Public Meetings - Olathe, Kansas

The Olathe City Council met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, beginning with an executive session at 5:45 PM, then reconvening for a regular session at 7:00 PM. The meeting featured presentations, public hearings, new business items including a rezoning and World Cup alcohol hour expansion, and a planning session covering industrial revenue bonds and the 2026 state legislative session review. Consent Calendar - Approved 14 routine items (A through N) including: minutes from May 5, 2026; new and renewal licenses; expense report for City Auditor Caitlin Clark’s conference attendance; resolutions fixing public hearing dates for structures at 617 N. Water Street and 414 E. Cedar Street (July 21, 2026); a combined subdivision participation and release regarding the National Prescription Opiate Litigation; acceptance of land dedications for final plats (Stellar Apartments and I-35 Logistics Park Eighth Plat); additional funds for Sunset and Ridgeview Intersection Improvements; agreements for basketball court construction at Black Bob Park and for traffic signal supplies (two contracts); and a contract for digester cleanings at the Harold Street Wastewater Treatment Plant. - Vote: Motion carried 7–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Fench (Olathe resident): Expressed concerns about the Olathe Gateway Landing project (apartment development near Boulder Hills Enclave at 175th & Black Bob). He stated a 2007 plan approved 264 owner-occupied townhomes/condos, but now 318 units in three-story apartment buildings are proposed, calling it a "fundamental change" that erodes trust between citizens and government. He noted the developer already has RP3 zoning, allowing the increase without new approval. - Cameron Smith (Olathe resident): Requested changes to Title VI, Chapter 6.09.040 of the Olathe Municipal Code regarding noxious weeds. He asked to remove poison sumac (never found in Kansas) and poison ivy (essential for bird ecosystems) from the problem plant list. He also asked to add bush honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) and winter creeper (Euonymus fortunei), both listed as noxious/invasive by Johnson County and neighboring states. - Jo Spear (Olathe resident): Spoke against the Gateway Landing project. She argued that rental properties don’t fit the character of Boulder Hills (home values $500,000–$850,000+), raised concerns about safety, traffic, stormwater, privacy (three-story apartments overlooking yards), and school overcrowding. She asked the council to represent current constituents and preserve neighborhood character. Discussion Items - Forest View Townhomes (RZ26-0004 / Ordinance 26-21): Senior Planner Emily Carrillo presented the proposal to rezone 14.6 acres from CTY RUR to R-3 (low-density multifamily) for 72 townhome units in 14 buildings (phase one: 48 units; phase two: 24 units) southwest of K-7 Highway & W. 119th Street. Key features: one waiver (reducing corner side-yard setback from 20 to 15 feet for three buildings), 60-foot buffer (exceeds 20-foot requirement), 28% tree canopy preservation (exceeds 20% minimum), and 65% open space. Traffic impact study completed; access via 119th Street at Mesquite with right-turn lane. No left-turn lane warranted per traffic counts. Parking meets code (1.5 stalls/unit), but Mayor Bacon and Councilmember Schoonover expressed concerns about on-street parking and guest parking. Developer Judd Claussen (Phelps Engineering) noted fire sprinklers mitigate single-access issues and said they could add parking spaces. Councilmember Vakas called it a "well designed" addition to West Olathe. Vote on Ordinance 26-21: 7–0. - Alcan/120th Street Right-of-Way Amendment (Ordinance 26-22): Approved unanimously (7–0) to update the 2014 vacation ordinance with a full legal description. - World Cup Alcohol Hours (Ordinance 26-23): Approved unanimously (7–0) to amend Title 7 of the Olathe Municipal Code, allowing expanded hours for alcoholic beverage sales during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, enabled by a new state law. - 103rd Street Lift Station Survey (Resolution 26-1043): Approved unanimously (7–0) to authorize a survey for land needed for the 103rd Street Lift Station Replacement Project (PN 1-C-011-17). - 103rd Street Lift Station Land Acquisition (Ordinance 26-24): Approved unanimously (7–0) to authorize acquisition of land for the same project. - Eminent Domain – McDonald’s (Ordinance 26-25): Approved unanimously (7–0) to pay an eminent domain award and appraiser’s fees for the Santa Fe, Ridgeview to Mur Len Improvements Project (PN 3-C-025-18) regarding McDonald’s USA, LLC. - Eminent Domain – Brogden Properties (Ordinance 26-26): Approved unanimously (7–0) for the same project regarding Brogden Properties, LLC. City Attorney Ron Shaver noted a few agreements remain under negotiation. Planning Session – Industrial Revenue Bonds Reports - Report 1 (167 Olathe 3, LLC / Faith Technologies): Accepted – 76,800 sq ft office building at 167th & Lone Elm Road. - Report 2 (OFI Manager, LLC): Accepted – Two industrial buildings (260,870 sq ft and 80,000 sq ft) on 60 acres east of Monticello Dr & Erickson Road. Councilmember Schoonover requested cost-benefit analysis at 50% IRB level (vs. proposed 80%). Councilmember Vakas asked for sustainable design information. - Report 3 (Mitchell Properties II, LLC): Accepted – 33,000 sq ft industrial facility at 15680 S. Keeler Terrace. - Report 4 (Scannell 798, LLC): Accepted – 646,380 sq ft industrial facility on 32.47 acres at NWQ of 159th & Clare Road. Schoonover expressed same concerns as Report 2. - Report 5 (Scannell Properties 476, LLC): Accepted – Two buildings totaling 683,800 sq ft on 43.54 acres at NWQ of Clare Road & W 159th Street. Schoonover expressed same concerns. - Mayor Bacon noted 80% for 10 years is less than 50% for 20 years (as offered by Lenexa), and many warehouses become high-dollar manufacturing. Planning Session – 2026 State Legislative Session Review - Natalie Bright (Bright and Carpenter Consulting) presented highlights: 1,300+ bills introduced, 136 signed, 12–14 veto overrides. New Local Government Caucus formed (41 members). Wins: property tax reform failed (veto not overridden); sales tax distribution formula study; fire sprinkler authority for units ≤4; Star Bonds for Chiefs’ sports authority. Losses: bills eroding local control (public nuisance, prohibiting rent control, independent police review boards) – vetoed but overridden. 2026 elections include governor (open seat), U.S. Senate, all 4 U.S. House races, statewide offices, and 2 constitutional amendments (judicial selection in primary, citizenship voting in general). Priority offseason items: property tax reform, sports authority monitoring, sales tax distribution, right-of-way issues, and election tracking. - Councilmember Essex and Creighton thanked Bright and noted the importance of proactive council feedback. Mayor Bacon thanked the federal delegation meetings in Washington, D.C. Key Outcomes - Forest View Townhomes (Ordinance 26-21): Approved 7–0. - Alcan/120th Street Amendment (Ordinance 26-22): Approved 7–0. - World Cup Alcohol Hours (Ordinance 26-23): Approved 7–0. - 103rd Street Lift Station Survey (Resolution 26-1043): Approved 7–0. - 103rd Street Lift Station Land Acquisition (Ordinance 26-24): Approved 7–0. - Eminent Domain – McDonald’s (Ordinance 26-25): Approved 7–0. - Eminent Domain – Brogden Properties (Ordinance 26-26): Approved 7–0. - Consent Agenda: Approved 7–0. - IRB Reports: All five accepted; staff to provide additional cost-benefit and sustainability data for Reports 2, 4, and 5. - Legislative Review: Council to provide proactive feedback for 2027 session; next year’s agenda development to begin in summer/fall. - Additional Items: Parking garage construction to begin after June 16 (Zach Hardy). Iowa Street repaving to start mid-June, completed by end of June (Nate Baldwin).

The Olathe Planning Commission convened on May 11, 2026, with six of nine commissioners present (Commissioners Breen and Lynn absent; Commissioner Brigida did not attend). The meeting covered a consent agenda, three public hearings, and a unanimous vote on all items. The Chair emphasized the commission's limited statutory role—reviewing site plans against the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)—and directed public concerns to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Consent Agenda (5 items): Approved unanimously (6‑0) with no items pulled. Included Item B, the preliminary site development plan for the Gateway project (multifamily apartments on property rezoned RP3 in 2007, allowed by right). Chair noted the commission only checks UDO compliance and cannot change the project's outcome. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public signed up to speak during any of the three public hearings. The commission closed each hearing without public input. Discussion Items 1. Final Plat with Vacation of Easements – I-35 Logistics Part 8th Plat (FP 26‑0007) – Staff presented no formal testimony; plat approved unanimously (6‑0). 2. Special Use Permit – Daniels Health (SU 26‑0001) – Senior Planner Emily Carillo presented the request for a medical waste treatment facility at 15670 S Keeler Street. Operations will occur entirely within the existing building. The applicant, Christina Prismanis, answered commissioners' questions on hazardous waste handling (stored unopened, transferred off‑site for incineration), infectious waste sterilization (autoclave at 250°F, tested weekly), facility security (cameras, badge entry, separate hazardous storage rooms), and regulatory audits (annual state KDHE inspections, federal DOT monitoring). Staff recommended approval with a five‑year permit term. Chair expressed concern about landscaping maintenance and urged City Council follow‑up. Approved unanimously (6‑0). 3. Amendments to Ridgeview Road Overlay District (UDO 26‑0001) – Senior Planner Jessica Schuler and Planning Manager Kim Hollingsworth presented amendments to align the overlay (Chapter 18.20.60) with the Elevate Olathe Comprehensive Plan. The change removes the overlay north of College Boulevard, allowing the last agriculturally‑zoned parcel (NW corner of College & Ridgeview) to be guided by the new sub‑area recommendations for mixed‑use/campus development. The overlay remains south of College Boulevard. Commissioners noted this update precedes potential Chiefs facility development. Approved unanimously (6‑0). Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and public hearing cases passed 6‑0. - Special Use Permit (Daniels Health) – Approved for five years, subject to staff stipulations; case continues to City Council on June 2. - UDO Amendments – Approved as proposed; forwarded to City Council on June 2. - Next Meeting: June 8, 2026 (no meeting May 25 due to Memorial Day).

The Olathe City Council convened on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The meeting featured a proclamation for Public Service Recognition Week, recognition of the 19th Civic Academy class, public hearings on industrial revenue bonds, three major industrial rezonings, and a planning session on the 2026 Federal Legislative Program. Mayor John Bacon presided, and all seven council members were present: Bacon, Schoonover, Felter, Vakas, Essex, Creighton, and Deneault. The meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM. Special Business - Proclamation for Public Service Recognition Week (May 3–9, 2026): Mayor Bacon read and presented the proclamation to Kate Messer, Financial Strategy Manager and 2025 recipient of the Leadership Philosophy Award. Messer thanked the council on behalf of staff, emphasizing the purpose of public service. - Recognition of 2026 Olathe Civic Academy Graduates: Volunteer Coordinator Mimi O’Hare introduced the 36 graduates—the largest class in the program’s history. Graduates Kate Guimbellot and Mary Verett delivered remarks celebrating the city’s transparency, fiscal responsibility (e.g., Olathe’s natural gas main saving $500,000 per year), cross-functional teamwork, and a 40% recycling diversion rate (vs. 30% national average). They noted Olathe was named the healthiest employer by the Kansas City Business Journal from 2015 to 2025. Public Hearings - Resolution No. 26-1037 (Aspen Industrial Land Fund I, LLC – Phase One): The council held a public hearing for a 215,575 sq ft industrial facility on 12.87 acres near the northwest corner of 171st Street and Lone Elm Road. No public comments were made. The public hearing was closed (7-0) and the resolution was approved 6-1 (Schoonover dissenting). - Resolution No. 26-1038 (Aspen Industrial Land Fund I, LLC – Master Resolution): Considered for approximately 1,340,615 sq ft of warehouse and industrial facilities on 80.45 acres at the same location. Approved 6-1 (Schoonover dissenting). Consent Calendar - Items A through G and I through L were approved unanimously as routine. Item H was pulled by Councilmember Schoonover for separate discussion. - Item H – Professional Services Agreement with HNTB Corporation for K-10 at Lone Elm 24-Inch Watermain Relocation (PN 5-C-014-26): City Engineer Nate Baldwin explained that KDOT is designing a full interchange; the city’s 24-inch water main conflicts with the planned bridge. Relocation design costs will be reimbursed by KDOT, though construction is contingent on Lenexa securing matching funds. Approved 7-0. New Business (Rezonings & Site Development Plans) All three items were approved 7-0. - Ordinance No. 26-17 (RZ26-0001) – Hedge Industrial Park East: Rezoning 80.47 acres from CTY-RUR to M-2 for five speculative warehouse buildings (total 1,340+ sq ft), southwest of 167th & Lone Elm. A traffic study was completed; developer will construct 171st Street. Councilmember Felter raised concerns about infrastructure and public safety funding amid rapid growth. - Ordinance No. 26-18 (RZ26-0002) – DRG Olathe: Rezoning 37.63 acres from CTY RUR to M-2 for two industrial buildings (250,000 and 290,000 sq ft), southwest of 167th & Lone Elm. Shared access with adjacent properties to the south required. - Ordinance No. 26-19 (RZ26-0003) – Lone Elm Commerce Center: Rezoning 60.5 acres from CTY PRN2 to M-2 for three industrial buildings (355,000 sq ft total). The applicant requested a waiver to reduce glass percentage on facades (to 6% and 11% vs. 15% required), which staff supported for design continuity. The site preserves over 40% open space and 80% of existing trees. General Issues and Concerns of Citizens - Kate Guimbellot (11236 S. Race Street): Expressed strong praise for city leadership, citing the positive culture observed during the Civic Academy. She noted that leaders such as Mary Jaeger, Chief Bo Tad, and Liz Rubek “lead without ego” and that the city’s culture is a deliberate choice. - James Van Booven (18342 W. 155th Street): Opposed the proposed drone ordinance, arguing it would harm responsible commercial users (Part 107 pilots) and not deter illegal behavior. He highlighted FAA preemption and recommended banning reckless acts instead of flights. He noted an FAA rulemaking (published that day) that may establish local critical infrastructure restrictions. Planning Session Reports & Discussion - Report on DRG Holdings LLC – Industrial Revenue Bonds: Approved for a 251,160 sq ft warehouse (17.55 acres) and a master resolution for 558,960 sq ft total. Reports accepted without objection. - Report on Title 7 Amendments for 2026 FIFA World Cup: Mayor Bacon queried about alcohol license regulations and downtown common consumption areas; City Manager Sherman said staff would investigate. - Discussion of 2026 Federal Legislative Program: Deputy City Attorney Amanda Stanley presented a focused agenda prioritizing three projects: downtown post office redevelopment (federal appropriation request), real-time information program for police, and infrastructure (I-35, Santa Fe, K-10, US 169, 167th Street). Council feedback included: Councilmember Vakas requested adding a fixed-rail transit vision for Johnson County; Councilmember Schoonover asked about prescription drug costs (state-level) and the impact of tariffs; Councilmember Felter requested a summary of federal dollars received; Councilmember Deneault asked for stronger language on housing. Key Outcomes - Appropriations Approved: Resolution No. 26-1037 (6-1), Resolution No. 26-1038 (6-1) - Consent Agenda Approved: All items except H (H approved 7-0) - Rezonings Approved: Ordinance No. 26-17 (7-0), Ordinance No. 26-18 (7-0), Ordinance No. 26-19 (7-0) - Item D (Drone ordinance) Removed: Tabled for further review - Reports Accepted: All four planning session reports accepted without formal vote - Next Steps: Federal delegation meetings scheduled for the following week; staff to provide council with specifics on federal funding received.

The Olathe Planning Commission met on April 27, 2026, with eight of nine commissioners present (Commissioner Breen absent). The meeting included a consent agenda, two public hearings, and a vote on a rezoning and preliminary site development plan. Traffic and tree preservation were recurring themes. Consent Calendar - Eight items were approved on the consent agenda. Commissioner Lynn recused from item PR 26-0006. The vote was recorded as 8–0 on that item (with one recusal) and 9–0 on the remaining items, though only eight commissioners were present—a discrepancy noted in the minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - First Public Hearing – Final Plat & Easement Vacation for Stellar Apartments: No members of the public signed up to speak. The public hearing was closed and the plat approved unanimously (8–0). - Second Public Hearing – Rezoning & Preliminary Site Development Plan for Forest View Townhomes (RZ 26-004): - Patrick Martin (23728 W 118th St, Timberstone Ridge) expressed concern that 447 additional daily trips would worsen left-turn delays from Mesquite onto 119th, especially with the already-approved 772-unit High Meadows development. He also relayed a realtor’s worry that single-car garages could lower property values and maintenance standards. - Patricia Martin (23728 W 118th Terrace, Timberstone Ridge HOA president) thanked the developer for addressing neighborhood meeting concerns but emphasized traffic safety issues on 119th (near-misses at crosswalks) and urged more thoughtful planning. - Pam Rosen (12172 S Solomon Rd, Forest View) stated that Forest View residents were not notified of the neighborhood meeting. She questioned whether the new townhomes would be part of the Forest View community and have access to its amenities, and raised concerns about traffic on Clare and 119th. - Terry Rosen (12172 S Solomon Rd) focused on property values and traffic. He noted that westbound left turns into the development would be difficult without a left-turn lane, and that high school traffic already congests the area. - Joshua Jones (11841 S Kenton St, Timberstone Ridge) applauded the developer’s tree preservation efforts but urged more, including potential reduction in unit density. He asked that future phases and road connections be carefully planned to preserve the natural character of the corridor. Discussion Items - Stellar Apartments Final Plat & Easement Vacation (FP 26-0004): Staff presented no formal presentation; the item was a routine easement vacation. The commission approved the plat unanimously (8–0). - Forest View Townhomes Rezoning & Preliminary Site Development Plan (RZ 26-004): - Senior Planner Emily Carillo presented the proposal: 72 units in 14 townhome buildings on 14.5 acres, with a density of about 5 units per acre (well below the R3 maximum of 15). The site is at the southwest corner of K-7 and 119th Street. - Key features: 28% tree canopy preservation (exceeds 20% requirement), 25-foot landscape buffer along 119th, a 10-foot sidewalk, and an eastbound right-turn lane. A waiver to reduce the corner side-yard setback from 20 to 15 feet for three buildings was requested. - Staff recommended approval with stipulations, including the setback waiver and continued work with residents on tree preservation. - Commissioner questions and applicant responses: - Traffic: Applicant Judd Clausen (Phelps Engineering) stated the traffic study found 447 daily trips, with 23 trips out during the AM peak and 23 trips in during the PM peak. No left-turn lane was warranted per the study, but future phases will require new studies. - Tree Preservation: The applicant adjusted the plan to save more trees along 119th after neighborhood feedback. - On-Street Parking: Public streets will allow on-street parking where available, but the city can restrict parking if safety issues arise. - Future Connections: Chief Development Officer Chet Belcher noted that High Meadows will have a connection to College Boulevard via Dunraven, and that improvements to 119th and Clare are on a CIP ranking list but not in the five-year plan. - Chair Janner added a comment before voting, urging the City Council to prioritize traffic improvements on 119th and Clare as the area develops. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (8–0 on item PR 26-0006, 9–0 on others; discrepancy noted). - Stellar Apartments Final Plat & Easement Vacation (FP 26-0004): Approved unanimously (8–0). - Forest View Townhomes Rezoning & Preliminary Site Development Plan (RZ 26-004): Motion to approve as stipulated by staff carried 8–0. The item will be considered by the City Council on May 19, 2026.

This was a lengthy meeting of the Olathe City Council, starting at 6:45 PM with an executive session and reconvening publicly at 7:00 PM. The main items of business included the adoption of a new comprehensive plan ("Elevate Olathe"), recognition of Arbor Week and graduating Teen Council seniors, a presentation from Johnson County commissioners, and several ordinance readings. The meeting concluded with a second executive session and adjournment at 9:21 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the April 7, 2026 meeting. - Approved new licenses as recommended by the City Clerk. - Accepted two final plats (Heather Ridge Estates, 3rd Plat, 24 lots on 8.78 acres; and Her Shepherd's Estate, 1 lot on 3.4 acres), each with associated street and easement dedications. - Approved Resolution No. 26-1034 consenting to enlargement of the Consolidated Main Sewer District for Woodland Hills, 8th Plat. - Approved Resolution No. 26-1035 and No. 26-1036, authorizing Water & Sewer and Stormwater improvements and intent to issue revenue bonds. - Awarded the Arrowhead Truss Mains Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation contract to SAK Construction, LLC. - Approved various other contracts, renewals, and purchases (including a Telemax EVO HYBRID V2 UGV for the Fire Department and a citywide printer solution). Public Comments & Testimony - No general citizen comments were heard. Discussion Items - Proclamation (Arbor Week): Mayor Bacon read a proclamation recognizing April 19–25, 2026 as Arbor Week. City Arborist Mike Katzer accepted, noting Olathe's 43rd year as a Tree City USA and 33rd Growth Award. He highlighted a planting event at Lakeside Hills Disc Golf Course with 59 students from Olathe West's Green Tech Academy, planting 30 trees. - Recognition of Teen Council Seniors: Assistant to the Mayor Liz Ruback introduced and honored four graduating seniors (Hope Kelly, Riley Forcey—absent, Ana, and Ethan Smith) who completed a major inclusivity project and provided youth input on city processes, including e-bike rules. Each senior spoke briefly about their experience. - Adoption of Elevate Olathe Comprehensive Plan (Ordinance No. 26-14): Planning and Development Manager Kim Hollingsworth presented a detailed overview of the two-year planning process, which involved over 4,000 participants, a 14-member steering committee, 65 city staff volunteers, and translated materials. Key themes from public feedback included diversified housing, an active downtown, memory-making destinations, and multimodal transportation. The plan includes a new development matrix and annual reviews. Councilmembers Felter, Creighton, and Vakas praised the document. Mayor Bacon asked about handling deviations from the plan and the review cadence. The ordinance passed 7–0. - Recognition of Elevate Olathe Steering Committee: The mayor and staff thanked the 14 committee members, presenting them with certificates. - Johnson County Commissioners' Annual Report: Commissioners Michael Ashcraft (5th District) and Shirley Allenbrand (6th District) provided an update covering: - New health services building in Olathe (opening 2027) co-locating mental health, aging, and public health. - New MED-ACT Station 1156 in Olathe with solar panels providing 70% of its electricity. - Road projects through the CARS program (Quiver, Black Bob, and work on 159th–167th). - Downtown parking garage partnership ($22.5M total, $11M county commitment for 379 spaces). - CarNAP planning process and K-10 corridor improvements (widening to six lanes, new Lone Elm interchange; construction target 2030). - New Century Airport updates: new air traffic control tower (2027, $15M), new runway 18/36 (2027, $30M, 90% federal), and a Vision 2.0 roundtable on airport self-sustainability. - Housing ad hoc committee (Chair Kelly). - FIFA World Cup transit: free bus service from KC Airport to Lenexa City Center/Overland Park Convention Center (25-min headways); paid circulator routes including Olathe stops. Concerns about number of Olathe stops and pricing were raised by councilmembers. Commissioners noted data collection efforts. - New Business – Traffic Ordinance Amendments: - Ordinance No. 26-15: Amending Main Trafficways and connections. Passed 7–0. - Ordinance No. 26-16: Amending Title 10 (Traffic Ordinance) regarding e-bikes and e-scooters. Passed 7–0. Councilmember Schoonover emphasized public education before enforcement. - Planning Session – Drone Ordinance Report: Deputy Police Chief Dave Schroeder presented a proposed ordinance limiting drone takeoff/landing near special events (over 100 people) and city infrastructure. Councilmembers discussed: - Impact on commercial drone deliveries (e.g., Amazon) – Deputy Chief clarified the city controls land, not airspace. - State-level regulations – Councilmember Felter noted Kansas has few drone laws and supports local action as a stopgap. - First responder drone program – Deputy Chief described use of three schools as launch sites covering 80% of the city, emphasizing that cameras are focused only on dispatch locations, not playgrounds. He cited successful responses, including locating a missing three-year-old. - Insurance/roof inspections – Mayor Bacon confirmed the ordinance would not affect such uses. Key Outcomes - Ordinance No. 26-14 (Elevate Olathe Comprehensive Plan) adopted by a vote of 7–0. The plan will guide development for the next 15 years, with annual reviews and a potential five-year checkpoint. - Ordinance No. 26-15 (Main Trafficways) adopted by a vote of 7–0. - Ordinance No. 26-16 (E-bike/E-scooter safety) adopted by a vote of 7–0. Public education efforts will precede enforcement. - Consent Agenda approved by a vote of 7–0, including all 14 routine items (plat approvals, bond resolutions, contracts, and purchases). - Two executive sessions were held: the first (10 minutes) regarding municipal judges, and the second (20 minutes plus 4-minute extension) for City Auditor evaluation. Staff were directed to proceed with strategies discussed. - Next steps: The drone ordinance will return for a future vote. Staff will research potential restrictions on vape shops near schools. City Manager Sherman will provide information on establishing a school zone at Heritage Christian Academy. The city will host a Summer Kickoff at Lake Olathe on May 29th.

The Olathe Planning Commission convened at 1:00 PM on April 13, 2026, with six of nine commissioners present. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and an acknowledgement that the Gateway Landing Apartment Project (PR 26-0001) had been rescheduled to the April 27 agenda. All votes during the meeting were unanimous (6-0). Consent Calendar - Five agenda items were approved by consent without discussion or objection (motion passed 6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak at any of the three public hearings held this evening. Discussion Items - Continuance Requests: Two items, FP 26-0004 and FP 26-0002, were continued to future planning commission meetings. Motions to continue passed 6-0 each. - Hedge Industrial Park (RZ 26-0001): A request to rezone approximately 8 acres southwest of 167th Street and Lone Elm Road from county rural to M2 General Industrial and approve a preliminary site development plan. The project includes five speculative warehouse/distribution facilities totaling over 1,340,000 square feet, developed in phases. Staff recommended approval with use restrictions and a stipulation regarding shared access. The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony. Motion to approve subject to staff stipulations passed 6-0. - DRG Olathe (RZ 26-0002): A request to rezone approximately 37 acres adjacent to the Hedge site to M2 and approve a preliminary site development plan for two speculative warehouse buildings (approximately 250,000 sq ft and 290,000 sq ft). Similar staff recommendations and restrictions applied, including shared access. Public hearing opened and closed with no testimony. Motion to approve as stipulated passed 6-0. - Lone Elm Commerce Center 6th Platte (RZ 26-0003): A request to rezone approximately 60 acres northwest of 167th and Lone Elm to M2 and approve a preliminary site development plan for three speculative industrial buildings. Building one is approximately 260,000 square feet. The applicant requested a waiver to the minimum 15% glass requirement on two facades (proposing 6% and 11%), supported by staff to match existing adjacent buildings. Use restrictions, timing of Ericsson Street extension, and landscaping stipulations were included. Outdoor storage was discussed. Public hearing opened and closed with no testimony. Motion to approve subject to staff stipulations passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - All three rezoning and preliminary site development plan requests were approved unanimously (6-0) with staff stipulations. - Two continuance motions passed unanimously. - Gateway Landing Apartment Project rescheduled to April 27, 2026 meeting. - The meeting adjourned without further announcements.

The Olathe City Council met on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 6:30 PM, beginning with an executive session to discuss personnel matters related to municipal judges. The regular meeting reconvened at 7:00 PM and included special business, public hearings, a consent agenda, new business, reports on traffic ordinance amendments and main trafficways, and an annual report from the Olathe Chamber of Commerce. The meeting adjourned at 8:39 PM. Councilmember Schoonover voted "no" on several resolutions; all other votes were unanimous or 6-1. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0): March 17, 2026 meeting minutes; new and renewal licenses; travel authorizations for Mayor, Councilmembers, and City Manager to Washington, D.C.; Resolution 26-1032 amending City Council Policy CC-3 (speaker time allocations); final plat for 175th Lone Elm Center; project requests for 2027-2031 County Assistance Road System (CARS) Program; bids and contracts for 2026 Neighborhood Street Improvements and Quivira Road Improvements; renewal of traffic signal supplies contract; additional funds for janitorial services; 2025 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant; purchase of Dell servers. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the General Issues and Concerns of Citizens portion. - For public hearings on Resolutions 26-1029 and 26-1031 (Blue Springs Safety Storage and Aspen Funds building amendments), no public comments were received, and each public hearing was closed unanimously. Discussion Items - Traffic Ordinance Amendments (Title 10): Assistant City Attorney Bob Gallimore presented proposed changes to regulations for e-bikes and micromobility devices. Key changes include adopting a three-class e-bike system, a 15-mph sidewalk speed limit, allowing e-scooters on roads with speed limits up to 30 mph, and requiring helmets for e-scooter riders under 18. Councilmembers Schoonover, Felter, Essex, and Creighton expressed support for adding a helmet requirement for e-bikes as well. Police Chief Mike Butaud noted enforcement would prioritize education, with fines ranging from $40 to $120. The ordinance is tentatively scheduled for a vote at the next meeting. - Main Trafficways Amendments (Sections 10.10.010/020): City Engineer Nate Baldwin briefed the council on updates to the Johnson County CARNP Plan, particularly the re-designation of Edgerton Road to a four-lane divided roadway to improve north-south connectivity west of K-7. Mayor Bacon requested a deeper report for future CIP and budget discussions. - Chamber of Commerce Annual Report: CEO Tim McKee, along with Kelly Peetoom (CVB) and Jason Leib (Business Development), presented highlights: the Chamber is a five-star chamber with 1,200 members and represents 100,000 employees. The CVB reported $317 million in visitor spending in 2023, supporting 4,100 jobs and generating $35 million in state and local taxes. Economic development efforts include retention of companies like Centaur Animal Health and Faith Technologies, and recruitment of firms like Renews and Indra. The Chamber is also managing storefront improvement grants in downtown and launching a downtown Olathe Business Council. Mayor Bacon urged continued pursuit of a wholesale club (Costco or Sam's Club) for Olathe. Key Outcomes - Executive Session (7-0): Council recessed into a 25-minute executive session for personnel matters regarding municipal judges. Upon reconvening, they voted 7-0 to authorize staff to proceed with strategies discussed. - Resolution 26-1027 (Mahaffie Board Appointments): Approved 7-0, reappointing Marge Vogt and Kevin Gilmore, and appointing Councilmember Schoonover as council representative. - Resolution 26-1028 (Blue Springs Safety Storage – Master): Approved 6-1, with Councilmember Schoonover voting no. - Resolution 26-1029 (Blue Springs Safety Storage – Building 1): Approved 6-1, with Councilmember Schoonover voting no. - Resolution 26-1030 (Aspen Funds – Master): Approved 6-1, with Councilmember Schoonover voting no. - Resolution 26-1031 (Aspen Funds – Building 1): Approved 6-1, with Councilmember Schoonover voting no. - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0. - Ordinance 26-13 (Special Assessments on Hedge Lane improvements): Approved 7-0. The bonds will be issued in summer 2026. - Direction to Staff: Council asked staff to: - Include e-bike helmet requirement under age 18 in the traffic ordinance (pending final vote). - Report on code enforcement trends affecting citizen satisfaction. - Explore formation of a housing task force with participation from the Olathe Housing Commissioners to address housing attainability. - Prepare a report on the Johnson County CARNP Plan’s impact on Olathe. - City Manager Announcements: A new partnership with Kansas State University will bring a mobile surgery center to the Olathe animal shelter. The farmers market begins April 25 at Black Bob and May 2 downtown; attendees are encouraged to donate non-perishable food for the Mayor’s community food drive.

The Olathe Planning Commission met on March 23, 2026, to consider a resolution to approve the city’s new comprehensive plan, "Elevate Olatha." The plan, a 15-year guiding document, replaces the 2010 Plan Olatha and was developed through extensive community engagement over two years. The commission heard presentations from staff, praised the plan's breadth and clarity, and voted unanimously to recommend approval to the city council. The public hearing was closed with no oral comments. Consent Calendar - Approved three consent agenda items unanimously (9-0). - Granted a continuance for RZ 26-0001 to a future meeting (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak at the public hearing. Chair Janner noted that there had been "plenty of opportunity for public input" throughout the plan’s development. Discussion Items - Elevate Olatha Comprehensive Plan (CPA 24-0001): Planning and Development Manager Kim Hollingsworth and Planner II Taylor Vandevelde presented the plan. Key highlights included: - Over 4,000 participants engaged through online surveys, in-person workshops, open houses, and outreach to Spanish-speaking and deaf communities. - The plan is structured around four guiding themes: livability, mobility, resiliency, and identity. - A new future land use map with 13 categories includes a "vertical mixed-use" overlay to encourage mixed-use development. - Key community priorities included greater variety of housing types, more retail and restaurants, revitalized downtown, and improved bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. - An implementation matrix—new since the last joint meeting—outlines specific actions, timelines (short-term: 0–5 years), and responsible parties. - Commissioner Comments: Multiple commissioners praised the process and the document. Commissioner Chapman called it "impressive" and highlighted its "clarity of direction." Commissioner Toronis emphasized the city’s proactive community engagement. Commissioner Breen, who served on the steering committee, thanked staff and stakeholders. Key Outcomes - The commission closed the public hearing unanimously. - The commission voted 9-0 to approve Resolution 26-0001, recommending Elevate Olatha to the city council. - Next steps include a dedicated web page for the future land use map, updates to area plans and overlay districts, alignment of capital improvement projects, and a future UDO update. The city council is expected to consider the plan on April 21, 2026.

The Olathe City Council met on March 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. Mayor John Bacon and Councilmembers Vakas, Creighton, and Deneault were present; Councilmembers Schoonover, Felter, and Essex were absent. City Manager Susan Sherman and City Attorney Ron Shaver were in attendance. The meeting was adjourned at 8:14 PM. Key actions included approval of a major grocery store development, a new animal shelter, a telecommunications facility, and receipt of the Johnson County property revaluation report. Special Business - Planning Commission Reappointment: Resolution No. 26-1024 reappointing Megan Lynn to the Planning Commission was approved 4-0. - Parks and Recreation Leadership Board and Foundation Appointments: Resolution No. 26-1025 appointing Phil Arbuckle, Tim Richards, and Zed Ashker (student) to the Parks and Recreation Leadership Board and Board of Trustees was approved 4-0. - Proclamation: Mayor Bacon proclaimed Olathe a Seven Days City, emphasizing kindness and inclusion. The proclamation was presented to board member Parveen Banu Siddique. - Johnson County 2026 Revaluation Presentation: County Appraiser Carolyn Logan presented residential and commercial property value assessments for Olathe. Key statistics: total appraised value rose to $24 billion (a 5.27% increase from $23 billion in November 2025); average single-family home appraised value is $457,000 (up from $433,000), while the average sale price was $498,000 in 2025; residential building permits were 480 in 2025. Commercial reappraisal growth was 0.13%, with $577 million in new commercial construction added. Abated properties account for 2.38% of county appraised value; Olathe leads the county in economic development incentives. Council questions addressed model accuracy, abatement dollar amounts, and how Olathe compares to other cities. Consent Calendar - Items A through G, I through M, and O were approved as part of the consent agenda (4-0). Item H was pulled for separate discussion. Item N (Workday Adaptive Planning contract) was withdrawn at staff request. - Item H – Telecommunications Facility for Mather West: Resolution No. 26-1026 requested approval for a telecommunications facility southwest of 151st Street and S. Red Bird Street. Councilmember Vakas pulled the item due to resident concerns. Chief Community Development Officer Chet Belcher explained that the site is in an industrial zone, the nearest home is 675 feet away (beyond the 500-foot notification radius), and such facilities are regulated by the FCC. The item was approved 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard; one resident who registered to speak was unable to attend. Discussion Items - Dillons at Sunnybrook (RZ25-0020): Ordinance No. 26-11 approved a rezoning from BP (Business Park) to C-2 (Community Center) District with a preliminary site development plan and final plat for a 100,000 sq ft grocery store, 14-pump gas station, drive-through pharmacy, and online grocery pickup on 14.11 acres southwest of College Boulevard and S. Lone Elm Road. Planning Commission recommended approval 7-0. Council approved the rezoning (4-0), preliminary site plan, and final plat (FP25-0043) unanimously. Store opening is projected for Fall 2027. Councilmember Vakas emphasized proper stormwater management; staff confirmed all truck movements occur on-site. - Olathe Animal Care Campus (RZ25-0008): Ordinance No. 26-12 approved a rezoning from C-3 (Regional Center) and MP-2 (Planned General Industrial) to C-3 with a preliminary site development plan for a 26,000 sq ft animal shelter on 7.44 acres northwest of E. Santa Fe Street and N. Ridgeview Road. Planning Commission recommended approval 7-0. Council approved unanimously (4-0). Two future pad sites will require revised preliminary plans. Councilmember Creighton, echoing absent members, reminded staff to manage costs carefully. - Planning Session – Traffic Ordinance Amendments: Assistant City Attorney Bob Gallimore reported on proposed amendments to Title 10 (Olathe Traffic Ordinance) regarding e-mobility devices. The goal is to simplify categories (e-bikes, e-scooters, motorized skateboards) into two categories and require helmets for riders under 18. Council requested comparative information from other cities and input from the Olathe Teen Council before bringing the ordinance forward for a vote. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (4-0) with absent members not counted. - Resolutions 26-1024 and 26-1025 approved; proclamation accepted; revaluation report received. - Consent agenda approved with exceptions; Item H approved separately; Item N withdrawn. - Ordinance 26-11 (Dillons) and associated final plat approved. - Ordinance 26-12 (Animal Care Campus) and preliminary site plan approved with stipulation. - Traffic ordinance amendment will be further studied with Teen Council input.