The Topeka City Council gave the Chief of Police permission to let officers in the department wear their uniform while off-duty. This new ordinance only applies to officers who are working security assignments on other jobs. The Topeka Police Department believes that communities will be safer if law enforcement, while working for private companies, are able to show the public that they are trained officers with the department.
Read more: KSNT 27 News

Jackson County leaders are expressing their skepticism about the size of a proposed new solar facility in the local area. Jackson County’s Board of County Commissioners met on Monday, Oct. 20 to discuss plans for a new 500-megawatt renewable energy facility called Jeffrey Solar. The solar farm would be installed west of Holton and take up around 6,600 football fields of space. NextEra Energy Resources is the driving force behind the project, which promises to deliver a big investment into the county along with new jobs. However, NextEra’s plans are getting some pushback from county commissioners. “I have a trust issue,” said Jackson County Commissioner Keith Kelly. “You are talking about a large company, you’re talking about a small community, we don’t have a bank of attorneys, or funds, I don’t think any of us are in favor of anything larger than 2,000 acres.”
Read more: KSNT 27 News

After almost two years the Peabody City Council will start enforcing its rules on camping on owned properties. Scott Spunaugles and wife Kathy Crawley, received permission in January 2024, to live in a camper on their property in the 600 block of Sycamore St. for six months while remodeling their house. The council asked them to come back July 8 and provide an update.
Read more: Marion County RECORD

The Haven City Council discussed food truck permits and kids riding electric scooters through town at high speeds, among other items, during its Monday evening meeting. The city’s current food truck policy requires vendors to apply for a permit to operate at any time for one year from the date of application, if approved. Food truck employees have to pass a Police Department-run background check, and any employees the vendor adds throughout the year have to pass as well. The permit has a one-time $50 fee, and the pink paper permit has to be posted on the truck. Previously, the council addressed concerns about local restaurants with set hours being able to compete with food trucks that can operate at any time.
Read more: The Hutchinson Tribune

Mayor Michael Padilla has been named the 2025 Kansas Mayor of the Year by the League of Kansas Municipalities and the Kansas Mayors Association. The award is selected by fellow mayors, recognizing Padilla’s commitment to Topeka’s growth and well-being.
Read more: CJonline

Provalus looks for small towns where incomes are low and people are eager for positions that will teach them 21st-century skills.
Read more: Wall Street Journal