Joplin City Council Regular Meeting - November 2, 2026

The Joplin City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, November 2, 2026. Council members present were Koppel, Cortez, Ditar, Jackson, Moran, and Price. Mayor O'Brien and Council member Bard were absent. The meeting included a presentation on the Pennsylvania Avenue Viaduct, reports on city infrastructure, and significant public commentary on a potential 287(g) ICE agreement, the city's parking garage rehabilitation project, and recent council controversies.

Public Comments & Testimony

• 287(g) ICE Agreement: Multiple speakers (Thomas J., Skyler Carr, Robert Jones, Brennan Bauer, Leslie Mendoza) spoke in strong opposition to entering a 287(g) agreement. Arguments included constitutional violations, damage to community trust in law enforcement, negative economic impacts, and the human cost. Brennan Bauer criticized the council's hostile culture and warned of recall efforts. The presiding officer and Council member Ditar repeatedly clarified that the 287(g) issue is not pending before the council.
• Parking Garage Rehabilitation: Linda and Steve Williams (Club 609) requested a written construction plan, concrete parking solutions (including temporary diagonal parking), and formal council oversight to minimize disruption to their business.
• Council Accountability and Resignation: Ashley Gould stated she initiated the public records request regarding former council member Brian Cowells' tax lien, asserting it was solely about ensuring eligibility for office. Yvette Shackles (Joplin Area DSA) criticized Council member Jackson for his online associations and comments, requesting a less hostile relationship between the council and the public.

Discussion Items

• Pennsylvania Avenue Viaduct: Dan Johnson (Public Works) detailed plans to remove the dangerous bridge in spring 2027. An at-grade road option is not funded until 2031. Council questions addressed flooding risks, structural safety, and property owner concerns.
• News from the Public Information Office: Cassie Fawcett reported the final phase of Main Street streetscaping begins November 3rd. The city received a $500,000 National Park Service grant for a trail connecting Landrith Park to the Momentum Bike Park. Ewart Park will celebrate its grand reopening on December 17th, featuring an ADA-designed playground and an ice skating/splash park.
• Operations and Budget:
  • Snow Removal (CB 2026-161): Approved a contract for supplemental CDL drivers to cover a six-operator shortfall in the snowplow fleet. Passed 6-0.
  • Demolition (CB 2026-358): Approved the demolition of a structure at 1623 W 1st St. Passed 6-0.
  • Health Insurance (CB 2026-530): Approved a 10% increase in stop-loss coverage premiums, passing the cost to the city budget. Passed 6-0.
  • Wastewater Treatment (CB 2026-159, CB 2026-160): Approved first readings for engineering services for 2027 improvements and planning for a state revolving fund loan.
  • Willow Branch Culvert (CB 2026-158): Approved a $1,595,467.29 contract with Signature Dirt Works for the Willow Branch Culvert replacement. Passed 5-1.
  • Prospect Village TIF (CB 2025-508): Approved the activation of Redevelopment Project 6 including a dentist's office. Passed 6-0.
• Resignation Acceptance: The council formally voted to accept the resignation of former council member Brian Cowells, effective October 28, 2026. Passed 6-0.

Key Outcomes

• Status of 287(g): Council member Ditar and the presiding officer emphatically clarified that the 287(g) agreement is not being discussed, researched, or considered by the council, declaring the issue fully resolved and not on the agenda.
• Parking Garage Directive: The city manager was directed to develop a detailed construction and access plan with affected downtown businesses, prioritizing phased work and continuous communication. Council members also discussed the feasibility of extended construction hours.
• Consent Agenda: The finalized consent agenda was approved unanimously.