point of view
Excelsior Springs, Missouri
If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.
week of March 18
Monday, 6pm - City Council Meeting
Wednesday, noon - Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
Saturday, Sippin into Springtime; 2-4pm Candidate Meet & Greet
Sunday, 4pm - Wyman Listening Post
upcoming agendas
City Council will hear annual update on City's MS4 Storm Water Program; public hearing regarding 353 redevelopment; agreements to be considered include amendment related to 514 Elms Blvd redevelopment project to include sidewalk repair, 604 SKC Ave. to remove sidewalk repair, selection of Olsson Studio Consulting Services to guide the completion of Comprehensive Plan [Funding: ARPA $100,000] & engagement with Forvis to complete audit of FY 2022 [Funding: GF $75,850]; consideration of purchase of equipment for golf course maintenance (2 mowers, gator & spray unit) [Funding: CIP $237,840]; grant funds to Chamber for trolley purchase [Funding: ARPA $70,000] re-payment terms provides community center usage for youth & senior trips & creates Community Foundation revolving loan fund; presentation of February Financials & Closed session to follow.
Candidate Meet & Greet for April 2nd election: Clay County Health Board (Vote for 3): Debbie Florido, Jim Dixson, Dave Ferrara, Courtney Cole & Emma Shankland; City Council (Vote for 2): Stephen Spear & John McGovern; School Board (Vote for 2): Kristi Shewell, Troy Snelling, Russell Wenz & Traci White.
Wyman Listening Post aimed at discussing the future of the historic Wyman School building. The focus of the session will be on sharing the results of environmental assessments & use of funding [$250,000] from DNR to remove lead-based paint & asbestos.
making a difference
Celebrating work anniversaries this week: Joshua Diehl, Firefighter Paramedic - 6 years; Taylen Manns, Recreation Program Supervisor - 1 year.
The life of Chief Bill Stewart was celebrated last week. Bill made the fire service his career & served Excelsior Springs for 47 years. Those who had the opportunity to serve with Bill shared their memories of a kind, but firm leader who made a difference in his community.
Affordable Housing
We hear the words 'affordable housing' in so many ways, it raises the question - "What is AH? HUD defines AH as housing where the occupant is paying 30% or less of their gross income on total housing, including utilities. This discussion is intended to be a conversation starter - What are the challenges for AH?
- Supply and Demand Imbalance: The demand for AH often exceeds the available supply. Rapid urbanization & population growth exacerbate this issue.
- Cost of Construction: Building AH can be expensive due to land costs, materials, and labor. Balancing affordability with quality construction is a challenge.
- Gentrification: As neighborhoods improve, property values rise, displacing low-income residents. Gentrification can reduce affordable housing options.
- Maintenance/Upkeep: AH projects require ongoing maintenance. Funding constraints can lead to neglected properties.
- NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) Opposition: Communities sometimes resist AH projects due to concerns about property values, traffic, or aesthetics.
Lack of Funding: Public funding for AH is often insufficient. Private investment may not prioritize affordability.
Social Stigma: Some people associate AH with crime or lower quality, perpetuating negative stereotypes.
Homelessness: Lack of AH contributes to homelessness. Providing stable housing is crucial for addressing this issue.
Affordability Metrics: Defining affordability varies by location & income levels. Striking the right balance is challenging.
I'm thankful for these community groups & for the most part how helpful & positive everyone is. Good job Excelsior - let's attract what we want in our neighbors by being kind. Read it on Facebook