Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City Council met on June 12, 2026, at the Kansas City Public Library Plaza location in the 6th District, with Mayor Lucas presiding. Twelve members were present. The meeting included special actions, same-day adoptions, final readings, and first readings of ordinances, along with resolutions on elder abuse awareness, union support, Pride and Juneteenth flags, and LGBTQ+ community engagement. Special Actions - World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (June 15, 2026): Councilman Rogers presented a resolution declaring June 15, 2026 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. He highlighted that an estimated 5 million (1 in 10) older Americans experience elder abuse each year, with nearly 20,000 cases reported in Missouri in 2025 and over 3,000 in Jackson County. The resolution passed unanimously (12-0). - Support for SEIU Local One Traffic Control Officers: Councilman Duncan introduced a resolution supporting the Service Employees International Union Local One's appeal for job protections, better working conditions, and paid time off for traffic control officers at Kansas City International Airport. He noted the officers face high turnover, dangerous conditions, and play a key role during the World Cup. The resolution passed unanimously (12-0). RJ, a worker at the airport, thanked the council. Same‑Day Adoptions (Motion & Resolutions) - A motion to adopt all same-day resolutions was approved (7 ayes, 1 nay – unclear tally, but later resolutions passed 12-0). - LGBTQ+ Pride Flag: Resolution 260543 directs the city manager to raise and display the LGBTQ+ Pride flag at City Hall during June, annually, in recognition of Pride Month. Passed 12-0. - Juneteenth Flag: Resolution 260544 directs the city manager to raise and display the Juneteenth flag at City Hall during June, annually, honoring African American culture and emancipation. Passed 12-0. Final Readings (Consent / Debate Docket) Numerous ordinances were considered. Key votes: - 260441 – Indigent Care Funding for Swope Health Services: Increased funding by $140,000. Councilman Duncan opposed, citing a $9 million out‑of‑cycle award to Swope and strain on the health levy. Passed 10-2. - 260480 – EDC Contract ($5 million): Authorized contract with Economic Development Corporation for development/redevelopment activities. Passed 11-1. - 260499 – Peer‑to‑Peer Car Rental Taxes: Directed city manager to negotiate with platforms to collect taxes. Passed 12-0. - 260506 – Welcoming KC Commission: Established a formal commission to advise on immigrant and refugee services. Passed 11-1. - 260429 – Linwood Shopping Center CID Expansion: Approved boundary amendment. Passed 11-1. - 260442 – Palestine CID Cooperative Agreement: Authorized work on street lights, sidewalks, fencing (≈$434,000). Passed 12-0. - 260494 – Blight Finding for 114 West Linwood: Supported $2 million renovation with 10‑year tax abatement. Passed 11-1. - 260495 – Rezoning for Daycare Expansion: Rezoned 0.3 acres at Westport and Bell. Passed 12-0. - 260497 – Honorary Street Name: Willie T. Bland Way. Passed 12-0. - 260505 – Shoteau Crossing CID: Established for 18 years. Passed (vote not fully recorded but appeared unanimous). - 260507 – Downtown Airport Rezoning to KCIA District. Passed 12-0. - 260490 – Flood Warning System Maintenance ($339,898). Passed 12-0. - 260491 – Sewer Repairs ($12 million renewal). Passed 12-0. - 260492 – Green Infrastructure Phase 2 ($8.46 million). Passed 11-1. - 260493 – Smart Sewer Program Management ($12 million). Passed 12-0. - 260500 – Bus Route Closure Standards. Passed 12-0. - 260496 – 800 Grand TIF Amendment – read only; no vote. First Readings & Late Ordinances/Resolutions - Street Resurfacing Contracts (Four ordinances): 260547 (north of river), 260548 (river to 63rd St.), 260549 (63rd St. to south), 260552 (citywide pavement sealing). Combined value ≈ $26 million. Charter reading requirements waived for each; all four passed unanimously (12-0) after brief discussion on MBE/WBE goals (10% each). - Council Calendar Change (260568): Canceled meetings June 22, added June 29. Passed 10-2. - Police Grant for World Cup Security (260569): $17.08 million for safety/security grant. Passed 12-0. - LGBTQ+ Commission Resolution (260571): Directed the LGBTQ+ Commission to facilitate community engagement and report back within 30 days (with possible extension). Councilman Raya sponsored; friendly amendment added for extension flexibility. Passed 11-1. - Small Business Support Fund (260570): Directed city manager to develop a plan for qualifying streetcar infrastructure projects. Referred to Transportation Committee. - Other late items referred to committees: 260572 (homeless housing support, $1.4 million), 260574 (monument signs), 260575 (Kenneth Road improvements & permitting), 260576 (Phillips Edison road relocation, $800,000). Public Comments & Testimony - RJ, a traffic control officer, thanked the council for their support of the SEIU resolution. - Tina Yurid (Clay County Senior Services) and others spoke on elder abuse awareness, providing statistics and resources. Key Outcomes - Unanimous passage of elder abuse awareness and SEIU support resolutions. - Adoption of annual Pride and Juneteenth flag displays at City Hall. - $140,000 increased funding for Swope Health Services (10-2). - Approval of $26 million in street resurfacing contracts. - Establishment of Welcoming KC Commission and Shoteau Crossing CID. - Direction to LGBTQ+ Commission to lead community engagement on related legislation (11-1). - City manager granted 60-day flexibility on liquor/public nuisance ordinances. - Council recessed for two weeks (next meetings June 29).

The Kansas City Council met on May 21, 2026, to receive and discuss two major agenda items: the Vacant Land Activation Initiative strategic plan and the City Auditor's report on the Parks and Recreation Department. The meeting began with approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the business session of May 7, 2026. Discussion Items Vacant Land Activation Initiative Strategic Plan City staff presented a strategic plan developed in response to Resolution 250396 (passed May 2025). The plan addresses approximately 16,000 vacant parcels (about 8% of total parcels in Kansas City). Key facts included: - 80% of vacant parcels are privately held. - Only about 14% of vacant parcels have structures. - 90% of vacant parcels are located in Council Districts 3, 4, and 5; District 3 contains about 60%. - About 50% of vacant parcels are expected to have some level of contamination (lead/heavy metals), with remediation costs ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 per parcel. The plan outlines five priorities: targeting activation areas, assembling land, increasing accountability, greening properties, and building partnerships. Staff recommended establishing or partnering with a housing development corporation to develop properties the private market is unlikely to address. A proposed budget of $10 million per year was presented, covering staffing, software, environmental assessments, quiet title work, and property remediation. Potential funding sources include a HUD Section 108 loan (up to $35 million in credit), a vacant registry fee, and private/philanthropic partners. Councilmembers voiced support for the plan but raised concerns about past city housing development failures, the need for a developer mindset in any new housing corporation, and the importance of focusing on the most blighted areas and residents ("inside out" development). Councilmember Patterson Hasley urged that priority projects be identified in advance and that mixed-income housing (60% to 120% AMI) be required. Councilmember Curls emphasized the need to address out-of-state landowners and ensure equitable distribution of resources across all districts. City Auditor's Report on Parks and Recreation Department City Auditor Mark Shaw presented findings from an audit evaluating financial controls, fee policies, and facility use agreements in the Parks and Recreation Department. Three key findings were: 1. Weak Financial Controls: Department leadership reported an inaccurate FY 2026 budget figure ($33 million vs. actual $100 million). The department is in the top quarter of best-funded parks departments per capita among large U.S. cities, yet leadership cited insufficient budgets. The deferred maintenance backlog estimates ranged from $80 million to $400 million. Roles and responsibilities in the finance division were unclear, leading to accounting inaccuracies and unreconciled transactions. 2. Inconsistent Fee Practices: Youth entry fees were imposed at community centers, but cost recovery was lower (FY 2025: $1.5 million total fees from community centers, or 2.6% of total revenues of $58.7 million) than before the fees were imposed (FY 2019: $1.7 million). The audit stated the fees may have disproportionately affected lower-income communities. Facility use agreements deviated from established fee schedules with no systematic tracking of cost recovery. 3. Insufficient Oversight of Facility Use Agreements: The department re-entered agreements with partners that had repeated violations and unauthorized activities. An adult softball league operated under a youth-only agreement, characterized as a "rogue league" by leadership. Fee splits varied inconsistently (e.g., 15/85 vs. 40/60). In one case, a partner received a 25% reduction in owed revenue and waived maintenance fees, while subleasing facilities and retaining additional revenue. Leadership acknowledged the department "could have missed collecting millions of dollars." Parks and Recreation Director Cotton responded, defending the department's national accreditation and financial management. He disputed several audit claims, stating that youth fees were approved by the park board, that the department has been working to improve financial practices for years, and that there is no missing money or embezzlement. Councilmembers expressed strong interest in further discussion. Councilmember Patterson Hasley defended the auditor's role, calling the director's engagement "completely inappropriate." Councilmember Robinson apologized to the auditor for personal attacks. Councilmember Duncan noted the "egregious" financial issues and requested the Parks Board Chair be present at a future session. Councilmember Ray asked for clarity on the definition of "fraud" used in the audit. It was agreed to revisit the audit at a future business session (tentatively July 11, 2026), with a written response from the Parks Board due by June 4, 2026. Key Outcomes - The Vacant Land Activation Initiative strategic plan was presented for council consideration; no formal vote was taken, but staff requested council endorsement via resolution. - The council tentatively scheduled a follow-up business session for July 11, 2026, to further discuss the Parks and Recreation audit. The Parks Board Chair will be invited, and a written response from the Parks Board is requested by June 4, 2026.

The Kansas City Council met on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM in Council Chambers, 414 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, MO. The meeting included special recognitions, approval of a major Tax Increment Financing plan, rezoning for the Country Club Plaza, placement of multiple bond questions on the August 4, 2026 ballot, and a contentious debate over flying the America 250 flag. All 13 council members were present. The meeting adjourned after approximately 3 hours. Consent Calendar - Resolution 260488 (Adopted unanimously): Recognized Exceeds Expectations for its 10 years of financial literacy and wellness programming. - Resolution 260489 (Adopted unanimously): Declared May 17-23, 2026 as National Public Works Week in Kansas City. - Resolution 260501 (Adopted unanimously): Honored Sherae Honeycutt, retiring from the city’s communications office. - Resolution 260502 (Adopted unanimously): Honored Director Michael Shaw upon his retirement after 28 years of city service, with extensive remarks from council members. - Consent Docket ordinances (All passed with one nay from Councilmember Willett on most items): Approved grants, plats, and routine administrative matters including HIV surveillance funding, Countryshire Third Plat, Central Bank Sporting Complex plat, and annual action plans for HUD programs. Public Comments & Testimony - On the Country Club Plaza rezoning (260443): Multiple members of the public submitted written testimony – Nadja Karpilow, Janice A. Allen, Allen A. Ternent, Nickolas Buitink, Diane Capps, Maggie Wood, Mohammad Shehada (letter of support), and Amelia McIntyre. Their specific positions were not read aloud but noted in the record. - On the affordable housing bond (260484): Geoff Jolley provided public testimony; content not detailed in minutes. - No other public oral testimony was recorded during the meeting. Discussion Items - 435 & Soccer Drive TIF Plan (260363): Approved as a committee substitute. The TIF Plan covers infrastructure for a large mixed-use development (single-family, townhomes, multifamily, retail, hotel, office, sports facilities) in Clay County. Councilmember O’Neill highlighted its long-term phased development. Passed 13-0 (Willett, Curls, Parks-Shaw out). - Country Club Plaza Rezoning (260443): Rezoned 23.5 acres at 4710 Jefferson Street from B4-5 to Master Planned Development (MPD) to allow redevelopment and enhancement of the Plaza. Included design guidelines and height increases. Passed 13-0. - Plaza Overlay Amendment (260486): Removed two parcels from the Plaza Bowl Overlay to resolve conflicts with the new MPD plan. Passed 13-0. - America 250 Flag Display (260444): Originally proposed a $15,000 (later rumored $300,000) display. After debate, an amendment was adopted to fly a standard-sized Betsy Ross flag atop City Hall for seven days before and after July 4, 2026, at no additional appropriation. Passed 12-1 (Councilmember Willett nay on the amendment; final ordinance passed 12-1 with Willett nay). - Conversion Therapy Repeal (260453): Repealed Section 50-234 banning conversion therapy for minors and created an exception regarding preferred pronouns in discriminatory accommodation practices. Councilmembers Bunch and Bough voted no in protest despite acknowledging litigation risk. Passed 7-5 (Lucas, O’Neill, Willett, Robinson, Curls, Parks-Shaw, Duncan aye; Rogers, Patterson Hazley, Rea, Bunch, Bough nay; French out). - Late-Night Alcohol Service Expansion (260504): Amended previous ordinance to include Zona Rosa area, allowing bars to operate until 5:00 AM with a security plan. Passed 10-1 (Councilmember Curls nay). - Vacant Property Registration Fee Ballot (260498): Proposed to place a question on August 4, 2026 ballot to establish semi-annual fees for vacant properties. Referred to Special Committee for Legal Review after Councilmember French requested more work. Key Outcomes - Bond & Tax Ballot Questions (August 4, 2026): Five ordinances were passed to place the following on the ballot (all passed 12-1, with Willett nay on each): - 260484: $100 million General Obligation bonds for affordable housing (Housing Trust Fund). - 260483: $100 million GO bonds for convention facilities and pre-1950 buildings. - 260485: Renewal of the 1/8-cent central city economic development sales tax for 10 years. - 260482: $750 million waterworks revenue bonds for water system rehabilitation. - 260481: $750 million sanitary sewer revenue bonds for sewer system improvements. - Legal Settlements: - 260457: Approved $400,000 settlement in Kenya Mitchell v. City (case 2516-CV05992). Passed 12-1 (Willett nay). - 260474: Approved $500,000 settlement in Andrea Dorch v. City (case 2416-CV06268). Passed 9-4 (O’Neill, Willett, Rogers, Patterson Hazley nay). - World Cup Contingency (260503): Appropriated $400,000 from the Capital Improvements Fund to a contingency account for 2026 FIFA World Cup expenses. Passed 10-1 (Willett nay; French and Bough out). - CID Term Extension (260378): Amended Chapter 74 to allow Community Improvement Districts using special assessments for blight removal up to 27 years (previously 20). Passed with Councilmember Willett abstaining. - Other Approvals: - 260443: Plaza MPD plan passed. - 260432: Parking garage at 46th & Pennsylvania passed. - 260438: Rezoning for Mean Well Power Solutions expansion (30,000 sq ft) at 6655 Troost passed. - 260468: 30-year lease for a 163-room hotel at KCI Airport (Terminal C) passed. - 260476: $1.5 million fund swap for street resurfacing and 31st & Van Brunt project passed. - Resolutions Adopted: Business survey (260359), health discount program (260408), Swope Area Plan amendment (260437), Planning Sustainable Places applications (260439), housing policy evaluation (260454), Prospect-Hickman Mills Vision Plan (260475), and others. - First Readings Referred to Committees: Multiple items including 800 Grand TIF amendment, blight finding for 114 W. Linwood, rezoning for daycare expansion, honorary street naming, vacant property registration fee, peer-to-peer car rental tax, water system contracts, street closure standards, Welcoming KC Commission, and electric bicycle regulations.

On May 14, 2026, the Kansas City Council held a business session primarily to receive and discuss the final 2026 Disparity Study conducted by Griffin & Strong, presented by the Department of Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity (CREO). The study examined the city's procurement practices over seven fiscal years (2016–2022) and recommended transitioning from a race- and gender-conscious MWBE program to a race- and gender-neutral small local business enterprise (SLBE) program, citing legal vulnerabilities under the Croson standard. Council members raised questions and concerns about the study's methodology, data sources, and the implications of the recommended shift. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes from the business session of March 5, 2026, by voice vote (all in favor, no opposition). Discussion Items - Disparity Study Presentation (2026): - Purpose and Methodology: Courtney Clark (Griffin & Strong project manager) and Michelle Clark Jenkins (director of methodology) presented the study, which analyzed $5.8 billion in city spending across five industry categories: construction, architecture/engineering (AE), professional services, other services, and goods/supplies. The study used payment, award, bidder, subcontractor, and vendor data from May 1, 2015, to April 30, 2022 (city fiscal years 2016–2022). The relevant market was the Kansas City MSA (seven counties), where 92–93% of city dollars were spent locally. The methodology included a legal analysis (focused on Croson and Eighth Circuit precedent), policy analysis, anecdotal data (via community sessions, one-on-one interviews, focus groups, and organizational meetings), and statistical disparity analysis comparing utilization to availability. - Findings: - Prime utilization: MWBEs received 15.5% (construction), 3.5% MBE + 3.0% WBE (AE), 1% total (professional services), 2% total (other services), 2.2% total (goods/supplies). Total utilization (prime + subcontract) improved to 27.7% (construction), 29.7% (AE), 10.7% (professional services), 7.0% (other services), 6.4% (goods/supplies). - When comparing availability to utilization statistically, many MWBE groups showed overutilization or statistically insignificant underutilization. Specifically: - Construction: No group could support race/gender conscious goals. - AE: Asian American, Native American, and women-owned firms showed underutilization. - Professional services: African American, Asian American, and Native American firms showed underutilization. - Other services: No group. - Goods/supplies: Asian American and Hispanic American firms showed underutilization. - A no-goals analysis (controlling for race/gender conscious goals) still found overutilization in many groups, suggesting the program's success contributed to the lack of a factual predicate. - Recommendations: - Transition from race/gender conscious MWBE program to a race/gender neutral SLBE program, noting that most current SLBEs are minorities/women and that the city could achieve similar participation levels while reducing legal risk under Croson. - Emphasize a non-discrimination policy, unbundle large contracts, accept reciprocal certification, improve procurement forecasting, limit term contracts to three years with two one-year renewals, require primes to list all solicited subcontractors, streamline paperwork, implement prompt pay provisions, and encourage joint ventures (e.g., requiring joint ventures on projects over $5 million). - Data reform: Improve tracking of joint venture data and other metrics. - Next Steps: The disparity study will be posted on CREO’s website, followed by a 45-day public comment period (May 15–June 29, 2026). Three community engagement sessions were scheduled: May 27 (Southeast Community Center), June 3 (Northland Neighborhoods Inc.), and June 10 (virtual). A “Speak Easy” web page and FAQ will also be available. - Council Questions and Concerns: - Councilman Duncan asked why the city must change its program if it has shown success; the presenters explained that under Croson, a factual predicate of disparity is required to maintain race/gender conscious programs, and the study no longer supports one in most industry categories. - Councilwoman Robinson raised questions about large outliers (e.g., airport, consent decree projects) and the implementation of previous disparity study recommendations. Presenters noted that federal dollars (including airport DBE projects) were excluded from the analysis and that a size-control analysis (removing contracts over $1M and $500K) showed similar results. Councilwoman Robinson also requested a legal memo on DEI and federal agreements. - Councilwoman French asked about continued stakeholder engagement and the impact of transitioning to an SLBE program on firms that may no longer qualify due to personal net worth thresholds. Presenters acknowledged gaps in support for firms between small and large and indicated the city is working on a tiered approach. - Councilman Rogers asked how utilization can exceed availability; presenters explained it is percentage-based (e.g., 10% availability but 20% utilization yields overutilization). - Councilwoman Purti questioned the availability analysis, noting it primarily included certified firms, potentially masking unregistered but qualified minority/women-owned firms. Presenters agreed there is a gap but said the burden of proof under Croson requires certification to count firms. They noted that a D&B analysis (using Hoover data) produced even lower availability numbers. - Councilwoman Patterson challenged the study’s validity, arguing that comparing certified firms to non-certified firms ignores systemic advantages and that the large dollar gap between certified and non-certified suggests persistent disparity. Presenters defended the methodology, stating that non-MWBE firms’ utilization matches their availability percentages and that recommendations aim to address systemic barriers. - Councilwoman Patterson further asked how the study accounted for firms that were formerly MWBE certified but left the program (e.g., due to bankruptcy or growth). Presenters noted that the private sector analysis and regressions showed that minority/women-owned firms are more likely to be small and less likely to feel “ready, willing, and able” to bid—factors they attributed to marketplace conditions. - Councilwoman French summarized that the study appears to show the program is “too successful” to justify race/gender conscious goals, but she echoed concerns that firms may have disappeared from the pool due to underutilization. Presenters recommended that the city continue tracking utilization to see if the factual predicate re-emerges. - Councilman Curls asked for comparative data from other cities that have transitioned to SLBE programs. Presenters offered to follow up with examples (e.g., Memphis, Palm Beach County, cities in Florida). - Mayor Pro Tem asked how the study concluded no disparity when minority/women firms received only 15.5% of prime construction dollars. Presenters reiterated that disparity is measured by comparing utilization to availability percentages, not by absolute dollar share. Key Outcomes - No formal action taken: The council received the disparity study presentation but did not vote to adopt its recommendations. The study is now public for a 45-day comment period. - Next Steps: The city will hold three community engagement sessions (May 27, June 3, June 10) and accept feedback via the CREO website. The council and city administration will use the study to guide potential policy changes, including a possible transition to an SLBE program. - Council directives: Councilwoman Robinson requested a legal memo addressing the intersection of federal DEI requirements and the study’s recommendations. Council members indicated they would follow up with additional questions after reviewing the full 329-page report. - Implementation planning: CREO will conduct a gap analysis to determine which recommendations need new authority and will develop an implementation plan, including budget and staffing considerations.

The Kansas City City Council convened on May 14, 2026, at 9:15 AM with 12 members present. The meeting included resolutions honoring older Americans, a second chance re-entry program graduate, and a retiring police officer. The council also passed numerous ordinances, including compliance audits, World Cup liquor-hour exemptions, affordable housing funding, and a signage plan for the Berkeley Riverfront development. Consent Calendar - Appointments to Community Improvement Districts (CIDs): Ordinances 260412–260427 appointed directors to 16 CIDs (e.g., 906 Grand, Pioneer Center, Historic Kansas City Club, etc.). Passed 10–0. - Advanced Consent Items: Ordinance 260431 (lease renewal for community capital fund office space) and Ordinance 260428 (plat approval in Jackson County) passed 11–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Tracy Russell (recognized via Resolution 260456) shared her personal story of overcoming homelessness, earning her GED, and reuniting with her son. She expressed gratitude for the KC Second Chance Re-Entry Program. - Octavio Villalobos (recognized via Resolution 260479) thanked the council and police department for 26 years of service, emphasizing community policing on the West Side and support for undocumented residents. Discussion Items Resolutions - Older Americans Month (260455): Councilman O'Neill proclaimed May 2026 as Older Americans Month, highlighting the contributions of seniors. Mayor Lucas and Councilman Rogers spoke in support. Unanimously adopted. - KC Second Chance Re-Entry Program (260456): Councilman Rogers recognized Tracy Russell's successful completion. Remarks from Councilman Duncan and others. Unanimously adopted. - Retirement of Officer Octavio Villalobos (260479): Councilman Rayo led tribute; multiple council members praised his community policing legacy. Mayor Lucas shared personal anecdotes. Unanimously adopted. Ordinances - Audit of Homelessness Coalition Contract (260460): Councilwoman Boo introduced an expedited compliance audit of the city's contract with the Greater Kansas City Coalition to End Homelessness, following board resignations and allegations of noncompliance. Passed 10–0 with 1 abstention. - World Cup Liquor-Hour Exemption (260447): Committee substitute allowed certain districts (Central Business District, Westport) to operate until 5 AM during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Amendment required KCPD security plan approval. Passed 11–0. - Use Tax Reporting (260448): Required quarterly budget reports to analyze use tax revenues exceeding budgeted amounts. Passed 10–0 with 1 abstention. - Promised Place Affordable Housing (260379): Appropriated $4.17 million for housing project. Passed 10–1. - Port Authority Infrastructure Agreement (260449): Floor amendment reverted to original ordinance, authorizing water utility reimbursements and fee waivers for the Missouri River Terminal Project. Passed 11–0. - EPA Organic Waste Grant (260440): Accepted $5 million grant for food rescue and composting partnerships. Passed 10–1. - Current Landing Signage Plan (260452): Approved council-approved signage plan for Berkeley Riverfront. Amendment (restricting off-site advertising) was withdrawn; original ordinance passed 10–1. - Brookside Shops CID (260407): Authorized public improvements and trolley trail connection. Passed 11–0. - Kansas Fiber Network Easement (260418): Authorized fiber conduit installation in city ROW. Passed 11–0. - Airport Spare Parts Contract (260419): Added $1.2 million for spare parts inventory and recognized contractor name change. Passed 11–0. Late Introductions - Plaza Overlay Removal (260486): Councilwoman Boo introduced an ordinance to remove two parcels from Heights Boulevard regulations. Referred to committee. - 435 & Soccer Drive Redevelopment Support (260487): Councilman O'Neill introduced a resolution expressing support for a Northland retail project. Adopted 10–0 with 1 abstention. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and ordinances passed with votes ranging from 10–1 to 11–0. One abstention recorded on the audit ordinance (260460) and the redevelopment resolution (260487). One nay each on housing (260379), organic waste (260440), and signage (260452). - The council waived charter reading requirements for first-read ordinances and advanced them to committee. - The meeting adjourned after final action on the Current Landing signage item.

The Kansas City City Council held its regular meeting on May 7, 2026, beginning with an invocation and pledge, followed by roll call with 11 members present. The council adopted several resolutions recognizing awareness months and community organizations, debated and approved multiple ordinances related to incentive policies, neighborhood plans, staffing, transit, and infrastructure, and introduced floor items for future committees. Special Actions & Recognitions - Resolution 260409 (Mental Health Awareness Month): Recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month, advancing mental health first aid. Councilmember Raya highlighted the evidence-based program and efforts to train city staff. Plaza Academy Executive Director Ward Worley thanked the council and noted that trainer Celia Reese trained all students and staff in mental health first aid. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260410 (National Correctional Professionals Week): Declared May 3–9 as National Correctional Professionals Week. Councilmember Rogers, a former public defender and prosecutor, emphasized the importance of corrections professionals. Diana Knapp, Director of the new Department of Community Safety, thanked the council. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260420 (Food Allergy Awareness Month): Recognized Food Allergy Awareness Month and celebrated Just Like You Films' project "May Contain My Life." Councilmember Boo noted her daughter’s life-threatening food allergy and recalled Elijah’s Law (2023). The film will have a national debut at Union Station on May 21, followed by a one-week theatrical run (May 22–29) in 230 AMC theaters. Mandy Kern, COO of Just Like You Films, thanked the council. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260450 (Black Economic Union Day): Declared May 7, 2026 as Black Economic Union Day, recognizing the organization’s 58 years of work in economic empowerment. Councilmember Boo (Mayor Pro Tem) noted BEU is the only remaining black economic union in the nation. Eric Hawthorne (Director of Economic Development) and board member Charlie Parker thanked the council. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260451 (ALS Awareness Month): Declared May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month. Councilmember Curls recognized Jennifer, an ALS patient, and noted over 30,000 people in the U.S. live with ALS. Jennifer’s husband spoke on her behalf, noting her diagnosis in 2024 and the average life expectancy of 2–5 years. Adopted unanimously. Discussion & Action on Ordinances - 260286 (Prevailing Wage & MBE/WBE Alignment): Amended city code to align Port KC and EDC policies on prevailing wage and MBE/WBE requirements. Councilmember Boo introduced the ordinance, noting it arose from multiple meetings. Councilmember Curls offered a floor amendment (approved 11-0) adding a requirement that the director of PRIO make a written recommendation before any waiver of MBE/WBE requirements, and an annual report on waivers to the city manager. The amended ordinance passed 11-0. - 260377 (South Round Top Neighborhood Plan): Approved an amendment to the Heart of the City Area Plan to include the South Round Top neighborhood plan. Councilmember Patterson-Hasley noted the plan was developed through direct engagement over a year and cost significantly less than a consultant’s plan; she already funded 100% of requested crosswalks. Passed 11-0. - 260372 (Staffing & Compensation): Annual ordinance adjusting job classifications, salary scales, and pay for IAFF locals and elective judges. Passed 11-0. - 260303 (Rebuild Together KC Funding): Appropriated $300,000 from the Development Services Fund surplus for home repair services via Rebuild Together KC. Councilmember Boo clarified the funding was mistakenly omitted from the budget and will be administered through the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant (increasing it to $700,000). Passed 11-0. Councilmember Boo noted the organization should apply for the grant in future years. - 260352 (Right-of-Way Vacation): Vacated approximately 35,000 square feet of right-of-way on North Olive Street. The property owner will repave and keep the street open to the public. Passed 10-0 (one absent). - 260371 (Water Main Replacement): Authorized a $5,389,697 construction contract with A Bay Construction to replace approximately 9,450 feet of break-prone water mains in the area of Oak Street to Virginia Avenue, E. 43rd Street to E. 47th Terrace. Passed 11-0. - 260374 (Detachment to Raymore): Detached approximately 8.129 acres (12 properties) on E. 155th Street to Raymore, contingent on Raymore’s annexation, to improve utility and service coordination. Passed 11-0. - 260402 (KCATA Transit Services Agreement): Authorized an agreement not to exceed $85,578,976 with KCATA for transit services (fixed route, paratransit, on-demand) from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027, including Northland IRIS services. Passed 11-0. Floor Introductions Three late items were introduced and referred to committees: - 260452 (Signage plan for Berkeley Parkway, 42 acres) – referred to Neighborhood Planning & Development Committee. - 260453 (Banning conversion therapy for minors and amending discriminatory accommodation practices regarding preferred pronouns) – referred to Legal Review Committee. - 260454 (Directing city manager to evaluate housing programs for unintended concentration of poverty and recommend strategies for diverse housing access) – referred to Neighborhood Planning & Development Committee. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and ordinances passed with unanimous or near-unanimous votes (11-0 or 10-0). - Item 260286 was amended to require written recommendations and annual reporting on MBE/WBE waivers. - Item 260303 clarified that future funding for Rebuild Together KC should go through the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant process. - The council suspended rule 4.01 to allow more than three special actions at this meeting. - The meeting adjourned into closed session after floor introductions.

The City Council held a business session on May 7, 2026, at 7:15 PM. The primary agenda item was a presentation and discussion on the Housing Gateway Program, a new initiative to address homelessness. The session opened with the unanimous approval of minutes from the previous business session on March 5, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the business session of March 5, 2026, via a motion, second, and voice vote. Discussion Items - Housing Gateway Program Presentation: Mary Owens (Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development), Mandy Chapman Simple (Managing Partner, Clutch Consulting Group), and Kevin Barth (Commerce Bank) presented updates. Since the program's ordinance in February 2026, $1 million in initial funding has been supplemented by an additional $3 million: $1 million from the city budget and $2 million in HOME funds (subject to HUD approval) for tenant-based rental assistance. The city retained Mandy Chapman Simple as a consultant, and the KC Chamber of Commerce endorsed the program. Resignations of the Continuum of Care (COC) executive board were noted, raising concerns about the upcoming NOFO (June 1st) and HUD funding. The city recommended an audit to address claims raised by the COC executive committee. - Mandy Chapman Simple presented data: approximately 1,750 single adults enter homelessness annually in the Kansas City region, with 87% experiencing new homelessness and 300 experiencing long-term homelessness (over one year). The optimized system plan includes four components: 1) eliminate encampments and prevent new street sleeping, 2) provide rapid interventions for newcomers, 3) target deep interventions for long-term homeless individuals, and 4) prevent future homelessness. Year-one targets include 400 rapid resolutions for newly homeless individuals and 200 deep interventions, focusing on downtown zones (Power & Light, Jazz District, Country Club Plaza). The estimated year-one budget is $10 million, with $4 million from the city and the remainder from private sources. - Kevin Barth reported that a small group of business leaders has been engaged, with a larger meeting scheduled for the following day (May 8, 2026) to build a funding advisory council. He emphasized broad support from the business community and the Chamber's endorsement. - Council Questions and Comments: - Councilman Ray asked about Houston's 60% reduction in homelessness followed by a recent increase. Mandy Chapman Simple attributed the increase to the expiration of ARPA funds and a lack of sustainable municipal funding, noting that Houston has a revenue cap. Councilman Ray proposed a dedicated sales tax for homelessness, similar to the public safety sales tax, to generate $22–$24 million annually and avoid reliance on federal funds. He also questioned how the plan's year-one targets align with existing outreach capacity; staff explained that the program adds dedicated resolution capacity and interdepartmental coordination. - Councilman Duncan supported the program, emphasizing the need to prove the concept to build public and private support. - Councilwoman Patterson raised concerns about the concentration of housing vouchers in low-income, redlined neighborhoods, warning that the program could exacerbate concentrated poverty. She stated she would introduce legislation to require equitable distribution of vouchers across the city. - Councilwoman French asked about the definition of long-term homelessness (over one year) and noted that the year-one target of 400 rapid resolutions leaves 1,350–1,500 individuals unaddressed. Staff responded that the program is a first step to build proof points, and that existing continuum resources help some individuals. Mandy Chapman Simple added that 85% of those receiving deep interventions do not return to homelessness within 12 months of exiting. Councilwoman French also stressed the need for Northland involvement and a citywide housing assessment. - An unnamed councilmember (likely Councilman Ray or another) questioned the long-term sustainability of the program, given future general fund pressures. He noted that homelessness is a major threat to downtown businesses and economic competitiveness, citing examples of cities with high office vacancy rates. He called for a clear long-term funding plan. Another councilmember (likely Councilwoman Patterson) emphasized the need to engage communities on the east side that have long dealt with homelessness but may not have the same advocacy resources. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes of the March 5, 2026 business session were approved unanimously. - No Formal Vote on the Housing Gateway Program: The session was a discussion and update; no vote was taken on the program itself. - Legislation to Be Introduced: Councilwoman Patterson announced she will introduce legislation to ensure the equitable geographic distribution of housing vouchers, aiming to prevent the concentration of poverty. - Next Steps: The Housing Gateway Program team will hold a meeting with business and philanthropic leaders on May 8, 2026, to formalize a funding advisory council and raise private funds. The city will continue its homeless system evaluation, including an audit of COC claims, and will engage with council districts and the public for input.

The Kansas City Council met on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting was presided over by Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw due to the absence of Mayor Quinton Lucas and Councilmember Melissa Robinson, who were recorded as out for the duration of the meeting. Eleven council members were present. The session included special actions, same-day resolutions, final readings, and committee advances covering a wide range of topics from police funding to transportation plans and community development. Special Actions (Consent Calendar) - Resolution 260364 – Declaring April 23, 2026, as Take Your Kid to Work Day. Adopted unanimously (11 ayes, Lucas and Robinson out). - Resolution 260365 – Celebrating 100 years of service for Soroptimist International of Kansas City. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260366 – Recognizing the Historic West Bottoms Association for over a decade of activities. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260405 – Honoring artists involved in the weaving nets art installation commemorating Kansas City hosting six FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 260406 – Recognizing April 29, 2026, as National Denim Day and honoring the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. Adopted unanimously. Same-Day Resolutions - Resolution 260403 – Directing the City Manager to develop standard operating procedures for waiving Minority and Women Business Enterprise (M/WBE) participation goals across all incentive agencies, with a report due within 30 days. Passed (10 ayes, 1 nay – Willett; Lucas and Robinson out). Discussion Items Police Settlement Funding and Oversight (Ordinances 260340 and 260065) - Ordinance 260340 – Authorized the transfer of $5,900,000 from the Legal Expense Fund to the Kansas City Police Department for legal settlement expenses due May 1, 2026. An amendment to add an accelerated effective date was adopted (11 ayes). The ordinance then passed as amended with 11 ayes (Lucas and Robinson out). - Ordinance 260065 – A committee substitute that would create a new fund (“KCPD Overage Fund”) for police costs exceeding the 25% annual budget threshold (Mo. Rev. Stat. 84.730) and require council approval of future settlement agreements. After extensive debate, a motion to hold the item on the docket failed (5 ayes, 6 nays). The ordinance was then re-referred to the Finance, Governance, and Public Safety Committee by unanimous consent. HUD Section 108 Loan Guarantee Pilot Program (260362) - Councilmember Patterson Hazley sponsored a resolution directing the City Manager to implement a pilot program to secure financing through HUD’s Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program for removing chronic blight, pledging future Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds as security. The resolution was adopted as substituted (10 ayes, 1 abstention – Willett; Lucas and Robinson out). Updated Street and Transportation Plans (260341) - Adopted an updated Major Street Plan, Streets Design Guide, and Vision Zero Action Plan, as required by the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Passed unanimously (11 ayes; Lucas and Robinson out). Other Ordinances (Advanced from Committees) All ordinances on the consent and debate dockets were passed with specific votes as noted below: - 260356 – GIS software contract with Esri ($2,125,000 over three years). Passed 10-1 (Willett nay; Lucas and Robinson out). - 260357 – West Bottoms infrastructure change order ($732,659) and kiosk lease. Passed 10-0-1 (Willett abstain; Lucas and Robinson out). - 260336 – Rezoning 0.15 acres at 3112 Flora Avenue for accessory parking. Passed 11-0. - 260347 – HIV case management grant ($1,579,691). Passed 10-0 (Lucas, Willett, Robinson out). - 260348 – Disease Intervention Specialist Workforce grant ($419,678). Passed 10-0 (Lucas, Willett, Robinson out). - 260349 – CDC public health grant amendment ($739,567; total $9,306,095). Passed 10-1 (Willett nay; Lucas and Robinson out). - 260350 – Childcare sanitation inspection contract ($101,574). Passed 11-0. - 260351 – Major amendment to redevelopment plan at 63rd and Bushman Drive for an entertainment venue. Passed 11-0. - 260296 – Permitting pedicab operations in Country Club Plaza. Passed 11-0. - 260332 – Citywide supplemental workforce contract ($2,000,000). Passed 11-0. - 260353 – Emergency transmission water main repairs ($2,700,000). Passed 11-0. - 260354 – Fire hydrant replacements ($1,500,000). Passed 11-0. - 260355 – Emergency valve replacements ($1,500,000). Passed 11-0. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 260340 (Police settlement funding) – Passed as amended with accelerated effective date; 11-0. - Ordinance 260065 (Police overage fund) – Re-referred to Finance Committee. - Resolution 260362 (HUD Section 108 pilot) – Adopted as substituted; 10-0-1. - Resolution 260341 (Vision Zero plans) – Adopted; 11-0. - All other ordinances on the consent and debate dockets passed as listed. - Several first-reading ordinances were introduced and referred to appropriate committees, including multiple items related to the 435 & Soccer Drive Tax Increment Financing Plan, vacant building regulations, and other community development measures. - Two floor introductions (260407 – Brookside Shops CID improvements; 260408 – Health and wellness discount listing) were referred to committees. - The council also received and filed communications, including easements and temporary traffic regulations. Note on attendance: The official minutes and transcript indicate that Mayor Lucas and Councilmember Robinson were absent for the entire meeting, though the transcript shows Lucas voting on some items; this discrepancy is noted. The minutes are treated as authoritative.

The Kansas City Council met on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognitions, adoption of numerous ordinances, a major debate on the Kansas City Royals stadium negotiations, and reconsideration of the Retail Alcohol Impact Areas ordinance. All votes are recorded from the official minutes. Special Actions - Resolution 260344 – Honoring Victoria Brady for achievements in girls' flag football and national NFL FLAG representation. Adopted unanimously (12-0, Mayor Lucas out). - Resolution 260345 – Recognizing National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in Kansas City. Adopted unanimously (12-0, Mayor Lucas out). - Resolution 260346 – Recognizing April 2026 as Second Chance Month in Kansas City. Adopted 10-3 (Lucas, Willett, Duncan out). - Resolution 260361 – Recognizing April 11–17, 2026 as Black Maternal Health Week. Introduced as floor special action and adopted unanimously (12-0, Willett abstaining). Same Day Resolution - Resolution 260358 – Directing the City Manager to evaluate potential relocation sites for the Korean War Memorial, with emphasis on high visibility and scenic value. Adopted 13-0. Councilmember Willett noted veterans' support and proactive planning amid stadium discussions. Consent Calendar The following ordinances were adopted with minimal debate unless otherwise noted. Votes reflect the final roll call, with any dissenting votes recorded. - 260277 – Amending street vending prohibition to 300 feet from established businesses during operating hours (from 50 feet). Passed 13-0. - 260334 – Approving $2,030,048 in Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund contracts for 246 nonprofit organizations. Passed 12-1 (Willett nay). - 260335 – Enacting a Kratom retail license with $500 annual fee, age and labeling restrictions. Passed 13-0. - 260337 – Rezoning 3.5 acres at North Broadway and NW Barry Road to B2-1 for a drive-through. Passed 13-0. - 260338 – Detaching 4.5 acres for annexation by Liberty, Missouri (church property). Passed 13-0. - 260342 – Transferring permitting functions from Water Services and Public Works to City Planning and Development. Passed 12-1 (Curls nay). - 260343 – Appropriating $517,846 for stabilization of historic structure at 1815 Paseo. Passed 13-0. - 260312 – Authorizing one-year contract renewal with LAZ Parking for parking management services (estimated $1M). Passed 11-1-1 (Willett nay, Robinson out). - 260328 – Authorizing $1,500,000 contract with SHEDIGS IT, LLC for Forcemain Assessment. Passed 12-0 (Robinson out). - 260329 – Authorizing $4,000,000 design contract with Burns & McDonnell for Brookside Phase 5 sewer separation. Passed 12-0 (Robinson out). - 260333 – Authorizing $6,000,000 for Green Infrastructure Maintenance Program. Passed 10-2-1 (Willett nay; Patterson Hazley and Robinson out). Discussion Items Kansas City Royals Stadium Negotiations (Ordinance 260339) Council considered a committee substitute reaffirming intent to negotiate with the Royals for a new stadium and development district in the Washington Square Park/Crown Center area. The ordinance authorized the City Manager to negotiate a term sheet, lease, and development agreement, apply for TIF, and appropriate $250,000 for professional services. Amendment by Councilmember Duncan – Required that the development agreement and any community benefits agreement be subject to City Council approval. The amendment passed 13-0. Final vote on amended ordinance – 11 ayes (Lucas, O'Neill, French, Rogers, Patterson Hazley, Robinson, Bunch, Curls, Parks-Shaw, Bough, Duncan), 1 nay (Willett), 1 abstain (Rea). Supporters cited economic development, state funding availability, and community benefits. Opponents expressed concerns about taxpayer risk and process. KCPD Overage Fund and Settlement Funding (260065 and 260340) Two related items: 260065 creates a KCPD Overage Fund for police legal costs beyond the 25% statutory budget threshold, and 260340 appropriates $5,900,000 from the Legal Expense Fund for KCPD legal settlements. Councilmember Robinson moved to go into closed session (pursuant to §610.021.1 RSMo) to discuss the litigation underlying the settlements. The motion passed 11-1 (Willett nay). After returning to open session, the items were held for one week without objection. Councilmember Willett opposed the overage fund structure, advocating for full police funding without creating a separate classification. Retail Alcohol Impact Areas – Reconsideration (Ordinance 260250) Council reconsidered ordinance 260250, which designates areas with acute public safety impacts from retail package alcohol sales and places conditions on licenses. The original version was passed at the previous meeting. First amendment by Councilmember Bough – Reduced the number of impact areas from five to three (removing the Midtown corridor and initially the Blue Ridge corridor). The amendment also adjusted malt beverage restrictions to 40 ounces or less and set a 60-day effective date. After debate, Councilmember Bough restored the Blue Ridge corridor per requests from 5th District members. Councilmember Rogers attempted to further lower the malt beverage limit to 12 ounces, arguing that small liquor bottles are the main concern and that beer restrictions cause revenue loss without addressing the problem. That amendment failed 5-7. The amended ordinance passed 9-3 (French, Rogers, Rea nay). Positions: Councilmember Robinson (3rd District) supported the larger limit, citing problems with tall boys. Councilmember Bough emphasized evidence-based targeting. Councilmember Rogers advocated for a narrower approach. Several members noted that the ordinance is a starting point and can be refined. Key Outcomes - Royals stadium negotiations authorized; city manager to bring back development agreement for council approval. - KCPD settlement funding held for one week; council will revisit on April 23, 2026. - Alcohol impact zones approved for three areas (Blue Ridge corridor, 3rd District area, and another area) with 40-ounce malt beverage limit and 60-day effective date. - All consent calendar ordinances adopted as noted. - Several first-read ordinances were referred to committees (e.g., HUD Section 108 loan pilot, TIF plan for 435 & Soccer Drive, water infrastructure contracts). - The council went into closed session under §610.021.1 RSMo to discuss legal matters related to police settlements.