City Council Recap: Elder Abuse, Short-term Rentals, Parks and Rec Annual Report & more

Proclamation – World Elder Abuse Awareness Day of June 15th

During the Excelsior Springs City Council meeting on June 5, 2023, council members recognized the upcoming World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which falls on June 15, 2023, with a proclamation. This international observance serves as a crucial reminder of the need to protect and support our senior citizens. The council highlighted the importance of raising awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation and promoting respectful treatment and dignity for older adults within our community. They emphasized the collective responsibility of citizens, organizations, and authorities in combating elder abuse, urging everyone to remain vigilant, report any signs of abuse, and assist those in need. The council pledged its commitment to promoting a safe and nurturing environment for all elderly residents in Excelsior Springs.

Consideration of Liquor Licenses

Police Chief Gregory Dull, who serves as the Liquor Control Officer, presented the renewal of liquor licenses for the upcoming 2023-2024 year. With the annual licenses set to expire on June 30, 2023, Chief Dull provided the council with a comprehensive list of thirty-five (35) businesses expected to renew their licenses. He also shared that twenty-four (24) businesses had already submitted payment, while applications were still being received. Chief Dull highlighted the importance of reviewing all applications for license requirements, including the provision of a Missouri State liquor license by the businesses. He informed the council that a simple motion would be sufficient for approving the renewal of the twenty-four (24) liquor licenses. The presented establishments included a range of businesses such as Aldi Inc, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, The Elms Hotel, and WoodChux Axe Throwing, each requesting specific types of licenses, including packaged liquor, liquor by the drink, and beer/wine by the drink. Sunday sales and tastings were also included as part of some license requests, highlighting the diverse nature of Excelsior Springs’ liquor industry.

Consideration of Special Use Permits for 2011 Brookside Circle and 2081 Rockbridge Parkway for use as Short-Term Rentals

The Council upheld the ruling of the Planning and Zoning Commission to reject two special use permits for residential homes intended to be used as short-term Airbnb rentals. The council deliberated on the matter and expressed their support for the commission’s decision, highlighting the importance of maintaining the integrity of residential neighborhoods and preserving the quality of life for all residents. They recognized concerns voiced by community members regarding potential disruptions, increased traffic, and safety issues associated with short-term rentals.

The Battle for Stone Crossing: Neighbors Unite to Strike Down Short-Term Rentals

May 31, 2023 2 Comments

Keith Roos speaks out against the allowance of short-term VRBO rentals in the Stone Crossing neighborhood (photo S Jason Cole) In a remarkable display of community engagement, residents of the Stone Crossing neighborhood came together at a Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Tuesday evening to voice their concerns and successfully block the approval of

Consideration of Agreement with GEMT

Fire Chief Joe Maddick presented a resolution requesting authorization to enter into an agreement with Public Consulting Group, LLC. The agreement was aimed at enabling the fire department to participate in the Ground Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) Uncompensated Cost Reimbursement Program. Chief Maddick explained that the program would provide reimbursement for qualifying emergency ambulance services provided to participants of the Department of Social Services’ MO HealthNet program. The reimbursement would cover uncompensated costs incurred when transporting participants via ambulance to an emergency room.

Presentation – Annual Report by Parks & Recreation

In his annual report presented to the Excelsior Springs City Council, Parks and Recreation and Community Center Director Nate Williams provided a comprehensive overview of the department’s activities and initiatives. Williams began by highlighting the numerical breakdown of facility reservations, special events, programs, and camps, which showcased the diverse range of participants involved in Parks and Rec affiliated events. He mentioned the success of sports programs, the introduction of new camps, and the popularity of events like the candy cane hunt, Youth Fishing Day, movies in the park, and Parks and Rec month.

Williams noted that certain programs were now offered through the Community Center and their staff, thanks to the benefits of joining forces. He mentioned the Esports program, which was temporarily discontinued but would soon be brought back. He also discussed the growth of senior programs and the transition of the Senior Services division to the Community Center’s realm.

The report included details about the Earth Day cleanup event in collaboration with the school district, highlighting the substantial number of volunteers and cost savings achieved. Williams also shared financial information, highlighting positive budgetary outcomes for the Parks and Rec Department and the successful completion of the Century Park Renovations.

See the full report below, or watch the video replay above.

Consideration of License Agreement for Land Use

Williams proposed a land lease for the vacant property owned by the First United Methodist Church next to Rainbow Splash Park. Williams explained that the property was challenging to maintain for anyone other than the Parks Maintenance Division. The department proposed to lease the land in order to take responsibility for maintaining the property, including regular mowing of the grass and preventing creatures from the nearby stream from entering the splash park area. The proposal aimed to ensure the proper upkeep of the land and enhance the overall maintenance of Rainbow Splash Park. Williams said that at some point in the future, they will work to purchase the land from the church.

Consideration of Agreement with HydroJug

Williams presented a partnership opportunity with Hydro Jug Inc. The ESPRCC Department was offered the chance to become a reseller for Hydro Jug, a popular water bottle brand in the fitness and recreation community. Williams explained that this partnership would allow patrons to purchase Hydro Jug bottles and accessories directly at the Community Center, eliminating the need to order online and pay for shipping. As a reseller, the department would have the potential to generate revenue by purchasing the bottles at a wholesale price and selling them at market value to patrons. Williams noted that there were no purchasing requirements from Hydro Jug Inc. and requested City Council approval for the MAP Agreement and Reseller’s Agreement with Hydro Jug Inc.

Consideration of Pump Room Purchases

Williams informed the City Council about the repairs required due to a pump room flood that occurred on February 25th. The flood caused significant damage to the lower level of the pump room, submerging the pumps, motors, and VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives). In response, the ESPRCC Department worked with P1, the current provider of their Preventative Maintenance Agreement, and Commercial Aquatic Systems to address the emergency repairs. Williams requested City Council approval for the expenses incurred, totaling $70,840.02, which included service work completed by Commercial Aquatic Services ($7,008.30) and P1 Service ($63,831.72). Williams said that the Community Center is working with the City insurance company to seek reimbursement for these expenses.

Consideration of Outdoor Furniture Purchase for Community Center Phase II Project

Williams presented a proposal regarding the furniture needed for the outdoor pool as part of the Phase II project. The department collaborated with SFS Architecture and recommended using Texacraft for the furniture and Panel Systems Plus for assembly and on-site delivery. Williams requested City Council approval for the purchase of outdoor furniture to fulfill the Community Center’s requirements. The order would be split into two separate orders, with some items being quickly shipped to arrive before the pool’s opening, and the second order covering the remaining furniture. The necessary funds for this project are available through the bond funds. The items requiring approval included 66 chaise lounge chairs for the outdoor pool ($18,570.42), the second order of outdoor pool furniture from Texacraft ($23,897.83), and the furniture assembly by Panel Systems Plus ($6,230.00). The total cost of the items requiring approval amounted to $48,698.25.

Consideration of Change Orders #5, #6, and #7 with Royal Construction for Community Center Phase II Project
Finally, Williams presented a request to the City Council regarding change orders for the Phase II project in collaboration with Royal Construction. The department recommended using Royal Construction based on their ability to fulfill design phase requests. Williams sought City Council approval for Change Orders #5, #6, and #7, which would encompass the necessary changes for the Community Center. The funds for these changes are available through the bond funds. The total cost of the items included in Change Orders #5, #6, and #7, requiring approval, amounted to $31,348.00.