Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City Council met on September 11, 2025, beginning with an invocation by Pastor Troy Campbell marking the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Councilmembers Lucas, O'Neill, Willett, French, Rogers, Robinson, Rea, Bunch, Curls, Parks-Shaw, Bough, and Duncan were present (Councilmember Patterson Hazley was out). The meeting featured significant debate on a legislative priority opposing the state's congressional redistricting map, along with votes on affordable housing funding, zoning changes for used car lots, and a new fee structure for outdoor dining permits. Special Actions & Recognitions - Vamos KC Employee Resource Group: Council adopted Resolution 250717 recognizing Vamos KC during Hispanic Heritage Month. Chair Karen Lopez spoke, emphasizing the city's strength in its diversity and supporting the immigrant community. - Municipal Employee Sports League (MESL): Resolution 250726 honored the MESL for its second successful year, fostering camaraderie and physical activity among city employees across departments. - Guadalajara Sister City Week: Resolution 250783 recognized September 12–17 as Guadalajara Days, celebrating the decades-long sister city relationship and welcoming a delegation. Speakers highlighted cultural and economic ties. - OHM Concession Group: Resolution 250810 recognized the group for winning the 2025 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) Hospitality Awards, including the first-ever Global Award for an American airport restaurant (Kansas City Barbecue Experience). Legislative Priority: Congressional Redistricting - Resolution 250807: The Council adopted, 11-1, a resolution establishing opposition to the proposed congressional redistricting map in the Missouri General Assembly's special session as a major city legislative priority. Councilmember Rea (sponsor) argued the map disenfranchises urban and minority voters. Councilmembers Bunch, Duncan, Curls, Rogers, and Parks-Shaw spoke in support, noting racial implications and the division of Kansas City along Troost Avenue. Councilmember Willett voted no, citing the need for the city to first address its own council district population imbalances. Housing Trust Fund Allocation - Ordinance 250631 (Amended): Council approved an amendment and then passed (12-0) a $6,980,346 appropriation from the Housing Trust Fund. The amendment removed $2.8 million for the Benton Apartments project due to a large funding gap, added funding for the 9th and Central project, and recaptured funds from earlier rounds (Parade Park Homes, Prospect at 35th, Marlborough Townhomes). The City Manager was directed to reevaluate unawarded Round 5 applications with reprogrammed dollars. Zoning and Development Code Changes - Used Motor Vehicle Sales Lots (250530): After extensive debate, the ordinance passed 10-1-1 (Councilmember Curls nay, Councilmember Willett abstain). It establishes special use permit requirements and operational standards for used car lots to curb blight, grandfathering existing operations. - Country Club Plaza Boundary (250639): Passed 12-0. Adjusted the boundary of the Country Club Plaza zoning area, updating definitions and regulating height and uses for a specific site. - Nuisance Code and Native Plants (250637): Passed 12-0. Codified allowances for managed natural landscapes (native plant yards), providing rules for boundaries and height while prohibiting encroachment and noxious weeds. Business and Fee Regulations - Sidewalk Cafe Fee Moratorium (250673): Passed. Established a temporary three-year moratorium on the $850 annual permit fees for sidewalk cafes, parklets, and street cafes to support small businesses. - Tow Truck Regulations (250709): Passed. The "Tow 2.0" ordinance requires tow operators to provide a "bill of rights" to vehicle owners, display it publicly, report tows via an online platform, and prohibits towing from accident scenes unless called by law enforcement or public works. Transportation and Infrastructure - Multi-Modal Transportation Commission (250638): Passed 12-0. Repealed the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee and the Parking and Transportation Committee, establishing a new Multi-Modal Transportation Commission. - Airport Parking Management (250702): Passed 12-0. Authorized a 5-year, $11.27 million contract with SP Plus LLC to manage airport parking operations. - Digital Kiosks (250680): Held on the docket for one week. A request for a hold on the agreement with Ike Smart City, LLC for digital kiosks was unopposed. - Infrastructure Projects: Passed appropriations for the NW Old Tiffany Springs Road traffic signal ($160,000), Stadium Drive streetscape ($1.5 million), Water Main Replacement ($4.38 million), and NW Waukomis Drive improvements ($335,039). - Housing and Community Development: Passed the acceptance of a $771,680 Central City Economic Development (CCED) Tax Board recommendation for two projects. Committee Referrals (First Readings) - Multiple items were introduced and referred to committees for further review, including health grants (HIV, TB, public health preparedness), plats (KCI Logistics, Trails at Ambassador), a rezoning on Troost Avenue, the North Oak TIF plan, the tax levy, the Global Music Strategy, fire truck procurement, an airport lease, the Roy Blunt Luminary Park development, and opioid settlement agreements. Councilmember Willett introduced an ordinance modifying city policies on economic development areas and TIF (referred to Finance). Mayor Lucas and Councilmember Bunch introduced an ordinance reallocating funds for the Broadway Bike Lane and Southwest Blvd study (referred to Finance). Key Outcomes - Adopted resolution opposing state congressional redistricting map (11-1). - Passed Housing Trust Fund ordinance with amendment (12-0). - Passed three-year moratorium on sidewalk/parklet/street cafe annual fees. - Passed new tow truck operator regulations (Tow 2.0). - Passed zoning ordinance regulating used motor vehicle sales lots (10-1-1). - Passed code update allowing native plant landscapes. - Passed Country Club Plaza boundary amendment. - Established the Multi-Modal Transportation Commission. - Accepted various grants and infrastructure contracts. - Held ordinance on digital kiosk contract for one week. - Referred multiple items to committees for further review.

The Kansas City Council convened on August 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM with 12 members present (Councilmember Lindsay French absent). The meeting covered special recognitions, final readings of ordinances, consent and debate dockets, and first readings. Key outcomes included approval of a bike share expansion with an equity study, termination of a longstanding Tax Increment Financing (TIF) plan, and a $3 million infrastructure funding package. Special Actions - Resolution 250707 – Recognized Head for the Cure for its 23rd annual 5K raising awareness for brain cancer research. The organization has raised over $30 million since 2003, with the Kansas City event alone raising over $7 million and attracting 80,000 participants. Adopted unanimously (11-0, French absent). - Resolution 250710 – Honored professional boxing referee Tony Weeks, born in Brooklyn and a 25-year veteran of maximum-security prison recreation before refereeing iconic fights. Adopted unanimously. Consent Calendar - Ordinance 250650 – Approved the plat of 9640 North Indiana in Clay County for a two-lot residential development on approximately 10 acres. Passed (11-0, O'Neill and French absent). - Ordinance 250653 – Accepted a $64,414 Jackson County COMBAT grant for the Municipal Court Truancy Court Program. Passed (11-0). - Ordinance 250647 – Authorized a five-year lease (with four five-year renewals) with the Waldo Community Improvement District for surfacing parking lots at 74th and Broadway, estimating $19,800 in revenue. Passed (11-0). - Ordinance 250648 – Similar five-year lease with The Brookside Community Improvement District for lots at 63rd and Brookside Plaza, estimating $36,285. Passed (11-0). - Ordinance 250649 – Committee Substitute for a five-year lease with Second Presbyterian Church and The Crestwood Shops for parking lots at 318 E. 55th Street, estimating $2,700. Passed as substituted (11-0). Discussion Items - 250621 – Music Preservation Resolution (Sponsor: Councilmember Robinson): Recognized Kansas City’s commitment to sustainable development through music preservation, education, tourism, and entertainment. Councilmember Bough noted it affirms the mission of UNESCO and local partner Creative City KC. Passed (11-0). - 250623 – Winchester Center TIF Termination (Sponsor: City Manager’s Office): Terminated the 1991 Winchester Center TIF Plan and its 14 redevelopment project areas after the 23-year tax redirection period expired. An amendment by Councilmember Curls added a whereas clause to clarify that approximately $127,000 in surplus funds from prior ordinances would be used for blight removal in the 5th District. Passed as amended (12-0). - 250604 – Bike Share KC Amendment (Sponsor: Director of Public Works): Authorized Amendment No. 1 to the 2025-26 Cooperative Agreement with Bike Share KC, adding $218,000 (total $632,960) for 100 new bicycles and six months of operation. Councilmember Robinson moved an amendment requiring the City Manager to submit a funding plan within 90 days to expand the system equitably, with emphasis on trail connectivity and areas with high transit dependency (e.g., 3rd and 5th Districts). Councilmember Curls raised concerns about the lack of bike share south of 87th Street. After debate, the amendment passed (12-0), and the ordinance as amended passed (11-1, Curls nay). - 250643 – Surplus TIF Revenue Policy (Sponsor: Councilmember Bough): Enacted Section 2-1972 to direct use of surplus TIF revenue, requiring TIF Commission staff to semi-annually review TIF plans with excess funds and recommend terminations. Passed (11-0). - 250655 – Brownfields Loan for FC Parade Park (Sponsor: Director of City Planning): Approved a loan from the Brownfields Revolving Loan Fund not to exceed $2,541,318 (increased by $281,168 due to a fire on the property), with conditional approval to the Port Authority and a principal discount up to $500,000. Councilmember Patterson Hazley’s amendment to increase the loan amount passed (12-0). Passed as amended (12-0). - 250675 – Conflict of Interest Annual Report (Sponsor: Mayor Lucas): Repealed and reenacted Section 2-2024 to meet Missouri statute requirements, allowing the city to establish its own disclosure method. Councilmember Willett abstained. Passed (11-0-1). - 250631 – Housing Trust Fund Appropriations (Sponsor: Director of Housing): Proposed $6,980,346 in funding agreements. Held on docket after councilmembers Robinson and Patterson Hazley raised concerns about lack of access to full applications and project readiness. City Manager agreed to review. Motion to hold passed (12-0). - 250651 – Shelter Plus Care Grant (Sponsor: Director of Health): Accepted a $583,444 HUD grant for permanent supportive housing for persons with HIV/AIDS, with a $600,941 contract to SAVE, Inc. Passed (12-0). - 250669 – Swope Health Village Development (Sponsor: Mayor Pro Tem Parks-Shaw): Authorized up to $4 million from the Health Levy Fund for site preparation and development at 5900 Swope Parkway, waiving Code § 74-12 for extended timeline. Passed as substituted (12-0). - 250654 – Smart City Contract (Sponsor: Director of General Services): Exceeded the $400,000 threshold for a seven-year contract with Smart City of Kansas City, LLC for temporary utility services at convention facilities, including a $2.3 million network upgrade at Smart City’s cost. Passed (11-0-1, Willett abstaining). - 250660 – Airport Taxiway B Reconstruction (Sponsor: Director of Aviation): Repealed prior ordinance to accept a $5,358,363 FAA Airport Improvement Program grant at 90% federal share (up from 75%) for design and construction, to be ready for the World Cup. Passed (12-0). - 250661 – Sensor Network and Watershed Digital Twin (Sponsor: Director of Water Services): Authorized a $2,561,500 contract with D3 Water, LLC for sensor monitoring and digital twin system in Kansas City’s 13 watersheds, a project described as best-in-class nationally. Passed (12-0). - 250662 – Water Main Replacement (Sponsor: Director of Water Services): Awarded a $6,341,956 construction contract to SHEDIGS IT, L.L.C. for replacing water mains along Southwest Boulevard to Main Street (Phase III). Passed (12-0). - 250663 – Electrical Switchgear Improvements (Sponsor: Director of Water Services): Approved a $110,000 amendment to HDR Engineering for secondary electrical switchgear at the water treatment plant, extending the contract by 761 days (total 2,660 days). Passed (12-0). - 250683 – Capital Improvements Appropriation (Sponsor: Councilmember Willett): Appropriated $3,000,033.01 from the Capital Improvements Fund for three projects: Barry and Amity Intersection, Northwest 108th Street Bridge, and Line Creek Parkway, using funds from Platte County. Passed (12-0). First Readings & Floor Introductions - 250711 – New Chapter 52 regulating surface parking lots in entertainment districts (Country Club Plaza, Westport, Crossroads). Referred to Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee. - 250712 – North Oak Trafficway Reconstruction from NE 42nd to NE 46th Street: $5.52 million in capital grants, with a $5.43 million construction contract to Realm Construction and $419,538 inspection contract to Gannett Fleming. Councilmember Rea requested same-day adoption to meet a September 15 groundbreaking ahead of winter and the World Cup. Motion to waive charter requirements passed (12-0); ordinance passed (12-0). - 250713 – Cooperative agreement with Kansas City EDC Loan Corporation for a multifamily project at 9th and Central, using $2.8 million in surplus TIF revenue. Referred to Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee. - 250560 – Rezoning of 2 acres at NW Barry Road and I-29 from AG-R/B3-3 to B3-3 for a car wash (companion development plan 250714 introduced by Councilmember French). Councilmember Willett moved to reconsider (passed 12-0), then moved to re-refer to Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee after an amendment to remove the development plan failed due to concerns about rezoning without a plan. Final action: referred back to committee. Key Outcomes - Adopted Special Actions: Head for the Cure (250707) and Tony Weeks (250710). - Passed Ordinances: Music preservation (250621), TIF termination (250623 as amended), bike share amendment (250604 as amended), surplus TIF policy (250643), Brownfields loan (250655 as amended), conflict of interest (250675), shelter plus care grant (250651), Swope Health development (250669), Smart City contract (250654), airport grant (250660), water infrastructure contracts (250661, 250662, 250663), and capital improvements (250683). - Held: Housing Trust Fund appropriations (250631) – held for two weeks pending review of project readiness and access to applicant information. - First Readings Referred: Surface parking lot regulation (250711), car wash development plan (250714), 9th and Central TIF (250713), and re-referral of car wash rezoning (250560). - Same-Day Adoption: North Oak Trafficway reconstruction (250712) passed with 12 votes. - Closed Session: Council authorized a closed session to discuss legal, real estate, personnel, labor negotiations, and other matters per Missouri law.

The Kansas City City Council held a business session on August 14, 2025, primarily to receive and discuss the City Auditor's performance audit of the City Communications Office. The meeting began with approval of the previous meeting's minutes and concluded with a motion to enter closed session. The City Auditor presented three findings and three recommendations, which the City Manager accepted and outlined a timeline for implementation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of the business session of July 31, 2025, were approved by a voice vote. Moved by the Mayor Pro Tem, seconded by Councilman Curls. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during this session. Discussion Items - City Auditor Report – Communications Audit: - Auditor Shaw summarized the 90-day performance audit, highlighting successes (Office of Language Accessibility and effective branding campaigns) and three key findings: 1. Lack of Clear Leadership: Previous city management did not clearly define the organizational structure after the 2022 departure of the communications director, leading to confusion, low morale, and operational inefficiencies. 2. No Comprehensive Plan: City Communications operated without a documented plan or policies, resulting in ad hoc decisions, slow media responsiveness, and subordination of public information to branding (e.g., withholding data on sexually transmitted infections to protect the brand). 3. Sunshine Law Delays: Departments took an average of 14 business days to fulfill Sunshine Law requests; the audit recommended tracking and reporting such requests. - Recommendations: Hire a communications director, create a comprehensive communications plan, and track Sunshine Law requests. The auditor noted that best practices could not be benchmarked because the city had no identifiable organizational strategy. - City Manager Response: The City Manager agreed with all three recommendations. He stated plans to hire a permanent communications director by early 2026, develop a consistent training plan for public information officers (possibly in a decentralized framework), and evaluate whether Sunshine request tracking should reside in the communications office or elsewhere. - Council Comments and Questions: - Councilman Patterson expressed concern about the reported personnel issues and asked about the city's process for addressing them. The City Manager acknowledged prior problems and stated that the new director would be a team builder, with existing grievance processes in place. - Councilman Duncan thanked the auditing team and praised the audit as a step toward transparency and accountability. - Mayor Pro Tem asked about typical placement of Sunshine request oversight in other cities. The auditor stated that due to the 90-day timeframe, they did not research that specific aspect. The City Manager added that he would consider whether the function should reside in communications or elsewhere. - Councilman Curls emphasized the need for prompt implementation, noting past difficulties with the communications department. The City Manager committed to having a framework in place by early 2026. - Motion to Enter Closed Session: Councilman Patterson moved to go into closed session pursuant to Missouri Revised Statutes (subsections 1, 12, 3, and 13). The motion was seconded and passed by voice vote with 12 members present. Key Outcomes - The City Council received the City Auditor's report on the City Communications Office audit. - The City Manager accepted the audit's recommendations and committed to: - Hiring a new communications director by early 2026. - Developing a comprehensive communications plan and training for PIOs. - Evaluating the tracking of Sunshine Law requests. - The council approved the minutes of the previous business session. - The council voted to enter closed session (12 members present).

The Kansas City Council convened on August 14, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The meeting opened with an invocation by Reverend Candice Barlow of the Lighthouse Church and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council addressed several special recognitions, a major transit service contract with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA), and numerous routine ordinances. All votes took place during the session. Special Recognitions - Forever Smiles Foundation (250656): Recognized the first anniversary of the foundation and honored Dr. Margaret Weiss and Dr. Patrick Christopher for providing high-quality cleft craniofacial care to children locally and in Africa. Councilman O'Neill praised their work. The resolution passed unanimously. - Lincoln College Preparatory Academy Men's Volleyball Team (250676): Honored the team for capturing the school's first-ever district championship in men's volleyball on May 16, 2025, with a 3-0 victory. The team also earned the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-Academic Team honor for the third consecutive year (minimum 3.3 GPA). Councilwoman Patterson-Hansley, Councilwoman French, and Councilman Bunch spoke in support. Unanimously adopted. - Rockhurst High School Track Athletes (250677): Recognized Henry Acorn, Bill Hayes, Andrew Davis, and Jake Bond for outstanding achievements, including winning the 4x800 relay at the Penn Relays in a state-record time of 7:33.83 and finishing first, second, fourth, and fifth in the state in the 800 meters. Councilman Bunch sponsored. Unanimously adopted. - Retirement of Heather Frierson (250678): Honored Heather Frierson for her service as a public information officer since April 2019. Several council members praised her composure and dedication, especially during emergencies. Frierson gave an emotional thank-you speech. Unanimously adopted. Consent Calendar - Final Reading – Rezoning for Car Wash (250560): Rezoned approximately 2 acres from AGR to B3-3 at NW Barry Road and I-29 to allow a tunnel car wash. Passed 10–1 (Councilmembers French and Rogers opposed? Vote record shows 10 eyes, 1 nay; French and Rogers recorded as 'no'). - Advanced Consent – Illuminate KC Lighting (250640): Authorized a $1,072,560 contract amendment with Precision for decorative lighting on a KC water tower. Unanimous. - Advanced Consent – Detainee Housing Contracts (250614): Authorized a $1 million contract with Vernon County and an $830,375 contract with Johnson County Sheriff's Office to house city detainees. Unanimous (10 eyes). - Advanced Consent – Fire Department PPE (250632): Authorized a one-year contract with Weiss Fire and Safety, not to exceed $1,016,675, for cancer-protecting personal protective equipment. Unanimous. - Advanced Consent – Heart of the City TIF Amendment (250636): Increased the maximum TIF loan/grant for housing from $10,000 to $20,000. Unanimous. - Advanced Consent – Water Main Replacement (250629): Authorized a $5,160,000 construction contract with Haynes and Associates for replacing 11,735 linear feet of aging cast-iron water mains on College Avenue to Norton Avenue, East 21st to E31st. Project lifespan: 100 years. MBE/WBE goals: 11% each. Unanimous. - Advanced Consent – Turkey Creek Pump Station Rehabilitation (250630): Authorized a $3,673,700 design contract with CDM Smith for rehabilitating the pump station at 2401 Allen Terrace. MBE/WBE goals: 14% each. Unanimous. Discussion Items - KCATA Transit Contract (250679): The council debated and unanimously (12–0) approved a one-year contract with KCATA for $77,892,519 to provide transit services through April 30, 2026. The council also committed to fully fund an estimated $93,435,252 in a later amendment. Key points: - IRIS on-demand paratransit service will be negotiated separately, limited to Clay and Platte county portions of Kansas City. - KCATA must develop a plan to reintroduce fares (creating a functionally free system) and report quarterly to the council. - The city manager will present a funding plan by December 2025, identifying savings through efficiencies, changes to the MAX route (due to streetcar), and regional partnerships. - Councilmembers Duncan, O'Neill, Willard, Curls, and Mayor Pro Tem expressed support and asked about service continuity, fare policy, and regional cooperation. Councilman Bunch, newly appointed to the KCATA board, emphasized building trust and expanding regional support. - The previous contract was set to expire October 31, 2025; the new contract ensures no service interruption. - Winchester Center TIF Termination (250623): Initially proposed to dissolve the 1991 TIF plan and return surplus funds to taxing jurisdictions. Councilwoman Patterson-Hansley requested clarity on the surplus amount ($127,000) and its use for blight removal in the 5th District. The council agreed to hold the item for one week to allow amendments directing the funds to that purpose. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the KCATA contract (250679). - Rezoning for car wash passed 10–1. - Consent calendar items all passed unanimously except the Winchester TIF item, which was held one week. - Introduced several new ordinances for committee referral: digital kiosk agreement (250680), incentive policy clarification (250681), Metro North Mall plan amendment (250682), and capital improvements fund appropriation (250683). - The meeting adjourned after all business.

This business session of the Kansas City Council, held on July 31, 2025, focused primarily on Ordinance 250622, which would authorize a one-year contract with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and provide approximately $78 million in city funding, with the city manager authorized to negotiate up to $93 million. The discussion involved KCATA leadership, including CEO Frank White III, Commissioner Deb Herman, Vice Chair Bridget Williams, and board chairman Reginald Townsend, along with multiple council members. Key topics included the lack of a signed contract since the previous agreement expired on April 30, 2025, the resulting financial strain on KCATA, and ongoing disagreements over contract terms, performance measures, and the city's demand for transparency and a long-term plan to address a reported $40 million funding gap for the year. The session concluded with a vote to go into closed session to discuss contract negotiations. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes for the business session of July 24, 2025, was moved and seconded, and passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Ordinance 250622 – KCATA Contract and Funding: Councilman Duncan expressed confusion about why the KCATA board did not approve the contract presented to them, noting that provisions in the contract were based on a 2013 resolution and aimed at transparency. Commissioner Deb Herman stated the contract contained language that was an overreach and one-sided, and that KCATA could not sign something that would allow the city to withhold money for unachievable requirements. Councilman O'Neill pushed for a sustainable plan to phase out the city's general fund subsidy, citing a $20 million delta that has persisted for years. Mayor Lucas reframed the issue as a $40 million gap (based on a “dream budget” of $117 million vs. the city's planned $77 million appropriation for FY2025-26). CEO Frank White III said KCATA staff presented six scenarios ranging from $70 million (with cuts) to $117 million (full service); the $93 million figure was the council's request to avoid service reductions, but that did not include IRIS (the Northland service). Councilwoman Patterson Hazley emphasized the council's frustration with conflicting information and a moving target, noting the funding gap has been unresolved since 2013. Councilwoman Robinson stressed urgency, stating KCATA is drawing on a line of credit and paying $62,000/month in interest, and service could be interrupted by mid-August if no contract is signed. She noted that the $78 million ordinance does not include new dollars but would authorize the city manager to negotiate up to $93 million. Councilman Raya questioned why the earlier six-month ordinance (about $46 million) wasn't disbursed; it was explained that money cannot be released without a signed contract, and KCATA did not receive the proposed contract until the end of June. Councilman Willett argued that the zero-fare policy (initiated by the council) has caused safety and financial problems, and he opposed further funding until fare collection is restored. CEO White reported that a new fare system (cashless, with Masabi) is expected to be operational by mid-spring 2026. Councilman Willett also noted that neighboring cities have cut funding due to zero-fare issues. Commissioner Williams confirmed that Johnson County is interested in expanding partnership but needs a five-year projection. A regional transit summit, modeled after the DMV Drive initiative, is planned. The five-year strategic plan is a living document on KCATA's website. CEO White outlined progress: reducing indirect costs from $18 million to $13 million, adding CFO Mike Leone, and working on charging more costs to federal grants to reduce the city's burden. Key Outcomes - No vote on Ordinance 250622 occurred during the public session. The item remained under committee control. - Motion to go into closed session was made and seconded under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 610.021, subsections 1 and 12, to discuss contractual matters. The motion passed by voice vote with all council members present voting aye (Mayor Lucas, Councilmembers Patterson Hazley, Robinson, Raya, Curls, Shaw, Duncan, O'Neill, Willett, French, Rogers, Lucas). - The closed session was held immediately after the vote; no further public action was reported. - The council acknowledged that without immediate action, KCATA could face service disruptions by mid-August 2025.

The Kansas City Council convened on July 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM for a legislative session. The meeting began with an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the adoption of two special resolutions recognizing UNIDOS US and Advocates for Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation (AIR). The legislative docket included numerous ordinances on final readings, a consent calendar, and a prolonged debate on funding for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). The session resulted in the passage of most routine ordinances and the failure of a key KCATA contract amendment due to insufficient votes. Consent Calendar - Items on the consent docket (250592, 250595, 250615, 250620) were approved unanimously (10-0), including a $250,000 capacity building grant from the Kaufman Foundation for the KC BizCare Storefront Vacancy Program, approval of several plats, and termination of a TIF plan. - The advanced readings consent docket (250597, 250606, 250611, 250613, 250555, 250586, 250591, 250616, 250617, 250603, 250607, 250602, 250608) all passed with 10-0 votes. Special Resolutions - 250633: Recognizing UNIDOS US 2025 annual conference "Beacons of Change." Adopted unanimously. - 250634: Recognizing Advocates for Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation (AIR) for contributions to immigrant communities. Councilmembers Duncan, Pro Tem, Ray, Bunch, and the Mayor spoke in strong support, emphasizing the importance of protecting immigrant rights and the organization's work in community defense and language access. The resolution noted that AIR trained 4,000 individuals in 2025 through community defense programs. Adopted unanimously. - 250635: Recognizing National Intern Day and celebrating the contributions of interns across Kansas City. Councilmembers and the Mayor praised the interns' work and encouraged them to consider careers in public service. Adopted unanimously. Discussion Items - 250601: Affordable housing set-aside compliance ordinance. Councilwoman Boo explained it directs the city manager to develop policies for compliance and review within 30 days. Finance committee recommended do pass. Passed 10-0. - 250523: KCI area plan amendment. Adopted a proposed land use map and updated categories for areas near the airport. Neighborhood committee recommended do pass. Passed 10-0. - 250570: Authorizing a design professional contract with Jacobs Engineering for the Rocky Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant Facility Plan (total $1,505,553). Passed 10-0. - 250565: Establishing new salary grades for city manager, city auditor, and city clerk. Initially held, then passed 10-0. - 250593: One-year contract renewal with Allen Gibbs and Houlik for annual independent audit ($615,425). Passed 10-0. - 250594: Appropriating $1.5 million from the Liberty Memorial Trust Fund for repairs. Passed 10-0. - 250597: Industrial development plan for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City, revising job numbers to 460 retained jobs (average salary $105,000), 75 relocated ($75,000), and 50 new ($90,000). Passed 9-0 (one not voting). - 250600: Adopting a comprehensive anti-displacement plan with eight initiatives including establishing an anti-displacement commission and increasing tenant protections. Passed 10-0. - 250622 (KCATA transit contract): A major debate ensued over funding the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. The original ordinance proposed a 12-month contract at $77,892,519, with conditions including a waiver of fund balance policy and a report within 120 days. Councilman O'Neill supported the 12-month term to address KCATA's concerns. Councilman Curls questioned the timeline. Councilwoman Robinson moved to amend the motion to direct the city manager to operate under the prior year's contract until a new contract was reached, arguing that conditions in the May ordinance were untenable for KCATA. After procedural motions, the amendment was put to a vote: the motion to waive standing rules for a written amendment failed (7-5), but the main amendment from Mayor Pro Tem (to authorize the city manager to negotiate a 12-month contract under the prior terms) passed 6-5. However, the amended ordinance then failed on final passage (6-5), as it required seven votes. Thus, no KCATA contract was approved. Key Outcomes - Ordinances passed (all by 10-0 unless noted): 250601, 250523, 250570, 250565, 250593, 250594, 250597 (9-0), 250600, 250606 (9-0), 250611, 250613, 250555, 250586, 250591, 250616, 250617, 250603, 250607, 250602, 250608. - KCATA ordinance 250622 failed on final vote (6-5). The council did not approve a new transit funding contract, leaving the situation unresolved. - First readings were introduced for two items: an amendment to the Country Club Plaza zoning (250639) referred to the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee, and an amendment for decorative lighting on the KCTV5 tower (250640) referred to the Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee. - Committee advances: The council waived charter requirements and advanced all first-reading ordinances to their respective committees.

The Kansas City Council held its regular meeting on July 24, 2025, with 10 members present. The meeting opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by four special recognitions and then the consideration of numerous ordinances and resolutions. All items on the agenda were approved, with some debate on two items. Special Actions - Honored Kathy Carter for her retirement after 23 years and 3 months of city service across multiple departments. - Honored David Leeson, a Staley High School wrestler and state champion, for his academic and athletic achievements. - Honored Nisi's Restaurant on its 40th anniversary, recognizing its role as a cultural institution in the Fifth District. - Honored the Pitmasters, champions of the Foosball Association of Kansas City Summer League, a grassroots youth activity. Consent Calendar The council approved a large consent docket including: - Settlement of a lawsuit for $350,000. - Workers' compensation settlement for $400,000. - Acceptance of multiple federal and state grants for airport improvements (runway and taxiway reconstruction, fence replacement) totaling over $47 million. - Contracts for construction and engineering services, including emergency water repairs and asphalt work. - Several plat approvals for residential and commercial developments. - Grant agreements for violence prevention programs and neighborhood development (e.g., Care Beyond the Boulevard shelter, Ivanhoe senior cottages, Community Capital Fund renewal, and Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission reentry services). - Amendments to development plans and zoning changes (including a correction of a legal description). - A waiver of liens on a property. - Clarification of fence and wall code enforcement. - Removal of a vacant lot from the Ambassador Hotel Historic District. - Establishment of the Crossroads Community Improvement District with a half-percent sales tax. Discussion Items - Alternative Compliance Parking Plans (Ordinance 250528): Council debated an amendment to allow gravel parking lots in light and general industrial districts (M1 and M2) on parcels over 5 acres not contiguous to residential or downtown districts. After a floor amendment and discussion about runoff and aesthetics, the ordinance passed unanimously (11-0). - Speed Hump Implementation Plan (Resolution 250535): A resolution to install 121 speed humps under Vision Zero was debated. Council members raised concerns about one location on 55th Street that would bypass the petition process. An amendment was adopted to remove that location, and the resolution passed unanimously (11-0). - Other items on the advanced debate docket were briefly explained by committee chairs and passed without further discussion. Key Outcomes - All ordinances and resolutions on the agenda were adopted. - The council unanimously voted to waive the three-reading requirement for committee advances and for second and first reading ordinances. - The charter requirement for special actions was suspended to allow recognition of Nisi's Restaurant and the Pitmasters. - One item (rezone for a car wash, 250560) was held for one week at the request of the sponsor. - The semi-annual docket of ordinances more than six months old was released, deemed lost.

The Kansas City, Missouri City Council held a Business Session on July 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included approval of minutes, a presentation on the Parade of Hearts initiative, and a mid-term review of the Citywide Business Plan with a focus on priority-based budgeting. Council members discussed equity, scoring metrics, and community engagement. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council approved the minutes of the Business Session from June 26, 2025. (Note: The agenda listed July 17, 2025, but the transcript stated June 26, 2025.) The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items Parade of Hearts Update - Jen Nusbek, Executive Director of Parade of Hearts, presented an update on the initiative. Since its founding in 2020, the program has placed 301 hearts, raised $4.5 million, generated nearly 2.5 million mobile check-ins, and achieved half a billion social media impressions. The initiative is currently on hiatus and will return in 2026 with 150 hearts placed across 50 cities, 7 counties, and 2 states. A new web-based app is being developed to support regional tourism and will be gifted to the region after the program concludes. - Council members expressed strong support: Councilman O'Neil noted the hearts are a great marketing tool; Councilwoman French highlighted the arts and tourism benefits; Mayor Pro Tem Parkshaw commended the regional spirit. Councilwoman French also asked about branding integration in the app. Nusbek confirmed that each entity would control its own brand DNA. Citywide Business Plan Mid-Term Review - Tammy Queen, Director of Finance, and new Deputy Director Brenton Siverley presented the mid-term review. The plan includes five goal areas: Finance and Governance, Housing and Healthy Communities, Inclusive Growth and Development, Public Safety, and Infrastructure and Accessibility. The presentation focused on priority-based budgeting (PBB), which scores programs based on alignment with the citywide business plan and program attributes. An example of solid waste management was given, scoring 67 out of 80. - Council members raised several concerns: - Councilwoman Robinson questioned how equity and inclusivity are incorporated into scoring. Staff responded that the citywide business plan carries the highest weight, so equity objectives can be included there. - Councilwoman Patterson had difficulty connecting goals to funding decisions and requested more training and examples of low-scoring programs. - Councilwoman French asked about community stakeholder feedback beyond the resident survey; staff noted the survey is the primary source but council input is also incorporated. - Mayor Pro Tem Parkshaw requested that public comments from budget hearings be included and suggested a work session for deeper understanding. He also asked for the scoring metric to be presented for council approval. - Councilman Bunch (Mayor Lucas) noted the importance of fund balance and structural imbalance, and suggested codifying PBB through an ordinance. He also encouraged collecting data on actual service usage across districts. - Councilwoman Booth acknowledged the need for more time and discussion, and noted that the presentation is a starting point for revisions. Key Outcomes - The council will meet with staff over the coming month to review and propose revisions to the citywide business plan goals and objectives. Revisions are due to the budget office by September 8, 2025. - A follow-up business session presentation on revisions and the five-year forecast will occur in September, with a Finance Committee presentation in October. The five-year forecast must be approved by November 1, 2025 per charter. - Councilwoman Booth expressed interest in codifying a priority-based budgeting policy, which could include scoring guidelines. - The meeting adjourned without further discussion of ordinances or resolutions.

The meeting began at 7:15 PM. The council approved the minutes from the June 5, 2025 business session unanimously. The Parade of Hearts update, requested by Councilman O'Neill, was deferred due to the absence of the councilman and presenters. The council discussed rehabilitation and detention initiatives, including quick-build and permanent facilities, and voted to move into closed session under Missouri statute 16.02.021 (subsections 1, 2, 11, 3, and 13) to further discuss procurement and other matters. The motion passed with one abstention. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes of the business session of June 5, 2025. Motion carried. Discussion Items - Parade of Hearts Update: Deferred to a later meeting or to the Transportation, Infrastructure and Operations Committee due to absence of Councilman O'Neill and presenters. - Rehabilitation and Detention Initiatives: Discussion of short-term and long-term facility plans and other rehabilitation efforts. The council proceeded to move to closed session for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved. - Parade of Hearts update deferred. - Motion to enter closed session passed with one abstention. The meeting moved to closed session for discussion of rehabilitation initiatives. Note: The transcript contained unintelligible segments after the roll call, likely due to technical issues; only identifiable actions are summarized.