Council adds medical-cannabis support and vacant-structure tax language to 2026 legislative agenda

The Topeka City Council voted Dec. 2 to adopt its 2026 legislative agenda after debate and amendments.

City staff and Council Chair Duncan presented a draft agenda and invited input. Councilwoman Brenda Hiller proposed an amendment asking the state to reexamine statutes and appraisal practices that allow taxable value of vacant but rehabilitatable structures to be zeroed out; Hiller said the practice can reduce owner incentive to repair and can increase local code‑compliance burdens. Council discussed enforcement, appraisal standards and the potential to modernize valuation rules.

Council also considered language offered by the city attorney to add a section titled "Legalization of Cannabis." The added text states the city supports legalization of medical cannabis in Kansas, subject to state and local tax and allowing cities to opt in to dispensary locations and to levy excise fees or receive a portion of state funds to offset local impacts. Councilman Miller and others argued the city should signal support now to be prepared as legislation moves at the state level; Councilmembers Ortiz and Dobler voted against the medical-cannabis amendment on the recorded amendment vote (6 yes, 2 no). The full agenda, as amended, was later approved by the council.

Council also added language supporting enhanced state efforts to prevent and prosecute human trafficking and child abuse, including resources and training for local governments. Council directed staff to transmit the adopted agenda to the Shawnee County delegation ahead of scheduled meetings.