Daily editionWednesday, July 16th, 2025
Good morning, Wichita.
The Daily Wichita Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 16th of July.
Business
New owners of Towne West Mall began renovations after the City Council approved millions in industrial revenue bonds to transform the property into a business park + the plan will update the exterior for a modern look while new businesses are slated to move in by the first quarter of next year. Construction started July 7 and the redevelopment aims to repurpose the mall for industrial or office use.
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Economy
Panasonic opened the country’s largest electric vehicle battery plant Tuesday in De Soto, investing $4 billion in a 300-acre facility that has already hired 1,000 workers.
The plant is expected to boost local economic activity by generating up to $2.5 billion annually and creating thousands of jobs through its supply chain—making it the largest project in both Panasonic and Kansas history.
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Education
Galen College of Nursing in Wichita graduated its first class — a major milestone for the city's newest nursing school.
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Government
Wichita started a new I-9 compliant municipal ID program on June 30 for residents 14 and older—helping many access city services such as food banks and free transit for veterans, with 110 cards printed and 175 applications received in seven business days.
The card, which is only available for use in Wichita and cannot be used for voting, driving, or buying alcohol, will also be issued at a second location in the fall once it is ready.
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Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach said today that the state will receive about $5.7 million from a $720 million settlement with eight drug makers accused of worsening the opioid crisis.
The funds will go to prevent and treat drug addiction in Kansas—helping hold the companies accountable for their illegal marketing practices.
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Today, the Wichita City Council approved the proposed 2026 budget framework—totaling over $1 billion, reducing the mill levy to 32.316 mills with $175 million in property taxes—and scheduled three public comment meetings on August 7, August 19 and August 26 before adoption.
The council also authorized a $3 million project to redesign the 29th Street N. and Broadway intersection and granted City Manager Robert Layton permission to meet new federal grant requirements to avoid a potential loss of $100 million.
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Neighbors on Dellrose received a mailed notice from Wichita that requires them to repair or re-level their sidewalks in 30 days—some homeowners face charges up to $1268 if they call the city or an independent company.
Residents such as Michelle Johnson say the repairs should be covered by the city since the sidewalks are on city property.
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Wichita Events
Laid Back Country Picker Concert
Thursday, July 17th, 2025 · 8-10 p.m. — WAVE — Full bar available — Experience a unique blend of 70s rock, honky-tonk, and punk with Laid Back Country Picker.
The Basketball Tournament (TBT)
Friday, July 18th, 2025 · 1-2:30 p.m. — Charles Koch Arena — Ticketed event — Witness the excitement of the TBT regional featuring the Aftershocks and thrilling matchups.
2nd Annual Couples Two-Day Golf Tournament
Saturday, July 19th, 2025 · 9 a.m. — Auburn Hills Golf Course — $150 Per Person; $300 Per Team — Showcase your golfing skills, enjoy a delightful dinner, and dance the night away with live music.
Chair Yoga Session at Haysville Senior Center
Monday, July 21st, 2025 · 10:00 – 10:45 AM — Haysville Senior Center — Free for members — Experience gentle movements with a focus on flexibility, balance, and community.
Dirty Red & The Soul Shakers Live
Friday, July 25th, 2025 · 7-11 p.m. — Walker's Jazz Lounge — $5 off your first drink with proof of membership — Experience fiery blues and high-energy soul performances from this powerhouse band.
Yelawolf 45 Tour
Saturday, July 26th, 2025 · 8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Cotillion — All Ages — Experience Yelawolf's musical journey with special guest J. Michael Phillips at this live concert event.
2025 Summer Curvy Yoga Series
Sunday, July 27th, 2025 · 1-2 p.m. — Yoga Central — Registration required — Explore adaptive yoga for every body in a welcoming environment.
Camp Totus Tuus for 11th and 12th Grade Girls
Monday, July 28th, 2025 · 9 AM – 12 PM — Totus Tuus — $399 — A week-long camp for female students entering grades 11-12 offering food, lodging, and transportation.
Creed Concert
Tuesday, July 29th, 2025 · 7-8:30 p.m. — INTRUST Bank Arena — Tickets from $60 — Experience an electrifying performance from the iconic rock band Creed in Wichita.
National Baseball Congress World Series
Wednesday, July 30th, 2025 · 12:00 – 1:30 PM — Eck Stadium - Tyler Field — Free entry — Witness top amateur baseball teams compete in the thrilling NBC World Series.