Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City City Council held a business session on January 25, 2024, starting at 2:00 PM. The meeting covered several key topics: an update on snow removal operations during a 14-15 day cold snap, the city's cold weather shelter plan for people experiencing homelessness, and a presentation from the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) on a landfill capacity study. The session began with approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Approved the Minutes of the Business Session of January 11, 2024, by voice vote (unanimous). Discussion Items Snow Removal & Cold Weather Shelter Update - Melissa Kazakowitz and Public Works Director Michael Shaw reported on the city's winter weather response. Over 14-15 days, crews used 16,000 tons of salt, spent 21,000 man-hours, operated 103 routes, and achieved bare pavement within 24 hours of each event. They highlighted improvements over past years, including nighttime plowing in residential areas, curb-to-curb plowing in neighborhoods, pre-treatment, and technology use. - Council members asked about salt expenses (50% used, 10,000 tons on order) and communication regarding trash delays due to extreme cold (below -15°F wind chill). The city will incorporate temperature-related service disruptions into routine communications. - Several councilors praised the snow response (Willard, Bunch, etc.) and noted responsiveness to constituent concerns. - Ms. Kazakowitz then presented the cold weather shelter program. In 2022, 5 locations with 154 beds operated Dec-Feb. In 2024, 10 locations with 450 beds operate Dec-Apr. From Nov 1 to Jan 21, the program served 1,338 unique individuals over 9,804 bed nights; during the Jan 1 cold snap alone, 856 individuals used 4,154 bed nights. - The council discussed Ordinance 240046, which would use ARP funds to renovate Hope Faith (an existing day shelter) into a year-round, 80-bed low-barrier emergency shelter. The procurement process limited community engagement until after council approval; some council members (Patterson) expressed concerns that neighborhoods felt the decision was predetermined and that engagement was insufficient. Councilman Ray and others advocated for deconcentrating beds across the city rather than placing all services in one neighborhood. The city manager noted that council has final authority and that other sites (e.g., Sam's Town Casino) are being explored but lack funding. MARC Regional Landfill Capacity Study - Tom Jacobs, Chief Resilience Officer at MARC, presented findings from a study by Burns & McDonnell. The study examined 7 landfills in the region and ran 11 scenarios. It concluded that remaining landfill capacity ranges from 19 to 37 years, depending on population growth, waste diversion rates, and potential new landfills (e.g., Presidio). - Council members raised concerns: Mayor Pro Tem warned that expanding trash cart service and eliminating bag limits could increase waste volume and shorten local landfill life (e.g., Johnson County, Courtney Ridge, Sedalia landfills projected to close around 2035-2037 under one scenario). Transporting waste farther could increase costs by up to 70%. Councilman Ray asked about the impact of the two-bag limit change and noted that the 19-year low end provides time for policy-driven decisions. Councilman Rogers requested data on where Kansas City's waste currently goes and the cost implications. - Jacobs emphasized that the study does not endorse any specific expansion or site but aims to inform regional solid waste planning. Developing a new landfill takes 5-10 years, so proactive planning is needed. Other Announcements - Mayor Lucas announced that the State of the City address will be held in person on February 7, 2024, at noon. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved. - City staff received direction to improve communication on weather-related service disruptions. - The council will consider Ordinance 240046 in the Finance Committee, with ongoing debate about community engagement and equitable distribution of shelter beds. - MARC will work on an update to the regional solid waste management plan, incorporating study findings. - No formal votes were taken on the snow, shelter, or landfill items; discussions were informational and directive.

The Kansas City Council met on January 25, 2024, to honor three community members, debate and pass a landmark ban on source-of-income discrimination in housing, direct the city manager to study a cognitive behavioral therapy crime prevention program, and approve numerous infrastructure and development projects. The meeting opened with a moment of recognition for Sister Berta Saylor, a longtime Operation Breakthrough leader, followed by special recognitions and a full agenda of ordinances. Special Recognitions - Mary Ruck (Commissioner of Revenue, retiring after 20 years): Councilwoman Boo detailed her achievements including increasing annual tax collections from $71,000 to $7.3 million via IRS matching data, implementing new tax regulations, and improving customer service. The council adopted the resolution unanimously. - Paul Durrell (founder of Leopold Gallery and benefactor of Paseo Academy): Recognized for raising $150,000 for Paseo Academy’s art department, taking 1,500 students on field trips, and helping 800 enroll in universities. Resolution adopted unanimously. - Cameron Saunders (dancer, performer on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour): Honored for his career as a black, plus-size, queer dancer and his training at UMKC. Resolution adopted unanimously. Consent Calendar - Appointments to Board of Zoning Adjustment and Kansas City National Airport Community Improvement District: Passed 11-1 (one nay). - Settlements and claims (items 240004–240008, 240013–240014): Approved unanimously. - Various zoning, development plans, and traffic regulations (items 240025, 240012, 240020, 240001, 240022, 240023, 240024, 240032, 240035, 240040, 240041, 240002, 240048, 2400026, 240034, 240037, 240038, 240039, 240044): All passed with near-unanimous votes (typically 11–0 or 12–0). Notable: item 240022 (vacation of right-of-way) passed 9-2; Councilman Bunch explained his support for the later vacations. Discussion Items - Ordinance 24043 – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Crime Prevention: Councilman Rea noted 182 homicides in 2023 and the prevalence of argument-driven violence. The ordinance directs the city manager to research and recommend a plan to implement cognitive behavioral therapy for at-risk individuals. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 231019 – Ban on Source-of-Income Discrimination in Housing: After months of negotiations and a collaborative amendment process, the council adopted a committee substitute amendment (13-0) and then passed the final ordinance 10-3. Key provisions: landlords may deny applications based on criminal convictions, credit score, recent evictions; violent/sexual offenses are grounds for denial; the effective date is delayed six months; the CREO director is limited in conducting systemic investigations. Council members praised the collaborative spirit. Voting no: O’Neill, Willett, Rogers. - Ordinance 24044 – Midtown Plaza Multifamily Funding: $750,000 for phases 3 and 4, originally committed in 2017. Passed unanimously. - Youth Commission Ordinance (240048): Repealed the old Kansas City Youth Commission and established the Kansas City Youth Commission, Kansas City Young Adult Commission, and KC Futures Commission. Passed 12-0. - Infrastructure contracts (water treatment, road improvements, airport projects): All approved unanimously. Councilman O’Neill presented most, including the water intake screen rehabilitation ($248,166), I&I reduction projects ($9.3M and $3.8M), and various airport facility contracts. Key Outcomes - Source-of-income discrimination ban passed (10-3) with a six-month delayed effective date. - Cognitive behavioral therapy crime prevention study directed (unanimous). - Youth and young adult commissions established (12-0). - $750,000 for Midtown Plaza approved (unanimous). - Charter reading requirements waived for ordinances on second and first readings (unanimous). - Semi-annual docket released; two ordinances (210697, 210698) retained in committee. - New ordinances referred: 240093 (budget analysis) to Finance; 240077 (neighborhood tourism fund) to Legal Review; 240094 (gentrification tracking) to Neighborhood Planning & Development.

The Kansas City City Council held a brief business session on January 18, 2024. The meeting began with the unanimous approval of the minutes from the December 14, 2023 business session, followed by a vote to enter closed session to discuss legal, real estate, and personnel matters as permitted by Missouri statutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the business session of December 14, 2023. A motion was made, seconded, and passed by voice vote with all members voting in favor. Key Outcomes - Closed Session Motion: Councilmember Patterson moved to go into closed session to discuss legal matters, litigation or privileged communications with attorneys (pursuant to RSMo 610.021.1 and .12), real estate matters where public knowledge might affect consideration (RSMo 610.021.2), and personnel matters (RSMo 610.021.3 and .13). The motion was seconded and passed by roll call vote with all present members (Rogers, Patterson, Robinson, Raya, Bunch, Girls, Park Shaw, Boo, Duncan, Lucas) voting aye. The council then adjourned to closed session.

The Kansas City Council convened on January 11, 2024, at 10:15 AM to honor two community leaders, approve several ordinances, and discuss a proposed moratorium on liquor and vape shops. The meeting included unanimous approvals for routine items and sparked debate on a hate offenses ordinance and a moratorium for Barry Road. All 12 council members were present. Consent Calendar - Special Resolution 24010: Honoring Stephanie Shannon for her contributions to Kansas City's film industry. Adopted unanimously. - Special Resolution 24011: Recognizing the service of Dr. Jamesha Shravan Wade, Executive Director of Start at Zero. Adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie Shannon, film commissioner, expressed gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the growth of the Kansas City Film Office since 2014, praising the support from VisitKC, Bloomberg Associates, and her team. She emphasized the positive outlook for the film industry with new state and local incentives. - Dr. Jamesha Wade, honoree, reflected on her six years at Start at Zero, focusing on home visiting programs and the importance of early childhood development, thanking her family, team, and the council for the recognition. Discussion Items - Ordinance 231032 (Hate Offenses Enhancement): Councilwoman Boo introduced an amendment to place the hate offenses enhancement in the general penalty provisions of the code. Several council members expressed strong support, noting the importance of making Kansas City a safe and welcoming city. Councilman Raya highlighted the need for legal protections for the LGBTQ community, and Councilman Rogers praised the council's stance as a contrast to state legislature actions. The council voted to amend the ordinance and then passed it unanimously (12-0). - Ordinance 231048 (Metro North Crossing Drive-Through): Councilman O'Neill explained that this amendment allows a drive-through facility at Andy's Frozen Custard, located between Hawaiian Brothers and Whataburger. The Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee recommended passage. Passed unanimously (12-0). - Ordinance 230695 (Mill Creek Stormwater Improvements): Councilwoman Robinson reported that neighbors along Mill Creek have experienced erosion and flooding. The ordinance authorizes a $300,000 appropriation and an $87,373 contract for design work, with 19% MBE and 12% WBE goals. Passed unanimously (12-0). - Ordinance 231045 (Water Main Replacement Design): Councilwoman Robinson noted that the project will replace approximately 22,230 linear feet of water mains in the Grandview Road to Lee's Summit Road and Gregory Boulevard to Longview Road area. The contract amendment totals $791,620. Passed unanimously (12-0). - Ordinance 231050 (31st Street & Van Brunt Intersection Design): Councilwoman Robinson emphasized the need to complete right-of-way plans for the intersection, which supports a $13,120,000 federal grant and the World Cup transportation plan. The amendment totals $820,047. Passed unanimously (11-0). Key Outcomes - Unanimous Adoption of Special Resolutions honoring Stephanie Shannon and Dr. Jamesha Wade. - Unanimous Approval of All Consent Items (Ordinances 231032, 231048, 230695, 231045, and 231050). - Closed Session: The council voted unanimously (12-0) to go into closed session to discuss legal matters. Late Docket Item and Moratorium Debate - A late resolution (240047) was introduced to establish a Youth Commission and Young Adult Commission. It was received and co-sponsored by multiple council members. - Councilman Willett introduced Ordinance 240047 (as corrected to 240048) proposing a moratorium on liquor and vape shop permits along Barry Road between NW McCombs Drive and NW Burchard Drive, until October 11, 2024. A motion to waive the three-reading requirement and advance it for final consideration was defeated (4 yays, 8 nays), meaning the ordinance will be referred back to the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee. Councilman Raya said a ‘no’ vote would be consistent with the representation that the matter should go to the city planning commission for review.

This meeting on December 14, 2023, focused on two primary items: a staff presentation on Resolution 230625 regarding transit-only exclusive lanes on the Main Street streetcar expansion and a discussion of Ordinance 231051 to contract for an updated jail forensic analysis. The meeting opened with the approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the prior business session via a voice vote (all ayes, no nays). Discussion Items - Resolution 230625 – Streetcar Transit-Only Lanes: Transportation Director Jason Waldron, KC Streetcar Authority Executive Director Tom Guerin, and KCATA Deputy CEO Dick Gerald presented the results of a due diligence study exploring exclusive transit lanes along the Main Street corridor (Pershing Road to 51st Street). The project is 60% built and scheduled for substantial completion by end of 2024. The study proposed converting the outer lanes to transit-only use with low-cost features (paint, signage, striping, rumble strips) while maintaining auto access, parking, and turning movements. The additional cost is estimated at $2–3 million, fundable through existing project capacity. Guerin reported overwhelming positive stakeholder feedback but noted concerns about neighborhood cut-through traffic and parking. Council members raised several points: - Councilwoman Boom confirmed engagement with the Plaza District Council. - Councilman Graham emphasized including streetcar operators in planning. - Councilwoman Robinson opposed the use of bollards (aesthetic concerns), asked about funding sources (confirmed from streetcar TDD funds), and advocated for a comprehensive east-west transit approach and a citywide 30 mph speed limit. She also requested broader neighborhood engagement (e.g., Longfellow, Central City, 4963 neighborhoods). - Councilwoman Patterson Hasley flagged traffic impacts on Foreign Language Academy and nearby schools (Academy Lafayette), urging careful coordination with KCPS. - Councilman Willett inquired about University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) partnership, which Guerin confirmed as foundational. - Councilman Bunch suggested finding alternatives to flex posts and possibly creating a branded Kansas City delineator. - Mayor Lucas encouraged broader public engagement beyond contractor outreach, including direct contact with businesses and schools. Staff responded that adjustments are possible post-implementation at low cost, and that sections may be modified or removed if problematic. - Ordinance 231051 – Jail Forensic Analysis Update: Councilman Ray introduced an ordinance to authorize a sole-source contract ($27,500) with Politzer Bogart and Associates to update the 2019 SFS jail forensic analysis. Ray argued that changes since 2019 (e.g., mental health data, alternatives to incarceration) warrant a rapid four-week study to right-size the detention facility. He proposed removing the item from first reading for an immediate vote. Mayor Lucas questioned whether inputs (e.g., KCPD arrest rates, municipal court data) would change significantly. Ray responded that the analysis could include new indicators like mental health screening data from booking forms and incorporate recommendations from the Alternatives to Incarceration Commission (due January 9, 2024). The discussion concluded without a final vote; the item was carried forward. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The business session minutes from the prior meeting were approved by voice vote. - Resolution 230625 Update: The council received the presentation and provided feedback. No formal vote was taken, but staff agreed to continue engagement with additional stakeholders (schools, neighborhoods, operators) and refine the design based on input. - Ordinance 231051: Councilman Ray moved to suspend first reading and bring the contract to a vote. Discussion occurred, but the meeting adjourned without a recorded vote on the ordinance. The item remains pending.

The Kansas City Council met on December 14, 2023, at 9:15 AM with 13 members present. The meeting opened with an invocation and pledge, followed by special recognitions, approval of ordinances, and extended debate on a resolution directing a study of voucher incentive programs for landlords accepting federal rental vouchers. Special Actions (Recognitions) - Launch KC Grant Cohort (Resolution 231042): Honored the 2023 Launch KC cohort. Councilmember noted the program has created close to 1,000 jobs, attracted over $400 million in follow-on investment, and generated over $1 million in annual tax revenue for the city. More than two-thirds of Launch KC companies are led by women and people of color. The cohort includes Bright Labs, Data Appraisal, EB Systems, Invent XYZ, MatchRight, and C in Me. Mr. Jim Erickson (EDC) and entrepreneur John Ruiz (EB Systems) spoke in support of the program. Adopted unanimously. - Liberty North High School Football Team (Resolution 231043): Recognized the team for winning the Class 6 state championship. Councilmembers praised the team’s 13–1 season, noting it was the first Class 6 title for a Northland school and the first state championship in Liberty Public Schools history. Players and Coach Learman accepted the honor. Adopted unanimously. Consent & Advanced Ordinances (Unanimous Votes) - Central City Economic Development Sales Tax Board appointments (231036): Appointed Stephen Anthony, Michael Oates, and Anthony Williams. Adopted (10 ayes). - Metro North Crossing CID appointments (231040): Appointed Janae Nazar and Jamie Belouis. Adopted (10 ayes). - Change order for balcony lighting at Municipal Auditorium (231028): $9,774 change order with Brown & Root. Adopted (13 ayes). - 22nd & Main TIF Plan amendment (231008): Extended development schedule to July 1, 2025. Adopted (13 ayes). - General Obligation Bond fund reallocation (231029): Moved funds from music hall freight elevator replacement to purchase new dance floor and tables, saving $20,000 annually in linen costs. Adopted (13 ayes). - Marijuana sales tax appropriation (231033): $42,000 for client advocates to support non-fatal shooting victims and families of homicide victims. Adopted (13 ayes). - Music Hall capital improvements (231035): $142,332 from ticket fees for capital repairs. Adopted (13 ayes). - Council expense account clarification (230937): Amended code to clarify uses of council budget. Adopted (13 ayes). - Reasonable accommodation zoning process (230936): Codified a process for disability accommodations under federal law. Adopted (13 ayes). - Rezoning at MO-150 and Box Road (231041): 250 acres from M2-2/35 to MPD for office, administrative, commercial, and manufacturing uses; expected to yield 10,000 jobs. Adopted (13 ayes). - Parade Park Homes redevelopment (231042): Authorized city to accept deeds from HUD and sell to developer Flaherty & Collins for $10 down payment (down from $10 million loan). Councilmember Robinson noted Parade Park’s history as one of the first Black-owned housing co-ops. Adopted (13 ayes). - 23rd Street Improvements design amendment (230963): $65,695 amendment with McClure Engineering for right-of-way acquisition. Adopted (13 ayes). - Hunt Midwest TIF funding for 48th Street widening (231026): $1.29M from Clay County Road & Bridge and $1.297M from GO bonds. Adopted (13 ayes). - Citywide asphalt and concrete contract (231024): $7.5M contract with Superior Boon and Bowen Asphalt, plus $15M option. Adopted (13 ayes). - Water main replacement – East 27th to 63rd (231025): $4.09M contract with Rodriguez Mechanical. Adopted (13 ayes). - Stormwater engineering services (231026): $324,490 amendment with Water Resources Solutions for 2D hydrology work (100% FEMA reimbursable). Adopted (13 ayes). - Water main replacement – Truman Rd to 24th St (231027): $6.52M contract with Rodriguez Mechanical. Adopted (13 ayes). Discussion Items - Resolution 231039 – Voucher Incentive Study: Councilmember Willett moved for immediate adoption of a resolution directing the city manager to study voucher incentive programs and engage stakeholders within 30 days. Debate centered on the timeline (30 vs. 45 vs. 60 days) and its relationship to the separately held Source of Income Discrimination Ordinance (231019, held until January 25, 2024). Amendments were offered: Mayor proposed 60 days (passed 7–6), then Councilman O’Neill proposed 45 days (passed 7–6). The resolution as amended with a 45-day reporting deadline was then adopted by immediate vote of 7–6. Key Outcomes - Parade Park Homes redevelopment: Authorized city to accept HUD deeds and transfer to Flaherty & Collins with $10 down payment. Adopted unanimously (13–0). - Rezoning for NNSA expansion: Approved development plan for up to 10,000 jobs. Adopted (13–0). - Source of Income Ordinance (231019): Held from the docket until January 25, 2024. - Voucher Incentive Study Resolution (231039): Adopted with 45-day deadline for city manager to report back (7–6). - Detention Center Study Contract (231051): Authorized $27,500 sole-source contract with Politzer Bogard & Associates to update the 2020 jail study. First reading waived; adopted unanimously (13–0). - All other ordinances and resolutions: Passed unanimously as noted above.

The Kansas City Council met on December 7, 2023, at 9:15 AM. The meeting opened with an invocation honoring former Mayor Richard Berkeley, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a roll call showing 12 members present. The agenda included two special recognitions, adoption of consent and debate docket ordinances, and the addition of a late-filed rezoning item. Special Recognitions - Resolution 231023 – Center for Neighborhoods (CFN): The Council congratulated CFN, established in spring 2017 by Dr. Jacob Wagner and former Senator Kiki Curls. Dina Newman accepted on behalf of the center. CFN has trained approximately 250 neighborhood leaders and over 100 neighborhoods, with cohorts based on four pillars (leadership, governance, technology, healthy neighborhoods/community development) and a fifth pillar upcoming. Multiple council members praised CFN for building neighborhood capacity and demystifying local government. The resolution passed by acclamation. - Resolution 31031 – Honoring Michael Williams: The Council honored Michael Williams for his service as Chairman of the Board of Curators for the University of Missouri system. Council members cited UMKC’s impact through KC Scholars (over 400 students), the Health Sciences District, and partnerships. Chairman Williams thanked the council; Chancellor Agarwal noted record highs in student retention, graduation rates, freshman enrollment, research expenditures (doubled in five years), and fundraising. The resolution passed by acclamation. Consent Calendar The following ordinances were passed unanimously (12-0) without debate: - Settlement authorizations (230989, 230990) - Condominium plat vacations (230995, 2300, 23101, 23102, 23103, 231004, 231005, 23106) - Lease agreement with Aviation Department (230983) - Grant agreement for transportation programs (231007) - Classification and compensation plan amendment (230953) - Financing for golf course equipment ($880,000) (230999) - Second amendment to development agreement for 63rd & Prospect (231011) - Rezoning for digital menu board sign (23091) - Development plan for hotel addition near KCI (230992) - Development plan for two hotels near KCI (23093) - Major amendment for townhomes in Steep Chase development (230994) - Vacation of right-of-way at UMKC (231013) - Sunshine law amendment creating Records Request Commissioner (230954) - Calendar amendment (230974) – amended to remove January 1, 2024, cancellation (see Discussion Items) - Development agreement for 18th & Paseo properties (231012) - Tax redirection agreement for 14th & Vine project (231018) - Design services for North Brighton Avenue improvements (230950) - Amendment for North Green Hills Road project (230964) - Bike Share KC agreement (230966) - Todd Creek water facility land acquisition (230975) - Aviation fund for parking garage HVAC/glycol facility (230981) - Water main replacement contracts (230984, 2979, 230986, 230996, 230997) - Water and sewer revenue bond issuances ($105M and $120M) (231009, 231010) - 75th & Warner Road improvements (231014) Discussion Items - 230998 – Public Engagement Plan: Councilman O’Neill introduced a resolution directing the city manager to develop a comprehensive public engagement plan and report back in 90 days. The Neighborhood Planning & Development Committee recommended do pass. Councilman Willett acknowledged an amendment ensuring equitable citywide participation. Councilman Curls supported increased engagement. Unanimous approval (12-0). - 230938 – 2024 Missouri Legislative Priorities: Councilwoman Robinson presented the annual legislative agenda, including opposition to undermining the earnings tax, support for exempting diapers and menstrual products from sales tax, equitable broadband distribution, clearance title reforms, higher education savings programs, and $2M for an innovation hub. Councilman Willett voted no, stating some priorities are outside local government’s lane. Passed 11-1. - 2309 through 9 – 2024 Kansas Legislative Priorities: Councilwoman Robinson introduced a resolution establishing regional priorities, including World Cup, fixed rail transit, homelessness prevention, affordable housing, and decriminalization of marijuana (amended from legalization). Councilmen O’Neill and Willett opposed, arguing it exceeds the city’s scope; Councilman Rogers also voted no. Passed 9-3. - 230974 – 2024 Council Calendar (Amended): The original calendar canceled meetings on January 1, 2024, among other dates. Councilwoman Boo noted that due to holidays falling on Mondays, the city would have three consecutive weeks off. An amendment was adopted by unanimous consent to remove the January 1 cancellation, ensuring committees could meet if needed. The calendar as amended passed 12-0. - Late-Filed Ordinance 231041: Councilwoman Boo requested introduction of an ordinance to rezone about 250 acres at the northwest corner of Missouri Route 150 and Box Road from M2 and M3 districts to MPD, with a development plan for 2.5 million square feet of commercial/manufacturing uses. The ordinance was referred to the Neighborhood Planning & Development Committee. Key Outcomes - All consent and debate docket ordinances passed, most unanimously. - Notable votes: Missouri legislative priorities (11-1, Willett nay); Kansas legislative priorities (9-3, O’Neill, Willett, Rogers nays); Calendar amendment unanimous. - The public engagement resolution and late-filed rezoning were referred to committee. - Council wished a happy Hanukkah to those celebrating. - Meeting adjourned.

The Kansas City City Council held a business session on November 30, 2023, beginning at approximately 8:30 PM. The meeting opened with approval of the minutes from the November 9, 2023 business session, followed by a detailed presentation from the Aviation Department on the new terminal’s first nine months of operations, including performance during the Thanksgiving holiday. Council members asked questions and offered commendations. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 9, 2023): Motion made, seconded, and unanimously approved by voice vote. Presentation: New Terminal Operations Update Aviation Director Melissa Cooper, Deputy Director Justin Meyer, and Jade Liska presented an overview of the new terminal’s performance since its March 2023 opening. Key points included: - Traffic Management: The arrivals curb now has two dedicated lanes for private vehicles (1,400 linear feet) plus a separate commercial level for buses, taxis, shuttles, and ride-hail services. Over Thanksgiving, 46 traffic violations were issued for vehicles waiting or unattended. The worst traffic delay was 10 minutes during a brief 10 AM staffing gap on Tuesday, with an average delay of 5 minutes. - Passenger Volumes: On November 26 (Sunday after Thanksgiving), 2,500 arriving seats were scheduled in one hour at 5 PM, equating to about 40 passengers per minute exiting on the curb. The busiest screening days (November 21 and 26) each saw over 20,000 passengers screened. - Security Wait Times: Average TSA PreCheck wait was 1.9 minutes; standard screening averaged under 4 minutes. A snow event on November 25-26 caused maximum wait times up to 18 minutes. - Custodial and Maintenance: The department is developing a dedicated cleaning schedule (e.g., floor cleaning on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays) and working with the union. All travelators and moving walkways were at 100% operation during the holiday. - Concessions: Sales per enplaned passenger increased from $6 in the old terminals to $11.50–$12.00. Concession performance varies by gate area; the A South node (international and non-signatory gates) sees lower traffic. The Kansas City Air Travel Experience (mock airplane) has a reservation system via flightkc.com, with high usage in summer and Saturdays. - Customer Satisfaction: The department is establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) for each operating division by end of 2023. Informal feedback from travelers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many calling the terminal “our Kansas City” and feeling other airports are now inferior. Discussion and Council Comments Council members expressed strong support and offered praise: - Councilmember Shaw asked about custodial schedules and customer satisfaction metrics. Director Cooper noted the department is creating a math-based staffing model and will implement KPIs by year-end. - Councilmember Willett shared that students compared the terminal to the City Market. Councilmember Rogers thanked Deputy Director Meyer for a social media post about cleaning up trash, noting it inspired him to pick up litter. - Councilmember Bunch reported overhearing out-of-town visitors praising the airport’s art and design. Councilmember Curls echoed positive feedback from visitors. - Councilmember O'Neill commended the Aviation Department for quick responsiveness to initial parking and signage concerns. Several members noted the new terminal has become a point of pride for the city. - Mayor Lucas and Councilmember O'Neill thanked the department and recognized the long-term vision of the council and staff. Key Outcomes - The minutes of November 9, 2023, were approved unanimously. - The presentation was informational; no formal votes were taken on the new terminal operations. - The department will continue to refine traffic management, custodial practices, and concession programming, with a focus on upcoming peak periods (winter, spring break) and preparation for 2026 events. - The council expressed continued support and offered to assist with any resource needs.

The Kansas City Council convened on November 30, 2023, at 9:15 AM. The meeting opened with an invocation by Bishop Keith Tribbett Sr., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. The council suspended rules to allow for multiple special actions and considered a full agenda of ordinances and resolutions. Consent Calendar - Suspension of council rules to allow more than three special actions (unanimous). - Recognition of East High School boys’ soccer team for their state championship win (Resolution 231021). - Recognition of Tech Nine (Aaron D. Yates) for contributions to entertainment and music (Resolution 230988). - Recognition of SFS Architecture for 50 years of service (Resolution 230987). - Recognition of November as National Stomach Cancer Awareness Month (Resolution 230987). - Honoring the life of former Mayor Richard Berkeley (Resolution 231022). Discussion Items - Ordinance 230887: Directing the city manager to submit proposed resolutions to the council for grants requiring matching funds over $1 million. A committee substitute provided exceptions for emergencies. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230969: Establishing a contract assistance team pilot program to improve funding agreement coordination. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230970: Directing the city manager to develop a common application for housing and economic development funds. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230971: Updating the process for non-federal economic development funding agreements. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230978: Amending the KCI Area Plan land use map for a 30-acre tract near Highway 435 and Cookingham Drive from mixed-use to commercial/industrial for a data center. Passed 11-0. - Ordinance 230972: Authorizing a lease for a community center at 3025 Prospect Avenue for violence prevention services. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230975: Approving Chapter 100 bonds and tax abatements for McKesson Medical Surgical’s 306,000 sq ft distribution center, creating 35 new jobs and retaining 194, with a $108 million total investment. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230973: Authorizing a tax redirection agreement for a grocery store at Red Bridge Shopping Center (Red Bridge Farm Fresh Market). Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230976: Accepting a $500,000 DOJ grant for public safety partnership, including focused deterrence programs. Councilman Raya noted it supports a joint effort between the prosecutor’s office, mayor’s office, and KCPD. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230949: Accepting a $575,000 domestic violence grant renewal from the DOJ Office on Violence Against Women for improved criminal justice response. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230962: Accepting Housing Trust Fund round three funding recommendations, amended to allocate $9.84 million (increasing funding for two projects). Councilman Duncan emphasized the need for continuous revenue streams for affordable housing. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230979: Rezoning 30 acres near Cookingham Drive from AGR to M2-3 for a data center (companion to 230978). Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230935: Adopting FY2024-25 GO KC bond fund priorities for road, bridge, and sidewalk projects. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230952: Authorizing a $195,108 amendment to a design contract for the Byrnes Road Bridge over Realm Grove Creek (bridge closed for over 10 years). Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230959: Authorizing a $2.4 million construction contract for emergency water distribution repairs. Passed unanimously. - Ordinance 230968: Authorizing an amendment to an elevator maintenance contract for City Hall. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All ordinances and resolutions on the agenda passed unanimously or with one abstention (230978 had 11 ayes). - The council waived second readings for several items and referred ordinance 230998 to the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee. - Councilman Ray was added as a co-sponsor to ordinance 231018. - The mayor noted that ordinance 231019 (source of income discrimination) will be heard on December 12, 2023, in legal review. - The meeting concluded with acknowledgment of the passing of former Councilwoman Dorothy Robinson.