state liquor tax includes a distribution that localities must use for alcohol- and drug-prevention services; the council's action programs funding for local NGOs and service providers in 2026.
What council directed or decided: The council approved the 2026 funding allocations as recommended by staff. The action authorizes city staff to issue the awards or contracts to the funded agencies and programs.
Ending: Staff will notify award recipients and proceed with contracting and distribution of the funds per applicable grant conditions.
