A citizens group has filed an appeal of a Sedgwick County judge’s decision striking down their petitions to save the Century II Convention Center.

The group Save Century II had filed petitions with over 17,000 signatures, but the city challenged the legality of the petitions.  Judge Eric Commer ruled that the petitions cannot call for future binding elections.  The petitions called for an ordinance requiring a vote of the people before action is taken to demolish an historically significant building. The judge says it proposes an administrative ordinance, which violates state law.

The group said it has retained Wichita attorney Austin Parker for the appeal, and they are asking for donations to help with the costs involved.  The group said an anonymous donor has stepped up to offer matching funds.

Wichita city council members have said they are committed to having a public vote on the future of Century II.