Mayor launches workforce development task force and urges residents to weigh in on city budget

The mayor announced the formation of a workforce development task force and said residents can apply by emailing mayor@topeka.org as he seeks public guidance on budget priorities.

"This task force will help us identify gaps, develop strategies, and ensure we are aligning our efforts to meet current and future needs," the mayor said, describing the group's role in shaping city workforce policies and practices.

The announcement was part of a broader pledge to create multiple advisory groups, including an economic advisory group, a community engagement team, a government innovation committee and a reformulated youth council. The mayor said the groups will provide direct guidance to his office and to staff on projects the city cannot fully manage through routine operations.

He urged residents to complete a city budget survey that is open through April 17 and to review the city's online budget portal, saying public responses will help the mayor and council prioritize trade-offs. "Tell us where your priorities are, and then tell us where your priorities aren't," he said.

The mayor named Luzone Grama as an early collaborator who has attended council meetings and brought workforce ideas to city leaders. He said he expects the initial workforce task force to be functional and not overly large, noting "if we get into that 20-ish range, you might be starting to get a little large." He said he will announce application details on social media later this week and begin convening the group in the next month or two.

The mayor framed the effort as part of his first-100-days priorities to listen, set expectations with the governing body and lay groundwork for the rest of his term.