Lauren Grashoff

The Planning Commission meeting focused on several key items, most notably a comprehensive presentation regarding the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the years 2027-2036. The City Engineer detailed various infrastructure projects, including street improvements, stormwater management, facility upgrades for the Police and Fire departments, and park developments. Commissioners discussed specific local concerns such as intersection safety, lighting, and traffic speed mitigation. Additionally, the commission discussed upcoming procedures for member elections.

The Board of Zoning Appeals considered an application for a variance from the Shawnee Municipal Code regarding property located at 22005 West 74th Street. The request sought permission to construct a detached garage outside of the rear yard area. Following a staff report and consideration of the project's site plan and zoning context, the Board approved the variance application with the requirement that a building permit be obtained within six months.

The committee considered the appointment of a new member. Updates were provided on the Downtown Wayfinding Plan and Policy project, including community feedback and implementation timeline. The partnership discussed World Cup planning, specifically beautification projects and business promotions. City updates covered parking strategies, the Johnson Drive streetscape pavilion project, the Merriam-Shawnee trail link, downtown improvement grants, miscellaneous business project delays, and positive sales tax revenue trends. Finally, the committee discussed the need for designated rideshare drop-off points in the downtown area.

The committee presented and reviewed the final Downtown Wayfinding Plan and Policy, discussing implementation priorities such as parking identification and bicycle infrastructure. There was an overview of existing economic incentive tools, specifically the Downtown Improvement Grant and the Shawnee Entrepreneurial and Economic Development Program (SEED), with discussions on program effectiveness and potential adjustments to funding criteria. Additionally, the committee received an update on the investigation into designated rideshare locations within the downtown area.

The council held an executive session to discuss a personnel matter involving a non-elected official. Following the session, the council authorized the Mayor to conduct background checks and discuss contract terms with a candidate for the position of City Manager.