Welcome to Talk of the Town! Each week, we will provide a comprehensive summary of major events, decisions, and discussions that took place in Excelsior Springs. We’ll highlight public comments, social media interactions, and responses from local leaders to give you a well-rounded view of how these stories are impacting our city.
Top 3 Stories from last week:
2024 Homecoming Brings Excelsior Springs Together for a Weekend of Fun
Community Collaboration Revives Siloam Spring Park in Downtown Excelsior Springs
Posts that got you talking:
Donnici’s Sack Lunches and Catering put up flags outside their business at 1500 Kearney Rd and this post and everyone wanted to know what was going on! Questions started pouring in! Previously they announced that they are working on a sit-down option!
In response to the news of rising water and sewer rates, public reactions have been largely negative, with many expressing frustration over already high bills and questioning the justification for further increases. Clinton Watkins and Brianna Williams both highlighted that Excelsior Springs residents already face some of the highest water costs in the area, with Williams emphasizing that her bills have never been as high as they are since living in the town.
Brandon Behunin and Brenda Smith echoed similar concerns, with Behunin joking that the city seems to be “distributing gold” with its pricing. Smith shared personal comparisons, noting that her water bills far exceed those of family members in nearby communities, and urged the city to explore alternative solutions to reduce expenses and avoid further rate hikes.
Lisa Muller detailed a long-standing issue with her own water bills, explaining how despite multiple inspections confirming no leaks in her home, her monthly bill has steadily increased over the years. She expressed frustration with the city’s insistence that a leak must be the cause, even after her own efforts to investigate.
We offered a more detailed explanation of the situation, citing past audits, compliance with EPA regulations, and the rising costs of chemicals and maintenance as contributing factors. We also mentioned that the community could potentially see lower rates once sewer bonds are retired in a few years, although many remain skeptical and concerned in the present. After follow-up with the City Manager Molly McGovern it was reported that the water bonds retire in September of 2028 and the sewer bonds retire in March 2031. Click here for the full article where the screenshot pictured is taken from.
Popular Posts:
Tanya Burnett shared an old photo of Smith Syndicate 5, 10, & 25 Cent Stores. Dennis Hartman provided more context in the comments, sharing a photo of a postcard from when the building was used as the First National Bank and later Excelsior Trust Company Bank. Currently the building is owned by the City but being used by the Excelsior Springs Museum and Archives for their Rummage Sales.
Other Noteworthy News This Week:
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