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Excelsior Springs, Mo. (May 19, 2025) – The Excelsior Springs City Council addressed a full agenda during its May 19 meeting, swearing in a new deputy city clerk, issuing proclamations for Mental Health Awareness Month and National Public Works Week, approving liquor license renewals for 33 businesses, authorizing a $195,235 engineering contract for sewer rehabilitation, and appointing or reappointing several residents to city boards and commissions. Council also reviewed strong April financials and concluded with remarks recognizing community service, legislative achievements, and local first responders.
Administer Oath of Office to Deputy City Clerk
Excelsior Springs City Council opened its May 19 meeting by administering the oath of office to Susan Conyers, the city’s newly appointed deputy city clerk. Conyers pledged to uphold the U.S. Constitution, Missouri state laws, and local ordinances during a brief ceremony conducted at the start of the session.
Council Recognizes May as Mental Health Awareness Month
Mayor Mark Spohn issued a proclamation during the May 19 City Council meeting declaring May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Excelsior Springs. Joined by representatives from local departments, the mayor emphasized the importance of addressing mental health with the same priority as physical health.
The proclamation cited the ongoing challenges millions of Americans face in accessing mental health care, including stigma and limited resources. This year’s theme, “Strength in Connection,” highlights the critical role of community and support networks in promoting well-being.
Spohn urged residents, businesses, schools and organizations to advocate for mental health equity and foster an environment of understanding and support.
Proclamation – National Public Works Week
In recognition of their role in maintaining critical city infrastructure, the Excelsior Springs City Council proclaimed May 18–24 as National Public Works Week during its May 19 meeting. Mayor Mark Spohn presented the proclamation to Public Works Director Chad Birdsong, emphasizing the theme “People, Purpose, Presence.”
The proclamation acknowledged the contributions of engineers, managers, and employees who ensure the safety, sustainability, and quality of life in the community through their work on transportation systems, water and waste services, and public facilities. Spohn encouraged citizens to show appreciation for the department’s often behind-the-scenes efforts.
In his remarks, the mayor highlighted the department’s impact, referencing public appreciation expressed during the Citizens Leadership Academy, particularly for the water plant tour, which continues to resonate with participants.
2025/2026 Liquor Licenses
Council voted unanimously to renew liquor licenses for 33 businesses, with licenses valid through June 30, 2026. Police Chief Gregory Dull, serving as the city’s liquor control officer, confirmed that each applicant met local requirements, and approval is contingent upon holding a valid state license from Missouri.
The businesses approved include:
- Aldi #56R
- American Legion Post 236
- Applebee’s
- Atlas Saloon & Brewery
- Casa de Vite International Wines
- Casey’s General Store #2495
- Dollar General #1207
- Dollar General #23537
- El Maguey Restaurant
- Elks Lodge #1001
- Elms Hotel
- Fast Zone
- Golf Hill Grille
- Huey’s Hidden Vault
- Hunan Restaurant
- Molcajete Mexican Food
- Planet Liquor #2 (1005 Isley)
- Planet Liquor #3 (960 Isley)
- Pour Boy Oil Company
- Price Chopper #200
- Quick Corner #3
- Quick Shop II
- QuikTrip
- Star Liquor & Tobacco
- Tiger Bowl
- Ventana Café
- Wabash BBQ
- Walgreens #11375
- Wal-Mart Super Center #195
- Willow Spring Mercantile
- Wine & Shine Tasting Room
- Warbird Whiskey
- Y Liquor
Several licenses include endorsements for Sunday sales and product tastings. The total revenue from renewals will reflect the city’s established fee structure, which ranges from $75 for basic beer sales to $450 for liquor by the drink.
2025 Sanitary Sewer Lining and Rehab Project
Council approved Resolution No. 1570, authorizing a task order with McClure Engineering Company for services related to the 2025 Sanitary Sewer Lining and Rehabilitation Project.
The $195,235 agreement covers engineering design, construction administration, and observation. Funding for the project is supported through a grant from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers totaling $2,374,166.67, which includes a $645,000 local match from the city’s Capital Improvements Program.
Public Works Director Chad Birdsong presented the resolution, noting that McClure’s services will be provided under the city’s existing on-call engineering contract.
Board Appointment of Betty Bissell to P&Z
Council unanimously approved the appointment of Betty Bissell to the Planning and Zoning Commission during its May 19 meeting. Bissell was nominated by Mayor Mark Spohn to fill a vacancy left by former member Jake Simmons. Her term will extend through Sept. 30, 2027.
Though Bissell was not present for the meeting due to inclement weather, City Manager Molly McGovern explained the appointment process, noting that the city had advertised board openings and reviewed applications submitted since 2023. Staff comments and applicant preferences were considered before council members finalized selections.
Board Appointment of John Clark as BZA Alternate
Council approved the appointment of John Clark as a third alternate to the Board of Zoning Adjustment. His initial term will run through Sept. 30, 2025.
Clark, who was present for the meeting, was sworn in immediately following the unanimous approval of Resolution No. 1572. Mayor Mark Spohn noted that Clark is a graduate of the Citizens Leadership Academy and commended his willingness to step forward for public service.
Board Appointment of Cindy Spellman to P&R Board
Council unanimously approved the appointment of Cindy Spellman to the Parks and Recreation Board. Spellman fills a vacancy left by Jake Simmons, with a term extending through May 31, 2027.
Mayor Mark Spohn introduced Resolution No. 1573, noting Spellman’s prior expression of interest in serving on the board and her participation in the Citizens Leadership Academy. Following the vote, Spellman was sworn in during the meeting.
Board Appointment of Keith Winge to Community Center Board & MU Extension
Council approved the dual appointment of Keith Winge to the Community Center Advisory Board and the University of Missouri Extension Council. Winge will serve on the Community Center Advisory Board through Sept. 30, 2028. He will also complete a term on the MU Extension Council, succeeding Phil Scherer, with that appointment set to expire on Feb. 28, 2026.
Board Appointment of Greg Broadbent to P&R Board
Council approved the appointment of Greg Broadbent to the Parks and Recreation Board. His term will run through May 31, 2028.
Board Re-Appointments to P&R Board
Council unanimously approved the reappointments of Sherri Branson-Hurt and Terri Irons to the Parks and Recreation Board. Both members will continue serving through May 31, 2028.
The resolution was introduced by City Manager Molly McGovern, who noted that the Parks and Recreation Board operates on a May-term cycle due to state statute, differing from other city boards. Council members expressed appreciation for Branson-Hurt and Irons’ continued service and experience.
Mayor Mark Spohn also acknowledged outgoing board member Scott Buckman, who chose not to seek reappointment, thanking him for his longstanding commitment to the board and the community.
April Revenue Report and Financials for Review
Council received the April 2025 revenue report and expenditure summary from Finance Director Vonda Floyd. The report, presented for review only, did not require council action.
Total appropriations for the month amounted to $1,802,723.40, which included:
- April 3: $359,799.08
- April 10: $339,747.70
- April 17: $88,758.55
- April 24: $143,136.97
- Payroll April 15: $413,633.54
- Payroll April 30: $457,647.56
Revenues for the same period totaled $2,916,110.48, significantly exceeding expenditures. Floyd noted all appropriations were made in accordance with the city’s purchasing policy.
Remarks
City Manager Molly McGovern noted a busy schedule of upcoming meetings and encouraged council members to stay engaged throughout the week.
Councilman Stephen Spear began council remarks by expressing condolences to families affected by a recent local tragedy and thanked the city’s police and fire departments for their response. He gave special recognition to Excelsior Springs firefighter Zach Coldren, who happened to be dining at Wabash BBQ and acted quickly to extinguish a fire. “It’s kind of like having a doctor nearby when someone starts choking,” Mayor Spohn said. “We really appreciate his quick action in saving a staple restaurant in our town,” Spear concluded.
Councilman Gary Renne praised the May graduation of the Thrive Excelsior Citizens Leadership Academy, noting a record 29 participants and highlighting that several alumni were in attendance at the meeting. “We’re seeing a lot of fruit come from it,” Renne said. “This year’s class doubled the size of any previous year.”
Councilman John McGovern offered brief remarks, pointing out recent coverage in The Excelsior Citizen spotlighting three city employees: Clint Reno, Robert Warner, and Cameron White. “They were all nicely done and well-deserved,” he said. McGovern also wished Mayor Mark Spohn a safe and enjoyable upcoming trip to Ireland.
Mayor Pro Tem Reggie St. John reminded attendees that May is Motorcycle Awareness Month, urging both drivers and riders to practice courtesy and caution. He also shared a personal moment of kindness he experienced following a hospital appointment, when a stranger offered him a ride after a brief elevator interaction. “It just proves how friendly this town is,” St. John said. “In this day and age, hardly anybody does that—but this town is different.”
Mayor Mark Spohn closed the meeting by reading a statement he posted earlier on social media. He thanked State Rep. Mark Meirath, Sen. Kurtis Gregory, and Sen. David Gregory for their efforts in passing House Bill 1534. The legislation removes a 1931 legal restriction that had prohibited Missouri municipalities from using public funds to operate or maintain mineral water wells. Spohn credited Dennis and Arlo Hartman for initiating the advocacy campaign and said the bill’s passage, despite being introduced late in the legislative session, was a significant win for the city. “This is an important step in restoring the mineral waters of Excelsior Springs,” he said.
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