Alex Jackson

The board received an operational update from CoreCivic, including details on staffing ratios, detainee population, facility maintenance, and visitation trends. The Police Chief provided a report on a recent facility visit, and a discussion was held regarding compliance with the Special Use Permit. Additionally, a CoreCivic Court Officer gave a presentation on the processes for scheduling attorney visits, coordinating court-related communications, and managing detainee releases. The board also discussed potential locations for future meetings and concluded with an offer for a facility tour.

The Board of Zoning Appeals introduced a new planning assistant, held an election for the position of vice chair, and discussed a variance request for an existing non-conforming sign at 123 North Broadway Street. The board evaluated the variance application against specific criteria regarding the property's unique physical conditions and hardships, ultimately approving the variance with the condition that the signage must be removed in its entirety if the sign remains vacant for more than six consecutive months.

The commission meeting featured a mayor's award for community service, the proclamation of June as Pride Month, and the recognition of Juneteenth. The commission approved a zoning ordinance amendment for a property on Limit Street. A public comment session addressed concerns regarding the oversight of a core civic facility, including requests for more frequent tours and the use of verifiable data for information requests. The commission also reviewed and approved a consent agenda covering claims and payroll, and initiated a discussion on zoning regulations regarding existing duplexes and the Kansas By-Right Housing Act.

The Planning Commission conducted public hearings and reviews regarding several land use and development proposals. Discussions included a request for a Special Use Permit to allow two-family dwellings on Sherman Avenue, the final plat approval for the Limits Home Addition, and the consideration of preliminary and final plats for McDonald's Second Addition. Additionally, the commission reviewed proposed text amendments to the city's development regulations, including adjustments to signage, parking lot landscaping, and zoning definitions. The commission also established a standing development regulations review committee to systematically review and recommend updates to the city's development codes.

The study session covered several agenda items, including a presentation by Leavenworth Vibe regarding downtown revitalization efforts, such as cleanup initiatives and window painting projects. There was an update on the upcoming Camp Leavenworth festival, which includes new activities like a carnival, a cornhole tournament, and an expanded event layout. The Leavenworth Police Department presented its 2025 annual report, highlighting a reduction in crime rates, improvements in staffing and retention, and the positive impact of the mental health co-responder program.