The Thrive Excelsior program’s task-force committees provided updates on their ongoing initiatives during a meeting held on February 20, 2025. The program, dedicated to community development and engagement, continues to make strides in housing, economic vitality, engagement, and health and wellness.
Housing Task Force (Laura Mize)
The Housing Task Force reported progress in addressing homelessness and supporting new housing developments. During their last meeting on January 14, they had strong attendance and focused on aiding the unhoused population. The annual Point-in-Time Count was conducted to assess local homelessness levels (none recorded as found), leading to the creation of a dedicated working group within the task force.
Melinda Mehaffy provided updates on housing projects, noting that Excelsior Springs has been recognized as an outlier in regional housing development by area organizations. Additionally, the Curb Appeal contest will return, encouraging community beautification with sponsorships available at $50 per month. Beacon Realty will be hosting quarterly trainings for new homebuyers and those planning to sell, covering financing and real estate essentials.
Economic Vitality Task Force (Gary Renne & Melinda Mehaffy)
Since October, the Economic Vitality Task Force has seen high participation and diverse representation. Their next meeting is scheduled for March 11.
Key initiatives include the establishment of a co-working space at First United Methodist Church, allowing individuals to lease workspace by the hour or day. The group is also working with the ESO Foundation and KC Sourcelink on a new program designed to support entrepreneurs, positioning Excelsior Springs as a key player in business development.
Recruitment of new businesses remains a priority, with efforts underway to attract retail and manufacturing enterprises. The city is hiring a community development director to oversee planning and historic preservation efforts. Additionally, an intern will assist in advertising spaces and creating a marketing plan for infill and housing development.
Recent job-related initiatives include the launch of a Jobs Board in collaboration with the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Excelsior Citizen. Meanwhile, Jason Cole’s “What Do You Do Here?” series will spotlight local businesses, with an upcoming feature on KC Machine, which is expanding its operations. A Virtual Job Fair, supported by a grant obtained by Brian Rice at the Chamber, is also in development.
Engagement Task Force
The Engagement Task Force is actively working to increase community involvement. Volunteers are assisting with the Citizens Leadership Academy, which kicks off on February 24.
A new site map for the Thrive Excelsior website is being developed, alongside a positive messaging campaign titled “Your Story, My Story, Our Story.” This movement aims to spread uplifting community narratives through social media, encouraging residents to share positive stories and experiences.
Health & Wellness Task Force
The Health & Wellness Task Force hosted a Resource Fair on February 4, bringing together 25 organizations that serve Excelsior Springs. These quarterly fairs aim to enhance collaboration among service providers and reduce overlap in community resources.
A Lunch and Learn series is planned, with quarterly sessions held at the local hospital, featuring sponsored lunches. Additionally, the task force plans to have a more active presence at the Farmers Market this year and will utilize Thrive Excelsior’s social media to communicate health and wellness initiatives.
Lauren from Clay County Public Health Center announced a new grant to promote biking education and infrastructure. This initiative includes community presentations, training sessions, and a full-weekend course to certify individuals who will then educate the community on bike safety and usage. A suitable location for the training is still being determined.
Moving Forward
The Thrive Excelsior task forces continue to make significant progress across their focus areas, with new programs and community partnerships strengthening Excelsior Springs’ economic, social, and wellness initiatives. Residents are encouraged to get involved and stay updated through Thrive Excelsior’s website and social media channels.
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