WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – The city of Wichita is sitting on some extra cash, $6 million to be exact. The money comes from the $20 million sale of the Hyatt Hotel.
Mayor Jeff Longwell called it a good financial opportunity for Wichita.
“Certainly, $6 million would go a long, long way to improving some of the amenities that make a difference in people’s lives especially quality of life in neighborhoods.”
But, nothing has been decided just yet. Council members have tucked away the money and are hoping to hear from the public about how they would like it spent. Longwell said council members have talked about possibly using the money as a lump sum on one project, but they’re looking at other ideas.
“There has been some talk that we divide the $6 million up between the districts,” Longwell added.
Council member James Clendenin said if that were to happen, he would like to see the money reinvested in neighborhoods. Clendenin said $1 million would be a valuable.
“You may see improvements to parks, improvements to infrastructure, you may see support of neighborhood museum.”
He plans on having a discussion about the use of the money at upcoming district advisory board meetings. He’s encouraging Wichitan’s to show up and give their input.
“My hope is that in the next month or two that we really do have all of those public meetings done and have a robust discussion on that,” he added.
Mayor Jeff Longwell said they are planning on opening up time for the public to share how they feel the money should be used at future city council meetings.
Click here to find a list of the District Advisory Board Meetings.
