Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City Council convened on December 19, 2024, at 8:30 PM for a regular business meeting. The session included several honorary resolutions for retiring employees and community leaders, followed by consideration of ordinances related to taxes, development, and policy updates. Key decisions included renewal of a quarter-cent sales tax for capital improvements and public safety, approval of a $7.5 million brownfield loan for affordable housing, and adoption of a demolition review process for historic structures. Consent Calendar - 241102 – Honoring Edward T. Matheny Jr. for contributions to the city, state, and country. Adopted unanimously. - 241087 – Honoring Delena Taylor on her retirement after 25 years and four months with the Neighborhood Services Department. Adopted unanimously. - 241097 – Honoring Ursula Copeland on her retirement after 24 years with the Kansas City Health Department. Adopted unanimously. - 241100 – Honoring Darkest B. Gates for her singing career and generosity to Kansas City. Adopted unanimously. - 241084 – Honoring Hakima Payne upon her retirement from Uzzazi Village. Adopted unanimously. - 241103 – Honoring Dr. Richard Gist on his retirement after 26 years and two months with the Kansas City Fire Department. Adopted unanimously. - 241049 – Lease agreement with Kansas City Boys Choir for office space at Robert Mohart Center. Approved. - 241059 – Termination of the Summit TIF plan and distribution of surplus funds. Approved. - 241063 – Update to the film development program to align with state incentives. Approved unanimously (11-0). - 241037 – Acceptance of $500,000 grant from Missouri Department of Natural Resources for stormwater monitoring. Approved. - 241050 – Purchase of 8.22 acres at 5521 NE Sam Raphael Drive for park purposes. Approved. - 241051 – Brownfields revolving loan of $7,575,000 for Historic Northeast Lofts project (389 units, 82% affordable, childcare and green space). Approved. - 241052 – Development plan amendment for motor vehicle repair at NW 68th Street and Highway 169. Approved. - 241055 – Surplus funds from Winchester TIF for housing repair projects. Approved after hold. - 241066 – Rezoning at NE Barry Road and N Indiana Avenue for commercial buildings. Approved. - 241067 – Amendment to design contract for Paseo improvements near 18th Street pedestrian mall. Approved. - 241070 – New demolition review process for historic structures (Chapter 88 amendment). Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Councilmembers provided statements during discussion items. Discussion Items - 240695 – Renewal of quarter-cent capital improvement/public safety sales tax: Councilwoman Boo presented the ordinance calling for an election on April 8, 2025, for a 20-year renewal to fund public safety and capital expenditures. Councilman Duncan spoke in opposition, citing a disparity: for every dollar spent on public health, $11 is spent on enforcement and detention; for housing, $11 on enforcement; for tenant advocacy and unhoused services, $168 on enforcement; and for low-barrier shelter, $26 on jail. He called for better balance. Councilman Bunch, who previously opposed a municipal jail, stated he now supports the tax because it includes wraparound services and rehabilitation, and he credited Councilman Raya's leadership. He emphasized the need to continue investing in housing. Councilwoman Patterson-Hasley noted that her district needs a strategy for behavior change and that the rehabilitation aspect distinguishes this facility. The ordinance passed 9-2 (Duncan and one other opposed, but roll call shows 9 ayes, 1 no? Actually roll call: Patterson-Hasley aye, Robinson Raya aye, Bunch aye, [Curls?], Parkshaw aye, Boo aye, Duncan no, O'Neill aye, Willett aye, French Rogers aye, Lucas aye – that's 10 ayes? Wait count: ayes from O'Neill? Let's recount: listed ayes: Patterson Hasley, Robinson Raya, Bunch, Pearls (Curls?), Parkshaw, Boo, O'Neill, Willett, Rogers, Lucas = 10; Duncan no. The transcript says

The Kansas City City Council held a Business Session on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting began informally without a quorum but later achieved a quorum, allowing official business. Key agenda items included an update from the World Cup 2026 Board and the Housing Trust Fund annual report. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the Business Session of October 31, 2024. Motion passed unanimously. World Cup 2026 Board Update Pam, Lindsay Douglas, and Jason Sims presented an update on World Cup 2026 planning. Key points: - Timeline: 538 days until the tournament, which will be the largest version of the World Cup ever. Kansas City will host six matches, including a quarterfinal, with 650,000 visitors expected during the tournament. The visitor impact during group stage matches is expected to be as significant as the quarterfinal. - FIFA Fan Festival: The initial event concept was submitted to FIFA in November, with a preliminary layout featuring a live viewing area on the south lawn of the World War I Museum, with the skyline in the background. FIFA has called it the best fan festival plan among host cities, and Kansas City will present its process (not specific plan) at a host city workshop in January to remain competitive for sponsorship investment. - Transportation: A stakeholder workshop in late November generated ideas for point-to-point transit connections rather than relying solely on the 435 loop. The team is assessing park-and-ride locations (currently illustrative, not final). - Bus Procurement: Kansas City is the first host city to go to market for bus leasing, with an estimated need of 200 buses. The first 200 buses have already been identified, and contracts are expected by mid-January. Over 4,000 buses will be needed nationally, and Kansas City secured a favorable price by being first to market. - Safety and Security: A dedicated safety and security director (former Secret Service) has been hired. The $1 million line item in the 2025 budget is a placeholder for joint operations center setup and training. Equipment needs are being assessed, and a $625 million federal funding request (including $59 million for Kansas City) has been submitted with other host cities. Costs depend on factors like final draw and base camps. - 2025 Budget: The board approved a $33 million budget for 2025, covering management, safety, transportation, fan festival, and other costs. The budget is partially fluid, and funds from committed public and private sources are available. Unused 2025 funds will roll over to 2026. - Private Funding: Sponsorship packages (supporters and champions) are being sold, limited to 10 supporter packages. Local businesses can use the KC 2026 logo. - Small Business Engagement: The team is working with the city's small business task force and area chambers. Over 1,000 businesses have signed up for procurement notifications, half of which are diverse-owned. A charrette with entrepreneurial support organizations is planned for Q1 2025. - Community Events: Planned events in 2025 include an announcement of Kansas City's audio ID and host city poster (Q1), a mascot reveal (Q2), the one-year-to-go mark in June, and countdown clocks. The volunteer portal will open in Q3, expecting 4,000–6,000 volunteers. - Short-Term Rentals: Councilmember O'Neill asked about using short-term rentals for housing during the World Cup. The team noted that existing hotel capacity (55,000 rooms) is likely sufficient, but they are purchasing data on short-term rental clusters to plan transportation connections. Councilmember Bunch added that owner-occupied short-term rentals still have flexibility under current ordinance. - Detention Capacity: Councilmember Rea raised concerns about the city's limited detention beds. The safety and security director (starting soon) will incorporate detention planning, considering temporary facilities and booking process changes. The team acknowledged the need but noted that events typically see fewer arrests, with peripheral crimes often falling under state jurisdiction. Housing Trust Fund Update Deion Lewis, Evan Sherelli, and Mary Owens presented the 2024 annual report on the Housing Trust Fund (HTF). Key points: - Program Overview: The HTF was established in 2018 to fund affordable housing development and preservation. A board reviews applications and recommends projects to council. - 2024 Results: Through four RFP rounds, 96 applications were received, and 44 awards were made totaling about $40 million. These funds leveraged nearly $500 million in total project investment, with HTF dollars making up about 7% of individual project budgets on average. The majority of awards are in council district 3. - Affordable Units: The HTF projects are expected to create or preserve 2,362 affordable units so far. In 2025, an estimated 315 additional units will be produced. Over half of the units target households earning at or below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI). - Strategic Direction: The board aims to deepen impact by focusing on shovel-ready projects, improving education and communication to increase application quality and district representation. A data dashboard was created to provide year-to-date assessment of projects. - Funding Sustainability: The current HTF funding is expected to run out in 2026. To reach the city's goal of 10,000 affordable units by 2027, new funding sources are needed. Councilmember Bunch noted that at the current average cost of $15,000 per unit, creating 10,000 total units (across all city programs) would require approximately $152 million. The 10,000 unit goal includes both new construction and preservation, and encompasses all city housing tools (not just HTF). - Reporting: HTF now requires initial, bi-monthly, and closeout reporting. An annual report is published with a one-year lag; round 4 data was provided in the presentation but not yet in the report. Key Outcomes - The minutes of the October 31, 2024 Business Session were approved unanimously. - The council received the World Cup 2026 board update and Housing Trust Fund update as information items. - No formal votes were taken on the updates, but several councilmembers raised questions and concerns that will be addressed in future planning. - The discussion of ordinances and resolutions was deferred to a subsequent portion of the meeting (not recorded in the transcript).

The Kansas City Council met on December 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM (20:15 UTC) to consider a range of ordinances and resolutions. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Dr. Sarita Wright and the Pledge of Allegiance. Eleven members were present. The council approved a consent agenda, debated several items, and adopted both state and federal legislative priority lists. Consent Calendar - 241038: Unanimously approved appointing Tim Harris, Matthew Iway, Cheryl Gambiambo, Blake Fulton, and Shelley K. Stephanie Harris Klein as successor directors of the Winnes Plaza Community Improvement District. Discussion Items - Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grants (241046): Councilwoman Boo presented a resolution approving grant awards for the Kansas City Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant Program, which supports small businesses in expanding outdoor dining. The finance committee recommended passage, and the ordinance passed unanimously (11 ayes). - 39th Maine General Development Plan Amendment (240922): Councilman Bunch introduced a resolution to rebooting an old PIEA plan by amending the estimated completion time to 20 years. Councilman Duncan requested to hold the item to review a memorandum from PIEA. The council agreed and later passed it 11-1. - In-Sourcing Animal Control (241043): Councilman Bunch explained a resolution directing the city manager to develop a plan within 30 days to bring animal control operations in-house. The current contract with KC Pet Project expires May 1, 2025, and the RFP process resulted in no contractor selected. Councilman Curls asked about budget implications; Councilman Bunch confirmed the plan will include costs. Councilman Duncan inquired about the reasons for not renewing with KC Pet Project; Councilwoman Patterson Hasley cited procurement scoring (67/100 points) and negative feedback. Councilman Willett noted it is a resolution, not a final decision. The resolution passed unanimously. - Prohibiting Employee Testimony (240902): Councilwoman Robinson (and Patterson Hasley) introduced an ordinance codifying a policy that staff cannot testify before city boards on matters outside their work authority while on the clock, preserving First Amendment rights. The legal review committee recommended passage. It passed 11-1. - State Legislative Priorities (241022): The resolution outlines Kansas City's priorities for the 2025 Missouri General Assembly. Councilman Willett expressed concern about lack of consultation with council and requested a briefing from government affairs staff. He voted no. The resolution passed 8-4. - Federal Legislative Priorities (241024): Similar to the state priorities, this resolution covers positions for the 119th U.S. Congress (2025-26). Amendments were made for transit and brownfield remediation. The vote was 9-3. - Job Classifications (21103): Councilwoman Boo presented an ordinance adding, removing, and re-titling several city job classifications, including deputy fire chief and equity manager. Passed unanimously. - Settlement of Daniel McGrath Case (241034): Approving a $850,000 settlement (Case No. 2316-CB-13431). Councilman Duncan requested a future presentation on risk assessment and legal exposure. Councilman O'Neill suggested a running tally of settlements. Councilwoman Robinson highlighted the need for improved workplace discrimination prevention and commended HR's EEOC training. Passed 11-0. - Women in the Workplace Audit (241047): Councilwoman Boo introduced an ordinance requiring the city auditor to report on practices relating to women, including key performance indicators, to the human rights commission and council. Councilman Duncan questioned how the auditor would report on his own staff; Councilwoman Boo explained the auditor would act as a director subject to the same obligation. Passed 11-0. - Accept Property (241035): Accepting a sliver of property from the school district adjacent to existing parks near Central High School. Passed 10-0. - Rezoning (241042): Rezoning 19 acres from B3-3 to B4-3 near North Ambassador Drive and North Polo to allow commercial uses, including self-storage. Passed 11-0. - Permanent Outdoor Dining Expansion (241045): Making permanent the COVID-era allowance for restaurants to expand outdoor dining into parking lots and green spaces. Councilman Willett praised the policy. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Animal control: The council voted to direct the city manager to develop an in-sourcing plan within 30 days. - Settlement: Authorized $850,000 settlement; council members called for more transparency on legal liabilities. - Legislative priorities: Adopted state (8-4) and federal (9-3) priority lists for 2025. - First readings referred to committees: - 241073: Moratorium until July 16, 2025 on manufacturing zoning amendments within the KCI area plan update. Referred to Neighborhood Planning and Development. - 241074: Amending city codes to include persons with criminal histories as a protected class against discrimination. Referred to Finance, Governance and Public Safety. - All other items on the debate docket passed, with votes noted above. Committee Advances - Plats and subdivisions (241031, 241032) approved unanimously. - Various ordinances on the advance debate docket passed with unanimous or near-unanimous support.

The Kansas City Council convened on November 21, 2024, at 20:30 UTC. The meeting opened with an invocation by Bishop Stan Gleason of Life Church and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a roll call showing 11 members present. The council considered multiple special actions honoring community groups and individuals, debated zoning and development ordinances, and addressed late-added items including land bank lot transfers and construction contracts. Key votes included motions to send a rezoning proposal back to the City Plan Commission and approvals for several street vacations and TIFF plan progress determinations. Special Actions - 241001: Recognizing Graduates of Community Engagement University (2024 term). The mayor, mayor pro tem, and a Cookingham Fellow acknowledged the graduates for their civic engagement. The resolution was adopted unanimously. - 241008: Recognizing Melissa Johnson for Public Service and as Jackson County Prosecutor-Elect. Numerous council members praised her work as Public Safety Director, including standing up the multidisciplinary public safety task force and her door-to-door violence prevention efforts. The resolution was adopted unanimously. Johnson thanked the council and emphasized her commitment to addressing root causes of violence. - 241025: Commending Palestinian American Medical Association (PAMA) for Humanitarian Efforts in Gaza. Introduced as a late addition after a procedural motion to suspend rule limiting special actions. Councilmember Duncan cited PAMA’s founding in Kansas City, its 18,000+ members (1,000 in KC metro), and medical missions into Gaza since 2018. A representative noted PAMA’s plans to take over cancer and dialysis care in Gaza and a winterization project. Adopted 11-0 (Councilmember Willett voted no on the motion to suspend rules but the resolution itself passed with ayes). - 241026: Honoring Soul of Santa Dugo Foundation. Councilwoman Robinson recognized the foundation’s mission to empower individuals with disabilities, including the Aria Campbell Empowerment Program (awarding $1,000 grants). Founders described tree lighting ceremonies (Nov 27 at Shops at Blue Parkway, Dec 6 at 18th & Vine), a new ice skating rink, and monthly food distributions (20,000–25,000 lbs). Resolution adopted unanimously. Discussion Items - 240879 – Rezoning at 5500 Bennington Avenue (Urban Farm). Councilman Bunch introduced an ordinance to rezone approximately 13 acres from R-80 to MPD to expand urban agricultural uses. Councilmembers Patterson-Hasley and Robinson expressed concerns about composting proximity to residences and proposed sending the plan back to the City Plan Commission with conditions: move driveway 250 feet north and compost facility 500 feet from residences. After debate, the council voted 11-1 (Bunch opposed) to refer the item back to CPC. - 240997 – Anti-Displacement Plan Resolution. A resolution directing the city manager to develop a comprehensive anti-displacement plan and review municipally owned housing corporations. Councilmembers Duncan and Curls added as co-sponsors. Passed unanimously (11-0). - 240923 & 240924 – PIEA Plan Extensions for 39th & Main and Midtown Areas. Discussion centered on whether a 20-year extension of the PIEA plan (originally approved) would allow tax abatements to run beyond the plan period. Councilmembers Boo, O’Neill, and Lucas questioned the length and policy implications. The council decided to hold both items until the next regular meeting to obtain legal clarity from PIEA’s attorney. - 240988, 240989, 24091 – TIFF Plan Progress Determinations (19th Terrace Central, Bannister Corridor, 11th Street Corridor). The council found each plan making satisfactory progress. All passed unanimously. - 240995 – PIEA Plan for 49th & Montgall (4 acres). Declared the area blighted and approved a general development plan tied to a specific residential project. Passed unanimously. - Vacation Ordinances (240843, 240849, 240922, 240971, 240972) – Paper street vacations near the sports complex. These vacated approximately 84,000 sq ft, 5,400 sq ft, 2,000 sq ft, 4,500 sq ft, and 2,000 sq ft of unimproved rights-of-way. Public Works confirmed no future activation. All passed unanimously except 240879 (referred). - 241027 – Acceptance of 14 Land Bank Parcels (5th District). Mayor Pro Tem introduced a same-day adoption ordinance to allow the city manager to accept 14 vacant lots from the Land Bank for an affordable housing pilot. Council appropriated funds in May 2023. Adopted unanimously (12-0). - 241028, 241029, 241030 – Late-Added Ordinances (Barney Ellis construction amendment, South Loop Park design contract, Platte County trail improvements). Referred to the Transportation Infrastructure and Operations Committee. Key Outcomes - The rezoning for the urban farm (240879) was sent back to the City Plan Commission with specific conditions (driveway relocation and compost setback), voting 11-1. - The anti-displacement resolution (240997) passed unanimously, directing the city manager to report back. - Two PIEA plan extensions (240923, 240924) were held for two weeks pending legal clarification on the 20-year extension’s effect on tax abatement duration. - All three TIFF plan progress resolutions (240988, 240989, 24091) passed without dissent. - Five street vacation ordinances were approved, all passing unanimously. - The City accepted 14 land bank lots (241027) via same-day adoption, 12-0, to expedite affordable housing construction. - Three late-added ordinances were referred to committee. - The meeting concluded with a birthday acknowledgment for the mayor pro tem and Thanksgiving wishes.

The Kansas City Council met on November 7, 2024, at 8:15 PM. The meeting began with an invocation by Bishop Stan Gleason, the Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call showing 11 members present. The council adopted two special resolutions, passed multiple consent and debate items, and introduced a late resolution on anti-displacement. Consent Calendar - 240983: Declaring Monday, November 18, 2024 as National Injury Prevention Day in Kansas City, Missouri. Adopted unanimously. - 240984: Recognizing November 11 as Veterans Day, honoring the work of Kansas City Veterans Court, and congratulating Army Veteran Juan Lincoln for his graduation from Veterans Court. Adopted unanimously. - 240969: Appointing Gilworth as successor director to the Martin City CID. Adopted 10-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Laura Kimmerling (Children's Mercy) thanked the council for recognizing Injury Prevention Day and invited attendees to a gathering on Saturday, November 16 at Charlie's House (east of University Health and UMKC) focusing on suicide prevention, roadway safety, and firearm safety for teenagers, preteens, and parents. - Juan Lincoln (Army veteran) shared his experience in Veterans Court, describing initial reluctance but eventual appreciation for the program's step-by-step support and the lessons he learned. Discussion Items - 240924: Resolution directing the city manager to develop and present a home ownership assistance program to the council within 180 days. Councilwoman French explained it would expand on a city employee program to a citywide program, targeting residents at 80% AMI using federal funding and exploring public-private partnerships for 80-120% AMI. Adopted 10-0. - 240970: Vacating approximately 7,300 square feet of street in District B32 on a portion of Archibald Avenue that currently serves as a parking lot. Adopted 11-0. - 240976: Rezoning approximately 0.1 acre at the northeast corner of West 18th Street and Penway from R-2.5 to R-1.5 to allow construction of a multi-unit building. Adopted 11-0. - 240982: Major amendment to a previously approved development plan at 4615 Roanoke Parkway, adding one story for a total of 18 stories (approximately 232 feet) and 279 units, with a deviation to the maximum floor area ratio. Adopted 11-0. - 240978: Increasing settlement authority of the city attorney from $25,000 to $150,000 and the risk management committee from $50,000 to $300,000 for workers' compensation and other claims. Councilman Robinson opposed, arguing it reduces council oversight and could limit ability to ask about safety officer requests. Passed 8-3 (Robinson, Curls, Duncan voting no). - 240982 (Lindwood Shopping Center): Authorizing one-time financial relief for the Linwood Shopping Center CID using $250,000 from previously appropriated funds, $250,000 from the Health Levy Fund, $250,000 from the Shared Success Fund, and $250,000 from Community Development Block Grant funds, plus directing the city manager to apply for an additional $2,750,000 for long-term planning. Adopted 11-0. Councilman Curls voiced support but stressed the need for similar creativity for the 5th District. - 240930: Authorizing a $7,500,000 construction contract with Sierra Bone Asphalt Company for asphalt concrete citywide renewal. Adopted 11-0. - 240974: Authorizing a $7,724,800 construction contract with Infrastructure Solutions for water main replacement along Prospect Avenue from East Linwood Boulevard to 3rd Street. Councilman Robinson noted that several originally budgeted projects in environmental justice census tracts could not be done this year. Adopted 11-0. - 240975: Authorizing grant funding agreements for the Swope Park Blue River Trail and 63rd Street trail connections, with $1,500,000 in federal funds and a $500,000 local match from parks sales tax. Adopted 11-0. - 240973: Directing the city manager to develop a cost share plan and maintenance agreement with the City of Liberty for the shared portion of North 104th Street, estimating costs and identifying funding sources within 30 days. Adopted 11-0. - Late Resolution (24097?): Resolution directing the city manager to develop a comprehensive anti-displacement plan, issue a request for information on anti-mitigation policies, and review municipal owned housing development corporations and peer cities. Referred to the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee. Key Outcomes - Two special action resolutions adopted unanimously. - All consent docket items passed unanimously (one with 10-0 due to absence). - Ordinance 240978 (settlement authority increase) passed with a vote of 8-3 (Robinson, Curls, Duncan opposed). - All other debate items passed unanimously (11-0). - A late resolution on anti-displacement was introduced and referred to committee. - Mayor noted ongoing progress on the Lee Summit Airport issue and dispatched Councilman Rogers to handle related matters.

The Kansas City Council convened on October 31, 2024, at 8:45 PM. The meeting included invocation, roll call, adoption of several consent items, final passage of multiple ordinances, and extensive debate on the 2024 update of the citywide business plan. Key actions included recognition of cultural events, approval of capital improvement plans, and votes on domestic violence measures. Consent Calendar - 240945–240946: Appointments to RCID and CID neighborhood committees – passed unanimously. - 240932: Settlement of $75,413 for a workers' compensation claim – approved. - 240936: Settlement of $117,500 in a lawsuit – approved. - 240937: Settlement of $225,000 for a workers' compensation claim – approved. - 240940: Acceptance of a $395,000 grant for the mental health court – approved. - 240941: Acceptance of a $656,925 grant from the Department of Justice – approved. - 240928: Termination of the 45th and Main Community Improvement District – approved. - 240942: Approval of a 46-lot subdivision in Clay County – approved. - 240950: Asset transfer from expired Red Bridge CID – approved. - 240926: Financing of $5,003,940 for 12 ambulances and equipment – passed. - 240938: $3 million contract for automated water meter infrastructure – approved. - 240939: $4,325,253 contract for aviation planning services at KCI – approved. - 240949: $296,205 amendment for bridge design at KCI – approved. - 240955: $749,084 amendment for Lee’s Summit Road design – approved. Discussion Items - 240857 – Citywide Business Plan Update Councilwoman Boo introduced a committee substitute. An amendment was proposed to move the Blue Ridge Boulevard project (87th to Bannister) from the 3090 fund to the GO Bond fund and add a new project (Prospect to 59th Street). After debate, this amendment failed (9 nays, 4 ayes). Councilwoman Robinson declined to offer an amendment, stating the plan was inequitable and racist. A second amendment to correct the project name (keeping the same $3 million in the 3090 fund) was adopted unanimously. The resolution as amended passed (11 ayes, 2 noes: Patterson-Hasley and Robinson). - 240957 – Domestic Violence Support Councilman Curls presented a resolution directing the city manager to research and develop policies for domestic violence victims within 90 days. Passed unanimously. - 240921 – 18th & Vine Museum and Mohart Center Funding Plan Councilman O’Neill reported cost estimates of $7.4 million for the museum and $3.2 million for the Mohart Center. Resolution adopted. - 240948 & 240962 – Domestic Assault Ordinance and Parking Garage New municipal domestic assault ordinance approved. Project development agreement with Gracian Capital for an 18th & Vine district parking garage approved. - TIF Amendments Several ordinances (240419, 240421, 240898, 240929, 240943, 240944, 240954) related to Platte Purchase, North Oak, and other TIF plans were passed. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolutions: - 240968 (UNESCO music exchange with Belfast) – adopted unanimously. - 240965 (Día de los Muertos recognition) – adopted unanimously. - Final Passage of Ordinances: - 240857 (Citywide Business Plan, as amended) – passed 11-2. - 240957 (Domestic violence policy study) – passed 11-0. - 240933 (Brownfields cleanup grant application, up to $4 million) – passed. - 240903 (Infrastructure funding plan, 30-day report) – passed. - 240921 (18th & Vine/Mohart funding plan) – passed. - 240926 (Ambulance financing) – passed. - 240948 (Domestic assault ordinance) – passed. - 240962 (Parking garage at 18th & Vine) – passed. - Multiple TIF amendments – all passed. - Late Ordinances Introduced: - 240980 (Financial relief for Linwood Shopping Center CID, $250,000 from general fund). - 240981 (Expand parking contract with Last Parking LLC, $1.6 million). - 240982 (Development plan amendment for 232-foot apartment building at 4615 Roanoke Parkway). - No public testimony was heard during the meeting.

The Kansas City Council convened on October 24, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. for a regular business session. The meeting included special recognitions, a same‑day adoption resolution to provide free public transit on Election Day (November 5, 2024), permanent changes to council meeting start times, a consent docket of claims and administrative items, and a debated ordinance allocating $300,000 from the Violence Prevention and Intervention Fund for police software. Several infrastructure contracts were also approved. Consent Calendar - Settlements: Three claims approved without debate – $125,000 (Rudy Hernandez), $150,000 (Daniel Carter lawsuit), $75,000 (workers’ compensation for Ryan Harris). All passed unanimously (13‑0). - Advanced Consent Docket (unanimous approvals): - $666,667 contract with Zolo Communications for aviation marketing/ advertising (five‑year term). - Fourth amendment to River Market lease (six‑year extension with Planned Industrial Expansion Authority). - $13,006,500 in financing for citywide fleet replacement vehicles (2025 project), primarily from domestic automakers. - $8.5 million for Swope Memorial Golf Course improvements (green, tee, and hole upgrades); noted as historically significant course (designed by A.W. Tillingast, hosted 1949 PGA event). - $300,000 grant from Missouri DESE for the Building Blocks home visiting program. - Road diet implementation plan and microsurfacing ordinance (Vision Zero support). - $500,000 construction contract for water distribution system repairs (valve straightening). - $2.7 million emergency water distribution repairs contract. - $2,063,294 contract for drinking water service line materials inventory (lead line identification). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. The transcript indicates that extensive testimony had been received previously on the flavored tobacco ban (held off the docket). Discussion Items - Honoring Orley McKenzie & Life 360 (Resolution 240925): Recognized the founder for youth empowerment, technology, and cultural preservation. Adopted unanimously. - Honoring Richard Allen (Resolution 240956): Recognized 25 years of service with Parks and Recreation, highlighting projects such as Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Brush Creek Trail, and Loose Park. Adopted unanimously. - Free Transit on Election Day (Same‑day adoption resolution): Proposed by Mayor Pro Tem to direct the city manager to collaborate with KCATA, IRIS, and other providers to offer free rides to polling places on November 5, 2024. - Councilman Willett expressed concern about a previous partnership with the National Pan‑Hellenic Council (whose PAC endorsed a presidential candidate) and asked for committee review. Other members (Mayor Pro Tem, Councilman Curls, Councilwoman Boo, Mayor Lucas) argued the resolution was separate and non‑partisan, noting it could help underserved areas. - Motion to consider same‑day passed 12‑1 (Willett in opposition). The resolution then adopted 12‑1 (Willett abstained). - Peregrine Software Funding (Ordinance 240920): $300,000 from Violence Prevention and Intervention Fund for police data software (Peregrine). The police foundation is raising an additional $1.7 million. - Councilman Raya (sponsor) cited a 40% homicide clearance improvement in Albuquerque. Councilwoman Robinson and Councilman Duncan opposed on principle, arguing the software is a core police function that should be in the regular budget, not a mid‑year ask from a special fund. Mayor Lucas noted the nexus with the focus‑deterrence program (Safe KC). - Roll call vote: 11 ayes, 1 nay (Robinson), 1 abstention (Duncan). Passed. - Flavored Tobacco Ban (Ordinance 240897): Mayor Pro Tem moved to hold the item off the docket to allow further collaboration with business owners and health organizations. No vote was taken; the item was held without objection. - Rezoning for Mixed‑Use Building (Ordinance 240851): Rezone 2.89 acres near Maplewoods Community College to allow a three‑story, 45,000 sq. ft. building with 30 residential units and 15,000 sq. ft. commercial space. Traffic concerns with the college were resolved. Passed unanimously (13‑0). - Meeting Time Changes (Ordinances 240960 and 240961): First ordinance moved the regular legislative session start from 3 p.m. to 2 p.m. Second ordinance moved the business session start to 1 p.m. Both were adopted unanimously after waiving charter requirements. - Parking Garage Development Agreement (Ordinance 240962, late docket): Introduced and referred to the Finance, Governance, and Public Safety Committee for a parking garage serving the 18th and Vine District. Key Outcomes - Recognitions: Orley McKenzie and Richard Allen were honored; both resolutions adopted unanimously. - Free Transit Resolution: Adopted 12‑1 (Willett abstained). Implementation directed to the city manager. - Peregrine Software Funding: Approved 11‑1‑1 (Robinson no, Duncan abstained). City contribution of $300,000 from Violence Prevention Fund. - Meeting Time Changes: Both ordinances passed unanimously (13‑0). Starting times changed to 2 p.m. (legislative) and 1 p.m. (business) effective immediately. - Flavored Tobacco Ban: Held off docket for further stakeholder discussions. - Consent and Advanced Items: All approved unanimously (13‑0) except as noted. - Referrals: Ordinance 240919 was referred back to Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee at Councilman Willett’s request (no objection). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:45 p.m.

The Kansas City Council met on October 24, 2024, to receive updates on the Cold Weather Shelter Plan and the Drinking Water Service Line Inventory. The meeting began with approval of minutes from the October 3, 2024 business session. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 3, 2024): Motion moved, seconded, and passed unanimously with all members voting aye. Discussion Items Cold Weather Shelter Plan Update - Deputy Director Deion Lewis and Homeless Prevention Coordinator Josh Hinges presented the 2024–2025 cold weather shelter plan. The plan aims for a standardized, collaborative approach to connect unsheltered individuals to resources during extreme cold. - Bed availability (minimum floor): - December 1 (calendar-based): baseline openings - At 25°F: additional 55 beds - At 0°F: additional 100 beds (total minimum 400 beds) - Partners include Hope Faith, True Light, Unity Southeast, Hope City, Shelter KC, City Union Mission, Attorney Point, Cross Lines, and new partner Relentless Pursuit Outreach and Recovery (human trafficking support). Medical support provided by Care Beyond the Boulevard. - Data challenges: Staff estimated 3,000 people experiencing homelessness in Kansas City based on available data, but noted that privately funded shelters are not required to share real-time bed counts. The city uses a street outreach app (“Show the Way”) but cannot mandate participation from non-funded organizations. A 2024 UMKC study identified 240 organizations serving the homeless, but staff cautioned that self-reported data is often inaccurate (e.g., zero actual homeless shelters in KCK despite reported six). - Council questions and concerns: - Councilmember Robinson asked about Northland coverage (likely three locations, one with up to 80 beds) and transportation planning. Staff said they rely on free public transit and coordinated transport via Attorney Point navigation center. - Councilmember Pro Tem questioned the gap between 400 beds and the estimated 3,000 unsheltered population, and pressed for a comprehensive bed inventory from all providers. Staff stated that private organizations are reluctant to share data, but a public website (findhelp.org) lists services. - Councilmember Duncan noted the need for clear definitions of “shelter” and “outreach” to avoid misleading counts. - Councilmember Robinson requested a breakdown of provider funding requests vs. actual allocations, and staff agreed to provide a follow-up. Drinking Water Service Line Inventory Update - Water Director Ken Morgan and Deputy Director Jeff Martin presented the EPA-mandated inventory of water service line materials. - Key statistics: - 127,000 non-lead service lines (copper or plastic) - 23,000 galvanized lines - 27,000 unknown lines - Zero known lead lines - The initial inventory was submitted to the Department of Natural Resources on October 16, 2024 (meeting the deadline). A customer-facing map is live on the KC Water website. - Next steps: By November 15, 2024, the city will mail notification letters to 60,000 property owners with unknown or galvanized lines. Letters will include health information and translations via website. - Long-term: Identification of unknown lines via pilot test neighborhoods (starting early 2025) with full replacement program to be completed within 13 years. - Cost concerns: Full replacement of a service line is estimated at $10,000–$15,000 per line. The current rule does not require property owners to replace their portion, but the city must notify and encourage replacement. - Councilmembers questioned the effectiveness of mail-only outreach, especially for residents without water service or those who ignore mail. Staff committed to providing fact sheets for council distribution, door hangers in pilot areas, and participation in community meetings. The Office of Language Access will be utilized. Key Outcomes - Minutes from October 3, 2024 approved unanimously. - No formal votes were taken on the updates; the council received the information and directed staff to provide follow-up data on provider funding gaps and a comprehensive bed inventory. - KC Water will proceed with the November 15 mailer and continue community engagement, including pilot identification programs in early 2025. - The meeting adjourned without further business.

The Kansas City Council met on October 10, 2024, with 11 members present. The meeting included special action proclamations, final readings of ordinances, and the introduction of new items. Key actions included adopting resolutions recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Digital Inclusion Week, passing ordinances to fund a future detention center land purchase and a firefighters' pay scale, and re-referring a flavored tobacco ban for further review. Consent Calendar - 240904: Appointing Sydney Smith as a member of the police retirement board. Passed with 12 ayes. Special Actions (Proclamations) - 240915: Councilwoman French presented a proclamation declaring October 2024 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. She noted that one in eight people are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and highlighted early detection. Several council members shared personal stories of family survivors. The resolution was adopted. - 240906: Councilman Curls commemorated October 7–11 as National Digital Inclusion Week, recognizing organizations like Goodwill, Kansas City Public Library, and Literacy KC for closing the digital divide. Council members expressed support, noting that over 118,000 people in the region lost connectivity support when the Affordable Connectivity Program ended. The resolution was adopted. - Pure Pitch Rally Day: Mayor Pro Tem recognized the ninth annual Pure Pitch Rally on October 21, which provides free training to over 72 startups since 2017. The proclamation was adopted. Discussion Items - 240894: Directing the city manager to study the feasibility of a city-operated DMV office. Councilman Raya noted only one DMV office exists within city limits. Others cited similar city-operated offices in other Missouri municipalities. Passed with 12 ayes. - 240892: Directing the city manager to analyze city-owned property for a community resource center supporting housing and mental health services. Passed with 11 ayes. - 240893: Expressing support for a $7 million HUD grant to remove barriers to affordable housing. Passed. - 240596: Amending the code to move municipal judges from the elected officials money purchase plan to the employees' retirement system. Passed 11-1. - 240884: Authorizing an option to purchase 23 acres from Jackson County for $2.3 million for a future detention center, contingent on a public safety sales tax. Passed 11-1. - 240891: Enacting a new pay scale per the collective bargaining agreement with firefighters (IAFF Local 42) and appropriating $16,052,914 from general fund balance. Passed unanimously. - 240900: Approving the 15th amendment to the Parvin Road Corridor TIF plan. Passed 11-1. - 240723: Authorizing the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to administer the Central City Economic Development Sales Tax. Passed 11-1. - 240889: Rezoning 2.29 acres at 5005 North Brighton Avenue to allow a mobile vendor park. Passed unanimously. - 240890: Rezoning about three acres at East U.S. 40 Highway and Phelps Road for vehicle sales. Passed unanimously. - 240895: Approving $796,400 in neighborhood source development funds for 72 nonprofit projects. Passed unanimously. - 240897: A proposal to ban flavored tobacco, nicotine, and vapor products. Mayor Pro Tem moved to re-refer to committee for further review; the motion passed. Key Outcomes - Approved ordinances: All final reading items on the debate docket passed as noted above, with most receiving near-unanimous support. - Re-referred: The flavored tobacco ban (240897) was sent back to the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee due to potential amendments. - New introductions: Four ordinances were introduced as first readings and referred to committees: - 240920: $300,000 for violence prevention software (Police Foundation). - 240921: Capital repairs plan for 18th and Vine Museum and Mohart Center. - 240923: Amending Westport Main General Development Plan timeline. - 240924: Directing a home ownership assistance program report. - Charter requirement waived: A motion to waive three-reading requirements for ordinances on committee advances passed unanimously.