Public Meetings - Kansas City, Missouri

On May 1, 2025, the Kansas City Council held a public work session to interview three finalists for the position of city manager. The meeting took place from approximately 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The three candidates were Deputy City Manager Kamiko Gilmore, Planning and Development Director Mario Vasquez, and former Aviation Director Pat Klein. Each candidate gave an opening statement and then answered questions from council members. No public comments were heard. The council did not make a final selection; supplemental written questions are to be submitted by May 2, 2025, with further discussions expected. Discussion Items Kamiko Gilmore – Deputy City Manager - Gilmore emphasized servant leadership, collaboration, accountability, and transparency. She stated, “Government should make people's lives better.” - Her first 100 days would include a “Kansas City Conversations Listening Tour” to meet with neighborhood leaders, small business owners, faith communities, and city staff. - She identified three client groups: residents, the city council (13 bosses), and city staff. She said she is “100% for affordable housing” and committed to equity. - Gilmore expressed strong support for the council-manager form of government, calling herself a “purist.” - On economic development, she said Kansas City is “open for business” but that the council's policies must be followed. She noted the importance of listening to neighborhoods and adhering to area plans. - She addressed workforce morale, employee retention, and the need for trust. She stated she would “run towards the fire” in times of crisis. - She discussed her experience with the Linwood CID and the Homesteading Authority, and acknowledged challenges with houselessness and food insecurity. Mario Vasquez – Director of Planning and Development - Vasquez has 28 years of city service. He stated that his approach is collaborative and that he brings integrity and honesty. - His top three priorities in the first 90 days would be: (1) building trust through community engagement, (2) assessing the management structure and department heads, and (3) addressing immediate needs such as World Cup preparedness and critical vacancies (Office of Emergency Management and Fire Chief). - He advocated for stability and coaching rather than large-scale changes. He said, “This city manager has to come into this position with the mindset of a coach.” - On pay equity, he emphasized periodic market studies and alignment of classifications. - He identified the renewal of the earnings tax (April 2026) and the Central City Economic Development Tax as critical revenue sources. - Vasquez supported the council-manager form of government and pledged to work for all 13 council members. - He highlighted his work on the Linwood shopping center project and stressed the importance of basics like home renovation and infrastructure in disinvested areas. - He noted that the city’s housing supply is flat despite rising prices, and called for fixing delivery of housing units. Pat Klein – Former Aviation Director - Klein led the $1.5 billion KCI airport project, which he said was delivered on time and on budget. He emphasized relationships, communication, and data. - He proposed a 30-day “current state analysis” covering the budget, World Cup preparations, and major projects (jail and LID). A 90-day action plan would follow. - He committed to monthly one-on-ones with each council member, monthly meetings with department directors and union leaders, and quarterly meetings with business and community groups. - Klein stressed “relationship-driven transparency” to restore trust, including an open-door policy for employees. - He would use resident satisfaction surveys and data cross-referencing to guide budget priorities. - On economic development, he said he would be a “tough negotiator” on behalf of taxpayers and would work to reduce reliance on subsidies over time. - He expressed concern about the budget given federal tariffs, recession risks, and potential loss of grants. He noted that the city may face a reduction in force if revenues drop. - Klein supported the council-manager form and said his role is to implement policy set by the council. Key Outcomes - The council interviewed all three finalists and heard extensive responses on trust, economic development, workforce morale, public safety, and fiscal stability. - Council members may submit supplemental written questions to the candidates by 9:00 AM on May 2, 2025. Candidates will provide written responses. - No city manager was selected during the meeting. The council will continue deliberations and expects to make a decision in the near future.

The April 24, 2025 business session of the Kansas City Council focused on updates regarding the IRIS microtransit service and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) operations. Key discussions included the potential suspension of IRIS, proposed service reductions due to funding constraints, and concerns over the impact on riders and drivers. Council members debated continued funding and introduced a motion to extend IRIS for six months. The meeting concluded with a vote to enter closed session to discuss legal matters. Consent Calendar - A motion regarding a "PUPAL amendment" was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Terry O'Toole, president of Kansas City Z Trip WHC (the operator of IRIS), presented cost reduction strategies including reducing the vehicle fleet from 30 to 20 (35% cost savings) and limiting trip lengths. He stated that the majority of independent contractor drivers are satisfied with their arrangement and that drivers can choose to become W-2 employees. He noted IRIS currently provides around 441,000 trips annually with about 1,048 daily trips, 350 of which are work-related. - Frank White III, CEO of KCATA, presented the impact of the six-month funding ordinance (46.7 million dollars) and proposed service changes: reduced span of service (5am–11pm weekday instead of 3:30am–1am), reduced headways (major routes at 20 minutes peak, hourly on others), and no route eliminations. He recommended a Comprehensive Service Analysis (CSA) costing approximately $700,300 (mostly federal grants) to redesign service with community input, which would take about a year. Discussion Items - IRIS Service Funding: Councilman Rogers announced his intent to introduce an ordinance to fund IRIS for an additional six months at a cost of $3 million. He also requested interim funding to keep IRIS running past the April 30 suspension date. Councilwoman French expressed support. Jason Walter, Transportation Director, stated IRIS costs about $500,000 per month ($6 million annually) and that staff could explore short-term extensions but could not commit. Councilwoman Robinson requested detailed revenue and cost data and argued that cutting IRIS harms vulnerable populations and contradicts the city's original intent. Councilman Curls raised concerns about independent contractor drivers being charged fees and insisted that driver issues must be addressed before continued support. - KCATA Service Changes: Frank White III explained that without additional funding, KCATA will implement service reductions: weekday span from 5am to 11pm, major routes (24, 31, Main Max, Troost Max, Prospect Max) at 20-minute headways 6am–6pm and 30-minute outside that window, all other routes at hourly headways. Weekend service will see similar changes. The cost to maintain current headways is an additional $2.75 million over six months. Councilman Duncan questioned the discrepancy between the approved $46.7 million and the presented $51.7 million for current service; White clarified the latter is the cost of current service before cuts. Councilman Curls asked about alternative scenarios; White noted 12 scenarios were considered and the presented one avoided route eliminations per the council's request. Councilwoman Robinson expressed that hourly headways are unacceptable, particularly for low-income riders. Councilman Robinson also noted that the city is using PMT tax funds for other priorities instead of transit and that over $15 million from the welfare tax has been diverted to the general fund. - Regionalization & Future Planning: White reported that the KCATA board approved starting a regional summit within 90 days and is working on a regional fare system. A CSA would be completed by early 2026. Key Outcomes - Councilman Rogers will introduce an ordinance to extend IRIS funding for six months; no vote was taken on the proposal. - No immediate decision was made on interim IRIS funding; staff will continue to explore options. - KCATA's proposed service reductions are set to take effect without additional funding; council members expressed strong dissatisfaction but took no formal vote to block them. - A motion to enter closed session under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 610.021(1) to discuss legal matters was approved via roll call: 10 ayes, 1 no (Councilman Robinson opposed), 0 abstentions.

The Kansas City City Council met on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers. 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, and Johnathan Duncan were present; Mayor Quinton Lucas was excused and did not vote on most items but participated in the discussion on IRIS. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Rick Hawkins and the Pledge of Allegiance. The Council adopted numerous resolutions and ordinances, including several ceremonial recognitions, land use changes, and major infrastructure contracts. A significant floor debate centered on the future of the IRIS microtransit service, resulting in the withdrawal and referral of related legislation to committee. Ceremonial Actions - Take Your Kid to Work Day (RES 250349): The Council declared April 24, 2025, as Take Your Kid to Work Day. Adopted unanimously (11 ayes). - Honoring John Sharp (RES 250350): A resolution honoring former State Representative and Councilmember John Sharp for his decades of public service and community leadership. Adopted unanimously (11 ayes). - Denim Day 25th Anniversary (RES 250366): The Council celebrated the 25th anniversary of Denim Day and honored the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOSCA) for their work. Adopted unanimously (11 ayes). Consent Calendar (Items on the consent calendar were approved by a single vote without debate on April 24, having been previously recommended by committees.) - Community Improvement District (CID) Director Appointments (RES 250302–250311): Appointed successor directors for ten CIDs, including Flintlock Shoppes, Old Foundation, Landing Mall, InterContinental, Uptown, Flintlock Plaza, Skelly, Creekwood Commons, Wornall Village, and Kansas City International Airport. All passed 9–0 (three members excused). - Performance Audit of City Communications Office (RES 250338): Directed the City Auditor to perform a performance audit of the City Communications Office within 90 days, assessing policies against best practices for transparency and accessibility. Passed 10–0 (Lucas excused; Robinson and Curls out). - Line Creek Valley Area Plan Amendment (RES 241057): Changed recommended land use on 1.5 acres at NW Barry Road and NW Winter Avenue from low-density residential to mixed-use community. Passed 11–0. - Rezoning at NW Barry Road (ORD 241058): Rezoned 1.5 acres from B3-3/R-2.5 and R-7.5 to B3-3 for commercial uses. Passed 11–0. - Heart of the City Area Plan Amendment (RES 250328): Changed future land use on 1.8 acres at Brooklyn Avenue and E. 20th Street from residential low-density to medium-density. Passed 12–0. - Barney Allis Plaza Reconstruction (ORD 250272): Established Fund No. 3456 and appropriated $30,000,000 in taxable special obligation bonds for reconstruction; authorized a $27,092,347 fourth amendment (GMP-4) with McCown Gordon Construction, total contract $118,487,608, for plaza level improvements, perimeter construction, and one-story retail. Passed 12–0. - Firefighter Job Classifications (ORD 250332): Established six new job classifications, retitled one, and enacted pay scales per collective bargaining agreements with IAFF Local 42 and Local 3808; adjusted salary for elective judge positions. Passed 12–0. - Linwood Shopping Center CID Amendment (ORD 250342): Authorized the City Manager to negotiate a lease amendment with Midtown Grocers, LLC, and reduced a contingent appropriation by $1,000. Passed 12–0 (Willett out). - Animal Control Insourcing Side Letter (ORD 250319): Authorized the City Manager to enter into a side letter agreement with AFSCME Local 500 waiving certain requirements for potential insourcing of code enforcement work for animal control services. Passed 11–0. - Emergency Care Hospital at Research Medical (ORD 250326): Approved a major amendment to a development plan for a new 25,000-square-foot emergency care hospital at 6735 Holmes Road. Passed 11–0. - Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and Hotel (ORD 250329): Rezoned one acre at 18th and Paseo from M1-5 to DX-5 and approved a development plan for a museum and boutique hotel. Passed 12–0. - Assisted Living Facility (ORD 250331): Rezoned 1.2 acres at Montgall Avenue and E. 35th Street to UR for an assisted living facility. Passed 12–0. - Brooklyn Avenue Townhomes (ORD 250336): Rezoned 1.8 acres from UR to R-2.5, enabling 29 townhomes. Passed 12–0. - Rezoning at NW 79th Street (ORD 250337): Rezoned 0.8 acres from R-80 to R-2.5. Passed 12–0. - Fleet Vehicle Contracts (ORD 250255): Authorized cooperative procurement contracts exceeding $1,000,000 for the purchase of fleet vehicles from multiple vendors. Passed 12–0. - 31st Street Connector Sidewalks Phase 1 (ORD 250296): Authorized a $2,887,595 design-build contract with Gunter Construction Company for sidewalks from Main Street to Gillham Plaza. Passed 12–0. - Grand Boulevard Bridge Bike/Pedestrian Accommodations (ORD 250297): Authorized a $15,391,961.95 construction contract with Radmacher Brothers Excavating Co. for bike/pedestrian improvements. Passed 12–0. - Street Resurfacing Contracts (ORD 250301, 250313, 250315): Three contracts totaling approximately $24.3 million: from 63rd Street to South City Limits ($9,138,372.50), north of the Missouri River ($10,190,515.00), and from the Missouri River to 63rd Street ($9,486,892.50). Each authorized up to 30% change orders. All passed. - Citywide Pavement Sealing (ORD 250314): $4,703,500 contract with Vance Brothers, Inc. Passed 11–0. - Water Infrastructure Contracts (ORD 250320–250324): Contracts for water treatment plant improvements, ADA compliance (Odimo, LLC, $310,780 amendment), water main replacement at Downtown Airport (SHEDIGS IT, LLC, $7,298,184), redundant feed to Downtown Airport (Burns & McDonnell, $949,936 amendment), and emergency transmission water main repairs (Leath & Sons, $1,650,000). All passed. - Various Plats (ORD 250317, 250318, 250333, 250334): Approved plats for 29 Forest townhomes (0.5 acres, 9 lots), Skyview Crossing Residential (24 acres, 102 lots), State Line Station Unit 4 (8.6 acres, commercial), and Marketplace 152 Lot 4 (1 acre, commercial). All passed. - Traffic Regulations (ORD 250299): Approved various traffic regulations per Chapter 70. Passed 12–0. - Route 9 Sidewalks Project (ORD 250312): Adjusted revenue estimates and appropriations, including $156,900 in capital improvements grant funds and $319,795 from the City of Platte Woods, for the Route 9 Prairie View Road to Platte Woods sidewalks project. Passed 12–0. Discussion and Debate Items - IRIS Microtransit Service Continuation (RES 250368, introduced late): Councilmember Wes Rogers introduced a resolution directing the City Manager to identify funding for IRIS service and negotiate a continuation for 60 days in the upcoming KCATA agreement. The resolution sparked extensive debate: - Councilmember Rogers expressed concern for approximately 250 IRIS drivers who would lose income on May 1 without action. - Councilmember Melissa Robinson offered a friendly amendment reducing the extension to 15 days, which was accepted, and introduced a separate ordinance (ORD 250369) appropriating $2,750,000 to KCATA for maintaining current bus headways, intended to also cover IRIS. - Director of Public Works Michael Shaw clarified that the previously appropriated $46.7 million for KCATA did not include IRIS; continuing IRIS would cost $500,000 per month and reduce the period bus services could be funded. Finance Director Tammy Queen stated that $2.7 million remaining in the fiscal year 2025 contingency fund could cover a short extension, but urged caution. - Several councilmembers expressed confusion, having voted for the KCATA ordinance believing it fully funded “service as is,” including IRIS. Mayor Quinton Lucas suggested the matter be handled in committee. - Councilmember Rogers withdrew his motion for immediate adoption, allowing the resolution to be referred to the Transportation, Infrastructure and Operations Committee alongside Councilmember Robinson’s ordinance for comprehensive discussion. - Floor Introductions: - Towing Practices (ORD 250367): Councilmember Curls introduced an ordinance amending Chapter 76 regarding vehicle towing, including a Towed Vehicle Owner Bill of Rights and reporting requirements within 30 days. Referred to the Transportation Committee. - KCATA Headway Funding (ORD 250369): Councilmember Robinson introduced an ordinance appropriating $2,750,000 to KCATA to ensure current headway times for all routes. Referred to the Transportation Committee. - Other First Readings: Several other ordinances and resolutions were introduced and referred to committees, including land use amendments for development at N. Platte Purchase Drive, Broadway/W. 45th Terrace (278 units), Taliaferro & Browne Prospect Summit Townhomes, health center contracts, a VOCA grant extension, industrial development at Stadium Drive, and zoning changes for communications establishments and day care expansion. Key Outcomes - The Council adopted all items on the consent and debate dockets, as listed above, with most votes passing 12–0 or 11–0. - The IRIS resolution (250368) was withdrawn from immediate adoption and referred to the Transportation, Infrastructure and Operations Committee. - A new ordinance (250369) appropriating $2.75 million for KCATA headways was introduced and also referred to the Transportation Committee. - Communications regarding easements and election results were received and filed. The Council also noted a closed session for legal, real estate, personnel, and other matters.

Meeting called to order at 7:15 PM. The council approved minutes from the March 6, 2025 business session unanimously. The primary agenda item was a presentation on measles from the Health Department, followed by a discussion and a request for immediate adoption of an ordinance regarding the Sum Fresh grocery store on Prospect. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter closed session for personnel matters. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the March 6, 2025 business session: Motion and second carried, all in favor, no opposition. Discussion Items Measles Preparedness Presentation - Dr. Marvia Jones (Health Director) and Cindy Callender (Communicable Disease Epidemiology Lead) presented on the current measles outbreak. Key points: - Measles is highly contagious, airborne, can remain suspended for up to 2 hours, and has an incubation period up to 21 days. - Symptoms include prodrome (fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis) and a maculopapular rash; complications can include pneumonia, brain infections, blindness, and death. Three deaths have been reported in 2025 (two children in Texas, one adult in New Mexico). - As of April 10, 2025, 28 U.S. jurisdictions have reported confirmed measles; six outbreaks (≥3 related cases) in 2025. Texas has over 600 cases, New Mexico 63, Oklahoma 12, and Southwest Kansas 37 cases across 8 counties. - Kansas City has no confirmed cases as of the meeting, but the last outbreak in 2019 had 13 cases. Herd immunity requires 95% vaccination coverage; current rates in Jackson County (the best available data) are below that threshold. - The Health Department is conducting education, coordinating with state and local partners, and preparing communication strategies. - Councilman Ray asked questions about the outbreak trajectory, vaccination rates, free vaccine availability, and capacity. Dr. Jones noted: - The outbreak is likely to reach Kansas City, given movement from Texas through Kansas and low herd immunity. A large Mennonite conference at the end of May could increase transmission. - Vaccination is free for children at the health department; for adults, the cost is $150 per shot (two doses = $300). For those exposed, the vaccine is free. - The health department can test for immunity and will cover costs for those who cannot pay. - Councilman Ray suggested waiving fees for adults and offered to sponsor legislation. Dr. Jones said that could be considered but emphasized waiting for a local outbreak before easing age restrictions (currently first dose at 12-15 months for children, 6 months for outbreak areas or international travel). - Supply of vaccine is currently adequate, but future federal cuts to HHS and CDC are a concern. Nursing staff shortages are a challenge. Sum Fresh on Prospect Ordinance - Councilman Robinson requested immediate adoption of an ordinance (introduced last week, in finance committee) to allow the Prospect Community Improvement District (CID) board members (Mario Vasquez and Camiko Black Gilmore) to negotiate terms with Community Builders KC. The city has already allocated over $700,000 (no new spending). The sticking point is a one-year funding commitment versus a three-year operational requirement. Councilman Robinson expressed concern that the store may close within two weeks without the city investment, citing dire conditions (photo of empty shelves provided). He urged immediate adoption. No vote was taken on the ordinance during this session; it was placed on the docket for debate. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Measles presentation received; council will be kept updated. The health department will continue monitoring, education, and consider waiving adult vaccine fees if needed. - Sum Fresh ordinance: Request for immediate adoption was made; council moved to other business without a recorded vote. - Closed session motion: Council voted to enter closed session for personnel and legal matters (city manager position and pending litigation). Roll call: Robinson (yes), Raya (yes), Bunch (yes), Carols (yes), Shower (yes), Duncan (yes), O'Neil (yes), Willen (yes), French (yes), Rogers (yes), Lucas (yes).

The Kansas City Council convened on April 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM with 13 members present. The meeting featured special recognitions, approval of a $25 million bond plan for the Northland Workforce Development Center, adoption of the FY2024-25 third quarter budget adjustments, and a contentious debate over relaxing conditions for a $1.2 million subsidy to the Linwood Shopping Center grocery store. Several resolutions and ordinances were passed, while one floor introduction failed. Consent Calendar - Special Actions (Unanimous): - Declared March 17–21, 2025 as Community Champions Week and honored KC Shepherd’s Center (250251). - Declared April 13–19, 2025 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (250291). - Declared April 21–28, 2025 as International Dark Sky Week (250293). - Recognized April as Second Chance Month (250294) – held on docket. - Final Readings (Consent Docket): Appointed successor directors to seven Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) – all passed unanimously. - Committee Advances (Unanimous): - Approved plan of finance for City’s contribution to Northland Workforce Development Center, authorizing $25,000,000 in bonds (250250). - Adopted FY2024-25 third quarter budget analysis and unexpended balance rollovers (250277). - Ratified collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 3808 (250280). - Rezoned 10.75 acres near I-29 and Prairie View Road for industrial use (240967). - Established Blue Ridge Crossing CID (250261). - Rezoned 0.4 acres at 47th & Belleview for event venue expansion (250265). - Rezoned 16.3 acres for 116‑unit residential development (29 fourplexes) (250276). - Approved $3,223,310 in Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund contracts (250278). - Amended zoning code to allow duplexes on corner lots in R‑6 districts (250285). - Accepted $4M HUD grant and appropriated $5M for 18th Street Pedestrian Mall, authorizing $7.7M construction contract (250287). - Extended construction timeline for Promise Place affordable housing project (250289). - Authorized CCED funding agreement with Santa Fe Area Council for home rehab (250290). - Approved multiple water, sewer, and infrastructure contracts (250252, 250254, 250256, 250257, 250258, 250260, 250263). - Consented to creation of port improvement district with 1% sales tax (250271). - Enacted ordinance authorizing transit-only lanes (250275) – Councilmember Willett abstained. - Rezoned 4.71 acres at East Truman Road for mixed uses at former Kansas City Star building (250274). Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were recorded on the agenda. Several individuals spoke during special action presentations, including Janet Baker (KC Shepherd Center) who noted that Meals on Wheels funding is threatened and that 20,000 food‑insecure older adults need support. Chief James Kelly (KCFD) reported the dispatch center fields about 365,000 calls annually, with 165,000 emergency dispatches. Dean Gregory (Dark Sky Missouri) thanked the council for advancing safe street lighting. Representatives from maternal health and LGBTQ+ organizations also addressed the council. Discussion Items - Northland Workforce Development Center Finance Plan (250250): Councilmember Willett praised the bipartisan effort and noted the center will train the next generation of workers. The plan uses $25 million in bonds and directs the City Manager to evaluate skill gaps and partner with KC schools. - Safe Haven Baby Box Study (250279): Councilmember Willett’s resolution directs staff to research installing Safe Haven Baby Boxes in fire stations; passed unanimously. - Linwood Shopping Center CID Subsidy (250342): Councilmember Robinson moved to amend the cooperative agreement to allow the CID to release $1.2 million (already appropriated) to the grocery operator without requiring a 36‑month minimum operation period. Opponents (Mayor Lucas, Councilmembers O’Neill, Bough, French, Rogers) raised concerns about no time commitment and broad operational spending. Proponents (Councilmembers Robinson, Raya, Parks‑Shaw, Curls, Bunch, Patterson Hazley) argued the store faces an emergency and needs immediate flexibility. The motion to waive charter requirements and advance for immediate adoption failed 7‑5 (9 ayes required). The ordinance was referred to the Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee. - Floor Introductions: Resolutions recognizing Black Maternal Health Week and honoring local transgender/LGBTQ+ leaders (250340, 250341) were adopted unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved: All consent docket items; debate docket items; committee advances; second reading ordinance 250274; first readings referred to committees; floor resolutions 250340 and 250341. - Failed: Motion to waive charter requirements and immediately adopt ordinance 250342 (Linwood CID) – vote 7‑5. - Referred: Ordinance 250342 to Finance, Governance and Public Safety Committee, due back April 22, 2025. - Appointments: Successor directors confirmed for multiple CIDs. - Next Steps: City Manager to report on Safe Haven Baby Box feasibility; staff to finalize workforce center agreements; Linwood grocery store subsidy conditions to be revisited in committee.

The Kansas City Council convened on April 3, 2025 at 8:15 PM with 13 members present for a meeting that included multiple special recognitions, a contentious debate over a six-month transit funding contract with KCATA, and passage of bond ordinances. The meeting also featured the honorary designation of a street for retired federal Judge Howard F. Sachs and recognition of retiring city employees. Consent Calendar - 250239: Appointing Curtis Cirrus and Stephanie Porter as directors to the 4840 Committee Improvement District (passed 12-0). - 250244: Appointing Mark Joe DeMarco and Jason Sorce as successor directors to the 1111 Grand Community Improvement District (passed 12-0). Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were recorded during the open session. Discussion Items & Special Actions Honors and Recognitions - Ordinance 250243: Honored Judge Howard F. Sachs with the honorary designation "Honorable Howard F. Sachs Road" on West 68th Terrace between Ward Parkway and Valley Road. Councilwoman Boo sponsored the ordinance, citing Sachs' 99 years, 202 days of service including WWII Navy service, drafting the Swope Park Pool desegregation opinion, helping draft the 1962 public accommodations ordinance, and 45 years as a federal judge. The ordinance passed 11-0 after a waiver of three readings. - Resolution 250220: Recognized Gerald Windsor for 34 years of service in multiple city departments (finance, neighborhoods, fire, water services, public works). Adopted by voice vote. - Resolution 250281: Congratulated the Oak Park Northmen boys basketball team for winning the Class 6 Missouri State High School Championship with a record of 31 wins, 1 loss (won last 30 games), scoring 74 points per game. Adopted by voice vote. - Resolution 250253: Honored EKisha Ruff for 15 years of service as a 311 manager and founder of the African American Support Success and Engagement Team (ASSET). Received Exemplary Service Award. - Resolution 250262: Recognized Janet O'Hagan on her retirement after 19 years, 5 months in the Convention and Entertainment Facilities Department. - Resolution 250282: Recognized Krista Morrison for her service as a budget officer and deputy director, noting her role in priority-based budgeting. Adopted 13-0. - Resolution 250283: Honored Chris Arrera for 30 years, 11 months in Water Services Department, including management of 90 water/wastewater projects. Adopted by voice vote. - Resolution 250284: Declared April 7–13, 2025 as National Public Health Week, recognizing the health department's work despite federal challenges. Dr. Jones accepted. Adopted by voice vote. Major Debate: KCATA Transit Funding Contract (Ordinance 250247) The council debated a substantial committee substitute for a six-month contract (May 1 – October 31, 2025) with KCATA for transit services at $46,717,626. Key provisions included: - Requiring headway/route changes to come back to council. - Directing KCATA to reduce overhead and administrative redundancies. - Requesting at least $2.5M from Kansas state government, at least $6.8M from Missouri (a 53% increase), and at least $11M from federal government; also to renew requests in next budget cycles. - Implementing use of city fountain cards with chips for fare collection (with a plan for functionally free fare). - Requiring a report within 120 days on a funding plan for the remainder of FY26. - A motion to remove Section 5 (the funding plan) passed 11-2 (aye: Patterson Hasley, Raya, Bunch, Curls, Parkshaw, Boo, Duncan, O'Neal, Willett, Franch, Lucas; nay: Robinson, Rogers). - The amended ordinance then passed 13-0. Other Legislative Items - 250226: Authorized purchase of one new aircraft rescue firefighting vehicle for the airport at an estimated $1,739,840. Passed 13-0. - 250228: Expended $487,600 from refugee assistance account for emergency housing and case management via Della Lamb and Jewish Vocational Services. Passed 12-0. - 250242: Amended administrative code to add two job classifications, including budget officer. Passed 13-0. - 250246: Authorized a one-month extension for animal campus management with KC Pet Project ($232,222) plus renewal for FY26 at $3.8M, contingent on CUP approval. Passed 13-0. - 250245: Approved appointments to the Board of Zoning Adjustment. Passed 12-0. - 250249: Approved Heart of the City Area Plan amendment for Washington Wheatley neighborhood redevelopment. Passed 13-0. - 250218: Updated liquor license employee requirements by removing redundant Missouri/Kansas background checks and protecting employee personal information. Passed 12-0. - 250237: Accepted $9 million DOE grant to fund building performance standards and energy audits. Passed 11-0. - 250173 & 250174: Bond ordinances for Question 1 (31.85 million), Question 2 (88.08 million), and Question 3 (1.01 million) for general obligation bonds. Both passed 11-0 after waiving three readings. - 250260 (same-day adoption attempt): Authorized $5 million ARPA-funded contracts for Blue River restoration. Motion to waive three readings failed 7-5 (needed 9). Referred to Neighborhood Planning Committee. Key Outcomes - Passed: Honorary street naming for Judge Sachs, multiple retirement recognitions, basketball champions, public health week, consent items. - Passed (amended): Six-month KCATA contract with oversight provisions after debate; Section 5 removed. - Passed: Bond ordinances, building performance grant, liquor license reforms, animal contract, refugee assistance, airport fire truck. - Failed: Same-day adoption for Blue River restoration (250260) – sent to committee. - Referred to Committee: Several late-filed ordinances including zoning amendments, a use tax review resolution, a construction contract for 18th Street Pedestrian Mall, and affordable housing project modifications. - Closed Session: Council voted 11-1 to enter closed session under RSMo 610.021 (subsections 1, 3, 13) for personnel matters (Councilman O'Neill voted no).

The Kansas City Council held a special session on March 27, 2025, convened at 9:09 AM and reconvened at 10:47 AM after a closed session, to address personnel matters. The sole substantive action was the removal of City Manager Brian Platt by a unanimous 13–0 vote. Acting City Manager Kimiko Gilmore will continue in her role pending further council action. Discussion Items - Closed Session: The council entered closed session at 9:12 AM pursuant to Missouri Revised Statutes § 610.021, subsections 1 (legal matters), 3 (personnel), and 13 (personnel matters) to discuss personnel issues. No public comment was permitted. - Open Session and Motion to Remove City Manager: After reconvening at 10:47 AM, Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw moved, seconded by Councilmember Andrea Bough, to remove Brian Platt from the office of City Manager under Section 218(e)(2) of the Charter of Kansas City, Missouri. - Mayor's Statement of Reasons: Mayor Quinton Lucas provided a non-exhaustive list of concerns that led to the removal vote, including: - A jury finding that Platt encouraged staff to lie to the media (referencing Hernandez v. City of Kansas City), resulting in damage to the city's reputation. - Ineffectiveness in handling personnel matters and employee supervision. - Failure to establish clear goals and visions for departments and to adapt to evolving risks. - Failure to implement risk mitigation strategies. - Loss of confidence in Platt's leadership from staff and elected officials. - Poor messaging to city employees on values important to the council. - Unresponsiveness to elected officials on certain issues. - Failure to accept constructive criticism and make substantial changes. - Vote: The roll call resulted in 13 ayes from all council members present (Mayor Lucas and Councilmembers O'Neill, Willett, French, Rogers, Patterson Hazley, Robinson, Rea, Bunch, Curls, Parks-Shaw, Bough, and Duncan). No nays or abstentions were recorded. Key Outcomes - Removal of City Manager: Brian Platt was removed from the Office of City Manager effective immediately. - Acting City Manager: Kimiko Gilmore will continue as Acting City Manager until the council takes further action. - Meeting Adjournment: Following the vote, the mayor adjourned the special session.

The Kansas City City Council met on March 26, 2025, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included the adoption of the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget, passage of ordinances concerning water and sewer rates, community resource centers, fire prevention, and several zoning changes. The council also ratified the suspension of City Manager Brian Platt and the appointment of an acting city manager. Special actions recognized Seven Days of Kindness, Women's History Month, and Dr. Diana Clemens. Special Actions - 250235 (Unanimous): Declared the week of March 31–April 8, 2025 as Seven Days of Kindness in Kansas City, a movement inspired by a 2014 hate crime. Councilmembers urged participation in daily themes of kindness. - 250240 (Unanimous): Celebrated Women's History Month and International Women's Day, honoring internationally born women employees of the city. Councilwoman Bou and Councilman O'Neill spoke in support. - 250241 (Unanimous): Recognized Dr. Diana Clemens for her work with the Future Leaders Irish Network, which has raised over $26 million and reached 391,875 young people with programs on healthy choices and career pathways. Consent Calendar - Items 250138 and others were held off docket as requested. - 250232 (Unanimous): Directed the city manager to issue an RFQ/RFP within 60 days for the design of a community resource center adjoining the courthouse to provide mental health, social services, and housing support. - 250233 (Unanimous): Directed the city manager to collaborate with the Historic Northeast Coalition to prevent fires after 78 structure fires in the area from November 2024 to January 2025. Discussion Items - 250175 – Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget: Councilwoman Boo presented the budget, thanking finance staff and calling for improved future budget processes. The budget included four amendments (A–D) from committee, plus amendment E introduced during the meeting. Amendment E proposed $5 million for 63rd & Prospect redevelopment, Swope Village development, Swope Park pool, and water infrastructure. Councilman Raya and others objected to last-minute amendments, while Councilman Curls argued the 3rd and 5th districts have been historically underfunded. After debate, the water infrastructure item was moved to amendment A, and the funding source for 63rd & Prospect was shifted ($500,000 from development services fund, $4.5 million from general fund) to maintain reserves above the three-month threshold. The HR portion was moved to amendment B. Amendment E passed 10-3. The final budget ordinance passed 13-0. - 250171 – Water Rate Increase: Set a 6% overall revenue increase for water service. Passed 12-1. - 250172 – Sewer Rate Increase: Set a 6% overall revenue increase for sewer service. Passed 12-1. - 250011 – Popeyes Drive-Thru: Proposed major amendment to allow a drive-thru restaurant at 9806 North Oak Trafficway. Opposed by neighbors and the first district councilmember. Failed 0-13. - 250204 – Residential Development: Major amendment for 251 units on Northwest 108th Street. Passed 13-0. - 250206 – Rezoning for May Technology: Rezoned 1 acre to allow expansion with landscape buffer. Passed 13-0. - 250208 – Retail/Office Development: Development plan for 13.18 acres on North Madison Avenue. Passed 13-0. - 250210 – Mixed-Use Rezoning: Rezoned 25.22 acres for residential, office, and manufacturing. Passed 13-0. - 250222 – Columbus Park Townhomes: Major amendment for 65 residential units in three phases. Passed 13-0. - Health Grants: Ordinances 250223, 250224, 250229, and 250231 accepted federal and state grants totaling over $3.3 million for HIV/AIDS and STD prevention and surveillance. All passed with 12 or 13 ayes. Key Outcomes - Budget Adoption: The fiscal year 2025-2026 budget was adopted with amendments totaling $38.8 million in changes. The general fund reserve remained above the three-month target after adjustments. - Ratification of City Manager Suspension: The council ratified Mayor Lucas’s suspension of City Manager Brian Platt effective March 6, 2025, by a vote of 13-0. - Acting City Manager: The council ratified the designation of Camiko Gilmore as acting city manager with a monthly salary of $16,701.01, also by a 13-0 vote. - Late Docket Items: A resolution (250249) to amend the Heart of the City Area Plan for the Washington Wheatley neighborhood was referred to committee. An ordinance (250250) to finance the city’s contribution to the Northland Workforce Development Center using $29.5 million in bond proceeds was introduced and referred to the Finance, Governance, and Public Safety Committee.

The meeting was a business session of the city council (or board) on March 20, 2025. The main actions were approval of the minutes from the previous business session held on March 6, 2025, and a motion to enter closed session for legal and personnel matters. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the business session of March 6, 2025, were approved by a voice vote with all in favor, no opposition. Discussion Items - Personnel Matter and Closed Session: The next item on the agenda was a personnel matter, which led to a motion to go into closed session. The motion cited Missouri Revised Statutes 610.021, subsections 1 (legal matters, litigation, and privileged communication), 3, and 13 (personnel matters). No discussion was held on the motion. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes from the March 6, 2025, business session were approved unanimously. - Closed Session Motion Passed: A roll call vote was taken on the motion to enter closed session. All members present voted in favor: Patterson, Robinson, (additional members: Duncan, O'Neill, Willits, French, Rogers, Lucas) – all ayes. The motion passed, and the meeting stood in closed session.