From Hollywood to Topeka: Nic Trammell’s Plan to Rebuild Entertainment Infrastructure

From Hollywood to Topeka: Nic Trammell Runs for City Council District 9

By Church The Disk Jockey · September 20, 2025

Nic Trammell, bringing Hollywood perspective and civic focus to Topeka’s District 9 race.

Nic Trammell, a former Hollywood professional turned Topeka resident, has filed to run for City Council District 9. His campaign blends traditional civic priorities like infrastructure and code enforcement with a push to strengthen the entertainment infrastructure of Greater Topeka.

Hollywood Roots, Topeka Future

Before relocating to Kansas, Trammell lived and worked in Los Angeles, gaining firsthand experience in the entertainment industry. That background, he says, gave him insight into how creative economies can fuel local development when supported with the right policies and community spaces.

“Entertainment is more than movies and music—it’s jobs, tourism, and civic pride,” Trammell explains. “Topeka deserves an infrastructure that nurtures local talent and attracts outside attention.”

A Platform Centered on Growth

Trammell talks about the basics—roads, housing, and city services—but distinguishes himself by adding arts and entertainment into the conversation. His platform includes:

• Revitalizing underused venues and performance halls.
• Encouraging public–private partnerships to support live events and festivals.
• Creating opportunities for local creatives to showcase their work in Topeka rather than leaving for bigger markets.
• Positioning Topeka as a cultural destination within Kansas and the Midwest.
• Strengthening code enforcement to protect neighborhoods and renters.
• Investing in infrastructure repairs: streets, water mains, and sewers.
• Improving transparency in budgeting and decision-making.

Why It Matters

The entertainment industry is often overlooked in city planning, but its impact is far-reaching. Vibrant cultural spaces attract visitors and young professionals while boosting civic pride. At the same time, District 9 faces visible challenges: aging utilities, broken roads, and housing concerns.

Trammell argues that addressing both the basics and the cultural sector could redefine Topeka’s future. “Invest in entertainment infrastructure now, and Topeka becomes a hub. Ignore it, and we risk losing our talent to other markets,” he says.

The District 9 Race

Trammell officially filed for the District 9 seat on May 30, 2025. The general election will be held on November 4, 2025. The contest is nonpartisan, and District 9 covers a wide swath of west Topeka.

Voters will choose between incumbent Michelle Hoferer, challenger Chris Deister, and Nic Trammell.

District 9 Infrastructure Entertainment General Election 2025

Questions for Voters to Consider

• How will infrastructure repairs be funded without new tax burdens?
• What’s the timeline for consistent housing and property code enforcement?
• Can affordable housing projects be delivered and maintained in District 9?
• What concrete steps will increase transparency in city decisions?
• How will arts and entertainment investments tie back into economic growth?

Looking Ahead

Nic Trammell’s candidacy brings an uncommon mix: a focus on the basics like streets and housing, paired with a belief that entertainment infrastructure is economic infrastructure. With Hollywood experience in his toolkit and Topeka’s cultural future on his mind, his run for District 9 offers voters a fresh perspective on what local government can prioritize.

Sources

1. Ballotpedia — Nic Trammell candidate profile
2. Topeka Capital-Journal — Candidate issues
3. WIBW — District 9 coverage
4. Official candidate filing
5. Shawnee County Election Office — Election info