Dear resident:

Thank you for reading April's edition of Insight. We are continually working to find new ways to improve and deliver services.

KC GreenSummit 2008 to be April 25
The City is determined to be a leader in the public realm of green infrastructure. We will hold the KC GreenSummit 2008 on April 25 at Bartle Hall, 301 W. 13th St. The summit includes professional presentations about best practices in green solutions and green infrastructure. Exhibits will feature local companies and corporations demonstrating how they implement green solutions.

By working with regional partners, the City can develop a new model for how green solutions can enhance economic opportunities for residents and businesses. Speakers at the event include Majora Carter, executive director of Sustainable South Bronx, and U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II. More

Residents approve City questions
Residents voted on three questions April 8. First, we voted to renew the 3/8 cent sales tax dedicated to bus service. Good public transportation is key to any thriving metropolitan area. Voters also approved the short-term loan establishment permit fee. Revenue from the fees will be used by the Regulated Industries Division of the Neighborhood and Community Services Department to offset the costs associated with the permit process for the short-term loan establishments.

Finally, residents approved a new ordinance prohibiting smoking in enclosed public places, including bars and restaurants and public sidewalks abutting acute care hospitals. The ordinance goes into affect 60 days after passage. More about the issues.

Customer Service Program finalist for City Livability Award
The City's Customer Service Program is a finalist for the City Livability Award, which honors city governments and mayors for developing programs that enhance the quality of life in urban areas. The winner will be announced in June at the Conference of Mayors in Miami.

Spring leaf and brush collection continues
The City's spring leaf and brush curbside collection continues, with collection scheduled according to trash day. Residents may set out up to 20 sacks or bundles of leaves and brush, excluding grass clippings. Collection for the East and Southland is set for the next two weeks. Find your spring leaf and brush collection date.

Residents also may use the City's two leaf and brush drop-off sites, 1815 N. Chouteau Trafficway and 10301 Raytown Road. The drop-off sites are open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bartle Hall ballroom expansion honored with Capstone award
The Kansas City Convention Center’s ballroom expansion recently received a 2008 Capstone award for its significant community impact and architectural design. The Capital Improvements Management Office managed the $150 million expansion project, which helped expand and modernize the existing convention center to increase its functionality and attract additional events and conventions. Other city facilities to win awards were the Sprint Center for architectural design and community impact and Kansas City International Airport rental car facility for retail. More

Kansas City celebrates Pan American Day
The International Affairs and Trade Office hosted a dedication ceremony for the Grand Boulevard of the Americas. The Grand Boulevard of the Americas is the springboard project for the City’s Pan American Initiative, which promotes the City’s position as a hub for international business, trade and tourism. Grand Boulevard of the Americas features 152 flags fastened to the City’s light poles celebrating the 35 member countries of the Organization of American states. More

As always, I appreciate your feedback. Please feel free to e-mail questions and comments to my office at Insight@kcmo.org.  

Sincerely,
Wayne A. Cauthen
City manager
City of Kansas City, Mo.