Winter/Spring 2013

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life MAGAZINE

Community Issue 2012 Year in Review

Community Center Feasibility Study

“My Blue Springs” Photo Contest winners

Blue Springs, MO 64015 MO Springs, Blue

903 West Main Street Street Main West 903 City of Blue Springs Blue of City

WWW.BLUESPRINGSGOV.COM Contents Year End Review Mayor’s Opening Letter 2 I generally give my annual State of the City Address at Healthy Foundations the November Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce 3 Downtown Alive! Update luncheon, but this year it has moved to the February luncheon. I invite all of you to join me on Thursday, Veterans Way Memorial February 21, 2013, 11:30 a.m. at the Adams Pointe 4 Winter Resources Conference Center. This year’s theme is ‘Take a Look Around’ and this edition of the magazine is a sneak Fiscal Fitness 5 preview of my presentation. 2012 Year in Review If you were unable to attend this year’s State of the City Parks & Recreation 6 Address, the presentation and video will be available in 2012 Year in Review late February at www.bluespringsgov.com/stateofthecity. 8 Community Development In 2012, we have made major strides in Public Safety, Infrastructure and Quality 2012 Year in Review of Life issues. Significant progress has been made on the implementation of the dedicated Public Safety Sales Tax initiative goals, construction on the Public Works 10 road and sewer bond projects are ahead of schedule and we have kicked off a 2012 Year in Review feasibility study to explore resident’s desire for a new community center here in 12 Police Department Blue Springs. Our past shows us that we are community that values innovation, infrastructure 2012 Year in Review enhancements, and a commitment to a strong business climate. Throughout Economic Development 14 this edition of the magazine, you’ll read how we seek resident input, engage Blue Springs elected officials and strengthen local and regional partnerships to achieve 15 Chamber of Commerce exciting things in our near and long term future. I invite you to keep up with all the great news here in Blue Springs by signing Central Jackson County up for my e-newsletter, joining us on Facebook or following us on Twitter. 20 Fire Protection District Gratefully in your service, Blue Springs 21 School District ‘My Blue Springs’ Photo Mayor Carson Ross 23 Contest Winners City Officials Let’s Move! Saturdays! Carson Ross, Mayor 24 Calendar Eric Johnson, City Administrator Contact Information Community Calendar City of Blue Springs District 1 Contact Numbers 25 903 West Main Street Dale Carter (816) 260-7003 Blue Springs, MO 64015 Jeff Quibell (816) 223-2865 816-228-0110 District 2 www.bluespringsgov.com Kent Edmondson (816) 228-7018 Chris Lievsay (816) 674-5108 Kim Nakahodo, editor “My Blue Springs” [email protected] District 3 Photo Contest Over All Winner, Grant Bowerman (816) 229-2726 Michael Freeman Ron Fowler (816) 228-1568

2 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Let’s Move! Blue Springs Healthy Foundations Monday initiative, the BackSnack program has by sending been expanded from the original seven home food elementary schools to all 13 elementary for students schools. Also, a new program named Healthy Foundations members from left to right: Brooke Roskop, to eat over the Healthy Foundations was formed to Reynold Schwabe, Steve Jorgensen, Glen Nash, Megan Truax, Selinda Ramsey, weekend. develop a weekend food program to the Debra Weibacher, Leah Anne Luethje, Audrey Merz and Steve Wieduwilt district’s four middle schools, Cub Care A recent and the Liggett Trail Education Center. study by The Let’s Move! Blue Springs initiative Midwest Center for Nonprofit This expansion was made possible by is now in its second year and has Leadership showed that students seed money donated by the Dardon launched several successful programs participating in the BackSnack program Group and Metcalf Bank. including Let’s Move! Saturdays, the overwhelmingly experienced positive Hy-Vee Kids Triathlon and the new “The Let’s Move! Blue Springs Initiative benefits including: Blue Springs Community Garden. provides a great resource of information • 68% exhibited improved behavior and support,” said Steve Jorgensen One of the Initial 8 projects was the and grades of Pointe of Hope Church. “But the expansion of the Blue Springs School • 84% improved their attendance rate needs of our community outweigh District’s BackSnack program. This • 77% increased their self-esteem, and what Harvesters and the faith-based program is a partnership between sense of responsibility community can provide. ” the Blue Springs School District, Harvesters, the Coalition for Kids and “I don’t think most people in our other faith-based organizations. community know how many of our kids go hungry,” said Debra Weilbacher of To support the Many families in the Blue Springs St. Peter United Methodist Church. School District rely on free or reduced- Healthy Foundations “Some schools in our city have over 50 fee school breakfasts and lunches percent of their students on either free program, contact for their school-age children. The or reduced-fee meal programs.” BackSnack program bridges the hunger StandUp Blue Springs gap that occurs between Friday and Through the Let’s Move! Blue Springs at (816) 478-4500.

Friends of Downtown Alive! Program These birdhouse-sized homes create a way for downtown visitors to share The Downtown Alive! group has books with each other. We invite you developed a ‘Friends of Downtown to visit the libraries in downtown and Alive!’ program that recognizes and bring a few old books with you (or pick encourages businesses and community up a few new ones!) members to financially support Downtown Blue Springs. To learn Third Annual Chili Lunch Fundraiser more about this program, contact Cindy The Downtown Alive! group will be Miller at (816) 228-2300. hosting their third annual Chili Lunch Little Free Library Project Fundraiser on February 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Student Life Center, Downtown visitors may have noticed 1301 W Main Street. Proceeds from a few new ‘houses’ cropping up along the fundraiser will go to beautification Main Street recently. Downtown Alive! efforts for the downtown corridor. has joined a national project called Little Free Library, whose mission is Tickets will be available at any to promote literacy and love of reading downtown merchant or at the Parks & by building free book exchanges world Recreation desk in February. wide.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 3 Department Spotlight: By the Numbers

Public(from Oct. 2011 Works to Sept. 2012)

New Water42 Connections Veterans Way Memorial Construction is well underway for the Veterans Water Main196 Breaks Repaired Way Memorial located in Pink Hill Park. This memorial would not be possible without the generous donations from our community. Veterans Way Memorial Veterans Way Memorial will serve as a place for Dedication Miles of Paved252 Streets Maintained personal contemplation or reflection for veterans and veterans families and friends. April 2, 2013, 3-5 p.m. For more information, contact (816) 655-0490, Pink Hill Park [email protected] or visit www.bluespringswallthatheals.net. 2715 NW Park Drive Miles of Water275.5 Mains Maintained

Fire Hydrants2,434 Maintained Winter Resources Snow Removal The Blue Springs Public Works Department maintains a 24-hour state of readiness from mid-November to mid-April for inclement weather. The Snow Removal Street Lights2,527 in Blue Springs Hotline number is (816) 228-0295. (280 Owned by Blue Springs) Potholes During the winter, the water under the pavement freezes, then thaws (contracting and expanding). This freeze/thaw cycle causes the pavement to crack so that it deteriorates quickly under the weight of traffic, and streets can seem to break out Potholes7,888 Repaired in potholes overnight.

To report a pothole, call the Pothole Hotline at (816) 228-0291 and leave the exact location of the hole, the nearest cross street, and your name and phone number so we may contact you if we have problems locating the hole. Gallons4,700,000 of Waste Water Treated Every Day Power Outages Winter storms can also cause power outages in the Blue Springs community. KCP&L would like to remind customers that safety is the number one priority for our crews and customers. Please remember to stay away from downed trees and power lines. Always assume a downed line is energized. If you are Gallons5,700,000 of Water Consumed in experiencing a power outage in your area, call 1 (888) 544-4852 or visit the Blue Springs on Average Every Day KCP&L website at www.kcpl.com.

4 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Blue Springs UnderstandingFiscal the 2012-13 Fitness Fiscal Year Budget

Other Cash Reserves $444,444 $2,401,681 Property Tax $5,263,243

City Sales Tax $6,844,498 The 2012-13 budget is the City of Blue Springs’ fiscal plan for the next year. It Transportation Sales Tax sets the goals and objectives the City Where the Money $3,178,530 wants to accomplish, including capital Comes From Public Safety Sales Tax improvement and public safety programs. $3,096,609

The budget projects revenues that the Bond Proceeds $16,000,000 City anticipates collecting and expenses Utility Franchise Fees $4,955,660 it expects to expend during the fiscal year (October 1 — September 30.) Interest Income $513,874 Taxes - Other Fines & Forfeits $4,498,135 The total budget for all funds is $958,192 $ Licenses & Permits 72,058,744. The graphs to the right $518,092

help illustrate revenues, expenditures and Other Government Sources Charges $3,672,515 capital improvements for the fiscal year Utility Service Fees for $15,239,543 Golf Course Services 2012-13. Fees $2,896,352 Total $1,577,374 $72,058,744 Capital Improvement expenditures focus on five priority areas: General Government Debt Service $6,067,057 $10,233,295 • The Public Safety Building

Improvements Public Works $3,399,797 • Woods Chapel Road Improvements – Voter Approved Street Project • Street Rehabilitation Program

Where the Public Safety/Community • Sidewalk Rehabilitation Program Youth Outreach Unit Money Goes $11,058,785 • Water and Sewer System Improvements Health - Emergency Capital Improvements Medical Service $23,407,000 $2,042,026 For more information on the City’s Parks and Recreation budget, visit www.bluespringsgov.com. $2,372,476 Social Services - 50+ Programs $333,935 Building Maintenance Capital Outlay Golf Course $674,827 $1,319,131 $1,308,980 Sewer Utility Water Utility Hotel/Motel $5,542,497 $160,000 $4,138,937 Total $72,058,744

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 5 2012Year in Review Parks & Recreation Quality Parks and Recreation Services The Parks & Recreation Department strives to create outstanding recreational, cultural and natural experiences to enrich and enhance the quality of life for our community today and for future generations.

New Department Director Dennis Dovel In January, Dennis Dovel was named as the new Director of the Parks and Recreation Department. As the Approximately 35 plots and 5 raised In November, downtown Blue Springs director, Dovel directs, plant beds are available for rent for was home to over 120 runners as the plans and oversees the 2013 grow season from March 1 City hosted its first Blue Springs 5K 19 parks consisting of 816 acres of through October 31. Family Fun Run. land and an annual budget of over five million dollars. HyVee Kids Triathlon Congratulations to all the participants This summer, kids were given the and we look forward to growing this chance to compete against their peers event next year. in Blue Springs’ first Kids Triathlon presented by Blue Springs Hy-Vee. On June 16, kids between the ages of 4-14 were encouraged to compete and have fun swimming, biking and running with friends. The Kids Triathlon was made possible thanks to the combined efforts of the Let’s Move! Blue Springs Kids Triathlon Committee, City of Blue Blue Springs Community Garden Springs, Mo., Blue Springs School Gardeners enjoyed the inaugural season New Playground Equipment at District, Blue Springs Family Y, of the new Community Garden located Pink Hill Park StandUp Blue Springs and the Blue in Central Park on the corner of Pink Hill Park is currently receiving Springs Hy-Vee. Walnut and 10th Street. Through the new playground equipment and landscaping mulch. Let’s Move! Blue Springs initiative, the Blue Springs 5K Family Fun Run City partnered with the University of Clocking in at just over 3 miles, 5Ks This new playground equipment is Missouri Extension Master Gardeners are one of the most popular race events designed for inclusive play including to host seminars throughout the grow for amateur and professional runners climbing and balance building. season. alike.

6 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Potential Amenities Community Center Could Include: Lazy River Pool Water Slides Study Lap Swimming Lanes TheFeasibility City Council and Park The study includes a statistically Pool Play features with sprays Commission recently kicked off a valid survey and a series of public and dump buckets feasibility study for a community meetings to provide residents with the center/natatorium in Blue Springs. opportunity to weigh in on a potential Zero Depth (Beach) Pool community center. Warm Water Therapy Pool The feasibility study, featuring numerous opportunities for public For more information on the feasibility Meeting Rooms input, will examine options related study or other issues related to a Theatre Space to size, amenities, programming and potential community center, contact Rock Climbing Wall community support. A final report, Dennis Dovel, Director of Parks & expected in April, will also include Recreation at (816) 228-0265. Teen Activity Room a market analysis, construction cost Child Care Rooms estimates, projected operating expenses and potential facility locations. Pre-teen space Gymnasium “I encourage everyone to get involved We Need You! and help us determine what kind of Community Center Indoor Walking Track community center would be best for Arts & Craft Room Feasibility Blue Springs,” said Mayor Carson Ross. Library Media Center “Do we include a swimming pool? Open House Meeting How big should the community center Children’s Indoor Playground be? What kind of usage fees would Birthday Party Rooms make sense? Where should we build January 8, 6:30 p.m. this center? This process will give us Spin Studio the answers we need to determine what Blue Springs Aerobic/Dance Rooms type of facility the community may Freshman Center Park Offices want.” 2103 NW Vesper Street Cardio / Weight Room

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 7 2012Year in Review Community Development Committed to a High Level of • sidewalk width and condition 5 years to address changes and trends “Livability” • street crossings that occur within our City over time. The Community Development • connectivity to parking Recent economic and development Department strives to provide • on-street and off-street parking trends including “green” or “sustainable” the highest-quality of current and • screening development, more compact residential long-range planning, zoning, code • tree canopy development, “form–based” codes, and enforcement and building construction • restorations cautious investment have created a services to the community. As a result of this audit, the City has very different environment in today’s applied for Safe Routes To School communities. Our goal in updating funding through MoDOT to help the City’s comprehensive plan is to install some of the recommendations, integrate this current day approach into such as new crosswalk markings, our long-range planning efforts. pedestrian and school signage, and Similarly the City’s Unified accessible sidewalk ramps. Development Code, which includes In June 2012, the City hosted zoning and design requirements, needs a Designing Walkable Urban to be consistent with, and address Thoroughfares Workshop led by issues defined in, the Comprehensive Livable Streets & Walkability Congress for New Urbanism, for Plan. Providing more clarity to our Workshops planners, engineers, and community codes and simplifying the development process is our goal in updating the Livable – or complete – streets are leaders in Blue Springs and Unified Development Code. roadways designed to allow for safe and neighboring communities. The convenient travel by motor and transit workshop explored walkable and vehicles; pedestrians, including those sustainable design solutions for the with disabilities; and bicyclists. intersection of Highways 7 and 40 in Get involved! Blue Springs. Building off of the 2011 Livable If you would like to be part Streets Resolution, the City of Blue Updates to the City’s Comprehensive of the planning process, Plan and Unified Development Code Springs, along with the EPA as part of call (816) 228-0207 or their Building Blocks for Sustainable Many people ask “Why update the e-mail compplanupdate@ Communities, hosted a Neighborhood Comprehensive Plan?” One reason is Walkability Audit and Workshop that the City’s Charter requires that the bluespringsgov.com. in April 2012. The focus was on two Comprehensive Plan be updated every elementary school areas: James Walker Elementary and Thomas Ultican Elementary. Participants evaluated the conditions and challenges of the existing street and sidewalk conditions. The group used cameras, measuring tapes, etc. to discuss key issues, site design and visioning for these particular areas. Recommendations were made on:

8 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Top 10 Codes Tips for 2013

In order to keep Blue Springs a clean and safe community, Community Development administers several important city codes and ordinances regarding the upkeep of public and private properties. You can help make Blue Springs a quality place to live by observing the following city codes reminders all year long. Tips listed in order of complaints/violations received in 2012.

1. Resident Lawns 5. Off-Premise Signs Lawns should not exceed 8 inches in height. Eradicate any Garage and yard sale signs must be placed on your own poison ivy on the premise of your residential property. property. They may not be posted on public utility/light poles or on public rights-of-way of streets. These signs do 2. Trash/Brush Piles not require a permit. Signs cannot be posted on premises for Brush piles must be removed and properly disposed of. Open longer than 3 days per sale. burning is not permitted within City limits. 6. Parked Vehicles Parking of cars and trucks is not permitted on grass and lawns. Recreational Vehicles (RV’s) can be stored in driveways, side yards or rear yards if access is available.

7. Fence, Deck and Pool Construction A new deck, fence or pool construction requires a City building permit. All pools holding 24 inches of water or more, including inflatable pools, must have a permit from the Codes Administration Department.

8. Street Numbers For emergency response purposes, street numbers must be displayed on addressed structures in a position easily observed and readable from the public right of way. 3. Inoperable Vehicles Numbers must contrast with the background and be Arabic Must be stored inside a garage or removed from the numerals at least 4 inches high and one-half inch stroke. premises. For inoperable vehicles in the street, contact 9. Tree Limbs the Blue Springs Police Department at (816) 228-0150. Limbs that overhang the sidewalk or street must be Commercial vehicles weighing more than 6 tons, boom and trimmed. Call Public Works at (816) 228-0195 if you have tow trucks are not permitted in residential districts. questions about limbs in the rights-of-way of streets. 4. Trash Containers 10. Disposal of Refrigerators Trash for pick up should be placed no further than 5 feet When disposing of refrigerators or airtight containers, from the home. Curbside pick up is prohibited. All trash always remove the container door or secure the door with a must be contained at all times. chain and lock.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 9 2012Year in Review Public Works Excellence in Infrastructure Bitmap Image Sunny Side Improvements The Public Works Department Bitmap Image The Public Works Operations provides a quality environment for Blue Building received a small Springs and ensures that the City’s building expansion and many roadways, streets and infrastructure site improvements in 2012. are safe, clean, and attractive. The department is committed to providing an invaluable service to residents, as well as encouraging and educating its employees with the knowledge, skills, and equipment necessary for optimal performance. Remembering Dr. Oliver De Grate III 2008-12 Street Overlay Program Map In September, Legend long-time Public 2012 Overlay 18 miles Works Director Dr. Leg2e01n1d Overlay 19 miles 201220 O10v eOrlvaeyr l1a8y m18il emsiles Oliver De Grate III 201210 O09ve Orlvaeyr 1la9y m24ile msiles 201200 O08v eOrlvaeyr l1a8y m25il emsiles

passed away from 2009 Overlay 24 miles Revision 6/15/12 an illness. Dr. De 2008 Overlay 25 miles 2008 - 2012 Overlay Project The Fleet Maintenance Grate was a key Revision 6/15/12 Street Maintenance and Improvements0 1,0002,000 4,000 Feet building was expanded by 2008 - 2012 Overlay Project · member of the four equipment bays to better serve city’s management team, and a licensed The highly-effective Street Overlay0 1,000 2,000 4,000 Feet · Project continues in the 2012-13 the over 300 vehicles and pieces of Professional Engineer with nearly 40 equipment maintained by Public years of experience in city government. budget. In the last five years, 104 miles of streets have been overlaid and staff is Works. Dr. De Grate began his career with working on completing the 2013 plan the City of Blue Springs in 1993, and with improvements slated to begin this provided leadership and oversight for spring. many of the city’s major infrastructure projects including Adams Dairy Street maintenance is an area that the Parkway, Sni-Bar Wastewater City Council has invested significant Treatment Plant, Chapman Farms resources. Almost 85 percent of our Neighborhood Improvement District, general fund Capital Improvement dollars go towards this maintenance and most recently transportation The site was improved with a dedicated improvements to Woods Chapel Road, program - $2.3 million dollars each year. entrance off of US Highway 40 to among numerous other projects. reduce heavy truck traffic in the Dr. De Grate’s commitment to adjoining neighborhoods, and a improving the quality of life in Blue regional storm water detention facility Springs will be celebrated for years to improve water quality and flow to come due to the legacy he leaves characteristics of the storm water behind. runoff.

10 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Voter-Approved Bond Projects Update

Construction has made considerable progress thanks to the warm and dry weather conditions. Several components of the project are completed including the reconstruction of Duncan Road; construction of the new South Outer Road; reconstruction of Valley View Road; creation of the new NW 36th Street; reconstruction of Valley View Place and construction of the new Park-n-Ride Commuter Lot. Sni-A-Bar Sewer Treatment Plant The Sni-A-Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant has reached substantial completion. The expansion includes an additional four million gallons per day of influent capacity along with new processes in tertiary filtration and ultraviolet disinfection.

Construction is currently underway on the I-70 Interchange; the east side of Woods Chapel Road, south of I-70; reconstruction of Jefferson Street, Kingsridge Drive; Castle Drive and the realigned North Outer Road.

Please note that the speed limit in the Woods Chapel Road The expanded plant should satisfy the sanitary sewer corridor has been reduced to 25 miles per hour and fines will capacity needs for Blue Springs and Grain Valley for the be doubled in the construction zone. We want to ensure the next 20 years. safety of both motorists and workers. Woods Chapel Road improvements The Woods Chapel Road corridor is one of the most anticipated projects in the street improvement bond. This project combined two separate phases of the originally proposed Woods Chapel Road improvements, relocates the Outer Road and adds a diverging diamond interchange. This cutting-edge design will be one of the first ten constructed in the country.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 11 2012Year in Review Police Department Continuing Public Safety Excellence approximately 15 BSPD employees District, and are the proud parents The Blue Springs Police Department who volunteered to participate in the of two children who attend the Blue is committed to meeting the ever- process. Springs School District. changing needs of our community The Accreditation award is for three and to maintaining agency excellence years, during which BSPD must Civic Engagement in both proactive and responsive law submit annual reports attesting The Blue Springs Citizen’s Police enforcement needs. With 138 full- continued compliance with those Academy has now graduated 13 classes time employees consisting of 99 sworn standards under which it was initially of more than 225 citizens who are now police officers and 38 full-time and 2 accredited. better informed about Blue Springs law part-time civilians; the Department’s enforcement programs and practices. mission is to provide the highest quality police services to the Blue As a result of the Police Academy, our Springs community by promoting a Volunteers in Police Services program safe environment through police and or VIPS continues to be a success resident partnerships. with 30 active members. In 2012, these members have logged over 7,000 volunteer hours valued at $149,535 in labor! If you are interested in participating in Bob Muenz named Deputy Chief any of these programs, call Sgt. Allen Kintz at (816) 228-0178. After a rigorous hiring process that included an independent review panel with representatives from the City, Citizen Public Safety Board, area law enforcement and community partners; CALEA Accreditation we are proud to welcome Deputy Chief In July 2012, the Blue Springs Bob Muenz to the Blue Springs Police Police Department (BSPD) received Department! Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Deputy Chief Bob Muenz brings 13 Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). years of experience as the Chief of Police of Oak Grove, where he has The Shop with A Blue Springs Cop This process ensures that a law developed his agency to become one of program is designed to provide a enforcement agency is in compliance the finest small city departments in the happier holiday season to at-risk with national standards that address metro area. children in Blue Springs by providing best practices in every aspect of policy, a way for these kids to interact with procedure and performance. Prior to his time with Oak Grove, Bob spent 7 years as an Officer/Sergeant in police officers in a positive setting. The Accreditation Program the Warrenton, Mo. Police Department Manager for the Blue Springs Police Thank you again to all the event where he gained experience in Department is Sergeant Linda DeMo. sponsors and volunteers that help everything from bicycle patrol to fitness Sergeant DeMo was assisted by many make this event possible. If you are instructor to crisis negotiation. Deputy members of the department, including interested in getting involved, call Chief Muenz and his wife Suzie the “Accreditation Team” made up of Officer Brotherton at (816) 935-6770. reside in the Blue Springs R-4 School

12 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Public Safety Sales Tax

Updateequipment, they will be rolling out into the community. Personnel Most of the new personnel positions have been hired including the new deputy chief, radio specialist, evidence custodian and animal control officer. Recruiting efforts are in progress for the detention officers and are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2014. These new positions will help us reduce our response times to emergency and non-emergency calls; provide more on-duty officers in neighborhoods and In April 2011, voters approved the The department has successfully met the retail locations and provide more hours Dedicated Public Safety Sales Tax. unfunded 2013 FCC Narrowbanding to animal control and evidence. This dedicated Public Safety Sales Tax Mandate. Special thanks to Captain Facilities provides funding for new equipment, Robert Morton and IT Director In November 2012, Treanor Architects personnel and the expansion of the Dan Hood along with many other was selected to provide the architectural Howard L. Brown Public Safety City employees for their hard work and engineering services for the Building. to get this project completed ahead of expansion and remodel of the Howard schedule. The Public Safety Advisory Board, L. Brown Public Safety Building. made up of Blue Springs citizens, In addition to the radio system, five new is charged with oversight of the tax. patrol cars have been purchased and Currently, Treanor is working with city The Advisory Board make regularly nineteen new patrol car cameras have staff to explore design options that will scheduled reports to the City Council been replaced. fit the needs of the department for years to come. on spending of funds collected by the The new police cars are Ford tax and report on performance goals. Interceptors and are sporting a Construction is expected to begin in the Implementation of the initiative is on new paint design. Once these cars first quarter of 2014 with completion in schedule and providing a great resource are outfitted with the appropriate 2015. for safety in Blue Springs. Equipment In November 2012, the Blue Springs Police Department experienced one of many milestones to come with the successful radio system cutover. The cutover happened at ‘high noon’ and was a smooth transition. The new radio system, funded by the Public Safety Sales Tax Initiative, is now the primary radio system used by officers and dispatch. These radios are a huge step forward with officer safety being the goal.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 13 2012Year in Review Economic Development Economic Development: Facilitating Collaboration and Partnership Blue Springs Economic Development Corporation (EDC) exists to promote business development and investment, lead to the creation of jobs, and support economic development in the City of Blue Springs, Missouri. The EDC partners with the City of Blue Springs, and collaborates with the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, Blue Springs School District, Central Jackson County Fire Protection District and the business One success story launched by GBS, Health/One Medicine,” which reflects community. has gained national attention for Blue both the continuum and convergence Springs. The Sweet Tooth Cupcakery, of food, nutrition, wellness and moving owned by Trevor and Amy Goodwin, medical discoveries from bench to was featured on the hit show, “Cupcake patient, and sharing discoveries and Wars”, on the Food Network in October. treatments between humans and Founded in 2010, The Sweet Tooth animals. This regional focus is in line opened its commercial location in with the Missouri Innovation Park January 2012 at 3100 D S. Highway 7. project. Development and Redevelopment Downtown Revitalization In the past eight to twelve months, a The EDC continues to support the significant push of redevelopment and Downtown Alive! initiative and the Grow Blue Springs new greenfield site construction on Jackson County Commuter Corridor North Highway 7 has occurred. Several Alternatives Analysis. Both of these A unique online platform that allows other projects including QuikTrip, the efforts have renewed interest in growth, entrepreneurs and business owners redevelopment of the former 84 Lumber, development and investment in to plan their business from idea to Mirror Image Car Wash and Walmart downtown Blue Springs. implementation and expansion, at Neighborhood Market are taking shape. their own pace, the EDC successfully The EDC continues to work closely launched Grow Blue Springs in May Highways 40 and 7 are experiencing with the City on retail, theatre and 2012. The program promotes business continued leasing and investment, and downtown office/residential and development by giving entrepreneurs the redevelopment of Woods Chapel restaurant projects throughout Blue access to tools, funding and the local Road is spurring renewed interest in Springs. resources needed to succeed. retail development along that corridor. Kansas City Animal Health Corridor At the three Grow Blue Springs (GBS) Brien Starner events held this year, attendees were The Kansas City Animal Health President able to listen to several businesses Corridor is one of the several Sher Lopez present their ideas for growth, for a new complementary and overlapping Business & Investor Relations business, learn about crowdfunding and strategic regional growth initiatives participate and network with potential that the EDC can leverage. Within the (816) 228-0208 investors. region, there is a solid focus on “One www.bluespringsedc.com

14 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce Welcome to the Blue Springs parades promoting business in Blue Springs. The program Chamber of Commerce! For is designed so individuals will spend their dollars in Blue many years you have heard that Springs. This program helps chamber members advertise we are a community ON THE and promote their businesses and products. We have MOVE….And folks, we are. also combined Buy Blue Springs with our Visitor Task We are not just on the move; Force, whose mission is much the same. We want to make we are growing by leaps and everyone aware, that Blue Springs offers a destination spot bounds. It is an exciting time for people to shop, play, work and live. to be in Blue Springs. The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce The Blue Springs Chamber will always continue to work is dedicated to making the growth closely with our local city government, The Blue Springs Bill Fickle in our business community a top EDC, Central Jackson County Fire District, The Blue Side Pockets priority, while supporting our Springs School District, as well as numerous civic and Chairperson of the Board current businesses to reach new other local groups to develop and better our city. We will heights. continue to work with our legislators to help business grow and thrive in our community. And as always, we, as The business developments we have had over the last 5 a group, work diligently to be open and inviting to new years are staggering. The Adams Dairy Landing projects, ideas, innovations, and opportunities that happen in Blue the renovation of 40 and 7 and Woods Chapel, and the Springs. At the same time remaining focused on our expanding growth on the north and south end of the 7 mission, of growing and supporting what we feel is the highway corridor are just a few examples of the growth best city in the State of Missouri. The Chamber is a large we are seeing. And of course, Downtown Alive! Our group of passionate, caring individuals who that want to main street district of Blue Springs is experiencing a see our city excel to new heights, and the good thing is, Renaissance due to some great new businesses and some together we are doing it! very dedicated individuals. We are moving forward with great enthusiasm, and I look If you are a member of the Blue Springs Chamber, you are forward to another fantastic year of seeing Blue Springs a member of the Buy Blue Springs program. Our mascot, grow, and soar to new heights! Lil’ Blue is seen at events all over town and marching in

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 15 L.E.A.D.ership

Leadership Blue Springs was Blue Springs established in 1991 by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce to develop a community leadership pool. What is L.E.A.D. Blue Springs? To date there have been 250 business and community leaders who have L – Leadership graduated from the program. E – Education Participants in the class will develop skills and knowledge of the Blue A – Action Springs and other surrounding D – Development communities through a series of workshops that focus on business, and helping to work towards making government, quality of life, volunteer Harry S Truman said, “Men make our community better. history, and not the other way services and local history. Many of the L.E.A.D. graduates have already around. In periods where there is Do YOU want to grow as a leader and joined some of the local organizations no leadership, society stands still. learn how YOU can help make things and boards and are using the skills Progress occurs when courageous, better? Applications for the next class they developed during their class, and skillful leaders seize the opportunity to will be accepted beginning July 2013! change things for the better.” are doing their part to make history Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival September 13-15, 2013 will tasty, traditional and not so traditional festival food vendors. It’s a great time be the 44th annual Blue to shop the downtown Main Street Springs Fall Fun Festival in merchants. The festival is also host to downtown Blue Springs! one of the largest parades in Eastern Jackson County. The festival is a large, regional, only for the chamber, but for the many community celebration that attracts Not only is the Fall Fun Festival a great community organizations that have more than 130,000 attendees each year community event, but it is the largest booths and consider this one of their to downtown Blue Springs. non-dues fundraiser for the Blue major fundraisers for the year. Springs Chamber of Commerce. The The festival is a free admission street Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6, For more information regarding the fair, geared toward families, featuring a a not-for-profit business organization. festival, purchasing booth spaces carnival midway, concerts, community By doing non-dues fundraisers like the for next year or entering the parade, performers, and more than 280 festival, we are able to keep members’ contact the Blue Springs Chamber of vendors that are a mix of market and dues lower without impacting services. Commerce at 816-229-8558 or visit commercial vendors, arts and crafts Hundreds of people volunteer not www.BlueSpringsFallFestival.com. vendors, game vendors and plenty of

16 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Blue Springs

Each year at the Chamber’s annual banquet the Chamber celebrates its activities of the year and presents its goals for the coming year. The ChamberChamber also presents several awards. Congratulations to the following Awards honorees from the 2012 Annual Banquet.

Outstanding Citizen – Outstanding Business Roscoe Righter of the Year – The Village These individuals have a history of Gardens involvement in the community and have This award is given to that made significant contributions to the business which distinguishes itself betterment of Blue Springs. Roscoe by its extraordinary contribution Righter was nominated by Blue Springs at large, as an employer, a business Public Art Commission & Blue Springs and a corporate citizen. The Art League and the City of Blue Springs. recipient of the 2011 Business of the Year was The Village Gardens, Recently retired, Roscoe Righter started owned by TJ and Dana Nigro. his career with the City of Blue Springs in 1979 as the city’s first Parks & Recreation Director. As the city grew from 20,000 Village Gardens was established in 1984 in Blue Springs to 53,000 there were seven parks consisting of 167 acres of land; and is a local, family owned business. The original store was today there are nineteen parks consisting of 816 acres of land demolished and replaced by the existing store in April of 2007, with numerous recreation programs and services. representing a significant investment in the Blue Springs In addition to building a highly utilized and widely recognized community. They are a full service florist specializing in parks system, Roscoe also serves as the liaison to the City’s weddings and events of all occasions. Known for their roses, Public Art Commission. With his guidance, goals for the they import directly from California, Ecuador and Columbia provision and promotion of public art have been surpassed with guaranteeing their customers the finest, freshest roses for 36 art pieces displayed throughout the city. everyday arrangements and special events. TJ serves on the board of the Blue Springs Business Association, the Chamber and serves as the Co-chair of the Buy Blue Springs committee. Both TJ and Dana recently joined the Blue Springs South Jaguars Booster Club. Connector of the Year – Outstanding Business Person of the Ralph Habben Year – Rachel Hummel, MC Power The Blue Springs Chamber of Companies, Inc. Commerce Connector’s committee acts as the primary liaison to This award recognizes the local business our membership in the areas of person that best exemplifies the spirit of member retention, recruitment and Blue Springs as the “City of Cooperation” through community. communication. This award recognizes Rachel Hummel has been in construction management for 16 the Connector that best typifies the years. Rachel is a graduate of the Citizen’s Police Academy and spirit of the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce. The 2011 active in the Volunteers in Police Service program. She also Connector of the Year was Ralph Habben. Ralph was present recently completed the Community Emergency Response Team at most if not all functions – networking events, luncheons, Program which educates people about disaster preparedness. meetings, blitzes, ribbon cuttings, and always willing to go above and beyond – helping in the office, assisting with special Her outstanding leadership is evident in her efforts as co- projects, and gives 100 percent to all activities pursued. Some chair of the Fall Fun Festival and her dedication to her role of the myriad accomplishments supported include website as a member of the board of directors if the Chamber. Her assistance, the Buy Blue Springs effort, supports the Fall Fun professional excellence and commitment to quality is evident in Fest, the annual banquet, visitor’s council, sponsorships and is a her role with the rehabilitation of the Chamber office building. regular face in the office lending a hand where needed.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 17 TheLil’ BlueAdventures from BuyBlueSprings.com of The Buy Blue Springs program is part of the program of work of the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce. This program includes education and outreach about why it So Why Buy is important to Buy Blue Springs and how it helps our community. Blue Springs? With so many large municipalities surrounding our area it’s tempting to drive outside Blue Springs to shop. If we all take the time to think about where our purchases are made and if we stopped, thought, and made conscious decisions to buy Blue Springs, it would mean more for all of us! Buying Blue Springs: • Keeps Dollars in the Local Economy • Increases Local Jobs and Wages • Supports Entrepreneurship • Creates Competition • Encourages Product Diversity • Rewards Local Decision Making • Builds Community Well- Being

The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce is now providing a mobile app (MyChamberApp) that helps consumers find discounts, events, and services offered by chamber of commerce members. MyChamberApp provides maps, locations, phone numbers, Available to iPhone, iPod, websites, images, and even videos to help consumers make Android and Blackberry shopping decisions. users for FREE!

18 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com What is the

The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce strives to meet the continuously changing needs of its members while at the same time being an effective, influential community partner. As a proactive business organization, the Blue Springs Chamber uses its strengths and diverse resources to ensure that Blue Springs remains a dynamic and vital economic? center. The mission of the Chamber is to promote, develop and facilitate a positive business environment in which the business community can grow and prosper.

816-229-8558 | www.BlueSpringsChamber.com Things the Chamber does in the community Helps build and educate community leaders through programs like SATURDAY 1 NOVEMBER 24 L.E.A.D. and genbluesprings. 10Small Business Saturday® sits between Black Friday and Cyber Monday and is dedicated to driving sales to small businesses on one of the busiest holiday shopping weekends of the year. Support the Shop Small® movement and invest in the small businesses that help fuel our economy and invigorate our community. Provides ongoing education to business leaders at luncheons, Power Why Buy Blue Springs? 2 It is always tempting to shop outside of Blue Springs. We encourage you to think about where your purchases are made and make a conscious decision to invest in your community. Hour Learning Seminars and other events, as well as in weekly written Buying Blue Springs:

• Keeps Dollars in the Local Economy • Encourages Product Diversity • Provides Local Jobs and Wages • Facilitates Local Decision Making • Supports Entrepreneurship • Builds Community Well-Being communications and a monthly newsletter. • Creates Local Competition

Program presented by: www.BuyBlueSprings.com Keeps the business community informed about legislative issues 3 potentially affecting business. 4 Cultivates volunteers for community activities. 5 Plans and promotes the Fall Fun Festival, a community celebration. Promotes the Buy Blue Springs program and website at 6 BuyBlueSprings.com to encourage residents to buy locally first. Promotes Blue Springs to visitors in our community with 7 DiscoverBlueSprings.com. Works with existing businesses and those who are new to Blue Springs 8 to help them become the best they can be. Helps businesses celebrate successes with ribbon cuttings, after hours 9 and special promotions. Promotes businesses in the community with the MyChamberApp, 10 social media and BlueSpringsChamber.com.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 19 In 2012, CJC responded to a EMS Program historic number of large fires in The responsibilities of today’s fire to breathe and receive needed oxygen our community. The summer was departments have changed from fighting more effectively. hot and dry, creating a hazardous fires to also taking care of patients ST elevation is a sign of a serious heart fire potential. Added to this risky through emergency medical (EMS) condition. By recognizing this condition environment were the dangers of programs. There are a number of things early from an EKG, CJC can alert the fireworks and smoking materials. that allow Central Jackson County Fire hospital to the patient’s condition before Protection District (CJC) to deliver they arrive at the emergency room, On July 4, CJC responded to an quality care to our patients. apartment fire at the Autumn Place which notifies a surgical team and saves Apartments. The fire was caused In addition to the standards CJC crucial minutes from symptom onset to by the misuse of fireworks and the employees are held to and the support of critical interventions. This saves heart the communities we protect, technology muscle and significantly increases the flames completely destroyed the and education play large roles. In chance of a more positive recovery. 3-story, multi-family building. EMS, methods of care, equipment, and Education allows CJC to remain on the medicines are constantly changing and The second large-scale fire that forefront of patient care. Since 2000, CJC is committed to changing with CJC responded to was on July 6 Assistant Chief Elsa Tuttle has used her them. Some of the additions to the care at the Blue Springs Comfort Inn. skills and experience to create an EMS we provide are therapeutic hypothermia, The fire was caused by a carelessly education program that is regionally aggressive airway management, and discarded cigarette that lead to the recognized as an EMS education serious cardiac event recognition. destruction of the 72-unit hotel. leader. In addition to education for In therapeutic hypothermia, the body CJC employees, classes are offered for On July 8, a landfill north of Blue is cooled after a patient is resuscitated all levels of EMS from basic emergency Springs caught fire and burned for from a cardiac arrest. This process is medical technician to paramedic, and two days. The smoke was thick and done by using specific medicines, cooled certification classes such as Advance lingered over covered the north end intra-venous fluids, and ice packs placed Cardiac Life Support and Pre Hospital of Blue Springs for several days. in specific areas of the body. This cooling Trauma Life Support. The Critical Care The smoldering fire was finally allows the body metabolism to slow Emergency Medical Transport course extinguished by the management down, reducing heart damage from brings students from across the country. insufficient blood flow after a cardiac company operating the landfill. With Assistant Chief Tuttle retiring arrest. in 2013, Terisa McGinnis will manage This year also saw numerous outside Another addition is the ability to secure the CJC EMS education programming deck fires caused by smoking an airway in patients that, due to trauma for both internal and external students. materials, barbeque grills and food or serious illness, may have severe Terisa is an EMS educator for St. Mary’s smokers. difficulty breathing. By administering and CJC and as a RN, managed the specific medicines, the patient is emergency room and birthing center. Please be extremely careful as fires sedated to allow for the placement of an CJC would like to thank Assistant Chief start easily and can move quickly. advanced airway, giving them the ability Tuttle for her years of dedicated service.

20 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com District Buildings Receive Energy BLUE SPRINGS Star Certification SCHOOL DISTRICT The Blue Springs School District is committed to providing the best educational experiences and opportunities to its students while keeping costs and quality at their most efficient. Twelve One aspect the District has been focused on is its energy consumption and costs. That commitment has resulted in 13 BSSD buildings being designated with the Energy Star Years of Certification from the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Perfect To achieve Energy Star certification, a building must obtain a rating of 75 of a possible 100 points. Achieving a 75 rating means a building is performing in the top 25 percent of APR all K-12 buildings nationwide concerning its energy consumption. There are 53 schools in Missouri to achieve Energy Star certification and 25 percent of those are in our district. Scores The following buildings have achieved Energy Star certification:, Blue Springs High School, The Blue Springs Blue Springs South High School, Valley View High School, Blue Springs Freshman Center, School District has Delta Woods Middle School, Sunny Vale Middle School, Chapel Lakes Elementary, Cordill- once again received a Mason Elementary, James Walker Elementary, John Nowlin Elementary, , Thomas Ultican perfect score on the Elementary, William Bryant Elementary and the Gale T. Bartow Administration Center. Annual Performance Dan Anderson, BSSD Director of Buildings and Grounds, said the reduced energy costs help Report by Department put even more funds into programs that directly improve our students’ education. “We are of Elementary and proud of each building’s staff for their efforts to help us reduce our utility costs,” he said. “This Secondary Education. allows our money to be spent on the direct instruction of our students.” This is the twelfth year in a row that the BSSD has received a perfect score.

Technology Provides The APR is based on a variety of factors, New Educational including Missouri Assessment Program Opportunity scores, end-of-course District students are seeing new and exciting exams, graduation educational opportunities right at their and attendance rates, fingertips thanks to the introduction of more ACT results, advanced than 500 iPads and iPods in to classrooms. placement courses offered and career Teachers and students are enjoying a wide variety of applications for the new technology education placement. – ranging from early childhood special education classes at Liggett Trail to science and The Blue Springs geometry lessons at the middle school level. Deaf and hard of hearing students have also School District is seen great advances through the hands-on teaching tool. Students have proven to be very one of only five technically savvy and have been able to quickly pick up the interactive features. school districts in this state to have twelve “One advantage is more individualized instruction,” said Delta Woods Middle School consecutive years of Teacher Lisa Hecht. “When one of those ‘teachable moments’ arises, I have instantaneous Distinction. technology at my fingertips to answer questions or take my lesson in a new direction. Using an iPad as a guide for students opens up lots of learning opportunity and flexibility.”

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 21 Most Distinguished Principal Award Cordill-Mason Elementary Principal Greg Johnson was recently given the 2012 Most Distinguished Principal Award from the Kansas City District Suburban Elementary Principals’ Association. Johnson is in his ACT first year as CME Principal after six years as principal at James scores Walker Elementary. CME staff and students celebrated the KCSEPA award with a surprise assembly to reach congratulate their principal. Johnson wore a crown and sash provided by students and enjoyed a presentation from the school’s autism program, which provided him a poster and a shirt. record Johnson’s family also surprised him by attending the assembly. highs “This certainly is a humbling honor,” Johnson said. “It is a reflection of the wonderful people I get to teach with every day and a very supportive and understanding family. This is an honor BSSD students that needs to be shared with all.” have registered outstanding scores on the ACT test.

Both Blue Springs Wildcats Win High School and Blue Springs State Football South High School improved their Championship average scores from 2011. Students at The Blue Springs Wildcats football team BSHS averaged captured its fourth state championship in a score of 23.4 its history Saturday with a 42-3 victory and South saw its over Francis Howell in the Missouri average improve to Class 6 title game. The 13-1 Wildcats rode 181 yards rushing and two touchdowns from Dalvin 22.9. Each school Warmack and a smothering defensive effort to the latest title trophy. Quarterback Wylson averaged a score of Lamb added two rushing touchdowns and 122 yards on 11-of-14 passing with another score. 22.6 last year. Warmack became the second junior in history to hoist the illustrious Thomas A. Simone Award honoring the most outstanding high school football player in the Kansas City area. In a The combined surprise ceremony at the high school, Warmack was honored for his 2012 season that included average score of 23.2 2,279 yards rushing and 45 touchdowns that led the Cats to the Missouri Class 6 State marks the first time Championship. Warmack is the first Wildcat to win the award since Ladell Betts in 1996 and in District history to fourth in school history. Teammate Elijah Lee was also honored, winning the Buck Buchanan score above a 23 on Award, which recognizes the area’s best lineman or linebacker. Coach Kelly Donohoe was the ACT test. named the Metro Sports Missouri Coach of the Year.

22 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com ‘My Blue Springs’ Photo Contest

Michael Freeman, Over All Winner

We are proud to announce the winners of the third annual ‘My Blue Springs’ Photo Contest! This contest was open to photographers of all ages. Thank you to everyone who entered!

To see all of the photos entered into this year’s contest, visit www. bluespringsgov.com/photocontest. Sara Adams, Youth Category

Kelsey Cragg, Adult Category Gerald White, Senior Category

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 23 SATURDAYS 2013 SPRING schedule All events are free and open to all Check our website for updates! www.LetsMoveBlueSprings.org

Jan. 5 Blue Springs Family YMCA March 2 Watson Rolladium noon to 1300 Adams Dairy Parkway 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive 3 p.m. Open Swim Open roller skating Jan. 5 Watson Rolladium March 9 Club 7 Fitness 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive 9-11 a.m. 1241 SW Highway 7 Open roller skating Kids Fit Boot Camp, fitness activities, open gym for adults Jan. 12 Club 7 Fitness 9-11 a.m. 1241 SW Highway 7 March 9 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue Kids Fit Boot Camp, fitness activities, 1:30-3:30 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive open gym for adults Open Swim March 16 Gage Center Jan. 12 Dynamic Dance 10:30 a.m. 1101 NW Jefferson 11 a.m. to 1901 SW Highway 40 to noon Bouncing with the Bunny noon Let’s Move! Dance Party March 16 Metro East Tennis Center Jan. 19 Lit Fitness 2-3:30 p.m. 3109 Vesper 9-10:30 a.m. 1218 NW Woods Chapel Road Tennis Activities High energy circuit training March 23 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue Jan. 26 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue 1:30-3:30 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive 1:30-3:30 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive Open Swim Open Swim March 30 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue Feb. 2 Dynamic Dance 1:30-3:30 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive 11 a.m. to 1901 SW Highway 40 Open Swim noon Let’s Move! Dance Party April 6 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue Feb. 2 Blue Springs Family YMCA 1:30-3:30 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive noon to 1300 Adams Dairy Parkway Open Swim 3 p.m. Open Swim April 13 Club 7 Fitness Feb. 9 Watson Rolladium 9-11 a.m. 1241 SW Highway 7 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive Kids Fit Boot Camp, fitness activities, Open roller skating open gym for adults April 13 Adams Pointe Golf Club Feb. 16 Club 7 Fitness 2-4 p.m. 1400 NE Coronado Drive 9-11 a.m. 1241 SW Highway 7 Free range balls, beginner instruction Kids Fit Boot Camp, fitness activities, open gym for adults April 13 Watson Rolladium 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive Feb. 23 Gage Center Open roller skating 10:30 a.m. 1101 NW Jefferson to noon Bump City April 20 Lunar Bowl 2-4 p.m. 2001 NW Highway 7 March 2 Independence Events Center Bowling (clean tennis shoes required) 2:10-4:10 p.m. 19100 E. Valley View Parkway Ice skating with the Wranglers, April 27 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue Missouri Mavericks official fan club. 1:30-3:30 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive Beginner instruction available. Open Swim

24 Winter/Spring 2013 • www.bluespringsgov.com Community

CalendarMother/Son Valentine Dance January Feb. 8, 6-9 p.m. Christmas Tree Recycling Vesper Hall December 26 through January 13 Pink Hill Park Daddy/Daughter Valentine Dance Community Center Meeting Feb. 9, 6-9 p.m. Jan. 8, 6:30 p.m. Vesper Hall Blue Springs Freshman Center “$ale-ing Into Spring” Indoor Garage Sale Youth Sports & Recreation Expo March 16, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vesper Hall Adams Pointe Conference Center March Blue Springs Art Show Easter Egg-stravaganza March 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 23, 10 to noon March 10, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rotary Park Vesper Hall BlueFebruary Springs Dog Park Fundraiser Feb. 2, 5-7 p.m. Charlotte’s Web Vesper Hall March 15-17 and 21-24 Blue Springs High School April 2013 Jackson County Family Downtown Alive! Chili Auditorium Fundraiser Week Feb. 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 21-27 Student Life Center www.jacksoncountyfamilyweek.org Helpful City Information City Telephone Directory - All (816) Area Codes Adams Pointe Conf. Center...... 228-8100 Crime Prevention...... 228-0161 Police (non-emergency)...... 228-0151 Adams Pointe Golf Club...... 220-3673 Drivers License...... 655-0430 Police Detectives...... 228-0156 Alarm Permits...... 228-0217 Economic Development...... 228-0208 Police Records...... 228-0160 Ambulance Billing...... 229-8805 Engineering...... 228-0121 Pothole Hotline...... 228-0291 Animal Control...... 228-0149 Finance Department...... 655-0320 Public Works...... 228-0195 Building Inspections...... 228-0104 Fire Depart. (non-emergency).... 229-2522 Sales Tax...... 220-4542 Building Permits...... 228-0118 GIS - Mapping Division ...... 228-0119 Snow Removal Hotline...... 228-0295 Business Licenses...... 228-0131 Human Resources...... 228-0190 Street Department...... 228-0195 City Administrator’s Office...... 228-0110 Human Resources Job Hotline... 228-0290 Swimming Pool...... 228-0188 City Clerk...... 228-0110 License Plates...... 228-0127 Tax Department...... 228-0131 Planning Department...... 228-0207 Liquor License (Individual)...... 228-0160 Vehicle Registration ...... 228-0128 City Communications...... 655-0497 Liquor License (Business)...... 228-0131 Vesper Hall...... 228-0181 Codes (Compliance)...... 220-4565 Mayor and Council...... 228-0110 Voter Registration...... 228-0110 Codes (Permits)...... 228-0118 Municipal Court Clerk...... 228-0274 Water & Sewer Billing...... 228-0135 Community Development...... 228-0207 Parks & Recreation...... 228-0137 Water/Sewer Maintenance...... 228-0195 Comm. Develop. Hotline...... 228-0223 Parks & Recreation Hotline...... 228-0116 Comm. and Youth Outreach...... 228-0178 Police Administration...... 228-0164

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 25