Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City Council met on February 5, 2026, at 2:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included special recognitions, passage of ordinances on zoning, infrastructure, economic development, homelessness, and a contentious debate on energy code amendments. Councilmembers Kevin O'Neill, Nathan Willett, Lindsay French, Wes Rogers, Melissa Patterson Hazley, Melissa Robinson, Crispin Rea, Eric Bunch, Darrell Curls, Ryana Parks-Shaw, Andrea Bough, Johnathan Duncan, and Mayor Quinton Lucas were present. Consent Calendar - Multiple ordinances were passed under the consent docket, including: - Committee Substitute for Ordinance 251071: Updates to Municipal Court operations. - Ordinance 260085: Authorizing $658,000 for municipal golf course equipment financing. - Ordinance 260090: Establishing the City Hall Centennial Fund (Fund 6435). - Ordinance 260095: First Amendment to contract with EDC for the ProspectUs Equitable Transit Oriented Development Strategic Plan. - Ordinance 260084: Approving the plat of Viewpoint at Brookwood (193 townhome development). - Ordinance 260091: Accepting $69,946.33 extension for Disease Intervention Specialist Workforce Program. - Ordinance 260099: Accepting $71,149.00 for tuberculosis control activities. - Ordinance 260100: Accepting $45,000.00 grant from FDA/NEHA. - Ordinance 260087: Accepting $145,000.00 State Aviation Trust Fund Grant. - Consent Docket votes were unanimous (13-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were recorded during the meeting. Discussion Items Special Actions - Resolution 260184 (Bloomberg What Works Cities Gold Certification): Councilperson Wes Rogers sponsored a resolution congratulating the Citywide Bloomberg What Works Cities team for achieving Gold Level Certification, recognizing data management, performance analytics, open data, and leadership. The resolution was adopted unanimously (13-0). - Resolution 260185 (Aim4Peace Violence Prevention Program): Councilperson Melissa Patterson Hazley sponsored recognition of Aim4Peace for 18 years of service. Statistics cited included a 47% reduction in homicides in long-term service areas, 59 fewer violent incidents, over 1,000 hours of community canvassing, and over 450 hospital-based responses. Councilmembers praised the program's work and community trust. The resolution was adopted unanimously (13-0). Final Readings – Debate Docket - Ordinance 251026 (City Manager's Severance Authority): After debate, a motion to hold the item off docket for four weeks was replaced by an amendment to strike sections 1 and 2 (communication with staff and employment decisions), leaving only section 3 (severance agreements up to annual base salary). The amendment passed 11-2 (Rea and Bunch dissenting), and the amended ordinance passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260057 (Gashland/Nashua Area Plan Amendment): Approved changing land use from residential medium density to mixed use neighborhood on 1.37 acres at 9820 N. Oak Trafficway. Vote: 9 ayes, 3 nays (Lucas, Willett, Rogers). - Ordinance 260058 (Rezoning 9820 N. Oak Trafficway): Rezoned from MPD to B2-2 for a Popeyes drive-through. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260063 (Parking Near Mailboxes/Storm Drains): Amended to prohibit parking that "actively obstructs the free flow of water" into storm drains, with a report-back in six months. Final vote: 13-0. Advanced Debate Docket - Ordinance 251058 (Economic Development Incentive Policies): Councilwoman Bough sponsored an ordinance creating a new Chapter 74 for equitable economic development. An amendment changed the joint advisory committee from 10 to 9 members. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260096 (Universal Floodwater Detention TIF): Terminated expired TIF phases (II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, XI) and appropriated $5.5 million: $4 million for Front Street Topping and $1.5 million for Levee Trail. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260139 (Right to Counsel Report): Clarified the annual report is public. Passed 12-0-1 (Willett abstained). - Ordinance 260143 (American Jazz Museum): Authorized a $3.2 million cooperative agreement for Phase I redevelopment. Passed 12-0 (Duncan out). - Ordinance 260134 (Special Event Building Signage): Allowed temporary signage during major events (120 consecutive days). Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260135 (Daycare Center Rezoning): Rezoned 0.71 acres at Linwood/Mersington from R-1.5 to O-2 for a daycare with 30-40 children. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260136 (Downtown Rezoning): Rezoned 4.33 acres from DC-15 to UR for commercial/residential, including a 27-story tower with 487 units. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260137 (Building Code Recommendations): Directed the City Manager to develop recommendations for adopting 2024 International Code series, with $122,000 appropriation request. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260140 (Kansas City Housing Gateway Program): Established a municipal voucher program with $1 million reappropriation for homelessness, including wraparound services and a six-month report-back. Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260144 (Energy Code Amendments): After extensive debate, amendments to the 2021 IECC were passed: removed duct leakage testing when all ducts are within thermal envelope, set HERS scores of 70 for homes under 2,000 sq ft and 65 for over 2,000 sq ft. The vote was 7-6 (ayes: O'Neill, Willett, Rogers, Patterson Hazley, Rea, Curls, Parks-Shaw; nays: Lucas, French, Robinson, Bunch, Bough, Duncan). Advanced Debate – TIO Committee - Ordinance 260086 (Water Main Replacement): Authorized a $9,994,000 contract for water main replacement (Brooklyn to Hardesty, 9th to 24th St). Passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260097 (Lead/Copper Rule Compliance): Accepted a $1,869,274 grant from MDNR for service line inspections, with a $1,699,340 contract to Ace Pipe Cleaning. Passed 12-0 (Patterson Hazley out). - Ordinance 260098 (KCI Commerce Center): Authorized Amendment 8 to Trammell Crow agreement for $5.1 million (total $34.3 million). Passed 10-0-1 (Bunch abstained; Patterson Hazley and Rea out). - Ordinance 260129 (Cliff Drive Bike/Pedestrian Connector): Accepted $1.5 million grant for a connector to River Market. Passed 12-0 (Patterson Hazley and Rea out). - Ordinance 260133 (US 169 Trail Overpass): Transferred $3.12 million for a pedestrian bridge. Passed 12-0 (Patterson Hazley and Rea out). Floor Introductions - Ordinance 260191: C-UAS Grant Program ($11,868,979) – referred to Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee. - Ordinance 260192: Tax Redirection Agreement for Seville Plaza Hotel renovation – referred to Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 251026 (Severance Authority) passed 13-0 after striking sections 1 and 2. - Ordinance 260057 (Area Plan Amendment) passed 9-3. - Ordinance 260058 (Rezoning) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260063 (Parking/Storm Drains) passed 13-0 with an amendment adding "actively obstructs" language. - Ordinance 251058 (Economic Development Policies) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260096 (TIF Termination) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260139 (Right to Counsel Report) passed 12-0-1. - Ordinance 260143 (Jazz Museum) passed 12-0. - Ordinance 260134 (Signage) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260135 (Daycare Rezoning) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260136 (Downtown Rezoning) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260137 (Building Code Study) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260140 (Housing Gateway) passed 13-0. - Ordinance 260144 (Energy Code Amendments) passed 7-6. - All infrastructure ordinances (260086, 260097, 260098, 260129, 260133) passed unanimously (with absences noted). - Closed Session was approved 11-0 at the end of the meeting.

This regular meeting of the Kansas City Council began with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by special actions honoring two retiring city employees: Lana Torzin (Law Department, 32 years) and Fire Chief Ross Gunderson (nearly 30 years). The council also adopted proclamations declaring Black History Month and Wetlands Day, and passed several ordinances including funding for a workforce housing project, a new grocery store lease, and amendments to the housing trust fund and sidewalk closure rules. Consent Calendar - 260047: Accepted a one-year grant award ($28,235) from Nurture KC for the Nurse Family Partnership home visiting program. - 260048: Accepted a $300,000, 12-month grant from the Health Forward Foundation for continuation of the Nurse Family Partnership Program. - 260049: Approved the plat of Bungalows at Maplewoods (Clay County, 16 acres) for residential development. - 260050: Approved the plat of Parker Addition (Jackson County, 1.009 acres). - All consent items were approved unanimously (10 ayes). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were recorded during this meeting. Discussion Items - 260138 – Black History Month Proclamation: Councilman Curls introduced a resolution authorizing the city manager to fly the pan-African flag on City Hall at the beginning of Black History Month (February 2026), noting that last year the flag was not raised until the end of the month. The resolution passed unanimously. - 260141 – Wetlands Day Proclamation: Councilman Bunch declared February 2, 2026 as Kansas City Wetlands Day, highlighting the role of wetlands in improving water quality and supporting biodiversity. He also noted that K.C. Water Services received a $363,000 EPA grant to update the city's wetland inventory, making Kansas City the first community in Missouri to undertake such a sophisticated mapping project. Passed unanimously. - 260062 – Costco Resolution: Councilwoman Boo presented a resolution directing the city manager to negotiate with Costco Wholesale Corporation to retain its store at 241 Linwood Boulevard in substantial form or with increased offerings. The resolution passed 9-0. - 251060 – Rezoning at Eastern Ave & Raytown Road: Councilman Willett explained the rezoning of 441 acres from MPD to NPD, and approval of an amendment to allow non-accessory parking. Passed 9-0. - 260060 – Greater Downtown Area Plan Amendment: Councilman Willett presented a rezoning request at 2561 Home Street (0.11 acres) from medium density residential to downtown mixed use (B3-2), consistent with the area plan amendment. Passed 9-0 (one nay). - 260070 – 18th & Vine Jazz District Redevelopment Authority: Councilman Willett introduced a resolution directing the city manager to evaluate the reconstitution of a redevelopment authority for the historic 18th and Vine district to support investment and leasing. Passed 10-0. - 260075 – Data Center Development Impact Review: Councilman Willett presented a resolution directing the city manager to review chapters 17 and 78 of the code and economic incentive policies to evaluate impacts of data center development on water/electricity rates, environmental quality, and economic growth. Councilman Bunch and Councilwoman French were added as co-sponsors. Passed 10-0 (with one added as co-sponsor). - 260027 – Pre-Development Funding for United Believers Housing: Councilwoman Boo presented an ordinance authorizing up to $1.8 million in pre-development funding for a 57-unit workforce housing project (30-60% AMI) adjacent to United Believers Community Baptist Church at 1101 US 71 Highway. Passed 10-0. - 260052 – Housing Trust Fund Affordability Period Amendment: Councilwoman Boo presented an ordinance reducing the affordability period for minor home repair projects from 30 years to 3 years, to remove barriers for low-income homeowners. Councilman Robinson added as co-sponsor. Passed 11-0. - 260069 – Linwood Shopping Center Grocery Store Lease: Councilwoman Boo presented an ordinance authorizing a 10-year lease (with two 5-year renewal options) with United Market KC LLC for a grocery store at 3110 Prospect Avenue, addressing a food desert after the previous store vacated in August 2025. The city previously invested over $50 million in the shopping center. Passed 10-1 (one nay). - 260059 – Rezoning at 2561 Home Street: Councilman Willett presented a rezoning from R-2.5 to B3-2 (0.21 acres) to allow limited auto repair, noting the property had a history of non-conforming use. Passed 11-0. - 260055 – Sidewalk Closure Authority: Councilman Bunch presented an ordinance clarifying authority of the public works director to close sidewalks for construction and to enforce provisions for alternative access. Passed 11-0. Key Outcomes - Retirement Honors: Two special actions were adopted unanimously: honoring Lana Torzin (Law Department, 32 years) and Fire Chief Ross Gunderson (nearly 30 years). - Proclamations: Black History Month (February 2026) and Wetlands Day (February 2, 2026) were both declared unanimously. - Costco Resolution: Passed 9-0, directing negotiation to retain the Linwood Boulevard store. - Workforce Housing Pre-Development: $1.8 million approved for a 57-unit project (30-60% AMI). - Grocery Store Lease: 10-year lease with United Market KC LLC approved (10-1). - Housing Trust Fund Amendment: Affordability period for minor home repair reduced from 30 to 3 years (11-0). - Data Center Impact Review: Resolution passed (10-0) with sponsors added. - Committee Referrals: Several new ordinances were introduced and referred to committees, including: - 260142: Response to MO Department of Revenue RFP for licensed office operations. - 260143: $3.2 million cooperative agreement with American Jazz Museum for phase one redevelopment (referred to Finance, Governance & Public Safety). - 260144: Amendments to energy conservation code (referred to Neighborhood Planning & Development). - The council waived charter requirements for readings of ordinances on consent, first readings, and second readings, all by unanimous votes (11-0). - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after all business was completed.

The Kansas City Council met on January 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM in Council Chambers, 414 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, MO. Mayor Quinton Lucas and all 12 councilmembers were present. The meeting opened with an invocation by Bishop Steve Houpe of Harvest Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. The council adopted several special actions, passed numerous consent and debate docket items, introduced new ordinances, and held a closed session. Special Actions (Consent Calendar) - Resolution 260033 (Councilmember French): Honoring Tracy White on her retirement after more than 36 1/2 years of city service, including managing over 3 million paper records. Adopted unanimously (13 ayes). - Resolution 260034 (Mayor Pro Tem Parks-Shaw): Celebrating 60 years of community service for Christian Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, founded by Bishop Emmanuel Newton. Adopted with 10 ayes; Councilmembers Willett, French, and Robinson were out. - Resolution 260035 (Councilmember Rea): Honoring La Fonda El Taquito Restaurant for nearly 50 years of service, culture, and community on Kansas City's Westside. Adopted with 12 ayes; Councilmember Robinson was out. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment period was listed on the agenda or transcribed. The minutes include written public comments opposing Ordinance 250382 (transit funding), with over 90 individuals submitting opposition. This item was released from the semi-annual docket and deemed lost. Discussion Items - Detention Facility Location Change (Floor Introductions) - Ordinance 260061 (Mayor Lucas and Councilmember O'Neill): Directed the City Manager to expand the Front Street Detention Facility into a permanent detention facility, allowing a land purchase option to lapse and reallocating funding. Passed 10 ayes (Lucas, O'Neill, Willett, French, Rogers, Patterson Hazley, Curls, Parks-Shaw, Bough, Duncan), 1 nay (Robinson), 2 abstentions (Rea, Bunch). Debate included cost comparisons: Front Street estimated at under $60 million for 270 beds vs. $200+ million at I-70/40 Highway. Councilmembers Rea and Bunch expressed concerns about lack of community engagement and transparency, noting that the I-70/40 Highway site had six community sessions and was presented to voters during the public safety sales tax campaign. - Ordinance 260074 (Mayor Lucas): Declaring a moratorium until January 15, 2031, on all approvals for non-municipal detention facilities (e.g., ICE facilities). Passed 12 ayes, 1 nay (Willett). Councilmember Willett questioned state jurisdictional issues, leading to a closed session for legal advice. - Resolution 260077 (Councilmember Patterson Hazley): Directing the City Manager to engage community engagement regarding the detention center at 7750 E. Front Street. Adopted 12 ayes. Councilmember Patterson Hazley stated: "We should let people weigh in … This is also near school." Councilmember Rea noted a high school is 3,000 feet from the site. - Data Center and Large Format Use Regulations (Ordinance 251031) - Amended Chapter 88 (Zoning Code) to define "large format uses" (500,000+ sq ft) and "data centers," establish development standards, and define green roofs. Passed 12 ayes (Councilmember Robinson out). Councilmember Willett called it "a step in the right direction" but expressed concern about school district abatements. Councilmember Bunch said it "addresses some of the zoning issues" but not environmental or economic development impacts. Councilmember Duncan noted the need for a decommissioning provision. Mayor Pro Tem Parks-Shaw thanked staff. The City Manager stated the ordinance puts Kansas City at the "cutting edge" of data center regulation. - Resolution 260075 (Mayor Pro Tem Parks-Shaw, Councilmembers Patterson Hazley, Willett): Directed the City Manager to review Chapters 17 and 78 and economic incentive policies regarding data center impact on environmental quality, consumer water/electricity rates, and local economic growth. Referred to Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee. - Budget and Water Bonds - Resolution 260028 (Councilmember Bough): Adopting the FY 2026-2027 budget development schedule, including public hearings on February 23, March 2, and March 7, 2026, and adoption by March 26, 2026. Passed unanimously (13 ayes). - Ordinance 251027 (Mayor Lucas): A $750 million waterworks revenue bond authorization for the April 7, 2026 ballot. Held off docket to evaluate election dates (options: June, August, or November) and threshold requirements. - Museum of Kansas City Carriage House (Ordinance 260003) - Authorized the City Manager to assist the Museum of Kansas City in applying for up to $1 million in state tax credits from the Missouri Development Finance Board. Councilmember Bough noted these credits would leverage up to $2 million in contributions. Passed unanimously. - EMS Medical Director Contract (Ordinance 260017) - Waived fund balance policy to authorize a $468,000 sole source contract renewal with Emergency Medicine Services of MO, LLC for EMS Medical Director services, with five one-year renewal options. Passed unanimously. - Vehicle Operation as Pretrial Condition (Ordinance 260030) - Amended a prior ordinance to direct the City Manager to seek, as a condition of pretrial release for any Code violation, that the defendant be prohibited from operating vehicles unlawful to operate on streets/highways. Councilmember Rea explained the intent is to address street racing and ATV issues. Passed unanimously (13 ayes). - Brownfields Cleanup Grant (Resolution 260054) - Approved an EPA Brownfields Cleanup Grant application for up to $4 million for 184 additional vacant lots in the Washington Wheatley neighborhood. Councilmember Patterson Hazley noted the grant requires no local match. Passed unanimously (13 ayes). Key Outcomes - Detention Facility Shift: The council voted to pursue a permanent detention facility at Front Street (estimated at under $60 million) instead of the I-70/40 Highway site (estimated at over $200 million), despite concerns over community engagement. The option on the I-70/40 Highway land expires January 26, 2026. A separate resolution mandates community engagement within 60 days. - Non-Municipal Detention Moratorium: Approved a five-year moratorium on private detention facilities, requiring council approval for any such projects. - Data Center Zoning Standards: Enacted new zoning rules for large format uses and data centers; further policy review directed. - Budget Timeline Set: FY 2026-2027 budget process formalized with key dates through March 26, 2026. - New Department Proposed: Ordinance 260076 introduced to create a Department of Justice and Community Intervention (incorporating the Aim for Peace program), referred to a joint committee of Finance and Neighborhood Planning. - Closed Session: Held under RSMo 610.021 (legal advice) to discuss jurisdiction issues related to the detention facility moratorium.

The Kansas City Council held a business session on January 15, 2026, receiving an update from KC2026 CEO Pam Kramer on FIFA World Cup 2026 preparations, discussing a moratorium on non-municipal detention facilities, and considering a jail site purchase from Jackson County. The council also approved minutes from the previous session and moved into closed session. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes: The council voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the previous business session. Discussion Items World Cup 2026 Update (KC2026 Presentation) - Pam Kramer, CEO of KC2026, reported that 146 days remain until the first World Cup match (100 business days). Key developments from the December final draw: Kansas City will host matches including reigning champion Argentina; a potential quarterfinal featuring Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo is possible if both teams advance. Match scheduling includes evening matches, hydration breaks, and variable ticket demand. The transportation plan includes 215 leased buses for airport service, four park-and-ride locations, and regional connectivity to 15 additional sites. FanFest will be open at least 18 days, with operating hours to be finalized. Small business engagement: over 2,500 businesses signed up for the interest forum, 11,000 contacted, and 250 completed readiness assessments. Volunteer applications exceeded 16,000, with over 5,000 interviewed. A new activation space called KC House on the Plaza will host global business leaders and site selectors in partnership with KCADC, EDC, and state departments. Legacy pillars focus on long-term economic impact, brand perception, and access to play. Council Questions and Comments - Councilman Bunch asked about coordination with EDC and KCADC for business recruitment. Kramer confirmed a partnership, with KCADC providing financial support and inviting site selectors. - Councilman O'Neill expressed concern about KCADC having first access and questioned the financial breakdown. Kramer noted KCADC is providing financial support. - Councilwoman Robinson praised Kramer's leadership and asked about council involvement during the games, legacy initiatives, and public infrastructure readiness. Kramer outlined council roles at KC House and FanFest, legacy pillars (economic impact, brand, access to play), and efforts to minimize disruption through self-contained event support and mutual aid for law enforcement. - Councilman Curls asked about the rotation of small business vendors at FanFest. Kramer described a concept for a "barbecue restaurant of the day," coordination with food trucks and fixed stations, and FIFA restrictions (only McDonald's may serve French fries). The team is consulting with the restaurant association. - Councilman Bond contrasted the World Cup communication favorably with the previous NFL draft experience, thanking Kramer for transparency and inclusive outreach. Other Business (Mayor's Remarks) - The mayor announced two items: a moratorium on zoning approvals for non-municipal detention facilities in Kansas City, and a deadline on Jackson County's offer to sell a jail site for $2.3 million off 40 Highway. The city has also explored a site on Front Street. He indicated direction may be warranted to proceed without delay. The council then moved to closed session. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of previous meeting minutes. - Council received the World Cup update with no formal vote; multiple members expressed support and appreciation for the inclusive planning process. - Motion to enter closed session (pursuant to RSMo 610.021 subsections 1 and 12) passed by roll call vote: all present voted aye. - No formal action taken on the moratorium or jail site purchase; these items were likely discussed further in closed session.

The Kansas City City Council convened on January 8, 2026, proceeding with spiritual exercises led by Bishop Steve Haup of Harvest Church, including a prayer for wisdom and the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting primarily focused on recognizing local community achievements, amending procedural motions regarding health levy disbursements, and advancing multiple ordinances concerning city finances, public safety, infrastructure, and downtown revitalization. A unanimous vote was held to enter a closed session for personnel matters before resuming open session to finalize late-discovered ordinances. Consent Calendar - Resolution 26007: Unanimously adopted a special action recognizing Nick Vassos for his 30-year broadcast legacy in Kansas City soccer culture and his contributions to local media. - Resolution (Jack McGovern): Unanimously adopted a special action congratulating Jack McGovern on winning the Class 5A Missouri State High School Athletic Association Cross-Country Championship and recognizing his historic sophomore season, including his 4.1 GPA and student government leadership. - Resolutions for Same-Day Adoption: A motion was passed by 13 ayes to adopt resolutions designated for same-day consideration without prior committee delays. Public Comments & Testimony - Nick Vassos: Expressed deep honor and gratitude, noting the recognition was not just for himself but for the supporters, family, and colleagues who nurtured his career. He pledged to use his platform to highlight Kansas City as a world-class World Cup city. - Jack McGovern: Stated his team's goal to "become people for others" in a vibrant city and thanked the council, teammates, coaches, and family for their support. - Mayor Pro Tem: Expressed strong support for health levy changes, noting he did not like that the funding came from the violence prevention fund but would not fight it today due to other funding opportunities, while urging the City Manager to identify a permanent source in future budgets. - Councilman Duncan: Articulated concerns regarding the Health Department's 2020 shift to an RFQ process, noting it lacked historical precedent and that the Health Commission had unanimously expressed concerns regarding a lack of information on impact and safety net provider timelines. - Councilman Willett: Expressed opposition to holding the earnings tax question on an April ballot instead of November or August, citing constituent preference. - Councilman O'Neill: Expressed interest in running with Councilman Duncan, noting he never ran cross-country in high school but used to play basketball with Jack's grandfather. - Councilwoman Boo (via Councilman Duncan's summary): Clarified her supportive stance on Jack McGovern's achievements and her role in representing his community. Discussion Items - Health Levy Disbursement (Resolution 260026): - Councilman Duncan moved to amend the resolution to rescind the current Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process, which had been in place since November 2020, and to re-integrate the Health Commission into the process to develop performance measures. - Councilwoman Robinson offered a friendly amendment to replace "safety net providers" with "stakeholders" and to include enforcement measures and performance metrics. - Councilman Patterson questioned the indefinite suspension of the current process, suggesting a specific timeline for a new RFQ rather than an open-ended review. - The Mayor Pro Tem noted potential confusion among applicants regarding future processes if the rescission was not paired with a clear directive to proceed with existing processes or a new one. - The amendment was further adjusted to direct the City Manager to evaluate the promulgation of a future procurement process. - Ordinance Holds: - Two items (251026 and 251060) regarding development projects were held for a two-week period to allow for further review and to account for changes in the world or context. - An item regarding water services (251027) was held for one week. - Earnings Tax: Councilwoman Boo introduced the ordinance to place the question of continuing the 1% earnings tax for five years on the April 7, 2026 ballot. Councilman Willett objected to the April timing. - Crime Stoppers Funding (Ordinance 251051): Appropriated $125,000 from the violence prevention fund to the Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission. The Mayor Pro Tem expressed dissatisfaction with the source of funds but supported the appropriation while urging the City Manager to find a permanent funding source in the next budget cycle. - Front Street Detention Facility (Ordinance 251070): Appropriated $3 million to construct a temporary modular jail facility. The Council approved a waiver of lead goal standards due to accelerated schedule constraints and time limits, with Councilwoman Boo clarifying that this does not imply poor design but rather a lack of formal Lead Certification. - Holy Ghost New Testament Church (Ordinance 260031): Councilman Patterson Hasley introduced an ordinance to acquire the historic church at 1815 Pershall St. Councilman Duncan questioned the urgency for same-day adoption, noting the roof had been open for years. The Council clarified that the purchase was necessary to prevent demolition, which would risk the Vine District's historic designation and tax credits. The city would stabilize the building (approx. $40,000 for environmental study and roof closure) before putting it back on the market. - Truman Sports Complex & Downtown Projects (Ordinance 250032): Approved $450,000 for professional services to collaborate with Jackson County on entertainment and recreation projects at the Truman Sports Complex and for downtown planning. Key Outcomes - Votes Passed: - Resolution 26007 (Nick Vassos Recognition): 13 Ayes. - Jack McGovern Recognition: Unanimous. - Health Levy Amendment (Resolution 260026): 13 Ayes (Amended to rescind RFQ, involve Health Commission, and direct City Manager to evaluate future procurement). - Earnings Tax Ballot Ordinance (251029): 11 Ayes, 1 Nay (Councilman Willett). - Crime Stoppers Appropriation (251051): 12 Ayes, 1 Abstention. - Front Street Jail Waiver (251070): 13 Ayes. - Holy Ghost Church Acquisition (260031): 13 Ayes (Same-day adoption). - Truman Sports Complex Services (250032): 12 Ayes, 1 Abstention (Councilman Patterson Hasley's motion to advance waived charter requirements). - Directives: - The City Manager is directed to evaluate the promulgation of a new health levy procurement process and report on performance metrics and enforcement. - The City Manager is directed to identify permanent funding sources for Crime Stoppers in the next budget cycle. - The City will acquire the Holy Ghost New Testament Church property for $340,000 to stabilize it and preserve the Vine District's historic status. - Next Steps: - Two development-related items held for two weeks. - Water services item held for one week. - Closed session entered and adjourned for personnel matters. - Earnings tax question to be placed on the April 7, 2026 ballot pending city clerk notice.

The City Council convened for its first business session of 2026, beginning with the approval of minutes from the December 11, 2025 session. The primary agenda items included an update on the "Open Doors" storefront vacancy program to support World Cup activations, and the introduction of a new Housing and Community Development data dashboard. The session concluded with a motion to enter a closed session regarding contractual issues related to the health levy funds. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the business session held on December 11, 2025, via unanimous voice vote (aye). No other motions were made under this category. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilwoman Robinson: Expressed a position of interest in ensuring economic mobility on the East Side and questioned whether data was collected regarding which districts participated in the program's webinars. She inquired if strategic outreach was used to reach entrepreneurs who are typically left out of such processes. She further emphasized the need for sustained investment in the 18th and Vine district beyond the temporary World Cup timeline, rather than simply filling vacancies to look good for the event. - Councilman Bunch: Expressed general support for the project. He inquired about the specific target number of spaces and noted that 122 applications were received. He offered to assist in identifying additional properties to reach the desired capacity. - Councilwoman Patterson: Inquired about the status of General Services properties and the office space formerly occupied by BizCare, expressing a willingness to link city-owned vacancies with the program to match businesses. - Councilman Bunch (follow-up): Reiterated the need for capacity and support structures to ensure the sustainability of businesses after the short-term leases expire, while supporting the program's requirement that businesses share in the cost (20% difference) to ensure "skin in the game." - Mayor Pro Tem Tim: Expressed interest in receiving a specific breakdown of the 5,100 units tracked in the new dashboard, distinguishing between preservation units and newly developed units. He also sought a timeline for integrating data from other incentive agencies into the dashboard. - Councilman Duncan: Expressed appreciation for the transparency provided by the new dashboard, stating that while future tweaks will be necessary, the foundational hard work has been completed. - Mayor: Expressed confidence in the council's collective support for the 10,000-unit housing goal, noting that the goal was established around August 2022 and that the council has witnessed transformative changes in housing. Discussion Items - Open Doors Program Update: Assistant Director Neil Webster and Regina Sosa from the EDC presented an update on Ordinance 250436. The program aims to activate vacant downtown storefronts for the World Cup (May-July 2026). Key details discussed included: 122 retail applications received (with 52 moving to selection committee review), a target of identifying 20 properties to create up to 20 spaces, and the provision of temporary subsidized leases (3-6 months) with grants up to $10,000 for business build-outs. The EDC noted that private property owner applications remain open until January 30th, aiming to have leases finalized by February 20th. - Housing and Community Development Dashboard: Deputy Director Deion Lewis presented the new data dashboard designed to track progress toward the citywide goal of 10,000 affordable housing units by 2027. The dashboard tracks projects funded by federal (CDBG, HOME) and local (Housing Trust Fund, CEDD) sources. The team outlined plans to incorporate data from other agencies (EDC KC, Port KC, Health Department) into the system within the next 3-4 months. - Closed Session Motion: Mayor proposed splitting the closed session topics, prioritizing discussions on contractual issues related to the health levy funds before returning to an open session and addressing entertainment sports facilities later. Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: Approval of December 11, 2025 minutes (Unanimous). - Program Status: The "Open Doors" program is active; private property applications remain open until January 30, 2026. The EDC is seeking more properties to meet the goal of 20 spaces to match the 52 qualified retail concept applicants. - Data Initiatives: The Housing and Community Development Department is moving forward with the new dashboard. Staff committed to providing the Council with a breakdown of preservation vs. new units and will aim to integrate external agency data within 3-4 months. - Closed Session: Moved to enter closed session pursuant to RSMo 610.021 and 12 to discuss contractual issues regarding the health levy funds. Roll call vote result: All members voted Aye (Rhea, Bunch, Gilles, Park, Shaw, Duncan, Neil, Willie, French, Rogers, Patterson, Hasley, Robinson, Lucas).

The City Council of Kansas City convened for its regular meeting on December 18, 2025, to recognize local athletic achievements, debate the authority of elected officials over city staff, and approve a series of legislative priorities, budget amendments, and zoning changes. A significant portion of the deliberation focused on the balance of power between the council and the City Manager regarding staff directives, resulting in a motion to hold an ordinance pending further administrative clarification. Consent Calendar - Resolution 251068: A unanimous resolution was adopted to congratulate the Platte County Pirates football team for winning the Class 5 Missouri State Championship, highlighting their 28-game winning streak and double state title victory. Council members and the team exchanged remarks on the accomplishment. - Ordinance 250993: Accepted the annual schedule of standing committee meetings and business/legal sessions for 2026, clarifying dates for holidays and recess periods. - Ordinance 251026: Passed to codify the City Manager's authority over administrative affairs, including the hiring/firing of staff, direct communication channels, and the process for severance agreements with unclassified employees. - Ordinance 251036: Adopted the City's major priorities and positions for the 2026 Kansas State Legislature session. - Ordinance 251037: Adopted the City's major priorities and positions for the 119th United States Congress in 2026. - Ordinance 251038: Adopted the City's major priorities and positions for the 2026 Missouri General Assembly session, with amendments added to support eliminating the Medicaid benefits cliff for individuals with developmental disabilities and mandating DUI ignition interlock requirements for first-time offenders. - Ordinance 251050: Approved the KCI Area Plan amendment to rezone approximately 107 acres at Northwest 100th and North Platte Purchase Drive from low-density residential/mixed-use to medium-density residential. - Ordinance 251016 (Hold): Held over for one legislative week due to its overlap with the KCATA funding item. Public Comments & Testimony - Platte County Pirates Team: The team, including Coach Oots and several players (e.g., Jack Oots, Lucas Dillingham), expressed gratitude for the recognition. Coach Oots noted the academic achievements of two players and the athletic success of a player who participated in the Native American All-American Bowl. The team acknowledged the support from the community and the city. - Councilman Duncan: Expressed consternation regarding potential exemptions from mandatory infrastructure requirements (specifically water mains) in recent zoning approvals, arguing that the current policy unfairly allows new developers to benefit from infrastructure built by previous developers without paying for it. - Mayor Pro Tem Tim: Advocated strongly for the Violence Prevention Fund, expressing that the fund is reaping significant benefits in crime reduction (citing Santa Fe district homicide drops) and opposing the allocation of $2.5 million from this fund to cover KCATA operational costs, arguing it would destabilize the program. Discussion Items - Ordinance 251026 (City Manager Authority): - Positions: Council members expressed concern that the ordinance, which codifies the prohibition of individual council members issuing directives to staff, might erode their ability to hold staff accountable or request information efficiently. Councilman Raya and Councilman Robinson noted that while they understand the need to prevent lobbying, they require clarity on how to escalate unresolved issues. Councilman Patterson Hasley emphasized the need for objective staff and expressed concern that staff copying the City Manager on all communications could politicize the legislative process. Conversely, Councilman Willett supported the ordinance's intent to restore the City Manager's role and ensure accountability chains remain intact. - Outcome: Due to the desire for more detail on the newly adopted Administrative Regulation (AR) aligning with this ordinance, the Council voted to hold the ordinance until the AR and implementation memos are provided to ensure staff expectations regarding communication are clear. - Ordinance 251053 (KCATA Funding Amendment): - Positions: Councilman Duncan introduced an amendment to prohibit KCATA from removing or replacing sitting benches with lean benches without Council approval, which passed unanimously. Mayor Pro Tem Tim introduced an amendment to remove the city's appropriation of $2.5 million from the Violence Prevention Fund to cover KCATA operational costs, arguing that the fund must be preserved for its crime-reduction outcomes. This amendment passed (10 ayes, 3 nays). Councilwoman Robinson and Councilman Bunch opposed the removal of funds from the Violence Prevention Fund, arguing it would force further service cuts to the bus system, though the amendment ultimately succeeded. - Key Argument: The debate highlighted a tension between protecting the Violence Prevention Fund's fiscal integrity and meeting the immediate funding gap for KCATA, which requires dipping into reserves below its policy threshold. - Zoning and Development: - Several rezoning requests were discussed, including a laundromat at 63rd and Troost, a CID in Hill Crest, and religious assembly zoning. Councilman Duncan voted against a religious assembly project (251056) due to the removal of water infrastructure requirements, sparking a broader discussion on developer infrastructure policies. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolutions and Ordinances: - Passed resolutions congratulating the Platte County Pirates and the City's legislative priorities for 2026 (Kansas, Missouri, and Federal). - Adopted the KCATA contract amendment (251053) with the modifications to bench requirements and the removal of Violence Prevention Fund appropriations. - Approved zoning changes for residential development in the Northland (107 acres), a CID in Hill Crest, a laundromat, and a church. - Authorized $15 million in design-build contracts for wastewater facilities and $400,000 for a violence prevention outreach contract. - Adopted the 2026 committee meeting schedule. - Held Items: - Ordinance 251026 (City Manager Authority) was held to await the Administrative Regulation. - Ordinance 251001 (City Manager authorization for KCATA contract) was held. - Votes and Tallies: - City Manager Authority Ordinance: Motion to hold passed (12 ayes, 1 nay). - KCATA Amendment (Benches): 13 ayes. - KCATA Amendment (Violence Prevention Fund): 10 ayes, 3 nays. - Final KCATA Ordinance Vote: 12 ayes (one absence, one nay originally, then amended). - Next Steps: The City Manager is directed to provide the Administrative Regulation and implementation details regarding staff-council communication protocols for future review. KCATA is directed to implement priority-based budgeting and utilize reserves for cost offsets as part of the amended agreement.

The Kansas City City Council convened on December 11, 2025, to address the honoring of retiring employee Michaela Mays, adopt several resolutions for immediate recognition and code updates, and advance multiple ordinances regarding development, public safety, and infrastructure. The meeting concluded with the waiver of reading requirements for first-read ordinances and the late introduction of two new items. Consent Calendar - Honoring Michaela Mays: The Council unanimously honored Michaela Mays for 32 years of dedicated service to the City of Kansas City. Mays began as an equipment operator in 1993 and served various roles including General Supervisor, Engineering Technician Lead, and Principal Engineering Technician in Public Works and the Water Department. Mays expressed gratitude for her family's support, her father's encouragement, and the value of acquiring diverse skills beyond her initial job description. - Honorary Resolutions: The Council passed resolutions to celebrate Hanukkah with a menorah lighting ceremony at City Hall and to adopt several TIF plan amendments, project progress determinations, and director appointments for various CIDs (Community Improvement Districts) without debate. Public Comments & Testimony - Michaela Mays: The honoree spoke about the adversities she faced as a woman in a male-dominated labor field in the 1990s, the importance of continuous training, and her desire to inspire others. She credited her father and family for her work ethic. - Councilman Duncan: Raised concerns regarding the lack of investment in the Housing Trust Fund within the 800 Grand TIF agreement and the need to critically analyze the cumulative impact of tax incentives on school funding, referencing a recent school bond passage. - Councilman Bunch: Argued that the 800 Grand project provides a "pilot schedule" that protects the school district from revenue loss for the first 10 years and generates significant future revenue, countering the argument that the city is purely redirecting school taxes. - Councilwoman French: Clarified the removal of Ruskin Heights from the violence prevention ordinance, noting that additional committee discussion was required for that specific neighborhood before proceeding. - Councilman Duncan (Re: Ruskin Heights): Noted the late introduction of the Ruskin Heights ordinance (251063) and requested it be placed on the docket. Discussion Items - Energy Conservation Codes (Resolution 2025-251035): The Council directed the City Manager to develop recommendations to align Kansas City's Chapter 18 with the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and surrounding municipalities. - Positions: Councilwoman Bunch and Councilman Ray supported the directive to ensure regional alignment. Councilwoman French emphasized a forward-looking approach to adopt 2024 codes rather than reverting to 2021 standards. Councilman Duncan expressed concern about the 45-day timeline, noting it was insufficient for a comprehensive review and preferred a holistic discussion of all regional codes, including the 2024 revisions which some municipalities had rolled back. - 800 Grand TIF Plan (Ordinance 251042): Council debated a resolution approving an amendment to the 800 Grand TIF plan, authorizing up to $11.98 million in city contributions to reimburse redevelopment costs for a hotel and music hall project. - Positions: Councilwoman Boo expressed full support for the economic development but cautioned against a lack of vigilance regarding 30-year tax commitments and the need to assess total incentives across projects to protect school funding. - Positions: Councilman Rogers argued that tax incentives are necessary to convert vacant, unsafe buildings into tax-generating properties and create jobs, urging the Council to look at the "big picture" of safety and activation. - Positions: Councilman Bunch clarified that the school district is "held harmless" for the first 10 years and will receive over $12.4 million in net revenues over 30 years if the project proceeds, contrasting this with the foregone revenue if the project does not move forward. - Positions: Councilman Duncan questioned the absence of affordable housing mandates in the agreement, asking specifically about contributions to the Housing Trust Fund. Staff confirmed a $1.7 million contribution to the fund. - ERP System Modernization (Ordinance 251043): Discussion centered on replacing the 2004 legacy PeopleSoft system with Workday. - Positions: Councilwoman Boo expressed strong support, stating the current system is outdated, difficult to support, and limits HR/financial functions, making the modernization a necessity. - Violence Prevention Contracts (Ordinance 250941): Council discussed amending the ordinance to exclude Ruskin Heights while approving contracts for four other neighborhood organizations (Independence Plaza, Northtown, Fort Creek, Marlborough Heights, Ivanhoe) to prevent violent conflict. - Positions: Councilman Curl stated the amendment was necessary to allow other neighborhoods to proceed while Ruskin Heights is discussed separately in committee due to specific neighborhood questions. Councilwoman French confirmed this approach to avoid delaying the broader initiative. - Rezoning and Development: Various rezonings were discussed for commercial use (electronics wholesaler), a wastewater treatment facility in the Northland, and infrastructure improvements. - Positions: Councilman Willett expressed appreciation to staff for community engagement and adjustments made to the wastewater treatment facility site, noting it resolved previous controversy. Key Outcomes - Resolution 2025-251062: Passed unanimously (12-0) honoring Michaela Mays on her retirement. - Resolution 2025-251047: Passed unanimously (12-0) celebrating Hanukkah. - Resolution 2025-251035: Passed unanimously (12-0) directing the City Manager to review energy codes and report back within 45 days. - Ordinance 2025-251042: Passed unanimously (11-0) approving the 800 Grand TIF plan amendment with a $1.7 million Housing Trust Fund contribution. - Ordinance 2025-251043: Passed unanimously (11-0) authorizing the Workday ERP system implementation. - Ordinance 2025-250941: Passed unanimously (11-0) as amended to authorize $1.6 million in contracts for four neighborhood outreach teams (excluding Ruskin Heights). - New Ordinance 2025-251063: Added to docket post-meeting to authorize a $400,000 contract for Ruskin Heights for the same violence prevention program. - New Ordinance 2025-251064: Added to docket post-meeting for a $40,000 digital connectivity grant. - Ordinances 250984, 251020, 250977, etc.: Passed unanimously for various project progress determinations, rezonings, and infrastructure contracts. - Procedural Motions: The Council waived the three-day reading requirement for second-read ordinances and waived the requirement for first-read ordinances, scheduling them for next week's final readings or committee referral (specifically moving Ord 251048 from TIO to MPD/Water Services).

The City Council convened to address three primary agenda items: the codification of the Economic Development Incentive Policy, a winter weather operations update from the Public Works Department, and an update on Cold Weather Shelters for the unhoused population. The meeting focused on establishing clear policy frameworks to ensure equitable economic growth, reviewing municipal preparedness for extreme winter conditions, and expanding shelter capacity through public-private partnerships. Council members expressed strong support for the new economic development roadmap while raising questions regarding operational transparency and resource allocation for snow and shelter services. Consent Calendar - The Council unanimously approved the minutes of the previous meeting via motion, second, and a voice vote of "aye." Public Comments & Testimony - Councilman Curls: Expressed concern regarding the delay in trash collection due to snow events, noting that delays can extend into weekends, leaving trash out for an extended period in his district. He requested a clear, communicated plan for resuming these services to prevent prolonged storage of waste. - Councilman Rogers: Highlighted inconsistencies in snow clearing on school district routes and detour roads, citing accidents caused by inadequate plowing on detours. He urged the city to prioritize school bus routes and emergency routes to ensure student safety. - Councilman Patterson: Noted an overrepresentation of services and shelter beds in the Third District compared to other areas, advocating for a more citywide equitable distribution of resources and requesting a visual map of service locations. Discussion Items Economic Development Incentive Policy Update - Councilwoman Boo (Presenter): Presented an ordinance codifying existing, previously scattered economic development policies. She outlined a multi-phase roadmap (6-18 months) directed at the City Manager to: - Develop a new community benefits analysis structure based on clear public priorities and transparent scoring. - Create a tiered incentive policy incorporating location-based metrics and targeted industries. - Establish an incentive toolbox and public-facing portal for efficiency. - Conduct an audit of economic development agencies. - Develop plans for City-owned land assembly, event programming, and future transit needs. - Mayor Pro Tem Tim: Expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the need for a "tiered rate system" to remove guesswork from project evaluation and ensure taxpayers receive a tangible return on investment compared to private investors. - Councilman Bunch: Praised the effort to move away from a "rudderless," project-by-project approach toward a systematic framework that clearly defines public benefit expectations. - Councilman Patterson: Urged the Council to address the tension between staff commitments made to developers before Council approval and the need for policy consistency. He advocated for a clear policy framework that prevents political exceptions and ensures staff actions align with Council directives. - Councilman Curls: Emphasized the need for the new policies to specifically spur economic development in the 5th District, which he noted feels left out and underserved compared to other parts of the city. - Councilwoman Boo (Response): Confirmed that the goal is to provide certainty and clear expectations for developers and staff alike, ensuring that future deals align with established policy goals to avoid surprises or exceptions. Winter Weather Operations Update - Michael Saw (Director of Public Works) & Blaine Proctor (Director of Housing): Provided a technical overview of snow operations, including: - Preparation: Training began in September; routes were condensed from 60 to 92 to improve efficiency and speed of service. - Resources: 11,000 tons of ice melt, 32,000 tons of salt, and 60,000 gallons of brine on hand. - Recent Storm Performance: Acknowledged challenges with frigid temperatures, high winds preventing pre-treatment, and a 10-12 hour active snow event. Reported substantial road clearing within 18 hours after the snow stopped. - Councilman Raya: Questioned the forecasting models used (American vs. European). Director Saw confirmed reliance on "Weather or Not" and local forecasts, promising to research the European model's accuracy. - Councilman Raya (Follow-up): Inquired about the suspension of trash services. Director Saw explained the policy generally triggers suspension at 5-6 inches of snow or temperatures below negative 15°F to protect staff from frostbite. - Councilman Curls (Follow-up): Reiterated concerns about trash delays spilling over to the weekend and requested confirmation of a plan to minimize the duration of out-of-service periods. - Councilman Rogers & Curls: Coordinated requests to integrate school district emergency routes into the city's prioritization system and to track metrics on routes near schools and detours to improve safety for students. - General Discussion: Council members acknowledged the immense scale of the city (318 square miles) and noted that while performance was good compared to St. Louis (4 weeks vs. 9 days), there is always room for improvement in communication and route management. Cold Weather Shelters for the Unhoused - Deputy Director of Housing: Presented the shelter activation plan based on temperature thresholds: - Level 1: <32°F (790 beds available). - Level 2: <10-25°F (Adds beds, total increases). - Level 4: ≤10°F (Adds 66 beds at Turning Point, total 931 beds). - Funding: The City funds 491 beds, while community partners leverage additional beds to reach a total of 931. All beds are currently fully utilized. - Councilman Curls: Emphasized the success of leveraging partnerships to double bed capacity. Expressed concern that the additional beds at Turning Point are only available at the lowest temperature threshold (Level 4) and encouraged expanding access at higher temperatures in the north. - Councilman Patterson: Requested a citywide map overlaying current shelter bed locations vs. areas of need (encampments) to address the perceived overrepresentation of services in the Third District and ensure equitable distribution. Key Outcomes - Motion Carried: Unanimous approval of the minutes. - Policy Roadmap Established: The Council agreed to the ordinance codifying existing policies and directing the City Manager to develop a comprehensive, equitable economic development framework. The ordinance is scheduled for committee review next Tuesday. - Operational Directives: The Council directed Public Works to explore integrating school bus routes into snow prioritization and to improve data communication regarding road closures and detours. - Shelter Expansion Confirmation: Confirmed that the City has successfully expanded cold weather shelter capacity to 931 beds through partnerships, with immediate action items to provide mapped data to the Council to analyze service distribution equity. - Audio Equipment Note: Councilman O'Neill confirmed that IT improvements were made to enhance microphone audio clarity for council members.