Drew Biermann

The council meeting addressed several municipal items, including the declaration of seven days of kindness. Funding was approved for five city projects under the County Assisted Road System program, and a contract was finalized for the annual mill and overlay project covering road, curb, and sidewalk improvements. Additionally, the council reviewed updates on a downtown wayfinding project focused on signage, parking direction, and pedestrian information. Finally, the council reviewed the city's comprehensive funds list as part of the ongoing budget process.

The City Council meeting included the renewal of medical, dental, and vision benefits for city employees. The Council authorized bidding for the Mackini Drive street improvement project and approved several public works projects, including storm water pipe repairs, land easement acquisitions, and design services for the Kanan Street project. The Public Works Director provided updates on grant applications through the Mid America Regional Council. Additionally, the Police Chief presented a review of the previous year's department operations, highlighting call volume statistics and discussing future challenges such as recruitment, mental health-related calls, and operational costs associated with upcoming events and city growth.

The council finalized an ordinance to close a public railroad crossing and authorized an emergency contract for trail relocation due to bank erosion. A contract was approved for the replacement design of a pool deck. A public hearing was scheduled for a proposed TIF district. The council received an informational presentation regarding a master plan update for a local park and reviewed a fire department annual report, which covered operational performance, departmental challenges, and strategic planning initiatives.

This 2026 'State of the City' address reviews past achievements and outlines Shawnee's strategic outlook for community development, economic prosperity, and international engagement. Key priorities include upholding national accreditation standards across all city departments and ensuring fiscal responsibility. The city is focused on driving economic development through projects like the Westbrook Green Shopping Center and the Midland Entertainment District. A significant aspect of the strategy involves preparing to welcome international visitors for major events such as the 2026 World Cup and the Kansas City Chiefs' relocation, while simultaneously strengthening long-standing sister city ties. The address also emphasizes promoting diverse housing options, celebrating academic and athletic achievements of local students, and fostering civic participation among the youth, all with the vision of maintaining Shawnee as a welcoming 'hometown with heart' that continuously builds a stronger community and offers a high quality of life.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, noting one member participating remotely, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Hope Lutheran. Procedures for public input were explained, limiting comments to five minutes per person on city business only. The consent agenda was approved without any items being pulled. Under business from the floor, a resident, Michael Brown, discussed critical issues concerning rising housing costs, the unavailability of Section 8 housing lists, and the lack of accessible affordable housing for physically disabled and mentally ill residents, urging the council to prioritize these issues. Another resident addressed difficulties related to tenant rights after allowing temporary occupancy to friends for six months. A third speaker requested increased funding and maintenance for dangerous sidewalks on Midland Street between Cottonwood and Whitmer. Mayor's items included the proclamation of March 2nd to 6th, 2026, as Severe Weather Awareness Week, with presentations from the Office of Emergency Management and CERT team members. Appointments were approved for the Visit Shauny Advisory Committee. Staff items included approval of final plans and authorization to bid the Johnson Drive and Coera signal replacement project, approval of an interlocal agreement with the City of Lanexa for surface treatment on Gleon Road and 79th Street, approval of a contract for replacement playground equipment and safety surfacing at Kanan Park, and consideration of a redevelopment grant for Tiki Taco from the Economic Development Seed Loan fund, which involved a presentation from the business owners.