Crystal Lakes, Mo. – Crystal Lakes marked a milestone on August 7 with the official ribbon cutting for The Overlook, the city’s newly renovated event venue. Local realtors, business owners, residents, and Excelsior Springs Mayor Mark Spohn joined Crystal Lakes Mayor Jeremy Dorrel and city staff to celebrate the transformation of the city’s only municipal building into a space designed for weddings, parties, and community gatherings.
The celebration, coordinated with the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce, welcomed guests to explore the building’s two floors, spacious patios, and offered a view of their expansive outdoor grounds. Upstairs, the chapel-style space can accommodate up to 99 people for ceremonies. Downstairs, a large renovated suite offers a private space before walking to the altar, or serves as a comfortable meeting area for guests, fully equipped with restrooms and kitchen essentials.
Outside of the building, the city’s 15 acres of land give renters the option to host open-air events or install a large white tent for receptions, concerts, or festivals.
Mayor Dorrel said the venue is intended to serve both residents and visitors. Crystal Lakes residents and landowners receive a 30 percent discount on bookings, and Dorrel shared that events are already coming in from residents in nearby towns.
“We’ve had birthdays, graduations, community events; about ten so far this year,” Dorrel said.
Dorrel noted that the venue is a city-owned property, with all rental proceeds returning directly to Crystal Lakes’ budget. “This isn’t a private business,” he said. “Everything goes back to the city. The Overlook is about creating a sustainable income source so we can improve quality of life here.”
The building’s transformation began after the city received funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) designated for improvements to municipal property. As this building was city-owned long before Dorrel took office, Grant funding from ARPA could be used for renovations.
In the lower level patio, there was once an abandoned swimming pool surrounded by a chain-link fence and barbed wire; now a renovated area and event-friendly courtyard. Inside, renovations included a full kitchen, updated lighting and electrical work, and a dedicated dressing space.
“We designed it so people can have the whole experience here,” Dorrel said. “Ceremony upstairs, reception outside or in a tent, beautiful photo spots , all in one location.”
The project has received a mixed reception from residents. Some view the renovations as a smart investment in the city’s future, while others question whether the funds could have been used for different projects. Dorrel maintains that, over time, even a modest number of annual events could generate more revenue than the city has previously seen, creating a steady funding source for other improvements.
The August 7 ribbon cutting was a chance to showcase that potential. Guests toured the downstairs suite, admired the upstairs ceremony space, and walked the outdoor patios and courtyard. Dorrel sees the venue as an opportunity to attract residents from neighboring cities to visit and contribute to the local economy, and Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders supported this cause in celebrating their ceremonial ribbon-cutting.
With Phase One of renovations complete, Dorrel said he hopes to expand offerings as rental revenue grows. Possibilities include additional landscaping, more outdoor amenities, and improved equipment for larger gatherings.
“Crystal Lakes had a reputation years ago that we’re working to change,” Dorrel said. “When people come here for a wedding or a party and have a great experience, that changes how they see us.”
The Overlook is available for weddings, private parties, and corporate events. For more information on pricing, availability, or to schedule a tour, visit the venue’s website or follow The Overlook on Facebook.
Edit: We corrected the spelling of the mayor’s last name from Dorl to Dorrel.
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