Josie Hermreck

The council approved agreements for school crossing attendant services and for school resource officers at two local schools. Updates were provided on the Midland renovation project and the city's capital improvements program regarding Shawnee Town 1929 and Rail Creek Park. The council also reviewed the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget presentations for the police and fire departments, which include requests for budget increases to cover operational needs and additional staffing.

The council committee discussed the department budget presentations, covering plans for community development and public works. Key topics included a proposal for a new land disturbance and erosion control specialist position, the integration of GIS into community development, and a request for a technology upgrade for code enforcement. Additionally, the committee reviewed public works priorities, including storm water system evaluation, infrastructure maintenance, and planning for upcoming Capital Improvement Projects such as street extensions and signal improvements.

The council approved engineering services and property acquisition for a new trail project connecting Shawnee and Merriam. Additionally, the council authorized engineering services for the Shawnee Mission Parkway mill and overlay project and awarded a contract for the Mac and Nanny Drive street improvement project. Financial support was granted to the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce for the upcoming Americana and Ales Festival. Finally, the council reviewed proposed 2027 budgets for the community development and public works departments, noting a significant increase in the public works budget due to additional planned street improvement projects.

The council meeting addressed several proclamations and administrative actions, including the designation of May as poppy month and June 5th as gun violence awareness day. The council unanimously approved a slate of appointments to various boards and commissions. Mutual aid agreements were authorized for the local police department to assist neighboring jurisdictions in preparation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Furthermore, the council initiated the budget process for the upcoming fiscal year, featuring department presentations on personnel additions and proposed spending adjustments across several municipal departments.

The meeting featured a presentation on current public and private construction projects across the city, including residential subdivisions, townhome developments, and multifamily apartment complexes. Staff demonstrated how to access project information via the city's interactive online map. Commissioners discussed the status of stalled or delayed projects, potential new commercial developments, and the regulatory requirements and expiration timelines for approved planning and subdivision plats.