At its June 25, 2024 meeting, the City of Topeka Land Bank Board of Trustees voted to approve the Land Bank budget and several lots for transfer to the Land Bank.

In 2023, the city's Governing Body voted to set aside $500,000 for a 3-year land bank pilot program, with the goal of transforming vacant and blighted properties into affordable housing. With the approval by the Board of Trustees to take in lots to the land bank, the process is moving forward. The five approved lots are already city-owned, but needed to be formally added to the land bank to allow the city to place them for sale.

"We understand that this initiative alone will not solve our housing shortage, but it is a vital pillar that supports the other initiatives and efforts led by the City of Topeka and our economic development organizations," said Manny Herron, land bank board member and founder of IPG Building Co. "Together, these efforts will drive comprehensive and sustainable growth in our housing market."

Developers that are interested in purchasing property from the land bank can view available parcels on the city's public map portal. After finding a property, they will need to submit the proper application materials to the Board of Trustees. After submission, the Board of Trustees will review the application and select applicants based on the applicant selection rubric.

Properties can also be donated to the land bank. Those interested in donating a property to the land bank will need to submit the proper application materials, and then undergo an inspection process on the property. After submission, the Board of Trustees will review the application and select applicants based on the property selection rubric.

"We eagerly anticipate the innovative responses from developers and their contributions to increasing access to quality housing. This initiative is more than just a project; it is a testament to our dedication to seeing Topeka thrive," said Herron. "I look forward to witnessing the positive impact this program will have on our city and its future."

To learn more about the City of Topeka Land Bank, please visit: https://www.topeka.org/government/boards-commissions/topeka-land-bank/