Patty Hilderbrand

The proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the City of Harrisonville, Missouri, was submitted for consideration. The budget includes sections such as the overall fiscal year 2026 budget across all funds, individual fund summaries, department summaries, and a report that includes total revenue and expenditures for 2023, 2024 actual, 2025 amended budget, and 2026 proposed budget. Key budget highlights and changes include sales tax revenue adjustments, assessed value increases, salary increases, changes in LAGERS rates, and increases in insurance premiums. Water and sewer rates are also increased, and preliminary analysis has informed the budget process for recommended electric rates with a 5.5% increase across all rate classes.

The Harrisonville Comprehensive Plan, initiated in 2002 and spanning a ten-year outlook, serves as a foundational roadmap for guiding the City's future growth and development. Its primary goal is to enhance Harrisonville as a place to live and work. The plan outlines strategic directions across various key areas, including general land use, residential land use, commercial land use, industrial land use, economic development, parks and recreation, central business district revitalization, transportation, and public utilities and facilities. Key objectives include attracting quality development, ensuring balanced land uses, securing sufficient revenues for public services, establishing an efficient transportation network, providing excellent recreational facilities, fostering diverse housing and employment opportunities, and promoting aesthetically pleasing and progressive development.

The meeting included the approval of minutes from previous meetings. A road use and maintenance agreement with Cass County was discussed and approved, involving the placement of a pipeline. A financial report reviewed citywide revenues and expenses, highlighting increases in sales tax and charges for services. The report also included a budget forecast and a schedule for upcoming budget discussions. Committee reports included an update on electric company meters and encouragement for vaccinations. Upcoming events such as a bicentennial celebration and Paw Palooza were also mentioned.

The meeting included proclamations celebrating the five-year anniversary of KC Scholars Incorporated and recognizing Water and Wastewater Professionals Week. Discussion included the 2022 budget questionnaire, focusing on goals for industrial development, additional revenue sources, and enhanced code enforcement. A resolution was approved authorizing a real estate donation contract with Country Club Bank for land donation. An ordinance was passed certifying the results of a special election for a fire protection sales tax.

The board meeting addressed several key issues. Public participation included discussion regarding the closing of an alleyway. A resolution was passed to update authorized banking signatures. Another resolution was passed to refund an overcharge of electric usage to several business owners. An ordinance was passed to extend city limits by annexing adjacent territory. Finally, an ordinance was passed to vacate an improved east-west alley right-of-way.