Independence, Missouri

Executive Sessions

The Independence City Council is meeting in a closed executive session on July 6, 2026, to discuss litigation, legal action, and attorney-client communications as permitted by Missouri law. No public business or decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists solely of procedural items for the closed session.

• Closed executive session under RSMo 610.021(1) for litigation and legal communications

Council Meetings

The City Council is meeting to vote on several high-value infrastructure and fuel contracts and a bond issuance for redevelopment. The body will also consider 180-day moratoriums on data processing facilities and battery energy storage systems.

• Ordinance for Tax Increment and Special District Revenue Bonds for Wally’s Redevelopment Project up to $12,000,000
• Fuel and fuel oil purchase contract with Frazier Oil & LP Gas Company, Inc. for $4,340,000
• Water main replacement contract with Earthworks Excavation & Associates, LLC for $1,124,903.48 on Sheley Rd.
• 180-day moratoriums on data processing/hosting facilities and battery energy storage systems (BESS)
• Proposed special recall election ordinance

Special Meetings

The Independence Emergency Medical Services Committee will meet virtually to review AMR and fire emergency responses, receive reports from the medical director, Centerpoint, IPD/Communication Center, and regional emergency preparedness, and discuss the ARCH co-responder program. The committee may vote to close a portion of the meeting under state law to discuss nonjudicial mental or physical health proceedings involving identifiable persons.

• REVIEW OF AMR EMERGENCY RESPONSES
• REVIEW OF FIRE EMERGENCY RESPONSES
• MEDICAL DIRECTOR REPORT
• ARCH CO-RESPONDER PROGRAM UPDATE
• Possible closed session under RSMo. 610.021(5) for health proceedings

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Council will discuss a permanent art solution and long-term art plan for the Independence Municipal Commons, as well as the broader Independence Public Arts Plan and its implementation. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting consists of discussion items only.

• Discussion of a permanent art solution and long-term plan for the Independence Municipal Commons
• Discussion of the Independence Public Arts Plan and associated implementation process

Advisory Committee Meetings

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee is meeting to coordinate a student exchange and plan the Uptown Matsuri. The body will discuss venue availability and volunteer staffing for these events.

• Planning for Japan exchange, including Truman Memorial building availability
• Discussion of potential November 7th date for Uptown Matsuri

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will hold public hearings on proposed changes to four articles of the City of Independence Personnel Policies & Procedures Manual. The changes address workplace and equal employment opportunity complaint procedures (Article I), recruitment and selection (Article III), attendance and hours of work (Article IV), and re-employment after separation (Article VI). The board will also consider approving the minutes from May 15, 2026. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing on Article I changes: Workplace & Equal Employment Opportunity complaint procedures
• Public hearing on Article III changes: Recruitment, Selection, Probation and Promotion
• Public hearing on Article IV changes: Hours of Work and Leave attendance rules
• Public hearing on Article VI changes: Separation and Disciplinary Action re-employment language
• Approval of May 15, 2026 meeting minutes

Workshops & Study Sessions

The City Council will discuss a resolution to direct the City Manager to bring a ballot initiative for funding historic sites to the November 2026 General Election. The session also includes presentations on Truman Connected Phase 2 and GO Bond construction.

• Resolution for historic site funding ballot initiative
• Truman Connected Phase 2 update
• GO Bond construction update

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission is meeting to discuss several upcoming community events and review award selections. Items include overviews of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and Juneteenth event, along with discussions on the ICON Award, Island Fest, and a skateboard competition. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; the agenda is primarily for discussion and planning.

• Review of ICON Award selection and presentation
• Island Fest overview and discussion
• Skateboard competition event discussion
• 2026 FIFA World Cup overview
• Juneteenth event overview

Planning Commission

Public Hearings

Special Meetings

Planning Commission

Planning Commission

Advisory Committee Meetings

Public Hearings

Special Meetings

Planning Commission

Planning Commission

Public Hearings

Special Meetings

Planning Commission

Planning Commission

Public Hearings

Planning Commission

Planning Commission

Public Hearings

Planning Commission

Public Hearings

Audit and Finance Committee

The Audit and Finance Committee will meet to discuss updates to the city's investment policy and internal service funds reserve policies. The body will also receive a presentation on credit card processing fees and financial updates.

• Investment Policy Update
• Credit Card Processing Fee Presentation
• Internal Service Funds Reserve Policies
• Monthly Financials Update
• Risk Management/Work Comp Update

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to consider two applications to operate short-term rentals. The body will also review the minutes from the June 9, 2026 meeting.

• Case 26-400-74: Short-term rental request at 112 N. Ash Ave
• Case 26-400-75: Short-term rental request at 14820 E. 46th St S

Special Meetings

This is a regular meeting of the Stay Well Committee to review financial statements, receive updates from CIGNA and CBiz, and discuss wellness activities. No specific votes or decisions are listed; the agenda consists of routine reports and updates.

• Financial statement presented by the Finance Department
• Update from CIGNA by Kevin Kueker and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• HR update presented by Bethany Dickey

Workshops & Study Sessions

The City Council is considering two resolutions that would impose 180-day moratoriums on permits for data processing and hosting facilities and for battery energy storage systems. The study session will discuss these proposed bans on new applications. No citizen requests are eligible under council rules.

• Resolution for 180-day moratorium on data processing and hosting facility permits (Councilmember Stewart)
• Resolution for 180-day moratorium on battery energy storage system (BESS) facility permits (Councilmember Stewart)

Council Meetings

This is a solely procedural closed executive session. The City Council will convene in private to discuss litigation, legal actions, attorney-client communications, and personnel matters as permitted by state law. No public business is scheduled.

• Closed session under RSMo. 610.021(1) for litigation and attorney-client communications
• Closed session under RSMo. 610.021(3) and (13) for personnel and personnel records

Public Hearings

The Independence Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on June 18, 2026, for Case 26-999-06, a variance to lot standards at 606 N Hocker Ave. The agenda also includes approval of the May 21, 2026 meeting minutes and administrative items.

• Public hearing on Case 26-999-06 – variance to lot standards at 606 N Hocker Ave

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will hear presentations on a water rate study by Black and Veatch and on MyMeter convenience fees. Reports include updates on the AMI Program Manager, delays at the Blue Valley Generation Site, and April 2026 financials. No votes on these items are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and information only.

• Presentation on MyMeter and convenience fees by IPL Customer Service
• Water rate study presentation by Black and Veatch
• Update on AMI Program Manager
• Update on Blue Valley Generation Site timeline/delays
• Review of April 2026 utility financial reports

Council Meetings

The City Council adopted the annual operating and capital budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting also included several insurance renewals, utility service contracts, and a notification regarding a special recall election.

• Adoption of Annual Operating and Capital Budgets for FY 2026-27
• $2,500,000 for augmented journeyman lineman crews for Independence Power & Light
• $830,425 contract for on-demand micro-transit services with WHC SAF, LLC
• Issuance of $12,000,000 in bonds for the Wally’s Redevelopment Project (First Reading)
• Notification of a special recall election for District 1 Councilmember John Perkins

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will meet to approve minutes from May 14 and discuss old business including an award for a local business or individual, a postponed bike ride of historic places, and an update on KC Can Compost. New business involves setting 2026 commission priorities. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are on the agenda.

• Award for local business or individual – update
• Bike Ride of Historic Places – postponed (Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, Bingham Waggoner, Chicago Alton Depot)
• KC Can Compost Information Update
• 2026 Commission priorities discussion

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will meet to discuss student exchange updates and plan for a Japan exchange. The body will vote on leftover student funds and the exchange budget.

• Vote on American Student Exchange leftover funds
• Vote on Japan exchange budget
• Confirmation of Truman Memorial building availability
• Discussion of potential Uptown Matsuri date on Saturday, November 7th

The committee approved the May minutes and set a budget limit for upcoming student exchange events. A discussion regarding the distribution of leftover student funds was tabled until Danijela returns from the exchange trip.

• Approved May minutes (unanimous)
• Set 2026 student exchange activity budget not to exceed $5,000
• Tabled discussion on student leftover funds

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission will consider a landscape plan for the Vaile Mansion, review Legacy Trees, and hear an update on the Truman Connect project. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and open discussion under Tree Talk.

• New Business: Landscape Plan for Vaile Mansion at 1500 N. Liberty
• Old Business: Truman Connect update with Alex Lopez
• Old Business: Legacy Trees review

The commission discussed updating Independence tree ordinances using guidelines from Liberty and Overland Park. Recommendations will be sent to the City Council for approval and the assignment of an enforcement committee.

• Approved May 13, 2026 meeting minutes
• Proposed updating tree ordinances based on Liberty and Overland Park guidelines

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider several rezoning requests and development plans, including a rental car business permit and a short-term rental application. The body will also vote on preliminary and final plats for residential projects.

• Rezoning of 16523 E US 40 Hwy to C-2 (General Commercial)
• Rezoning of 20691 E US 24 Highway to R-6/PUD (Single Family Residential/Planned Unit Development)
• Special Use Permit for a rental car business at 3601 S. Noland Road
• Preliminary Development Plans for The Cottages at White Oak (136 E. White Oak) and McBee Acres
• Short-Term Rental request for 5217 S Powell Ave

The Planning Commission approved a short-term rental at 5217 S Powell Ave despite neighbor concerns about safety and noise. Also approved were a special use permit for an Avis overflow parking lot on Noland Road (with added lighting condition) and a rezoning for a culinary teaching center on US 40 Highway. The consent agenda (including three subdivision plats) was passed unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes, Meadowbrook Estates Phase 2 preliminary and final plats, Jackson Place final plat) – 7-0
• Approved short-term rental at 5217 S Powell Ave – 7-0
• Approved special use permit for rental car overflow lot at 3601 S Noland Road with added condition requiring lighting before use – main motion 7-0, condition added 6-1
• Approved rezoning of 16523 E US 40 Hwy from R-6/C-2 to C-2 for a culinary teaching and urban farming project – 7-0

Workshops & Study Sessions

The Independence City Council will hold a study session to discuss a resolution directing the City Manager to explore funding for city-owned Historic Sites. The meeting will also include an update on the Ennovation Center and a note regarding potential closed executive sessions.

• Resolution to explore funding for Historic Sites
• Ennovation Center Update
• Potential Closed Executive Session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Animal Welfare Committee will meet to select a chair and vice-chair. The body will also review subcommittee updates and data.

• Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair

The Animal Welfare Committee elected Ted Luce as chair and Linda Pringle as vice chair. The committee approved a motion to combine the Communications and Legislative subcommittees into two new groups: Volunteer and Fundraising. The group discussed the status of the Animal Control move to the Health & Animal Services Department.

• Elected Ted Luce as chair (unanimous)
• Elected Linda Pringle as vice chair (unanimous)
• Approved combining Communications and Legislative subcommittees (unanimous)
• Approved minutes as written (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:16 pm (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The Animal Welfare Committee is convening a special meeting for a 'Community World Cafe' event focused on the Friends of the Independence Shelter. The agenda notes only that a quorum may be present, indicating the meeting is largely procedural or discussion-based.

• Community World Cafe meeting on Friends of the Independence Shelter

The Animal Welfare Committee met on June 7, 2026, but the minutes state 'No meeting minutes recorded. Notice only.' No substantive decisions, proposals, or discussions were documented.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Advisory Board of Health will meet virtually to select a Vice Chair. The board will also receive updates regarding kratom and communicable diseases.

• Selection of Vice Chair
• Kratom update
• Communicable disease update

The Independence Advisory Board of Health meeting scheduled for June 4, 2026 was canceled because a quorum was not present. No decisions or discussions took place.

General

The Heritage Commission will elect a chair, vice-chair, and secretary, then hear a presentation from the Independence Square Association on a Missouri Main Street designation for the historic Square. Public comment will be taken.

• Election of officers (chair, vice-chair, secretary)
• Presentation by Independence Square Association on Missouri Main Street designation
• Approval of March 3, 2026 minutes
• Public comment period

Special Meetings

The committee will meet virtually to review various emergency response reports. Discussion items include reviews of AMR and fire emergency responses, as well as updates on the Arch Co-Responder Program.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of Fire emergency responses
• Medical Director report
• Centerpoint updates
• Arch Co-Responder Program update

The committee approved the April meeting minutes. Members received updates regarding health department issues, emergency response times, and regional preparedness staffing.

• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council Meetings

The City Council is conducting a public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Operating and Capital Budgets. The body is also deciding on several redevelopment plans and infrastructure expenditures for the Power & Light Department.

• Public hearing for Fiscal Year 2026-27 Proposed Budget
• Expenditures for Power & Light: $500,000 for transformers, $400,827 for a Digger Derrick, and $180,000 for Itron Meters
• Approval of Noland Fashion Square Tax Increment Financing Redevelopment Plan and $75 million in taxable industrial development revenue bonds
• Acceptance of four MoDOT grants for Police Department enforcement totaling $1,797,750
• Approval of Savers retail store at 16607 East 23rd Street South

Executive Sessions

The City Council is convening a closed executive session under Missouri law to discuss litigation, legal actions, attorney-client communications, and personnel records. No specific agenda items or decisions are listed; the session is procedural and confidential.

• Closed session authorized under RSMo. 610.021(1) for litigation and attorney-client matters
• Closed session authorized under RSMo. 610.021(13) for personnel records

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings to consider variance requests for fence and setback requirements at two properties in Independence. The board will also approve the minutes from a previous meeting.

• Public hearing for Case 26-999-02 at 17226 E 40th Ter S (fence variance)
• Public hearing for Case 26-999-05 at 18901 E 33rd Ter Ct S (setback variance)
• Approval of March 19, 2026 minutes

The Board of Adjustment approved two variance requests unanimously. Case 26-999-02 granted a fence-height variance at 17226 E 40th Ter S. Case 26-999-05 granted a setback variance at 18901 E 33rd Ter Ct S. The board also approved the minutes from the March 19, 2026 meeting.

• Approved fence variance at 17226 E 40th Ter S (4-0)
• Approved setback variance at 18901 E 33rd Ter Ct S (4-0)
• Approved March 19, 2026 meeting minutes (4-0)

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will discuss March 2026 utility financial reports, an update on the AMI Program Manager, and delays at the Blue Valley Generation site. The board also will review the Consolidated Planning Process for the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) and IPL statistical charts. No votes or decisions are scheduled; items are for discussion and information only.

• Questions on Utility Financial Reports – March 2026
• Update on AMI Program Manager
• Update on Blue Valley Generation Site Timeline/Delays
• Consolidated Planning Process (CPP) for Southwest Power Pool (SPP)
• IPL Statistical Charts – March 2026

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee is meeting to approve minutes from March and April, receive financial statements from the Finance Department and a financial report from CBiz, and hear updates from CIGNA and HR. The committee will also discuss wellness activities and conduct the Cigna annual review.

• Approval of March and April minutes
• Financial statement from Finance Department for March and April
• Update from CIGNA presented by Kevin Kueker and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report from CBiz for March and April
• Update from HR and wellness activities presented by Bethany Dickey and Selena Good

The meeting was largely informational, with no substantive decisions made. The committee approved the March and April minutes and received financial reports showing a net income of $2.57 million for the fiscal year to date.

• Approved March meeting minutes
• Approved April meeting minutes

Council Meetings

The City Council held public hearings and first readings for a comprehensive redevelopment plan for Noland Fashion Square, including tax increment financing and a transportation development district. The body also approved several infrastructure contracts and a liquor license for Truman Stop.

• Proposed $75,000,000 in taxable industrial development revenue bonds for Noland Fashion Square
• Approved $769,817.00 purchase order to Design Mechanical via budget amendment
• Approved $929,887 contract with Midwest Public Risk for property and vehicle insurance
• Approved $446,884.75 for Olsson Associates for Rockwood Storm Drainage Improvements
• Approved retail liquor license for Truman Stop at 11715 E. US Highway 24

City Council approved several infrastructure change orders and a liquor license for Truman Stop. The council also passed resolutions updating personnel manuals and appointing members to various city boards. Multiple ordinances regarding the Noland Fashion Square redevelopment were read for the first time.

• Approved $769,817 for HVAC replacement at the Commons (7-0)
• Approved liquor license for Truman Stop at 11715 E. US Highway 24 (7-0)
• Approved $148,650 for Madison Rd Sanitary Sewer Repair
• Approved $446,884.75 for Rockwood Storm Drainage Improvements
• Approved $250,000 for Power Distribution Transformers
• Approved $929,887 for non-utility property insurance policies
• Approved appointments to House Authority, Board of Adjustment, and Heritage commissions
• Postponed appointments to boards and Audit and Finance Committee to 6/1/26 (7-0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will consider approving minutes from March, discuss a skateboard competition event, and select nominees for the ICON Award. The agenda is primarily procedural and focused on community events and awards.

• Approval of meeting minutes from March 10, 2026
• Discussion of Skateboard Competition Event
• ICON Award nominations and selections
• Discussion of upcoming community events

The Human Relations Commission approved the 2026 ICON Awards for West iNd Connection and former Mayor Eileen Weir. The commission also postponed a discussion regarding a skateboard competition event.

• Approved March 10, 2026 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Postponed skateboard competition discussion to July meeting (5-0)
• Awarded 2026 ICON Awards to West iNd Connection and former Mayor Eileen Weir (5-0)

Special Meetings

The Personnel Board will hold a special meeting to review and discuss updates to several employment policy articles, including complaint procedures, recruitment, attendance, and re-employment after separation. The board will also consider approval of the March 13, 2026 meeting minutes.

• Approval of March 13, 2026 meeting minutes
• Article I – Complaint Procedure
• Article III – Recruitment
• Article IV – Attendance
• Article VI – Re-employment after Separation

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Sustainability Commission will consider approval of April 14 meeting minutes, receive an update on a sustainability award for a local business or individual, discuss a bike ride of historic places that has been postponed, and get an update from KC Can Compost. New business includes setting the commission's 2026 priorities.

• Approval of April 14, 2026 meeting minutes
• Update on sustainability award for local business or individual
• Bike Ride of Historic Places – postponed, featuring Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, Bingham Waggoner, Chicago Alton Depot
• KC Can Compost information update
• Discussion of 2026 Commission priorities

Advisory Committee Meetings

The committee will discuss updates regarding American student exchanges and host family recruiting. The agenda also includes planning for Japanese Market Day and a discussion regarding a 501c3 organization.

• American Student Exchange Updates
• Host Family Recruiting Updates
• Japanese Market Day
• 501c3 Discussion and Planning

The committee unanimously approved the previous meeting's minutes. Most of the meeting consisted of updates on the American student exchange program, host family recruitment, Japanese Market Day fundraising, and 501(c)(3) application status. No substantive policy decisions or votes on contracts or ordinances were taken.

• Approved prior minutes (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss legacy trees. The commission will also address the landscape plan for Truman Connect.

• Landscape Plan - Truman Connect
• Legacy Trees

The Independence Tree Commission approved the April 2026 meeting minutes and received an update on the Legacy Tree Program, which will soon be available on the city website. No formal decisions were made on the Truman Connect landscape plan or other items; discussion was limited to updates and planning for future review of the tree ordinance.

• Approved April 8, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Public Hearings

The Independence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider two requests for short-term rental permits at properties on S Crisp Ave and S River Blvd. The meeting will also include approval of the April 14, 2026 commission minutes.

• Approval of Planning Commission Minutes – April 14, 2026
• Case 26-400-47 – Short-Term Rental request at 1110 S Crisp Ave
• Case 26-400-48 – Short-Term Rental request at 4125 S River Blvd

The Planning Commission approved two applications to operate short-term rentals. One request was approved unanimously, while the second was approved despite objections from neighbors regarding safety and property values.

• Approved April 14, 2026 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved short-term rental request for 1110 S Crisp Ave (6-0)
• Approved short-term rental request for 4125 S River Blvd (5-1)

Council Meetings

The City Council will receive a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Proposed Budget during this study session. The item is listed as information only, so no formal action is expected. The council may also convene a closed executive session on permitted matters such as litigation, personnel, or contracts.

• Presentation of Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Proposed Budget
• Possible closed executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Park Commission will meet on May 7, 2026, to handle routine administrative business. The agenda lists standard staff reports covering the budget, facilities, recreation services, and marketing. Commissioners will also review updates to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan as old business. This agenda contains no public hearings or specific vote items.

• Approval of February 5, 2026 meeting minutes
• Staff reports on budget, parks facilities, recreation services, and marketing
• Review of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan
• Placeholder for new business items

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold public hearings on two rezoning applications and vote on several ordinances and resolutions, including a $13.56 million contract for the Bly Road Switchyard construction for the Independence Power & Light Department. Other actions include approving a $2.18 million asphalt overlay contract, authorizing right-of-way acquisition for the Winner Road Complete Streets project, and a first reading of a budget amendment. All listed items on the consent and regular agendas were approved by a 7-0 vote.

• $13.56 million Engineer-Procure-Construct agreement with EPC Services Company for Bly Road Switchyard construction for IPL
• $2.18 million construction contract with Superior Bowen Asphalt Co. for FY 26 Asphalt Overlay Project
• Public hearing and approval to rezone 710 S. Hawthorne Ave from R-30/PUD to R-6 Single-Family Residential
• Public hearing and approval to rezone city-owned properties near Truman & Noland, Lexington & Memorial, and Lexington & Lynn to Historic Square (HSQ) district
• Ordinance authorizing right-of-way acquisition and potential eminent domain for the Winner Road Complete Streets Project

The City Council approved a major construction agreement for the Power & Light Department and authorized several infrastructure contracts. They also approved two rezoning requests and an amendment to the FY 2025-2026 budget.

• Approved $13,561,176 EPC Agreement for Bly Road Switchyard Construction (7-0)
• Approved $2,178,782.22 contract with Superior Bowen Asphalt Co., LLC for FY 26 Asphalt Overlay Project
• Approved $462,627 change order for Fire Station #8 water main relocation
• Approved $721,345 change order for Upper Adair Interceptor Project engineering
• Approved rezoning of 710 S. Hawthorne Ave to R-6 Single-Family Residential (7-0)
• Approved rezoning of city-owned properties near Truman & Noland, Lexington & Memorial, and Lexington & Lynn to HSQ Historic Square (7-0)
• Approved resolution requiring Council approval for separation agreements exceeding City Manager's purchasing authority (7-0)
• Approved FY 2025-2026 budget amendment (7-0)

Council Meetings

The City Council is convening a closed executive session to discuss litigation, legal action, and attorney-client communications as permitted by state law. No public business or decisions are scheduled.

• Closed session under RSMo. 610.021(1) for litigation and legal matters

Planning Commission

The April 28, 2026 Planning Commission meeting has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be on May 12, 2026.

• Meeting cancelled; no items considered

The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for April 28, 2026, was cancelled. No decisions were made.

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee will meet to review financial statements and updates from Cigna, CBiz, and HR. The agenda also includes a discussion of wellness activities.

• Financial statement presentation by the Finance Department
• Update from Cigna presented by Kevin Kueker and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• Update from HR presented by Bethany Dickey
• Wellness activities discussion led by Selena Good

The Stay Well Committee met on April 28, 2026, but a quorum was not present. All items requiring approval were deferred to the next meeting.

Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss a resolution requiring council approval before the city manager executes any separation agreement that exceeds the manager's purchasing authority. Council will also receive the 2025 Annual Police Report and semi-annual reports from several oversight committees. The meeting may enter closed executive session for litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations.

• Resolution 26-719: Would require council approval for separation agreements exceeding city manager's purchasing authority
• 2025 Annual Police Report presentation
• Semi-Annual Report of the Independence Park Commission
• Semi-Annual Report of the Stormwater Oversight Committee
• Semi-Annual Report of the Street Improvement Oversight Committee

Council Meetings

The City Council will meet in a closed executive session regarding litigation, legal action, or attorney-client communications. This meeting is scheduled for April 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

• Closed Executive Session regarding litigation and legal action

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board meets to receive reports on utility finances for February 2026 and updates on the AMI program manager, IPL statistical charts, and demolition of old city hall. The agenda is informational with no formal votes or ordinances scheduled.

• Questions on Utility Financial Reports - February 2026
• Update on AMI Program Manager
• IPL Statistical Charts - February 2026
• Update on Demo of Old City Hall

TIF Commission

The TIF Commission will hold a public hearing on the Noland Fashion Square Tax Increment Financing Redevelopment Plan and consider a resolution recommending approval of the plan, redevelopment area, blight designation, projects, and developer to the City Council.

• Public hearing on Noland Fashion Square TIF Redevelopment Plan
• Resolution recommending approval of TIF plan and blight designation
• Approval of redevelopment projects and developer of record
• Election of officers and approval of November 2025 meeting minutes

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved a $2 billion industrial development revenue bond issuance and multiple construction contracts, including bridge repairs and a switchyard project. A rezoning request for historic square properties was postponed.

• Authorize $2B industrial development revenue bonds
• Approve $147,600 for fleet vehicles
• Approve $428,528 for Fire Station #1 roof replacement
• Approve $1.15M for Kentucky Avenue and RD Mize bridge engineering
• Approve $160,000 for Crysler Avenue Bridge construction

Public Hearings

This Board of Adjustment meeting consists entirely of items that have been continued to the May 21, 2026 meeting. No public hearings or decisions will occur on this date.

• Case 26-999-02 – 17226 E 40th Ter S – Variances to fence requirements (continued)

The Board of Adjustment continued all items on the agenda to the May 21, 2026 meeting, including the public hearing for a fence variance at 17226 E 40th Ter S. No decisions were made.

• Continued Case 26-999-02 (fence variances) to May 21, 2026

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee will meet to receive and accept quarterly reports from the Fire and Police Departments, including use tax, marijuana tax, and Prop PD tax reports. No new policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from January 13, 2026 meeting
• Acceptance of Fire Department quarterly report
• Acceptance of Police Department quarterly report
• Acceptance of quarterly use tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of marijuana tax report from Police Department

The committee approved the quarterly reports for the Independence Fire Department and Police Department. The Police Department reported a projected $1 million overtime budget deficit and 24 officer vacancies. The Fire Department provided updates on station construction and apparatus procurement.

• Approved January 13th, 2026 meeting minutes
• Approved Fire Department Quarterly Report
• Approved Police Department Quarterly Report
• Approved Police Department Quarterly Use Tax Report
• Approved Police Department Marijuana Tax Report
• Approved Police Department Quarterly Prop PD Tax Report

Planning Commission

The Independence Planning Commission will review nine requests to operate short-term rentals at various properties. The meeting includes a consent agenda for routine items and a roundtable discussion for the next session.

• Review of nine short-term rental permit requests
• Approval of March 24, 2026 Planning Commission minutes
• Roundtable discussion for the next meeting on May 12, 2026

The Planning Commission unanimously approved all eight short-term rental applications on the agenda. One case (317 N. Cogan Ln.) required an additional condition prohibiting street parking, which passed 5-2 before the final approval 7-0. All other cases were approved 7-0 or 6-0-1 (one recusal). The commission also approved the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved STR at 317 N. Cogan Ln. with added street-parking condition (final 7-0)
• Approved STR at 14104 E. 39th St. S. (7-0)
• Approved STR at 1312 S. Emery Ave. (7-0)
• Approved STR at 3829 S. Crane St. (7-0)
• Approved STR at 3021 Porter Rd. (6-0-1, commissioner recused)
• Approved STR at 12717 E. 48th St. S. (7-0)
• Approved STR at 1526 E. Hayward Ave. (7-0)
• Approved STR at 15212 E. 33rd St. S. (7-0)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will approve minutes from March, discuss an award for a local business or individual, and receive updates on a postponed Bike Ride of Historic Places and the KC Can Compost program. Under new business, members will set their 2026 commission priorities.

• Award for local business or individual – update and nomination link provided
• Bike Ride of Historic Places postponed; four museums listed as stops
• KC Can Compost Information Update
• 2026 Commission priorities to be established

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to discuss a resolution aligning city environmental health standards with Jackson County. The meeting also includes presentations on risk management, historic sites, and IPL governance.

• Resolution 26-718 regarding environmental health standards consistent with Jackson County
• Risk Management Update presentation
• Historic Sites Master Plan presentation
• IPL Governance presentation

The City Council voted 7-0 to suspend meeting rules, allowing non-citizens to speak during the citizen requests portion of the meeting. The Council also heard a presentation on the Risk Management Fund and a study session on the Historic Sites Master Plan.

• Suspended rules to allow non-citizens to speak (7-0)
• Postponed indefinitely resolution on environmental health standards
• Heard Risk Management Fund presentation
• Heard Historic Sites Master Plan study session

Council Meetings

This is a procedural agenda for a City Council closed executive session. No specific votes or public decisions are scheduled; the session may discuss litigation, personnel, and contracts as permitted by state law.

• Possible discussion of litigation and legal matters under RSMo. 610.021(1)
• Possible discussion of personnel matters under RSMo. 610.021(3) and (13)
• Possible discussion of contracts under RSMo. 610.021(12)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will meet to discuss updates on the American student exchange program and host family recruitment, as well as planning for Japanese Market Day. A key discussion item is the potential formation of a 501c3 organization, which would affect the committee's legal and financial structure. Sub-committee assignments and a youth club proposal will also be addressed.

• 501c3 discussion and planning for legal/financial structure
• Updates on American student exchange and host family recruiting
• Japanese Market Day planning
• Sub-committee assignments with monthly responsibilities
• Youth club proposal for student engagement

The Japanese Sister City Committee approved $20,333 for 10 student exchange tickets ($2,033 per person) with base insurance. They also approved a refund for participant Jacob minus $200 deposit and $75 class fee. No updates were received on legal review of travel paperwork, host family recruitment, 501(c)(3) status, or sub-committee assignments.

• Approved $20,333 for 10 student exchange tickets with base insurance (unanimous)
• Approved refund for Jacob minus $200 deposit and $75 class fee (unanimous)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The council will vote on a resolution to issue up to $2 billion in taxable industrial development revenue bonds, and on an Energy Management Agreement with Rainbow Energy Marketing Corporation totaling $3,472,647. Other action items include a ban on certain kratom derivatives, a rezoning of city-owned properties near Truman Road to Historic Square district, and multiple contracts for sidewalk projects and power plant repairs.

• Resolution 26-030: authorizing up to $2,000,000,000 in taxable industrial development revenue bonds
• Consent item 9: Energy Management Agreement with Rainbow Energy Marketing Corp. for $3,472,647
• Consent item 2: $2,500,000 design-build for Cassell Park Elementary and Mill Creek Elementary sidewalk projects
• Ordinance 26-020: prohibiting sale of certain intoxicating kratom derivatives and restricting sales to age 21+
• Ordinance 26-029: rezoning city-owned properties near Truman Road, Noland Road, and Lexington Avenue from C-2 and I-1 to Historic Square (HSQ) district

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission will discuss and potentially decide on tree selections for the Truman Connect project, along with updates on the Mayor's Christmas Tree and Legacy Tree. They will also consider participation in the Uptown Garden Faire. The meeting includes approval of March 11 minutes and general tree talk.

• Truman Connect - Tree Selections
• Mayor's Christmas Tree update
• Legacy Tree Update
• Uptown Garden Faire discussion
• Approval of March 11, 2026 meeting minutes

The Independence Tree Commission approved the March 11, 2026 meeting minutes. Members discussed and settled the landscape plan for Truman Connect tree selections. The Mayor's Christmas Tree has been relocated to Hiram Young Park. The Uptown Garden Faire is scheduled for April 25 with tree giveaways and raffles.

• Approved March 11, 2026 meeting minutes
• Settled landscape plan for Truman Connect tree selections

Advisory Committee Meetings

The committee will review the January 28, 2026, meeting minutes and discuss the financial dashboard. City staff are also scheduled to give a spring presentation to the Council.

• Approval of January 28, 2026, meeting minutes
• Financial dashboard discussion
• Spring presentation to Council

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Council will consider a recommendation on an amended Public Arts Policy and receive an update on the 1% for the Arts program related to fire station projects. The council will also discuss a temporary art solution and a permanent art plan for the Independence Municipal Commons.

• Consider recommendation on amended Public Arts Policy
• Update on 1% for the Arts relating to Fire Station Projects
• Discussion of temporary art solution and permanent art at Independence Municipal Commons
• Approval of minutes from January 6, 2026

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee meets to review emergency response performance from AMR and Fire departments, receive reports from the Medical Director, Centerpoint, IPD, and the Communication Center, and discuss regional preparedness. An executive session is planned for confidential health proceedings.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• Regional emergency preparedness report
• ARCH Co-Responder Program update
• Executive session for nonjudicial mental or physical health proceedings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee met virtually and approved the previous meeting minutes. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates on TB cases, flu decline, response times, and preparations for the World Cup. The committee adjourned without voting on any policy or contract items.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)