Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City Council held a Business Session on July 25, 2024, at 1:30 PM in the Council Chamber. The primary agenda item was the introduction of economic development consultants Angelou Economics, led by Councilwoman Andrea Boo (6th District At-Large). The council also approved previous minutes, discussed potential floor introductions, and voted to enter closed session. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes for the Business Session of July 18, 2024, was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - Introduction of Economic Development Consultants (Angelou Economics) Councilwoman Andrea Boo introduced the consultants, noting they would meet individually with council members the following week. Matt Patton, Executive Vice President of Angelou Economics, presented the firm’s background and proposed approach. He described the evolution of economic development from 1.0 (company attraction) to 3.0 (building resilience, complete communities, diverse supply chains, workforce alignment, and destination development). The process will involve stakeholder interviews, a SWOT analysis, and development of an implementation strategy with a timeline of approximately five months. Deliverables include an economic landscape report (one month), stakeholder engagement summary (two months), a codified interpretation of economic development (three and a half months), an action plan (four months), and a draft policy (five months). - Council Member Questions and Comments - Councilman Raya (4th District) asked how the process would address development in underserved communities and internal bureaucratic processes (e.g., permitting). Matt Patton responded that they would learn from each district’s needs and cited examples from Dallas and Beaumont. He emphasized streamlining permitting and providing dedicated liaisons. Councilwoman Boo added that stakeholder identification would aim to include underrepresented groups. - Councilwoman Robinson stressed the need for an explicit definition of equity and intentional closing of the wealth gap. She requested that the literature review include documents that guide equitable economic development. Councilwoman Boo acknowledged that the council would need to define equitable economic development as part of the vision. - Councilman Duncan referenced Nashville’s displacement of black communities and urged that the plan prevent displacement of black, brown, and working-class residents. He noted the city’s high number of households with disposable income under $15,000 and emphasized that economic development should serve all, especially the most vulnerable. - Councilwoman Willow asked if other cities had formally defined equitable economic development. Matt Patton replied that while equity was discussed in past projects (e.g., Beaumont), it had not been formally articulated in final documentation, and he looked forward to working with the council on that. - Floor Introductions The mayor noted a potential floor introduction related to West Bottoms redevelopment, but no additional items were introduced on the floor. Key Outcomes - The council heard the presentation from Angelou Economics and will hold individual breakout sessions the following week (starting August 1, 2024). - A motion to go into closed session to discuss legal matters and contract negotiations (pursuant to §610.021(1) and (12) RSMo) was made, seconded, and passed unanimously on a roll call vote (12 members present, all in favor). The meeting then adjourned to closed session. - No formal votes were taken on the economic development consultant’s proposal; the process is ongoing with a five-month timeline for a draft policy.

The Kansas City Council convened on July 25, 2024, with 13 members present. The meeting began with an invocation and pledge, followed by the holding of one ordinance (240599) for one week, and then a series of special actions recognizing retiring city employees and community advocates. Council then passed numerous ordinances related to infrastructure, grants, and development, and debated a resolution to install speed humps, ultimately amending it to allow for additional humps beyond the original 100. Consent Calendar (Routine Approvals and Unanimous Actions) - Special Actions (all adopted unanimously): - Recognizing Michael Gamaldi for 50+ years of service (240579) - Honoring Alicia Phillips on her retirement after 30 years with Public Works (240617) - Recognizing Jeffrey Williams for 30+ years as director of city plan development (240623) - Honoring the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City as host of the 45th annual U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce National Conference (Oct 6–8, 2024) (240643) - Honoring Connie Farrakhan on her retirement after 29 years at the Health Department (240644) - Honoring Daryl Love on his retirement after 27 years with Convention and Entertainment Facilities (240645) - Honoring the life of Charles “Charlie” Alveralona, West Side community advocate (240646) - Ordinances passed on consent/advance (all with 11–12 ayes): - 240546: EPA Brownfield RLF supplemental grant of $3.5 million (earmarked for cleanup, no match required) - 240547: Additional EPA Brownfield RLF grant of $1 million - 240603: Area plan amendment at 521 Campbell Street - 240592/240593: Plat approvals for residential subdivisions - 240600: First amendment to West Bottoms TIF plan (removing a funding source) - 240581: Establishment of West Bottoms Central Community Improvement District (27-year term, up to 1% sales tax and special assessments) - 240583: CDC grant of $739,567 for public health foundational capabilities - 240584: $240,000 contract amendment for BAM/WOW youth program - 240604: Rezoning at 521 Campbell Street - 240605: Designation of Carmen Building to Kansas City Register of Historic Places - 240607: HUD Shelter Care Plus grant of $499,276 for housing assistance for people with HIV - 240615: Rezoning 15.3 acres for 150 residential units - 240522: Reconnecting Communities pilot grant of $1,158,620 for West Side Study - 240587: $1,105,746 design contract for Blue River Odor Control Phase 2/3 - 240588: $1,555,700 construction contract for KCI water main replacement - 240589: $171,331 amendment for airport storm sewer design - 240590: $1,036,363 contract for storm sewer improvements at Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport - 240594: $3,997,500 contract for KCI overhaul base roof repair - 240597: $777,450 amendment for roof condition investigation at KCI - 240598: $5,674,530 construction contract for water main replacement (Warnell Road to Oak Street) - 240608: $12 million design contract for Smart Sewer program management - 240610: $342,200 grant for Blue River Trail Martha Truman Connector - 240611: $751,978 amendment for Green Infrastructure at Mill Creek Park - 240613: $799,500 contract for water treatment plant basin cleaning Discussion Items - Ordinance 240599 (Marijuana Facilities): A request to hold the item for one week was granted without objection; no discussion took place. - Speed Hump Resolution (240591): Council debated a resolution to adopt a plan for installing 100 speed humps in 2024 using Vision Zero funding. Some council members noted that not all resident requests go through the 311 system and requested additional humps for their districts. After discussion, the resolution was amended to delete the specific number “100” and instead allow speed humps to be added pursuant to criteria in the plan. The amendment passed 11–1, and the amended resolution passed 12–0. Key Outcomes - Held: Ordinance 240599 (marijuana facility distances) – held for one week; will return at next council meeting. - Adopted: All special actions (7) – unanimous. - Adopted: All consent and advance docket ordinances (24 items) – passed with 11–12 ayes each. - Amended and Adopted: Resolution 240591 (speed hump plan) – amended to remove the fixed number of 100 humps, allowing additional installations based on adopted criteria. Final vote 12–0. - New Business Introduced (referred to committee): - 240647: Establishing fund for West Bottoms Phase 1 project ($14.8 million) - 240648: Funding for bike/pedestrian bridge project ($3.5 million in contributions plus $7.3 million in bond proceeds) - Semi-Annual Docket: All ordinances and resolutions more than six months old were released from the docket and deemed lost, per council rule 7.07.

On July 24, 2024, the Kansas City Council held a legislative session focused on KC 2026, the organization coordinating the region’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup in 2026. Pam Kramer, Executive Director of KC 2026, and Karen Daniel, Chair of the Board, attended to answer council questions. The council did not receive a formal presentation but used the time to inquire about small business inclusion, transportation planning, training facilities, community engagement, fundraising, and legacy projects. No formal votes were taken. Small Business Inclusion and Community Engagement - Councilman Reha raised concerns from the Hispanic business community about equitable access to World Cup opportunities. Kramer stated that KC 2026’s procurement policy prioritizes regional and local providers and that a portion of city funding is designated for small business capacity. A working group on small business will be formed to engage diverse communities. - Councilman Bunge asked how immigrant and refugee youth, such as those from a championship soccer team at East High School, will be included. Kramer cited FANFEST, volunteer opportunities, and events leading up to the tournament as avenues for connection and participation, but could not provide specific program examples at this time. - Mayor Pro Tem pointed out the existing Small Business Task Force (created after the NFL Draft) and encouraged collaboration. Councilman Ray asked for more details; Kramer noted that in August 2024, the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce will convene all regional chambers to share information and develop a small business toolkit. - Councilman Curtles asked about community engagement timelines. Kramer reported that three working groups (FANFEST, arts and culture, transportation) have been approved by the board, with chairs expected to be named by September 2024. Transportation Planning - Councilman Bunge asked for an update on the transportation planning RFP. Kramer said over 45 firms were represented in proposals, which have been narrowed to three. Interviews will be conducted the following week, with a selection committee including city, KCATA, and bi-state representatives. - Councilman Duncan asked when the transportation plan would be available. Kramer stated a timeline will be released by the end of 2024, after the consultant helps determine the concept of operations. Funding sources may include KC26, shared costs, or other entities; the full scope of additional city funding is not yet known. Training Facilities and Legacy Projects - Councilman Willard inquired about possible training facilities at institutions like the University of Missouri (Columbia) or Missouri Western. Kramer explained that site selection is a three-way process involving FIFA, the facility, and KC26. She confirmed conversations with the University of Missouri took place, but did not know the content. No decision on legacy projects has been made; legacy could be infrastructure or operational systems. Fundraising and Staffing Diversity - Councilman Curtles asked about private fundraising. Kramer noted that the ability to sell host city rights began only in late May 2024 (after city agreement finalization), so sponsorship plans are now being formulated, including for FANFEST. - Mayor Lucas asked about diverse hiring for KC 2026 staff. Kramer said it is a priority and that upcoming staffing announcements will reflect that. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken during the discussion. - KC 2026 committed to providing quarterly financial updates to the council as required. - The council and KC26 agreed to continue engagement, with KC26 offering to return for deeper dives as needed. - Timelines: Transportation plan milestones by December 2024; working group chairs named by September 2024; business outreach meeting in August 2024.

The City Council of Kansas City, Missouri, held a business session on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting focused on updates regarding two moratoriums—gasoline/fuel sales and liquor licenses—set to expire on August 8, 2024, and a planned presentation on World Cup 2026 (not covered in the open session). The council approved the minutes from the June 27, 2024 business session and heard presentations from city staff, the police department, and the regulated industries division. No formal votes were taken on the moratorium extensions; the discussion was informational and directional. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 27, 2024: Approved unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - Gasoline & Fuel Sales Moratorium Update: Staff from City Planning (Andrew Clark), KCPD (Officer Jeff Krebs), Regulated Industries (Jim Reddy), and Environmental Quality (Andy Seps) presented findings: - Environmental concerns: Air quality risks related to ozone attainment status; underground storage tank leaks; potential for non-attainment area designation by EPA, imposing stricter regulations. - Public safety: KCPD presented a heat map showing high call volumes within 100 feet of gas stations; risk terrain modeling identified gas stations as a current risk factor. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) recommendations include improved lighting, window transparency, and site layout. - Zoning recommendations: Propose requiring special use permits for new gas stations citywide to increase public engagement, along with distance requirements (2,000 feet from another gas station, 200 feet from residential zones). - Next steps: Extend the moratorium for 60 days (to October 7, 2024); finalize ordinance changes; present to City Plan Commission and council committees. - Liquor License Moratorium Update: Jim Reddy outlined proposed ordinance changes: - Live entertainment: Applicants for a restaurant/bar with live entertainment must go through the density process; live entertainment is now defined consistently. - Neighborhood engagement: Eligible neighborhood organizations (registered with the city) can submit written opposition or approval statements; applicants cannot give anything of value to voters or organizations. - Waiver criteria: New criteria for considering waivers when a proposed license is in an area with four or more existing licenses within 750 feet. - Background checks: Clarified that background checks must cover owners, partners, officers, directors, and shareholders holding 10% or more interest, per state law. - Councilmember questions: - Councilman Ram asked about prohibiting alcohol sales at gas stations; staff noted no current hard prohibition, but extra criteria (e.g., four licenses within 750 feet) could be considered. - Councilman Bone inquired about the city’s legal ability to further restrict liquor sales at gas stations; staff confirmed the city can be more restrictive than state law. - Councilman Willard raised the issue of regulating single-serve alcohol containers (e.g., shooters); staff shared past research showing bans lead to larger purchases (e.g., two-packs, wine) and may not reduce consumption. - Councilwoman Bunch suggested simply prohibiting single-serve sales at gas stations; staff noted this could apply to future licenses but not necessarily existing ones. - World Cup 2026 Update: The agenda included this item, but the open session adjourned to closed session before it was presented. No discussion occurred in the open meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes on the proposed ordinance changes or moratorium extensions were taken during the open session. - Councilman Curls stated the presentations were a first step and encouraged input for future revisions. - The meeting moved into closed session for legal, contract, real estate, and personnel matters after the moratorium update. - Staff indicated that final ordinance recommendations would be brought to the City Plan Commission, a council committee, and then full council for consideration.

The Kansas City Council met on July 18, 2024, at 10:30 AM. The meeting included special recognitions, final readings of ordinances, and debate on multiple items. All 12 members were present. The council adopted several resolutions and ordinances, including emergency response plans, heat index guidelines, water bill payment drop boxes, and development projects. Special Actions - 240578: Recognizing Catrice Tolbert for completing the KC Second Chance Re-entry Program. Councilman Rogers and Judge Corey Carter spoke about the program's success. Tolbert's message was read, highlighting her recovery and reintegration. - 240580: Honoring Daniel Frederick Harrell, an 11-year-old volunteer at KC Pet Project, for 195 volunteer hours. Councilman Raya noted the pet overpopulation crisis and encouraged more volunteers. - 240616: Honoring the Just Us system for building a law school pipeline for underserved youth. Councilwoman Robinson and students spoke about the program's impact. Consent Calendar (Advanced Consent Docket) The council approved multiple ordinances on consent, including: - Rezoning and development plans for industrial and commercial projects (240521, 240540, etc.) - Grant amendments for health programs (240548, 240555, 240562, etc.) - Concession agreement with Reach TV (240538) - Various other routine items. Discussion Items - 240573: Directing city manager to develop emergency response plan for life-threatening situations in multi-unit buildings (passed 13-0). - 240574: Directing development of heat index guidelines for city employees (passed 13-0). - 240527: Committee substitute amended to include additional criteria for water bill drop box locations; passed 13-0. - 240552-240570: Various finance and public safety ordinances, including audit contract, ARPA fund reappropriation, union agreement, socially responsible banking, election worker protection, police foundation funding, etc. All passed. - 240541: Contract amendment with UMKC for violence prevention evaluation. An amendment was passed to require council approval for future contract changes (striking "out" from "without further council approval"). Passed 11-0. - 240565: Approval of development plan for 184-unit residential mixed-use building at 16th and Holmes (passed 12-0). - 240569: Rezoning for a mobile home park (157 units) near the sports complex. Passed 11-1, with Councilman Duncan voting no citing lack of renter protections. - 240575: Amending healthy homes ordinance to require notification of HVAC outages (passed 13-0). - 240536, 240537, 240557: Water main replacement and trail funding contracts (all passed). Key Outcomes - All ordinances on the agenda were adopted, except 240504 (2024 Action Plan) which was held until next week. - Amendment to 240541 passed, requiring future contract changes to have council approval. - The mobile home park ordinance (240569) passed with one dissenting vote. - The council also waived reading requirements for second and first readings, advancing items to next week.

The meeting convened at 8:15 PM on June 27, 2024. The only available transcription contains a brief remark: 'I think that we go to cross session.' This suggests a procedural transition to a cross session (possibly a committee or work session). No agenda or minutes were available, and no other discussion or decisions were recorded. Discussion Items - No substantive discussion items were transcribed. Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions were recorded in the available transcription.

The Kansas City Council convened on June 27, 2024, with 12 members present. The meeting included special recognitions, debate and votes on multiple ordinances, and first readings of salary and policy items. Consent Calendar (Special Actions) - 240535: Recognized We Code KC and established June 29, 2024 as Kids Tech Day. Adopted unanimously. - 240545: Honored Patricia Humme on her retirement after 17 years with the Health Department. Adopted unanimously. - 240560: Recognized Stonewall Sports KC on its 5th anniversary. Adopted unanimously. - 240571: Recognized Tom Guerin, Director of the Kansas City Streetcar Authority, for 10 years of service. Adopted unanimously. Discussion Items - 240529: Directed the City Manager to develop a strategic sustainability plan for the Community Action Network (CAN) centers and report back within 120 days. Adopted unanimously. - 240530: Directed the City Manager to evaluate the needs of the city's trans community and identify funding sources within 180 days. Debated: Councilwoman Patterson Hasley initially opposed citing existing needs assessments but later supported after assurances of avoiding duplication. Adopted with 11 votes in favor and 1 opposed (Councilman Willett). - 240520: Approved an amendment to the Truman Road area plan from residential to mixed-use at 5716 Scarrit Avenue for a historic building reuse. Adopted unanimously. - 240515 and related consent items: Approved workers' compensation settlement, health department grants, and other routine contracts. All adopted with one nay (Willett) except where noted. - 240507: Accepted the FY2023 Bureau of Justice Assistance Grant ($315,838) and authorized subaward to KC Metropolitan Crime Commission ($150,000). Adopted unanimously. - 240525: Authorized a three-year ticketing services agreement with Ticketmaster (with extension option). Adopted 9-3, with Councilmen Bunch, Curls, and Willett voting no. - 240343: Removed 128th Street from the Major Street Plan to facilitate data center development. Adopted unanimously. - 240429 and 240430: Street vacation for the former Denny's site near the Performing Arts Center. Held on the semi-annual docket pending a development plan, after Councilman Bunch requested delay. - 240447: Amended Chapter 88 to require half of tree planting fees be spent in the district where trees were removed (committee substitute). Debated: Councilman Willett sponsors; opponents (Duncan and Lucas) argued the original citywide approach better served equity. Adopted 10-2. - 240509: Approved a major amendment to allow a daycare center at 9880 North Cedar Avenue. Adopted unanimously. - 240510: Rezoned to allow a larger menu board sign for Culver's at NE 97th Street. Adopted 11-1 (one nay). - 240528: Rezoned 4.6 acres for Avila University student housing. Adopted unanimously. - 240517: Amended Chapter 70 on parking administration and enforcement, including event rate pricing. Adopted unanimously. - 240518: Appropriated $5 million for the US 71 Highway Reconnecting Neighborhoods project (PEL study) and authorized design services. Adopted unanimously. - 240519: Authorized design services for North Oak Traffic Rail improvements. Adopted unanimously. Key Outcomes - All special actions were adopted unanimously. - The street vacation items (240429/240430) were held on the semi-annual docket for further development plan review. - The tree planting fund ordinance (240447) passed with a 10-2 vote, directing half of fee revenue to the district of tree removal and half citywide. - The trans community needs assessment resolution (240530) passed despite concerns about duplication, with a commitment to coordinate with existing studies. - The Ticketmaster contract passed 9-3. - First readings were introduced for salary ordinances for the City Clerk (7% increase, reappointment) and City Auditor (3.5% increase, reappointment), both advanced and passed unanimously. - Multiple from-the-floor ordinances were introduced and referred to committee, including one on emergency response plans for multi-unit buildings and a heat-related ordinance.

The Kansas City City Council held a business session on June 13, 2024. The meeting included approval of minutes from June 6, 2024, a closed session vote, recognition of a delegation from Xi'an, China for the 35th anniversary of the sister cities relationship, and a detailed presentation from the Kansas City Fire Department on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Council members asked questions about metrics, training, and follow-up on previous concerns. A same-day adoption ordinance regarding severance and certain city employee issues was introduced. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the minutes from the business session of June 6, 2024. Discussion Items - Closed Session Motion: Councilman O'Neill moved to go into closed session to discuss legal matters, litigation, privileged communications with attorneys, personnel matters, and confidential communications with auditors, citing Missouri statutes. The motion passed, with Councilman Duncan voting no. - Recognition of Xi'an, China Delegation: The council welcomed a delegation from Xi'an, China, Kansas City's sister city, to celebrate the 35th anniversary of their relationship. Mr. Mike Wood of the Society for Friendship with China introduced the delegation. Mr. Ma, director of the sports authority in Xi'an, spoke through a translator, thanking the council and noting the milestone of 35 years of exchanges in sports, culture, education, and more. The delegation participated in the 20th Dragon Boat Festival on the Plaza. - Kansas City Fire Department DEI Initiatives: Chief Krista Harris, Captain Donnell Roberts, and Chief Equity Officer Dana McCullough presented an overview of DEI efforts since 2022. Key initiatives included: - Mentorship program: 159 cadets with mentors, 63 mentors. - Extended CPAT preparation from 8 to 16 weeks. - Critical thinking testing program for EMT. - Tutoring, refresher training, and financial support for cadets (payroll deduction for Fire 1 & 2 courses). - Fitness trainers for CPAT training. - DEI training for academy instructors. - Professional development: Captain Academy, Battalion Chiefs Academy, DEI training class (completed April 2024), OJT reinstated. - Safety changes: policy to stop at all stop signs/lights, women-specific protective gear, shaving accommodations for natural hair. - Station renovations: full remodels for Stations 47, 30, and planned for others; bunk room remodeling with floor-to-ceiling walls and doors by 2025. - DEI council created to review policies through an equity lens. - Zero tolerance policy reinforcement, elimination of shift trades outside seniority bidding process, women-specific uniforms. - Recruitment: lateral transfers for credentialed cadets, career development manual, partnerships with MCC and others, new hiring and promotional test vendors, career exploratory courses in high schools, partnerships with PrEP KC, FEC, Great Jobs KC, UMKC, and military. - ERGs encouraged but not yet formally established; groups forming with at least 20 members each from various cultural backgrounds. - Council Questions: - Councilmember Mayor Pro Tem asked about the status of 10 points raised previously by the Black Firefighters Association; no immediate answer, follow-up requested via email. - Asked about ERGs; none formally established yet, but groups are forming unofficially. - Questioned the DEI council's scope and how it ensures staff can raise concerns. Chief Harris noted the council reviews selected policies, but scope may need expansion. Chief Equity Officer Dana McCullough noted that equity capacity building has not yet occurred and recommended it before policy review. - Councilman Duncan asked for tracking metrics; currently no metrics exist, but a plan is needed. He requested metrics be developed. - Councilman Ram expressed appreciation for the department's diversity efforts, citing participation in the Pride Parade. Key Outcomes - The health department prevention update was deferred to a later meeting. - The council requested additional information on the status of previous concerns from the Black Firefighters Association and on DEI metrics and training strategies. - A same-day adoption ordinance relating to severance and certain city employee issues was introduced for floor discussion. - The council stood adjourned to begin legislative session.

The Kansas City City Council convened on June 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM. The meeting opened with an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by roll call (11 members present). The council adopted several resolutions declaring special days, approved consent and debate docket items, and amended ordinances related to street naming and other matters. Consent Calendar - 240495: Consenting to the appointment of Mario Vasquez as a member and Dan Fowler as an alternate member to the Kansas City TIFF Commission. Passed unanimously (11 ayes). - 240482: Authorizing settlement in lawsuit PM Williams v. City of Kansas City for $1,500,000. Passed. - 240487: Approving plat of North Stark Villas addition in Clay County (17 acres, 36 lots, 40 tracts). Passed. - 240489: Approving plat of Berkeley Riverfront East addition in Jackson County (28 acres) for casino redevelopment. Passed. - 240490: Approving plat of Boardwalk Business Park 2nd plat (87 acres, 5 lots). Passed. - 240492: Authorizing $1,650,000 construction contract with Lethal Sons for water main repairs, with future options up to $8,250,000. Passed unanimously (11 ayes). - 240493: Authorizing $194,728 change order for water main replacement project (total $10,196,330). Passed unanimously. - 240497: Supporting city's grant application for EPA Environmental Climate Justice grant. Passed (10 ayes). - 240496: Approving amendment to Truman Plaza Area Plan from light industrial to mixed use community (22 acres at 601 Hardesty). Passed unanimously. - 240466: Approving major amendment to Dolphin Pan development plan for 127 residential units. Passed unanimously. - 240468: Cleanup ordinance for departmental functions (permitting). Passed unanimously. - 240488: Rezoning 22 acres at 601 Hardesty from UR/EM1-5 to UR, approving development plan. Passed unanimously. - 240491: Vacation of public right-of-way for Bally's Casino (80,783 sq ft). Passed unanimously. - 240505: Declaring June 15, 2024 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day in Kansas City. Adopted unanimously. - 240506: Declaring June 15, 2024 as Dragon Boat Festival Day. Adopted unanimously. - 240526: Declaring June 17, 2024 as Justin Reed Day. Adopted unanimously. - 240532: Celebrating Juneteenth 2024. Adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Elder Abuse Awareness: Tina Yurige (Director of Clay County Senior Services) highlighted that in Kansas City, Missouri, there were 3,138 hotline reports of elder abuse. She noted top concerns: self-neglect, financial exploitation, caregiver neglect, and physical abuse. Councilman Rogers' remarks: one in ten Americans aged 60+ have experienced abuse; 36.5 billion dollars annual cost; approximately two-thirds of abusers are adult family members. Councilman Ray and others expressed support for elder abuse prevention. - Dragon Boat Festival: Michael Wood and others presented for the resolution, celebrating 35-year sister city agreement with Xi'an, China. - Justin Reed Day: Karen (representing Justin Reed) accepted the resolution, noting Reed's charity work and the Jay Reed Indeed Foundation. Councilman Willett praised Reed's community contributions. - Juneteenth: Councilman Curls presented the resolution. Councilwoman Patterson-Hasley noted she wore a Union Army pin. Mayor Pro Tem and others expressed support. Employee resource group ASSET (African American Support Success Encouragement Team) thanked the council. Discussion Items - Ordinance 240351 – Street Renaming Amendment: This ordinance repealed and replaced section 88-605-03 to require city council approval for street renamings, including honorary street name designations. A debate arose over whether the Street Naming Committee should make a "recommendation when needed" or a "report to council." Councilman Bunch moved to amend the language to "make reports to council" instead of "recommendation when needed." The amendment passed (8 ayes, 3 nays). The amended ordinance then passed (10 ayes, 1 nay). - Ordinance 240533 – Pedestrian Crossing Signals: Councilman Bunch requested an ordinance prepared too late for docket, instituting policies on pedestrian crossing signals and requiring updates every 45 days to the Transportation Committee. Referred to committee. - Ordinance 240534 – Severance Provision: Councilman O'Neill requested an ordinance appropriating $300,000 and establishing a severance provision tool with a sunset. The charter requirement for three readings was waived, and the ordinance passed unanimously (11 ayes). - Ordinance 240497 – EPA Grant Support: Councilman Ray noted the grant could invest millions into east side neighborhoods. Passed (10 ayes). - Ordinance 240496 – Truman Plaza Area Plan: Mayor Pro Tem explained the rezoning for mixed-use development (residential, retail, daycare). Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 240492 – Water Main Repairs: Councilman O'Neill described scheduled and emergency repairs to transmission mains. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 240619 – Water Supply Resiliency Plan: Councilman O'Neill introduced a design contract with HDR Engineering for a new water treatment plant in the East Bottoms, noting the existing plant is over 100 years old. Councilman Duncan cautioned about future costs and ratepayer impact. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 240502 – Hate Offense Enhancement: Councilman Ray reminded that the council previously passed an ordinance for criminal enhancement for hate-motivated crimes. This amendment added an additional ordinance violation to reporting requirements and directed KCPD training. Passed (10 ayes, 1 nay). - Ordinance 240499 – Starlight Theatre Tax Redirection: Councilman Ray explained redirection of 100% of certain sales taxes (1% capital improvement, 2.5% public safety, 2% convention and tourism) generated by the Starlight Theatre complex to repay a bridge loan. Passed (10 ayes, 1 nay). Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolutions: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15), Dragon Boat Festival Day (June 15), Justin Reed Day (June 17), and Juneteenth celebration (June 19) – all unanimous. - Passed Ordinances: All consent and debate docket items passed, including settlement, plats, contracts, tax redirection, and hate crime enhancement. - Street Naming Amendment: Amended to require a report from the Street Naming Committee to council, then passed 10-1. - Pedestrian Crossing Signals Ordinance: Referred to committee. - Severance Provision Ordinance: Passed unanimously with a sunset provision. - Council suspended rule to allow more than three special actions at the meeting (motion passed 9-0 after roll call). - Next Steps: City manager directed to submit EPA grant application; periodic updates on pedestrian crossing signals every 45 days to Transportation Committee.