City Council
Regular MeetingMission Hills, KS · June 13, 2022
Minutes
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF MISSION HILLS, KANSAS
June 13, 2022
The City Council of the City of Mission Hills, Kansas held a regular meeting on June 13, 2022,
at 5:30 p.m.
PRESIDING: Mayor David W. Dickey
PRESENT: Councilpersons Bill Bruning, Barbara Nelson, Braden Perry, Eden Thorne,
and Andy Weed
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT: Jennifer Lee, City Administrator; Justin Carroll, Assistant City
Administrator; Meghan Woolbright, City Clerk; Jill Clifton, City Planner;
Anna Krstulic, City Attorney; Spencer Jones, City Treasurer (by phone);
Police Chief Byron Roberson, Prairie Village Police Department
(“PVPD”)
VISITORS: Tim McQuaid, 6436 Norwood Road; Mike McQuaid, 5630 Belinder
Avenue, Fairway, Kansas; and Katie Dernier, Dentons US LLP, 4520
Main Street, Suite 1100 Kansas City, Missouri.
Mayor Dickey called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
GREETINGS AND INTRODUCTIONS
Following the pledge of allegiance, Mayor Dickey greeted visitors and noted that the order of the
agenda could be adjusted to accommodate the interests of the visitors. Mayor Dickey noted that
the meeting would be recorded for the purpose of meeting minutes.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETING
Councilperson Weed moved to approve the minutes of the May 9, 2022 meeting. Councilperson
Thorne seconded. All proposed edits were approved and accepted by Councilperson Weed and
Councilperson Thorne. Approved 5-0.
PUBLIC SAFETY
A. Police Report
Chief Roberson referred to the May police report and noted there was increase in activity over
the month of April. He noted that all four stolen vehicles were unlocked at the time of theft and
all vehicles except for the truck attached to a woodchipper had been recovered. Chief Roberson
1
stated unfortunately crimes of opportunity are a common theme in the May report and there is a
continued need for everyone to lock their vehicles and secure their valuables. He noted one
person was arrested with charges filed out of Johnson County for a vehicle stolen in Mission
Hills that was recovered in Independence, Missouri. He added that recovery of vehicles can
occur either in our jurisdiction or other jurisdictions, making it difficult to charge that person if
they claim they did not steal the vehicle. Chief Roberson stated these vehicle thefts are motivated
by the illegal open market in other cities where there is a demand for vehicles for committing
crimes. He stated for example a new BMW can sell on this illegal market for $500 to someone
who will use it for a short period of time to either commit a crime or drive, and then it could be
sold to another buyer.
Chief Roberson noted the report included a package theft from a front porch and suggested that
residents coordinate package deliveries with the provider to reduce the amount of time a package
is unattended or consider a delivery lock box. He noted there were a few miscellaneous thefts
including a license plate from a vehicle and a catalytic converter. Chief Roberson stated there
continues to be catalytic converters thefts because unfortunately there is a market for them in the
metropolitan area. He added that in all but one of the thefts from vehicles, the vehicles were
unlocked. In the case of the locked vehicle, there were valuables in plain sight which motivated
the suspect to break the rear passenger window.
Chief Roberson noted the two aggravated and one residential burglary in the report. The PVPD
responds to both aggravated and residential burglaries with the same seriousness because they
are burglaries to a residence. Chief Roberson noted the common theme in these cases is open
access, as the garage doors were open with values visible from the street in two of the burglaries.
He noted the third burglary occurred at a home under construction. Mr. T. McQuaid asked if
there was a common thread with construction related burglaries. Chief Roberson replied that
different contractors have been impacted by construction thefts. He noted that some contractors
are more vigilant about securing their worksites than others. Chief Roberson added that
construction sites are targeted all over the metropolitan area because there is very expensive
equipment that is not always adequately secured. Mr. T. McQuaid asked if there is evidence that
construction site thefts are committed by individuals associated with the construction. Chief
Roberson stated that inside operations do occur, and it is important to carefully consider who you
hire.
Chief Roberson reported there were several accidents in the May, but there were not any
concerns to report. Councilperson Nelson asked for more details on the fraud case related to a
check written to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Chief Roberson replied that checks can be
problematic for bank fraud because someone could gain possession of your checkbook and you
may not be immediately aware, or someone could wash a check that was previously written. He
noted that washing a check is the process of changing who a check is written to. He noted in this
case, a check originally written to the Missouri Department of Revenue was washed and then
cashed. Chief Roberson noted that unlike a dollar bill, checks do not have encryptions or
imbedded security, which makes preventing fraud challenging. Chief Roberson noted in these
cases the bank typically does not hold the accountholder responsible for the fraud, but they are
still subject to identity theft. He recommended mailing checks directly at the post office and
having checks or sensitive mail sent to either a PO Box or arranging a signature delivery with the
2
sender. Councilperson Nelson noted the acronym CDP in the May report and asked for further
details. Chief Roberson replied CDP stands for Criminal Damage to Property, such as when
someone kicks in a door as part of a burglary. He noted this is an additional charge in the
criminal statistics.
I. Camera and License Plate Reader (LPR) Installation Update
Chief Roberson reported the installation process has been challenging, but over the last week and
weekend five locations had equipment installed. He noted that equipment has been installed at
Verona Columns, 55th Street and State Line Road, 63rd Street and Indian Lane, Belinder Circle,
and Mission Drive and State Line. He added two of these five locations have full connectivity to
the network and the other three are in the process of being reviewed and tested by the Kansas
Bureau of Investigations to ensure that the camera output data is property guarded. Chief
Roberson indicated the installation process is proceeding smoothly and the additional locations
will have equipment installed over the next two months. He opined that Mission Hills is ahead of
most locations in the metropolitan area with the installation of the camera and LPR systems. He
added that all cities in the metropolitan area share and utilize data collected from the LPR
systems daily. Councilperson Bruning asked when the location at Belinder Avenue and 71st
Street would be installed. Chief Roberson noted that location is scheduled to be installed within
the next few weeks.
Chief Roberson stated he has discussed with Mayor Dickey that when there is an increase or
spike in criminal activity the police activate a Reducing Criminal Activity (RCA) mission. He
noted the community will observe additional officers, including Prairie Village officers,
patrolling in the north end of the City, as the crime analyst data shows there is more activity in
that area than normal. Chief Roberson noted there has been an increase in suspicious activity at
the Carriage Club parking lot, so there will be additional patrols of that location. Mayor Dickey
asked if the Carriage Club is still non receptive to additional security for their property. Chief
Roberson stated the Carriage Club has been made aware of the issues associated with their
property and has not been receptive of additional security measures. Mayor Dickey stated he
would seek to communicate to the Carriage Club the City’s interest in improving the security of
their property for benefit of the City, their members and employees.
Councilperson Weed noted many of the vehicle thefts in the May report were reported to have
occurred in the early morning and asked about the motivation associated with crime at this time
of day. Chief Roberson replied that between midnight and sunrise there is an increase in criminal
activity due to darkness and typically there are less people awake to report. He added the
timeframe of criminal activity can be skewed because reporting occurs when the resident wakes
up and finds that a theft has occurred. He noted the traffic stops and contacts data indicate that
during the overnight hours more individuals flee from the officers, which indicates an active
criminal element during that timeframe. Mayor Dickey asked if the patrol policy continues to be
zero tolerance for rolling stops signs and speeding between midnight and sunrise. Chief
Roberson replied yes and noted typically these individuals are kids trying to meet curfew or
people returning home from work, but this policy ensures that everyone is safe.
3
Councilperson Weed noted that as the City conducts the normal process of continued capital and
infrastructure improvements there is sometimes a consideration for sidewalks. He asked if there
is a correlation between sidewalks and crime. Councilperson Weed noted he has a sidewalk in
front of his home and does not feel any more vulnerable because of it, but there have been
residents who argue against sidewalks due to concerns they could increase crime. Chief
Roberson stated he has never seen a statistically significant link between sidewalks and criminal
activity. He stated that most of the criminal element is driving to commit a crime nor are they
courteous in the method they approach a property.
Mr. T. McQuaid noted the ongoing nuisance issues with coyotes in Mission Hills and asked
Chief Roberson if there have been any reports of coyotes in Prairie Village. Chief Roberson
replied the PVPD has not received any reports of coyotes in Prairie Village. Mayor Dickey noted
that a person walking their dog in the morning reported they were followed by a coyote acting
aggressively in the 5900 block of Mission Drive.
B. Fire Report
There were no comments on the Fire Report.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Ordinance No. 1615 – Vacation of Right-of-Way at 6545 Wenonga Road
Ms. Clifton stated that the Dillons purchased the property at 6545 Wenonga Road and have
petitioned the City to vacate a Right-of-Way that was platted in 1946. She noted that as
properties were bought and sold over time the property lines moved and this resulted in the
Right-of-Way being located toward the middle of property. Ms. Clifton reported that all utility
companies have stated they no intention of using this Right-of-Way in the future, so there are no
concerns for the City. She added there are reported drainage problems and stormwater runoff in
this neighborhood, so the City requested the Dillons grant an easement along the shared east side
property line shown in Exhibit B. She noted that if the City ever wanted to conduct work related
to stormwater improvements in this neighbor this would provide an appropriate location for work
to occur. Ms. Clifton stated the Planning Commission held a public hearing for the request to
vacate the Right-of-Way at 6545 Wenonga Road and there was no attendance or comment. The
Planning Commission is recommending the Council approve this request to vacate.
Councilperson Weed noted there is another vacation on the Council’s agenda that was also
recommended by the Planning Commission.
Ms. Dernier stated the Dillons are requesting this Right-of-Way vacation in anticipation of
improvements to the property. She reiterated that there are no utilities in the Right-of-Way or
plans to use it and the plat does not match the current property lines. Ms. Dernier added that
Dillons have agreed to the requested easement and will record accordingly with Johnson County
if approved by the Council. Councilperson Bruning moved to approve Ordinance No. 1615 to
vacate the Right-of-Way at 6545 Wenonga Road. Councilperson Weed seconded.
4
Councilperson Nelson asked if the Right-of-Way were to remain if that would preclude the
property owner from any proposed or present construction. Ms. Dernier replied the current
Right-of-Way is directly adjacent to the existing patio and within two feet of the existing home.
She noted she could not speak to future improvements at this property. Councilperson Nelson
asked if the property owner would currently be prohibited from building in the existing Right-of-
Way. Ms. Clifton replied yes and added that the Architectural Review Board (ARB) will not
typically approve a project over a Right-of-Way without permission from all utility companies.
She added that sometimes the utility company will not provide permission to build over or vacate
a Right-of-Way. Councilperson Nelson asked if property owners learn about these situations
through the survey process. Ms. Clifton replied yes, and in some cases, staff will inform
residents if they observe a Right-of-Way conflict in a submitted survey. Councilperson Nelson
noted the City needs to have options for addressing water issues. She opined the City should
carefully consider the release of any Right-of-Way in the City and there are instances when the
Right-of-Way should not be vacated.
Councilperson Bruning noted that Exhibit B would grant the City a ten-foot utility easement and
asked if it could be utilized to construct a swale in the future. Ms. Krstulic replied yes, the
easement could be used for a swale. She noted the language of the easement was written very
broadly to cover all allowances in the current Right-of-Way. She stated the issue is that when
these properties were first platted the lots were not necessarily sold as the lots shown in the plat,
which resulted in a Right-of-Way in the middle of the current property. Councilperson Bruning
asked in areas of the City without stormwater systems if easements along the back of lots could
be utilized to install a swale system. Ms. Krstulic replied yes, the City easements allow for
swales and utilities to be installed. Ms. Clifton added in the case at 6545 Wenonga Road that it
would be more beneficial to have an easement 20 feet from the home, as opposed to the current
Right-of-Way which is within two feet of the home. Mayor Dickey stated an easement is more
beneficial because it allows the City’s to determine the use, whereas a Right-of-Way allows a
utility to determine the use. Councilperson Nelson asked for additional clarification on the
difference between a Right-of-Way and easement. Ms. Krstulic stated that the language in the
easement would allow the City the same rights as included in the existing Right-of-Way. She
noted that a Right-of-Way is a means for providing access, such as public streets and an
easement allows for ingress and egress and specific uses, including infrastructure. Councilperson
Nelson noted there was action previously taken by the City Council to vacate Right-of-Ways en
masse. Ms. Clifton replied that the Planning Commission identified approximately 17 locations
where the Right-of-Way was located directly under any part of an existing structure and these
Right-of-Ways were then vacated by the City Council. Councilperson Nelson opined the
acceptance of the easement in exchange for the vacation of the Right-of-Way at 6545 Wenonga
Road would benefit the best long-term interests of the City.
Approved 5-0.
CONSENT AGENDA
Councilperson Nelson moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Councilperson
Bruning seconded. Approved 5-0.
5
FINANCIAL REPORT
A. May Report
Mr. Carroll referred to the May financial report and noted the revenues continue to be strong
with the sales tax revenues specifically outperforming the previous year-to-date. He noted in
expenses that the City completed the planting of 56 street trees and 11 island trees in 2022.
Mayor Dickey stated for the record that on June 6, 2022, the governing body held a three hour
Financial & Strategic Planning Retreat, so the Council is well informed on the City’s financial
status.
Councilperson Thorne noted the additional expenses for Sunken Garden and asked for
clarification. Mr. Carroll stated the pumps in the pit failed due to an electrical issue, so following
the rains the pit had to be manually pumped for the electrical to be repaired. He added that the
fountain would be filled with water and operational prior to the Food Truck Thursday scheduled
for June 16th. Councilperson Nelson asked if there was a cost estimate for these repairs. Mr.
Carroll replied that the electrical labor would be the significant cost as the work would occur in
the pit and each pump is approximately $1,500. Councilperson Nelson asked if the existing
pumps are still under warranty and how the equipment failed. Mr. Carroll stated the warranty has
expired. He noted that the new maintenance staffer, original project engineer, and contract
electrician met on site to analyze the situation and identified construction issues that were in
alignment with the original engineering. Mr. Carroll stated the new pumps and correct wiring
should address the issue that cause the failure. Councilperson Nelson asked if the new pumps
would have a longer warranty than the original and noted the continued maintenance is
expensive. Ms. Lee stated the original warranty was a standard two-year warranty. She added
that the sump pumps in the pit at Sunken Garden gets tremendous use because there is a spring in
that area, which has required the pumps to run almost continuously since they were installed four
years ago. Ms. Lee noted this level of use will cause the pumps to require ongoing maintenance.
Mr. Carroll stated that the electrical repairs should improve the function of the pumps.
Councilperson Weed asked if the City hastened to improve Sunken Garden and noted it was once
a spring fed lake. Ms. Lee stated the City spent more than a year in the design and construction
process, and the nature of the location creates maintenance challenges. She noted the location of
Sunken Garden was once a limestone quarry so there is not good percolation and it is also the
low spot for collecting stormwater runoff from the neighboring properties. Ms. Lee specified that
the sump pump system was designed to manage these variables and the recent electrical repairs
should allow the pumps to function as engineered. Councilperson Bruning stated fountains
require continued maintenance to remain functional. Ms. Lee noted that all capital improvements
require a two-year warranty following completion.
OLD BUSINESS
A. Repeat Nuisance Properties
6
Mayor Dickey asked if there were any questions regarding the Repeat Nuisance report.
Councilperson Weed asked if staff had received any updates concerning 3002 W. 66th Terrace.
Ms. Lee replied staff has anecdotal evidence that items are being removed from the home. She
added that the last report to staff was the property owner’s condition was improving and there
was an active effort to vacate the property.
B. Coyote Update
Mayor Dickey noted that Council had previously discussed this item with Chief Roberson and
asked if there were any additional question. There was no further discussion
NEW BUSINESS
B. Ordinance No. 1616 – Vacate the Right-of-Way at 5930 Oakwood Road
Ms. Clifton stated that the Winters at 5930 Oakwood Road are seeking to vacate a Right-of-Way
that was platted 1924 and similarly to the situation at 6545 Wenonga Road the properties lines
have changed since the lots were platted. She noted that part of the existing home is in the Right-
of-Way and the property owners have received ARB approval to remodel the home and add an
outdoor living area. She added there are no concerns for the City in vacating this easement.
Mayor Dickey noted that due to the location of the property an easement is not being requested
from the property owner. Ms. Clifton agreed. Councilperson Weed moved to approve Ordinance
No. 1616 to vacate the Right-of-Way at 5930 Oakwood Road. Councilperson Thorne seconded.
Councilperson Bruning asked for additional clarification for the City not requesting an easement
as part of this Right-of-Way vacation. Ms. Clifton stated there are not reported stormwater issues
in this neighborhood and there is not an issue of proximity of the closest easement for this
property.
Approved 5-0.
C. Ordinance No. 1617 – Amending Section 5-128 Non-Conforming Structures
Ms. Clifton stated in 2019 an ordinance was adopted regarding non-confirming structures. She
noted prior to this ordinance revision if you made any modifications to a non-conforming
structure, such as a new roof on a detached garage that was built before the setback became
stricter a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) was required. She noted the
ordinance revision was intended to allow for general maintenance to previously existing
structures that are non-conforming. Ms. Clifton stated Planning Commission has submitted
Ordinance No. 1617 to the Council to make the regulations clearer and specifically allow
replacement of nonconforming air conditioning units without a variance. Councilperson Nelson
asked if the replacement of nonconforming air conditioning units was in the language adopted in
2019. Ms. Clifton stated that was the intent of the previous ordinance, but it was not directly
addressed in the adopted language so the Planning Commission added it to Ordinance No 1617
and qualified that the replacement unit must be substantially the same size or smaller than the
7
existing unit. Councilperson Bruning moved to approve Ordinance No. 1617 to amend section 5-
128 non-conforming structures. Councilperson Thorne seconded.
Approved 5-0.
Councilperson Weed noted he had been contacted by a resident seeking to complete a pergola
project who was informed they were required to have a boundary pin survey as part of the
application to the ARB. He asked if the City requires residents to hire a surveyor to complete a
boundary pin survey at their cost if the City does not have survey on record. Ms. Clifton stated
that for a lot of projects the City requires a boundary pin survey and many of the surveys on
record with the City do not have greenspace information. She added that the architect or designer
is responsible for calculating the greenspace for a project. Ms. Clifton noted in this example that
the resident was provided an alternate option for documenting the proposed location of the
pergola, as it was to be placed on an existing patio structure. She noted any application to the
ARB must demonstrate that the setbacks are met for the proposed project type. Councilperson
Weed asked if categorically residents are required to hire a surveyor at their own cost for any
project and if the City should be able to provide survey records for residents. Ms. Clifton stated
the only surveys the City has on record were submitted to the City by property owners. She noted
that when a survey is conducted for a project, City staff scans the record as a courtesy to the
property owner to utilize in the future. Mayor Dickey noted that as the requirements for
greenspace and setbacks have increased it often necessitates a more detailed survey to be
completed for those calculations. Ms. Clifton added that required application materials are
dependent on each individual project and in some cases a site plan can provide sufficient
evidence to verify setback requirements and in others a new boundary pin survey may be
required.
D. Engineering Contracts: Resolution No. 2022-P: Contract with Lamp Rynearson for
Engineering 2022 Capital Project on 70th Terrace (State Line to Overhill);
Resolution No. 2022-Q: Contract with Water Resources Solutions - Engineering
2023 Capital Projects - Indian Lane (66th Street to Tomahawk Road), 70th Street
and 66th Street; Resolution No. 2022-R: Contract with Water Resources Solutions -
Stormwater Study of Belinder Heights (Overhill to Rainbow from 67th Street to
65th Street); and Resolution No. 2022-S: Contract with Water Resources Solutions –
Stormwater Study of Verona Road (63rd Street to Overhill Rd)
Ms. Lee stated the engineering contracts in Resolutions Nos. 2022-P, 2022-Q, 2022-R, and 2022-
S were reviewed at the Strategic and Financial Planning retreat. Councilperson Nelson asked if
there were competing bids for these engineering contracts. Ms. Lee replied these contracts were
not by competitive bid. She noted Resolution No. 2022- P for 70th Terrace in 2022 is with Lamp
Rynearson and they engineered the Tomahawk Road project. Ms. Lee noted $21,000 of the
contract is for engineering and the remaining approximate $20,000 is for contract administration
and construction observation. She noted she sought a proposal from Water Resources Solutions
(WRS) for the project on Indian Lane (66th Street to Tomahawk Rd), because it includes
upsizing a stormwater pipe in Peetwood Park. Ms. Lee added that the Park Board has spent
considerable time and care improving the Park and WRS has the specialized stormwater
knowledge to make the project successful. She noted there was significant cost savings for WRS
to also engineer 70th Street and 66th Street. Ms. Lee added that WRS expertise on water issues in
8
the City make them the best fit for the stormwater studies in Resolutions No. 2022-R and 2022-
S. She added that if the projects in 2023 were more straightforward then staff would have
completed a completive bid process. Councilperson Nelson moved to approve Resolutions No.
2022-P, 2022-Q, 2022-R, and 2022-S. Councilperson Thorne seconded. Councilperson Weed
asked for clarification budget allocation for these engineering contracts. Ms. Lee stated the
stormwater studies and the stormwater engineering for the Indian Lane project would be
expended from the engineering line item in the Storm Water account and the engineering for the
70th Terrace, 70th Street, and 66th Street projects would be expended from the engineering line
item in the Roads & Bridge account. She noted these accounts hold approximately $100,000 in
anticipation of engineering for capital improvement projects. Councilperson Weed asked if the
prioritization of existing projects would be affected by these stormwater studies and if
conducting the stormwater studies is a commitment to acting on these projects. Ms. Lee replied
no, each study would result in three or four alternative solutions with price estimates and a
narrative describing the potential impacts and considerations. She noted the Council would not
be committed to take action unless a solution is found to be advantageous.
Councilperson Weed asked if other cities invest in these types of stormwater studies. Mr. Carroll
replied yes and noted the City programs consulting engineering funds in the budget for the
annual capital improvements and stormwater projects. Councilperson Bruning stated the
stormwater studies are important intelligence gathering for the City to understand and address
water issues. He asked if the engineering contracts will investigate the geology of the City and
the possibility of a limestone ledge impacting stormwater drainage. Ms. Lee stated the engineers
would consider the existing soil conditions, the unique development of the City, and potential
limestone. Councilperson Bruning suggested that a complete geological map of the City could
benefit decision making related to water issues. He asked if the Verona Road study would
consider the impact of water on the neighbors below on Mission Drive. Ms. Lee replied yes.
Councilperson Weed noted the Tomahawk Road project’s impact to the community and these
studies could recommend alternatives that are disruptive to the residents. Mayor Dickey agreed
and noted the Council will have to consider the potential impacts and solutions presented in these
studies. He added that portions of the City were developed more than 100 years ago and the
standards and guidelines for construction have greatly changed. Ms. Lee added that City staff has
worked individually with residents in the Belinder Heights and Verona Road study areas and
these individualistic solutions have not always been effective. Councilperson Weed opined that
the City is increasing its focus and expending resources on seeking to manage complex water
issues. Mayor Dickey stated that the City is not responsible for or liable for stormwater. He
added the City chooses to make stormwater improvements because it improves the quality of life
for residents and increases the longevity of the City’s infrastructure. Councilperson Bruning
asked for additional clarification on the definition of “flooding issues” and “ponding issues” in
the study contracts with WRS. Ms. Lee stated she would consult with WRS and provide
additional clarification to the Council.
Approved 5-0.
E. Resolution No. 2022-T: Sales Tax Renewal
9
Councilperson Weed moved to approved Resolution No. 2022-T to place the sales tax renewal
on the General election on November 8, 2022. Councilperson Nelson seconded.
Approved 5-0.
F. Resolution No. 2022-U: Contract with Sargent Town Planning to Update Design
Guidelines and Design Review Tools
Ms. Lee stated City staff and boards are seeking guidance from Sargent Town Planning (STP) in
the new house design process. She noted staff provided ten new houses that were approved for
construction to STP to review and provide guidance for improved review strategies. After
reviewing those houses, STP provided potential internal improvements, applicant checklists, and
revisions to the Design Guidelines to address the adaptive architectural styles applicants are
submitting. Ms. Lee stated the tools STP has proposed could improve the early design process.
She added the trend in new house design is modifying and combining multiple existing
architectural styles. Ms. Lee noted the goal is to provide a review process that is predictable for
applicants, while also understandable for the invested, existing community. Councilperson
Thorne asked if the ARB chair would be involved in the STP review process. Ms. Lee stated that
STP expects to complete their review process in August and could potentially present
recommendations for discussion at the Joint Retreat of the City boards in September. She noted
this timeline would be dependent on the initial review of STP recommendations. Councilperson
Bruning moved to approved Resolution No. 2022-U for a contract with Sargent Town Planning
to update the City’s Design Guidelines and Design Review tools. Councilperson Weed seconded.
Councilperson Bruning stated he is interested in STP reviewing the elevation of the first-floor
plate and the potential impact of elevations changes to existing neighbors. He noted that the City
was platted for the development of specific house design and elevations. Ms. Lee stated elevation
recommendations could be considered as part of STP review process. Councilperson Nelson
noted the inclusion of a contingency spending authority in Resolution No. 2022-U and asked
why there was not a set bid amount. Ms. Lee stated STP provided a contact range and she
included additional contingency for potential travel costs for in person meetings and noted the
City rarely requires contingency spending. Mayor Dickey recommended providing staff the
discretion of contingency spending so that projects can proceed without interruption.
Councilperson Weed opined that the City could also engage residents who are professionals in
this field as part of the Design Guidelines review process. Mr. T. McQuaid noted there are
existing regulations that dictate the allowable elevations for constructing new homes.
Councilperson Bruning reiterated that changes to elevation during redevelopment can be
impactful to neighbors and requested this topic be part of STP review.
Approved 5-0.
REPORTS OF CITY STAFF
A. City Clerk
10
Ms. Woolbright referred to the City Calendar and noted the upcoming Community Engagement
Events and Juneteenth holiday. Councilperson Weed thanked staff for researching and identify
the residences included and excluded from the Tomahawk Roads Homes Association, which will
benefit the Homes Association and upcoming City-wide directory process.
B. City Administrator
Ms. Lee referred to the Tomahawk Road project update and noted the first mill and pave will
extend beyond 69th Street to at least the curve at 67th Street and Wenonga Road. She added the
stormwater work in front of the Indian Hills Country Club is complete and the stormwater work
at Seneca and 66th Street has begun.
C. Assistant City Administrator
Mr. Carroll reported that the Annual Street Fair was a success and reminded everyone of the
upcoming Community Engagement Committee activities. Councilperson Thorne noted resident’s
interest in food truck events and suggested including a coffee truck at the next Coffee with a Cop
event. Ms. Lee agreed and noted staff is currently working with the public safety team to select a
date for the next Mission Hills Coffee with a Cop event in September or October.
D. City Planner
There were no comments on the City Planner’s report.
MAYOR’S COMMENTS
Liaison Reports
Councilperson Weed reported the Planning Commission had recommended to Council vacating
the two Right-of-Ways and changes to Section 5-128 for non-conforming structures, which were
approved during this meeting. He added the Planning Commission elected Tom Roszak as Chair
and Chris Anderson as Vice Chair for the upcoming session.
Councilperson Thorne reported the ARB had a short agenda the previous week and would meet
again next week.
Councilperson Nelson noted that Councilperson Bruning attended the BZA meeting on her
behalf.
Councilperson Bruning reported the BZA met and determined to delay the review of the appeal
of the Mission Hills Country Club pickleball court due to pending litigation. He reported the
Park Board met and is in the process of inventorying all of the improvements and infrastructure
on the City’s islands.
11
Councilperson Perry reported the primary focus of the CPSC is the nuisance coyote issue and
stated the City has entered into an agreement with a trapping company for this purpose.
Mayor Dickey reported the Annual Street Fair was a well-attended success. He noted residents
would receive a follow up to the Public Safety letter with data through the month of May in the
beginning of July. Mayor Dickey added the next Newsletter will be sent to residents in the
beginning of August and his letter would include details on the proposed sales tax renewal. He
added as discussed at the Strategic Planning and Financial Retreat the importance of continued
road and infrastructure maintenance and the negative outcomes of falling behind on
maintenance.
Meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.
/s/ Meghan Woolbright
City Clerk
12
Agenda
MISSION HILLS CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
5:30 p.m. at City Hall
June 13, 2022
CALL TO ORDER REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1 APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS – May 9, 2022
2 PUBLIC SAFETY
A. Police Report
I. Camera and License Plate Reader (LPR) Installation Update
B. Fire District Report
3 CONSENT AGENDA*
A. Claims Ordinance No. 1614
B. Resolution No. 2022-O: CARS Program (2023-2027)
4 FINANCIAL REPORT
A. May Financial Report
B. Indebtedness Review
5 OLD BUSINESS
A. Repeat Nuisance Properties
B. Coyote Update
6 NEW BUSINESS
A. Ordinance No. 1615: Vacate a Right-of-Way at 6545 Wenonga Road
B. Ordinance No. 1616: Vacate a Right-of-Way at 5930 Oakwood Road
C. Ordinance No. 1617: Amending Section 5-128 - Non-Conforming Structures
D. Engineering Contracts
Resolution No. 2022-P: Contract with Lamp Rynearson for Engineering 2022 Capital
Project on 70th Terrace (State Line to Overhill)
Resolution No. 2022-Q: Contract with Water Resources Solutions - Engineering 2023
Capital Projects - Indian Lane (66th Street to Tomahawk Road), 70th Street and 66th Street
Resolution No. 2022-R: Contract with Water Resources Solutions - Stormwater Study of
Belinder Heights (Overhill to Rainbow from 67th Street to 65th Street)
Resolution No. 2022-S: Contract with Water Resources Solutions - Stormwater Study of
Verona Road (63rd Street to Overhill)
E. Resolution No. 2022-T: Sales Tax Renewal
F. Resolution No. 2022-U: Contract with Sargent Town Planning to Update Design
Guidelines and Design Review Tools
7 REPORTS OF CITY STAFF
A. City Clerk
B. City Administrator
C. Assistant City Administrator
D. City Planner
8 MAYOR’S COMMENTS
A. Liaison Reports
B. Appointments
ADJOURNMENT
*The following item(s) of business have been previously discussed by the Council in sufficient detail or are of such a routine and recurring nature that further
discussion is usually not anticipated before approval. If such is the case, the entire Consent Agenda can be approved with a single motion and vote. If, however, any
member of the governing body or any member of the audience wishes further discussion on any item, the Council may remove the item from the Consent Agenda
and place it for discussion under New Business.
Get email alerts for Mission Hills
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.