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Excelsior Springs, Mo. (June 30, 2025) – The Excelsior Springs City Council held a special session on June 30 to address several time-sensitive items ahead of the Independence Day holiday. The agenda included contract extensions, infrastructure updates, insurance renewals, and a board appointment. Council members also reflected on recent community events, including Waterfest and the museum patio dedication.
Local Trash Provider Expresses Interest in Future City Contract
During the visitor’s forum, Jacob Peterson of Redgate Disposal addressed the council to introduce his company and express interest in future opportunities to provide solid waste services in Excelsior Springs.
Peterson described Redgate as a locally operated business based in Edgerton, Missouri, with 19 years of experience and recent service expansions in Kearney. Emphasizing personal connections to the community, including employees and friends who live in Excelsior Springs, he stated, “It’s personal for me that we provide a good service.” Peterson indicated Redgate’s pricing would be competitive, approximately in the $18-per-month range, and said the company can deliver service levels consistent with what the city currently receives.
City Council Renews School Resource Officer Agreement for 2025–2026
The council unanimously approved an ordinance authorizing a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Excelsior Springs School District for the continuation of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program in the 2025–2026 school year.
Police Chief Gregory Dull noted that the updated MOU, approved by the school board on June 24, maintains three SRO positions with a cost ceiling of $195,000—an increase from $175,000—to account for rising personnel costs and increased event coverage. The MOU continues to clarify that SROs are city employees, ensuring legal clarity for both parties.
Council Approves Purchase of Four New Transit Vehicles
Council also approved the purchase of four new wheelchair-accessible vehicles through the Missouri Department of Transportation’s 5339 Capital Assistance Grant Program.
Public Works Director Chad Birdsong reported that the city will receive two buses at $105,567 each and two minivans at $73,590 each, totaling $358,314. Federal funds will cover 80% ($286,651), while the city’s 20% share ($71,663) was already allocated through the Capital Improvements budget. The measure passed without objection.
Change Order for 2025 Streetscape Project
The council then approved Resolution No. 1585, authorizing Change Order #1 to the contract with All Pro Asphalt for the 2025 Streetscape Project. The amendment increases the project’s total cost from $393,328.38 to $729,806.00, an addition of $336,477.62.
Birdsong explained that the adjustment adds Italian Way to the milling and overlay list and includes thermoplastic striping, 594 linear feet of new curbing, and 412 yards of base repairs. Most work deadlines were extended to July 15, except for base repairs on Skyline and Prospect Streets, which remained due by June 27.
Council Approves Temporary Extension of Solid Waste Contract
To ensure uninterrupted waste collection, the council approved Resolution No. 1586, establishing a temporary month-to-month contract extension with Allied Services, LLC (Republic Services of Kansas City).
Birdsong noted that the city’s five-year agreement expired on June 30, and long-term contract negotiations are still ongoing. The interim agreement includes a 3.5% rate increase and can continue for up to 90 days, with a 60-day termination clause for either party.
City Renews Insurance Coverage with Adjusted Carriers and Lower-than-Expected Increase
The council also approved Resolution No. 1587, renewing the city’s workers’ compensation, property, and liability insurance for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2025.
City Manager Molly McGovern shared that while initial projections estimated a 25% increase, the final renewal package, Option 4, secured a more manageable 16% increase. This was accomplished by shifting workers’ compensation coverage from Travelers to Missouri Employers Mutual (MEM) while maintaining existing property and liability providers. The selected plan preserved full coverage with trusted, stable carriers.
Whitney Sparks Appointed to Planning & Zoning Commission
Council capped the session by approving Resolution No. 1588, appointing Whitney Sparks to the Planning & Zoning Commission. Sparks will complete the unexpired term of Julia Goldstein, which runs through September 2028.
City Manager McGovern noted that Sparks is a recent graduate of the Thrive Excelsior Citizens Leadership Academy and expressed enthusiasm about her community involvement. Sparks was sworn in on the spot and immediately joined the commission for its meeting later that evening.
Council Closes Meeting with Reflections on Waterfest, New Faces, and Community Initiatives
In closing remarks, council members and staff reflected on recent events and initiatives. McGovern introduced new city planner Josh Garrett, who was preparing to present at the Planning and Zoning meeting immediately following the council meeting.
Councilman Gary Renne praised the success of the 2025 Waterfest, noting smooth operations and strong attendance. He and other council members also welcomed Sparks to her new role and encouraged others to participate in the upcoming Citizens Leadership Academy.
Councilman John McGovern honored retiring physician Dr. Robert Buzard for his years of dedicated service to the community. Mayor Pro-Tem Reggie St. John highlighted several downtown businesses continuing their “Shop Local” promotions through July.
Mayor Mark Spohn closed by celebrating the museum’s new addition and its utility during a weekend of warm-weather festivities. With no further business, the meeting adjourned.
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