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Excelsior Springs, Mo. (July 21, 2025) – The July 21 City Council meeting reflected Excelsior Springs’ continued investment in growth and quality of life, with unanimous votes in favor of redevelopment, infrastructure upgrades, and outdoor recreation enhancements.
Liquor Licenses for Two Local Establishments
Council unanimously approved liquor licenses for two local businesses.
The Springs Restaurant, recently opened by Chuck and Sonja Duckworth at 415 St. Louis Avenue (formerly the Mill Inn), received approval for a new retail liquor license. Acting Liquor Control Officer Captain Robert Warner confirmed that the restaurant completed all necessary steps, including securing signatures from neighboring property owners within 185 feet to meet the required 51% approval rate.
Additionally, Donnici’s Italian Deli & Market, located at 1500 Kearney Road and owned by Carrie Donnici, was also approved for a retail liquor license. Similar to The Springs, Donnici’s obtained the required 51% approval from neighboring property owners and tenants.
Captain Warner reported that both establishments met all city ordinance requirements, with no objections or concerns raised during the meeting.
Tax Abatement for Colonial Hotel Renovation Project
The Council also approved a Chapter 353 tax abatement for extensive renovations planned at the historic Colonial Hotel at 328 East Broadway Avenue, now owned by Susan Blaser (Colonial Hotel 323 LLC). The $476,626 renovation will include a complete interior remodel, balcony reconstruction, masonry repair, window restoration, and updated HVAC, plumbing, and fire safety systems. The project qualified for Level C tax abatement, granting 100% property tax abatement for 10 years, followed by a 50% abatement for the subsequent five years. The Excelsior Springs Redevelopment Corporation and Historic Preservation Commission had previously reviewed and approved the plans.
Plat for Easley Farm Subdivision
The Council unanimously approved the preliminary and final plat application submitted by Earl Paul Easley for the Easley Farm subdivision, located at the northwest corner of Orrick Road and NE 124th Street. The subdivision divides approximately 40 acres into two separate lots, allowing the residential home to be split from the agricultural land. City staff confirmed that the plats conform to city subdivision regulations and the Comprehensive Plan. The approval includes the condition that the applicant work with city staff to establish a permanent access point to the property.
Sanitary Sewer Connection for Future Annexation
The City Council approved Resolution 1589, allowing 3M Property Reserve, LLC to connect a property located at the northeast corner of Old Quarry Road and NE 144th Street to the city’s sanitary sewer system. The approval includes an Annexation and Utility Services Agreement, ensuring that the property owner will annex the land into the city limits when eligible. The connection supports orderly growth, public health, and environmental protection. City staff confirmed that the property meets city development regulations and supports future annexation.
Council Renews Partnership with AYSO for Youth Soccer Program
The Council approved Resolution 1590 to extend its agreement with the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) for the Fall 2025 Tigers ‘N Training soccer program. After a successful trial partnership in the spring, the Parks, Recreation, and Community Center Department recommended continuing the arrangement. AYSO will provide structured coaching and a proven curriculum, while the city will handle registrations and marketing. Parks Director Nate Williams noted the program was well-received by participants and no issues were reported during the spring season.
Council Approves Trail Development MOU with Urban Trail Co.
The Council approved Resolution 1591, authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding with Urban Trail Co. (UTC) for the development and maintenance of singletrack trails on city-owned land near the airport and golf course. Under the agreement, UTC will design, construct, and maintain new multi-use trails, while the city will assist with signage, coordination, and oversight. Parks Director Nate Williams noted the city lacks the expertise to manage this type of trail development internally, and praised UTC as a proven trail development partner. The agreement includes provisions for liability, maintenance standards, and public engagement, and is set to remain in effect for five years.
Council Approves Major Change Order for Dry Fork Greenway Project
The City Council approved Resolution 1592, authorizing Change Order #3 to the contract with Mega KC for the Dry Fork Greenway Project. The change order includes five items totaling $674,640.20, the most significant being a $644,784.45 relocation of a water main. Funding will come from the water fund, remaining project funds, and a Capital Improvements allocation. The updated contract amount now stands at $4,279,341.12, leaving just over $20,000 available for future changes. Public Works Director Chad Birdsong confirmed the work should take about 60 days once permits are received, with project completion still expected later this year.
Council Reviews June Financial Report
Finance Director Vonda Floyd submitted the June 2025 revenue and expenditure report for City Council review. Total appropriations for the month were $2,733,797.46, which included payroll and operational expenses across four reporting periods. Total revenues received for June were $2,654,991. The report was presented by City Manager Molly McGovern in Floyd’s absence and required no council action.
Final Remarks and Recognitions
City Manager Molly McGovern shared a commendation from the International Code Council highlighting Excelsior Springs’ relational approach to code enforcement, with special recognition for staff member Trish Guarino for her supportive and persistent efforts to improve neighborhoods.
Council members expressed excitement about the redevelopment at 328 East Broadway and the trail project partnership with Urban Trail Co. Mayor Pro Tem St. John acknowledged longtime city employee Joe Spear for his 44 years of service.
Mayor Mark Spohn noted the success of the Mayor’s Block Party fundraiser at Shamrock Hills Winery, which raised over $3,000 for the VFW Memorial Hall. Additionally, Councilman McGovern noted that the Excelsior Citizens’ t-shirt fundraiser for the VFW sold over 700 shirts, with more expected due to popular demand. Councilmembers closed the meeting in appreciation of these community-driven efforts.
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