Independence public meetings in 2025

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will discuss and vote on the cost of a culture and language course for the 2026 student exchange program. Two options are presented: a primary program by Tracie's Program costing $750, and a free supplementary program led by Miho Kawashita from the Japan Outreach Initiative.

• Vote on Tracie's Program at $750 for language and culture instruction
• Free supplementary program by Japan Outreach Initiative to complement Tracie's instruction

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee will convene via Microsoft Teams to review meeting minutes, receive tourism updates, and discuss committee leadership and structure.

• Approval of September 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Tourism update from Visit Independence
• City and FIFA updates
• Committee leadership and structure update

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will hear reports from staff on October 2025 financials, the AMI project manager status, partnerships with Independence Power Partners, and an update on the recent Independence Boil Water Advisory. No formal votes are scheduled; the meeting consists of informational items and board member comments.

• Questions on October 2025 utility financial reports
• Update on AMI Project Manager
• Update on Partnerships with Independence Power Partners
• Update on Independence Boil Water Advisory
• Updates on IMC move and IPL governance

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Case 25-999-13, a variance request to commercial fence requirements at 2730 S. Jackson Circle. The board will also consider approval of minutes from September 18, 2025.

• Public hearing for Case 25-999-13 – Variance to commercial fence requirements at 2730 S. Jackson Circle
• Approval of minutes from September 18, 2025

Audit and Finance Committee

The Audit and Finance Committee will hold a public hearing on a 5-year Tax Increment Financing (TIF) review. The committee also will discuss an update on risk management workers' compensation, review monthly financials, and consider indexing the procurement policy for inflation.

• Public hearing on 5-year TIF review
• Risk management workers' compensation update
• Monthly financials update
• Procurement policy indexing for inflation
• Finance director report

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold its regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. in the Council Chambers. The agenda consists of a welcome and an informational discussion on IPL governance. The Council may enter a closed executive session on matters such as litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations, as allowed by Missouri law.

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee is meeting to review financial statements and reports from the Finance Department and CBiz. The body will also receive updates from Cigna and the HR department regarding wellness activities.

• Financial statement presented 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 presented by Selena Good

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will meet to discuss and select a nominee for the Martin Luther King Jr. Award under old business. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• MLK Award nomination and selection

Special Meetings

This is a procedural meeting of the Animal Welfare Committee. The agenda includes approval of minutes, data review, and subcommittee reports. No specific ordinances, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

• Data review of animal welfare statistics
• Subcommittee reports on ongoing activities

Council Meetings

The City Council voted 7-0 to approve ordinances establishing the Wally's Tax Increment Financing Plan and issuing up to $52,050,000 in industrial development revenue bonds. Consent agenda items include purchase orders totaling over $4.2 million for power plant repairs, a fire pumper, a water treatment plant building, and demolition of City Hall. Public hearings were held and approved for rezoning at 19405 E. 40th Street Court S and liquor licenses for Fringe Beerworks and Bleu House Bistro.

• Approved $2,015,015 purchase order to GE Vernova for J-2 substation turbine inspection
• Approved $873,100 purchase of a Precision/Spartan fire pumper
• Approved $569,336 for design/construction of maintenance building at Courtney Bend Water Treatment Plant
• Approved $425,000 purchase order to Allied Power Group for turbine rotor repair
• Approved ordinances for Wally's TIF plan and up to $52,050,000 in bonds

Advisory Committee Meetings

The commission’s agenda includes a discussion of the MLK Award and a look‑ahead to 2026. These items are scheduled for open discussion and no decisions are noted in the agenda.

• MLK Award discussion (old business)
• Look ahead to 2026 (new business)
• Open discussion

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The commission will approve the minutes from its October 2, 2025 meeting. It will receive an update on the sustainability award for a local business or individual. The planned Bike Ride of Historic Places is being postponed to 2026. The commission will also consider its priorities for 2025.

• Approve October 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on sustainability award for local business or individual
• Postpone Bike Ride of Historic Places to 2026
• Discuss 2025 Commission priorities

The commission approved the November meeting minutes. The planned Bike Ride of Historic Places was postponed until spring 2026. Members agreed to create a subcommittee to explore a partnership with KC Can Compost and consider a small‑scale trial. The next commission meeting was scheduled for January 15, 2026.

• Approved November meeting minutes (no vote tally provided)
• Postponed Bike Ride of Historic Places to spring 2026
• Formed subcommittee to study KC Can Compost partnership
• Scheduled next Sustainability Commission meeting for Jan 15, 2026

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission will meet to discuss an update on the Winner Road Project. The body will also conduct a year-end review and discuss a holiday party.

• Winner Road Project update

Public Hearings

The Independence Planning Commission meeting scheduled for December 9, 2025, has been cancelled. The next meeting is set for January 13, 2026.

• Meeting cancelled
• Next meeting scheduled for January 13, 2026

The Independence Planning Commission meeting scheduled for December 9, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered, and no decisions were approved, denied, or tabled. The next meeting is set for January 13, 2026.

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold full public hearings on the Wally’s Tax Increment Financing Plan, including the designation of a redevelopment area and the selection of a developer. It will also consider an ordinance to approve an industrial development project and to authorize the city to issue taxable industrial development revenue bonds not to exceed $52,050,000. Additional items include a first‑reading ordinance to form the Wally’s Transportation Development District and a municipal court report for November 2025.

• Public hearing to approve the Wally’s Tax Increment Financing Plan ordinance (full hearing)
• Public hearing to approve an industrial development project and authorize bonds up to $52,050,000
• First‑reading ordinance supporting formation of the Wally’s Transportation Development District and a cooperative agreement
• Municipal Court Report for November 2025 (information only)

The City Council held public hearings on the Wally's Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Plan and an associated industrial development project. Ordinances related to the TIF plan, redevelopment district, and bond authorization were read for the first time, but no vote tallies or final approvals were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m.

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council will hold a study session to receive three presentations: the Mid-Continent Library's plan for the property at 111 E. Maple Ave., an update on the Eastgate development project, and an update on the expansion of the Dogwood Plant. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Mid-Continent Library's plan for the property at 111 E. Maple Ave.
• Eastgate development update
• Expansion of Dogwood Plant update

The December 8, 2025 council meeting was a study session featuring presentations on the Mid-Continent Library relocation, the proposed Nebius data center and power partnership, and the Dogwood plant expansion. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the council only received updates and information.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Advisory Board of Health will meet virtually to discuss updates from the health department, including budget and funding, a functions/services comparison, and accreditation status. The board will also consider vacancies and new business. The meeting is primarily informational and procedural.

• Health department budget and funding update
• Functions and services comparison
• Accreditation update
• Board vacancies
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

The Advisory Board approved the meeting minutes unanimously at 6:01 PM. The board also approved, by unanimous vote, the creation of a subcommittee to draft a letter to the City Council about health department funding and a request for an external study. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved formation of subcommittee to draft letter (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The Independence Emergency Medical Services Committee will review emergency responses from AMR and the Fire Department, receive updates from the CenterPoint and IPD communication centers, and consider an executive session for mental health proceedings.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of Fire emergency responses
• CenterPoint updates
• IPD & Communication Center report
• Executive session for mental health proceedings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the meeting minutes with unanimous support and then adjourned the meeting, also by unanimous vote. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved a resolution creating temporary short-term rental regulations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They also authorized a $2.6 million contract for the Truman Connected Phase 1 project and approved multiple rezonings converting high-density and industrial zones to residential. Consent agenda items included purchases for police dispatch consoles and substation transformer replacements. Several public hearings were held for rezonings and special use permits.

• Approval of $2,616,572.60 contract for Truman Connected Phase 1 Project (No. 112102)
• Resolution establishing temporary Short Term Rental regulations for 2026 FIFA World Cup (Res. No. 7189)
• Rezoning from R-30 to R-6/PUD near Farmer, Nettleton, Spring, and Main (Ord. No. 19754)
• Rezoning from I-1 to R-12 at 1116 S. Woodland Avenue and 1506 W. 23rd Street (Ord. No. 19756)
• Approval of $419,697 purchase order for four police dispatch consoles

The Independence City Council approved several large purchase orders and construction contracts, authorizing over $3.5 million in spending. It also passed three rezoning ordinances affecting dozens of properties, including a 56‑address residential conversion. All actions were adopted with recorded vote tallies.

• Approved $128,928 purchase order to Trench Limited for transformer replacements (6‑0)
• Approved $265,000 expenditure with ESI Contracting Corp for rock (6‑0)
• Approved construction contract up to $2,616,572.60 with JM Fahey Construction for Truman Connected Phase 1 (6‑0)
• Approved $735,593.63 change order with Brotcke Well and Pump, Inc. for water‑well repairs (6‑0)
• Approved $419,697 purchase order to Motorola for four police dispatch consoles (6‑0)
• Approved rezoning ordinance 25‑112 for 56 properties north of Farmer Street (5‑1)
• Approved rezoning ordinance 25‑113 for properties along Dodgion Avenue (6‑0)
• Approved rezoning ordinance 25‑114 converting an industrial site to two‑family residential (6‑0)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Tax Increment Financing Commission will hold a continued public hearing on Wally’s Tax Increment Financing Plan, reviewing additional exhibits, presentations, and public comments. After the hearing, the commission will consider a resolution that recommends the City Council approve the TIF plan, designate the redevelopment area, label blighted parcels, approve the redevelopment project, and name the developer of record.

• Continued public hearing on Wally’s Tax Increment Financing Plan (additional exhibits, presentations, public comments)
• Resolution recommending City Council approve the TIF plan, redevelopment area, blight designation, redevelopment project, and developer of record

The commission approved the minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting with a 10‑0 vote. It then approved a resolution recommending the TIF plan, the redevelopment area, blight designation, the redevelopment project, and the developer of record to the City Council, also by a 10‑0 vote. No public comments were received.

• Approved November 12, 2025 meeting minutes (10-0)
• Approved resolution recommending TIF plan and related approvals (10-0)

Council Meetings

The City Council is meeting in a closed executive session. The session is limited to discussions regarding real estate and documents related to negotiated contracts.

• Discussion of real estate matters
• Review of documents related to negotiated contracts

Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss a resolution to temporarily disable security badge access for council members during non-business hours on the night before candidate application packet submissions. Staff will provide a status update on City 7. No other substantive actions are scheduled; citizen requests are not eligible for this study session.

• Resolution to disable council member badge access prior to candidate packet submission
• Staff report on Status of City 7
• Boards and Commissions report for information only

Councilmember Stewart presented a resolution to temporarily disable security badge access for current council members during non‑business hours on the night before candidate application packet submission, citing charter accountability requirements. No vote or approval was recorded. No citizen requests were presented. Staff reported on City7 viewership, equipment needs, and cost estimates. The meeting adjourned without any decisions.

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will approve minutes from its August 21 and September 18, 2025 meetings. It will receive reports on utility finances, municipal services, and several IPL updates. The board will also consider the proposed governance changes for IPL presented by Mr. McLuckie.

• Approve minutes of August 21, 2025 meeting
• Approve minutes of September 18, 2025 meeting
• Review questions on September 2025 utility financial reports
• Receive IPL updates: AMI Project Manager, partnerships with Independence Power Partners, SPP consolidated planning process, and September statistical charts
• Consider IPL proposed governance changes (Mr. McLuckie)

Special Meetings

The council will hold a hybrid meeting to introduce and discuss community needs related to the CDBG and HOME programs. Participants will review the consolidated plan for housing and community needs and decide on follow‑up actions. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Introduction
• Discussion on community needs
• Follow up and next steps

Staff presented a discussion on community needs, but no public attended. After a 15‑minute wait, the meeting was adjourned with no actions taken.

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for November 20, 2025, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 18, 2025.

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for November 20, 2025 was cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be on December 18, 2025. No decisions were made.

Special Meetings

The Southwest Independence 353 Board of Directors holds a special meeting to consider a motion on the review of tax abatement for a property at 3609 Blue Ridge Blvd. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from October 2024 and setting the next meeting date.

• Discussion and motion on review of tax abatement for property at 3609 Blue Ridge Blvd.

Special Meetings

This is a special public meeting of the City of Independence to discuss fair housing and housing discrimination as part of the Consolidated Plan for CDBG and HOME programs. The agenda includes an introduction, a discussion on fair housing/housing discrimination, and follow-up on next steps. No final decisions are being made; it is a participation and discussion session.

• Discussion on fair housing and housing discrimination
• Follow-up and next steps for the Consolidated Plan process
• Hybrid meeting at Mid-Continent Public Library - North Branch (317 West 24 Highway) and via Microsoft Teams

The meeting reviewed fair‑housing laws, identified local discrimination challenges, and outlined next steps for drafting the Consolidated Plan and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. No formal approvals or votes were taken; the session was informational and preparatory.

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee holds a special meeting to approve minutes, review financial statements from the Finance Department and CBiz, receive an update from CIGNA, and discuss HR updates and wellness activities. New business includes a benefit consultant contact. The next meeting is set for December 16, 2025.

• Financial statement presented by Finance Department
• Update from CIGNA presented by Kevin Kueker and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• HR update presented by Bethany Dickey
• New business: Benefit Consultant Contact

The Stay Well Committee reviewed October 2025 financial and health reports and introduced a new supplemental health representative. A motion was made to recommend that the City Manager enter into a contract with CBiz and keep the current percentage splits with HR, Staywell, and Finance; the minutes do not record a vote outcome. No other decisions were recorded.

• Motion to recommend contract with CBiz and maintain current percentage splits (outcome not recorded)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Council will consider old and new business, including discussion of the Truman Connected Phase 1 Art project. No voting or action items are specified on the agenda beyond procedural approvals.

• Discussion of Truman Connected Phase 1 Art under new business

The council discussed the Truman Connected Phase 1 art project, including pad size, placement, and the use of rental art. No formal vote was taken. Municipal Services Director Mike Jackson said the department will revise the plans and bring them to the Arts Council at its next meeting.

• Municipal Services to update Truman Connected Phase 1 art plans and present them at the next Arts Council meeting (no vote recorded)

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings and decide on two applications to operate short-term rentals at 3214 S. Hawthorne Ave and 21401 E. Eureka Road. The consent agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Case 25-400-23 – Short-Term Rental – 3214 S. Hawthorne Ave
• Case 25-400-24 – Short-Term Rental – 21401 E. Eureka Road

The commission approved the Consent Agenda with a 6‑0 vote. It also approved a short‑term rental request for 3214 S. Hawthorne Ave and another for 21401 E. Eureka Road, each by a unanimous 6‑0 vote. No public comments were recorded on the second rental case.

• Approved Consent Agenda (minutes) – Yes 6, No 0, Abstained 0
• Approved short‑term rental at 3214 S. Hawthorne Ave – Yes 6, No 0, Abstained 0
• Approved short‑term rental at 21401 E. Eureka Road – Yes 6, No 0, Abstained 0

Special Meetings

This is a special meeting of the Independence City Council to discuss community needs as part of the Consolidated Plan for CDBG and HOME programs. The agenda includes an introduction, open discussion on housing and community needs, and follow-up next steps. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; it is a discussion-only session.

• Discussion on community needs for CDBG and HOME program planning
• Consolidated Plan general planning and public participation
• Follow-up and next steps for housing and community needs assessment

The council held a hybrid meeting to discuss community needs for the upcoming five‑year CDBG and HOME Consolidated Plan. Participants identified top priorities: affordable housing, domestic‑violence and mental‑health services, basic needs, homelessness, and public transportation. No formal approvals or votes were recorded; the meeting concluded with a list of next steps to incorporate the priorities into the plan.

Special Meetings

The City Council is convening a closed executive session under state law to discuss documents related to a negotiated contract. No open-session business is scheduled; the meeting is solely procedural for the closed session.

• Closed executive session per RSMo. 610.021(12) for contract-related documents

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council authorized several major contracts, including a $6,227,548.30 asphalt overlay for the FY 26 GO Bond project and a $4,311,948 fire station construction agreement. It also approved design services for the Winner Road Bridge and a change order for the Rock Creek Trail pedestrian bridge. In addition, the council adopted resolutions, ordinances and held a public hearing on a taxable industrial development bond for a power generation project.

• Approved a construction contract up to $6,227,548.30 with Superior Bowen Asphalt Co., LLC for the FY 26 GO Bond Asphalt Overlay Project
• Approved a Guaranteed Maximum Price Agreement of $4,311,948 with Turner Construction Company for Independence Fire Station #8
• Authorized a design services contract up to $463,585 with Kimley‑Horn and Associates for the Winner Road Bridge over CPKC Railway
• Approved Change Order #1 to Walter P Moore for $14,660, raising the Rock Creek Trail pedestrian bridge design total to $113,375
• Authorized a construction contract up to $495,627 with MegaKC Corporation to replace two pumps at the Rock Creek Pump Station

The Independence City Council approved a series of contracts and resolutions, including a $6,227,548.30 construction contract for the FY 26 GO Bond Asphalt Overlay Project. Other approvals covered bridge design services, a fire‑station construction agreement, and various utility and park projects. All items were adopted unanimously.

• Approved Change Order #1 to Purchase Order 25001038 for Rock Creek Trail bridge design, $14,660 (7‑0)
• Approved design services contract for Winner Road Bridge, up to $463,585 (unanimous)
• Approved $138,657.06 payment to Mid‑America Regional Council for hazardous‑waste agreement (7‑0)
• Approved FY 26 GO Bond Asphalt Overlay contract, up to $6,227,548.30 (7‑0)
• Approved contract for two replacement pumps at Rock Creek Pump Station, up to $495,627 (7‑0)
• Approved natural‑gas supply management contract with Symmetry Energy Solutions (7‑0)
• Approved Guaranteed Maximum Price Agreement for Fire Station #8, $4,311,948 (7‑0)
• Approved Change Order #1 for Independence Justice Center project, $737,026.76 (7‑0)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will approve the minutes from its October 2, 2025 meeting. It will provide an update on the local sustainability award and share related information links. The planned Bike Ride of Historic Places is being postponed to 2026. New business includes setting the commission’s priorities for 2025.

• Approve October 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on sustainability award (links provided)
• Postpone Bike Ride of Historic Places to 2026
• Discuss 2025 Commission priorities

The Sustainability Commission approved the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes. It postponed the Bike Ride of Historic Places to 2026. The commission agreed to form a subcommittee to explore a compost partnership with KC Can Compost and to prepare a recommendation for City Council. The next meeting was scheduled for December 10, 2025.

• Approved October 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed Bike Ride of Historic Places to 2026
• Agreed to form subcommittee (Carly, Maureen, Madalyn) to study compost partnership with KC Can Compost
• Set next meeting for Dec 10, 2025 at 5:00 PM

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Tax Increment Financing Commission will hold a public hearing on Wally's Tax Increment Financing Plan, including exhibit submissions, presentations, and public comments. After the hearing, the commission will consider a resolution recommending that the City Council approve the plan, designate the redevelopment area, designate blight within that area, and approve the developer of record. The meeting also includes routine items such as officer elections and approval of minutes.

• Public hearing for Wally's Tax Increment Financing Plan
• Submission of exhibits for the TIF plan
• Presentations regarding the TIF plan
• Resolution recommending approval of the TIF plan and redevelopment area
• Designation of blight within the redevelopment area

The commission elected Allie Zaroor as Chair and Ron Bruch as Vice‑Chair, each unanimously approved. The October 23, 2024 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. A motion to continue the public hearing on the Wally’s Tax Increment Financing plan to November 24, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. was also approved unanimously.

• Allie Zaroor appointed Chair (10‑0‑0)
• Ron Bruch appointed Vice‑Chair (10‑0‑0)
• October 23, 2024 minutes approved (10‑0‑0)
• Public hearing on Wally’s TIF continued to Nov 24, 2025 (10‑0‑0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission will meet to approve minutes from October and discuss the 'Truman Connected' project with the City Engineer. The meeting will also include a sign-up for a holiday party.

• Approval of October 8, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on 'Truman Connected' project
• Holiday party sign-up
• Meeting at Vaile Mansion (1500 N Liberty)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will review prior minutes, discuss the recent festival, set tentative dates for the 2026 exchange, receive an update on interview status, and consider a proposal to connect Vanhorn AP language students with Japanese counterparts. Items from the floor will also be taken.

• Approve prior minutes
• Brief post-festival discussion
• 2026 exchange dates discussion
• Interview status update
• Vanhorn student AP language communication idea proposal

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. It also passed a motion empowering the adult chaperone interview committee to make the final decision on the 2026 exchange chaperone. Both motions received unanimous support.

• Approved prior minutes (unanimous)
• Empowered adult chaperone interview committee to decide 2026 exchange chaperone (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The Independence City Council will convene in a closed executive session to discuss real estate, litigation, and personnel matters.

• Closed Executive Session: Real estate, litigation, and personnel
• Meeting location: Conference Room A, 111 E. Maple Ave.

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session with a presentation on homelessness prevention and mitigation. The council will also receive a boards and commissions report. The agenda notes the council may convene a closed executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations.

• Presentation on homelessness prevention and mitigation
• Boards and commissions report
• Possible closed executive session under multiple statutory exceptions

On November 10, 2025, the Independence City Council met for a study session on homelessness. Presentations were given by Councilmember McCandless and Amber Bauer, outlining local unsheltered counts, risk factors, and existing service programs. The meeting was informational only and did not result in any votes, approvals, or other formal actions.

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Park Commission will hold an election for Vice‑Chair. Staff will present reports on the budget, parks facilities, recreation services, promotions, and the National Frontier Trails Museum. The commission will review the upcoming Parks and Recreation Master Plan workshop scheduled for November 17, 2025. The meeting concludes with scheduling the next session for February 5, 2026.

• Election of Vice‑Chair
• Staff budget report
• Staff reports on parks facilities, recreation services, promotions, and National Frontier Trails Museum
• Discussion of Parks and Recreation Master Plan workshop (Nov. 17, 2025)
• Adjournment and scheduling of next meeting (Feb. 5, 2026)

The Independence Park Commission approved the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners elected Jana Evans as the commission’s vice‑chair. The meeting was adjourned at 5:41 pm.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (motion by Baird, second by Martin)
• Elected Jana Evans as vice‑chair

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee of Independence, Missouri, will hold a virtual special meeting on November 4, 2025. The agenda includes reviews of AMR and fire emergency responses, reports from the Health Department and Medical Director, and updates from Centerpoint, IPD, and regional preparedness. The committee may also enter executive session to discuss nonjudicial health proceedings under state law.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of Fire emergency responses
• Medical Director Report
• COI Health Department report
• Executive session for health proceedings (RSMo. 610.021(5))

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the meeting minutes as written after a motion by Paul Lininger and a second by Craig DuPlantis. The motion was approved by all present. The committee then adjourned after a motion by Paul Lininger, seconded by Craig DuPlantis, which was also approved by all present. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approve meeting minutes (unanimous approval)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous approval)

Council Meetings

The City Council approved a resolution (25-797) amending Resolution No. 6983 to remove the requirement that core governance functions be preserved on the Historic Square, authorize city meetings at the Independence Municipal Commons, and align with the Reshaping the Square Master Redevelopment Plan. The council also approved multiple purchase orders and contracts, including a $606,939.48 subscription for Tyler Munis ERP software and a $173,000 fence installation for Substation M. Several ordinances passed on second reading, including one adding property to the Noland Road Community Improvement District and another adopting amendments to the FY 2025-2026 budget.

• Resolution 25-797 amends Historic Square governance, allowing city meetings at Municipal Commons and aligning with Reshaping the Square Master Redevelopment Plan (passed 4-2)
• Purchase order to Tyler Technologies for $606,939.48 for annual ERP software subscription (approved)
• Contract with Linaweaver Construction for $120,658 for Liberty Street Sidewalk & Structural Repairs (approved)
• Change Orders #5 and #6 on Winner Rd Complete Streets contract with Kimley-Horn totaling $1,923,466 (approved)
• Ordinance 25-097 approving addition of property to Noland Road Community Improvement District (passed 5-1)

The council approved a $1,923,466 change order package for the Winner Road Complete Streets Project. It also approved several procurement actions, including a $606,939.48 purchase for ERP software and a $173,000 fence contract for Substation M. An ordinance adding property to the Noland Road Community Improvement District passed 5‑1, and a $8,000 MoDOT grant for police overtime was accepted unanimously. The $102,932 purchase order for Benton Park playground equipment was postponed to the November 17 meeting.

• Approved $1,923,466 change orders for Winner Rd Complete Streets Project (Approved)
• Approved $606,939.48 purchase order to Tyler Technologies for ERP software (Approved)
• Approved $173,000 purchase order to Guier Fence Company for Substation M fencing (Approved)
• Approved $120,658 contract with Linaweaver Construction for Liberty Street sidewalks (Approved)
• Approved $122,750 purchase order to Toth & Associates for transmission line drawings (Approved)
• Ordinance adding property to Noland Road Community Improvement District passed 5‑1 (Approved)
• Ordinance accepting $8,000 MoDOT grant for police overtime passed 6‑0 (Approved)
• Postponed $102,932 purchase order for Benton Park playground equipment to Nov 17 (6‑0)

Special Meetings

The Independence Stay Well Committee will meet to approve minutes, review financial statements, and discuss 2026 Stop-Loss insurance coverage. The group will also consider alternate meeting dates for November and December.

• Approval of October 2025 minutes
• Review of financial statements from Finance Department and CBiz
• 2026 Stop-Loss insurance proposal
• Discussion of alternate meeting dates for November and December
• Update on wellness activities

The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes. The next meeting was set for November 18, 2025 at 2:00 pm in IUC room 117, and the following meeting for December 16, 2025 at the same time and location. No vote tallies were recorded for these actions.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (no vote recorded)
• Scheduled next meeting for Nov 18, 2025, 2:00 pm, IUC room 117
• Scheduled following meeting for Dec 16, 2025, 2:00 pm, IUC room 117

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and review old and new business. The agenda includes a discussion on the MLK Award and an overview of a skateboard competition event.

• Approval of September 11 and September 16, 2025 minutes
• Skateboard competition event overview
• MLK Award discussion

The Human Relations Commission approved the September 11 and September 16, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a 5‑0 vote. Chair Helen Hurley announced she will create a subcommittee for the 2026 skateboard competition, naming Nina Woodson-Falls, Lupe Moe and Mara Bradford. Members discussed tightening criteria for the Martin Luther King Jr. award and public nominations, with John Mayfield tasked to publicize the process.

• Approved September 11 & September 16, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)
• Form subcommittee for 2026 skateboard competition (planned)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone 19405 E. 40th Street Ct S from R-6 (Single Family Residential) to O-1 (Office Residential). They will also consider five separate requests to operate short-term rentals at properties on Whitney Ave, Strode Rd, Ash Ave, Delaware St, and 38th Street S. The consent agenda includes approval of the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Public hearing: Rezoning at 19405 E. 40th Street Ct S from R-6 to O-1
• Short-term rental request at 2804 S. Whitney Ave
• Short-term rental request at 23601 E. Strode Rd
• Short-term rental request at 1231 S. Ash Ave
• Short-term rental request at 802 N. Delaware St

The commission unanimously approved its consent agenda. It then approved the rezoning request for 19405 E. 40th Street Court South, changing the zoning from R‑6 to O‑1. The commission also unanimously approved five short‑term‑rental permit applications at 2804 S. Whitney Ave, 23601 E. Strode Rd, 1231 S. Ash Ave, 802 N. Delaware St, and 16100 E. 38th Street S. No public comments were received on any item.

• Approved Consent Agenda (6-0-0)
• Approved rezoning of 19405 E. 40th St Ct S to O‑1 (6-0-0)
• Approved short‑term‑rental permit at 2804 S. Whitney Ave (6-0-0)
• Approved short‑term‑rental permit at 23601 E. Strode Rd (6-0-0)
• Approved short‑term‑rental permit at 1231 S. Ash Ave (6-0-0)
• Approved short‑term‑rental permit at 802 N. Delaware St (6-0-0)
• Approved short‑term‑rental permit at 16100 E. 38th St S (6-0-0)

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to receive a legislative update and discuss an amendment to the IPL Governance Charter. The meeting may include a closed executive session for legal, personnel, contract, real estate, or labor matters.

• Legislative Update presentation
• IPL Governance Charter Amendment presentation

The Independence City Council met in a study session on Oct. 27, 2025. Staff presented a legislative update that will be addressed by a resolution on the Nov. 17 agenda. The council also reviewed a proposed amendment to the city charter governing the Independent Power and Light (IPL) utility. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal decisions were recorded.

Council Meetings

This special meeting focuses on the City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee's recommendation for a firm to conduct the city manager search. The council will receive the recommendation as information only. No final decision is scheduled at this meeting.

• City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee recommendation for a recruitment firm

The City Council voted to offer a contract to Strategic Government Resources (SGR) for city manager recruitment. Councilmember McCandless moved the action and Councilmember Perkins seconded. The motion passed with votes in favor from Councilmembers Fears, Perkins, Stewart, McCandless, Wiley, and Vaught and no votes against.

• Approved offering contract to Strategic Government Resources (SGR) (6-0)

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved contracts for police staffing, detention housing, and bridge design, along with ordinances regarding community gardens, liquor sales, and budget amendments. The meeting also included a public hearing on a community improvement district.

• Contract with Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity for minor home repairs (up to $401,953.75)
• Contract with Johnson County Sheriff's Office for detention housing (up to $600,000)
• Contract with Alfred Benesch & Company for bridge design (up to $825,603)
• Ordinance exempting city from extended liquor sales during 2026 FIFA World Cup
• Ordinance amending code to allow electronic message signs in ARTS District

The council unanimously approved several contracts—including a $401,953 CDBG Minor Home Repair Program, a $600,000 detention housing contract, a $274,700 interim police chief contract, and an $825,603 bridge design contract for three Rock Creek bridges. It also passed ordinances amending community garden use, allowing electronic signs in the Arts District, and authorizing a FIFA World Cup liquor exemption. All votes were 7‑0 except the procurement policy amendment, which failed 1‑6.

• Consent agenda passed (7-0)
• Approved $401,953.75 CDBG Minor Home Repair Program contract (7-0)
• Approved $600,000 detention housing contract with Johnson County Sheriff's Office (7-0)
• Approved $274,700 interim police chief contract (7-0)
• Approved $825,603 bridge design contract for three Rock Creek bridges (7-0)
• Approved $234,701.88 water plant dual cage drive contract (7-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending community garden use (7-0)
• Adopted ordinance allowing electronic signs in Arts District (7-0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee will meet to discuss interviews held with recruitment firms. The meeting is scheduled for October 17, 2025, at 9:30 AM in Conference Room A at 111 E. Maple Ave. The City Council may convene in an Executive Session after the meeting for matters of contracts.

• Discussion of interviews with recruitment firms
• Potential Executive Session for contract matters
• Meeting at 111 E. Maple Ave., Third Floor, Conference Room A

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will review financial and statistical reports from August 2025. Members will discuss a recommendation to establish a Citizens Advisory Council for IPL Governance. The meeting also includes updates on the AMI Project Manager and the IMC move.

• Recommendation to create a Citizens Advisory Council for IPL Governance
• August 2025 Utility Financial Reports
• August 2025 IPL Statistical Charts
• Update on AMI Project Manager
• Update on IMC Move

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for October 16, 2025, has been cancelled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2025.

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for October 16, 2025 was cancelled. No decisions, approvals, or denials were made. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for November 20, 2025.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee will interview two firms to assist in finding a new city manager. The committee will also discuss the possibility of a closed executive session.

• Interview of Colin Baenziger Associates
• Interview of Strategic Government Resources (SGR)
• Potential executive session for contract matters

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on five items, including three rezoning requests and two special use permits. The most significant is a proposal to rezone the North Square area from high-density residential to single-family residential. Other rezoning requests target properties along Dodgion Avenue and two industrial sites. Special use permits are sought for a bed & breakfast and a light equipment sales business.

• Case 25-100-18: Rezone North Square (bounded by Farmer, Nettleton, Spring, Main) from R-30 to R-6 and R-6/PUD
• Case 25-100-19: Rezone properties on Dodgion Avenue between College Ave and US 24 from commercial to R-6 and R-6/PUD
• Case 25-100-20: Rezone 1116 S Woodland Ave and 1506 W 23rd Street from Industrial to R-12
• Case 25-200-10: Special use permit for a bed & breakfast at 711 N Arapaho Street
• Case 25-200-11: Special use permit for light equipment sales at 1112 Dickinson Road

The Independence Planning Commission approved the consent agenda and moved Case 25‑310‑02 to the regular agenda. It unanimously approved three rezoning requests—North Square, North Dodgion, and the Woodland/23rd properties—and granted two special‑use permits for a bed‑and‑breakfast and a light‑equipment sales business. All motions passed with a 7‑yes, 0‑no, 0‑abstain vote.

• Approved Consent Agenda and pulled Case 25-310-02 (7-0-0)
• Approved rezoning North Square (Case 25-100-18) to R-6/R-6PUD (7-0-0)
• Approved rezoning North Dodgion (Case 25-100-19) as amended to R-6/R-6PUD (7-0-0)
• Approved rezoning 1116 S Woodland Ave & 1506 W 23rd St (Case 25-100-20) to R-12 (7-0-0)
• Approved special‑use permit for Bed & Breakfast at 711 N Arapaho St (Case 25-200-10) (7-0-0)
• Approved special‑use permit for light equipment sales at 1112 Dickinson Rd (Case 25-200-11) (7-0-0)

Special Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee is meeting to receive updates on tourism from Visit Independence, a food truck policy, and FIFA developments. The committee will also vote to approve minutes from its September 16, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes from September 16, 2025
• Tourism update from Visit Independence
• City update on Food Truck Policy

Council Meetings

The council will consider a resolution amending Resolution No. 6983 to remove the historic square requirement for core government functions and to allow public meetings, including council sessions, at the Independence Municipal Commons. The amendment aligns with the Reshaping the Square Master Redevelopment Plan. No citizen requests are eligible for action. Several semi‑annual committee reports will be presented for information only.

• Resolution amending Resolution No. 6983 to permit meetings at Independence Municipal Commons
• Semi‑annual report of the Independence Park Commission
• Semi‑annual report of the Stormwater Oversight Committee
• Semi‑annual report of the Street Improvements Oversight Committee
• Semi‑annual report of the Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee

The council adopted a resolution amending Resolution No. 6983 to remove the requirement that meetings be held on the Historic Square and to authorize all council, board, and commission meetings at the Independence Municipal Commons. The amendment will be offered at the next meeting. Councilmembers discussed the change but no vote tally was recorded in the minutes.

• Adopted resolution to move council and commission meetings to Independence Municipal Commons (outcome: approved, no vote tally recorded)

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and conduct a public hearing. The board is discussing proposed changes to Article IV of the City of Independence Personnel Policies & Procedures Manual regarding personal business leave.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to Article IV (Personal Business Leave) of the Personnel Policies & Procedures Manual

The Personnel Board approved the September 12, 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously voted to recommend proposed changes to Article IV of the Personal Business Leave section of the City of Independence Personnel Policies & Procedures Manual to the City Council. The board also set the next meeting for November 14, 2025 and adjourned the session.

• Approved September 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended changes to Article IV personal business leave policy to council (unanimous)
• Scheduled next Personnel Board meeting for November 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 10:03 a.m. (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission will hear an update on Legacy Trees and discuss two new business items: the Truman Connected Plan presented by Councilmember John Perkins, and a landscape plan for Vaile Mansion. The meeting also includes a 'Tree Talk' segment. No decisions are recorded on the agenda; items are listed for discussion.

• Legacy Trees - Update
• Truman Connected Plan - Councilmember John Perkins
• Landscape Plan - Vaile Mansion
• Tree Talk education segment
• Next meeting scheduled for November 12, 2025

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss the Uptown Matsuri event. The committee will also discuss the 2026 student exchange.

• Uptown Matsuri discussion
• 2026 student exchange discussion

The committee approved the September meeting minutes. They authorized up to $800 to cover performance fees for dancers and drummers at the Uptown Matsuri festival. They also authorized up to $450 for drinks and concession supplies for the festival, with all approvals made by show of hands.

• Approved September minutes (show of hands)
• Approved up to $800 for performance fees (show of hands)
• Approved up to $450 for drinks and concession supplies (show of hands)

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee will meet virtually to review response data from AMR and the fire department. The body will also receive reports from the Medical Director, the Independence Police Department, and the communication center.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• Centerpoint updates
• ARCH co-responder program update
• Regional emergency preparedness report

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting by unanimous consent. The committee then adjourned the meeting, also by unanimous consent. No other decisions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Council will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss the City of Independence Public Art Policy.

• Approval of July 1, 2025, meeting minutes
• Discussion of the City of Independence Public Art Policy

The council could not approve the July 1, 2025 minutes because a quorum was not present, so approval will be moved to the next meeting. The council discussed the City’s public art policy and agreed to create a subcommittee to consider revisions. Councilmember Wiley suggested the subcommittee, and the council voted unanimously to appoint Callahan as chair with Eppert and Knold as members.

• Postponed approval of July 1, 2025 minutes (no quorum)
• Approved formation of subcommittee to review public art policy; Callahan chair, Eppert & Knold members (unanimous voice vote)

General

The Heritage Commission will consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a residential property and a National Register nomination. The body will also vote on the adoption of updated Historic Preservation Design Guidelines.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for home rehabilitation and additions at 503 North Delaware Avenue
• National Register nomination recommendation for the Englewood Theater
• Adoption of updated Historic Preservation Design Guidelines
• Section 106 review for 3107 South Norton Avenue and 1523 South Arlington Avenue

Special Meetings

The City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee is meeting to discuss applicants for a recruitment firm. The agenda includes a notice that the council may enter a closed executive session regarding personnel, contracts, or legal matters.

• Discussion of recruitment firm applicants

The council voted unanimously to enter a closed executive session to review applicant scores. The committee decided to interview Strategic Government Resources and Colin Baenziger and Associates for the City Manager position. The next interview meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025.

• Motion to go into closed session approved (all ayes, no nays)
• Decided to discuss the top three firms based on proposal scores
• Decided to interview Strategic Government Resources (SGR)
• Decided to interview Colin Baenziger and Associates
• Scheduled next interview meeting for October 14, 2025

Council Meetings

The City Council will vote on several infrastructure contracts and utility rate adjustments. The meeting includes public hearings on rezoning and special use permits, as well as budget amendments for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.

• Construction contract with Louis-Company LLC up to $3,596,546.82 for Crysler Ave. and E. Kentucky Rd. bridges
• Proposed $5 residential and $10 commercial/industrial customer charge increase for Power & Light Department
• Public hearing for rezoning 710 & 720 W Maple Avenue to Single Family Residential
• Public hearing for a Special Use Permit for a gas station at 4023 S. Noland Road
• Water main replacement contract with Abay Construction, Inc. up to $829,206

The Independence City Council approved a series of contracts and ordinances, including a $3.6 M bridge repair contract, a water‑main replacement contract, and a power‑and‑light rate increase. It rezoned 710 & 720 W Maple Avenue to R‑6 single‑family residential (7‑0) and amended the Unified Development Ordinance to relax fuel‑sale/auto‑repair separation rules (7‑0). The council also approved a special‑use permit for a gas station at 4023 S Noland Road (7‑0) and adopted new sanitary‑sewer rates (6‑1).

• Approved $3,596,546.82 bridge construction contract with Louis-Company LLC (7‑0)
• Approved $829,206 water main replacement contract with Abay Construction, Inc. (consent agenda 7‑0)
• Approved Voya Financial recordkeeping contract for retirement plans (5‑2 after amendment)
• Rezoned 710 & 720 W Maple Avenue to R‑6 single‑family residential (7‑0)
• Amended Unified Development Ordinance to allow fuel‑sale/auto‑repair sites within 400 ft of interstate (7‑0)
• Approved special‑use permit for gas station at 4023 S Noland Road (7‑0)
• Adopted new sanitary‑sewer rates ordinance (6‑1)
• Approved Power & Light customer charge increase; amendment to reduce increase rejected (6‑1; amendment 2‑5)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Sustainability Commission will meet to approve minutes from September 11, 2025, receive an update on a sustainability award for a local business or individual, and discuss planning for a Bike Ride of Historic Places tentatively set for October 11, 2025. The commission will also set its 2025 priorities.

• Approval of September 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on Sustainability Award for local business/individual (links provided)
• Discussion of Bike Ride of Historic Places – tentative Oct 11, stops at Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, Bingham Waggoner, Chicago Alton Depot
• Setting 2025 Commission priorities

The commission approved the June 2025 meeting minutes as distributed. The discussion about Prairie Village's composting pilot was added to Old Business for future review. All members were instructed to watch the commission intro video and confirm completion with staff. The next meeting was scheduled for November 13, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

• Approved June 2025 meeting minutes (Osborn, McGraw)
• Added Prairie Village composting pilot discussion to Old Business for later review
• Required all members to watch the commission intro video and confirm with staff
• Scheduled next meeting for Nov 13, 2025 at 5:00 PM

Board of Health

The Independence Advisory Board of Health is meeting virtually to address vacancies, receive a department update, and discuss any new business. The agenda contains only procedural items with no specific proposals, ordinances, or financial decisions listed.

• Consideration of board vacancies
• Department update (no details provided)
• New business (agenda item)

The Independence Advisory Board of Health meeting on October 2, 2025 was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were discussed, and no decisions were made or votes taken.

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Street Improvement Oversight Committee is meeting to review a financial dashboard and prepare a fall presentation for the City Council. No specific projects, contracts, or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Review of financial dashboard by city staff
• Fall presentation to City Council by city staff

The committee accepted the Financial Dashboard after a motion by John Powell. It also approved the Fall presentation that will be given to the City Council. The minutes from the July 24, 2025 meeting were approved. All motions passed.

• Accepted Financial Dashboard (motion passed)
• Approved Fall presentation to Council (motion passed)
• Approved July 24, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Storm Water Control Oversight Committee will hold a routine meeting covering staff reports on finances, maintenance, and capital projects. The main item is the Fall 2025 Committee Report to Council. The committee will also consider approval of the August 6th meeting minutes.

• Staff reports on financial status, maintenance, and capital improvement projects
• Fall 2025 Committee Report to Council
• Approval of August 6th 2025 meeting minutes

The Storm Water Control Oversight Committee approved the minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting. The motion passed with three votes in favor and none against. The committee then moved to adjourn, which also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 6, 2025 minutes (3 Ayes, 0 Nays)
• Adjourned meeting (3 Ayes, 0 Nays)

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The committee will meet to review and accept quarterly reports from the Fire Department and Police Department. These reports cover general operations and specific tax revenues.

• Quarterly Report from Fire Department
• Quarterly Report from Police Department
• Quarterly Use Tax Report from Police Department
• Quarterly Marijuana Tax Report from Police Department
• Quarterly Prop PD Tax Report from Police Department

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee approved the minutes from the July 31, 2025 meeting and unanimously accepted the quarterly reports from both the Fire and Police Departments, including use‑tax, marijuana‑tax, and Prop PD‑tax reports. It also resolved to have city employees construct the Station 1 west side parking lot after external bids were deemed overpriced. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 31, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Fire Department quarterly report (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department quarterly report (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department use‑tax report (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department marijuana‑tax report (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department Prop PD‑tax report (unanimous)
• Decided city workers will build Station 1 west side parking lot after $550,000 bids were rejected
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Audit and Finance Committee

The committee will hear a monthly financial update, review the Santa-Cali-Gon festival, and receive an investment performance review. Old business includes a workers' compensation update from risk management. The meeting is largely routine oversight with no specific dollar amounts or ordinances mentioned.

• Monthly Financials Update
• Santa-Cali-Gon Review
• Investment Performance Review
• Finance Director Report
• Risk Management Work Comp Update

Councilmember Perkins moved to approve the June 4, 2025 minutes, Wiley seconded, and all members present voted in favor. The committee then received updates on monthly finances, the Santa‑Cali‑Gon Days Festival, investment performance, and a risk management work‑comp report, but no votes or actions were taken on those items.

• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee will approve minutes from the previous meeting and hear a financial statement from the Finance Department. Updates will be presented by CIGNA representatives, the HR department, and a wellness activities report. The committee will also discuss an old‑business item, a virtual PT comparison, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Approval of minutes
• Financial statement presented by the Finance Department
• CIGNA update presented by Kevin Kueker and Lisa Phillips
• Virtual PT comparison (old business)
• Wellness activities presented by Selena Good

The Stay Well Committee approved the September 23 minutes (no vote tally recorded). Financial statements for August 2025 were presented, showing net income and losses for various plans. Open enrollment meetings were scheduled for October 15‑16 and the enrollment period was set for October 20‑November 7. The wellness survey deadline was set for October 3.

• Approved September 23 meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct 28, 2025 at 2:00 pm in conference room 117 IUC
• Set open enrollment meeting dates: Oct 15 (IUC 117), Oct 16 (Teams), retiree meeting Oct 22 (PD)
• Established open enrollment period: Oct 20‑Nov 7
• Opened wellness survey until Oct 3, with ticket drawing incentive

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission meeting scheduled for September 23, 2025, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2025.

The Independence Planning Commission meeting scheduled for September 23, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were discussed. The next meeting is set for October 14, 2025.

Council Meetings

This is a city council study session, primarily for presentations and discussion. The council will hear a presentation on the Noland Fashion Square redevelopment and a presentation sponsored by Councilmember Fears. Mayor Rowland has sponsored a discussion on municipal court facilities. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Presentation on Noland Fashion Square redevelopment
• Wally's Presentation sponsored by Councilmember Fears
• Discussion of Municipal Court Facilities sponsored by Mayor Rowland
• Potential closed executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations

The council voted to suspend its rules so that non‑residents could address the meeting, and the motion passed with all voting members in favor. No formal actions were taken on the Noland Fashion Square redevelopment or the Wally’s travel center proposals. The municipal court relocation discussion remained informational with no vote recorded.

• Suspended rules to permit non‑resident public comments (approved, unanimous)

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will review financial and statistical reports from July 2025. Members will discuss a recommendation to establish a Citizens Advisory Council for IPL Governance. The meeting also includes updates on the AMI Project Manager and the IMC move.

• Recommendation to create a Citizens Advisory Council for IPL Governance
• July 2025 Utility Financial Reports
• Update on AMI Project Manager
• July 2025 IPL Statistical Charts
• Update on IMC Move

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings to consider variance requests for properties at 1905 S Arlington Ave and 14108 E 39th St S. The meeting will be held on September 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at 111 E. Maple Ave.

• Public hearing for variance at 1905 S Arlington Ave (Case 25-999-11)
• Public hearing for variance at 14108 E 39th St S (Case 25-999-12)
• Approval of July 17, 2025 minutes

The Board of Adjustment approved the variance request for 1905 S Arlington Ave with a 5‑0 vote. The board denied the variance request for 14108 E 39th St S, voting 1‑4 against approval. The board also approved the July 17, 2025 meeting minutes by a unanimous 5‑0 vote.

• Approved variance for 1905 S Arlington Ave (5-0)
• Denied variance for 14108 E 39th St S (1-4)
• Approved July 17, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Special Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting and discuss updates regarding new members, food truck policy, and short-term rental policy.

• Approval of minutes from August 12, 2025
• New Committee Members
• Alternate Committee Members
• Food Truck Policy
• Short Term Rental Policy

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by JJ Kuntz, seconded by Randall House, and passed unanimously. All other agenda items were informational updates with no decisions made.

• Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will meet to approve minutes from three previous meetings and review proposed revisions to its bylaws. The body will also receive an update on a skateboard competition event and discuss board and commission training.

• Approval of proposed bylaws revisions
• Update on skateboard competition event
• Discussion regarding board and commission training
• Approval of meeting minutes from March 11, May 27, and July 22, 2025

The commission approved the minutes from three prior meetings unanimously. An amendment to Article V of the bylaws was adopted, changing the chair‑selection language, and the revised bylaws were approved. The commission also authorized City Liaison John Mayfield to spend up to $100 for snack items for the 2026 skateboarding competition. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous vote.

• Approved March, May, and July 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved amendment to Article V‑Officers language (7-0)
• Adopted revised bylaws as amended (7-0)
• Authorized John Mayfield to spend up to $100 for event supplies (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Special Meetings

The Animal Welfare Committee will meet to review data and receive subcommittee reports. The meeting is scheduled for 4:00 PM at the Regional Animal Shelter.

• Data review
• Subcommittee reports

The Animal Welfare Committee unanimously approved the minutes, agreed to submit the Prop P draft report to the Council, committed each member to volunteer at least four hours per month, and approved exploring a December fundraiser. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved submission of Prop P draft report to Council (unanimous)
• Approved volunteer commitment of at least 4 hours/month per member (unanimous)
• Approved exploration of a December fundraiser (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved the property tax levy for FY2025-2026 and introduced utility rate increases, including a $5/month residential Power & Light charge hike and a new sanitary sewer rate schedule. The council also held public hearings and gave final approval to a rezoning at 1316 S. Osage Street, a bed and breakfast special use permit, and Historic Square District zoning amendments. Consent agenda items totaling over $3 million were approved, including a new fire department pumper and water treatment plant repairs.

• Approved $953,100 for a new fire department pumper
• Introduced Power & Light customer charge increase: $5/month residential, $10/month commercial, effective Jan 1, 2026
• Introduced new sanitary sewer rate schedule with first change effective Nov 1, 2025
• Final passage of property tax levy for FY2025-2026
• Approved rezoning at 1316 S. Osage Street to R-6/PUD with preliminary development plan

The council approved a revised property tax levy for the 2025‑2026 fiscal year and adopted several capital‑project purchase orders, including a fire‑engine pumper and police uniforms. It also passed ordinances amending the Historic Square District, rezoning a property for a daycare, and granting a bed‑and‑breakfast permit. Additional ordinances authorized utility easements and election procedures. All actions passed unanimously (6‑0) with one councilmember absent.

• Approved $953,100 purchase of fire department pumper (6-0)
• Approved $200,000 purchase for police uniforms (6-0)
• Approved amendment to property tax levy for FY 2025‑2026 (6-0)
• Approved ordinance amending Historic Square District (25-078) (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 1316 S. Osage St. to R‑6/PUD (25-079) (6-0)
• Approved special use permit for bed & breakfast at 3417 S. Denton Rd (25-080) (6-0)
• Approved utility easement ordinance for sanitary sewer project (25-077) (6-0)
• Approved election authorization ordinance for 2026 primary and general elections (25-081) (6-0)

Personnel Board

The Independence Personnel Board will approve minutes from its June 13 and July 30, 2025 meetings. It will also discuss a clarification of Article IV Personal Business Leave. No other business is listed.

• Approve minutes for the Regular Meeting on June 13, 2025
• Approve minutes for the Meeting on July 30, 2025
• Discuss Article IV Personal Business Leave Clarification

The board approved the minutes from the June 13 and July 30, 2025 meetings unanimously. It approved a proposal to change the personal business leave language so requests need not be made in advance, and voted to send the change to a public hearing. The meeting was adjourned at 10:06 a.m.

• Approved June 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 30, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved personal business leave verbiage change to public hearing (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee is meeting to conduct a pre-proposal conference where search firms can ask questions about the city's needs for a new City Manager. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is an information-gathering step. A closed executive session may follow on legal, personnel, or contract matters.

• Pre-proposal conference for executive search consultant for City Manager

The City Manager Recruitment Sub‑Committee held a pre‑proposal conference with a single search‑firm representative to discuss the cost of its proposal for the executive search consultant. No decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 8:15 a.m.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will meet via Microsoft Teams to receive an update and hold a discussion regarding a skateboard competition event.

• Update and discussion on skateboard competition event

The Human Relations Commission discussed items for a upcoming skateboard competition, including gift‑card donations and possible partnerships with local groups. Deputy Police Chief Michelle Sumstad will obtain requested gift cards, City Liaison John Mayfield will supply two Walmart cards, and Secretary Mara Bradford will contact Hy‑Vee for food donations. The meeting was adjourned after a motion passed 5‑0.

• Adjournment motion passed 5-0

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The commission will approve the August 14, 2025 meeting minutes. It will review an update on the sustainability award for a local business or individual and consider a tentative bike ride on Saturday, Oct 11, 2025 that would visit historic sites. Finally, the commission will adopt its 2025 priorities.

• Approve August 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on sustainability award for local business or individual
• Tentative bike ride of historic places scheduled for Saturday, Oct 11, 2025
• Adopt 2025 commission priorities

The commission approved the August 14, 2025 meeting minutes as distributed. Members agreed to explore using trees on the Square and to attend the next Tree Commission meeting. They noted that the Palmer Center recycles aluminum cans and discussed a tentative bike ride of historic places for October 11. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Approved August 14, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to explore use of trees on the Square
• Decided to attend the next Tree Commission meeting
• Noted Palmer Center recycles aluminum cans

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission is meeting to review old business regarding legacy trees and discuss new business. The agenda includes a landscape plan for Independence Square and the introduction of Public Relations Manager Maddie Rinson.

• Legacy Trees
• Public Relations Manager Maddie Rinson
• Independence Square landscape plan

The commission approved the August meeting minutes. It confirmed that planting for the Independence Square upgrade will begin on September 15, using four selected tree species. Members will meet on September 11 to flag out the trees. The City Public Relations Manager will develop a web page for the Legacy Tree program.

• Approved August meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Scheduled Independence Square planting to start Sept 15
• Selected four tree species (Honeylocust, Coffeetree, Blackgum, Hornbeam) for the planting
• Planned member site visit to flag trees on Sept 11
• Tasked Public Relations Manager Maddie Rincon with creating a Legacy Tree program web page

Special Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss the Uptown Matsuri event. The session includes a review of prior minutes and planning for future agenda items.

• Uptown Matsuri discussion

The Japanese Sister City Committee approved the August 2025 minutes unanimously. The committee also approved a $276 annual website hosting fee with a unanimous vote. Both motions passed by a show of hands.

• Approved August 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $276 website hosting fee (unanimous)

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will vote on consent agenda items (minutes) and hold public hearings on two UDO amendments: one for community gardens and another to allow electronic message signs in the ARTS District. Additionally, two requests to operate short-term rentals at 1115 S Leslie Street and 201 N Hardy Avenue are on the agenda. A roundtable discussion and next meeting date of October 14, 2025, are scheduled.

• Public hearing: UDO Amendment #76 – Community Garden
• Public hearing: UDO Amendment #77 – ARTS District Electronic Message Signs
• Short-term rental request – 1115 S Leslie Street (Case 25-400-11)
• Short-term rental request – 201 N Hardy Avenue (Case 25-400-12)

The commission approved its consent agenda unanimously. It granted approval for two short‑term rental applications—one at 1115 S Leslie Street with conditions for four bedrooms and a six‑guest limit, and another at 201 N Hardy Avenue. Both proposed Unified Development Ordinance amendments—one to allow community gardens and another to permit electronic message signs in the ARTS District—were also approved unanimously.

• Consent agenda approved (Yes 6, No 0)
• Short‑term rental at 1115 S Leslie St approved with four‑bedroom, six‑guest conditions (Yes 6, No 0)
• Short‑term rental at 201 N Hardy Ave approved (Yes 7, No 0)
• UDO Amendment #76 (community garden) approved (Yes 7, No 0)
• UDO Amendment #77 (arts district electronic message signs) approved (Yes 7, No 0)

Special Meetings

The City Council will hold an informational discussion on three facility topics: a future home for the Municipal Court, a future location for City Council meetings, and how to allocate direct‑report employees between the Municipal Commons and any building designated for Council meetings. No decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion only.

• Future home of Municipal Court (discussion only)
• Future location for City Council meetings (discussion only)
• Allocation of City Council direct‑report employees between Municipal Commons and a designated meeting building (discussion only)

The council discussed possible temporary locations for the Municipal Court and where future council meetings might be held. A work group was suggested to study the court's needs. Council staff office locations were also considered. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss a resolution regarding business license compliance in proposed economic development incentive districts. The session also includes presentations on the Parks Master Plan and the Housing Authority.

• Resolution to verify business license compliance in proposed economic development incentive districts
• Parks Master Plan Update presentation
• Housing Authority Overview presentation

The council reviewed a resolution directing City Manager Walker to verify business‑license compliance in proposed economic‑development districts, and Walker will add an amendment for the next regular meeting. No vote or formal approval was recorded. The Housing Authority overview was postponed to an October study session. A Parks Master Plan update was presented.

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Park Commission will meet to review staff reports and discuss new business items. The body will also address the Parks and Recreation Master Plan ahead of a City Council study session.

• Metal Detecting Ordinance
• Credit Card Fees
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan
• Budget staff report

The Independence Park Commission approved the May 1, 2025 minutes after a motion by Commissioner Baird and a second by Commissioner Smith. The commission also decided that meeting packets will no longer be printed for future meetings, opting to present information via projector or TV instead.

• Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (motion by Baird, seconded by Smith)
• Decided future meeting packets will not be printed; information to be shown on projector/TV

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee will hold a special virtual meeting to receive reports from the Health Department, AMR, Fire, and other agencies on emergency response performance. Updates on the ARCH co-responder program and regional preparedness are also scheduled. The agenda is primarily informational with no votes on new policies or contracts, except for a possible closed executive session on health proceedings.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• ARCH co-responder program update
• Executive session under RSMo 610.021(5) for mental/physical health discussions

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the meeting minutes as presented, with a motion by Dr. Gustafson and unanimous support. The committee then adjourned the meeting by unanimous consent. No other actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council will hold a closed executive session to consider issues of litigation, legal action, and attorney‑client communications. The agenda provides no further detail on specific cases or decisions. The meeting will adjourn after the session.

• Closed executive session on litigation, legal action, and attorney‑client communications

Council Meetings

The council will hold a full public hearing on the city's proposed property tax rates for the fiscal year beginning July 1 2025. It will also consider and approve multiple contracts, including a $105,483.75 purchase order for the fire department reporting system and a $465,177 HVAC maintenance contract, as well as resolutions supporting affordable rental housing and a library relocation. Additional items include rezoning and special‑use permit applications for specific properties.

• Full public hearing on proposed property tax rates for FY 2025‑26
• Purchase order to ImageTrend, Inc. for $105,483.75 for fire department reporting system
• Contract with Design Mechanical for $465,177 HVAC maintenance and repairs at city facilities
• Purchase of $250,000 road salt by Central Salt, LLC for Municipal Services Department
• Purchase order to JCI Industries, LLC for $249,996 for two replacement pumps at Rock Creek Pump Station (Project No. 302606)

The council approved several large expenditures, including a $465,177 contract for HVAC maintenance and a $250,000 purchase of road salt. It also adopted resolutions supporting affordable rental housing at Terrace Crossing and the Mid‑Continent Library’s acquisition of city‑owned property at 111 E. Maple Ave. Additional actions included approving the rezoning of 201 E. Partridge Avenue and a special‑use permit for a convenience store at 11037 E. Winner Road.

• Approved $465,177 HVAC maintenance contract with Design Mechanical (6-0)
• Approved $250,000 road salt purchase from Central Salt, LLC (6-0)
• Approved $105,483.75 purchase order to ImageTrend, Inc. for emergency reporting system (6-0)
• Approved $249,996 purchase of two replacement pumps from JCI Industries, LLC (6-0)
• Adopted resolution 25-784 supporting Terrace Crossing affordable rental housing and waiving $50,001 in permit fees (5-1)
• Adopted resolution 25-785 supporting Mid‑Continent Library acquisition of city property at 111 E. Maple Ave (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 201 E. Partridge Avenue to C‑1 Neighborhood Commercial (6-0)
• Approved special‑use permit for convenience store at 11037 E. Winner Road (6-0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

This sub-committee is discussing revisions to the Request for Proposals for a city manager recruitment firm and reviewing the process and release dates for the search. The agenda also notes the possibility of an executive session on personnel and legal matters. This meeting is a procedural step in hiring a city manager.

• City Manager Recruitment Firm RFP Revisions
• Review of Process and Release Dates
• Possible Executive Session on personnel or legal matters

The sub‑committee approved the August 22 meeting minutes with edits by unanimous vote. It adopted a series of revisions to the city‑manager recruitment firm RFP, including removing Section A, adding screening interview options, and updating resume‑ranking and contract language. The committee also agreed on a timeline for issuing the RFP, receiving proposals, and selecting a search firm.

• Approved August 22 minutes with edits (unanimous)
• Removed Section A (deadline list) from RFP
• Added option for sub‑committee screening interviews (new bullet 10)
• Changed bi‑weekly update requirement to Human Resources Director and sub‑committee (bullet 19)
• Included sub‑committee in Scope C bullet 2
• Added clause for reciprocal non‑disclosure/non‑compete disclosures
• Adjusted candidate ranking to be done by sub‑committee (resume bullet 10)
• Set RFP schedule: issue Sep 3, conference Sep 12, questions due Sep 17, proposals due Sep 24

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee will meet on August 26, 2025, to consider approval of minutes, review June and July financial statements, and receive updates from CIGNA, CBiz, and Human Resources. The agenda also includes a report on wellness activities and old business regarding a virtual physical therapy comparison. This is a routine procedural meeting with no decisions on legislation, contracts, or budget items.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• June financial statement presented by Finance Department
• July financial statement presented by Finance Department
• Update from CIGNA by Kevin Kueker and Lisa Phillips
• Old business: virtual physical therapy comparison

The Stay Well Committee met on August 26, 2025 and reviewed June and July financial statements, received updates from Cigna, CBiz, HR, and wellness activities. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded. The council will vote on a 10% rate increase at the September 2 meeting, and a virtual PT comparison will be discussed next month.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a proposed amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance regarding fuel sales and auto repair, and a special use permit for a gas station at 4023 S. Noland Road. They will also elect a chair and vice-chair and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Case 25-175-04: UDO Amendment #75 – Fuel Sales & Auto Repair
• Case 25-200-07: Special Use Permit for gas station at 4023 S. Noland Road by Wally's
• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Consent agenda: Approval of August 12, 2025 minutes

The commission elected Laurie Dean Wiley as Chair and Eric Ashbaugh as Vice‑Chair and approved the consent agenda. It also adopted a five‑minute limit for public speakers and approved two development actions: a UDO amendment reducing the fuel‑sale separation requirement to 400 feet (6‑1) and a special‑use permit for a Wally’s gas station on S. Noland Road (5‑1‑1).

• Appointed Laurie Dean Wiley Chair, Eric Ashbaugh Vice‑Chair (7‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (7‑0)
• Approved 5‑minute public speaker limit (6‑1)
• Approved UDO amendment #75 reducing separation to 400 ft (6‑1)
• Approved Special Use Permit for 4023 S. Noland Road (Wally’s) (5‑1‑1)

Council Meetings

This agenda is for a closed executive session only, where the council will 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

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to review presentations and staff reports. The meeting includes discussions on the City Manager recruitment process and IPL customer charges.

• Housing Authority Overview presentation
• IPL Customer Charge Review
• City Manager recruitment process update

The Housing Authority overview was postponed to September 8 due to a scheduling conflict. A presentation on IPL customer charges was given, but no vote or approval was recorded. An update on the city manager recruitment process was discussed, with no decision made. No substantive actions were taken at this study session.

Council Meetings

The City Manager Recruitment Sub-Committee is meeting to discuss the Request for Proposals (RFP) for a search firm to assist in hiring a new city manager. They will also discuss the overall recruitment process. No decisions or votes are recorded; the meeting is preliminary and procedural.

• Discussion of RFP for search firm
• Discussion of recruitment process

The sub‑committee reviewed items for a city‑manager recruitment RFP, including scope, evaluation criteria, and submission requirements. Members assigned tasks for drafting the RFP and scheduled future meetings to finalize it. The only formal action taken was a unanimous motion to adjourn the meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Public Utility Advisory Board

The Public Utility Advisory Board will review a presentation on IPL customer charge adjustments. Members will also discuss proposed governance changes for IPL and receive updates on the AMI Project Manager and summer storm impacts.

• IPL Customer Charge Adjustment presentation
• Proposed governance changes for IPL
• Update on AMI Project Manager
• Review of June 2025 Utility Financial Reports
• IPL material concerns for Fall/Winter

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for August 12, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered. The next regularly scheduled meeting will occur on September 18, 2025.

The Board of Adjustment cancelled its August 12, 2025 meeting. No items were decided. The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2025.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will meet to review a Japanese exchange and discuss the Uptown Matsuri. The meeting also includes the approval of prior minutes.

• Japanese exchange review
• Uptown Matsuri discussion

The committee approved the July meeting minutes unanimously and then adjourned. Planning for the 2025 Uptown Matsuri was discussed, with a tentative date of November 8 and a Fall Festival theme. Dustin will apply for a Japan America Foundation grant and will send a feedback form to the exchange group. The meeting was formally adjourned.

• Approved July meeting minutes (unanimous approval)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)
• Tentative Uptown Matsuri date set for November 8, 2025
• Uptown Matsuri theme proposed as Fall Festival
• Dustin will apply for a grant through Japan America Foundation
• Dustin will send a feedback form to the exchange group
• Start time for Matsuri suggested as Noon–4:00/5:00
• Research 501(c)(3) status to begin January 2026, subcommittee to be formed

Council Meetings

The City Council approved several high-value purchase orders for the Power & Light Department and authorized the issuance of general obligation bonds. The body also approved a grant for the East US-24 Highway and South Ash Avenue intersection realignment.

• Authorization of general obligation bonds, series 2025, not to exceed $32,000,000
• Purchase orders for Power & Light Department including $850,000 to Fletcher-Reinhardt and $575,000 to Graybar Electric
• Grant agreement for the realignment of East US-24 Highway and South Ash Avenue intersection
• Proposed rezoning to District C-1 for the property at 201 E. Partridge Avenue
• Proposed Special Use Permit for a convenience store at 11037 East Winner Road

The Independence City Council voted 7‑0 to authorize a $32 million general‑obligation bond series for street, bridge and sidewalk improvements. It also approved a traffic‑code amendment limiting side‑by‑side and 4‑wheel‑drive vehicles, and several procurement contracts for the Power & Light Department. All items were adopted unanimously.

• Approved $32,000,000 bond authorization (7-0) – Ordinance 25‑064
• Approved traffic‑code amendment restricting side‑by‑side and 4‑wheel‑drive vehicles (7-0) – Ordinance 25‑060
• Approved $154,114 purchase order to Power Engineers, Inc. for augmented engineering services (7-0)
• Approved renewal of Pinnacle Staffing Group custodial services contract for FY2025‑2026 and FY2026‑2027 (7-0)
• Approved $225,000 LESBI agreement with Jackson County COMBAT for Police STEP program (7-0)
• Approved $150,000 blanket fuel purchase order for Fire Department via QuikTrip/WEX (7-0)
• Approved resolution establishing the City Manager Recruitment Sub‑Committee (7-0) – Res. 25‑782
• Approved reappointment of Les Boatright to the Public Utilities Advisory Board (7-0) – Res. 25‑778

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will review minutes from July, discuss updates on a sustainability award for a local business or individual, plan a Bike Ride of Historic Places tentatively scheduled for October 11, and set 2025 commission priorities. No binding decisions or expenditure approvals are expected.

• Approval of July 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on sustainability award for local business or individual (nomination form and criteria provided)
• Bike Ride of Historic Places – tentative date Saturday, Oct 11, with stops at Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, Bingham Waggoner, and Chicago Alton Depot
• Discussion of 2025 Commission priorities

The Sustainability Commission approved the July 14, 2025 meeting minutes as distributed. The commission also scheduled its next meeting for September 11, 2025 at 5 PM. No other actions were decided during this session.

• Approved July 14, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 11, 2025 at 5 PM

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tree Commission will meet on August 13, 2025 at Vaile Mansion. They will discuss Legacy Trees (old business), a community development presentation by Hollie Allerson, and a landscape plan for Vaile Mansion. The meeting also includes a Tree Talk segment.

• Legacy Trees discussion (old business)
• Community Development presentation by Hollie Allerson
• Landscape Plan for Vaile Mansion at 1500 N Liberty
• Tree Talk segment
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The Independence Tree Commission approved the June meeting minutes. It decided to resume research on legacy trees, cancel the Champion Tree program, and develop a website with photos and measurements of recommended trees. The commission also agreed to receive a guideline on reporting hazardous trees and other code violations and to plant a replacement tree and a donated Kousa Dogwood at Vaile Mansion.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Resumed legacy tree research and will create a website with photos and measurements
• Cancelled the Champion Tree program
• Will receive a guideline for reporting hazardous trees and other code violations via email
• Will plant a replacement tree at Vaile Mansion
• Will purchase and plant a donated Kousa Dogwood at Vaile Mansion

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council will hold a closed executive session on August 13, 2025. The session is called under RSMo 610.021 to address personnel matters and specifications for competitive bidding. No specific proposals or decisions are listed in the public agenda.

• Closed executive session on personnel matters (per RSMo 610.021)
• Closed executive session on specifications for competitive bidding (per RSMo 610.021)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee will convene to approve previous minutes and receive committee updates. The meeting will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams.

• Approval of minutes
• Committee updates
• Other business

Council Meetings

The City Council will convene in a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters under RSMo. 610.021(3) and specifications for competitive bidding under Sec. 610.021(11). No public action or votes are scheduled. The meeting is procedural only.

• Closed session for personnel matters (Sec. 610.021(3))
• Closed session for competitive bidding specifications (Sec. 610.021(11))

Public Hearings

The Independence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a request to rezone properties at 710 & 720 W Maple Ave from commercial and high-density residential to single-family residential. The commission will also hear a request to allow a short-term rental at 2322 S. Sterling Ave.

• Public hearing for rezoning 710 & 720 W Maple Ave to R-6
• Public hearing for short-term rental at 2322 S. Sterling Ave
• Approval of Planning Commission minutes from July 29, 2025

The commission unanimously approved the rezoning of 710 and 720 West Maple Avenue from high‑density residential and general commercial to single‑family residential. It also unanimously approved a short‑term rental request for 2322 South Sterling Avenue. The consent agenda items were approved without dissent.

• Approved rezoning of 710 & 720 W Maple Ave to R-6 (Yes 5, No 0)
• Approved short‑term rental request at 2322 S. Sterling Ave (Yes 5, No 0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (Yes 5, No 0)

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session with two presentations: the Independence Square Master Plan and a fire department communications update. The meeting also includes informational reports from city boards and commissions. A closed executive session may be convened for matters such as litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations.

• Independence Square Master Plan presentation
• Independence Fire Department Communications presentation
• Boards and Commission informational report
• Potential closed executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor

The City Council held a study session on August 11, 2025, presenting the Independence Square Master Plan amendment to the Historic Square District and a fire department communications proposal with cost estimates. No votes or formal actions were recorded during the session. The proposed HSQ amendment is scheduled for a Planning Commission review on July 29, a City Council first reading on September 2, and a public hearing/second reading on September 15.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Advisory Board of Health will meet virtually to discuss board vacancies, plan fall health events, and address vaccinations. The agenda is procedural with no specific proposals or dollar amounts listed.

• Discussion of board vacancies
• Planning for fall health events
• Discussion on vaccinations

The Advisory Board of Health approved the prior meeting's minutes with a unanimous vote. The board also voted unanimously to recommend Joseph Keary as the new medical practitioner representative for Centerpoint. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended Joseph Keary as medical practitioner representative (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Storm Water Control Oversight Committee will hear staff reports on financial matters, maintenance updates, and capital improvement projects. A presentation by James Walton on the Little Blue Feasibility Study will also be given. No decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Staff Report – Financial
• Staff Report – Maintenance
• Staff Report – Capital Improvement Projects
• Presentation – Little Blue Feasibility Study

The committee heard financial, maintenance, and capital improvement reports and a Little Blue feasibility study presentation. No approvals, denials, or policy changes were made. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that passed 4‑0 with one member absent.

• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee will review reports from the health department, AMR, fire, medical director, CenterPoint, IPD, regional preparedness, and the ARCH co‑responder program. It may also vote to close a portion of the meeting under RSMo Section 610.021(5) for discussions involving identifiable health information. The meeting concludes with an executive session.

• Review of COI Health Department report
• Review of AMR emergency response report
• Review of fire emergency response report
• Potential vote to close part of meeting for confidential health matters
• Executive session

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the meeting minutes after a motion by Matt and a second by Ron, with all present voting in favor. The committee then adjourned the meeting at 9:05 AM after a motion by Matt and a second by Mac, again with all present approving.

• Approved meeting minutes (all present)
• Adjourned meeting (all present)

General

The Heritage Commission will consider updates to the Historic Preservation Design Guidelines and the Demolition Policy. The body will also perform a courtesy review of a re-zoning request for two properties on West Maple Avenue.

• Updated Historic Preservation Design Guidelines
• Heritage Commission Demolition Policy update
• Courtesy review of re-zoning for 710 and 720 West Maple Avenue
• Section 106 reviews for 400 West Farmer Street and 831 North Forest Avenue

Council Meetings

The City Council is deciding on several high-value purchase orders for cybersecurity, fuel, and utility services. The body is also reviewing a rezoning request for high-density residential development and proposing the issuance of $32 million in bonds.

• Rezoning of 19300 E. 37th Terrace from General Commercial to High Density Residential/PUD
• Proposed issuance of up to $32,000,000 in general obligation bonds, series 2025
• $1,300,000 purchase order to John Moore Oil Company for fuel oil
• $909,001.37 purchase order to Logicalis for cybersecurity services
• Appropriation of $250,000 from Opioid Settlement Funds for the Alternative Response to Community Health program

The council approved an ordinance rezoning 19300 East 37th Terrace South to high‑density residential. It recognized Madeline Rincon as the ISTAR Award recipient. Multiple purchase orders totaling about $2.5 million for software, fuel, cybersecurity, utility locating, equipment and vehicle leases were approved. The council also authorized $250,000 from opioid settlement funds for a health program.

• Recognized Madeline Rincon with ISTAR Award (6‑0)
• Approved $321,268.65 data‑center software purchase orders (6‑0)
• Approved $1,300,000 fuel oil purchase order for Power & Light (6‑0)
• Approved $909,001.37 cybersecurity services purchase orders (6‑0)
• Approved $664,000 utility locating services purchase order (6‑0)
• Approved $248,775.39 VFD purchase for Rock Creek Pump Station (6‑0)
• Approved $602,000 vehicle lease purchase order for Fleet Division (6‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 19300 E. 37th Terrace South to high‑density residential (6‑0)

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The committee will meet to approve minutes from the March 24, 2025, meeting. Members will receive and accept quarterly reports from the Fire Department and Police Department, including specific tax reports.

• Acceptance of Fire Department Quarterly Report
• Acceptance of Police Department Quarterly Report
• Acceptance of Police Department Quarterly Use Tax Report
• Acceptance of Police Department Quarterly Marijuana Tax Report
• Acceptance of Police Department Quarterly Prop PD Tax Report

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee nominated Bruce Frakes as co‑chair, and the motion passed unanimously. The committee approved the March 24, 2025 minutes and accepted the quarterly reports from the Fire Department and multiple Police Department tax reports. All approvals were made by unanimous consent. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Bruce Frakes appointed Co‑Chair (all in favor)
• March 24, 2025 minutes approved (all in favor)
• Fire Department quarterly report accepted (all in favor)
• Police Department quarterly tax report accepted (all in favor)
• Police Department quarterly use‑tax report accepted (all in favor)
• Police Department quarterly marijuana‑tax report accepted (all in favor)
• Police Department quarterly Prop‑PD tax report accepted (all in favor)
• Meeting adjourned (all in favor)

Special Meetings

The Personnel Board is convening for a special meeting. The board will meet in a closed session to discuss personnel actions.

• Closed session regarding personnel actions per RSMo. Sec. 610.021(3)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a rezoning request at 1316 S. Osage Street, a special use permit for a bed & breakfast at 3417 S. Denton, and an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance for the Historic Square District. The consent agenda includes approval of a final plat for Little Blue Estates, Plat 1B, and an other-business item addresses a short-term rental at 1308 N. Vista Drive. A previously scheduled rezoning at 2310 S. Harvard has been withdrawn.

• Final Plat approval for Little Blue Estates, Plat 1B (west of Jackson Drive, north of Necessary Road)
• Rezoning/PUD at 1316 S. Osage Street from R-6 to R-6/PUD with Preliminary Development Plan
• Special Use Permit for a Bed & Breakfast at 3417 S. Denton
• UDO Amendment #74 for the Historic Square District
• Short-Term Rental request at 1308 N. Vista Drive

The commission adopted a zoning amendment to the Historic Square District (5‑1 vote). It also approved a final plat for Little Blue Estates, a rezoning/PUD for 1316 S. Osage Street with a lighting‑plan condition, a Bed & Breakfast special‑use permit with amended guest and driveway requirements, and a short‑term rental permit for 1308 N. Vista Drive (all 6‑0 votes). The consent agenda was approved unanimously.

• Approved Historic Square District UDO Amendment #74 (5 Yes, 1 No)
• Approved Final Plat Little Blue Estates, Case 25-320-03 (6 Yes, 0 No)
• Approved Rezoning/PUD for 1316 S. Osage Street with lighting‑plan condition (6 Yes, 0 No)
• Approved Bed & Breakfast permit at 3417 S. Denton with guest limit and driveway widening (6 Yes, 0 No)
• Approved Short‑Term Rental permit at 1308 N. Vista Drive (6 Yes, 0 No)
• Approved Consent Agenda (6 Yes, 0 No)
• Approved Rezoning/PUD case after adding lighting condition (6 Yes, 0 No)
• Approved Bed & Breakfast case after amending conditions (6 Yes, 0 No)

Special Meetings

The City Council is holding a round table meeting to discuss potential future elections and legal feasibility for several financial and governance measures. The session focuses on planning and strategy rather than final votes.

• General Obligation Bond potential projects and election dates
• IPL Governance Charter Amendment language and timing
• Museum and Tourism-Related Activities Tax feasibility and purpose
• Public Safety Sales Tax Renewal timeline and ballot strategy
• Identification of other potential Charter Amendments

The July 28 round‑table meeting reviewed General Obligation Bond projects, possible charter amendments, a museum and tourism tax, and renewal of the public‑safety sales tax. Council members suggested timelines, advisory committees, and public‑engagement sessions, but no votes or official approvals were recorded. The council agreed to hold two community‑input meetings in September and to place historic‑sites and animal‑shelter questions on the April 2026 ballot.

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee is meeting to review financial statements and reports from the Finance Department and CBiz. The body will receive updates from Cigna and HR, and discuss wellness activities and 2026 premiums.

• Review of financial statement from Finance Department
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• Update from Cigna
• Update from HR
• Discussion of 2026 Premiums

The Stay Well Committee reviewed financial statements, Cigna updates, a medical financial overview, and HR enrollment plans. A recommendation for a 10% premium increase in 2026 was presented, but no vote or formal approval was recorded. No other actions were decided.

Council Meetings

The City Council is meeting in a closed executive session. The session is limited to discussions regarding litigation, legal action, attorney-client communications, and personnel matters.

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to receive presentations on two specific topics. The meeting is for information and updates rather than final legislative decisions.

• Update from IPD on the issuance of body worn cameras
• Sewer rate updates

The Independence City Council met on July 28, 2025 for a study session. Presentations covered the police department's body‑worn camera program and a review of sewer rates. The council discussed the information but did not record any votes, approvals, or other formal decisions.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will hold a meeting on July 22, 2025 to review and discuss three items: a Juneteenth review, an Icon Award review, and plans for a skateboarding competition event. No decisions are indicated; the agenda lists these topics for discussion only.

• Juneteenth review and discussion
• Icon Award review and discussion
• Skateboard competition event discussion

The Human Relations Commission voted to adjourn the meeting, with the motion passing 5-0. The meeting officially ended at 4:30 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 16 at 4:00 p.m. in the Independence Utilities Center, Room 117.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (5-0)

Council Meetings

The City Council approved several high-value operational contracts and accepted multiple state and federal grants for police enforcement. The body also decided on several property rezonings and the transfer of Crysler Stadium to the Independence School District.

• Approved $3,619,750.00 for FY 2025–2026 fuel purchases from Frazier Oil & LP Gas Company, Inc.
• Accepted $1,156,000.00 MoDOT grant for impaired driving enforcement and youth alcohol compliance checks
• Authorized the transfer of Crysler Stadium to the Independence School District
• Approved rezoning of 15430 & 15440 E. US 24 Highway and 11307 E. Aaron Lane to R-6 Single Family Residential
• Approved a $119,980 design services contract with Olsson Associates for the Streambanks Project

The Independence City Council approved multiple expenditures, including a $3,619,750 fuel and fuel‑oil purchase for the Fire, Municipal Services, and Power & Light departments. It also approved contracts for design services, storm‑water improvements, vehicle leases, and transit services. Additionally, the council approved rezoning of two properties, a short‑term rental permit, and a special‑use permit for a convenience store.

• Approved $3,619,750 fuel and fuel‑oil purchases from Frazier Oil & LP Gas Co. (7‑0)
• Approved $1,797,000 energy services contract with Tenaska for FY 2025‑26 (7‑0)
• Approved $300,000 inventory purchase with Blue Springs Winwater (7‑0)
• Approved design services contract to Olsson Associates up to $119,980 (7‑0)
• Approved transit services contract with Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (7‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 15430 & 15440 E. US 24 Highway to R‑6 (7‑0)
• Approved short‑term rental permit for 3712 South Crysler Avenue (7‑0)
• Approved special‑use permit for a convenience store at 104 E. Lexington Avenue (7‑0)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Sustainability Commission will meet on July 17 to discuss old business including an award for a local business or individual and a Bike Ride of Historic Places tentatively set for October 11. New business includes setting 2025 commission priorities. The meeting is mostly updates and discussion with no major decisions or financial items.

• Update on award for local business or individual
• Bike Ride of Historic Places tentatively scheduled for Saturday, October 11, featuring Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, and Bingham Waggoner
• Discussion of 2025 Commission priorities
• Approval of June 12, 2025 meeting minutes

The commission approved the June 12, 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed a local sustainability award, outreach ideas, and a tentative bike ride on Oct. 11. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved June 12, 2025 meeting minutes

Public Hearings

The Independence Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings to consider two variance requests for properties on Partridge Avenue and Liberty Street. The board will also approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Public hearing for 201 E. Partridge Avenue fence height variance
• Public hearing for 811 S. Liberty Street setback variance
• Approval of March 20, April 17, and June 16, 2025 minutes

The Board of Adjustment approved a variance to increase front‑yard fence height at 201 E. Partridge Avenue and a variance to modify setback requirements at 811 S. Liberty Street. Both motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0‑0 vote. The board also approved the minutes from the March 20, April 17 and June 16, 2025 meetings, each by a 5‑0‑0 vote.

• Approved variance for 201 E. Partridge Ave fence height (5-0-0)
• Approved variance for 811 S. Liberty St setback (5-0-0)
• Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved April 17, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)
• Approved June 16, 2025 minutes (5-0-0)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Industrial Development Authority will meet to approve prior minutes and consider an application to amend its Articles of Incorporation.

• Approval of May 5, 2025 minutes
• Application to amend IDA Articles of Incorporation

Public Hearings

The Independence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a request to rezone a property on Partridge Avenue and a request by Englewood Market for a special use permit to operate a convenience store. The meeting will also include a consent agenda with routine items.

• Public hearing for Case 25-100-15: Rezoning 201 E. Partridge Avenue
• Public hearing for Case 25-200-05: Englewood Market special use permit
• Consent agenda includes approval of June 24, 2025 minutes
• Consent agenda includes Case 25-600-03: Walmart special sign permit

The Planning Commission approved the amended consent agenda (6‑0). It also approved a special sign permit for 11601 E. US 40 Highway (6‑0), rezoned 201 E. Partridge Avenue from mixed‑use to C‑1 commercial (6‑0), and granted a special use permit for a convenience store at 11037 E. Winner Road (4‑2). All motions were adopted as recorded.

• Amended Consent Agenda approved (6-0)
• Special sign permit for 11601 E. US 40 Highway approved (6-0)
• Rezoning of 201 E. Partridge Ave to C‑1 commercial approved (6-0)
• Special use permit for 11037 E. Winner Road approved (4-2)

Special Meetings

This special meeting of the Animal Welfare Committee includes the election of a chair and vice-chair, setting the meeting schedule and topics, and reviewing the history and possible amendments to Proposition P. No votes on ordinances or financial decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Election of chair and vice-chair
• Discussion of meeting schedule and future topics
• Review of Proposition P history and potential amendments

The committee elected Cody Atkinson as chair and Tamara Huff as vice‑chair, with all members approving. They set the regular meeting cadence to the third Monday of September at 4 pm. Four subcommittees—Communication and Community Outreach, Fundraising, Legislative, and Volunteering—were formed with designated members. The meeting was adjourned by a motion approved unanimously.

• Cody Atkinson elected chair (unanimous approval)
• Tamara Huff elected vice‑chair (unanimous approval)
• Future meetings scheduled for third Monday in September at 4 pm (unanimous approval)
• Communication and Community Outreach subcommittee formed (Linda Pringle, Linda Humphrey, Tamara Huff)
• Fundraising subcommittee formed (Linda Pringle, Cody Atkinson, Terri Hoeflicker)
• Legislative subcommittee formed (Cody Atkinson, Rachel Eis, Ted Luce)
• Volunteering subcommittee formed (Terri Hoeflicker, Ted Luce, Rachel Eis)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous approval)

Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss three sponsored items: a resolution amending Council Rules of Procedure, a resolution urging Jackson County to create commercial property tax relief, and an ordinance amending the city traffic code. Presentations on city facilities construction and IPL charter governance will also be given. Citizen requests are not eligible under council rules. The council may later convene in closed session for litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations.

• Resolution to amend Section 5.1 of Council Rules of Procedure
• Resolution calling on Jackson County to create property tax relief for commercial property owners
• Ordinance amending Chapter 18 (Traffic) of Independence City Code
• Presentation: City Facilities Construction Update
• Presentation: IPL Charter Governance Review

The council considered three sponsored items—a rule‑procedure amendment, a resolution urging Jackson County tax relief, and a traffic ordinance amendment—but no votes or formal actions were recorded. The traffic ordinance amendment was pulled for further consideration on an undetermined date. A review of the IPL charter governance was discussed, with no decision made. Presentations provided updates on ongoing city construction projects and utilities.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The board will hold annual officer elections for chair and vice-chair, and receive a presentation on a sewer rate study from 1898 & Co. Reports include utility financial reports for May 2025, an update on the AMI project manager, and an update on the Independence Municipal Commons (IMC) move.

• Annual officer elections for chairperson and vice-chairperson
• Sewer rate study presentation by 1898 & Co.
• Questions on utility financial reports for May 2025
• Update on AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) project manager
• Update on Independence Municipal Commons (IMC) move

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee will meet to approve minutes 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 financial figures are provided in the agenda.

• Acceptance of quarterly report from Fire Department
• Acceptance of quarterly report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Use Tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Marijuana Tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Prop PD Tax report from Police Department

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee meeting was canceled for lack of quorum and will be rescheduled. Despite the cancellation, the committee recorded acceptance of the quarterly fire department report and several quarterly police department reports, including use tax, marijuana tax, and property tax reports. No vote tallies were provided.

• Accepted Quarterly Fire Department Report
• Accepted Quarterly Police Department Report
• Accepted Quarterly Use Tax Report from Police Department
• Accepted Quarterly Marijuana Tax Report from Police Department
• Accepted Quarterly Property Tax Report from Police Department

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss enhancing existing events for the 2026 World Cup and offering special benefits to sponsors. The agenda also includes review of prior minutes, a fundraising and sponsorship discussion, and committee updates. No votes or final decisions are scheduled.

• Brainstorming ways to enhance existing events for the World Cup
• Discussion on special benefits to offer sponsors
• Fundraising and sponsorship discussion
• Approval of minutes from June 10, 2025

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting. Members were directed to add the listed events to the MARC regional calendar, including the July 4 celebration scheduled for June 26. The meeting adjourned at 11:47 a.m.

• Approved minutes from June 10, 2025
• Directed events be added to the MARC regional calendar

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved multiple purchase orders, including an $860,000 contract to rehabilitate the Horizontal Collector Well at the Courtney Bend Water Treatment Plant. It also authorized a $228,276.60 order for five new fleet vehicles and a $627,325.47 renewal of Microsoft Office licensing. The council voted on rezoning 13893 East 35th Street Court South from industrial to general commercial and on a short‑term rental resolution for 14901 East 40th Street South, which failed.

• $860,000 purchase order to Layne Christensen Company for Horizontal Collector Well rehabilitation at Courtney Bend Water Treatment Plant
• $228,276.60 purchase order to Olathe Ford for five new fleet vehicles
• $627,325.47 purchase order to Logicalis for renewal of Microsoft Office licensing
• Rezoning ordinance changing 13893 East 35th Street Court South from I‑1 (Industrial) to C‑2 (General Commercial)
• Resolution for short‑term rental at 14901 East 40th Street South (failed 4‑2 vote)

The Independence City Council approved multiple purchase orders, including an $860,000 contract to rehabilitate the Horizontal Collector Well at the Courtney Bend Water Treatment Plant, and a $228,276.60 order for five new fleet vehicles. It also approved software licensing and utility hardware expenditures ranging from $150,050 to $627,325.47, all with unanimous 6‑0 votes. The council rejected a short‑term rental resolution for 14901 E. 40th St South (4‑2) and approved a rezoning and special‑use permit for 13893 E. 35th St Ct S (both 4‑2).

• Approved $860,000 water well rehab contract (6-0)
• Approved $228,276.60 purchase of 5 fleet vehicles (6-0)
• Approved $627,325.47 Microsoft Office licensing renewal (6-0)
• Approved $150,050 ESRI software licensing purchase (6-0)
• Approved $172,522.23 Cityworks software licensing purchase (6-0)
• Approved additional $100,000 Fletcher‑Reinhardt utility hardware (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 13893 E. 35th St Ct S to C‑2 (4-2)
• Rejected short‑term rental resolution 25‑761 for 14901 E. 40th St South (4-2)

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee will approve the previous meeting minutes and hear reports from the COI Health Department, Centerpoint, IPD & Communication Center, and the regional emergency preparedness team. It will review recent AMR and fire emergency responses and receive an update on the ARCH co‑responder program. The meeting may include an executive‑session vote to close a portion of the discussion on nonjudicial health proceedings.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• Centerpoint updates
• ARCH co‑responder program update

The committee approved the meeting minutes as submitted, with all members present voting in favor. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous approval by all present)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous approval by all present)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Council will hear a presentation on a statue for Hiram Young Park and discuss the roles, responsibilities, and membership of the Arts Commission. The meeting also includes approval of the May 6, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Approval of May 6, 2025, meeting minutes
• Hiram Young Park Statue Presentation
• Arts Commission roles, responsibilities, and membership discussion

The Arts Commission approved the minutes from the May 6, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. Members also voted unanimously to support placing a statue in Hiram Young Park. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:41 PM by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved May 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Supported placement of a statue in Hiram Young Park (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:41 PM (unanimous voice vote)

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee will hold its quarterly meeting to accept updates from the Fire and Police Departments. The main actions are approving minutes and accepting quarterly reports, including use tax, marijuana tax, and Prop PD tax reports from the Police Department. No other decisions or proposals are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from March 24, 2025 meeting
• Acceptance of quarterly report from Fire Department
• Acceptance of quarterly report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Use Tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Marijuana Tax and Prop PD Tax reports from Police Department

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee meeting on June 26, 2025 was canceled because a quorum was not present and will be rescheduled. The committee accepted the quarterly report from the Fire Department and the quarterly reports from the Police Department, including use tax, marijuana tax, and property tax reports. The next meeting is set for September 25, 2025 at 4:00 PM.

• Accepted Quarterly Report from Fire Department
• Accepted Quarterly Use Tax Report from Police Department
• Accepted Quarterly Marijuana Tax Report from Police Department
• Accepted Quarterly Property Tax Report from Police Department

Special Meetings

This is a procedural meeting of the Stay Well Committee. They will approve minutes, review a financial statement from the Finance Department, receive updates from Cigna and CBiz, an HR update, and a presentation on wellness activities. No votes on new policies or contracts are listed.

• Update from Cigna presented by Carol Buckner Ayers and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• HR update presented by Bethany Dickey
• Wellness activities presentation by Selena Good
• Next meeting scheduled for July 22, 2025

The Stay Well Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Financial reports for May 2025 were presented and discussed, and updates were given on Cigna representation, CBiz medical finances, and upcoming wellness activities. No substantive policy decisions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (vote tally not recorded)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone 19300 E. 37th Terrace from C-2 (General Commercial) to R-30/PUD (High Density Residential/Planned Unit Development) and to approve a preliminary development plan. A short-term rental application at 2104 N. Liberty St has been withdrawn. The commission will also consider two other short-term rental requests at 3712 S. Crysler Ave and 3804 S. Woodland Ave.

• Public hearing: Case 25-125-02 – Rezoning/PUD – 19300 E. 37th Terrace (C-2 to R-30/PUD with preliminary development plan)
• Withdrawn: Case 25-400-08 – Short-Term Rental – 2104 N. Liberty St
• Other business: Case 25-400-06 – Short-Term Rental – 3712 S. Crysler Ave
• Other business: Case 25-400-07 – Short-Term Rental – 3804 S. Woodland Ave
• Consent agenda: Planning Commission minutes – June 10, 2025

The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda. It approved the rezoning and planned‑unit‑development request for 19300 E. 37th Terrace, changing the zoning from C‑2 to R‑30/PUD. It also approved two short‑term‑rental applications (3712 S. Crysler Ave and 3804 S. Woodland Ave) with unanimous votes. One short‑term‑rental request (2104 N. Liberty St) was withdrawn.

• Consent agenda approved (Yes 7, No 0, Abstained 0)
• Rezoning/PUD case 25-125-02 approved (Yes 7, No 0, Abstained 0)
• Short‑term rental case 25-400-06 (3712 S. Crysler Ave) approved (Yes 7, No 0, Abstained 0)
• Short‑term rental case 25-400-07 (3804 S. Woodland Ave) approved (Yes 7, No 0, Abstained 0)
• Short‑term rental case 25-400-08 (2104 N. Liberty St) withdrawn

Council Meetings

The City Council will meet in a closed executive session to discuss litigation, legal action, and attorney-client communications. This meeting is conducted in accordance with RSMo. 610.021.

• Closed executive session regarding litigation and legal action

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council will hold a study session to review FIFA World Cup policy updates, an annual legislative report, and communications strategies for sales tax and bond measures. The meeting will also include a resolution to repeal a previous council resolution regarding boards and commissions recordings.

• Repeal of Resolution No. 6906 regarding boards and commissions recordings
• FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee Policy Updates
• Annual Legislative Report from John Bardgett & Associates
• Sales Tax and GO Bond Communications Strategy

The June 23, 2025 meeting was a study session. A resolution was read but not discussed or voted on. The council heard presentations on FIFA World Cup policies, the annual legislative report, and a sales‑tax/GO‑bond communications plan. No substantive actions or votes were recorded.

Special Meetings

The City Council will review a proposed City Charter amendment presented by Zach Walker. The Council will also discuss utility operations with the President of Utilities from Springfield, Missouri. Following presentations, the Council will hold a roundtable discussion. The meeting may enter executive session for litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations.

• Review of City Charter amendment presented by Zach Walker
• Discussion with Dwayne Fulk, President of Utilities from the City of Springfield, Missouri
• Potential executive session on matters of litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment is holding a special called meeting to conduct a public hearing. The body will consider a continued case regarding property requirements at 18707 E. 28th Street S.

• Case 25-999-04: Variance request for setback and screen/fence height requirements at 18707 E. 28th Street S

The Board of Adjustment voted to approve a two‑foot height variance and a setback variance for the property at 18707 E. 28th Street S. The height variance was approved with a condition that the applicant limit the reflectivity of the fence material. Both motions passed with recorded vote totals.

• Approved setback variance (Yes 4, No 1, Abstain 0)
• Approved height variance with condition to limit reflective material (Yes 5, No 0, Abstain 0)

Executive Sessions

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

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved the FY 2025-26 operating and capital budget on a 6-1 vote after an amendment passed 7-0. They also approved a rezoning at 11601 E. US 24 Highway from single-family to high-density residential/planned unit development, and held public hearings on a special use permit for a tattoo shop and the formation of the Pavilions at Hartman Heritage Community Improvement District. Several contracts were authorized, including $1.03 million for storm drainage improvements and insurance renewals totaling over $2.2 million. Several ordinances were introduced for future consideration, including a rezoning from industrial to commercial.

• Approved FY 2025-26 budget (Ordinance 25-037 2R) by 6-1 vote after amendment passed 7-0
• Rezoned 11601 E. US 24 Highway from R-6 to R-30/PUD for high-density residential
• Authorized $1,030,103.50 contract with Linaweaver Construction for Barnes Place Storm Drainage Improvements
• Approved insurance renewals: workers' comp $452,250, utility property $832,274, non-utility property $924,570
• Held public hearing and approved formation of Pavilions at Hartman Heritage Community Improvement District

The council adopted the 2025‑26 operating and capital budget, amended it to reallocate $400,000, and approved several purchase orders and construction contracts totaling over $1.5 million. It also approved the rezoning of 11601 E US 24 Highway to R‑30/PUD and a special use permit for a tattoo shop at 18801 E 39th Street. Additionally, a retail beer license for Next Level Soccer Training was approved by a 6‑1 vote.

• Adopted 2025‑26 operating and capital budget (amendment 7‑0, budget item 6‑1)
• Approved $395,636 purchase order for two bucket trucks (Altec Industries) (7‑0)
• Approved $136,000 purchase order for overhead cable puller (Altec Industries) (7‑0)
• Authorized $1,030,103.50 contract for Barnes Place Storm Drainage Improvements (7‑0)
• Approved $228,392.14 purchase order for utility billing system maintenance (7‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 11601 E US 24 Highway to R‑30/PUD (7‑0)
• Approved special use permit for tattoo shop at 18801 E 39th Street (7‑0)
• Approved retail beer license for Next Level Soccer Training at 13801 E 42nd Terr (6‑1)

Public Hearings

The Independence Personnel Board will hold public hearings to propose changes to the Personnel Policies & Procedures Manual regarding holidays, leave of absence, sick leave, and disciplinary actions. The meeting is scheduled for June 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM.

• Public hearing on proposed changes to holiday policies
• Public hearing on proposed changes to leave of absence policies
• Public hearing on proposed changes to sick leave policies
• Public hearing on proposed changes to separation and disciplinary action policies
• Approval of May 9, 2025 meeting minutes

The Personnel Board approved the minutes from the May 9, 2025 meeting. It then conducted public hearings on proposed changes to Articles IV, V, and VI of the City of Independence Personnel Policies & Procedures Manual, covering holidays, leave of absence, sick leave, and separation/disciplinary actions. No other actions were taken.

• Approved May 9, 2025 meeting minutes

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Public Utility Advisory Board will hear reports on April 2025 financials, storm restoration efforts, and summer plans to address increased energy use. Updates on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and utility governance are also scheduled. No votes or ordinances are listed.

• Update on storm restoration
• Summer plans for increased energy use
• Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) update
• Utility financial reports - April 2025
• Utility governance update

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Sustainability Commission will consider approving minutes from May 22, 2025, and discuss old business including an award for a local business or individual and the Bike Ride of Historic Places tentatively set for October 11, 2025. Commissioners will also review 2025 priorities, specifically a waste evaluation at Independence Cable Dahmer Arena. No new business items are listed.

• Approval of May 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on award for local business or individual
• Bike Ride of Historic Places – tentative date Saturday, Oct 11, 2025, visiting Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, and Bingham Waggoner
• 2025 Commission priorities discussion: Independence Cable Dahmer Arena Waste Evaluation

The Sustainability Commission approved the May 22, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to end the planned partnership with Bold ReUse, noting the arena's progress on reducing disposable cup waste. The commission set a tentative date of Saturday, Oct 11, 2025 for a Bike Ride of Historic Places and assigned staff to follow up on event logistics and a potential Square cleanup.

• Approved May 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided partnership with Bold ReUse is no longer a goal
• Set tentative date for Bike Ride of Historic Places on Oct 11, 2025
• Assigned Maureen to discuss potential Square cleanup with Square Commission
• Assigned Tony to contact locations for bike ride scheduling
• Assigned Maureen to talk to a contact about the bike ride

General

The Independence Tree Commission will hold its regular meeting, including approval of minutes from May 21 and discussion of new business items such as the Urban Lumber Tour, the City Tree Ordinance, and a Tree Tour. The meeting also includes a Tree Talk segment.

• Urban Lumber Tour
• City Tree Ordinance
• Tree Tour

The commission approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. No other actions were formally adopted, denied, or postponed. The meeting adjourned at 6:45 pm.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes

Special Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee holds a special meeting to discuss the 4th of July event location, review a council presentation, review website creation, give committee updates, and discuss funding.

• 4th of July update including location discussion
• Council presentation review
• Website creation overview
• Committee updates
• Funding discussion

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee approved new permits and regulations for the FIFA event period of June 1–August 17, 2026. The committee tentatively set the event date for June 26, 2026 at the Mormon Visitor Center. A $500 application fee for temporary short‑term rentals was proposed but not adopted at this meeting. The committee will present its policy recommendations to City Council on June 23, 2025.

• Approved new permits and regulations for FIFA period June 1–August 17, 2026 (no vote tally recorded)
• Tentatively set event date for June 26, 2026 at Mormon Visitor Center
• Proposed $500 application fee for temporary short‑term rental approvals (proposal, not adopted)

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will consider two rezoning requests to Single Family Residential and a special use permit for a convenience store. The body will also discuss an amendment to billboard setback requirements and a short-term rental request.

• Case 25-100-13: Rezoning 15430 & 15440 E. US 24 Highway to R-6 (Single Family Residential)
• Case 25-100-14: Rezoning 11307 Aaron Lane to R-6 (Single Family Residential)
• Case 25-200-06: Special Use Permit for On The Square Convenience at 104 E. Lexington Avenue
• Case 25-175-02: UDO Amendment #73 regarding billboard setback requirements
• Case 25-400-05: Short-Term Rental request for 14901 E. 40th St S

The commission unanimously approved the Consent Agenda and several development requests, including rezoning of two properties and a special‑use permit for a convenience store. It adopted UDO Amendment #73 on billboard setback requirements with a 6‑1 vote. The short‑term rental application was moved up the agenda and recommended for approval, pending City Council action.

• Approved Consent Agenda (7‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 15430 & 15440 E. US 24 Highway to R‑6 (7‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 11307 Aaron Lane to R‑6 (7‑0)
• Approved special use permit for On The Square Convenience at 104 E. Lexington Ave (7‑0)
• Approved UDO Amendment #73 on billboard setback requirements (6‑1)
• Moved short‑term rental case 14901 E. 40th St S up the agenda (7‑0)
• Recommended approval of short‑term rental request (7‑0)

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to receive updates on the economic development partnership, workers' compensation insurance renewal, the Palmer Senior Center, and the short-term rental ordinance. No formal votes are scheduled. A closed session may follow for legal, personnel, or contract matters.

• Independence Economic Development Partnership Update
• Workers' Compensation Insurance Renewal
• Palmer Senior Center Update
• Short-Term Rental Ordinance Update
• Boards and Commissions Report (information only)

On June 9, 2025, Independence City Council met for a study session in the Council Chambers. The council heard presentations on the Independence Economic Development Partnership, workers’ compensation insurance options, the Palmer Senior Center, and the short‑term rental ordinance. The session was informational only and did not include any votes, approvals, or other formal actions. No decisions were recorded.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Advisory Board of Health meets virtually on June 5, 2025. The agenda includes discussion of vacancies and appointments, and new business. No specific proposals or decisions are listed.

• Vacancies and appointments discussion
• New business (unspecified)

The Independence Advisory Board of Health meeting on June 5, 2025 was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were discussed or decided.

Audit and Finance Committee

The Audit and Finance Committee will meet to discuss financial updates and specific tax and payment matters. The body is reviewing the Street Improvements Sales Tax and Spire payments.

• Street Improvements Sales Tax
• Spire Payments
• Investment Performance Review
• Animal Shelter Review
• Risk Management & Workers Compensation Update

The committee approved the minutes from the March 19, 2025 meeting. Councilmember Perkins moved to approve, Councilmember Wiley seconded, and all members present voted in favor. No other agenda items resulted in formal decisions; the remaining topics were discussed without a vote.

• Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The committee will approve the minutes from its previous meeting and review reports from the health department, AMR emergency responses, fire emergency responses, the medical director, Centerpoint, the IPD & Communication Center, and regional emergency preparedness. It will also receive an update on the ARCH Co‑Responder program. The meeting may include a vote to close a portion of the session under RSMo Section 610.021(5) to discuss non‑judicial health proceedings.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Review health department and emergency response reports
• Receive ARCH Co‑Responder program update
• Potential vote to close part of meeting under RSMo Section 610.021(5)
• Executive session

The June 3, 2025 Emergency Medical Services Committee meeting was cancelled and not held. No agenda items were discussed, approved, denied, or tabled.

Executive Sessions

This agenda is purely procedural: the City Council will convene in a closed executive session to discuss litigation, legal action, and attorney-client communications as permitted by state statute. No public decisions or discussions are listed.

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

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY 2025-26 budget and consider its adoption. Other actions include a public hearing on auto repair zoning amendments, approval of a contract for sidewalk projects not exceeding $490,694.50, and ordinances banning metal detecting in parks and terminating TIF for the Santa Fe Trail Redevelopment Area. Several first-readings include a rezoning at 11601 E. US 24 Highway and a special use permit for a body art establishment.

• Public hearing and first reading of FY 2025-26 budget adoption
• Approval of construction contract with Linaweaver Construction for Vaile Sidewalks Phase 2 and 31st Street Sidewalk projects (total $490,694.50)
• Ordinance banning metal detecting, prospecting, and treasure hunting in city parks and public spaces (passes 6-0)
• First reading of rezoning from R-6 to R-30/PUD at 11601 E. US 24 Highway
• First reading of ordinance terminating tax increment financing for Santa Fe Trail Redevelopment Area

The council voted 6‑0 to authorize a contract up to $490,694.50 for the Vaile Sidewalks Phase 2 and 31st Street Sidewalk projects, including up to $49,069.45 for minor change orders. It also approved several resolutions and ordinances, including a recognition of Detective John Roach, a tourism marketing agreement, and updates to auto‑repair, private‑security, park‑use, and tourism‑commission codes. An ordinance to amend the procurement policy failed to pass, with a 3‑3 tie.

• Approved $490,694.50 sidewalk contract for Vaile and 31st Street projects (6-0)
• Approved Resolution recognizing Detective John Roach as I‑STAR Award recipient (6-0)
• Approved Resolution establishing Destination Marketing Organization agreement (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending auto‑repair code in Unified Development Ordinance (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending private security guard regulations (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance prohibiting metal detecting in city parks (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance repealing the Tourism Commission (6-0)
• Failed ordinance amending procurement policy; vote tied 3‑3 (fails)

Special Meetings

The City Council will hear budget presentations from six city departments and offices. No formal votes are scheduled; the session is informational. The council may later convene a closed executive session for legal, personnel, or contract matters.

• Budget presentation: City Manager's Office, Emergency Preparedness, and Communications
• Budget presentation: Community Development
• Budget presentation: Parks, Recreation, and Tourism
• Budget presentation: Fire
• Budget presentation: Independence Power and Light

The council approved several budget items, including a $100,000 package for the Independence Together program and a $5,000 camera purchase for Communications. It also approved $350,000 for transit service, $50,000 for code‑enforcement, and $400,000 for dangerous‑building demolition. Personnel additions were approved for Parks & Recreation, and a $10 million transfer was allocated to the Fire Protection Sales Tax Fund for fire‑related capital projects.

• Approved $100,000 Independence Together program budget package
• Approved $5,000 camera purchase for Communications
• Approved $350,000 transit funding to sustain service levels
• Approved $50,000 additional code‑enforcement funding
• Approved $400,000 dangerous‑building demolition funding from Marijuana Sales Tax Fund
• Approved personnel additions: Museum Services Coordinator, Customer Services Attendant, Recreation Programmer
• Approved expanded operating‑hour funding for Palmer Center, Sermon Center, and National Frontier Trails Museum
• Approved $10,000,000 transfer to Fire Protection Sales Tax Fund for fire capital projects

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will hold a virtual meeting to discuss and select nominees for the ICON Award, alongside open discussion. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• ICON Award nomination and selection process

The commission voted 5-0 to name Rev. Mondaine and Ms. Rose as ICON Award recipients. The award will be presented at the Pride Event at Englewood Arts on June 28, 2025. Members agreed to hold a special meeting on July 15, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. via Microsoft Teams. The meeting was adjourned at 4:20 p.m.

• Selected Rev. Mondaine and Ms. Rose as ICON Award recipients (5-0)
• Scheduled special meeting for July 15, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. via Microsoft Teams
• Adjourned meeting at 4:20 p.m.

Special Meetings

This is a study session where the City Council will receive budget presentations from six departments: Municipal Services, Health and Animal Services, Tech Services, Human Resources, Police, and Finance/Law. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is informational only. The council may also convene a closed executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations.

• Budget presentation: Municipal Services
• Budget presentation: Health and Animal Services
• Budget presentation: Tech Services
• Budget presentation: Human Resources
• Budget presentation: Police

The council approved five budget packages for Municipal Services, including a $95,000 mini excavator and a $350,000 sewer district allocation. It also approved a $91,575 incinerator replacement for Health and Animal Services. No other formal votes or decisions were recorded in the study session.

• Approved mini excavator purchase for $95,000 (Municipal Services)
• Approved $350,000 funding for Little Blue Valley Sewer District (Municipal Services)
• Approved $45,000 for four chlorine analyzer replacements (Municipal Services)
• Approved $45,000 for six well flow meters (Municipal Services)
• Approved $20,000 for service line notifications (Municipal Services)
• Approved $91,575 incinerator replacement (Health and Animal Services)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The commission will consider old business including an update on a sustainability award for a local business or individual and a bike ride of historic places with a new tentative date. New business focuses on setting 2025 priorities, particularly a waste evaluation at the Independence Cable Dahmer Arena.

• Award for local business or individual update
• Bike Ride of Historic Places – new tentative date with stops at Frontiers Museum, Railroad Museum, and Bingham-Waggoner
• 2025 Commission priorities – Independence Cable Dahmer Arena Waste Evaluation
• Approval of January 9, 2025 meeting minutes

The Independence Sustainability Commission met on May 22, 2025 and approved the minutes from its January 9, 2025 meeting. The commission also reviewed award nominations, a tentative bike‑ride event, and outlined upcoming priorities such as a waste‑evaluation at Independence Cable Dahmer Arena and the status of EV chargers on the Square. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved January 9, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee is meeting to review financial statements and receive updates from HR and Cigna. The body will also discuss wellness activities and conduct an annual review of Cigna.

• Cigna Annual Review
• Financial statement presentation by Finance Department
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• Wellness activities update

The Stay Well Committee presented March 2025 financial statements, a Cigna update adding Liberty Hospital to Local Plus, and a CBiz medical financial overview. No motions were voted on or approved. The meeting concluded with scheduling the next session for June 24, 2025.

General

The Independence Tree Commission will review the Independence Square Streetscape Plan presented by Jeff and Cindi Rogers. The commission will also recap the Uptown Garden Faire and discuss the Woodlawn Cemetery tree planting. The meeting includes approval of minutes from April 9, 2025 and ends with adjournment.

• Uptown Garden Faire recap
• Woodlawn Cemetery tree planting discussion
• Independence Square Streetscape Plan presentation

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved contracts for on-demand micro‑transit services, design work on the Bundschu Regional Detention Basin Project, and emergency stormwater repairs at 45th Street and Noland Road. It adopted several ordinances covering utility easements for the Nickell Avenue Culvert Replacement Project, dangerous buildings, budget amendments, alcohol regulations, and the recent bond election results. A resolution transferred oversight of the $55 million General Obligation Bond to the Street Improvement Oversight Committee.

• Authorize $804,200 contract with WHC SAF, LLC for on‑demand micro‑transit (July 1 2025 – June 30 2026)
• Authorize up to $139,460 design contract with Renaissance Infrastructure Consulting for the Bundschu Regional Detention Basin Project
• Authorize up to $112,518 purchase order to Wiedenmann Construction for emergency stormwater repairs at 45th Street and Noland Road
• Resolution assigning oversight of the $55,000,000 General Obligation Bond to the Street Improvement Oversight Committee
• Ordinance 25‑027 establishing utility and temporary construction easements for the Nickell Avenue Culvert Replacement Project

The council approved contracts for on‑demand micro‑transit, a detention‑basin design, and emergency storm‑water repairs, and adopted ordinances covering utility easements, dangerous buildings, budget updates, alcohol sales, and the recent bond election. It also passed a resolution giving the Street Improvement Oversight Committee authority over the $55 million General Obligation Bond. All items were approved unanimously where votes were recorded.

• Suspended rules to allow non‑residents to speak (7‑0)
• Adopted EMS Week proclamation for May 18‑24 2025 (7‑0)
• Approved $804,200 micro‑transit contract with WHC SAF, LLC
• Approved $139,460 design contract for Bundschu Regional Detention Basin Project
• Approved $112,518 purchase order for stormwater repairs at 45th St & Noland Rd
• Assigned oversight of $55,000,000 GO bond to Street Improvement Oversight Committee (7‑0)
• Adopted ordinance for utility easements for Nickell Avenue Culvert Replacement (7‑0)
• Amended code on dangerous buildings (7‑0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Public Utility Advisory Board will consider a resolution suggesting an analog opt-out for the city's Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). Members will also receive updates on purchasing community solar farms, the Independence Municipal Commons move, and financial reports for March 2025.

• Resolution suggesting analog opt-out for AMI
• Update on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
• Update on possibility of purchasing Community Solar Farms
• Update on Independence Municipal Commons (IMC) move
• Review of Utility Financial Reports for March 2025

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment meeting on May 15, 2025, was effectively cancelled because a quorum was not present. All three public hearing items listed on the agenda have been continued to the July 17, 2025 meeting. The items include variance requests for setback and fence height at three properties.

• Case 25-999-04 – 18707 E. 28th Street S – Variance to setback and screen/fence height requirements
• Case 25-999-06 – 201 E. Partridge Avenue – Variance to front yard fence height requirements
• Case 25-999-07 – 811 S. Liberty Street – Variance to setback requirements

The Board of Adjustment did not have a quorum, so the three variance cases were continued to the July 17, 2025 meeting. The board approved the minutes from the March 20, 2025 and April 17, 2025 meetings. No other actions were taken.

• Continued Case 25-999-04 (18707 E. 28th Street S) to July 17, 2025
• Continued Case 25-999-06 (201 E. Partridge Avenue) to July 17, 2025
• Continued Case 25-999-07 (811 S. Liberty Street) to July 17, 2025
• Approved March 20, 2025 minutes
• Approved April 17, 2025 minutes

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will hear updates on the student delegate program and host family recruiting plans. They will also finalize plans for transferring email accounts and documents. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and announcements.

• Approve prior meeting minutes
• Student delegate program update
• Host families recruiting plans and progress
• Finalize plans for transfer of email accounts and documents
• Items from the floor

The committee approved the April meeting minutes. It approved using collected funds to pay for student t‑shirts and travel insurance. It also approved refunding the remaining $150 per student after expenses. The meeting was then formally adjourned.

• Approved April meeting minutes (show of hands)
• Approved payment for student t‑shirts (show of hands)
• Approved payment for travel insurance from student funds (show of hands)
• Approved refund of excess student payments after expenses (unanimous show of hands)
• Moved to adjourn the meeting (motion carried)

Council Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee is meeting to hear updates from its Policy, Communications, and Events and Celebrations groups, and to discuss a Visitor's Guide. No votes, contracts, or specific decisions are listed on this agenda; it appears to be a routine update session.

• Discussion of Visitor's Guide
• Update from Policy Group
• Update from Communications Group
• Update from Events and Celebrations Group

Advisory Committee Meetings

The commission will vote on revisions to its bylaws and discuss or select the ICON Award. They will also approve meeting minutes from March 11, 2025, and hold open discussion. No major budgetary or land-use decisions are on the agenda.

• Approval of March 11, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of Bylaws Revisions
• ICON Award discussion/selection
• Open Discussion

The Human Relations Commission did not have enough members present for a quorum, so the May 13, 2025 meeting was postponed. No agenda items were approved, denied, or tabled. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. via Teams. Attendees present were Helen Hurley, Mara Bradford, Mindy Meadows, and Charlene Gray.

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding land use changes and development plans. The body will review a rezoning request and a special use permit for a convenience store, as well as a development plan for a body shop.

• Case 25-100-02: Rezoning 13893 E 35th Street Ct S from I-1 (Industrial) to C-2 (General Commercial)
• Case 25-200-01: Special Use Permit for Noland Market to operate a convenience store at 13893 E. 35th Street Ct S
• Case 25-810-01: Preliminary Development Plan for a body shop at 1550 S. Noland Road

The Planning Commission approved its consent agenda unanimously. It then approved the rezoning of 13893 E 35 th Street Ct S from industrial to general commercial, the special‑use permit for a convenience store at the same address, and a preliminary development plan for a body shop at 1550 S. Noland Road. All three cases passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved Consent Agenda (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 13893 E 35 th Street Ct S to C‑2 (5-0)
• Approved special‑use permit for convenience store at 13893 E. 35 th Street Ct S (5-0)
• Approved preliminary development plan for body shop at 1550 S. Noland Road (5-0)

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to receive presentations on an IRIS update and the proposed 2025-26 budget. No formal votes are scheduled. The council may later convene an executive session on matters allowed by state law.

• IRIS Update presentation
• 2025-26 Proposed Budget Presentation
• Possible executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations

The council held a study session to hear a data‑driven update on the IRIS transit service and a presentation of the FY 25‑26 proposed budget. No motions, votes, or formal approvals were recorded. The IRIS one‑year contract will be considered at a later meeting, and the budget will be heard at the public budget hearing on June 2, 2025.

Special Meetings

The Personnel Board is meeting to review and update language regarding holiday pay, sick time, and employee separations. The board will also discuss the development of a drug and alcohol policy for CDL-DOT drivers.

• Review of Holiday Pay and Observed Holidays (President's Day) language
• Review of Sick Time for Probationary Employees language
• Review of Extended Leave language
• Review of Termination/Separation language
• Development of CDL - DOT Drug and Alcohol policy

The Personnel Board approved the February 14, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It voted to refer six proposed changes to the Personnel Policies and Procedures—holiday pay, observed holidays, sick time for probationary employees, extended leave, termination/separation, and probationary employee transfer/promotion—to a public hearing, each with unanimous support. The board then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved February 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Moved Holiday Pay language review to public hearing (unanimous)
• Moved Observed Holidays language update to public hearing (unanimous)
• Moved Sick Time for Probationary Employees language review to public hearing (unanimous)
• Moved Extended Leave language review to public hearing (unanimous)
• Moved Termination/Separation language review to public hearing (unanimous)
• Moved Probationary Employees Transfer/Promotion language review to public hearing (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Tourism Commission will receive staff reports on its budget, tourism initiatives, and marketing efforts. It will also hear updates on the Truman Depot renovation and caboose restoration, as well as on tourism reorganization and the Visit Independence CVB. No formal decisions are indicated; the items are presented for information and discussion.

• Budget staff report
• Tourism, NFTM, and Historic Sites staff report
• Marketing and Social Media staff report
• Truman Depot renovation and caboose restoration update
• Tourism reorganization & Visit Independence CVB update

The Independence Tourism Commission approved the minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting. The commission also moved to adjourn the May 6, 2025 meeting. No other actions or approvals were recorded.

• Approved Jan 28, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee meets virtually to review reports from the Health Department, AMR emergency responses, fire responses, medical director, Centerpoint, IPD/communications, regional preparedness, and the ARCH co-responder program. The meeting may enter a closed executive session under state law for discussion of nonjudicial mental or physical health proceedings. No specific votes or dollar amounts are on the agenda.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• Medical Director report
• ARCH co-responder program update
• Possible executive session per RSMo. 610.021(5)

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the minutes as written, with a motion by Craig DuPlantis, seconded by Paul Lininger, and unanimous approval. The committee later moved to an executive session and adjourned, with a motion by Paul Lininger, seconded by Craig DuPlantis, and unanimous approval. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Council will meet to review updates on the Legacy Project for the 2026 Parade of Hearts Program. The committee will also receive a presentation from Friends of the Englewood Theatre.

• Update on Legacy Project: TC3 for the 2026 Parade of Hearts Program
• Presentation by Friends of the Englewood Theatre

The commission approved the prior meeting minutes by voice vote, with all members in favor. The commission scheduled its next meeting for July 1, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. and agreed to change future meeting start times to 5:30 p.m. A six‑month contract extension for the Englewood Theatre acquisition effort was noted as authorized.

• Approved prior meeting minutes unanimously (voice vote)
• Scheduled next meeting for July 1, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
• Agreed to move future meeting start times to 5:30 p.m.
• Authorized a six‑month contract extension for the Englewood Theatre project

General

The Heritage Commission will consider a certificate of appropriateness for new vinyl windows at 417 N. Delaware Avenue, and discuss updates to the design guidelines. Staff will also report on Section 106 reviews for properties on Hocker Terrace.

• Consider certificate of appropriateness for vinyl windows at 417 N. Delaware Avenue
• Discussion of design guidelines update
• Section 106 reviews for Hocker Heights addresses: 537-539, 552-558, 560-566 N. Hocker Terrace

The Heritage Commission accepted the meeting agenda (7‑0) and the April 1 minutes (6‑0). A proposal to install vinyl windows at 417 North Delaware Avenue was rejected (2‑5). The commission then approved installing white, 1‑over‑1 fiberglass windows at the same address (7‑0). No vote was taken on the design‑guidelines update.

• Accept agenda (7‑0, Rushay abstained)
• Accept April 1 minutes (6‑0, Herndon and Rushay abstained)
• Reject vinyl windows at 417 N. Delaware Ave (2‑5, Rushay abstained)
• Approve white fiberglass windows at 417 N. Delaware Ave (7‑0, Rushay abstained)

Special Meetings

The Industrial Development Authority holds a special meeting to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss an engagement letter with Stifel regarding the Wally's Independence Project. No other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Consideration of Stifel Engagement Letter for Wally's Independence Project
• Approval of August 8, 2024 minutes

Council Meetings

The Council approved a consent agenda including a $3,947,904.63 contract with Vance Brothers for pavement preventative maintenance and a $200,000 increase to Davenport Construction for asphalt street cut repairs. Public hearings were held on rezoning properties on Zaun/Hocker Avenues (I-1 to R-6) and Jackson Drive (O-1 to C-2), and on renaming Necessary Road to S. Pop Warner Drive. Additionally, ordinances were introduced for Sidewalks Phase 2 eminent domain, Nickell Avenue culvert replacement, dangerous buildings code changes, budget amendments, alcohol code updates, and April bond election results.

• $3,947,904.63 contract to Vance Brothers for Pavement Preventative Maintenance Operations Project
• $200,000 increase to Davenport Construction for asphalt street cut repairs (total $1,100,000)
• Rezoning of properties on Zaun and Hocker Avenues from I-1 (Industrial) to R-6 (Single-Family Residential)
• Rezoning of 20201 & 20221 E. Jackson Drive from O-1 (Office Residential) to C-2 (General Commercial)
• Street name change of Necessary Road to S. Pop Warner Drive

The City Council authorized a $3,947,904.63 contract with Vance Brothers for the Pavement Preventative Maintenance Operations Project, including up to $394,790.46 for change orders. It also approved an additional $200,000 for Davenport Construction, raising that street‑repair contract to $1,100,000. All items were adopted unanimously (6‑0).

• Approved $200,000 additional expenditure to Davenport Construction for asphalt repairs (total $1,100,000) – 6-0
• Authorized Vance Brothers contract up to $3,947,904.63 for pavement maintenance, with change orders up to $394,790.46 – 6-0
• Approved rezoning of 32 lots on Zaun Ave and Hocker Ave from I‑1 to R‑6 – 6-0
• Approved rezoning of 20201 & 20221 E. Jackson Drive from O‑1 to C‑2 – 6-0
• Approved street name change from Necessary Road to Pop Warner Drive – 6-0
• Approved ordinance creating temporary construction easements for Sidewalks Program Phase 2 – 6-0
• Approved resolution recognizing James Walton, Engineer III, as ISTAR Award recipient – 6-0
• Approved proclamation recognizing May as National Historic Preservation Month – 6-0

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Park Commission will review staff reports on budget, facilities, recreation services, and promotions. It will consider old business items, including a General Obligation Bond and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The commission will also provide updates on projects funded by the Parks Improvement Sales Tax.

• General Obligation Bond discussion
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan review
• Budget staff report
• Parks, Facilities & Grounds staff report
• Recreation Services staff report

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Street Improvement Oversight Committee is meeting to discuss general obligation (GO) bonds related to street improvements. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; the primary item is a discussion under new business.

• New business: GO bond discussion for street improvements

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a rezoning request for a planned unit development and a special use permit for a tattoo shop. Two other cases regarding rezoning and a short-term rental are requested to be continued to June 10, 2025.

• Case 25-125-01: Rezoning 11601 E. US 24 Highway from R-6 to R-30/PUD for high density residential
• Case 25-200-04: Special Use Permit for Distinguished Body Art tattoo shop at 18801 E. 39th Street #D09D
• Case 25-100-12: Requested continuance for rezoning at 12939 E. US 40 Highway and 4611 S. Norfleet Road
• Case 24-400-06: Requested continuance for short-term rental at 300 N. Cedar Ave

The commission approved the consent agenda, including the April 15 minutes. Two pending cases – a rezoning request on US 40/Norfleet Road and a short‑term rental request on N. Cedar Ave – were continued to the June 10 meeting. The commission also approved the rezoning/PUD for 11601 E. US 24 Highway and a special‑use permit for a tattoo shop at 18801 E. 39th Street.

• Approved Consent Agenda (including April 15 minutes) (5-0)
• Continued rezoning case 25-100-12 to June 10, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued short‑term rental case 24-400-06 to June 10, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved rezoning/PUD case 25-125-01 at 11601 E. US 24 Highway (6-0)
• Approved special‑use permit case 25-200-04 for tattoo shop at 18801 E. 39th St #D09D (6-0)

Council Meetings

The City Council is discussing a resolution to formally assign oversight of the $55 million General Obligation Bond (approved April 8, 2025) to the Street Improvement Oversight Committee. An ordinance amending Chapter 8 Article 6 on purchases and sales is also proposed. Multiple semi-annual reports and a financial report will be presented. No citizen requests are eligible per council rules.

• Resolution assigning oversight of $55,000,000 General Obligation Bond to Street Improvement Oversight Committee
• Ordinance amending Chapter 8 Article 6 'Purchases and Sales' Section 3 and directing City Manager to amend Procurement Policy
• Presentation of 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Semi-annual reports from Independence Park Commission, Tourism Commission, Stormwater Oversight Committee, Street Improvements Oversight Committee, and Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee
• Certified election results for April 2025 regarding the General Obligation Bond

The council did not adopt any measures during the April 28 study session. A resolution assigning oversight of the $55 million General Obligation Bond to the Street Improvement Oversight Committee was moved to the May 19 agenda. An ordinance amending the procurement policy was also placed on the May 19 agenda.

• Resolution on $55M bond oversight postponed to May 19 agenda
• Ordinance amending procurement policy postponed to May 19 agenda

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee is holding a special meeting to review financial statements, receive updates from CIGNA and HR, and discuss wellness activities. The agenda contains only procedural and informational items with no votes or decisions listed. No specific actions or proposals are scheduled.

• Financial statement presented by Finance Department
• Update from CIGNA by Carol Buckner Ayers and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• Update from HR by Bethany Dickey
• Wellness activities update by Selena Good

The Stay Well Committee reviewed March 2025 financial statements and heard updates from Cigna, CBiz, and HR, which reported no new information. Wellness activities for May were announced, including Mental Health Awareness Month and a new on‑site counselor. No motions were voted on or decisions recorded.

Special Meetings

The City Council will meet to review governance recommendations for DKMT and the City of Independence Utilities. The meeting includes presentations from Heather Bailey and IPL Director Joseph Hegendeffer.

• Review of DKMT Governance Recommendations
• Review of City of Independence Utilities Governance Recommendations

Special Meetings

The Independence Industrial Development Authority will hold a special meeting on April 21, 2025, at City Hall. The board will vote on approving the August 8, 2024 meeting minutes and discuss a proposed engagement letter from Stifel related to the Wally's Independence Project. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Approval of August 8, 2024 meeting minutes
• Stifel Engagement Letter for Wally's Independence Project

Special Meetings

The City Council approved a rezoning of 420 S. M291 Highway from commercial to industrial, passed an ordinance adopting the 2022 FDA Model Food Code, and approved a multi-year radio system maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions for the Police Department. The council also authorized a change order for the Square Streetscape Project increasing the total to $2,626,929.50 and approved $907,356 for a truck shed for Power & Light. First readings were held for rezonings along Zaun/Hocker Avenues and at 20201/20221 E. Jackson Drive, and for renaming a segment of Necessary Road to S. Pop Warner Drive.

• Rezoning of 420 S. M291 Highway from C-2 to I-1 Industrial (passed 6-1)
• Multi-year Radio System Maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions for Police Department (passed 7-0)
• Change Order #1 for Square Streetscape Project, total contract increased to $2,626,929.50 (passed 7-0)
• Expenditure of $907,356 for a truck shed for Power & Light Transmission and Distribution (passed 7-0)
• Adoption of 2022 FDA Model Food Code as local food establishment sanitation code (passed 7-0)

The council approved a rezoning of the property at 420 S. M‑291 Highway from General Commercial to Industrial (6‑1 vote). It also approved a $2,626,929.50 change order for the Square Streetscape Project and a $907,356 truck‑shed contract for the Power & Light Department, each unanimously. Additional actions included adopting the 2022 FDA Model Food Code, updating animal‑ownership regulations, authorizing reward money for cold‑case investigations, and committing to the Legacy Project Parade of Hearts, all passing unanimously.

• Approved rezoning of 420 S. M‑291 Highway to Industrial (6‑1)
• Approved $2,626,929.50 change order for Square Streetscape Project (7‑0)
• Approved $907,356 truck‑shed contract for Power & Light Department (7‑0)
• Adopted 2022 FDA Model Food Code ordinance (7‑0)
• Adopted animal‑ownership ordinance (7‑0)
• Authorized reward money for cold‑case investigations (7‑0)
• Approved participation in Legacy Project Parade of Hearts (7‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (7‑0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Public Utility Advisory Board will discuss a resolution allowing customers to opt out of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and keep analog meters. The board will also hear updates on AMI implementation and IPL governance, and review utility financial reports for February 2025. Approval of meeting minutes from January 16, 2025, is also on the agenda.

• Resolution suggesting an analog opt-out for AMI
• Update on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) implementation
• Update on IPL Governance
• Questions on Utility Financial Reports for February 2025
• Approval of minutes from January 16, 2025, meeting

Council Meetings

The City Council will meet in a closed executive session to discuss litigation, legal action, and attorney-client communications. This is a non-public meeting permitted under RSMo. 610.021.

• Executive session regarding litigation and legal action

Public Hearings

The Independence Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a variance request for setback and screen/fence height requirements at 18707 E. 28th Street S. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from March 20, 2025.

• Case 25-999-04 – Variance to setback and screen/fence height requirements at 18707 E. 28th Street S

The Board of Adjustment voted 4‑0 to continue case 25‑999‑04 (18707 E. 28th Street S) indefinitely. The March 20, 2025 minutes were not approved and will be carried over to the next meeting.

• Continued case 25-999-04 indefinitely (4-0-0)
• Postponed approval of March 20, 2025 minutes to next meeting

Advisory Committee Meetings

This meeting of the Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee consists of status updates from the KC2026 organizing group and subcommittees on policy, communications, and events. No votes or new proposals are scheduled; the agenda is primarily informational and procedural.

• Update from KC2026 organization
• Update from Policy Group
• Update from Communications Group
• Update from Events and Celebrations Group

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will discuss a proposed amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance regarding auto repair. The body will also consider requests for a special sign permit and a short-term rental operation.

• Case 25-175-01: UDO Amendment #72 regarding auto repair
• Case 25-600-02: Special Sign Permit for 20001 E. Jackson Drive
• Case 25-400-03: Short-Term Rental request for 1204 W. 32nd Street

The commission approved its consent agenda unanimously. It also approved a special sign permit for 20001 E. Jackson Drive and a short‑term rental request for 1204 W. 32nd Street, each with a 6‑0 vote. Finally, the commission adopted UDO Amendment #72 to expand auto‑repair related uses along the Miracle Mile, also by a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda (Yes 6, No 0, Abstain 0)
• Approved Special Sign Permit for 20001 E. Jackson Drive (Yes 6, No 0, Abstain 0)
• Approved Short‑Term Rental at 1204 W. 32nd Street (Yes 6, No 0, Abstain 0)
• Approved UDO Amendment #72 for auto‑repair uses (Yes 6, No 0, Abstain 0)

Executive Sessions

The Independence City Council met in a closed executive session on April 14, 2025. The session was called under RSMo 610.021 to discuss real‑estate matters. No specific agenda items or decisions were disclosed in the public agenda.

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council will meet to authorize reward money for unsolved cases and DNA testing, direct participation in the 'Legacy Project: TC3' parade, and hear presentations on emergency preparedness and dispatch criteria.

• Resolution authorizing reward money for unsolved cases and DNA testing
• Resolution directing participation in 'Legacy Project: TC3' parade
• Presentation on Criteria-Based Dispatch
• Presentation on Emergency Preparedness
• Notice of potential Executive Session for litigation, personnel, and contracts

The City Council approved suspending its rules to place a resolution allocating $100,000 from the Marijuana Sales Tax Fund for cold‑case rewards on the April 21 agenda. It also moved a resolution directing the City Manager to join the Legacy Project: TC3 for the 2026 Parade of Hearts to the next meeting agenda. No vote tallies were recorded for either action.

• Suspended rules to schedule cold‑case reward resolution (April 21 agenda)
• Moved Legacy Project participation resolution to next agenda

Personnel Board

The Personnel Board will review and potentially revise language for multiple personnel policies, including holiday pay, observed holidays, sick time for probationary employees, extended leave, termination/separation, and probationary employee transfers/promotions. New business includes development of a CDL DOT drug and alcohol policy.

• Approval of February 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of holiday pay language
• Review of observed holidays language (President's Day)
• Review of sick time for probationary employees
• Development of CDL DOT drug and alcohol policy

The Personnel Board did not achieve a quorum, so the meeting was not held. Consequently, no items were approved, denied, or tabled. The next meeting is scheduled for May 9, 2025 at 10:00 am.

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will discuss and set its 2025 priorities, including a waste evaluation at Independence Cable Dahmer Arena. The commission will also review a new Sustainability Award nomination for 'Bold Reuse' and plan a Bike Ride of Historic Places tentatively set for May 31, 2025.

• Review of Sustainability Award nomination: 'Bold Reuse'
• Tentative date for Bike Ride of Historic Places: May 31, 2025
• 2025 Commission priority: Independence Cable Dahmer Arena Waste Evaluation
• New Commission application review
• New Sustainability Award review

The Sustainability Commission meeting on April 10, 2025 was canceled because a quorum was not present. No agenda items were acted upon or decided.

General

The Independence Tree Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss the City Tree Ordinance, a presentation on George Owens Nature Park, and upcoming events such as the Uptown Garden Faire and a Tree Tour. The Commission will also vote on minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of March 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of George Owens Nature Park with Park Naturalist Jeremiah Coomes
• Review of City Tree Ordinance
• Discussion of Uptown Garden Faire
• Discussion of Tree Tour

The Independence Tree Commission approved the December and March 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners discussed the proposed City Tree Ordinance and will revisit it at the next meeting. They announced that booths for the April 26 Uptown Garden Faire will cost $30 each and can accommodate more vendors. The next regular meeting was rescheduled from May 14 to May 21 due to scheduling conflicts.

• Approved December and March 2025 meeting minutes
• Set booth price at $30 for Uptown Garden Faire vendors
• Rescheduled next meeting to May 21, 2025

Advisory Committee Meetings

The committee will meet to determine payment dates and approve expenditures for student delegate tickets and travel insurance. Members will also discuss host family recruiting and activity planning for the Independence portion of the exchange.

• Approval of ticket expenditure for student delegate
• Authorization of travel insurance expenditure
• Discussion of fall date and fundraising for Matsuri
• Host family recruiting progress updates
• Activity planning strategy for the Independence exchange

The committee approved the March meeting minutes. It set a final student payment deadline of May 7. It approved payment of the $21,773.51 invoice for 11 tickets and authorized up to $300 per traveler for travel insurance. The discussion on the Matsuri fall date and fundraising was postponed.

• Approved March meeting minutes (show of hands)
• Set final student payment deadline to May 7 (show of hands)
• Approved payment of $21,773.51 invoice for 11 tickets (unanimous)
• Approved travel‑insurance expenditure up to $300 per traveler (show of hands)
• Postponed Matsuri fall‑date and fundraising discussion

Council Meetings

The City Council approved borrowing up to $50 million from the Missouri Development Finance Board to finance certain project costs. The council also passed multiple consent agenda items, including a $504,422.80 sewer piping contract, a $96,126 stormwater repair project in the Saddlebrook Subdivision, and agreements for the Justice Center and three fire station projects. A public hearing was held and a rezoning approved for 1009 N. Kiger Road from R-12 to R-6. First readings were held for rezoning at 420 S M-291 Highway and for updates to food establishment and animal codes.

• Borrowing up to $50,000,000 from Missouri Development Finance Board (approved 6-0, mayor absent)
• Purchase order to Insituform Technologies for $504,422.80 for Cured-In-Place Piping
• Stormwater infrastructure repairs in Saddlebrook Subdivision, not to exceed $96,126
• Construction Manager at Risk agreements for Independence Justice Center and Fire Stations 5, 8 & 11
• Rezoning of 1009 N. Kiger Road from R-12 to R-6 (single-family residential) approved

The Independence City Council voted to authorize borrowing of up to $50,000,000 from the Missouri Development Finance Board. The council also approved several purchase orders and construction‑manager‑at‑risk agreements for storm‑water upgrades and new fire stations. A rezoning of 1009 N. Kiger Road from two‑family to single‑family use was adopted. Additionally, a donation for a butterfly garden at George Owens Nature Park was approved.

• Approved borrowing up to $50,000,000 from Missouri Development Finance Board (6-0)
• Approved $504,422.80 purchase order to Insituform Technologies for cured‑in‑place pipe work (7-0)
• Approved up to $96,126 purchase order to Wiedenmann Construction for stormwater repairs (7-0)
• Approved CMAR agreement with McCownGordon Construction for Independence Justice Center (7-0)
• Approved CMAR agreement with Turner Construction for Fire Stations 5, 8 & 11 (7-0)
• Approved amendment to WSKF, Inc. design services for new/replacement fire stations (7-0)
• Approved rezoning of 1009 N. Kiger Road from R‑12 to R‑6 (7-0)
• Approved donation to George Owens Nature Park to create a butterfly garden (7-0)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Street Improvement Oversight Committee will meet to approve January meeting minutes, review a financial dashboard, and receive a report on capital improvement projects.

• Approval of January 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of Financial Dashboard
• Capital Improvement Projects update
• Committee report to City Council

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Advisory Board of Health will meet virtually to approve minutes from February 6, 2025, and receive updates on funding, communicable disease, suicide-prevention strategic planning, and the unsheltered (homeless) work group. No votes on ordinances or contracts are listed; the agenda consists of discussion items.

• Approval of minutes from the February 6, 2025 regular meeting
• Update on funding for health programs
• Communicable disease update
• Suicide-prevention strategic planning discussion
• Unsheltered work group update

The Advisory Board approved the minutes from the February 6, 2025 meeting after a motion and second. The board then unanimously voted to adjourn the session at 6:28 p.m.

• Approved minutes for 2/6/25 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Special Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee will meet virtually to review recent AMR and fire emergency responses, receive updates from the Medical Director and other departments, and hear a report on the ARCH Co-Responder Program. The committee may also vote to close part of the meeting for discussion of nonjudicial mental or physical health proceedings involving identifiable persons.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• ARCH Co-Responder Program update
• Executive session for health proceedings under RSMo 610.021(5)
• Centerpoint updates

The Emergency Medical Services Committee approved the meeting minutes after a motion by Dr. Gustafson and a second by Maggie, with all members voting in favor. A motion to adjourn was made by Ronald Crowden, seconded by Christina Heinen, and again approved by everyone present. No other actions or votes were taken during the meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

General

The Heritage Commission will meet to elect officers, review minutes from February 4, 2025, and consider two Certificates of Appropriateness for construction projects.

• Election of Chair, Vice-chair, and Secretary
• Review minutes from February 4, 2025
• Consider construction addition at 611 West Farmer
• Consider playground equipment at 200 North Delaware

The Heritage Commission approved the meeting agenda and prior minutes, and elected Mark Scherer as Chair, Duane Stephens as Vice‑chair, and Josh Guldner as Secretary. It authorized construction of an addition on a single‑family home at 611 West Farmer and the installation of new playground equipment with removal of two trees at 200 North Delaware. The commission also awarded Pam Fulmer the 2025 Preserve Independence award for Distinguished Service.

• Approved agenda for April 1, 2025 (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Elected Mark Scherer as Chair (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Elected Duane Stephens as Vice‑chair (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Elected Josh Guldner as Secretary (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Approved construction addition at 611 West Farmer (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Approved new playground equipment and removal of two trees at 200 North Delaware (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)
• Awarded Pam Fulmer the 2025 Preserve Independence award (6‑0, Dage and Rushay abstained)

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee will review a financial statement from the Finance Department, an update from Cigna presented by Carol Buckner Ayers and Lisa Phillips, a financial report from CBiz, an HR update from Bethany Dickey, and wellness activity information from Selena Good. No formal decisions are listed; the meeting is for informational updates and scheduling the next meeting.

• Financial statement presentation by the Finance Department
• Cigna health‑insurance update by Carol Buckner Ayers and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presentation by CBiz
• Human Resources update by Bethany Dickey
• Wellness activities presentation by Selena Good

The Stay Well Committee discussed February 2025 financial statements, updates from Cigna and CBiz, and upcoming wellness activities. No approvals, denials, or other actions were recorded. The next meeting is scheduled for April 22, 2025.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three items: two rezonings and a street name change. The first rezoning would convert industrial land along Zaun and Hocker avenues to single-family residential. The second would rezone two properties on E. Jackson Drive from office residential to general commercial. Additionally, a request to rename Necessary Road to Pop Warner Drive will be considered.

• Rezoning of Zaun Ave & Hocker Ave from I-1 (Industrial) to R-6 (Single-Family Residential)
• Rezoning of 20201 & 20221 E. Jackson Drive from O-1 (Office Residential) to C-2 (General Commercial)
• Street name change: Necessary Road to Pop Warner Drive

The commission approved the rezoning of properties on Zaun Avenue and Hocker Avenue from I‑1 to R‑6, and the rezoning of 20201 & 20221 E. Jackson Drive from O‑1 to C‑2. It also approved renaming Necessary Road to Pop Warner Drive. All three motions passed, with votes of 6‑0 for the rezoning cases and 5‑1 for the street name change.

• Approved rezoning of Zaun Ave & Hocker Ave from I-1 to R-6 (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 20201 & 20221 E. Jackson Drive from O-1 to C-2 (6-0)
• Approved renaming of Necessary Road to Pop Warner Drive (5-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda (6-0)

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The Public Safety Tax Oversight Committee will consider accepting quarterly reports from the Fire and Police Departments. The Police Department also presents separate reports on use tax, marijuana tax, and Prop PD tax revenues. The committee will also approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Acceptance of quarterly report from Fire Department
• Acceptance of quarterly report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Use Tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Marijuana Tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of Prop PD Tax report from Police Department

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the September 19, 2024 and January 23, 2025 meetings. It then accepted the Fire Department quarterly report and four Police Department tax reports (general, use, marijuana, and Prop PD). The next meeting was scheduled for June 26, 2025 and the session was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved minutes from Sep 19, 2024 and Jan 23, 2025 meetings (unanimous)
• Accepted Fire Department Quarterly Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Police Department Quarterly Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Police Use Tax Quarterly Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Marijuana Sales Tax Quarterly Report (unanimous)
• Accepted Prop PD Quarterly Report (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for June 26, 2025 at 4:00 pm (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council Meetings

This is a procedural closed executive session with no public decision-making or discussion items. The agenda only includes a note that the council may convene in closed session under state law for litigation and personnel records.

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

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to receive presentations on several city matters. The meeting includes updates on the FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee and a review of GO Bond questions.

• FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee Update
• Chapter 3 Code Changes regarding Reckless Owner and Commercial Breeding
• GO Bond Questions Summary Review

The council met in a study session on March 24, 2025. Presentations were given on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, proposed changes to Chapter 3 of the City Code concerning reckless owners and commercial breeding, and a summary of the upcoming General Obligation Bond. No motions, votes, or formal actions were taken on any of these items.

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Public Utility Advisory Board will discuss IPL governance structure, a strategic plan, and an update on proposed capital improvement projects for fiscal year 2025-26. Reports include financial statements for January 2025 and an update on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). No votes or public hearings are scheduled; this is a discussion and report session.

• Discussion of IPL Governance Structure
• Update on Proposed FY 25-26 Capital Improvement Projects
• Review of Utility Financial Reports - January 2025
• Update on Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on Case 24-999-12, which requests variances to lot standards for properties at 790 and 800 N. Bly Rd. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from February 20, 2025, and standard procedural items.

• Public hearing on Case 24-999-12: variances to lot standards at 790 & 800 N. Bly Rd.

The Independence Board of Adjustment unanimously approved variances for 790 and 800 North Bly Road (5-0). The board also unanimously approved the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0). No other actions were taken.

• Approved variances for 790 & 800 N. Bly Rd. (5-0)
• Approved February 20, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Audit and Finance Committee

The Audit and Finance Committee will review the utility billing report, discuss a proposed Council Travel Resolution, and receive an update on the city's monthly financials.

• Utility billing review
• Council Travel Resolution proposal
• Monthly financials update

The committee approved the minutes of the January 29, 2025 meeting after Councilmember Wiley moved to approve them, Councilmember Fears seconded, and all present voted in favor. No other motions were adopted; the committee discussed the utility billing review, a council travel resolution, and a monthly financial update but took no further formal actions.

• Approved Jan 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council Meetings

The council will hold public hearings on two rezoning requests: 10900 E. Truman Road from industrial/commercial/residential to industrial, and 336 N. Hocker Avenue from industrial to single-family residential. A full public hearing will be held for a retail liquor license for Harvey's Happy Hour at 10129 E. US 40 Hwy. The council also introduced an ordinance to borrow up to $50 million from the Missouri Development Finance Board for project costs. Consent agenda items include an asphalt overlay contract ($2.18M), liability insurance ($875k), fire department turnout gear ($170k), and lawn mowing contracts.

• Borrow up to $50M from Missouri Development Finance Board (first reading)
• Rezone 10900 E. Truman Road to I-1 Industrial (public hearing + ordinance)
• Rezone 336 N. Hocker Avenue to R-6 Single-Family Residential (public hearing + ordinance)
• Pavement preventative maintenance contract with Superior Bowen Asphalt Co., LLC, not to exceed $2,180,880.67
• Retail liquor license for Harvey's Happy Hour at 10129 E. US 40 Hwy (public hearing)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission is meeting to discuss local sustainability priorities and awards. The body will review a nomination for Bold Reuse and evaluate waste at the Independence Cable Dahmer Arena.

• Review of Bold Reuse award nomination
• Planning for Bike Ride of Historic Places on May 31, 2025
• Waste evaluation of Independence Cable Dahmer Arena

General

The Independence Tree Commission will discuss the proposed City Tree Ordinance. It will also review plans for the Uptown Garden Faire. The commission will vote on approval of minutes from its November 13 and December 11, 2024 meetings.

• Approve minutes from November 13, 2024 meeting
• Approve minutes from December 11, 2024 meeting
• Consider City Tree Ordinance
• Discuss Uptown Garden Faire

Advisory Committee Meetings

This is a routine meeting of the Japanese Sister City Committee to approve prior minutes and receive updates on the student delegate program, the Matsuri festival, and host families. No fiscal decisions or ordinance changes are on the agenda. The meeting will also include announcements, items from the floor, and planning for next month's agenda.

• Approve prior minutes
• Student delegate update
• Matsuri update
• Host families update
• Items from the floor

Advisory Committee Meetings

The committee will meet to receive updates from the Events, Communications, and Policy groups. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Parade of Hearts.

• Update from Events group
• Update from Communications group
• Update from Policy group
• Parade of Hearts

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will meet to vote on bylaws revisions and elect new officers. The body will also discuss its budget and the ICON Award.

• Proposed bylaws revisions
• Nomination and election of officers
• Budget update discussion
• ICON Award discussion

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone 420 S. M-291 Highway from C-2 (General Commercial) to I-1 (Industrial). They will also consider two requests for short-term rental operations at 910 W. Waldo Ave and 2120 N. McBride Ave, and discuss the Capital Improvements Program.

• Public hearing on rezoning case 25-100-09 at 420 S. M-291 Highway from C-2 to I-1
• Short-term rental request case 25-400-01 at 910 W. Waldo Ave
• Short-term rental request case 25-400-02 at 2120 N. McBride Ave
• Discussion of Capital Improvements Program

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session with presentations on the Annual Financial Statement, liability insurance renewal, rental ready inspections, and an overview of GO Bond Question 2 for bridges and culverts. These are informational items; no votes are scheduled. The Council may convene in executive session for legal, personnel, contract, real estate, or labor matters.

• GO Bond Question 2 Overview: Bridges & Culverts
• Rental Ready Inspections presentation
• Liability Insurance Renewal presentation
• AFS (Annual Financial Statement) presentation
• Possible executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, real estate, or labor negotiations

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence CDBG Advisory Committee will discuss and recommend funding amounts for 11 local organizations, including Child Abuse Prevention Association and Salvation Army.

• Discussion of funding recommendations for 11 organizations
• Child Abuse Prevention Association
• Community Services League
• Hope House
• Independence Meals on Wheels

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Park Commission is meeting to review staff reports and old business. The commission will discuss the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and a General Obligation Bond.

• Parks and Recreation Master Plan
• General Obligation Bond
• Tourism Recommendation
• Budget staff report

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Arts Commission will consider a public art presentation for the Independence Municipal Commons, discuss the 2026 Parade of Hearts, and address commission membership and future meetings. No formal votes or decisions are listed on the agenda beyond discussion and potential recommendations.

• Discussion of 2026 Parade of Hearts
• Independence Municipal Commons Public Art Presentation
• Independence Arts Commission membership and future meetings

Council Meetings

The City Council held a regular meeting and took action on numerous items. It approved a citywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, a $3.45 million stormwater construction contract, and several rezonings to single-family residential. A video broadcast agreement with the school district failed, and two liquor license applications received opposite outcomes.

• Adoption of the City of Independence Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan (passed 6-1)
• Approval of $3,447,758 construction contract for the Leslie to Crane at Hereford Stormwater Project
• Rezoning of multiple properties along Winner Road, Brookside, Glenwood, and 9th Street to R-6 Single-Family Residential (passed 7-0)
• Approval of $841,711 for FERC Order No. 881 compliance for the Power & Light Department
• Video Broadcast Agreement with Independence School District failed (3-4)

Special Meetings

This is a routine procedural meeting of the Stay Well Committee. The agenda includes approval of minutes, financial statements, updates from CIGNA and HR, and discussion of wellness activities. No binding decisions or notable actions are scheduled.

• Financial statement presented by Finance Department
• Update from CIGNA by Carol Buckner Ayers and Lisa Phillips
• Financial report presented by CBiz
• HR update presented by Bethany Dickey
• Wellness activities update presented by Selena Good

Planning Commission

The regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for February 25, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2025. No decisions or discussions were held.

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session featuring presentations on a Justice Center bond question and an animal cruelty task force. The meeting also includes an IRIS update and reports on boards and commissions.

• Animal Cruelty Task Force presentation
• GO Bond Question 1 Overview: Justice Center
• IRIS Update
• Boards and Commissions Report

Special Meetings

The City of Independence is holding a public participation meeting to present an overview of the Winter 2025-26 Annual Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds, and to solicit citizen input on the plan.

• Overview of the Annual Action Plan for CDBG & HOME programs
• Request for public input on the 2025-26 Annual Action Plan

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on a request for variances to building and parking lot setbacks at 1001 W. US Highway 24. The board will also consider approving minutes from the previous meeting.

• Case 25-999-01 – 1001 W. US Highway 24 – variances to building and parking lot setbacks

Council Meetings

The City Council approved multiple consent agenda items, including a $5,012,318 contract for Rock Creek pipe repairs and a $2,006,013 contract for Rockwood storm drainage improvements. They also passed resolutions creating an Animal Welfare Committee and approving a preliminary plat for Liberty Commons, and gave first reading to three rezoning proposals and a $841,711 project for FERC compliance.

• $5,012,318 construction contract to SHE DIGS IT, LLC for Rock Creek Corrugated Metal Pipe Repair and Replacement Phase 2
• $2,006,013 construction contract to Abay Construction for Rockwood Storm Drainage Improvements
• $461,264.74 design contract to Affinis Corp for 23rd Street Complete Streets Phase 2
• First reading of rezoning for 2000 N. Elsea Smith Road and properties along Winner Road, Brookside Boulevard, and Liberty Street
• Ordinance authorizing eminent domain for electrical easements for the Sub S Distribution Feeder Project

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Personnel Board will discuss updates to the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual, including changes voted on in November 2024 and specific reviews of Holiday Pay and Sick Leave language for probationary employees.

• Approval of December 13, 2024 meeting minutes
• Update on Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual changes
• Update on Unpaid Time Off Policy Proposal
• Review of Holiday Pay language
• Review of Sick Leave for probationary employees

Advisory Committee Meetings

The CDBG Advisory Committee is holding its second meeting to hear presentations from 11 organizations applying for 2025-26 CDBG and HOME public service funding. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is limited to applicant presentations and closing remarks.

• Presentations from Upwards Care, Inc., Salvation Army, Community Services League, Mother's Refuge, Hope House, Independence Meals on Wheels, Metro Lutheran Ministry, Child Abuse Prevention Association, Palmer Center, and reStart, Inc.
• Hybrid meeting held in City Hall Conference Room A and via Microsoft Teams

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Health Insurance Review Committee will meet to discuss the latest open enrollment update. It will review the performance of its health insurance fund. The committee will also consider expected health insurance trends for 2025.

• Open Enrollment Update
• Fund Performance
• Trends Expected in 2025

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will discuss an award for local businesses, a bike ride of historic places, and set 2025 priorities including evaluating waste at the Independence Cable Dahmer Arena.

• Bold Reuse facility tour starting at 5 PM Feb 13, 2025
• Bike Ride of Historic Places tentative date May 31, 2025
• 2025 Commission priorities discussion
• Independence Cable Dahmer Arena Waste Evaluation
• Approval of November 14, 2024 minutes

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will hold a vote on an upcoming election and receive updates on a student delegate program and the Matsuri festival. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and announcements.

• Upcoming election vote
• Student delegate update
• Matsuri update
• Approval of prior minutes

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence FIFA World Cup Advisory Committee will meet to receive general updates from Sam and Eileen. Members will discuss the event theme and review the project timeline. The committee will prepare a recommendation to present at the March City Council meeting. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• General updates from Sam and Eileen
• Theme discussion for the World Cup event
• Review of the project timeline
• Preparation of a recommendation for the March council meeting

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone 1009 N Kiger Road from R-12 (Two-Family Residential) to R-6 (Single-Family Residential). The consent agenda includes approval of minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Public hearing on rezoning Case 25-100-08: 1009 N Kiger Rd from R-12 to R-6
• Consent agenda: approval of Planning Commission Minutes for January 28, 2025

Council Meetings

The City Council holds a study session with presentations on the I Love Independence Film Contest, an extended stay hotel update, the mid-year financial forecast, and a detailed overview of GO Bond Question 3, which would fund parks, historic sites, and the Independence Athletic Complex. No votes are scheduled; this is a discussion-only meeting.

• I Love Independence Film Contest update
• Extended Stay Hotel update
• Mid-Year Financial Update and Forecast
• GO Bond Question 3 overview for parks, historic sites, and the Independence Athletic Complex

General

The Independence Park Commission will hold an advisory meeting to discuss staff reports on budget, parks, recreation, and promotions, along with old business items including a tourism recommendation and a general obligation bond. New business focuses on the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The commission advises the City Council on parks and recreation matters.

• Staff reports on Budget, Parks, Facilities & Grounds, Recreation Services, and Promotions
• Old Business: Tourism Recommendation
• Old Business: General Obligation Bond
• New Business: Parks and Recreation Master Plan

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Independence Board of Health will meet virtually to discuss communicable disease and grants. The only decision item is approval of minutes from the December 2024 meeting.

• Approval of minutes for the Regular Meeting on 12/05/2024
• Discussion on Communicable Disease
• Discussion on Grants

Special Meetings

This special meeting of the Emergency Medical Services Committee will hear reports on AMR and fire emergency responses, the medical director, Centerpoint updates, and the ARCH co-responder program. The committee may also vote to close part of the meeting for discussion of health proceedings involving identifiable persons.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• Medical director report
• ARCH co-responder program update
• Possible executive session for health proceedings

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Human Relations Commission will review several items, including an update on the award budget, a review of the recent MLK Celebration, and a review of the commission's bylaws. The commission will also discuss City Council Resolution 7082 concerning membership on boards and commissions, and consider the ICON Award. No decisions are noted as pre‑approved; the agenda items are for discussion.

• Award budget update
• MLK Celebration review
• Bylaws review
• Review of City Council Resolution 7082 on board and commission membership
• ICON Award consideration

Council Meetings

The Independence City Council approved several contracts for water infrastructure and a liquor license for American Way Smokehouse. The council also postponed resolutions regarding the Independence Economic Development Partnership and the Transportation For All Plan.

• Approval of $550,000 for water pipe and fittings
• Authorization for $296,956 change order for Rock Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Approval of liquor license for American Way Smokehouse at 17710 E. 39th St. S.
• Postponement of Independence Economic Development Partnership agreement
• Postponement of Transportation For All Plan resolution

General

The Heritage Commission will meet to consider updates to the Historic Preservation Design Guidelines, review its 2025 goals and objectives, and receive Certified Local Government training. It will also receive reports on Section 106 reviews for properties at 1413 South Home Avenue and 1523 South Appleton Avenue. No formal decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion.

• Proposed updates to Historic Preservation Design Guidelines
• Review of 2025 goals and objectives
• Certified Local Government training session
• Section 106 review for 1413 South Home Avenue
• Section 106 review for 1523 South Appleton Avenue

Audit and Finance Committee

The Audit and Finance Committee will receive a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2024 audit and review monthly financial statements. Old business includes updates on utility billing and the animal shelter, as well as an update on county ARPA funds.

• Fiscal Year 2024 Audit Presentation
• Monthly Financial Statements review
• Utility Billing & Animal Shelter Update
• County ARPA Funds Update
• Approval of November 20, 2024 minutes

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Independence Tourism Commission will discuss updates on the Truman Depot renovation and Caboose restoration, the NPS Harry S Truman Visitor Center project, and a General Obligation Bond proposal for historic sites projects. New business includes a Parks and Recreation Master Plan for historic sites, a volunteer program expansion, and free passes to historic sites offered by the Mid-Continent Public Library.

• Truman Depot Renovation and Caboose Restoration Update
• NPS Harry S Truman Visitor Center Project
• General Obligation Bond Proposal/Historic Sites Projects & Budget
• Tourism Reorganization & CVB Board
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan (Historic Sites)

Special Meetings

The Stay Well Committee will approve the minutes from the previous meeting and hear a financial statement presented by the Finance Department. It will receive updates from Cigna, CBiz, and the Human Resources department, as well as a report on wellness activities. The committee will discuss any old and new business items and set the date for its next meeting.

• Approval of minutes
• Financial statement presentation by Finance Department
• Update from Cigna presented by Carol Buckner Ayers and Lisa Phillips
• Update from HR presented by Bethany Dickey
• Wellness activities presentation by Selena Good

Planning Commission

The Independence Planning Commission will meet to approve routine minutes and a final plat for Timber Creek Ranch. The body will also hold public hearings to consider rezoning requests for properties on Truman Road and Hocker Avenue.

• Approval of Planning Commission minutes for January 14, 2025
• Final Plat approval for Timber Creek Ranch (5th Plat)
• Public hearing for Case 25-100-03: Rezoning 10900 E Truman Rd to Industrial
• Public hearing for Case 25-100-06: Rezoning 336 N. Hocker Ave to Single Family Residential

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a study session to receive presentations on two topics: the Critical Materials Crossroads Energy Materials Campus at Lake City and a GO Bond Question 1 overview regarding the animal shelter. No votes are scheduled; items are for discussion and information only. The council may also convene in executive session for legal, personnel, or contract matters.

• Presentation: Critical Materials Crossroads Energy Materials Campus at Lake City
• Presentation: GO Bond Question 1 Overview: Animal Shelter
• Potential executive session on litigation, personnel, contracts, or real estate

Annual & Quarterly Meetings

The committee will approve minutes from September 2024 and accept quarterly reports from the Fire and Police Departments, including use tax and marijuana tax reports from the Police Department. All items are routine procedural updates with no policy decisions or dollar amounts specified.

• Approval of minutes from September 19, 2024 meeting
• Acceptance of quarterly report from Fire Department
• Acceptance of quarterly report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Use Tax report from Police Department
• Acceptance of quarterly Marijuana Tax report from Police Department

Council Meetings

The City Council will hold a public hearing on forming the Blue Ridge Crossing East Community Improvement District, continued from January 6. The council also considers a first reading ordinance to establish the district. Other items include approving a change order for utility payment kiosks ($79,092) and entering a contract with Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity for affordable housing using HOME funds. Second readings passed include the US 24 Highway Phase 3 project agreement and amendments to the Landlord Tenant Code.

• Change order to PO 24001495 with DynaTouch Corp for utilities payment kiosks, $79,092 (revised total $112,543.20)
• Contract with Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity for affordable housing using 2024-25 HOME program funds
• Ordinance authorizing Municipal Agreement with Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for US 24 Highway Phase 3 from Wilson Road to Sterling Avenue (Project No. 112212)
• Public hearing and first reading to establish Blue Ridge Crossing - East Community Improvement District
• Ordinance amending Landlord Tenant Code (Chapter 5, Article 11) and Rental Ready (Article 15)

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee is holding an emergency meeting to discuss and vote on two specific items. These include a financial deposit for a travel agent and a proposal for a language and culture workshop.

• Vote on $3,000.00 deposit to travel agent
• Vote on updated language and culture workshop proposal

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Public Utility Advisory Board will approve minutes from two prior meetings, discuss updates to its rules of procedures and the city charter, and receive reports on utility finances, capital improvement projects, and the IPL strategic plan.

• Approve minutes for November 21, 2024 meeting
• Approve minutes for December 19, 2024 meeting
• Discuss updating rules of procedures and city charter
• Review utility financial report questions for November 2024
• Update on current capital improvement projects (CIP)

Public Hearings

The Board of Adjustment is meeting to conduct business at the Council Chambers. The primary case on the agenda has been requested for continuance.

• Case 24-999-12: Variance request for 790 & 800 N. Bly Road regarding flag lot, frontage, and depth to width ratios (requested for continuance to March 20, 2025)

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Street Improvement Oversight Committee meets for a routine update. They will approve prior meeting minutes and review a financial summary of street sales tax revenues from July to December 2024, as well as receive a capital improvement projects update.

• Approval of September 26, 2024 meeting minutes
• Street Sales Tax Summary for July 1 – December 31, 2024
• Capital Improvement Projects update

Public Hearings

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding rezoning requests for properties on N. Elsea Smith Road, Evanston Park, and Liberty Street. The body will also consider a preliminary plat for Liberty Commons.

• Case 25-100-01: Rezoning 2000 N. Elsea Smith Road from R-A to R-4
• Case 25-100-04: City request to rezone Evanston Park properties, including 9408 E. Winner Road and others, to R-6
• Case 25-100-05: City request to rezone 1420-1426 S. Liberty Street to R-6
• Case 24-310-06: Preliminary plat request for Liberty Commons by Derek Kennedy
• Case 25-100-03: Rezoning of 10900 E Truman Rd continued to January 28, 2025

Council Meetings

This is a council study session, not a voting meeting. The council will discuss a resolution for Senate Bill 5, sponsored by Mayor Rowland. Presentations include the IPL Strategic Plan Implementation, the Transportation for All Plan, and an overview of GO Bond Question 2 for streets and sidewalks. Citizen requests are not eligible per council rules.

• Resolution for Senate Bill 5 (sponsored by Mayor Rowland)
• IPL Strategic Plan Implementation presentation
• Transportation for All Plan presentation
• GO Bond Question 2 Overview: Streets & Sidewalks

Special Meetings

The CDBG Advisory Committee is meeting to review the PY 2025-26 budget and evaluate applications from 11 organizations seeking public service funding. The committee will discuss evaluation criteria and schedule applicant presentations for a follow-up meeting on February 13. Organizations include Upwards Care, Salvation Army shelters, Meals on Wheels, and more.

• Presentation of CDBG PY 2025-26 budget overview
• Review of 11 applicant applications including Upwards Care, Salvation Army - Crossroads Shelter, Community Service League, Mother's Refuge, Hope House, Independence Meals on Wheels, Metro Lutheran Ministry, Child Abuse Prevention Association, Salvation Army - Emergency Assistance, Palmer Senior Center, and Restart Inc.
• Discussion of public service presentation evaluation criteria
• Planning for applicant presentations at Meeting 2 on February 13, 2025
• Virtual meeting via Microsoft Teams with call-in option

Advisory Committee Meetings

The Sustainability Commission will discuss and set its 2025 priorities, including at least one sustainability-related subject. They will also receive an update on Bold Reuse and discuss a postponed bike ride event. An award nomination process for local businesses or individuals is ongoing.

• Update on Bold Reuse program
• Bike Ride of Historic Places postponed to spring 2025
• Award for local business or individual – nomination link provided
• Approval of November 14, 2024 meeting minutes

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Japanese Sister City Committee will discuss and vote on ticket purchase options (via travel agent or independent purchase) and authorize payment. The committee will also announce a slate of officers for an upcoming election and accept additional candidate declarations. Updates from the student delegate and on the Matsuri event will be presented.

• Discuss and select preferred ticket purchase option (travel agent vs. independent) and approve down payment or total expenditure
• Announce slate of officers for upcoming election; vote scheduled for February
• Accept additional candidate declarations for officer positions
• Student delegate update
• Matsuri event update

Board & Commission Specific Meetings

The Emergency Medical Services Committee will review AMR and fire emergency responses, receive reports from the health department and medical director, and discuss updates on Centerpoint and the ARCH co-responder program. A vote may be taken to close part of the meeting for discussion of identifiable medical or mental health proceedings under state law.

• Review of AMR emergency responses
• Review of fire emergency responses
• Medical Director report
• Centerpoint updates
• Possible executive session for discussion of nonjudicial mental or physical health proceedings

Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss and vote on several significant items, including a resolution outlining the use of up to $197 million in General Obligation bond proceeds for capital improvements and a resolution declaring intent to finance three new fire stations and renovate the Independence Utilities Center as part of a new Justice Center. The consent agenda includes purchase orders for water treatment plant coating replacement ($423,270), micro-transit services ($402,100), and substation transformers ($5,193,820). Public hearings will be held on rezonings at 2131 S. Scott Avenue (to commercial) and 17200 E. Medical Center Parkway (to commercial), while a rezoning at 19300 E. 37th Terrace S was postponed indefinitely.

• Purchase order $5,193,820 for Substation S Transformers for Power & Light
• Contract $402,100 for on-demand micro-transit services through June 2025
• Purchase order $423,270 for Protective Coating Systems Replacement at Courtney Bend Water Treatment Plant
• Public hearing and rezoning at 2131 S. Scott Avenue from R-12 to C-2 (commercial)
• Public hearing and rezoning at 17200 E. Medical Center Parkway to C-2 (commercial)