Public Meetings - Joplin, Missouri

The Joplin Building Board of Appeals met on October 27, 2023, to review progress on multiple properties under demolition orders, conduct dangerous building hearings, and vote on continuances and demolition orders. The meeting included roll call, approval of prior minutes, and discussion of 15+ properties, with several continuances granted and three dangerous building declarations made. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the September board meeting were approved by a voice vote (motion by Mr. Windsor, second by Minister Wicklin). Public Comments & Testimony - Jeremy Brown (representing property owner) discussed 3020, 3026, 3028 (addresses around 2611–2621 South Pearl). He stated that engineering plans (drainage, alley, landscaping, trash enclosure, R3/R1 buffer) were nearly complete and would be submitted the following week. He also noted that the owner planned to sell to Mr. Papin once a building permit is issued. The board expressed frustration over repeated delays and lack of on-site progress. Mr. Brown acknowledged the delays and requested a 30-day extension to December 8. - Elizabeth (representing Isidro Ruiz) appeared for 217 South Pearl (item 3056). She stated the property needed roof repairs, porch reconstruction, cleaning, window replacement, and licensed contractor work for electrical and HVAC. She estimated 30–45 days for outside work and planned to have a permit by the following Friday. - Patrick Stone (owner of 1116 South Jackson, item 3010) reported that his final rough-in inspection was cleared, floors were done, and drywall was next. He noted that his AC unit was stolen and requested help with trespassing. He estimated completion in four months. - Emmanuel Lopez (representing 301 South Windfield, item 302) asked about footing requirements for an addition. Jeff Oliver clarified that the footing must be 30 inches deep on solid ground (no gravel). The owner also mentioned lead-contaminated soil and coordination with the health department. - Sean Grindle (representing 801 West First Street, item 2990) reported that the roof was complete, stonework repaired, and trees trimmed. He was awaiting bids for phase two and bridge loan funding. He could not guarantee progress by December 8 and requested a longer extension. - Levi Bad (Bad Blue Shutter Investments, for 302/306 South Connor, items 2986, 2987) stated that 306 had foundation, roof, and windows complete; plumbing and electrical rough-ins were starting. For 302, a permit was not yet issued due to fire code issues; he planned to meet with the fire marshal. - Philip Fence (owner of 911 West B Street, item 3011) reported that framing was ready for inspection but he was waiting on plumber and electrician. He hoped to have rough-in done by December 8. - Lance Leadford (Leadford Construction, for 1010 West Third Street, item 3033) stated that two other houses on the property were already approved for demolition. The subject house was awaiting a remodel design and permit; he expected to start in two months. - John McGrew (representing Alan Burt for 1010 East 20th Street, item 3030) said windows were replaced and interior cleaned out. Alan Burt was getting bids for elevator and other work. The board noted that a permit was issued in July but no work had started, and a fence had not been erected as requested. Discussion Items - Dangerous Building Hearings (3048, 3050, 3053): The city presented evidence for three properties: 404 South Moffat (item 3048), 1202 South Jackson (item 3050), and 926 South Chestnut (item 3053). Inspector Jeff Oliver testified that all three structures were dilapidated, with damage to walls, roofs, and mechanical systems, and constituted dangerous buildings under Joplin code. For 404 South Moffat, the owner had been contacted and agreed the property was too far gone. For 1202 South Jackson, the owner was contacted by phone but no progress was made. For 926 South Chestnut, the owner did not respond despite certified letters and publication. The board voted to declare each a dangerous building and order demolition. - Old Business – 508 North Cox (item 3029): The board previously ordered demolition but granted a stay. The owner had not pulled a permit or communicated for a month. The board voted to lift the stay and proceed with demolition. - Old Business – 1105 South Indiana (item 3052): The owner signed a consent form agreeing to demolition. The board voted to release the property from the agenda. - Other properties: Several properties were continued to the next meeting (December 8) or, in one case, to January 26, 2024, for progress reports and possible demolition hearings. These included: 130 South Moffitt (item 2985), 117/121 South Fires (items 3015/3016), 810 West 17th Street (item 3039), 2131 Nashville (item 3051), 1624 West 4th (item 3054), 828 South Murphy (item 3055), 1209 South Iowa (item 3057), and 1510 Connor (item 3058). Key Outcomes - Approved continuances: Items 3020/3026/3028, 3056, 3010, 302, 2986/2987, 3011, 3033, 3030, 2985, 3015/3016, 3039, 3051, 3054, 3055, 3057, 3058 were all continued to the December 8, 2023 meeting for progress report and possible demolition hearing. Item 2990 was continued to January 26, 2024. - Stipulation for 3020/3026/3028: The board required a chain-link fence around the property to be erected by the next meeting. - Dangerous building declarations and demolition orders: - Item 3048 (404 South Moffat) – declared dangerous (subsections 4,12,18,19) and ordered demolished. Vote: Ayes majority, with two nays (Mr. Tucker and one other). It was noted the property is on the National Register of Historic Places as the Philip Finning House. - Item 3050 (1202 South Jackson) – declared dangerous (subsections 12,17,18) and ordered demolished. Vote: unanimous. - Item 3053 (926 South Chestnut) – declared dangerous (subsections 4,12,13,19) and ordered demolished. Vote: unanimous. - Demolition order lift: Item 3029 (508 North Cox) – stay of demolition lifted, demolition to proceed. Vote: unanimous. - Release from agenda: Item 3052 (1105 South Indiana) – released because owner agreed to demolition. Vote: unanimous. - Next meeting: December 8, 2023, at 3:00 PM.

The Joplin Historic Preservation Commission met on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 5:11 PM. Roll call was taken with members Halbach, Fisher, Hahn, and Mounts present; others were excused. The minutes from September 19, 2023 were approved unanimously, and the final budget for the fiscal year was presented with no objections. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was offered during the public hearing for the landmark nomination. The hearing was opened and closed without comments from the audience. Discussion Items - Landmark Nomination – 524 West Fifth Street (HPC Case 2023-07): Staff member Thomas presented a detailed report on the property associated with William B. McIntyre, a prominent Joplin lawyer and judge. Research confirmed McIntyre resided at the address in 1900 and likely owned the house (built circa 1906), though deed records are incomplete. The Queen Anne style home underwent porch modifications in 1979. The commission found the nomination well-supported and noted the property is contributing to the district. A motion to approve the local landmark nomination was made by Dr. Fisher, seconded by Ms. Hahn, and carried unanimously. - Downtown Neon Signs Meeting: Staff updated on plans for a public meeting about neon signs, with a location secured at Frank Nakin's property. The format will likely be an open house with repeated presentations to accommodate attendees. - CLG Report: The Certified Local Government report is due November 30. Staff will circulate a draft prior to submission for commission review. Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the commission voted to cancel the November regular meeting, with the understanding that an emergency meeting could be called if needed. - Proposed Elimination of Design Review Board: Staff outlined a plan to fill a long‑vacant commission seat with a licensed architect and then disband the Design Review Board, which has struggled with quorum. The commission expressed support for streamlining design review into the full commission. Staff will draft a resolution and zoning code amendment for future consideration. Key Outcomes - Landmark Nomination Approved: Voted unanimously to designate 524 West Fifth Street as a local landmark. - November Meeting Canceled: Motion passed 5-0 to not hold a regular meeting in November; emergency meetings remain possible with sufficient notice. - Design Review Board Restructuring Endorsed: Commission agreed in principle to eliminate the Design Review Board and add an architect to the Historic Preservation Commission. Staff directed to prepare necessary legal changes. The meeting adjourned at 5:48 PM.

The Zoning and Planning Commission of Joplin, Missouri, convened on October 9, 2023, to consider four cases: a special use permit renewal for a home beauty salon, two rezoning requests from single-family to two-family residential, and a final plat review for a subdivision phase. All items were approved unanimously with one abstention on the minutes approval. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting by a vote of 6 in favor, 0 opposed, with 1 abstention (Mr. McCullough). Motion by Mr. Landis, seconded by Ms. Warren. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in favor or opposition to any case beyond the applicants' testimonies. Discussion Items Case 043-23: Special Use Permit for Home Beauty Salon at 2337 East Zora - Applicant Alexa Patrick requested a special use permit to operate a home beauty salon, continuing a family tradition of 32 years. Staff clarified that the permit is tied to the property ownership; the grandmother had previously held a permit, and after ownership transfer, the new owners had obtained permits in 2019 and 2021. This third request was for the final renewal. The commission approved the motion unanimously. Case 044-23: Rezoning from R1 to R2 at 1802 South Connecticut - Captain Eastman, representing the property owners, requested rezoning to allow construction of three duplexes with two-car garages and two bedrooms upstairs. The lot is deep and unsuitable for a single-family home facing 18th Street. The applicant noted no opposition from neighbors and no protest petitions. The commission approved the motion unanimously. Case 045-23: Rezoning from R1 to R2 at 1221 North Brownell Avenue - The applicant sought to build smaller duplexes (two-bedroom, two-bath, approximately 1,000 square feet, no garage) to address the shortage of affordable housing. Staff clarified that the plan included three duplexes: two off Florida Avenue and one off Brownell Avenue, while retaining the existing single-family house. The commission approved the motion unanimously. Case 046-23: Final Plat Review for Emerald Glades Phase Two at 3330 North St. Louis Avenue - Katrina Smith of Owens Inc. presented the final plat for Phase Two, consisting of 42 lots. Combined with Phase One (31 lots), the subdivision will have a total of 73 lots. The commission approved the motion unanimously. Key Outcomes - All four cases were approved unanimously by the commission. - The recommendations will be presented to the Joplin City Council on November 6, 2023. - The meeting was adjourned following the final approval.

The Joplin Building Board of Appeals met on September 22, 2023, to consider multiple properties on the dangerous building list. The board heard from property owners, reviewed progress, and issued demolition orders for three properties where no owner appeared. Most items were continued to the next meeting on October 27, 2023, pending further progress. Roll Call & Minutes - Present: Mr. Brown, Mr. Windsor, Mr. Duncan, Mr. Tucker. - Excused: Mr. Wagner and Mr. Wicklin (motion carried). - Minutes: Approved by motion (Mr. Windsor/Mr. Tucker, all aye). Property 404 South Mofford (Item 3048) - Speaker: Tevalan Velasquez Celeuterio (owner, lives in Seattle). - He stated he purchased the property in July, has not started remodeling, and is short of funds. He requested time to obtain permits and hire electricians/plumbers. - Board members noted the property has been on the agenda for two meetings and emphasized the need for a concrete plan, budget, and permit. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report and possible demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Tucker, second by Mr. Duncan, all aye). Property 301 South Windfield (Item 302) - Speaker: Representative for owner Ippolito Lopez Garcia (via translator). - Waiting for health department inspection and drawings; some work done (footings dug). - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Windsor, second by Mr. Brown, all aye). Properties at 2611 & 2621 South Pearl (Items 3026, 3027, 3028) - Speaker: Jeremy Bratton (representing the developer). - Reported progress: signed waiver, structural engineer report obtained, civil engineer contract in work. Discussion centered on remaining requirements for a building permit: landscaping plan, stormwater detention (discharge to ditch), alley paving, trash enclosure, and missing plans for buildings one and three. City staff (Chris Parker – engineering, Tyler – planning & zoning) clarified deficiencies. The developer hopes to obtain a building permit and close on financing soon. - A neighbor, William Coons, questioned why the demolition order was stayed; the board explained the process. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Tucker, second by Mr. Windsor, all aye). Property 1010 East 20th (Item 3030) - Speaker: Alan Burt (owner). - Windows installed; interior work ongoing (permit issued). Disagreed with the building still being classified as dangerous, but board noted it meets definitions due to missing electrical/plumbing. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Tucker, second by Mr. Windsor, all aye). Property 508 North Cox (Item 3029) - Speaker: David (owner). - Gutted interior, starting floor repairs. Contractor (People Plus Industries) has licensing issues (master electrician/plumber licenses not renewed). Owner plans to pull permit later that day. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Tucker, second by Mr. Duncan, all aye). Property 911 West B Street (Item 3011) - Speaker: Philip Fence (owner). - Replacement windows installed; framing inspection pending; plumber and electrician lined up. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Windsor, second by Mr. Duncan, all aye). Property 130 South Moffat (Item 2985) - Speaker: Wendy Stevens (co-owner). - Reported extensive interior demolition and progress on the garage apartment (separate address 609 W 2nd St). Noted her son-in-law co-owner died recently; probate may be required. Board clarified they expect progress on the main house, not just the apartment. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Tucker, second by Mr. Duncan, all aye). Items 302 & 306½ South Connor (Items 2986, 2987) - No owner present; city staff reported ongoing work with project manager. - Outcome: Continued to October 27, 2023, for progress report/demolition hearing (motion by Mr. Tucker, second by Mr. Duncan, all aye). Dangerous Building Hearings (New Cases) Item 3046 – 221 South Pearl - City witness: Jeff Oliver (building inspector). Photos showed fire damage; no owner contacted; certified letters sent to owner (Green Cell US LC) and lienholder (BBG Corporation). Published in Joplin Globe. - Board found property dangerous under section 26-612(6). - Outcome: Ordered demolished (motion by Mr. Duncan, second by Mr. Tucker, all aye). Item 3047 – 2701 West D Street - City witness: Jeff Oliver. Property is a detached structure with no sanitation facilities; occupied by a man (believed to be son of owner Ramona J. Couch). Title issues; property next door already demolished. Found dangerous under subsections 10, 12, 16, 18. - Outcome: Ordered demolished (motion by Mr. Windsor, second by Mr. Tucker, all aye). Item 3049 – 1107 East 34th Street - City witness: Jeff Oliver. Fire damage; no owner contact; owner listed as Ann Gilliam. Published in Joplin Globe. Found dangerous under section 26-612(6). - Outcome: Ordered demolished (motion by Mr. Windsor, second by Mr. Brown, all aye). Other Continuations - 1116 South Jackson (Item 3010): Continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Duncan, second Mr. Tucker, all aye). - 1117 & 121 South Byers (Items 3015, 3016): Permit in place; continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Windsor, second Mr. Duncan, all aye). - 1010 West Third (Item 3033): Continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Tucker, second Mr. Windsor, all aye). - 810 West 17th (Item 3039): Permit in place; continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Windsor, second Mr. Duncan, all aye). - 1202 South Jackson (Item 3050): Owner may sell; continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Tucker, second Mr. Duncan, all aye). - 2131 Nashville (Item 3051): Occupied without utilities; continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Duncan, second Mr. Tucker, all aye). - 1105 South Indiana (Item 3052): Potential buyer walked away; continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Tucker, second Mr. Windsor, all aye). - 926 South Chestnut (Item 3053): Previously permitted then abandoned; new owner; continued to October 27 (motion by Mr. Duncan, second Mr. Tucker, all aye). Other Business - City staff noted the Bray residence is still occupied; demolition is on hold to allow owner to remove belongings, expected by end of September 2023. Adjournment - Motion by Mr. Brown, second by Mr. Windsor, all aye. Meeting adjourned.

The Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Joplin met in regular session on September 11, 2023. The commission handled routine approvals and conducted a public hearing for a rezoning request (Case 042-23) by Wildwood Ranch. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to approve the case for transmittal to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Motion to excuse Commissioners Kimball and Jackson for absence, approved unanimously. - Motion to approve the minutes of the August 14, 2023 regular meeting, moved by Landis and seconded by Rosenberg, approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Lillian Bryant, engineer representing Wildwood Ranch, spoke in favor of the rezoning request (Case 042-23). She stated that the roughly 10-acre property was annexed into the city as R1 (single-family residential) and that the applicant sought to rezone to Mixed-Use Commercial (MUC) to maintain flexibility for a combination of single-family homes and possibly retail in the future. She expressed willingness to answer questions. Discussion Items - Commissioner questions clarified that the MUC zoning classification permits a range of residential building types (including single-family, duplexes, apartments, and other multifamily forms) as well as small-scale commercial uses, according to the land use table in Article 4 of the zoning code. - A commissioner asked about covenants or restrictions on the property; staff confirmed there are none restricting development beyond the zoning. - Another commissioner noted that this was not the first MUC request, referencing a prior MUC designation in the Wildwood Ranch annexation area. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to approve Case 042-23, recommending the rezoning from R1 to Mixed-Use Commercial (MUC). - The case is scheduled to be presented to the Joplin City Council on Monday, October 2, 2023. - After the public hearing and business were concluded, the commission adjourned. Note: No agenda or minutes were available for reference; this summary is based solely on the raw transcript.

The Joplin Board of Appeals met on August 25, 2023, to review progress on numerous properties, conduct dangerous building hearings, and decide on stays for demolition orders. The meeting covered properties across the city, with owners offering updates on repairs, permits, and timelines. The board ordered demolition for four properties after dangerous building hearings and continued many others to the next meeting on September 22, 2023. Consent Calendar - Absences of members Mr. Duncan, Mr. Tucker, and Mr. Wicklin were approved by motion (Mr. Windsor, second Mr. Wagner), all in favor. - Minutes of the previous meeting were approved by motion (Mr. Windsor, second Mr. Brown), all in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Randall Switzer, a neighbor of 4002 South Duquesne Road, asked what happens if owners do not attend meetings. The board explained that non-attendance does not prevent demolition orders after proper notice. Discussion Items - 1171 South Byers Avenue (Items 3015/3016): Owner Dustin Melius reported minimal progress, multiple failed framing inspections, and a revised completion timeline of Valentine’s Day (February 14, 2024). He noted the building lacked foundation anchorage originally. The board continued the items to September 22, 2023. - 301 South Windfield (Item 3002): The owner (via interpreter) reported that the front porch roof and windows were completed; foundation supports were being installed. Continued to September 22, 2023. - 911 West B Street (Item 3011): Owner Philip Fence stated the roof is done and interior 95% gutted; subfloor repairs and framing inspection are next. He estimated completion in about 10 weeks, depending on subcontractors. Continued to September 22, 2023. - 2611 and 2621 South Pearl (Items 3026/3028) and 2617 South Pearl (Item 3027): Attorney Jeremy Brown represented the prospective buyer. He explained that a building permit was delayed due to new issues (alley replat, stormwater) and sought reconsideration of the demolition order. The board discussed notice concerns and progress. Two concrete slabs (3026/3028) were continued to September 22, 2023. For the framed structure (3027), the board granted a stay of demolition subject to a signed waiver, requiring within 30 days: a city inspection, a contract for a structural engineer, and a contract for Anderson Engineering to address permit issues. - 404 South Moffat Avenue (Item 3048): First appearance. New owner Aurelia (last name not given) described limited weekends work and intent to obtain a building permit. The board continued to September 22, 2023, and advised her to get a city consultation. - 130 South Moffat Avenue (Item 2985): Alan Grace and owner Swindy Stevens reported that personal items were removed, subcontractors lined up, and a permit application was obtained. Owner Stevens stated she lost $30,000 in stolen materials and was overcoming personal challenges. The board noted it was the 14th month on the agenda and continued to September 22, 2023. - 508 North Cox (Item 3029): Owner David Latham apologized for missing prior meetings after cleaning up extensive hoarding debris. He expressed uncertainty about the cost of full rehabilitation. The board granted a stay of demolition subject to waiver signature, giving him until September 22, 2023, to decide and make progress. - Dangerous Building Hearings: Four properties were declared dangerous and ordered demolished after uncontested evidence: - 4002 South Duquesne Road (Item 3042): Fire damage, dilapidated condition. Unanimous vote to demolish. - 302 South Gray Avenue (Item 3034): Vacant, deteriorating. Unanimous vote to demolish. - 304 South Gray Avenue (Item 3035): Same owner, similar condition. Unanimous vote to demolish. - 1202 South Murphy Avenue (Item 3043): Fire damage, open structure. Unanimous vote to demolish. - 1209 South Jackson Avenue (Item 3044): Abandoned renovation project, attractive nuisance. Unanimous vote to demolish. - Other Properties Continued: - 302 and 306½ South Connor (Items 2986/2987): Owner making progress (windows installed, wall removed). Continued to September 22, 2023. - 801, 803, 805 West First Street (Item 2990): Slow but steady progress. Continued to October 27, 2023 (60 days). - 1116 South Jackson Avenue (Item 3010): Failed framing inspections but diligent. Continued to September 22, 2023. - 1010 West Third Street (Item 3033): Owner in talks with city. Continued to September 22, 2023. - 810 West 17th Street (Item 3039): Building permit pulled, cleanup after fire. Continued to September 22, 2023. - 221 South Pearl Avenue (Item 3046): No contact from owner. Continued to September 22, 2023. - 2701 West D Street (Item 3047): Continued to September 22, 2023. - 1107 East 34th Street (Item 3049): Mobile home destroyed by fire; landowner separate. Continued to September 22, 2023. Key Outcomes - Demolition Ordered: 4002 South Duquesne Road, 302 and 304 South Gray Avenue, 1202 South Murphy Avenue, 1209 South Jackson Avenue. All motions passed unanimously. - Demolition Stay Granted (with waiver): 2617 South Pearl (Item 3027) and 508 North Cox (Item 3029) – owners must meet specific progress benchmarks by September 22, 2023. - Continuations to September 22, 2023: Items 3015/3016, 3002, 3011, 3026/3028, 3048, 2985, 2986/2987, 3010, 3033, 3039, 3046, 3047, 3049. - Continuation to October 27, 2023: Item 2990 (West First Street). - Next Meeting: The board set September 22, 2023, at 9:00 AM for progress reports and a potential demolition hearing. There was discussion about possibly meeting twice a month due to increased workload from ARPA funding, but no decision was made.

The Zoning and Planning Commission of Joplin, Missouri, met on Monday, August 14, 2023, at 10:15 AM. The meeting was called to order with all seven commissioners present. The sole agenda item was a case for which the applicants failed to appear, leading to a unanimous motion to strike the case. The meeting was then adjourned. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the July 10, 2023 meeting. Motion by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Ms. Phillips. Vote: 7-0. Discussion Items - Case Striking Due to Non-Appearance: The commission noted that the individuals scheduled to present a case were not present. After a brief discussion, a motion was made to strike the case (not merely table it) because the applicants had not attended prior planning and zoning meetings. Motion by Ms. Phillips, seconded by Mr. Landis. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Case Struck: The pending case was struck from the agenda due to the applicants' failure to appear. No further action was taken on that matter. - Adjournment: With no other business, the commission voted unanimously to adjourn. Motion by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Ms. Warren. The meeting concluded shortly after being called to order. - Next Meeting Reference: The chair noted that cases presented at this hearing would normally be forwarded to the city council on Monday, September 4, 2023, but since the case was struck, no referral was made.

The Joplin Board of Appeals met on July 28, 2023, to consider multiple properties for demolition or continued progress. The board heard public testimony, reviewed building inspector reports, and conducted dangerous building hearings. Key decisions included ordering demolition of three properties (the former Chop Woman Hotel, 2617 South Pearl, 2119 East Manitou, and 1620 South Wall) and continuing many others pending progress. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board approved the minutes of the previous meeting as amended, with a motion by Mr. Duncan and second by Mr. Windsor. All in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Ed Coontz (neighbor): Spoke on items 3026, 3027, 3028 (Pearl Avenue properties). He expressed frustration that the project has been delayed for over three years, with little progress. He noted that the pre-fab apartment has been sitting for a year and a half, the property is not maintained, and homeless people enter. He urged the board to stop tabling the project and take action. He also mentioned that the city does not treat the tornado zone equally. - Property owner (130 South Moffat): Addressed the board regarding item 2985. She explained delays due to divorce, theft, and personal issues. She requested a three-month extension, but the board continued it for one month. She expressed commitment to renovating the historic home. - Aaron Gumpenberger (HDDA Joplin LLC): Represented the owner of the former Chop Woman Hotel (2615 South Rangeline). He discussed the demolition agreement and financing issues. He clarified that the owner would not pay demolition costs upfront if the city's CID pays. The board held a dangerous building hearing and ordered demolition. - Lance Leedford (Left for Construction): Addressed items 3033, 3034, 3035 (1010 West Third, 302 and 304 South Gray). He provided updates on lot splits and planned demolition and rehabilitation. - Bank representative (911 West B): Monitored item 3011. Reported that the contractor promised to start work, but no progress had been made. - Woman (property owner): After her home was ordered demolished in a previous meeting, she complained about contractors trespassing and peeking in windows. She stated she lives in the home and will not leave. The board acknowledged her comments but noted the demolition order stands. Discussion Items - Item 3030 (1010 East 20th Street): Charles Burke Inc. reported that the building permit was obtained and windows are on order. Requested less frequent meetings. Board continued to September 22, 2023, for 60 days. - Item 3002 (301 South Windfill): Property owner (via translator) reported roof and deck repairs, with two windows left. Board requested a schedule. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Items 315/316 (117/121 South Byers): Dustin (ProX) reported structural and foundation work, failed inspection, and plans being drawn. Original completion date pushed back. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 2985 (130 South Moffat): Owner detailed progress (demo, electrical work) and requested a three-month extension. Board denied three-month request, citing lack of communication, and continued to August 25, 2023, for progress report and demolition hearing. - Items 3026, 3027, 3028 (Pearl Avenue): After public comment, the board held a dangerous building hearing for the house at 2617 South Pearl (item 3027) and ordered it demolished including the slab. The two vacant slabs (items 3026 and 3028) were continued to August 25, 2023, despite two nays. - Item 3003 (129 South Patterson): Construction nearly complete; final inspection pending. Released from agenda. - Item 3010 (1116 South Jackson): Rough-in electrical and plumbing done; waiting for inspections and window. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 2913 (3615 South Rangeline): Dangerous building hearing held. Building inspector Jeff Oliver testified that the property is open, abandoned, and a fire hazard. Evidence of multiple fires and firefighters falling into a pool. Board declared it dangerous and ordered demolition including all outbuildings. The owner's representative discussed the demolition agreement; board proceeded with order. - Items 2986/2987 (302 South Connor and 306 1/2 South Connor): Owner reported contractor abandonment and new contractor lined up. Permit not yet pulled. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Items 3033, 3034, 3035 (1010 West Third, 302 and 304 South Gray): Owner reported lot split application and plans to demolish two structures and rehab the house. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3011 (911 West B): No progress; contractor failed to appear. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3042 (4002 Duquesne): Owner requested demolition permit; insurance proceeds available. Continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3014 (822 South Byers): Demolition completed. Released from agenda. - Item 3038 (2119 East Manitou): Dangerous building hearing held. Property damaged by fire. Board declared dangerous and ordered demolition including outbuildings. - Item 3040 (1620 South Wall): Dangerous building hearing held. Fire-damaged mobile home. Board declared dangerous and ordered demolition including outbuildings. - Item 3039 (810 West 17th): Permit pulled; continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3041 (1101 South Jackson): Owner signed consent form; demolition pending. Released from agenda. - Item 3043 (1202 South Murphy): First time on agenda; continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3044 (1209 South Jackson): Owner aware of need to demolish; continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3045 (715 West 32nd): Demolition completed. Released from agenda. - Item 3046 (221 South Pearl): Fire-damaged; continued to August 25, 2023. - Item 3047 (2701 West D): Garage with separate address; continued to August 25, 2023. - Board Procedural Discussion: A board member raised a motion to require speakers to be on the agenda, but later retracted after clarification that the board already has discretion. Key Outcomes - Demolition Orders: The board declared four properties dangerous and ordered demolition: - Item 2913 (3615 South Rangeline) – motion by Mr. Wicklin, second by Mr. Brown, all in favor. - Item 3027 (2617 South Pearl) – motion by Mr. Duncan, second by Mr. Tucker, all in favor (including slab). - Item 3038 (2119 East Manitou) – motion by Mr. Wagner, second by Mr. Tucker, all in favor. - Item 3040 (1620 South Wall) – motion by Mr. Wagner, second by Mr. Duncan, all in favor. - Releases from Agenda: Items 3003, 3014, 3041, and 3045 were released due to completion or pending demolition consent. - Continues to August 25, 2023: Items 3002, 315/316, 2985, 3026, 3028, 3010, 2986/2987, 3033/34/35, 3011, 3042, 3039, 3043, 3044, 3046, 3047 were continued for progress reports and potential demolition hearings. - Item 3030 continued to September 22, 2023 (60-day extension). - Public Comment: Ed Coontz's concerns about the Pearl Avenue project were noted; the board acknowledged neighborhood frustration but proceeded with the demolition hearing for the house.

The Joplin Historic Preservation Commission met on Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at 5 p.m. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a budget update, discussion of a planned intensive survey of the North Heights neighborhood, and action on two resolutions. The commission also heard several announcements regarding local historic properties and upcoming events. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved the minutes from the May 16, 2023 meeting by a unanimous voice vote. - Excusal of Members: A motion to excuse Ms. Ditarr and Mr. Breckner from the meeting was passed unanimously. - Budget Update: No changes were reported, but staff noted that the consulting budget for the North Heights survey may be fully utilized, with costs possibly exceeding initial estimates due to the high number of accessory structures (outbuildings) that must be documented. The project may require three or four phases extending over several years, potentially until 2034. Discussion Items - North Heights Survey Timeline: Staff provided an update on the planned intensive-level architectural survey of the North Heights neighborhood. A public meeting is scheduled for July 27, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. at Unity of Joplin on Jackson Avenue to discuss the project with the neighborhood group. The survey is expected to be costly due to the large number of outbuildings, and the commission discussed the extended timeline (up to four years) and the need to commit budget accordingly. Members asked about the historical boundaries of North Heights, and staff explained the original plat and natural geographical boundaries. - Resolution 2023-02 – North Heights Survey Application: After discussion, the commission voted to approve Resolution 2023-02, authorizing the submission of a grant application for the North Heights survey. Motion by Ms. Hahn, seconded by Dr. Fisher; passed unanimously. - Resolution 2023-03 – Endorsement of Downtown Survey Grant: Staff (Lori and Thomas) abstained due to their involvement in the project. The resolution endorses a grant application by a group of property owners seeking to create or expand a National Register historic district downtown. The survey will determine if the proposed district should be added to an existing district or become separate. The commission approved the resolution by voice vote (motion by Mr. Huff, seconded by Dr. Fisher). Staff clarified that the project uses HPF grants and private funding, not city funds, and will not affect eligibility for other grants. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolutions: Both Resolution 2023-02 (North Heights survey) and Resolution 2023-03 (downtown survey endorsement) were approved. - Public Meeting Scheduled: The commission will hold a public meeting on July 27, 2023 to discuss the North Heights survey. - No August Meeting: The commission confirmed it will not meet in August, per bylaws. - Lestron House Update: The Lestron House (a 1949 enameled steel house, local landmark) sold at auction for $92,000. Staff will monitor the property. A potential buyer expressed interest in moving the house, which the commission would likely consider demolition. - Other Announcements: Upcoming events include an author visit at the library (August 8), the Jomo Jammin Music Festival, Waterfest, and a Heartland Opera production. Also, restoration progress on the balcony and windows at an unspecified building was noted, and a tornado archive project at Missouri Southern State University is in preliminary stages.