Melissa Harmer

The council meeting included staff reports on development services, highlighting building permits issued and ongoing renovations. A report confirmed the filing of financial disclosure statements. The police department reported on traffic enforcement plans for an upcoming event. The consent agenda included approval of meeting minutes and a safety traffic enforcement program. Unfinished business involved the second reading and approval of bills related to a solid waste management agreement and land development projects. New business included the first reading of a resolution approving the location of a car wash business within a tax increment financing district. Discussion of the car wash proposal included details about noise reduction measures, design features, and traffic flow.

The council meeting included staff reports from Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and Communications. Key discussion points included upcoming snow season preparations, staff training and development, and the Hawk Ridge Park project. The consent agenda included approval of the city council meeting minutes from October 10, 2022. Unfinished business involved the second reading of Bill 3750 (FY2023 budget) and Bill 3749 (amendment to the unified development code). New business included the first reading of Bill 3751 (Country Lane Storm Inlet Rehabilitation project), Bill 3752 (FY2022 operating budget amendment), Bill 3754 (2022 sidewalk gap project), Bill 3755 (bridge and culvert cleaning and repairs project), Bill 3756 (curb ramp repair project), and Bill 3757 (budget amendment and property purchase at 216 South Adams Street).

The Raymore City Council held a special meeting and public hearing regarding a proposed landfill near the city's northern border. Presentations included staff reports outlining the potential negative impacts of the landfill on the community, including odor, noise, environmental hazards, and economic effects on property values. Expert testimony from a geologist and legal counsel highlighted concerns about groundwater, soil permeability, and karst terrain conditions. The council considered Bill 3783, an ordinance opposing the landfill's approval, and staff recommended its passage.

The council meeting included proclamations for National Public Works Week and National Police Week. A donation of $18,000 was received from a local business for the police department. Staff reports covered development services, including updates on the South Metro Admin Facility, Sunset Plaza townhomes, and Raymore Commerce Center. The consent agenda included approval of the April 25th city council minutes. Unfinished business included the second reading of several bills: Bill 3717 (intergovernmental agreement with the Missouri Department of Social Services), Bill 3715 (contract with Little Sports Shop for screen printing and embroidery services), Bill 3716 (contract with Pepsi Beverages Company for vending services), Bill 3720 (contract for real estate purchase of firing range property), and Bill 3711 (authorizing taxable industrial revenue bonds for a commercial development project).

The work session focused on a joint meeting with the Raymore Parks and Recreation Board, primarily concerning the development of a new dog park. The proposed dog park, located on a piece of property dedicated as parkland, is planned to be approximately 10.5 acres, significantly larger than comparable dog parks in nearby communities. The design includes two separate sections for dogs of different sizes, a central common area with amenities, and landscaping for screening. The project is fully funded for the upcoming fiscal year, with construction timing dependent on road access and the bidding process. Discussion also included the potential for future fees or restrictions on park usage based on resident status and anticipated high demand.