JEDO approved the incentive for up to $1,249,000 at its June 24, 2015, meeting. This grant will help fund a proposed new $20 million facility as well as purchase $3.5 million in new equipment. The new facility is envisioned to be 80,000 sq. ft., and the project when finalized will result in 223 retained employees and up to 17 new employees. “FHLBank Topeka has been an integral part of Topeka for eighty-three years. I acknowledge the vital role the bank plays in our financial system and gratefully appreciate their investment in our city,” said Topeka Mayor Larry Wolgast.
“FHLBank Topeka and their employees have been valued members of our community for many years. Their presence and commitment to our community is significant so keeping them here with their more than 220 employees is huge,” said Scott Griffith, Chairman GO Topeka Board of Directors. “This is a great example of the positive outcome when GO Topeka collaboratively works with a local business, JEDO and the City of Topeka, toward a solution that is calculated to retain a business in Topeka. I am very proud that GO Topeka, City of Topeka and JEDO desire to assist FHLBank Topeka to expand and remain in Shawnee County for many years to come.”
“This is a tremendous opportunity for JEDO, GO Topeka, and our community. FHLBank Topeka is an admired employer that wants to modernize and grow in Topeka” said Shawnee County Commissioner Bob Archer. “The positive impact this expansion could have on the community will be felt for years to come.”
“We are very pleased with the progress in our discussions around constructing a new home for FHLBank Topeka. We are optimistic that the other pieces will come into place for a final decision in the near future,” said Pat Doran, FHLBank Topeka SVP, General Counsel.