Public Meetings - Joplin, Missouri

The Joplin Zoning and Planning Commission convened on Monday, July 14, 2025, at an unspecified time. The meeting was called to order with a roll call, and the commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting. The main agenda included three cases: two rezoning requests (cases 021-25 and 022-25) and a preliminary plat review (case 023-25). Additionally, a new business discussion addressed upcoming amendments to the historic preservation zoning code. No public testimony was offered on any case. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the prior meeting, with a motion by Ms. Clue Michael and a second by Dr. Rosenberg. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition to any of the cases presented. Discussion Items - Case 021-25: Rezoning from M2 (Heavy Industrial) to R3 (Multifamily Residential) at 912 South Sgt. Avenue Applicant Sam Hickey requested to rezone a 50-foot lot to build a duplex or single-family home, noting the existing M2 zoning was outdated given surrounding residential uses. City staff recommended R3 for consistency with adjacent zoning, but several commissioners questioned the appropriateness of R3 on such a narrow lot. After discussion, the commission voted to approve the rezoning to R2 (Two-Family Residential) instead, citing better fit for the lot size. Hickey confirmed a rear-facing garage would be used, in compliance with walkable neighborhood design guidelines. - Case 022-25: Rezoning from R1 (Single-Family Residential) to R2 (Two-Family Residential) at 1001 South McKinley Avenue Sam Hickey, representing Compass West, requested rezoning to permit a duplex on a larger lot with nearby R2 parcels. No questions were raised, and the commission unanimously approved the request as submitted. - Case 023-25: Preliminary Plat Review for The Cottage at Emerald Glades at 642 East Fountain Road Lillian Bryant (representing Shuber Mitchell Holmes) presented a revised preliminary plat. The main change from the prior submission was the addition of an outlot in the northwest corner, with lots 1, 2, and 3 reduced in size to accommodate a detention pond for stormwater requirements. Staff noted the changes were significant enough to require commission approval. The commission approved the plat unanimously. - New Business: Historic Preservation Commission and Zoning Code Amendments A commissioner inquired about an upcoming Historic Preservation Commission meeting regarding Appendix E. Staff clarified that the commission is beginning to discuss text amendments that would eventually come before the Planning and Zoning Commission and then City Council. The proposed changes aim to clarify designations: historic districts (like the Sunshine Lamp District) would be labeled "HD" (Historic District), while individual historic properties would be labeled "HL" (Historic Landmark). Staff emphasized that the amendments would not strengthen or weaken preservation rules but would provide more specificity in zoning overlays. Key Outcomes - Case 021-25: Approved for rezoning to R2 (not R3 as originally requested). Motion by Dr. Rosenberg, second by Ms. Warren. Vote: unanimous (all present). - Case 022-25: Approved for rezoning from R1 to R2 as requested. Motion by Ms. Clue Michael, second by Dr. Rosenberg. Vote: unanimous. - Case 023-25: Approved preliminary plat with revised outlot and detention pond. Motion by Mr. Spruce, second by Ms. Harrington. Vote: unanimous. - Adjournment: Motion by Ms. Clue Michael, second by Ms. Warren. Vote: unanimous.

The Joplin City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 12:00 PM (UTC) with all nine council members present. The meeting included a presentation on a recycling education and outreach grant, public hearings on two rezoning requests, and approval of several ordinances including an emergency measure for utility relocation. The council also discussed ongoing infrastructure projects and voted to enter closed session. Presentations - Recycling REO Grant Update: Tony Ruban (city staff) and Julie Davis (Burns & McDonald) presented results of a three-year EPA-funded recycling education campaign. Key findings: Joplin's overall diversion rate is 21%, below the national average of 32%. Only 10% of residents subscribe to curbside recycling. A community survey (240+ responses) found that confusion, lack of awareness, and cost are primary barriers. Trust in the city as an information source is high. Recommended strategies include building trust, increasing program awareness, and using consistent branding. A marketing firm RFP is currently out. Public Hearings & Testimony - Council Bill 2025-272 (2602 S Wall Avenue): Rezoning from R-1 to C-1 for a daycare property. Chase Craft (property representative) spoke in favor, noting the daycare has operated for 15-20 years and the new owner seeks compliance. No opposition. The council approved on first reading (9-0). - Council Bill 2025-273 (4106 E Zora Street): Rezoning from R-1 to C-1 for Toro Construction to use a remodeled home as an office. Christian Hamlin (Toro Construction) spoke in favor, stating no outdoor storage of heavy equipment. Council discussed potential for future more intensive uses, but staff confirmed C-1 restrictions. Approved on first reading (9-0). Discussion Items - Recycling Program: Council members asked about bundling curbside recycling with trash service, sign-up at community events, and enforcement of Republic's contractual recycling education obligations. Staff noted that bin provision could boost participation to 70% and that a marketing plan is under development. - Microsurfacing 2025 Project (CB 2025-122): Dan Johnson presented a $1.21 million contract with Microsurfacing Contractors LLC for residential street resurfacing. Council member Dr. Farnum raised concerns about loose aggregate scratching cars. Johnson explained that temporary loose rock is typical and that the contractor will be held to performance standards. - Emergency Ordinance for AT&T Relocation (CB 2025-130): $148,727.28 to relocate facilities for the Zora Street Phase 2 project. Approved as emergency. - Communications Tower Ground Lease (CB 2025-004): Agreement with JASCO 911 to construct a tower at the Black Cat facility to replace a structurally unsound tower on west 13th Street. Project cost $1.2 million, estimated completion spring 2026. - Microsoft Public Safety Software Support (CB 2025-614): $100,000+ annual payment for public safety and financial software, budgeted at same rate for third year. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda finalized and approved (9-0). - Council Bill 2025-130 (AT&T relocation) passed on emergency basis (9-0). - Council Bill 2025-004 (JASCO tower ground lease) passed on first reading (9-0). - Council Bill 2025-122 (microsurfacing) passed on first reading, advanced to second and third (9-0). - Council Bill 2025-126 (sewer service agreement for Briar Oaks Lane) passed on first reading, advanced to second and third (9-0). - Council Bill 2025-614 (software support) passed on first reading, advanced to second and third (9-0). - Council voted unanimously (9-0) to enter closed session to discuss legal actions and real estate.

The Joplin City Council held an informal meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, featuring two departmental updates: the IT Department and the Parks and Recreation Department. Both presentations highlighted operational statistics, ongoing initiatives, and future plans. No votes were taken; council members asked clarifying questions. Discussion Items - IT Department Update (presented by Mark Morse, IT Director) – The department, formed in 1999 and fully staffed, supports approximately 550–600 users across the city. Key initiatives include completing a Voice-over-IP upgrade, upgrading CCTV cameras at City Hall, and planning an Esri Advantage program for GIS coordination. The department manages 53 software systems with a budget increase to $1.2 million due to new HR, insurance, and asset management systems. Councilman Copeland inquired about creating an assistant IT director position. City Manager Edwards responded that a new position is needed and that funding may be available in the upcoming budget. - Parks and Recreation Department Update (presented by Paul Bloomberg, Director) – The department employs over 200 seasonal workers and maintains 24 parks, 17 miles of trails, a golf course, pools, and more. 2024 statistics include nearly 15,000 Facebook followers, 33,600 rounds of golf at Schifferdecker, 50,000 pool visitors, and a 22% decrease in security reports due to the park ranger division. Current projects: Dora bike park remains on schedule for spring 2026; Ewert splash park and ice ribbon construction bids were opened June 26, with a guaranteed maximum price expected soon, to be presented to council for first reading. An old little league field will be demolished and turned into green space pending future plans. Key Outcomes - The city manager indicated that funding for an assistant IT director position will likely be considered in the upcoming budget. - The Ewert splash park and ice ribbon project will be presented at the next council meeting for first reading. - The former little league field (Gabe Street) will be demolished by July 21, 2025, and temporarily converted to green space.

This meeting of the city board addressed multiple properties on the agenda for progress reports and possible demolition hearings. The board voted to continue most items to the July 25, 2025 meeting, with extensive discussion on the status of securing 1220 Northwest Murphy Boulevard, including contractor progress, homeless encampment issues, and potential next steps. A clerical error regarding property addresses was corrected. Discussion Items - 115 North Galena Avenue (Item 3118): The board extended the item to July 25, 2025, for a progress report and demolition hearing. A motion was made by Mr. Windsor and seconded by Ms. Harrington; all voted in favor. - 1220 Northwest Murphy Boulevard (Item 3116): Extensive discussion on securing the property. Real estate representative Jim reported that contractor Cotton Construction began work on June 23, 2025, after delays obtaining materials and rain. Approximately 8–10 working days remain. The board reviewed a stack of progress photos. Chief Building Official Brian noted that quarter-inch OSB (oriented strand board) was being used instead of the required half-inch exterior-grade plywood. He also reported that a fence had been driven through and homeless individuals were entering the property. The realtor stated the lender's asking price is $280,000 (foreclosure mortgage was $2.8 million), and there is a potential buyer (Biotech). The building contains approximately 3,000 tons of insulation material. A motion to extend to July 25, 2025, for progress report and demolition hearing was made by Mr. Duncan, seconded by Mr. Windsor; all voted in favor. - 230 South Oak Avenue (Item 3122): Owner Steve Cope (former building inspector) pulled a permit on June 26, 2025, with a project valuation of $5,000 for repairs to the shed and main structure. The board noted he was not present and extended the item to July 25, 2025, for progress report and demolition hearing. Motion by Mr. Duncan, seconded by Mr. Windsor; all in favor. - 2408 West 4th Street (Item 3112): Owners presented a floor plan that lacked sufficient detail (no dimensions, mechanical locations). The board continued the item to July 25, 2025, for progress report and demolition hearing. Motion by Mrs. Harrington, seconded by Mr. Windsor; all in favor. - 1248 South Roosevelt Avenue (Item 3117): Mr. Forrest is working on replacing broken windows and yard ordinance issues. No concrete plans yet; this is the third continuance. The board expressed concern and encouraged the owner to attend the next meeting. Motion to extend to July 25, 2025, by Mr. Windsor, seconded by Mr. Duncan; all in favor. - 1909 West 15th Street (Item 3104): Property owner Mr. Perry dug a footing that is holding water; no other progress after 12 appearances on the agenda (over a year). The board discussed setting the item for a demolition hearing and directed staff to prepare publication. Motion to extend to July 25, 2025, for progress report and demolition hearing by Mr. Windsor, seconded by Mr. Duncan; all in favor. - 405 West 2nd / 126 South Pearl (Item 3123) and 701 South McKinley (Item 3124): The board corrected a numbering error: previously voted on Item 3123 for 701 South McKinley, but that address belongs to Item 3124. A motion to rescind the earlier motion was made by Mr. Windsor, seconded by Mr. Brown, and carried. Then a new motion to extend Item 3124 (701 South McKinley) to July 25, 2025, was made and seconded; all in favor. For Item 3123 (405 West 2nd and 126 South Pearl), the property burned in January 2025; the owner received insurance payout but did not qualify for ARPA funds. The board extended it to July 25, 2025, for progress report and demolition hearing. Motion by Mr. Windsor, seconded by Mr. Brown; all in favor. Key Outcomes - All discussed properties were continued to the July 25, 2025, meeting for progress reports and potential demolition hearings. - The board corrected a clerical error by rescinding a prior motion and re-voting on the correct item. - For 1909 West 15th Street, staff was directed to prepare for a possible demolition hearing at the next meeting. - The realtor for 1220 Northwest Murphy Boulevard agreed to file a new trespass affidavit, post no-trespassing signs, and explore hiring off-duty police for security. - No motions for demolition were made at this meeting; all items remain under progress review.

The Joplin City Council convened on Monday, June 16, 2025, for its regular meeting. The agenda included a public works update, two public hearings on community improvement district boundary changes, approval of several emergency ordinances, and a contentious vote on a deer hunting ordinance. All votes were 9-0 unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was finalized with no comments from council or the public and approved unanimously (9-0). Specific consent items were not read into the record. Public Comments & Testimony - Citizens Requests & Petitions: Shauna Fisher and Christopher Jones were called but did not approach the podium; no testimony was given. - Public Hearing CB 2025-523 (Remove Herman Lumber from CID): David Enke of Herman Lumber spoke in favor, stating the company was at a competitive disadvantage compared to big-box stores not subject to the CID tax. He thanked Woodsonia for working to resolve the issue. No opposition was voiced. - Public Hearing CB 2025-524 (Add Properties to CID): David Geisler, attorney for Home Depot, expressed support for adding Menards, citing the need for a level playing field. Julia Woolmack, owner of Autotronics, opposed her property's inclusion, saying she never consented and that her business generates no sales tax. After developer Drew Snyder produced her signed consent and explained the property's role in meeting the 51% ownership threshold, she withdrew her complaint. Presentation: Public Works Department Update - Director Johnson reported: the airport's new RFSRE building is in use; two passenger loading bridges are planned; five snow events used 25,000 gallons of anti-ice and 800 tons of salt; street sweepers covered 3,300 miles; 110 trouble calls and 6,000 utility locates were handled; wastewater treatment processed 3.5 billion gallons at Turkey Creek and 2.35 billion gallons at Shoal Creek in 2024; the trolley relaunched in February with 8,331 riders; MAPS ridership hit a 29-month high of 4,184 in April; recycling averaged 41.3 tons per month; a shred event collected 6,568 pounds of paper; and engineering is implementing new software. Council members asked about DNR funding for Diamond's sewer connection, the mileage of sewer (430) and lane miles (800+), and the impact of the wet spring on construction and mowing. Reports & Communications - Public Information Officer Lynn Onstott announced: NOAA weather radios will have a brief interruption through June 18; a Friends and Family CPR class on June 25; the JATSO transportation survey; city office closure for Juneteenth; and trash pickup reminders for July 4th. Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-008: Proposition Action Implementation and Oversight Committee requested a two-year extension. Co-chair Mr. O'Brien emphasized the need for continued citizen oversight of the 48-point initiative. The council approved the extension. - Council Bill 2025-527 (Budget Amendment): Staff explained the amendment increases revenues by $229,263 and expenditures by $4,311,874, reflecting grants, seasonal wages, utility costs, and other items. Council members noted the amendment aligns with state auditor recommendations for more timely adjustments. - Council Bill 2025-125 (Elevator Modernization): The mayor advised against moving the contract to an emergency basis, and the council agreed. A $636,348 contract with Sunrise Elevator was approved on first reading. Staff will communicate with the vendor to begin ordering materials. - Council Bill 2025-003 (Hunting Ordinance): On second and third reading, Councilor Ditarr expressed initial concerns about the age limit (16) but supported the ordinance after confirming restrictions requiring an 18-year-old accompaniment. Councilor Shaw voted against, stating the city should have explored other options more thoroughly. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 9-0. - Resolution 2025-008 approved 9-0 (extend committee for 2 years). - CB 2025-523 (remove Herman Lumber) approved 9-0 on emergency basis. - CB 2025-524 (add properties to CID) approved 9-0 on emergency basis. - CB 2025-525 (sale of 916 Jackson Ave) approved 9-0 on emergency basis. - CB 2025-526 (sale of 1210 Iowa Ave) approved 9-0 on emergency basis. - CB 2025-527 (budget amendment) approved 9-0 on emergency basis. - CB 2025-612 and CB 2025-613 (police grants for mental health and de-escalation) approved 9-0 each on emergency basis. - CB 2025-125 (elevator) passed unanimously on first reading, advanced to second and third reading. - CB 2025-127 (Willow Branch 7th Street engineering) passed 9-0 on first reading. - CB 2025-128 (Grand Falls Trail design) passed 9-0 on first reading. - Amended CB 2025-003 (hunting) passed 6-3 on second and third reading. - All board and commission appointments (reappointments and new) approved 9-0. - Council directed staff to address truck jake brake complaints on Newman Road and to review safety measures at city park construction sites. The meeting adjourned after a report that aid was sent to St. Louis following its tornado.

The Joplin City Council met informally on June 16, 2025, to receive a financial update from Finance Director Leslie Hawes, a quarterly update from Downtown Joplin Alliance Executive Director Lori Hahn, and to make numerous appointments to boards and commissions. Financial Information Update - Finance Director Leslie Hawes presented the June sales tax information. Sales tax receipts for June were up compared to June 2024, and year-to-date sales tax is up 1.4%, though slightly below budget. Use tax for June was down 3% compared to June 2024, but year-to-date use tax is up 6%. Marijuana tax revenue was up for the month, partly due to timing. General fund operating revenue is $96,943 over year-to-date budget, while operating expenditures are $1.2 million under budget (much attributed to timing). One-time revenue is slightly under budget, and one-time expenditures are under budget. Overall net gain is ahead of budget, but timing factors are significant. Council member Cobble requested that future reports include projected growth/decline targets for comparison; Hawes agreed to update the format. Downtown Joplin Alliance Quarterly Update - Lori Hahn provided updates on downtown properties: Holcroft (8 condos, 2 apartments) at Fourth and Virginia continues development with pre-selling; Pearl Brothers (doctor's office and pharmacy) work expected to begin August; US Bank building at Fourth and Maine is for sale with multiple parties interested; Carnegie building continues cleanup, windows boarded, environmental report received; state received a new submission on the depot property. Pennington Drug Company at 512 Virginia received two historic preservation awards. Beautification efforts include clean team volunteer groups, Freeman day of service, new downtown banners, and city staff planting flowers. The new business directory is live on the Downtown Joplin Alliance website, categorized by eat/shop/play. Ongoing events: Third Thursday (18th season, 146 vendors expected), Wine Share (first Friday), Empire Market updates (new staff Leanne with Fayetteville experience, produce coming slowly due to rain, completion of ARPA project bathrooms, paving, West Pavilion roof, walk-in cooler/freezer connected to Newton kitchen). Staff attended National Main Street Conference in Philadelphia; strategic planning session June 26; upcoming state conference in St. Charles. Council member Carlin asked about US Bank building contract (fell through) and depot submission review (city represented by Troy). Board and Commission Appointments - The council made numerous appointments via nominations and votes. Key discussions included residency requirements for the Airport Board (majority must be Joplin residents, but some argued for regional representation) and whether to prioritize new volunteers versus experienced members. All votes were recorded. Key Outcomes - ADA Board (3 seats): Carol Eck, Callie Sweet, and Linda Tucker each appointed 9-0. - Airport Board (2 seats): Thomas Christiansen appointed to first seat (6-3 over Harvey Hutchison). Second seat: After a paper ballot narrowed the field, Tom Robertson was appointed (5-0 electronic majority over Harvey Hutchison, Jeremy Jadwin, and David Weaver). - Board of Health Physician: Dr. Safo appointed 9-0. - Building Board of Appeals (1 seat): Rob O'Brien appointed (5-4 over Jayla Beckham). - CVB Advisory Board – Hotel position: Ethan Tresmer appointed 9-0. - Historic Preservation Board (2 seats): Diane Reed Adams appointed (5-4 over Michael Gregory and Hannah Provin); Hannah Provin appointed (5-4 over Michael Gregory). - JRC Board (1 seat): Bethany McKenzie appointed (5-4 over Thomas Ross). - JSA Board (1 seat): James Weber appointed 9-0. - Parks and Recreation Board (2 seats): Heather Ogden appointed (8-1 over Drew Roy); Drew Roy appointed (8-1) after Christina Williams withdrew her nomination to instead apply for Solid Waste Commission. - Planning and Zoning Board (1 seat): Crystal Harrington appointed (7-2 over Clayton Schilling). - Solid Waste Advisory Commission (1 seat): Christina Williams appointed 9-0. - Reappointments slate: Approved 9-0. - The council will ratify all appointments at the later formal session.

The Joplin City Council held a work session on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 5:45 PM. Three major agenda items were presented and discussed: the April 2024–March 2025 Visitor Profile Annual Report, an update on the Police Department's Co-Responder Unit (CRU), and a plan to upgrade the city website (Joplinmo.org). Council members expressed strong support for the co-responder program and directed staff to explore budget options for sustaining it, approved a care package for St. Louis following its May 2025 tornado, and received a thank-you letter from Carl Junction for storm assistance. Visitor Profile Annual Report - Joseph St. Germain and James Rendell of Downs & St. Germain Research presented findings from a year-long study (April 2024 – March 2025). Over 2,000 surveys were conducted via intercept and QR codes at various locations. - Key statistics: Visitors spent over $290 million directly in Joplin, generating a total economic impact of over $408 million. The city welcomed nearly 1.1 million visitors; 46% were day trippers, 36% stayed in paid accommodations (hotels, vacation rentals), and 18% visited friends/relatives. - Occupancy in hotels was 61.7%, average daily rate $110, revenue per available room (RevPAR) $68 – all up year-over-year (4.6%, 7.3%, and 12.1% respectively). - Top visitor origins: Missouri (30%), Kansas (19%), Oklahoma (12%), Arkansas (7%). Top reason for visiting: visiting friends/relatives (30%), sporting events (23%), special occasions/events (20%). - Visitor satisfaction: 89% satisfied/very satisfied; 57% said they will definitely return. - Council discussed underrepresentation of casino visits (only 8% in attractions visited) due to inability to survey on casino premises. Mayor noted Joplin is the largest casino market in Missouri but marketing is aimed at St. Louis. Co-Responder Unit Update - Chief Pearson introduced the three full-time civilian co-responders (funded by Ozark Center at zero cost to the city) and described the program's goals: reducing police time on behavioral health calls, preventing injury, and connecting people to services. - The unit has been operational since October 2024, working Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 9 PM. They have a vehicle and office funded by a $50,000 grant from the Joplin Philanthropic Society. - Key statistics from seven months: 520 referrals, 80% successfully connected to services; cost-benefit projection shows potential savings of $950,000–$1.7 million from reduced hospitalizations and police time. - Dale Camp (Ozark Center) and Holly Triple Day (Springfield CRU lead) presented evidence-based benefits: 24% reduction in arrest likelihood, 42% decrease in emergency psychiatric costs, 57% reduction in ER visits. - Council members praised the program. Councilman Coppel requested staff prepare budget options for sustaining the CRU, including emergency housing and transportation funds, for the upcoming budget session. Councilman Jackson suggested exploring a partnership with a local shelter for emergency beds. The chief noted the need for expanded hours and more manpower. - Councilman Copeland shared a personal story about a crisis incident years ago and expressed pride in the program. Website Upgrade Plan (Joplinmo.org) - Drew (Director of Marketing Communications) and Tony Otero presented a plan to replace the current Civic Plus website with a new, cloud-based headless CMS. Extensive research included analytics, surveys, department interviews, and competitive analysis. - The current site is outdated and failing in user experience, visual design, and content accuracy. The new site will aim for excellence in content, user experience, visual design, CMS platform, and security, with software integrations as a desired feature to be phased in. - The plan is to go out for bid in the coming weeks, select a vendor, and launch by May 2026. The budget estimate is $500,000 (a wild guess), pending RFP responses. The new system will allow eventual seamless integration with permitting and payment systems. - Council expressed support and asked about infrastructure requirements; the cloud-based solution will not require on-site server upgrades. Key Outcomes - Council unanimously supported the co-responder unit and directed staff to prepare budget options for possible city funding of emergency housing, bus tickets, or other needs. No formal vote was taken. - Council approved Mayor's request to send a care package and thank-you letter to St. Louis emergency operations following its May 2025 tornado. - The city manager acknowledged a thank-you letter from Carl Junction for storm assistance. - No formal votes were taken on the visitor report or website plan; both were informational. Council will review the website RFP results and budget amendment at a future meeting.

The Joplin Zoning and Planning Commission met on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM to consider two rezoning requests. Both cases were approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned after the votes. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved by a voice vote (motion by Ms. Clue Michael, second by Ms. Phillips; all ayes, none opposed). Discussion Items - Case 019-25 – Rezone from R1 (Single Family Residential) to C1 (Neighborhood Commercial) at 2602 Southwall Avenue Applicant: Turtle Turtle LLC. Representative Randall Kraft (2701 Byrd Avenue) explained the rezoning is to formalize the property's use, which has been operated as a daycare for at least 20 years. Change in ownership prompted the application. No questions from the commission; no public testimony for or against. - Case 020-25 – Rezone from R1 (Single Family Residential) to C1 (Neighborhood Commercial) at 4106 East Azora Street Applicant: Toro Construction. Representative Christian Hamlin (4106 East Or Street, Joplin) requested rezoning for a small office space. In response to a commissioner's question, Mr. Hamlin confirmed the intended use is a small office to work out of. No other questions; no public testimony for or against. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve Case 019-25 (motion by Mr. Landis, second by Dr. Rosenberg): All commissioners present voted aye; none opposed. The rezoning was approved. - Motion to approve Case 020-25 (motion by Dr. Rosenberg, second by Mr. Landis): All commissioners present voted aye; none opposed. The rezoning was approved. - The commission noted both cases will be presented to the city council on Monday, July 7, 2025. - Meeting adjourned by motion (Ms. Clue Michael, second Ms. Warren) with all ayes.

The Joplin City Council held its regular meeting on June 2, 2025, at 12:15 PM (UTC). Seven council members were present (Mr. Bard, Mr. Koppel, Dr. Farnham, Mr. Jackson, Mr. Lawson, Mr. Shaw, and Mayor Cortez), with two absent (Ms. Carlin and Mr. Ditarr, excused). The meeting included presentations, public hearings, and votes on several ordinances and resolutions. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda as finalized, which included routine approvals and unanimous actions. The vote passed 7-0 with two absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Evans clarified that the city's annual financial audit (presented by AGH) is different from the state audit requested by citizens. He noted the state audit has been pending for 15 months and provides a broader scope of accountability. - Maurice Philson (824 Vermont Ave) requested a 25 mph speed limit sign on Campbell Parkway from St. Louis Avenue to 7th Street, citing dangerous speeding and concern for children. He noted no current speed limit signs. - Audi Perez (1717 Vermont Ave) supported Mr. Philson's request, asking for speed bumps or signs to protect children playing outside. The council directed staff to review the area for enforcement and possible traffic calming measures. Discussion Items - Presentation of Matthew Fry, President & CEO of Freeman Health System – Fry introduced himself, outlined his background, and discussed Freeman's strategic priorities: quality improvement (aiming for 4-star CMS rating in 4 years), patient experience, and community engagement. He expressed commitment to the Joplin Regional Alliance for Health and Missouri Southern's health education expansion. Council members welcomed him and asked about city partnerships to attract healthcare talent. - Annual Audit Presentation – Jonathan Nyberger (AGH) presented the 2024 audit results. The city received an unmodified opinion (highest), with a material weakness noted regarding a prior-year restatement of capital assets and accounts payable. No adjustments were required. The police and fire pension plan funded status improved from 79.5% (2023) to 90.1% (2024) due to the special sales tax. Finance Director Leslie Hawes also reported on the JSA audit and TIF updates. - Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Update – Travis Stevens reported on economic development projects, including a new 50-job attraction project (outside city limits), remediation of 70 acres at Crossroads Business Park, and a new data tool (Placer AI) to track workforce and visitor patterns. He noted that 25% of RFIs can be responded to due to site constraints, and Liberty is working on power infrastructure improvements. - Public Information Office Report – Lynn announced upcoming events: free tire drop-off (June 7, 9 am-1 pm), a teen driving course (June 24), and holiday closures (Juneteenth, July 4) with no trash schedule changes. - Citizen Requests – The council heard from Maurice Philson and Audi Perez about speeding on Campbell Parkway. Staff were directed to assess the area for enforcement and potential traffic calming. - Council Bill 2025-003 – Bow Hunting Ordinance – After extensive debate, the council amended the ordinance to lower the minimum age from 21 to 16 (with adult supervision for under 16), align hunter safety requirements with the Missouri Department of Conservation, require a unique ID number on arrows for those without a hunter safety number, and allow retrieval of deer from adjoining property with permission. The amended ordinance passed on first reading (5-2). - Council Bill 2025-109 – Trolley Wheelchair Lifts – The council approved a $55,502 purchase order for replacement wheelchair lifts on the large trolley, with 80% reimbursed by FTA. The trolley service has grown to 2,550 monthly riders. - Council Bill 2025-124 – Zora Street Improvements Phase 2 – The council approved a $2.84 million contract with Emory Sapp & Sons for road construction (12-foot lanes, 10-foot shoulders) from the roundabout east to 249 right-of-way. The project came in under the engineer's estimate. Key Outcomes - Votes Passed (7-0 with two absent): - Consent agenda finalized. - Council Bill 2025-270 (rezoning 1148 S Pennsylvania Ave from M2 to R3) – approved on first reading. - Resolution 2025-007 (special use permit for duplexes at 3105 Wisconsin Ave) – approved on first reading. - Case 018-25 (Vita Nova tiny home village site plan at 1201 S Byers Ave) – approved on first reading (6 in favor, 1 abstention). - Emergency ordinances for sale of six surplus parcels (Council Bills 517-522) – all approved. - Council Bill 2025-109 (trolley wheelchair lifts) – approved on first reading, advanced to second and third. - Council Bill 2025-124 (Zora Street improvements) – approved on first reading, advanced to second and third. - Vote Passed (5-2 with two absent): - Council Bill 2025-003 (bow hunting ordinance) – approved on first reading as amended, will return for second and third reading. - Directives: - Staff to review speed limit enforcement and traffic calming options on Campbell Parkway (near Vermont Ave). - Councilman Coppel requested inspections of Fairview Cemetery for dead trees, update on senior center ADA parking, and repair of an alley on Roosevelt between 8th and 10th.