(785) 234-2644

719 S. Kansas Ave. Ste. 100, Topeka, KS 66603

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Downtown Topeka Business Improvement District Information

2026 BID Plan

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We understand you may have questions regarding your 2025 Business Improvement District (BID) invoice. Below are the answers to the most common inquiries we have received:

Where did the square footage information originate?

The square footage data was provided by the Shawnee County Appraiser Office. In previous years, square
footage was self-reported and often inconsistent. To ensure greater accuracy moving forward, we are now
basing square footage on the county’s official property records. If you believe this information is incorrect, you
may contact the Downtown Topeka, Inc. office to discuss square footage as it relates to your BID fee by email: info@downtowntopekainc.com, or call 785-234-2644.

No, this is not a tax. The BID fee is a service fee authorized by City ordinance and levied on businesses located within the Downtown Business Improvement District. These funds directly support services that enhance the downtown area.

All funds collected through the BID go toward enhancing the cleanliness, safety, marketing, and vibrancy of Downtown Topeka. This includes community events, beautification efforts, district maintenance, business promotion, and more — all with the goal of making downtown a better place to live, work, and visit.
Please refer to the City of Topeka Municipal Code: 3.40.020.

Please refer to the City of Topeka Municipal Code: 3.40.030.
• Occupied space is defined as the total area designated for exclusive use by an owner or tenant, for which rent is paid.
• It does not include public restrooms, hallways, stairwells, elevators, lobbies, mechanical rooms, or areas unfit for use under city code.
• Unoccupied real estate refers to property that is vacant or held for sale/lease — not in current use by a business or tenant.

If you believe a portion of your building qualifies as unoccupied, you may submit documentation (such as photos or layout diagrams) or appeal to the Appraiser’s Office.

P: 785-251-6000 | Website: https://www.snco.gov/ap/

If you believe your square footage, tier, or occupancy status is incorrect, or if you believe you should be exempt please contact: Info@downtowntopekainc.com

If you are no longer operating at the listed location or have sold the property, please notify us as soon as possible so we can update our records. You may disregard the invoice if you no longer own or operate at that address.

No, the BID service fee is not prorated. The fee applies to the business or property owner occupying or owning space within the district during the billing year, regardless of when they move in or out. This is consistent with the ordinance and allows us to maintain consistent funding for district-wide services throughout the year.

Refer to BID Municipal Code: 3.40.050

If your BID (Business Improvement District) fee is not paid, the following may occur:

  • Debt to the City of Topeka: Unpaid fees are considered a debt owed to the City of Topeka. The City Attorney has grounds to file a civil lawsuit to recover the amount due. 

  • Business Operation Impact: It is unlawful to continue operating a business in the district if BID fees are past due and unpaid. Doing so may result in a fine of up to $500 per day until payment is received.

  • Impact on Access to Services: Continued nonpayment may result in the withholding or reduction of BID-funded services, including landscaping, lighting, streetscape amenities, maintenance, district-wide promotions, and eligibility for grants or other financial assistance.

  • Possible Legal Discretion: The City my choose not to pursue legal action if the amount owed is $50 or less, or if other factors make legal action impractical.

    We encourage all businesses to reach out with any questions or concerns before fees become delinquent, in an effort to work together on a resolution. 

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