Public Meetings - Joplin, Missouri

The Historic Preservation Commission of Joplin, Missouri, met on July 16, 2024, at 5:00 PM. Chair Jill Hallbach called the meeting to order. All commissioners were present except Mr. Miller, who was excused. The commission approved the minutes of June 18, 2024, and discussed training opportunities, the future of Memorial Hall, and a grant application for the North Heights survey. The meeting adjourned after a motion. Consent Calendar - Excuse Commissioner: A motion by Mr. Huff, seconded by Dr. Fisher, to excuse Mr. Miller from the meeting was approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of June 18, 2024, were approved by a motion from Ms. Hans, seconded by Mr. Huff, with all in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - No public hearings were held, and no public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Budget Update: Staff reported that the conference and seminar budget was exceeded, but permission was granted to use credit cards. The city joined Missouri Main Street for one year, receiving a discount. Several commissioners plan to attend the Missouri Main Street Conference at the end of July. - Training and Workshops: - Realtor Training: Scheduled for October 23, 2024, at Ozark Gateway Association of Realtors (OGAR). Two sessions: a 90-minute overview (10:00–11:30 AM) for all OGAR members, and an in-depth session (1:00–2:30 PM) for trainer-trainers. Staff is seeking a lunch sponsor. Commissioners may attend for training credit. - CLG Forum: The Certified Local Government Forum is scheduled for October 25, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Staff noted that an online option may be available. The commission has no remaining budget for hotel stays, but staff will attend. - Memorial Hall: Extensive discussion on the future of Memorial Hall, a local landmark. The city council is considering an RFQ for a park design that would include demolition. Commissioners expressed strong support for exploring alternatives before demolition, such as selling the property with a performance bond. They discussed: - Sending a coordinated email campaign to all council members, with a template drafted by Chair Hallbach and staff. - Forming a committee of 25 registered voters to potentially initiate a ballot measure if the city passes an ordinance for demolition. - Making a formal presentation to the council as a commission. - Commissioners noted that the building is structurally sound and that the city has not yet attempted to sell it. The architect's report estimated $5.5 million for demolition, but commissioners argued that rehabilitation and tax credits (historic, brownfield) could be viable. - North Heights Survey Resolution: Staff reported that the CLG grant application for the North Heights survey was denied due to high competition and scoring changes. The resolution before the commission (2024-01) authorizes reapplication for the next fiscal year. The pre-application is due August 16, 2024. The total project cost is estimated at $36,000 (60% grant, 40% local match). The commission discussed the need for public engagement and potential co-sponsorship with the North Heights Neighborhood Group. - Building Codes and Inspections: A brief discussion occurred about the challenges of inconsistent building inspections and the city's regulatory environment. No formal action was taken. Key Outcomes - Excused Commissioner: Mr. Miller was excused for the meeting. - Approved Minutes: June 18, 2024, minutes were approved. - Resolution 2024-01: Passed unanimously (motion by Mr. Huff, second by Dr. Fisher) to reapply for the CLG grant for the North Heights survey. - Memorial Hall Action Plan: The commission agreed to: 1. Develop a bullet-point template email for all commissioners to send to the city council, urging a sale attempt before demolition. 2. Each commissioner will identify 2–3 potential members for a committee of 25, in case a ballot initiative is needed. 3. Consider a formal presentation to the council (subject to the two-week submission deadline). - Next Steps: Staff will coordinate the email template and continue outreach to the North Heights neighborhood group. The CLG pre-application will be submitted by August 16.

The Zoning and Planning Commission of the City of Joplin met on Monday, July 8, 2024, to consider two cases: a special use permit for a home beauty salon and a declaration of surplus property. The meeting included roll call, approval of minutes, public hearing procedures, and votes on both items. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 026-24 (Home Beauty Salon): Applicant Jennifer Hicks proposed a special use permit to operate a home beauty salon at 3502 South Park Avenue. She stated she had spoken to neighbors on the north (vacant rental) and south (Beverly, who was in favor) and to the east neighbor (who expressed no opposition and jokingly suggested a gate). Off-street parking for up to four vehicles was noted. Opposition: Rhonda Fanning (address: 2058 South Loma Linda Drive, property owner of 3420 South Park Avenue) opposed the permit. She argued that the neighborhood is a quiet, residential area where commercial use would devalue properties, set a precedent for commercial intrusion, increase traffic and parking congestion, and alter the character of the area. She stated they had not been personally approached by the applicant. She also expressed concerns about proposed outbuilding and barking dogs from the applicant’s property. Her husband, James Fanning, was also present as a joint property owner. Discussion Items - Case 026-24: The commission discussed parking, signage, hours, and the proposed 12x20 foot accessory building. City staff (Tyler) clarified that home occupations are permitted as accessory uses; the special use permit is intended to limit disturbances. Standard conditions were read: permit permanent, one hairdressing chair, no other assistants, off-street parking for two additional spaces (beyond the two required for the dwelling), hours restricted to 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday–Friday, appointment only, one non-illuminated sign (maximum 2 sq ft, within 10 ft of property line and not more than 6 ft above grade), compliance with cosmetology board and fire safety codes. The building must be residential in character and subordinate. Commissioner Dr. Rosenberg expressed concern about the separate outbuilding, stating it was a “deal breaker” unless surrounding neighbors supported it. Commissioner Phillips noted that home-based service businesses can operate quietly, as she has experienced. - Case 027-24 (Surplus Property): The city of Joplin requested declare 1201 South Byers Avenue surplus property. Staff explained it is an access parcel acquired from Jasper County; the city seeks to dispose of it to remove maintenance costs and return it to productive use. Commissioner Rosenberg commented the property is a liability and selling it would benefit the tax rolls. Key Outcomes - Case 026-24: Motion by Ms. Phillips to approve the special use permit and send to city council. Seconded by Ms. Klue Michael. Vote: 6 in favor, 1 opposed. Motion carried. The application will be presented to city council on August 5, 2024. - Case 027-24: Motion by Dr. Rosenberg to declare the property surplus and pass the case. Seconded by Ms. Warren. Unanimous vote (all ayes). Motion carried. This case will be presented to city council on July 15, 2024. - Adjournment: Motion by Ms. Phillips, seconded by Mr. Spruce. Unanimous approval.

This meeting of the Joplin Building Board of Appeals was held on June 28, 2024, at 15:15 UTC. The board reviewed multiple properties on the agenda, heard progress reports from property owners and contractors, and conducted dangerous building hearings for three properties, ordering demolitions for all three. The meeting also included extensions for several properties and a motion to reconsider a previous demolition order, which was denied. Consent Calendar - Excuse of Board Member Tucker: Mr. Tucker was excused due to a medical issue. Motion passed unanimously. - Approval of May Minutes: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 3068 – 1518 S. Sergeant Avenue: Owner reported that vinyl siding work has begun, with completion expected in approximately 60 days. The board extended the item to the July 26, 2024 meeting for a progress report and demolition hearing. - Item 2986 – 302 S. Connor Avenue: City inspector Dale provided an update: a fire sprinkler system is being installed (Marmick Fire), plumbing work is underway, and siding will start next week. A representative (Angie McGee) confirmed progress and stated completion is hoped within a couple of months (deadline October). The board extended to July 26, 2024. - Item 3056 – 217 S. Pearl Avenue: Elizabeth, on behalf of the owner, reported that quotes were obtained, down payments made, plumbing (MVP Plumbing) to start soon, electrical (Art Electrical) scheduled. Estimated completion by early September. Extended to July 26, 2024. - Item 3084 – 1828 W. 4th Street: Dennis Russell, prospective buyer, stated he is under contract (closing by July 26). Plans include roof repair and exterior clean-up. He was advised on permitting. Extended to July 26, 2024 for progress report. - Item 2990 – 801, 803, 805 W. 1st Street: Jeff Neal (Neal Group Construction) requested a three-month extension due to a fire that caused $400,000 in unexpected work and rising interest rates. He cited three positive developments: an owner now lives next door (improving security), Tom Walters (city planning) offered CHOTA funds for low-income housing, and a new state historic tax credit increase from 25% to 35% (effective August 28). The board granted a two-month extension to August 23, 2024, citing the need for concrete financing progress. - Item 3002 – 301 S. Winfield Avenue: Owner (via translator) reported roof completed, interior wall reinforcement done, waiting for electrician estimate. Power was disconnected due to safety issues. Board expressed concern over slow progress (20 meetings, nearly two years). Extended to July 26, 2024. - Item 3073 – 512 S. Cox Avenue: Owner reported plumbing and 95% electrical complete, awaiting HVAC and inspections. However, the permit is about to expire and there is a discrepancy about the plumber (Hook Plumbing claims no work done). Board extended the permit 30 days and continued the item to July 26, 2024 for progress report. - Item 3082 – 124 N. Maple Avenue: New owner (first meeting) stated he removed a homeless encampment, installed a back door, and intends to rehabilitate the property. He was reminded of required walkthroughs and the need to provide a clear timeline. Extended to July 26, 2024. - Item 3054 – 1624 W. 4th Street: Owner Matt Smith reported windows, doors, and fire-damaged framing completed; chimney removed; waiting on framing inspection to proceed. Noted progress but slow due to his HVAC business. Extended to July 26, 2024. - Motion to Reconsider (Item 3028 – 2621 S. Pearl Avenue – Slab): Attorney Jeremy Brown filed a notice of appeal and motion to reconsider the previous demolition order for the slab. He argued that under code, if a building can be repaired, it shall be ordered repaired (mandatory). Board members expressed frustration with lack of progress and previous misrepresentations. Motion denied. (Board member Wicklin abstained due to personal conflict.) - Dangerous Building Hearings: Three hearings were held for properties owned by J. Pearl Properties LLC (items 3026, 3027, 3071). The city presented evidence (photos, title searches, certified mail, publication). Neighbor testimony described the properties as eyesores and nuisances. Owner Jerry Brown (attorney) and the neighbor testified. - Item 3026 – 2611 S. Pearl Avenue (slab only): Slab poured March 2020; no progress for four years. Permit revoked earlier in meeting. Ordered demolished (6-0, Wicklin abstaining). - Item 3027 – 2617 S. Pearl Avenue (structure): Building framed four years ago, never had framing inspection. Some siding and repairs done recently but overall no significant progress. Permit revoked earlier. Ordered demolished (6-0, Wicklin abstaining). - Item 3071 – 1822 S. Indiana Avenue: Owner Marty Coss consented to demolition. Structure had termite damage, fire damage to outbuilding, and was posted as unfit. Ordered demolished unanimously (including outbuildings). - Item 3051 – (mentioned as ready for hearing but not heard): A property where a trailer is occupied and permits were not obtained. No action taken at this meeting. Key Outcomes - Extensions Granted: Items 3068, 2986, 3056, 3084, 2990 (2 months), 3002, 3073 (30-day permit extension), 3082, and 3054 all extended to the July 26, 2024 meeting (except 2990 to August 23, 2024). - Motion to Reconsider Denied: The order to demolish the slab at 2621 S. Pearl stands. - Demolitions Ordered: Items 3026 (slab), 3027 (structure), and 3071 (structure) declared dangerous and ordered demolished. Noted that for 3026 and 3027, board member Wicklin abstained. - Permits Revoked: Permits for items 3026 and 3027 were revoked prior to the dangerous building hearings. - No Action on Item 3051: Deferred pending further information. All extensions and demolition orders include a progress report and/or demolition hearing at the next meeting as specified.

The Joplin Historic Preservation Commission met on June 18, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. The meeting included routine approvals, discussion of upcoming training and workshops, and significant deliberation on the future of Memorial Hall, a local landmark. Commissioners also received updates on the Olivia preservation project and heard public comment opposing demolition of Memorial Hall. Consent Calendar - Excusal of Members: Motion by Mr. Bruckner, seconded by Dr. Mounts, to excuse Dr. Fisher, Ms. Hahn, Ms. Dietar, and Miss Frankowski. Approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (May 21, 2024): Motion by Dr. Mounts, seconded by Mr. Bruckner. Approved unanimously. - Budget: No changes reported. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle McCamish (Joplin resident): Expressed opposition to the potential demolition of Memorial Hall, stating it honors veterans and military. She urged the commission to preserve the building as a tourism asset and noted veterans are upset. She learned of the meeting by chance from a bulletin board. Discussion Items - Missouri Main Street Conference: Commissioners discussed low attendance. Most members could not attend. The need to meet annual training requirements (from CLG) was noted. An alternative online training, the "Camp Training" provided by the State Historic Preservation Office, was discussed; date to be distributed. Commissioner offered to attend both if scheduling allows. - Training & Workshops Update: A commissioner contacted Elizabeth Ross regarding a revised training proposal for Rosen. Waiting for a response. - Downtown Sign Workshop (June 26, 2024): The commission reviewed plans for a public workshop on June 26 at 5:00 p.m. (across the street at the main event). Thomas will give a 10-minute overview of the sign approval process, followed by Dave and Ben from Bostil Forge on the importance of good signage. Hank Miller has prepared mock-ups and visual examples. The workshop is targeted at downtown businesses but open to the public. - Memorial Hall: Commissioners discussed the city council’s 8-1 vote directing staff to create an ordinance for demolition. Memorial Hall is a local landmark, requiring a Certificate of Appropriateness from the commission before demolition. Questions arose about whether all reasonable efforts had been made to preserve the property (e.g., sale, alternative uses). Commissioner noted that only specific uses (museum, rock climbing) had been put to voters, not a general sale or reuse. Discussion of petition process (requires 15% of last election’s voters) to challenge any demolition ordinance. City clerk recommended for procedural details. The commission cannot take formal action on a discussion item, but members are free to act individually. It was agreed to keep Memorial Hall on future agendas. - Olivia Preservation Status: Update from a commissioner: Blue Haven has secured funding for the project. Crossland Construction is evaluating the project but faces challenges with historic tax credit requirements and unfamiliarity with specialized millwork. Commissioners urged involving historic preservation consultants to guide Crossland. The work is complex; the property is considered a top-tier historic asset. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or actions taken on Memorial Hall or Olivia; discussions were informational and for planning purposes. - Sign workshop proceeding as planned on June 26, 2024. - Memorial Hall will remain a discussion item at future meetings; commissioners encouraged public to contact city council and explore petition options. - Training requirements to be addressed by attending the Main Street Conference or alternative Camp Training; date to be sent to members. - Vicky's departure (staff member) noted; minutes will be handled by a new person.

The Joplin Planning and Zoning Commission met on June 10, 2024, at 4:00 PM. Commissioners present: Kimball, Phillips, Warren, Rosenberg, McCullough, Landis. A motion to excuse Ms. Phillips and Mr. Kimball was approved. The minutes from May 13, 2024, were approved unanimously. The commission then proceeded to three cases: a special use permit for a daycare, a request to vacate an alley (later withdrawn), and a rezoning request. Consent Calendar - Approval of the May 13, 2024, meeting minutes (motion by Mr. Landis, second by Mr. McCullough, unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made outside of the case-specific hearings. Discussion Items Case 024-24: Special Use Permit for Daycare Center Tanya Sprinkle, representing her daughter and applicant Leah Gurley, presented the proposal for Harmony Monastery Academy, a daycare and preschool for children ages six weeks to kindergarten. The facility would initially accommodate 56 students, expanding to 86 within 18 months, with a maximum capacity of 100. The building is a former church, and plans include installing a fence, building repairs, and compliance with safety and fire codes. Hours would be 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The applicant stated the neighborhood is suitable due to nearby commercial and community uses, and neighbors were generally agreeable. No opposition was expressed. The commission voted unanimously to approve the case, which will be forwarded to the city council. Case 025-24: Request to Vacate Alley Right-of-Way Tyler Warren (staff) noted that after consulting with the applicant, the recommendation changed to strike the case due to application items and public comments. Max DeCarlo of First Street Development asked the commission to vote to strike the item, citing the need to address neighbor concerns. A petition of protest had been received. The commission held a public hearing, with no speakers in favor or opposition, and then voted unanimously to strike the case. Case 021-24: Rezoning from M2 to R2 (Two-Family Residential) Jonathan Tassett, architect for owner SCJ Construction, proposed rezoning a property from M2 (heavy industrial) to R2 to allow subdivision into two parcels for a single-family home, consistent with the neighborhood's character and walkable neighborhood design codes. A protest petition was submitted with a protest percentage of 9.96%, below the 30% required to deny the case. The petitioner expressed a preference for single-family only. No public opposition was voiced. The commission voted unanimously to approve the rezoning. Key Outcomes - Case 024-24: Approved unanimously. The special use permit for Harmony Monastery Academy daycare will proceed to the city council on July 1, 2024. - Case 025-24: Stricken from the agenda unanimously. The applicant will continue discussions with neighbors. - Case 021-24: Approved unanimously. The property will be rezoned from M2 to R2. No old or new business was discussed. The meeting adjourned on a motion by Mr. Landis, second by Mr. McCullough, carried unanimously.

The meeting was called to order at 3:00 PM (15:00) on May 24, 2024. The board addressed multiple properties on the dangerous building list, including demolition hearings and progress reports. The meeting adjourned after approximately two hours. Consent Calendar - Roll call: Members present: Brown, Windsor, Wagner, Duncan, Wicklin. Tucker absent, excused. - Minutes from the April meeting approved with a minor correction. - Several items were continued to the June 28 meeting without objection: 2986 (302 S Connor), 2990 (801-805 W 1st), 3002 (301 S Winfield), 3033 (1010 W 3rd), 3056 (217 S Pearl), 3071 (1822 S Indiana), 3078 (1602 S Byers), 3079 (1402 S Street), 3080 (810 Missouri Ave). Also, 3074 (1711 W A) was released from the agenda after owner signed demolition consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Koontz, neighbor of 2621 S Pearl, expressed frustration with the prolonged delay and incomplete construction, stating the property is a blight and attracts animals. He also noted his own experience with city code enforcement regarding a retaining wall. - A neighbor (unnamed) spoke about 301 S Winfield, requesting more progress and a schedule from the owner. - Diana Flores (320 S Winfield) asked for an extension, citing family issues and plans to start work. - Kevin Hunter (219 N Pearl) requested an extension but the board voted to demolish. - Michael Hinbau (1202-1204 S Wall) asked for time to work with insurance, but the board ordered demolition. - Jeremy Brown (representing owner of 3026-3028 S Pearl) requested continuances; board voted to demolish one slab and continued the other two. - Ivy Iverson (220 N Byers) reported progress on plumbing and requested extension. - Dell Point Everton (1518 S Sergeant) reported progress (temp pole installed) and requested extension. - Contractor for 512 S Cox (item 3073) detailed extensive progress and requested extension. - Matt Smith (1624 W 4th) reported progress and requested extension. - City building inspectors Jeff Hadley and Jeff Oliver testified on dangerous conditions for the demolition hearings. Discussion Items - 219 N Pearl (3067): City presented evidence of fire damage and dangerous conditions. Owner Kevin Hunter asked for another extension but board voted 6-1 to demolish. - 2025 S Byers (3076): No one present; owner had agreed to demolition. Board voted unanimously to demolish. - 1202-1204 S Wall (3077): Owner Michael Hinbau present, asked for time. Board voted to demolish, noting the unsafe brick parapet. - 320 S Winfield (3063): Diana Flores requested extension. Board granted continuation to June 28, with expectation of progress. - 3026-3028 S Pearl (2621 S Pearl, 3028): After hearing evidence and testimony, board voted to demolish the slab at 2621 S Pearl. The other two properties (2611 and 2617 S Pearl) were continued to June 28. - Other properties: Nearly all remaining items were continued to the June 28 meeting for progress reports and potential demolition hearings. The board expressed concern about lack of progress on some properties (e.g., 2131 Nashville) and set it for possible demolition hearing next month. Key Outcomes - Demolition ordered (with votes): - 219 N Pearl (3067): Motion carried 6-1 (one opposed). - 2025 S Byers (3076): Unanimous motion carried. - 1202-1204 S Wall (3077): Unanimous motion carried. - 2621 S Pearl (3028): Motion carried (voice vote, no opposition recorded). - Continued to June 28, 2024 meeting: Items 3063, 3026, 3027, 3072, 3068, 3073, 3054, 2986, 2990, 3002, 3033, 3051, 3056, 3071, 3078, 3079, 3080. - Released from agenda: 1711 W A Street (3074) after owner signed demolition consent. - Next steps: The city will prepare for demolition of the four properties ordered demolished. The board expects progress reports and possibly demolition hearings for continued items at the next meeting on June 28, 2024.

The Historic Preservation Commission met on May 21, 2024, at 5:01 PM. The meeting began with roll call and the approval of minutes with a correction. The commission discussed several upcoming events and training initiatives, including a realtor workshop, a neon sign workshop, and options for commissioner training. No public hearings were held. Consent Calendar - Excuse Members: Motion to excuse Mr. Huff, Mr. Bruckner, and Dr. Fisher from the meeting passed unanimously. - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved with a correction to the name "Connect to Culture" (no spaces). Motion by Dr. Mounts, seconded by Miss Titar, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Council Presentation Update: Staff reported a positive reception from the City Council, with comments from Gary Shaw regarding early historic preservation efforts and coloring books for schools. A potential bike tour collaboration with Bikewalk Joplin was mentioned for future Preservation Month activities. - Realtor Training Workshop: The subcommittee reported progress on a realtor workshop planned for October. The Ogar building will host the event, with Elizabeth Rosen as a potential speaker. The morning session will be a general seminar, and the afternoon will target the realtor leadership team for deeper training. A survey was sent to assess knowledge gaps. The budget includes $5,000 for the speaker; staff will seek additional quotes to document fair cost. - Huff Workshop: Progress on a workshop with Mr. Huff has been slow; likely not to occur this year. Alternative local contractors with historic preservation experience may be brought in to assist. - Neon Signs / Downtown Now Event: A downtown signage workshop is scheduled for June 26th, 5:00-6:30 PM, at 611 South Main. Speakers from Fossil Forge (Lee's Summit) will discuss best practices for downtown signage. Staff plans to create mock-ups of sign applications according to city standards. Discussion included possible assistance from sign shops or using library laser cutters. - Commissioner Training Options: Staff proposed that commissioners consider attending the Missouri Main Street Conference (July 29-31 in Kansas City) instead of the Missouri Preservation Conference, due to a preservation track and location concerns. The CLG Camp training in Jefferson City is also an option. Staff will gather details on all three options and send to commissioners. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved with correction (unanimous). - Realtor workshop planning to proceed with October target; staff to secure additional bids for speaker. - Huff workshop deferred; alternative resources to be explored. - Downtown signage event confirmed for June 26; staff to develop mock-ups. - Commissioner training options to be circulated via email; no final decision. - Adjournment at the end of business.

The Joplin Zoning and Planning Commission met on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM CT. The meeting was called to order with roll call. Present: Ms. Warren, Mr. Kimball, Ms. Phillips, Mr. McCullough, Mr. Landis. Dr. Rosenberg was excused. The commission adopted minutes from the previous meeting and reviewed multiple rezoning, annexation, and special use permit requests. Consent Calendar - Motion to excuse Dr. Rosenberg: passed unanimously. - Motion to accept minutes from last meeting: passed unanimously. - Public hearing procedures were read into the record. - The commission accepted into evidence the 2012 Comprehensive Plan, Development Code, and related city documents. The following cases were struck without discussion: - Case 014-24 (voluntary annexation) – struck. - Case 015-24 (rezoning from R1 to R3) – struck. - Case 021-24 (rezoning from M2 to R2) – struck due to an error in legal advertisement; will be re-advertised for June. Public Comments & Testimony - Case 016-24 (R1 to C1, 3105 S. Wisconsin Ave.): Steve Williams (2601 Wisconsin Ave.) spoke in favor, stating he wants to operate a four-court indoor pickleball facility for seniors. Sally Robinson (2430 N. Indiana Ave.) also spoke in support. - Case 018-24 (R1 to C3, 108 N. St. Louis Ave.): Damian Tirable (48 Briarwood Dr.) and Jeremy Canada (1625 Apricot Dr.) spoke in favor, representing Blackstone Gastro Pub. They plan to demolish an existing home and develop the lot for outdoor activities (gazebo, pickleball, cornhole, horseshoes) and additional parking. - Case 019-24 (alley vacation, same location): The same applicants spoke in favor, seeking to vacate the alley right-of-way to allow full use of the property while preserving utility easements. - Case 020-24 (R1 to R2, SW of S. McCoy Ave & W. 23rd St.): Joel Standford (423 E. 4th St.) spoke in favor, proposing to build four duplexes (2-bedroom, 2-bath, 1-car garage) to supply moderately affordable housing. - Case 022-24 (special use permit for dog salon/kennel, 407 N. Shifferdecker Ave.): Shelly and Nathan Jansen (2908 W. 17th St.) spoke in favor, wanting to add a luxury pet boarding and doggy daycare facility to their existing pet grooming salon. - Case 023-24 (special use permit for coffee shop, 204 N. Jackson Ave.): The applicant (Bearded Lady Coffee Co.) withdrew the case. Susan Back (4530 S. Pearl St.) spoke as a church member, expressing support for preserving the historic building through a special use permit, but staff clarified that the permit would be specific to the applicant. No speakers opposed any case. Discussion Items - Case 016-24: Commission questioned whether the property matched the map and asked about future use. Applicant confirmed a four-court indoor pickleball facility. Approved. - Case 018-24: Commission asked about demolition of the existing home and parking plans. Applicant confirmed demolition and existing parking across the street. Approved. - Case 019-24: Commission clarified that the vacation is right-of-way only, not utility easements. No permanent structures can be placed in the utility easement. Applicant confirmed understanding. Approved. - Case 020-24: Commission asked about access (common road from W. 23rd St.) and orientation of duplexes (facing each other). Approved. - Case 021-24: Staff explained that the legal description advertised in the Globe was incorrect; the case will be re-advertised for the June agenda without an additional application fee. Commission struck the case. - Case 022-24: Commission asked no questions. Approved and sent to city council under a resolution (special use permits go to council). - Case 023-24: Staff reported the applicant withdrew due to recent complications. Commission struck the case. Susan Back spoke in favor of preservation; staff clarified that if another entity were to pursue the same use, a new application would be required. Key Outcomes - Case 016-24: Approved (motion by Mr. Landis, second by Ms. Phillips; all ayes). - Case 018-24: Approved (motion by Ms. Warren, second by Mr. McCullough; all ayes). - Case 019-24: Approved (motion by Ms. Warren, second by Mr. McCullough; all ayes). - Case 020-24: Approved and set to council (motion by Ms. Phillips, second by Mr. Landis; all ayes). - Case 022-24: Approved and sent to council under a resolution (motion by Ms. Phillips, second by Mr. Landis? Transcript unclear but motion made and seconded; all ayes). - Case 023-24: Struck (motion by Mr. Landis, second by Ms. Phillips; all ayes). - Cases 014-24, 015-24, 021-24: All struck (each with motions and seconds; all ayes). - No new or old business. Meeting adjourned (motion by Mr. Landis, second by Ms. Warren; all ayes). The next city council meeting to consider the commission's recommendations is scheduled for Monday, June 3, 2024.

The Joplin Board of Appeals met on April 26, 2024, to consider numerous properties scheduled for demolition or under repair orders. The board reviewed progress reports, heard from property owners and neighbors, and granted extensions, stays, or releases for multiple properties. Several property owners cited financial constraints, ongoing rehabilitation work, or efforts to secure funding. The board also approved minutes from the previous meeting and handled a consent calendar item. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the March 2024 Board of Appeals meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 3067 (219 North Pearl Avenue): Kevin Hunter, representing the buyer, requested a 30-day extension to close on the property. The property is under contract and the buyer intends to rebuild. The board granted an extension to May 24, 2024, for a progress report and demolition hearing. - Item 3074 (1711 West A Street): Lenny Peavler and Christopher McWilliams asked to save the front half of the house and rebuild the back. The property had fire damage and foundation issues. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report and demolition hearing, urging the owners to present a detailed plan. - Item 3063 (320 South Windsor): Diana Flores, a recent buyer, sought a stay of demolition. She had cleaned the property and planned a full remodel. The board granted a stay, noting ownership questions (later clarified that she had a warranty deed from Don Simmons). The stay allows her to work toward a permit and bring a plan to the next meeting. - Item 3065 (1030 South Sergeant): Nancy Awedon, representing her brother, requested more time to rehab the property. Contractors estimated over $100,000 for a full rehab. The board declined to grant a stay and allowed the demolition order to proceed, noting the high cost relative to the property’s value. - Item 3068 (1518 South Sergeant): Neighbors spoke in favor of demolition, citing safety issues, vagrants, and fires. The property owner had a permit for electrical work but had made little progress. The board continued the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 3072 (220 North Byers Avenue): The owner reported significant progress on remodeling and had a permit. The board continued the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 3051 (2131 Nashville Avenue): The owner, Tammy, reported slow progress due to weather and health issues. She had a siding and window permit but had not completed framing inspection. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, with a proviso that a framing inspection be completed by the next meeting. - Item 3071 (1822 South Indiana): Marty Coss indicated the house was beyond his ability to rehab and expressed interest in using ARPA grant funds for demolition. The board continued the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report, noting that the grant program was not yet operational. - Items 3026, 3027, 3028 (2611, 2617, 2621 South Pearl): The owner reported substantial progress on plumbing, siding, and windows, and had a new payment plan for the property. The board extended the items to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 3076 (2025 South Buyers Avenue): A first-time attendee requested time to sell the property to an investment company. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 3073 (512 South Cox Avenue): Subcontractors reported extensive work including foundation repairs, new roof, and electrical rough-in. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 3056 (217 South Pearl Avenue): A representative noted progress on a retaining wall and porch, but no interior work. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 3054 (1624 West 4th Street): Matt Smith reported that windows and doors were purchased but not yet installed. He requested a month’s extension. The board granted the extension to May 24, 2024. - Items 3015/3016 (117-121 South Buyers Avenue): Dalton reported framing progress and installation of security lights. The board extended the items to June 28, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 2986 (302 South Connor): The owner did not appear due to a lightning strike blocking his property. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. - Item 2990 (801, 803, 805 West First Street): No progress reported; owners were still seeking funding. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, with a request to fix fencing and maintain the property. - Item 3002 (301 South Winfield): Progress stalled after footing issues. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, with a warning that a demolition hearing could be scheduled if no progress is shown. - Item 3033 (1010 West 3rd): No progress. The board extended the item to May 24, 2024, with a similar warning. - Item 3039 (810 West 17th Street): The owner completed exterior work and was ready for wiring. The board released the property from the agenda. - Item 3075 (1617 South Ohio): The neighbor purchased and demolished the property. The board released it from the agenda. - Item 3077 (1202/1204 South Wall): The building was struck by a vehicle months ago and remained vacant. The board continued the item to May 24, 2024, for a progress report. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved from March 2024 meeting. - Extensions granted to May 24, 2024, for items 3067, 3074, 3068, 3072, 3051, 3071, 3026-3028, 3076, 3073, 3056, 3054, 2986, 2990, 3002, 3033, and 3077. - Stay of demolition granted for item 3063 (320 South Windsor), subject to ownership verification and progress. - Demolition allowed to proceed for item 3065 (1030 South Sergeant) – no stay granted. - Items released from the agenda: 3039 (810 West 17th) and 3075 (1617 South Ohio). - Extended to June 28, 2024, for items 3015/3016 (117-121 South Buyers). - Warnings issued for items 3002 and 3033 that lack of progress could lead to demolition hearings. - Conditional extension for item 3051 requiring a framing inspection before the next meeting.