Topeka Councilwoman receives mixed reactions on pumping station plan

TOPEKA (KSNT) – 27 News sat down with City Councilwoman Michelle Hoferer to discuss a new pumping station proposal that was sent back to the Planning Commission.

Maverik has more than 400 locations in 12 states and wants to expand to Kansas. It’s looking to add a location off of I-70 on Fairlawn where the old Holidome was located. On July 1, the governing body voted to submit a request to the planning commission to reconsider the property’s zoning.

Hoferer said the City Council asked the Planning Commission to get more information, revote and send the proposal back to the council.

27 News asked if Hoferer has been hearing positive or negative feedback regarding the proposal. Hoferer said she’s heard feedback from both sides but said she’s heard more negative feedback than positive.

“I’m getting lots of feedback, both ways,” Hoferer said. “Probably more to the negative.”

Hoferer said Maverik looked at several locations. She said the company is working to connect a series of stations on I-70 from Utah going east. She said this was an open spot that could be seen from I-70.

Hoferer said it’s an odd site that’s hard to get in and out of. She said the project would affect traffic. She said a traffic study said this wouldn’t be an issue but added that she wants to see the traffic study for herself.

If the planning commission approves the request again, it will go back to the city council for reconsideration.

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