Public Meetings - Olathe, Kansas

The Olathe City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Downtown Library Flex Box Theater. The meeting covered special recognitions, a consent agenda item on camera technology, two annexation actions, and updates from the police department. All votes were 6-0 in favor unless noted, with Councilmember Felter absent. Special Business - Parks and Recreation Board Appointments: The Council approved Resolution No. 25-1029, appointing new members to the Parks and Recreation Leadership Board and the Board of Trustees of the Olathe Parks and Recreation Foundation. Chairman Greg Foss introduced new members Shapri Marshall (founder/CEO of Travel Path Homes), Jesse Gillam (Army National Guard veteran and restaurant manager), and Merlin James (senior engineer at Garmin). Foss also highlighted ongoing projects including the new playground at Black Bob Park, the Reclex feasibility study, and community center renovations. - Proclamation – Arbor Week (April 21-25): Mayor Bacon presented the proclamation to City Arborist Supervisor Mike Katzer, noting that Olathe has been a Tree City USA for 42 consecutive years and forestry staff planted over 750 trees last year. This year’s Arbor Week will partner with Olathe West’s Green Tech Academy. - Proclamation – 250th Anniversary of Paul Revere's Ride: Mayor Bacon presented the proclamation to Tim Talbot and Alexis Radil of Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. The proclamation endorses the “Two Lights for Tomorrow” initiative, where city buildings will hang two lanterns on April 18th. - City of Champion Awards: Mayor Bacon and Olathe School District Athletics Director Matt Johnson recognized high school state champions: Olathe Northwest Raven Dance Team (6A state champions, NDA national titles), Hayden Renault (6A 500 free champion), Olathe East 200-yard medley relay team (6A state champions), Audrey Leonard (girls wrestling, 145 lbs state champion), Justice Thomas (girls wrestling, Olathe South’s first four-year champion with a torn labrum), and Giovanni Caudil (boys wrestling, 165 lbs state champion with 51-4 record). Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved with the exception of Item F, which was pulled for separate discussion. - Routine items approved included: approval of April 1, 2025 council minutes, new liquor licenses, a professional services agreement with Garver, LLC for 118th Street design, contracts for aerial lift trucks and rear loaders, and other routine matters. Public Comments & Testimony - Heather Sharp, an Olathe citizen, spoke regarding the winery on Woodland Road (recorded in minutes but not in live-streamed portion). No further details provided. Discussion Items - Item F – Renewal of Price Agreement with Electronic Technology, Inc.: Councilmember Schoonover requested clarification on cameras and license plate readers (LPRs). Chief Information Officer Barrett Baumgartner explained the cameras are used at city facilities and traffic intersections, and LPRs are at eight intersections exclusively for law enforcement purposes, integrated into a metro-wide network to track suspects. The motion to approve passed 6-0. - Police Department Crime Statistics: Councilmember Vogt invited Police Chief Mike Butaud to share highlights from the police awards ceremony and 2024 crime data. Key stats: average emergency response time of 4.3 minutes, violent crime reduced 3.8% (following a 3% reduction in 2023), property crime reduced by 19%, overall crime down 12% (over 13,000 fewer crimes). Clearance rates: 86% for violent crimes (vs. national average 41%), 41% for property crimes (vs. 14% national average). Chief Butaud also noted 44 officers received awards. - New City Council Business: Councilmembers shared updates: Gilmore announced Third Street Social restaurant coming to downtown Olathe; Essex noted MNU cheerleaders won NCA national championships; Vogt congratulated Mayor Bacon on 30 years of service (first meeting April 18, 1995) and announced a June 3rd reception at the library terrace. Mayor Bacon reported the community food drive collected over 700 pounds of food, and farmers markets will open in April. The Council also thanked Deputy City Attorney Chris Grunewald for his 10 years of service (his last meeting). Key Outcomes - Resolution No. 25-1029 (Parks and Rec board appointments): Approved 6-0. - Item F (Electronic Technology price agreement): Approved 6-0. - Ordinance No. 25-10 (Rezoning for Jemi Home Care): Approved 6-0. The 0.84-acre property at 15690 S. Mur-Len Road will be rezoned from County Residential Low Density to R-1 Single-Family; final plat also approved. Planning Commission recommended 9-0. - Annexation Agreement with Commercial Reposition Partners 17, LLC (146+/- acres at NE corner of W. 175th Street and S. Lone Elm Road): Approved 6-0. The property will be developed as an industrial/logistics business park. - Ordinance No. 25-11 (Annexation of the same 146+/- acres): Approved 6-0. - Executive Session: The Council recessed into a 10-minute executive session on information system security (K.S.A.75-4319(b)(12)). After reconvening, they authorized staff to proceed with discussed strategies (vote 6-0). - 2026 Budget Principles: Presentation by Interim Budget Manager Clara Bernauer; no action taken. The 2025 Federal Legislative Program was also discussed but not voted on. Note: The meeting adjourned at 8:27 PM.

The Olathe Planning Commission convened on April 14, 2025, at 1:00 PM in a temporary location, with all nine commissioners present. The meeting included a consent agenda of five routine items and two public hearings: a special use permit for Avis Car Rental and a rezoning for the Olathe Range public safety training facility. All votes were unanimous (9-0). Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (five items) without discussion or pull: motion carried 9-0. Discussion Items A. SU25-0001: Special Use Permit for Avis Car Rental - Proposal: Avis Car Rental requested a special use permit to operate a motor vehicle rental business at 1529 E. Spruce Street, relocating from its current location due to I-35 and Santa Fe interchange construction. The site is a 3,500 sq ft tenant space in an existing 6,250 sq ft vacant flex office building on 0.70 acres, zoned M1 Light Industrial. Seven existing striped parking spaces (five for customers, two for employees) will be used. No exterior changes are proposed. - Staff recommendation: Approval with stipulations addressing neighbor concerns about on-street parking. A nearby resident raised parking concerns, which were resolved through additional stipulations. - Commission discussion: Commissioner Toronis clarified that the site has seven striped spaces and that additional parking for other tenants is required by code. Staff noted that no-parking signs on the south side of Spruce Street are not planned but could be added if needed. - Outcome: Motion to approve with staff stipulations passed 9-0. B. RZ25-0002: Rezoning and Preliminary Site Development Plan for the Olathe Range - Proposal: Request to rezone approximately 95.6 acres from CTY AG (County Agricultural) to AG (Agricultural) and approve a preliminary site development plan for a public safety training facility (Olathe Range), located northwest of 167th Street and I-35. The property was purchased and annexed by the city in 2023. The facility will be developed in three phases: Phase I – two training buildings and a 50-lane outdoor range with a 30-foot berm and sound-absorbing materials; Phase II – a 21,000 sq ft expansion; Phase III – an emergency vehicle driver training course. Tree preservation and landscaping are planned. - Noise study: An independent study by Avant Acoustics found the outdoor range would produce noise levels of approximately 55 decibels at the nearest residential property line (about 1,200 feet away) and up to 65 decibels along the railroad and interstate, below the existing ambient noise level of 66 decibels and compliant with the city’s noise ordinance. - Hours of operation: Chief Pete Todd stated that firing will typically occur Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, occasionally until dusk. The range will primarily use handguns (9mm); most rifles are suppressed. The adjacent Kansas Highway Patrol range is antiquated and insufficient for the department’s needs. - Floodplain: A significant portion of the tract, including Cedar Creek, is in the floodplain, but the outdoor range is outside it. - Neighborhood meeting: Held March 20, 2025, attended by five nearby residents; questions about operations, traffic, and stormwater were addressed. - Airport approval: The site is within one mile of New Century Airport; county approval is required and has been initiated. - Staff recommendation: Approval of the rezoning with no stipulations and the preliminary development plan with one stipulation regarding airport approval. - Outcome: Motion to approve subject to staff stipulations passed 9-0. The item will be considered by City Council on May 6, 2025. Key Outcomes - SU25-0001 (Avis Car Rental special use permit) approved 9-0. - RZ25-0002 (Olathe Range rezoning and preliminary plan) approved 9-0. - The consent agenda of five items was approved 9-0. - The commission acknowledged and thanked Deputy City Attorney Chris Grunwald for his 10 years of service; this was his final meeting.

The Olathe City Council met on April 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Downtown Library FlexBox Theater. The meeting included a presentation on Johnson County 2025 property appraisals, public hearings on a community improvement district and industrial revenue bonds for a downtown redevelopment project, approval of a consent agenda with two items discussed separately, authorization of land acquisition for the I-35 & Santa Fe interchange reconstruction, and several reports and council announcements. The council also held executive sessions regarding an annexation agreement and evaluation of a municipal judge. Consent Calendar - Approved routine items including minutes of previous meetings, new and renewal licenses, business expense statements for a National League of Cities conference, acceptance of final plats for Parkside Reserve 3rd Plat (15 lots), Prairie Farms XV (52 lots), and Lyonz Den Townhomes (1 lot), inclusion of projects in the 2026-2030 County Assistance Road System Program, agreement with Johnson County for Stormwater CCTV Inspection Project, pre-construction phase services agreements with Garney Companies for Cedar Creek WWTP expansion and solids handling, professional services agreements with Burns & McDonnell for design of those projects plus the Super Critical Water Oxidation Pilot Project, design of Spruce and Parker Geometric Improvements, contract awards for environmental services maintenance and Transfer Station Expansion Phase I, contract renewal for mowing services, and IT equipment purchases. All consent items passed unanimously after items E and J were pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the two public hearings (Cherry Street CID and IRB bonds) or during the general citizen comment period. Discussion Items - Johnson County 2025 Appraisals Presentation: Interim County Appraiser Kara Endicott presented an overview of property value changes. Key points: Olathe's total appraised value grew about 8% to approximately $23 billion, with residential properties comprising $19 billion. Average sale price in Olathe was $475,000 while average valuation was $437,000. New single-family permits increased from 300 to 330 in the past year. Only Olathe and Gardner showed healthy growth in attainable housing (homes under $300,000), though no new homes under $300,000 exist in Johnson County. Commercial values rose 2% with new construction up 5.5% due to Walmart beef processing plant, Coca-Cola, and Panasonic. Office vacancy increases drove down some commercial values. Apartment units added: 1,890 last year with 2,000–10,000 more in pipeline. Land absorption: 1,800 acres, 182 new plats. Personal property values dropped another 5% due to exemptions. Councilmembers asked about apartment price points, the feedback loop between rising appraisals and shrinking affordable housing stock, and the rate of appeals (6,700 out of 230,000 parcels). The appraiser noted that supply constraints continue to push sale prices and valuations upward. - Item E: Community Fund Feasibility Study ($12,500): Councilmember Vakas requested information on existing city funds and emphasized the need to avoid leading the consultant toward a predetermined answer. Tim Danneberg (External Affairs Director) explained the study will test community appetite for a community fund and piggyback on an ongoing animal shelter study at reduced cost. The study is expected to take about two months. Mayor Bacon confirmed the study is not limited to the animal shelter but will test broader fund feasibility. Motion passed unanimously. - Item J: 2025 MAQS Micro Surface Project Contract Award: Councilmember Felter asked City Engineer Nate Baldwin to explain the micro surface treatment. Baldwin described it as an overlay with aggregate that extends pavement life to 25 years, costs 2.5 times less than traditional mill and overlay, and is funded by the street preservation sales tax. The project will treat 181 local and collector streets. Councilmember Schoonover asked about the difference between MAQS micro surface (spray) and pressure pave (rolled into cracks). Motion approved unanimously. - New Business – Ordinance 25-09: Land Acquisition for I-35 & Santa Fe Interchange Reconstruction: City Attorney Ron Shaver confirmed that 12 parcels are in active negotiation, with design at approximately 60% complete. The city has identified all needed total takings; remaining design involves structural elements (bridge/retaining walls) that won't affect land acquisition. Goal is to acquire all property by mid-2025. Councilmember Schoonover asked about the eminent domain process; Shaver explained the Kansas Eminent Domain Procedure Act and the Federal Uniform Relocation Act. Motion passed unanimously. - Water Fluoridation Report: Environmental Services Manager Michelle Probasco presented an update. Councilmembers expressed varying positions: Schoonover noted two citizen concerns; Essex said state leaves decision to local governments; Gilmore advocated waiting for court findings; Vogt cited American Dental Association and US Public Health Service support for 0.7 mg/L level; Vakas asked about fluoride in bottled water and water softeners. Report accepted. - Santa Fe Corridor Improvements Status Report: Nate Baldwin updated that KDOT scheduling coordination is ongoing, access to I-35 will be maintained as much as possible, and a construction website is available for community notifications. Report accepted. - Chamber of Commerce Annual Update: Tim McKee (CEO) and Kelly Peetoom (CVB Vice President) provided a 20-minute presentation on chamber activities. (Report accepted.) Key Outcomes - Appointed Emma Plankers to the Olathe Historic Preservation Board (Resolution 25-1026, unanimous). - Proclaimed April 2025 as Volunteer Month. - Approved Ordinance 25-07 creating a community improvement district and levy of CID sales tax for 114-126 N. Cherry Street (unanimous). - Approved Resolution 25-1027 authorizing $7,031,629 in industrial revenue bonds for a multi-tenant restaurant/retail project at the same location (unanimous). - Approved the consent agenda with items E and J pulled; both subsequently passed unanimously. - Approved $12,500 expenditure for a Community Fund Feasibility Study (unanimous). - Awarded construction contract to Donelson Construction Company, LLC for the 2025 MAQS Micro Surface Project (unanimous). - Adopted Ordinance 25-09 approving engineer's survey and authorizing land acquisition for the I-35 & Santa Fe Interchange Reconstruction/Santa Fe Corridor project (unanimous). - Accepted the reports on water fluoridation and Santa Fe improvements. - Accepted the Chamber of Commerce Annual Update. - Recessed into two executive sessions: (1) attorney-client consultation on an annexation agreement (first 15 minutes, then additional 10 minutes – with councilmembers Schoonover, Vakas, and Essex absent for the extension), and (2) personnel evaluation of Municipal Judge Katie McElhinney (20 minutes). After reconvening, council authorized the City Attorney to finalize an annexation agreement for formal consideration (unanimous). Mayor Bacon noted Judge McElhinney is doing a great job. - The meeting adjourned at 9:53 PM. New City Council Business - Councilmember Schoonover recognized March 31 as Trans Day of Visibility, stating "we see you and you are welcome in Olathe." - Councilmember Felter thanked five outgoing Mayor's Children's Fund Board members (Debbie Newton, Jeremy McGever, Bill Schaeffer, Darren Odom, Deanne Ingstrom) and noted the fund distributed $171,500 in March and has raised $2.2 million to date. She also reminded that Teen Council applications are open through July 1. - Councilmember Vakas thanked the Olathe Police Department for keeping the city safe. - Mayor Bacon announced the "Celebrate Olathe Spring Fling" event on April 18 at County Square, and the Mayor's Community Food Drive on April 12 and 29 to stock food pantries for summer.

The Olathe Planning Commission held its regular meeting on March 24, 2025, at a temporary location due to City Hall renovations. All nine commissioners were present. The meeting included approval of a consent agenda, two public hearings, and decisions on a final plat and a rezoning with plat. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, containing three routine items, was approved unanimously (9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Lyonz Den Townhomes (FP25-0005): No public comments were received. - Jemi Homes (RZ25-0001 & FP25-0006): Two neighbors spoke. Stephanie Whitner (16737 W. 157th Street) and Harold Schreiber (1674 W. 157th Terrace) expressed concerns over existing street parking congestion and traffic on 157th Street, especially near Merlin Road. They worried additional on-street parking from the facility would worsen conditions and affect property values. Both asked for better parking controls. Discussion Items - Lyonz Den Townhomes: Senior Planner Emily Corillo presented a request for approval of a final plat and vacation of a sanitary sewer easement for a 0.89-acre lot at 514 E. Kansas City Road. The plat establishes one lot for two previously approved townhome buildings. Staff recommended approval with no stipulations; the applicant agreed. The item was approved unanimously (9-0) and will proceed to City Council on April 1 for dedication acceptance. - Jemi Homes Rezoning and Plat: Planner Andrea Morgan presented a request to rezone 0.84 acres at 15690 S. Renner Road from County Residential Low-Density (CTY RLD) to R-1 Single-Family Residential, and a final plat creating a 36,359 sq. ft. lot. The existing single-family home would be used as a state-licensed home-plus facility for up to ten residents. No exterior changes are planned. On-site parking (six spaces) exists. Staff recommended approval with no stipulations. - Commissioners asked about parking adequacy and enforcement. The applicant, Chris Van Horn (CMP Construction), stated that the detached garage can hold up to eight vehicles, the driveway can hold six, and additional flatwork could be added. He assured that staff would park in the garage and no on-street parking would be used. - Discussion centered on ensuring sufficient off-street parking. Deputy City Attorney Chris Grunwald noted that if parking becomes a safety issue, traffic can post no-parking signs, but there is no direct enforcement mechanism unless conditions change. Commissioner Corcoran proposed requiring a deferred parking plan as a stipulation on the plat. - After debate, the commission approved the rezoning (RZ25-0001) separately with no stipulations (unanimous roll call). Then approved the final plat (FP25-0006) with a stipulation requiring the applicant to submit a deferred parking plan that can be activated if the city determines on-site parking is inadequate (unanimous roll call). Key Outcomes - FP25-0005 (Lyonz Den Townhomes): Approved unanimously (9-0). Forwarded to City Council. - RZ25-0001 (Jemi Homes Rezoning): Approved unanimously (9-0) without stipulations. - FP25-0006 (Jemi Homes Final Plat): Approved unanimously (9-0) with a stipulation for a deferred parking plan to be implemented if needed. - The commission adjourned after announcements.

The Olathe City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Downtown Library Flex Box Theater, a temporary location due to ongoing City Hall renovations. The meeting included proclamations, a K-State Olathe annual report, consent agenda items, public hearings, and new business. Notable discussions included a modification to the Woodland Road Corridor Plan for a housing development and concerns about the Johnson County Transit Plan. The meeting adjourned at 9:07 PM. Special Business - Seven Days Proclamation: Mayor Bacon read a proclamation declaring Olathe a Seven Days supportive city, encouraging residents to celebrate kindness from March 31 to April 8. David Stubblefield, a Seven Days Foundation board member, accepted and spoke. - K-State Olathe Annual Report: Dean Ben Wolf presented the school's achievements, including new programs (undergraduate pre-production and personal financial planning), enrollment growth (31 students after one year in the new program), and a shift toward industry-sponsored research. Discussion covered the AAFCO ingredient review process and funding from producers. Consent Agenda - All items approved except Item M, which was pulled for separate discussion. - Item M: Change Order No. 2 to the agreement with Titan Built LLC for Facility Improvements and Renovations Project (PN 6-C-038-24), including $650,000 for a new children's play area at the community center that doubles the existing space. Approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Gregory Betzen, an Olathe resident owning adjacent property, spoke against the modification to the Woodland Road Corridor Plan transitional lot policy. He argued the developer could achieve feasibility with fewer changes and emphasized the importance of preserving the 15,000-square-foot minimum lot size. He noted that 39 emails opposed the modification while 7 supported it (as stated by staff). - Travis Schram (Grata Development, developer) spoke in favor of the modification, stating the 29-lot plan was necessary for financial viability and to stabilize the Red Hawk Run HOA by adding more lots. Discussion Items - Annexation (Ordinance 25-08): Request to annex 7.93 acres northwest of W. 143rd Street and S. Lakeshore Drive for future single-family development. Approved unanimously (6-0). - Red Hawk Run V Final Plat and Transitional Lot Policy Modification: Request to modify the Woodland Road Corridor Plan's transitional lot minimum size to allow 29 lots (instead of 25) on 10.86 acres. Staff supported the modification due to the narrow site constraints, tree preservation, and enhanced landscaping (50 additional trees and increased setbacks). Councilmember Vakas expressed ethical concerns about deviating from the plan without financial verification and voted no. Councilmember Vogt noted safety and screening benefits. Motion passed 5-1 (Vakas opposed). Key Outcomes - Ordinance 25-08 (Annexation): Approved 6-0. - Red Hawk Run V: Modification and final plat approved 5-1 (Councilmember Vakas dissenting). - Johnson County Transit Plan: Councilmember Vakas proposed sending a letter to the County Commission opposing a proposed service area reduction that would eliminate Olathe from microtransit. Councilmember Vogt requested more information first. City Manager Michael Wilkes indicated staff could invite county commissioners for a future presentation. - Executive Session: Held for 20 minutes to discuss personnel matters regarding the City Auditor position. Council authorized staff to proceed with strategies discussed. New City Council Business - Councilmembers acknowledged the fire department and first responders for their work during red flag wildfire conditions. - Mayor Bacon announced a field house survey (open until March 28) and a Women's History Month presentation at Mahaffie Heritage Center on March 20.

The Olathe City Council met on March 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber (with a pre-meeting check distribution at 6:00 PM). The agenda included presentations on the Mayor’s Children’s Fund, a Black History Month proclamation, and the 2024 DirectionFinder Survey results. The council approved a consent agenda (with one item pulled for separate consideration), two new business items, and later held a planning session that included reports, discussions, and four executive sessions. Councilmember Schoonover was absent; all votes were 6‑0. Special Business - Olathe Mayor’s Children’s Fund 2024 Campaign – Board Chair Debbie Newton reported that the campaign raised $171,545.25 (the minutes state “more than $170,000”) and distributed funds to 15 charities (the minutes list 16). Since 2011, the Pennies for Shoes program alone has raised $363,559. Total funds raised since inception exceed $2.2 million. - Black History Month Proclamation – Mayor Bacon read and presented the proclamation to Rev. Dr. Bobby Love of Second Baptist Church (founded in 1868). Rev. Love accepted on behalf of the African American community in Olathe. - 2024 DirectionFinder Survey Results – ETC Institute CEO Chris Tatham presented results based on 2,034 residents. Overall satisfaction with city services is 92%, 44% above the U.S. average. The areas showing the greatest improvement were traffic flow, street maintenance, and public safety – the top priorities identified last year. The city ranks above the national average in every service category by at least 18 percentage points. The three highest priorities for residents remain traffic congestion, street maintenance, and police/fire services. Consent Calendar All routine items on the consent agenda were approved in one motion, except Item K (vehicle fleet replacement) which was pulled by Councilmember Vakas for separate discussion. - Item K – Resolution 25‑1022 (2025 City‑Wide Fleet Replacement) – Fleet Manager Josh Wood explained the replacement criteria (e.g., fire apparatus at 10 years/11,000 hours, police cruisers at 4 years/100,000 miles). The city’s fleet totals 1,400 units, with 70–80 replacements per year at an annual cost of approximately $9 million. Resolution approved 6‑0. New Business - Ordinance 25‑06 (VAC24‑0001) – Vacation of Public Utility Easement at 12675 S. Shady Bend Road – The Planning Commission recommended approval 7‑0. The easement will be relocated to allow construction of a new home. Approved 6‑0. - 2025 Olathe Outdoor Sculpture Series – Art Committee Chair Chelsy Walker presented seven leased sculptures (one‑year stipends): Natural Wonders, Lyric, Rusted Spire, Snowy Owl, The Reader, Purple Coneflower, and Asparo Vulgaris (sponsored by Azura). The rebranded series now includes locations outside downtown. Approved 6‑0. New City Council Business - Councilmember Felter recognized Black History Month and announced the expansion of the property tax rebate program to include veterans and active military. In 2024, $118,000 in rebates were awarded to nearly 180 residents. - Councilmember Vogt thanked staff for the DirectionFinder results, the fire department for its service awards, and staff for incorporating complete‑street elements (sidewalks, bike paths) into road projects. - Councilmember Gilmore congratulated staff on the survey results. - Councilmember Essex thanked staff, praised the fire department awards ceremony, and noted the success of the Olathe Chamber. - City Manager Michael Wilkes thanked the council and staff for their dedication. - Mayor Bacon announced that council meetings will move to the Downtown Library Flexbox starting March 18, 2025, due to City Hall construction. Public Comments & Testimony (after live stream) - Sarah DeGondea, an Olathe business owner, spoke about the Santa Fe exchange project. Reports (Planning Session) - Potential Revenue from EV Charging Stations – Beth Wright reported that the highest‑use solar chargers are at Indian Creek and Downtown Libraries; the marina charger is used least. Council discussed proposed charges and time limits. Report accepted. - Annexation Request (ANX25‑0001) – Report on a request to annex approximately 7.93 acres northwest of W. 143rd Street and S. Lakeshore Drive. Report accepted. Discussion Items (Planning Session) - Olathe Public Art Committee Initiatives – Chair Chelsy Walker and Ron Fredman presented. Councilmember Felter challenged the committee to enhance the area around the tower across from the downtown library. Councilmember Vakas expressed enthusiasm. Councilmember Vogt asked about collaboration with local artists. Mayor Bacon cautioned that utility‑box art could look cheap but loved the sculptures. Councilmember Gilmore suggested working with new downtown businesses. Discussion was for informational purposes. Executive Sessions (closed to public) The council held four executive sessions (closed to the public) regarding: 1. Acquisition of real property in northwest Olathe. 2. Acquisition of real property for the Quivira Road, 143rd to 151st Improvements Project (PN 3‑C‑011‑24). 3. Information system security measures for the City of Olathe. 4. Personnel matters of non‑elected personnel regarding the City Auditor position. Each session was authorized by a 6‑0 vote (Councilmember Felter was absent for the third session). After reconvening, the council voted 6‑0 to authorize staff to proceed with the strategies discussed and to authorize acquisition of temporary and permanent easements for the Quivira Road project. Key Outcomes - All votes taken during the open session passed 6‑0. - Consent agenda approved except Item K, which was separately approved. - Ordinance 25‑06 and the 2025 Olathe Outdoor Sculpture Series approved. - Property tax rebate program expanded to include veterans and active military. - Staff directed to proceed with real property acquisition strategies and easement acquisition for the Quivira Road project. - Future council meetings will be held at the Downtown Library Flexbox from March 18 through mid‑May, returning to the Council Chamber in June. The meeting adjourned at 9:27 PM.

The Olathe Planning Commission met on Monday, February 24, 2025, with six of nine commissioners present. Commissioners Bergita, Chapman, and Tronis were absent. The meeting included approval of the consent agenda, a public hearing for the Olathe Commons Third Plat final plat with a vacation of easements and dedications, and announcements regarding a temporary meeting location change. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, containing two items, was approved unanimously (6-0) without any items pulled or additional discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak or provided testimony during the public hearing for the Olathe Commons Third Plat. The required public notice was mailed to surrounding property owners, and one interested neighbor was provided the application but made no further inquiries. Discussion Items - Olathe Commons Third Plat (FP24‑0041) – Public Hearing: Senior Planner Nathan Jury presented the request for approval of a final plat with vacation of existing easements and dedications. The site is located southeast of 119th Street and Black Bob Road. The property was previously platted as Olathe Commons First and Second Plats in 2013, but that development was never pursued. The vacation would remove unneeded water line easements, sewer easements, private drives, build lines, and paving setbacks, and would dedicate new easements for the approved development. Staff recommended approval with one stipulation concerning a maintenance agreement for private sewers. Commissioner Creighton asked clarifying questions about consistency with the previously approved plan; staff confirmed the layout, unit count, access points, and traffic improvements have remained the same. The applicant, Judge Clausen of Phelps Engineering, was present but did not make a presentation. The public hearing was opened and closed with no public participation. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 6-0. - Public Hearing Closure: Motion to close the public hearing passed 6-0. - Final Plat Approval: Motion to approve FP24‑0041 (Olathe Commons Third Plat) subject to all staff stipulations passed 6-0 on a roll‑call vote. The item will be heard by the City Council on March 4, 2025. - Meeting Relocation: Due to ongoing construction at City Hall, planning commission meetings will be temporarily held at the Olathe Downtown Library Flex Box Theater beginning March 24, 2025.

The Olathe Planning Commission met on February 10, 2025, with six of nine commissioners present (Commissioners Bergita, Brown, and Corcoran absent; Bergita arrived later). The meeting covered a consent agenda, a discussion on a revised preliminary plat for a QuikTrip, a continuance of a final plat for Olathe Commons, and a public hearing for a drainage easement vacation. All items except one were approved; the QuikTrip plan passed 6–1. Consent Calendar - Items A (not specified in transcript), B (not specified), and D (not specified) were approved unanimously (6–0) after item C (PR24-0023) was pulled for separate discussion. Discussion Items - PR24-0023 – QuikTrip Revised Preliminary Site Development Plan: The applicant proposes redeveloping the former Red Lobster site at 14904 W. 119th Street into a QuikTrip with six pump stations (eight stalls in the drawing). Commissioner Creighton raised concerns about eastbound traffic flow from the site, noting the difficulty of navigating to the nearby signal at 119th Street and Black Bob Road. Staff (Chip Belcher) explained that the traffic study showed intersections operating at acceptable levels (A–D) and that the signal at 119th and Black Bob can be monitored and adjusted to a protected-permissive phase if queues become long. The city’s traffic department monitors signals annually and responds to public complaints. Commissioner Creighton voted no; the motion to approve as stipulated passed 6–1 (Chapman, Lynn, Breen, Toronto, Bergita, Chair Janner in favor; Creighton opposed). Public Hearings - FP24-0041 – Olathe Commons, Third Plat (public hearing): The applicant requested a continuance to a future planning commission meeting. The public hearing was not opened. The continuance motion passed 7–0. - VAC24-0001 – Vacation of Drainage Easement at 12675 S. Shady Bend Road: A public hearing was held. No one signed up to speak. Staff described the request to vacate a public drainage easement to allow construction of a single-family home. The applicant completed required notification. The commission voted 7–0 to approve the vacation as stipulated, with the item to be considered by City Council on February 18, 2025. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda items A, B, D approved (6–0). - QuikTrip revised preliminary plat (PR24-0023) approved (6–1). - Olathe Commons final plat (FP24-0041) continued to a future meeting (7–0). - Drainage easement vacation (VAC24-0001) approved (7–0). - No public comments were made during the open hearing periods.

The Olathe City Council met on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 6:45 PM in the Council Chamber. The live-streamed session began at 7:00 PM after an executive session (6:45–6:56 PM) to discuss the search for a new City Auditor. Present were Mayor Bacon and Councilmembers Vogt, Gilmore, Felter, Vakas, and Essex; Councilmember Schoonover was absent. The council handled several routine items, approved a multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan, awarded contracts for park improvements and wastewater treatment upgrades, and passed ordinances on tort liability and eminent domain. Special Business - Reappointment to Planning Commission (Resolution No. 25-1017): Council unanimously (6-0) reappointed Jeff Creighton to the Planning Commission. Planning Commission Chair Wayne Janner introduced Mr. Creighton, noting his service since 1999 and his business management background. Consent Calendar The council approved the Consent Agenda (minus items E, I, and N, which were pulled for separate discussion) by a 6-0 vote. Items approved without separate discussion included: - Meeting minutes of January 21, 2025 - Renewal of license(s) as recommended by the City Clerk - Travel authorization for councilmembers and the City Manager to attend the NLC conference - Real Estate Agreement with Enterprise Bank & Trust - Resolution No. 25-1019 authorizing a KDHE loan application for the Super Critical Water Oxidation Project - Engineer’s estimate and award of contract to McAnany Construction, Inc. for the 2025 Local and Collector Street Mill and Overlay Project – Group A - Agreement with Johnson County for funding the 143rd Street/Lakeshore Drive Arterial Mill and Overlay Project - Agreement with Johnson County for funding the Anne Shirley Drive Pipe Lining Project - Agreement with Johnson County for funding the Public Safety Drive Reconstruction Project - Professional Services Agreement with HNTB Corporation for contract project management services Discussion Items - Item E – Adoption of 2024 Region L Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (Resolution No. 25-1018): Fire Chief DeGraffenreid explained that the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires all political jurisdictions to have a plan to be eligible for non-emergency funding. Region L includes Wyandotte, Johnson, and Leavenworth counties. The plan identifies 11 projects totaling nearly $5 million, including dam safety at Lake Olathe, power generation for water lift stations, tornado shelters, and hospital backup power. Councilmember Vogt noted four projects with a one-year timeline amount to approximately $4 million, and asked about funding if federal grants are not approved. Chief DeGraffenreid said staff would first seek other grants before turning to the budget process. Mayor Bacon asked about traffic signal battery backups; City Engineer Nate Baldwin confirmed only eight signals lack battery backup, and those batteries last about 12 hours. The resolution passed 6-0. - Item I – Prairie Center Park Improvements Phase 1 (Project PN 4-C-016-22): The council approved an Engineer’s Estimate and award of contract to Sands Construction, LLC. Nate Baldwin presented improvements funded by the Park Sales Tax, including a new 186-stall parking lot west of the northernmost lot, two new pickleball courts, and reconstruction of concrete concourses on the south fields (separate contract for backstops and safety netting approved in October 2024). The motion passed 6-0. - Item N – Upgrade UV Modules at Harold Street Wastewater Treatment Plant: Council approved a single-source contract award to Trojan Technologies. Environmental Services Manager Michelle Probasco explained that sole-sourcing was necessary because the upstream control equipment is also Trojan; using a different vendor would void the warranty on existing equipment. The motion passed 6-0. - New Business A – Ordinance No. 25-05 (Tort Liability Claims): Council unanimously approved an amendment to Section 3.60.140 of the Olathe Municipal Code regarding general policy on tort liability claims. The vote was 6-0. - New Business B – Ordinance No. 25-06 (Eminent Domain for Animal Shelter): The council authorized payment of an eminent domain award and court-appointed appraisers’ fees in the case of City of Olathe v. Sutherland Lumber Company of Kansas City, LLC, for the Animal Shelter Project (PN 6-C-007-23). Councilmember Gilmore opposed, stating that a shelter could be built elsewhere and he did not see the need to take private property for a purpose other than highways, bridges, or railroads. The ordinance passed 5-1, with Gilmore voting no. New City Council Business Councilmembers made brief announcements: Vogt thanked participants in the Chill Chasers walk (fundraiser for Health Partnership Clinic, raising $37,000–$38,000 with about 300 attendees) and staff for after-hours communication; Felter praised the Police and Fire Departments’ social media content and noted a discussion with KU social work students; Mayor Bacon recognized February as Black History Month (proclamation at the February 18 meeting) and announced the second annual Neighborhood Leadership Summit on March 1 in partnership with Overland Park. Key Outcomes - Reappointment to Planning Commission: Approved 6-0. - Consent Agenda (excluding E, I, N): Approved 6-0. - Resolution No. 25-1018 (Hazard Mitigation Plan): Approved 6-0. - Prairie Center Park Improvements Contract: Approved 6-0. - UV Module Upgrade Contract: Approved 6-0. - Ordinance No. 25-05 (Tort Liability): Approved 6-0. - Ordinance No. 25-06 (Eminent Domain): Approved 5-1 (Gilmore dissenting). The live-streamed session concluded at 7:26 PM; no public comments were heard.