TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is ordering state offices to stay closed for another day this week while Topeka leaders follow suit with city offices due to a powerful winter storm.
Kelly issued the order on Monday, Jan. 6, according to a press release from the Office of the Governor. All state offices in Shawnee County are to be closed on Tuesday, Jan. 7.
"Although crews are making progress, the roads remain hazardous. Therefore, state office buildings in Shawnee County will be closed on Tuesday." Kelly said. “While weather conditions have improved, it is important that Kansans practice safety by remaining indoors as crews work to clear roadways. Thank you to all of our first responders, medical professionals, public works crews, and state employees who are committed to ensuring the safety of our state throughout this weather event.”
All non-essential state employees in the executive branch agencies are included in this order that fall under the governor's jurisdiction in Shawnee County. Appointing authorities in offices located outside the county can make their own decision regarding whether or not to close their offices.
Essential employees are required to report in to work as they would normally, according to the Office of the Governor. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record inclement weather eave during the period of inclement weather. Remote work is not required at this time.
The City of Topeka announced on Jan. 6 in a social media post that its offices and non-essential services will be closed on Tuesday, Jan. 7. This closure impacts the Topeka Municipal Court, Probation Offices and Everside employee onsite clinic. Topeka's City Council will also meet virtually on Jan. 7.
City employees are encouraged to contact their supervisors with questions regarding whether they need to report in normally. Essential personnel are still required to clock in as usual.
Kansas state offices are also set to close for a Day of Mourning on Jan. 9. This closure is associated with the recent passing of former President Jimmy Carter.
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