Community Issue 2013 Year in Review

Winter/Spring 2014

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life MAGAZINE Community Issue 2013 Year in Review

Winter Resources

“My Blue Springs” Photo Contest winners

Permit #11 Permit

64015

Blue Springs, MO Springs, Blue

PAID Blue Springs, MO 64015 MO Springs, Blue

903 West Main Street Street Main West 903 U.S. Postage U.S.

Presorted Standard Presorted City of Blue Springs Blue of City

WWW.BLUESPRINGSGOV.COM Contents Year End Review Mayor’s Opening Letter 2 I invite all of you to join me for my State of the Development Services Survey City Address on Thursday, February 20, 2014, 11:30 3 a.m. at the Adams Pointe Conference Center. The By the Numbers ‘Community Issue - 2013 Year in Review’ of the 4 Downtown Alive! Update Blue Springs Magazine is a sneak preview of my presentation. 5 Winter Resources If you are unable to attend this year’s State of the City 6 Fiscal Fitness Address, the presentation and video will be available in 2013 Year in Review late February at www.bluespringsgov.com/stateofthecity. Parks & Recreation 7 In 2013, we have made major strides in Public Safety and Infrastructure 2013 Year in Review issues here in Blue Springs. Significant progress has been made on the 8 Community Development implementation of the dedicated Public Safety Sales Tax initiative goals, and we celebrated the successful completion of the Sni-A-Bar Wastewater 2013 Year in Review Treatment Plant and Phase I of the Woods Chapel Road reconstruction 10 Public Works project. There is still much work to be done to enhance our community, but 2013 Year in Review I look forward to the challenge. Police Department 12 Throughout this edition of the magazine, you’ll read how we seek resident 2013 Year in Review input, engage elected officials and strengthen local and regional partnerships 14 Economic Development to achieve exciting things in our near and long term future. Blue Springs I invite you to keep up with all the great news here in Blue Springs by 15 Chamber of Commerce signing up for my e-newsletter, joining us on Facebook or following us on Twitter. Central Jackson County 20 Fire Protection District Gratefully in your service, Blue Springs School District 21 Mayor Carson Ross ‘My Blue Springs’ Photo Contest Winners 23 City Officials Let’s Move! Saturdays! Carson Ross, Mayor 24 Calendar Eric Johnson, City Administrator Community Calendar Contact Information 25 Contact Numbers City of Blue Springs District 1 903 West Main Street Dale Carter (816) 809-4874 Blue Springs, MO 64015 Jeff Quibell (816) 223-2865 (816) 228-0110 District 2 www.bluespringsgov.com Kent Edmondson (816) 228-7181 Chris Lievsay (816) 674-5108 Kim Nakahodo, editor [email protected] District 3 “My Blue Springs” Susan Culpepper (816) 916-5696 Photo Contest Over All Winner, Ron Fowler (816) 228-1568 Kristi Branstetter

2 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Development Services Survey

During the summer of 2013, the City Council commissioned • Ratings of the City’s Public Works, Utility and ETC Institute to administer a survey to customers who had Engineering Staff. used the City’s development services. The purpose of the Of the customers who had worked with the City’s Public survey was to gather feedback to improve the overall quality Works, Utilities and Engineering staff, 93% or more of of development services provided by the City. the customers agreed with all of the positive statements they were asked to rate about the department’s staff. “This year’s results are amazing; you have double-digit improvements in almost every category surveyed. Blue Springs is now perceived as one of the best government organizations around for development services.” – Chris Tatham, Vice President, ETC Institute.

Major findings include: • Ratings of the Blue Springs Development Review Process Compared to other cities. All of the customers surveyed felt the City’s Development Review process was better or the same compared to Gladstone, Liberty and Raytown; 92% compared to Independence; 85% compared to Kansas City and 72% compared to Lee’s Summit. • Ratings of the City’s Code Administration Staff. Of the customers who had worked with the City’s Code • Ratings of the City’s Planning and Development Staff. Administration staff, 70% or more of the customers Of the customers who had worked with the City’s agreed with all of the positive statements they were asked Planning and Development staff, 50% or more of the to rate about the department’s staff. customers agreed with all of the positive statements they were asked to rate about the department’s staff. “I want to personally thank City staff for their hard work and determination to improve our development services. I’m proud to say we have created a culture of constantly examining our processes and improving our customer service.” – City Administrator Eric Johnson.

To see the 2013 Community Developer Survey Final Report, visit www.bluespringsgov.com.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 3 Department Spotlight: By the Numbers Public Works (from Oct. 2012 to Sept. 2013) Update

original brick Manhole30 Repairs exterior and installing new windows and doors to transform the Water Main67 Breaks Repaired building back to its historic design. Downtown America’s Community Bank Banners Restoration Project Miles of Paved252 Streets Maintained New Downtown The America’s Community Bank Alive! banners building, located at 1100 W. Main were installed Street, was originally constructed along Main around 1890 and the aluminum façade Street this fall. Feet of Water864 Mains Replaced was installed over the original brick The brightly exterior in the late 1960’s. colored banners The building restoration and renovation welcome visitors project includes the removal of the to the downtown Fleet Repairs2,461 by Fleet Maintenance aluminum façade, restoration of the corridor. A Blue Springs Downtown Alive! Presents Water &8,759 Sewer Utility Locates HOLLYWOOD air 11,008Potholes Repaired ffair AThe First Annual Piccadilly Gala Thursday, March 6, 2014 | Adams Pointe Conference Center Square1,008,396 Yards of Pavement A Hollywood Affair Piccadilly Quarter Auction Crack Sealed The Piccadilly Gala is a Ladies Night Out Piccadilly is a high-energy auction where and auction benefit for Downtown Alive!, you could win hundreds of dollars of gifts a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated for only a few quarters! Catered dinner, to the preservation and revitalization of cash bar, silent auction, live Piccadilly 1,558,840,000Gallons of Water Treated at the Downtown Blue Springs. auction and more! Sni-A-Bar Waste Water Treatment Plant Tickets are $50 | (816) 228-2300 | www.downtownbluesprings.com

4 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Snow Removal in Blue Springs

Blue Springs employs many of the third priority routes, hilly roads and best operators in the Midwest. The residential streets. Snow Removal Team consists of Phase III - Heavy Snow Public Works and Parks Department If snowfall accumulation continues employees which serve as the City’s and reaches a depth of at least four first responders for snow emergencies. inches, crews will continue plowing all The Plowing Process roadways curb to curb. Phase I - First Response When it first starts to snow, eight primary trucks with spreaders begin clearing snow and ice from heavily Snow Removal Maps traveled and hilly roadways, while also Visit www.bluespringsgov.com to view spreading deicing chemicals. snow removal route maps that indicate Phase II - More Snow, More Resources how Blue Springs’ streets are prioritized When snowfall depth on the street and cleared during the City’s snow accumulates to two inches, seven removal process. additional plows join the eight first response plows. Depending on the Help us help you! Working Around the Clock forecast and current road conditions, Please move vehicles off the street Snow removal is a dangerous, stressful, the plows may team up and tandem whenever possible. and time-consuming job. Our crews plow the primary roads before breaking Parked cars pose an obstruction to work around the clock in extreme con- off into residential streets. Once the snow removal operations during the ditions to keep motorists safe and to primary and secondary roadways storm and then leave snow packed ensure that emergency responders can are cleared, crews begin working areas after they are moved. get to those in need.

WinterSnow Removal Resources 0291 and leave the exact location of the hole, the nearest The Blue Springs Snow Removal Team maintains a 24-hour cross street, your name and phone number so we may contact state of readiness from mid-November to mid-April for you if we have difficulties locating the pothole. inclement weather. The Snow Removal Hotline number is (816) 228-0295. Power Outages Winter storms can also cause power outages in the Blue Potholes Springs community. KCP&L would like to remind During the winter, the water under the pavement freezes, customers that safety is the number one priority for our then thaws (contracting and expanding.) This freeze/thaw crews and customers. Please remember to stay away from cycle causes the pavement to crack so that it deteriorates downed trees and power lines. Always assume a downed line quickly under the weight of traffic, and streets can seem to is energized. If you are experiencing a power outage in your break out in potholes overnight. area, call 1 (888) 544-4852 or visit the KCP&L Web site at www.kcpl.com. To report a pothole, call the Pothole Hotline at (816) 228-

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 5 Blue Springs

Understanding the 2013-14Fiscal Fiscal Year Budget Fitness

Other Cash Reserves $461,825 $4,325,203 The 2013-14 budget is the Property Tax City of Blue Springs’ fiscal plan $5,471,288 for the next year. It sets the

goals and objectives the City Bond Proceeds wants to accomplish, including $18,000,000 City Sales Tax $6,831,935 capital improvement and public safety programs. The budget

projects revenues that the Interest Income $367,475 Transportation Sales Tax City anticipates collecting and $3,169,263 expenses it expects to expend Fines & Forfeits $956,305 Where the Money during the fiscal year (October Public Safety Sales Tax 1 — September 30.) Comes From $3,148, 928

The total budget for all funds Utility Franchise Fees $ $5,317,577 is 79,938,462. The graphs Utility Service Fees to the right help illustrate $16,061,663

revenues, expenditures and Taxes - Other capital improvements for the $5,392,100 fiscal year 2013-14. Licenses & Total Golf Course Fees Charges for Services Other Government Sources Permits $1,574,238 $1,489,985 $6,808,997 $561,681 $79,938,462 Capital Debt Service $10,293,271 Improvement General Government expenditures focus $6,157,336 on three priority Public Works $3,408,830 areas:

• Public Safety Building Renovations Public Safety/Community • Woods Chapel Road Youth Outreach Unit Improvements – Voter Where the $11,511,695 Capital Improvements Approved Street $31,560,759 Money Goes Project Health - Emergency Services $500,000 Parks & Recreation • Water and Sewer $2,452,909 Social Services - 50+ Program System Improvements $361,373 Building Maintenance $741,423 For more information on Golf Course Water Utility $1,334,315 the City’s budget, visit $5,688,894 Sewer Utility Total www.bluespringsgov.com. Capital Outlay Hotel/Motel $4,212,353 $1,570,305 $145,000 $79,938,462

6 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com 2013Year in Review Parks & Recreation Quality Parks & Recreation Services The mission of the Parks & Recreation Department is to create outstanding recreational, cultural and natural experiences to enrich and enhance the quality of life for our community today and for future generations.

With that in mind, a Program Assessment Committee was established and Program and Special Event Standards and Guidelines have been developed to ensure our programs are meeting those standards to ensure the highest quality programs possible for our community. The committee is made of three Park Commission Blue Springs Summer Day Camp Currently, more than 15 million dollars members and Recreation staff. June 3rd marked the beginning of of deferred maintenance is needed to the first Blue Springs Summer Day address the deteriorating conditions Camp program. The camp ran for 9 of our parks. The Department will weeks during June and July and each continue to do what it can to maintain week was theme specific with campers our parks and facilities, but without enjoying games, arts and crafts projects dedicated funding, facilities and and field trips relating to the particular equipment that become damaged, worn theme. Swimming at ‘The Blue’ was out or unsafe will be removed or closed also a camp favorite. in an effort to keep our parks as safe as possible for the community. Vesper Hall Kitchen Renovation & Re-Accreditation A complete kitchen overhaul began in The Gazebo at Rotary Park January with a new floor, ceiling tiles, The Rotary Park gazebo is one of the fresh paint and kitchen equipment most popular facilities in our Parks servicing. A new supervisor was hired system. In order to enhance visitor and the kitchen re-opened on February experience, our maintenance staff 11. Additionally, our Re-Accreditation Community Garden removed the stairs on the northeast Status request was accepted and a Extreme weather delayed the opening side of the gazebo and added over celebration of both events took place of the Community Garden but with 144 square feet of deck space on the on March 6. a $2,800 donation from the Jackson County Health Department for northwest side. The result is a better Parks Maintenance Assessment improvements to the soil, all but one stage area for our summer Music in the The Parks & Recreation Department plot was rented. Staff planted the Park concert series and better viewing spent several months evaluating vacant plot with yields being donated and photo opportunities for those our parks to determine needed to Vesper Hall Congregate Meals. participating in or attending weddings. maintenance and/or upgrades.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 7 2013Year in Review Community Development Committed to a High Level of Time Home Buyers Program, and a “Livability” major Downtown building restoration The Community Development project. Department strives to provide The First Time Home Buyers the highest-quality of current and Program assisted 13 new Blue Springs Smart Growth America long-range planning, zoning, code homeowners with closing costs. Smart Growth America conducted a enforcement and building construction This program aims to bring home services to the community. Sustainable Land Use Code Audit as ownership within reach of qualified part of the technical assistance provided low-to-moderate income first time through the EPA’s Building Blocks for home buyers looking to buy a home in Sustainable Communities program. The Blue Springs. audit involved several public meetings The Minor Home Repair Program with findings recommended in a “next provided financial assistance to 15 home steps” report provided by Smart Growth owners in Blue Springs for the minor America and Clarion Associates. exterior home repairs. The emphasis The technical assistance focused on of this program is on neighborhood three particular sustainable code conservation and helps residents bring concepts: Energy Conservation/ Community Development Block their property into compliance with the Grant Program (CDBG) Alternative Energy, Stormwater City’s Property Maintenance Code. Management and Green Infrastructure, In 2013 the City utilized funding from The City also provided funding to and Healthy Communities. the U.S. Department of Housing and Downtown Alive to support their City staff is currently in the process Urban Development’s Community efforts in revitalizing Downtown Blue Development Block Grant Program to of updating the City’s Unified Springs. The largest project that was Development Code (UDC) and will address infrastructure improvements in supported with CDBG funding was the most needed areas of Blue Springs. incorporate many aspects noted in the the historic restoration of the America’s findings from this technical assistance These funds were used for the City’s Community Bank building. Minor Home Repair Program, First program.

1. Resident Lawns Lawns should not exceed 8 inches in height. Top 10 Codes 2. Trash/Brush Piles Trash/brush piles must be removed and properly disposed of. Tips for 2014 3. Inoperable Vehicles Must be stored inside a garage or removed from the In order to keep Blue Springs a clean and safe, premises. For inoperable vehicles in the street, contact the Community Development administers several important Blue Springs Police Department at (816) 228-0150. codes and ordinances regarding the upkeep of public and private properties. You can help make Blue Springs 4. Trash Containers a quality place to live by observing the following codes Trash for pick up should be placed no further than 5 feet reminders all year long. from the home. Curbside pick up is prohibited.

8 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Comprehensive Plan

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Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 9 2013Year in Review Public Works Excellence in Infrastructure along Jefferson Street, to connect with the existing transmission line The Public Works Department Bi tmap I mage along Adams Dairy Parkway. provides a quality environment for Blue Springs and ensures that “This project helps us control our roadways and infrastructure our costs and puts us in a better are safe, clean, and attractive. position as our community The department is committed to continues to grow,” said Chris providing an invaluable service Sandie, Director of Public Works. to residents by encouraging and Vesper Street Sidewalk educating its employees with the knowledge, skills, and equipment The federally-funded Community necessary for optimal performance. Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides communities with financial 2008-13 Street Overlay resources to address a wide range ProgramLegen dMap of unique community development 2013 Overlay 13.5 miles 2012 Overlay 18 miles needs. One of this year’s CDBG 2011 Overlay 19 miles 2010 Overlay 18 miles

projects was the installation of a 2009 Overlay 24 miles sidewalk along the south side of 2009 Stimulus 4 miles 2008 Overlay 25 miles Vesper Street from NW 10th Street

to Highway 7. This new sidewalk Revision 10/16/13 provides a pedestrian path along 2008 - 2013 Overlay Project Street Maintenance and Improvements Vesper and visually enhances the 0 850 1,700 3,400 Feet · downtown corridor. Street maintenance is an area where the City Council has invested significant Adams Dairy Parkway and NE resources. Almost 85 percent of our funds Jefferson Street Water Main for Capital Improvement go towards Extension this maintenance program - $2.3 million Public Works successfully dollars each year. Over the past six years, completed an expansion project 117.5 miles of streets have been resurfaced that increases connectivity between inconjuction with repair of deficient curbs. the City’s water system and Tri- County Water Authority’s water distribution system. This new water transmission line located along NE Jefferson increases our water supply lines from Tri-County Water Authority and diversifies the City’s water supply options. The project included a 24-inch This year, an added aspect was the repair water transmission line, 4,000 feet of sidewalks to eliminate trip hazards and in length from NE 20th Street installation of ADA compliant ramps along the resurfaced routes.

10 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Woods Chapel Road

new rockUpdate walls within the I-70 right-of-way; landscaping; and two new traffic signals at Duncan Road, and also at Briarwood/Castle Drives; and the Diverging Diamond Interchange. This project dramatically streamlined rush hour congestion, better serves our existing businesses and creates a beautiful western gateway into Blue Springs.

Woods Chapel Road, Phase 2 (Briarwood/Castle Drives to Walnut Street) Utility relocations are underway for Woods Chapel Road from Phase I south to Walnut Street. Construction is expected throughout 2014 with substantial completion in the spring of 2015.

Woods Chapel Road, Phase 1 (Duncan Road to Briarwood/Castle Drives) City staff secured almost three million dollars in grant The Woods Chapel Road corridor is one of the most funds toward the construction of Phase II. Realignment anticipated projects in the street improvement bond. Phase and widening of the roadway is proposed, as well as 1 combined three separate phases of the original plan, and construction of a roundabout at the Walnut Street integrated a cutting-edge Diverging Diamond Interchange intersection, and an improved railroad crossing. We design, one of the first to be constructed in the United appreciate your continued patience as we work to make States! these infrastructure improvements. M ill

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Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 11 2013Year in Review Police Department Continuing Public Safety Excellence Outreach Unit partnered with the Blue The Blue Springs Police Department Springs Fitness Center to offer a new is committed to meeting the ever- Girls on Fire Summer Camp program changing needs of our community for girls ages 12-17 in our community. and to maintaining agency excellence in both proactive and responsive law The Girls on Fire Summer Camp enforcement needs. With 138 full- addresses the unique set of challenges time employees consisting of 99 sworn facing young girls by encouraging police officers and 38 full-time and 2 healthy relationships, discipline, part-time civilians; the Department’s self-esteem and health & wellness. mission is to provide the highest Through a series of interactive volunteer hours valued at $162,579.55 quality police services to the Blue presentations and physical fitness in labor! If you are interested in Springs community by promoting a activities, girls were introduced to participating in any of these programs, safe environment through police and concepts and healthy practices that call Sgt. Allen Kintz at (816) 228-0178. resident partnerships. enhance their self esteem. Civic Engagement The Shop With A Blue Springs The Blue Springs Citizen’s Police Cop program is designed to provide Academy has now graduated 16 classes a happier holiday season to at-risk of more than 290 citizens who are now children in Blue Springs by providing better informed about Blue Springs law a way for these kids to interact with enforcement programs and practices. police officers in a positive setting.

As a result of the Police Academy, our Thank you again to all the event Girls on Fire Summer Camp Volunteers in Police Services program sponsors and volunteers that help This summer, the Blue Springs Police or VIPS continues to be a success make this event possible. If you are Department’s Community & Youth with 44 active members. In 2013, interested in getting involved, call these members have logged over 7,300 Officer Brotherton at (816) 935-6770. View from 11th & Smith St.

Public Safety Sales Tax

now on the final phase — the expansion in early Update2014 for the duration of the and renovation of the Howard L. Brown construction schedule. Public Safety Building. Currently in The Department is very appreciative of the design phase, the new project is the strong support received from the expected to break ground in the Spring community to keep Blue Springs safe! of 2014 with completion in 2015. The Public Safety Sales Tax Initiative passed in April, 2011 has provided The project Design Team will be To learn more about the Public needed resources for the Blue Springs presenting concept and schematic Safety Citizen Advisory Board and Police Department. designs to the City Council in view Public Safety Sales Tax reports, January 2014. The department will be With the implementation of two phases visit www.bluespringsgov.com/ transitioning to temporary office spaces of the initiative complete, the focus is publicsafetyboard.

12 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Reduce your Risk Residential Burglaries Reduce Your Burglary Risk • Harden targets Install sturdy doors with dead bolts, window locks rather than latches and sliding glass door channel locks or slide bolts. Have you ever stepped back and looked may indicate that no one is home at your residence from the perspective or that the owner may be out of • Increase occupancy indicators of a would-be criminal? Where do you town. Leave interior and exterior lights on think your vulnerabilities are? with timers or sensors, close curtains • Houses without dogs. and park cars in the driveway. A burglary is often a crime of Visibility opportunity. Offenders generally look • Improve visibility for an easy target, so making their job • Houses with cover. Obscured Trim trees and shrubs and modify more difficult, or more risky, reduces views of doors and windows, fencing so they do not block the the appeal to most criminals. Burglars including trees and dense shrubs; view of the house from neighbors or will most often try for unlocked walls and fences; and architectural passersby. windows and doors as a means of entry. features such as latticed porches. • Increase exterior lighting If you have windows and doors that • Houses that are secluded. Homes Install exterior lights and well placed, create a challenge to criminals, they that are isolated from view, on large motion-activated perimeter lighting. may move on to something easier. lots or next to nonresidential land. • Implement a Neighborhood Watch Burglars generally pick targets based on • Houses with poor lighting. Poor program a number of key factors: lighting, especially around entry • Install an alarm system or closed- points, reduces a burglar’s visibility Location & Familiarity circuit television to neighbors. • Some burglars target homes close to where they live or revisit Vulnerability homes that have been previously • Houses with weakened entry For more Crime Prevention burglarized. points. Older houses may have information, contact Sgt. Allen • Burglars may target multiple easily compromised locks or Kintz at (816) 228-0178 or homes in a specific geographic worn and decaying window and area – on a block or in a specific door frames, while newer houses [email protected]. neighborhood. may be built with cheap • Houses near major thoroughfares materials. or on the outskirts of a neighborhood. • Houses whose residents Occupancy are careless • The majority of home burglaries about security. occur during the day when most Burglarized people are away at work or school. houses often • Signs of vacancy such as open have unlocked garage doors, accumulated mail or or open newspapers and overgrown lawns windows or doors.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 13 2013Year in Review Economic Development Economic Development: Together We’re Better Blue Springs Economic Development Corporation (EDC) exists to promote business development and investment in the City of Blue Springs, which in turn leads to job creation. The EDC’s success and programs depend upon its 65 plus Investing Partners, which include the City of Blue Springs, Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, Blue Springs School District, Central Jackson County Fire Protection District and numerous businesses as investing partners.

The 2013 PitchON event featured 17 local retailers making formal pitches to sponsors, who then voted by buying $6,000 of product with their sponsorship funds. Blue Springs placed first and second during the competition. Congratulations to The Sweet Tooth, owners Trevor and Amy Goodwin, and Genevieve’s Home & Homemade, owner Pam Wheeler.

Development and Redevelopment living units and over 30 for memory The business corridor of Highway care, and phase II will bring over 45 40 and Highway 7 has undergone a assisted living units. vibrant redevelopment process including Downtown Revitalization the expansion of Hy-Vee to their Grow Blue Springs Downtown Blue Springs continues to 88,000 square foot store, a new Hy- see a steady level of growth and new The Grow Blue Springs program Vee Convenience Store, an expanded investment over the past year, including with its online platform (www. Big Lots and the addition of a Planet openings of Brewer’s Bar & Grill and growbluesprings.com) continues to Fitness. Shootersmart. Another new tenant build a strong network of startups, North Highway 7 celebrated the coming downtown is Pizza Shoppe entrepreneurs and early stage growth redevelopment of a vacant store front to formerly located on N Highway 7. businesses including small retailers. a new Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market, Grow Blue Springs operates with and the North Price Chopper store will a volunteer board of business and be expanding in 2014. civic leaders who are themselves Brien Starner entrepreneurs or once had a small Housing Development President startup business. Thanks to their O’Reilly Development is moving Sher Lopez leadership, the program hosted a forward with their plans for a mixed Business & Investor Relations StartFEST event in May, and a regional use senior residential center on the west Teresa Evans retail PitchON event in November in side of Adams Dairy Parkway just south Business Outreach collaboration with Independence, Lee’s of RD Mize Road. The project will be Summit, Oak Grove and Grain Valley. developed in two phases with the first (816) 228-0208 phase including over 70 independent www.bluespringsedc.com

14 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce Welcome to the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce! It is an honor to serve you as Chairman of the Board for 2014. The mission of our chamber is to promote, develop and facilitate a strong economic environment in which the business community can grow Rachel Hummel and prosper. I have been a Pinnacle Construction Group member of this great chamber compassionate people who have our citizens’ best Chairperson of the Board for the last seven years, and I interests in mind. The Blue Springs Police Department am proud to say that we live and Central Jackson County Fire Protection District that mission on a regular basis - in every committee are both top-notch organizations that keep our citizens meeting, every event we promote and with every safe and secure. decision that is made. As a chamber, we’re always striving to meet the My family and I are proud to call Blue Springs our continuously changing needs of our members while home. Our children attend classes in the Blue Springs being an effective, influential community partner. As School District, a district that is nationally recognized a proactive business organization, the Blue Springs for academic performance and extracurricular Chamber of Commerce will use its strengths and achievements by students. In addition, the city diverse resources to ensure our city remains a dynamic government is led by some of the most caring and and vital economic center.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 15 Chamber for Lil’ Blue is fond of saying, “Buy Blue Springs, Because Next Door Means More.” At the Blue Springs Good Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to introduce a NEW program All locally based 501(c)3 charities can to promote giving locally, called have a presence on the Chamber for Chamber for Good. The program Good website regardless of Chamber goal is to increase the visibility of all membership. Chamber for Good is a local charities and to create a dynamic clearinghouse for all climate of local giving – to create a true To add your charity to the service, LOCAL philanthropic sense of community. visit the Chamber’s website (www. bluespringschamber.com) and click on activity. To use the service, visit the Chamber’s the Give Local, Chamber for Good website (www.bluespringschamber. banner. Click on the “Add My Charity” This web-based tool allows com) and click on the Give at the top of the page. Follow the users to view local charity Local, Chamber for Good banner. directions and submit your charity for Scroll to the bottom of the page and consideration. Once approved, you will needs in three areas: enter your email address. You will be contacted to set up your profile. You • financial donations receive a single weekly automated email will then be able to list your charity’s listing the item and volunteer needs of needs. • volunteer opportunities local charities. • item donations www.ChamberForGood.com/bluesprings Blue Springs Fall Fun Festival fair, geared toward families, featuring a Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6, carnival midway, concerts, community a not-for-profit business organization. performers, and more than 280 By doing non-dues fundraisers like the merchants that are a mix of market and festival, we are able to keep members’ commercial vendors, arts and crafts dues lower without impacting services. vendors, game vendors and plenty of Hundreds of people volunteer not September 12-14, 2014 will tasty, traditional and not so traditional only for the chamber, but for the many be the 45th annual Blue festival food vendors. It’s a great time community organizations that have Springs Fall Fun Festival in to shop the downtown Main Street booths and consider this one of their merchants. The festival is also host to major fundraisers for the year. downtown Blue Springs! one of the largest parades in Eastern Jackson County. For more information regarding the The festival is a large, regional, festival, purchasing booth spaces community celebration that attracts Not only is the Fall Fun Festival a great for next year or entering the parade, more than 130,000 attendees each year community event, but it is the largest contact the Blue Springs Chamber of to downtown Blue Springs. non-dues fundraiser for the Blue Commerce at (816) 229-8558 or visit The festival is a free admission street Springs Chamber of Commerce. The www.BlueSpringsFallFestival.com.

16 Winter/Spring 2014 • 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 year.

Outstanding Citizen – Connector of the Year – Betty Meyer Ron Durant, e-Nertia Betty began her teaching career in Blue Marketing Springs in 1960 at Hansel Lowe. She The Blue Springs Chamber of opened Meyer Music with her husband, Commerce Connector’s committee Ted, in 1966. She has been president of acts as the primary liaison to the Women’s Civic Club and an active membership in the areas of member of the Blue Springs Chamber member retention, recruitment for 46 years. She has received an Award and communication. This award of Distinction from the Mid-Continent recognizes the Connector that best Council of Girl Scouts for 40 years of free exemplifies the spirit of the Blue summer piano lessons for metro area girl scouts. She has been Springs Chamber of Commerce. a member of St. Mary’s Medical Center Auxiliary and a major The 2012 Connector of the Year was Ron Durant, with e-Nertia contributor in the fund-raising for St. Mary’s for many years. Marketing.

She was the first female ever to be elected to the Board of Ron has recruited several new members to the Chamber. He Directors of the National Association of Music Merchants. She attends luncheons, ribbon cuttings and all Chamber events possible is a member of the Women Endowing Education of the Blue and represents the commitment, initiative, drive and perseverance Springs Education Foundation and received the Corporate Citizen that is the epitome of what being a Connector really is all about. of the Year Award from the Truman Heartland Community Ron showed great leadership this year in establishing two separate Foundation with her husband Ted. Betty has also donated her Connector groups each with an individual focus. time and talents to St. John LaLande Catholic Church, Blue Springs Rotary, Community Services League, Rainbow Center and Innovation Dental for Kids. Grant Award – Blue Springs Lunar Bowl The Innovation Business Award is a business award designed by the Outstanding Business of the Year – Blue Springs Office Products Alliance Chamber of Commerce to meet the needs of area business. The Chamber wanted to help businesses take innovative ideas to the Mark Whitlow started K&M Office Products next level by offering financial help for those ideas. We know 20 years ago and established an expanding, when businesses are successful the entire community is stronger. reliable business with strong community Innovative ideas emerge from the public, private, and even non- ties. In 2012, he expanded his operations by profit sectors, and we know they exist in Blue Springs! acquiring and merging several office product businesses together to become Office Products Alliance. Office Products Alliance takes The goal of this award is to shine a bright light on the creative pride in great service, great quality and great prices. spirit of Blue Springs and Jackson County by offering a financial award to the most significantly innovative idea for a new product, They have added 11 new jobs in the past 2 years and initiated a system and/or service. There is nothing quite like the return that a policy of free delivery with no minimums. They also have a ‘no successful new product, system or service can bring to the bottom questions asked’ return policy for customers. They are dedicated line of a business or organization. Innovations were to uniquely fill to the community and Mark has served on the Chamber’s Board unmet needs, create attention from competitors, be different and of Directors, as a part of the Buy Blue Springs initiative and as better than existing products, exceed market expectations, achieve a Board member for the Blue Springs Education Foundation, to financial success, and improve business systems. name a few. They currently provide office space for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City. Special thanks to Gary Showalter for photos.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 17 TheLil’ BlueAdventures from BuyBlueSprings.com of The Buy Blue Springs program administered by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce. This program includes education and outreach about why it is important So Why Buy 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 Mega • Increases Local Jobs and Mom Buy Blue Springs Promotions Contest Wages In 2013, Buy Blue Springs ran several different Over $250 in • Supports gift cards and more! promotions; the goal was simple — to spread Entrepreneurship the buy local message and encourage people to Enter to Win! Visit www.buybluesprings.com • Creates Competition visit BuyBlueSprings.com. Two of the most and enter your email address to win! Contest winner announced on May 10, 2013. • Encourages Product popular were the Mega Mom’s and Winter WOW contests. Local businesses donated items Program sponsored by Diversity to create a gift basket for each event. • Rewards Local Decision Making Be sure to watch BuyBlueSprings.com • Builds Community Well- for your chance to win in 2014! 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, Web Available to iPhone, iPod, sites, images, and even videos to help consumers make Android and Blackberry shopping decisions. users for FREE!

18 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com What is the

The mission of the Chamber is to promote, develop and facilitate a positive business environment in which the business community can grow and prosper. Any business or individual interested in the business climate of Blue Springs is invited to consider membership.? For more information, contact the Chamber office at (816) 229-8558.

(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 30 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 Web site 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 Heavy Rescue Fire Fighting Honor Guard

Fire Prevention Fire and EMS Training Haz Mat EMS

EMS CJCFPD Program In August, 2013, the citizens of Accreditation the Central Jackson County Fire In August, 2013, CJC received CJC was initially accredited in 2008 Protection District (CJC) passed accreditation for the second and is required to submit progress a $.15 levy for emergency medical time. In May, evaluators from the reports annually. The accreditation service (EMS). This allowed CJC to Commission on Fire Accreditation process is repeated every 5 years assume the State of Missouri EMS International (CFAI) conducted to evaluate whether or not the license from the City of Blue Springs. a rigorous site visit and analyzed department has remained committed While ownership of the license procedures, policies, facilities, and to constant improvement. CJC allows CJC to have more flexibility in equipment against a set of detailed has made the commitment to its service delivery, our protected citizens, criteria in order to determine whether residents and businesses that we will visitors, and businesses will never or not CJC can be considered a always strive to provide the absolute notice any difference. The patient care “credible” fire department. In June, best service and programming and customer service they expect will Chief Steve Westermann and possible through that improvement always be at the absolute highest level members of the accreditation team and the accreditation process possible. answered additional questions for a confirms that commitment. Of the board of CFAI commissioners. After approximate 33,000 fire departments CJC would like to express its deep that session, the commissioners voted across the country, only 187 are appreciation and gratitude for the and presented CJC with its second accredited. There are 3 in the state of support our communities have always accreditation. Missouri and 4 in the Kansas City given and sincere thanks for allowing Metro Area. us to protect you and your families.

20 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com New Construction Provides Safety, Upgrades BLUE SPRINGS SCHOOL DISTRICT The 2013-2014 school year brings many changes for the District thanks to safety improvements and construction projects made possible by the support of our community and the passing of a no tax increase Bond issue last April. Improvements include new, safer entrances for several schools, improved playground services, communication improvements and upgraded media centers and classrooms. The facilities master plan had included these proposed projects for more than five years. The biggest changes can be seen at the four middle schools and freshman center with the redesign of entrances and office spaces. Now upon entering any school in the district, a visitor is buzzed in and enters into the office before gaining access to student areas. The construction accounted for 62 work days, 212 local jobs, impacted 10,081 students and 968 teachers and resulted in 55,137 square feet of renovations and 48,874 square feet of new spaces. None of this would have been possible without the gracious and continuing support of our community and patrons. Thirteen FEMA Safe Room grants were also awarded to James Walker Elementary and James Lewis Elementary, which will allow for multipurpose rooms to be built at Sunny Pointe Elementary and Years of John Nowlin Elementary. The FEMA Safe Room Grant provides funds to construct a tornado safe room/multipurpose room. The spaces will be gymnasium/multipurpose rooms during the Accreditation regular school day and open to the public should severe weather arise during non-school hours. The rooms will have a reserve power supply, conditioned air and reinforced walls that are rated for with EF5 tornadoes. We believe these shelters will be a benefit to our schools and to our community. Distinction The Blue Springs School District About the District received the highest The Blue Springs School District covers more than 58 score of any Missouri square miles and includes students from the communities districts in the Kansas of Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Independence, Lake City metro area on the Tapawingo and Lee’s Summit. Enrollment in the district Annual Performance for the 2013-14 school year currently stands at 14,524 Report from The students. Missouri Department Our district employs a highly qualified, diverse staff of of Elementary and 1,998 employees. There are 1,027 certified staff (more Secondary Education. than 85% hold a master’s degree or above) and 971 support staff. Veteran staff members bring years of Districts earn points valuable experience to the classroom and new teachers bring fresh ideas and new practices to from MAP scores, enrich the total learning environment. progress in those subjects, attendance, The Blue Springs School District has a rich tradition of academic excellence. Today this tradition college preparedness, continues with major advancements in our curriculum and also our efforts through technology and graduation rates. to place materials in student hands wherever they might be. The curriculum is aligned to both state and national standards and is reviewed annually. Technology allows the district to offer the The Blue Springs greatest opportunities for student learning through a multi-dimensional approach. School District has earned Accreditation The District has received Accreditation with Distinction from the Missouri Department of with Distinction the Elementary and Secondary Education for 13 consecutive years. Our district continually exceeds past 13 years. state and national standards for educational excellence.

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 21 Blue South Has Record Springs Seven National Board of Merit Scholarship Education Finalists Blue Springs South High School celebrated a school-record seven National Merit Scholarship semifinalists this fall. Honored were Bailey Barnett, Trevor Bishop, Miranda Cooper, Connor Honored Dillon, Ross Dryer, Abigail Kucera and Brendan Smith. The Blue Springs R-IV These students will now compete for 8,000 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $35 Board of Education million. Semifinalists are chosen from about 1.5 million juniors who took the 2012 Preliminary was recently honored SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The highest scoring entrants in each state were at the Missouri School then chosen semifinalists. Boards’ Association’s Annual Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks. The Board was selected Missouri’s Programs Earn Grants Outstanding Board of Education for 2013 in Battle of the Brains in the area of Physical Members of the Blue Springs High School Project Lead the and Environmental Way Program and Cordill-Mason Elementary STRETCH Resources. This is the classes earned grants in the Battle of the Brains, sponsored first year Outstanding by Burns and McDonnell. Boards of Education The STRETCH program, “Every Last Drop,” placed second awards were aligned to overall in the Elementary category, earning a $5,000 grant to six specific categories use towards STEM Education. of the Missouri Public The PLTW program, “A Journey Inside the Human Body,” Education Vision was an honorable mention selection in the Secondary Project. category, earning $2,500. Winners in their respective category were selected by a committee made up of school Wildcats Take board members from districts throughout the Second Straight state. “These boards of education exemplify State Football Title the characteristics of effective leadership The Blue Springs Wildcats football team teams,” said MSBA captured its second straight Missouri Executive Director Class 6 title this weekend with a 35-14 Dr. Carter Ward. “The Show-Me Bowl win over Columbia board members in each Rock Bridge. The Cats capped a perfect of these districts are 14-0 season in earning the fifth state to be congratulated football championship in school history and fourth under coach Kelly Donohoe. for their dedication to The Cats overcame an injury to leading rusher Dalvin Warmack with quarterback Ian Brown the students in their hitting 11 of 18 passes for 165 yards and two scores. Running back Cobi Bissel also scored two district.” touchdowns. The vaunted Wildcat defense limited Rock Bridge to 41 yards rushing on 35 carries and recorded six sacks.

22 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com ‘My Blue Springs’

We are proud to announcePhoto the winners of the second annual ‘My BlueContest 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 or our Facebook page at facebook.com/bluespringsgov.

Kristi Branstetter, Over All Winner Mackenzie Walls, Youth Category

Diana Hughes, Senior Chris Mancini, Adult Category Category

Informing Residents, Embracing Community, Improving the Quality of Life 23 SATURDAYS 2014 SPRING SCHEDULE ALL EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO ALL More events online! www.LetsMoveBlueSprings.org

Jan. 4 Dynamic Dance March 1 Independence Events Center 11 a.m. to 1901 SW Highway 40 noon to 19100 E. Valley View Parkway noon Zumba 2 p.m. Ice skating, beginner instruction available

Jan. 4 Rink Ratz (Formerly Watson Rolladium) March 1 Metro East Tennis Center 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive 2:30-3:30 p.m. 3109 Vesper Open roller skating Tennis Activities March 8 TaJazz School of Dance Jan. 11 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue 10-11 a.m. 1100 NW Knox 1-3 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive Ages 3-5, girls and boys Open swim March 8 Rink Ratz (Formerly Watson Rolladium) Jan. 18 Gage Center 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive 10:30 a.m. to 1101 NW Jefferson Open roller skating noon Bump City March 15 Gage Center Jan. 18 Blue Springs Family YMCA 10:30 a.m. to 1101 NW Jefferson noon to 1300 Adams Dairy Parkway noon Bump City 3 p.m. Open Swim, bring adult ID March 15 Action Martial Arts Jan. 25 TaJazz School of Dance 1-2:30 p.m. 2416 S. Highway 7 10-11 a.m. 1100 NW Knox Kickboxing and cross training, ages 7-13, Ages 3-5, girls and boys capacity 25, register at (816) 224-4105 March 22 Club 7 Fitness Jan. 25 Action Martial Arts 9-11 a.m. 1241 SW Highway 7 1-2:30 p.m. 2416 S. Highway 7 Kids Fit Boot Camp, fitness activities, Kickboxing and cross training, ages 7-13, open gym for adults capacity 25, register at (816) 224-4105 March 29 Title Boxing Feb. 1 Club 7 Fitness 10-11 a.m. 1821 SW Highway 7 9-11 a.m. 1241 SW Highway 7 Ages 8+, signed waiver required Kids Fit Boot Camp, fitness activities, open gym for adults April 5 Adams Pointe Golf Course 2-4 p.m. 1400 NE Coronado Drive Feb. 8 Dynamic Dance Free range balls, beginner instruction 11 a.m. to 1901 SW Highway 40 April 12 Centennial Pool-Plex, The Blue noon Hip Hop 1-3 p.m. 2401 Ashton Drive Feb. 15 Blue Springs Family YMCA Open Swim noon to 1300 Adams Dairy Parkway April 19 Rink Ratz (Formerly Watson Rolladium) 3 p.m. Open Swim, bring adult ID 4:30-6:30 p.m. 513 SW Keystone Drive Open roller skating Feb. 22 Title Boxing 10-11 a.m. 1821 SW Highway 7 April 26 Gage Center Ages 8+, signed waiver required 10:30 a.m. to 1101 NW Jefferson noon Bump City Feb. 22 Gage Center 10:30 a.m. to 1101 NW Jefferson April 26 Action Martial Arts noon Bump City 1-2:30 p.m. 2416 S. Highway 7 Kickboxing and cross training, ages 7-13, capacity 25, register at (816) 224-4105

24 Winter/Spring 2014 • www.bluespringsgov.com Community Calendar January March Christmas Tree Recycling A Hollywood Affair - December 26 through January 19 Annual Piccadilly Gala Pink Hill Park Presented by Downtown Youth Sports & Recreation Expo Alive! Jan. 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 6, 6:30 p.m. Adams Pointe Conference Center Adams Pointe Conference Center The Jungle Book March 6-9 and 14-16 BlueFebruary Springs Dog Park Fundraiser Blue Springs High School Jan. 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Auditorium Vesper Hall Blue Springs Art League Show April “$ale-ing Into Spring” March 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mother/Son Valentine Dance Indoor Garage Sale March 9, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 7, 6-9 p.m. April 5, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vesper Hall Vesper Hall Vesper Hall Daddy/Daughter Valentine Dance March with the Mayor Easter Egg-stravaganza Feb. 8, 6-9 p.m. March 28, noon April 19, 10 to noon Vesper Hall Downtown Blue Springs Rotary Park 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