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Excelsior Springs, Mo. (Jan. 20, 2026) — Council met at the School District Board Room, 113 Line Street, a temporary location because the elevator at the Hall of Waters is being replaced. Officials said they expect the temporary location to last through the end of March, possibly longer.
Council opened with a prayer from Pastor Mike Boudreaux of Crescent Lake Christian Center, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Golf course management agreement was tabled
Council took up a proposed services agreement with Orion Management Solutions RG, Inc. for management of the Excelsior Springs Golf Course (Resolution No. 1636).
City Manager Molly McGovern explained the current agreement began Feb. 1, 2021, and is set to expire Jan. 31, 2027, so staff brought a renewal framework forward early to give employees advance notice if council decides not to continue the partnership. McGovern also summarized that Orion’s tenure has brought “significant improvements” and stability through staff transitions within Orion’s broader network.
The packet outlined proposed changes for the next contract term and fee language, including clarifying that the contingent management fee is earned when gross revenues exceed $1.3 million and increasing the monthly management fee from $4,250 to $4,500. After discussion, council voted to table the item for further review and questions, noting there is time before the current agreement expires.
Cemetery rate changes approved
Council approved Ordinance No. 26-01-05, updating the cemetery fee schedule in connection with the new columbarium at Crown Hill Cemetery.
The updated schedule sets a total of $500 for a columbarium urn niche in rows 1–2 and a total of $800 for niches in rows 3–4. Council discussed the change in the context of providing additional cremation options while keeping upkeep and maintenance funded.
Water sale agreement amendment approved
Council approved Ordinance No. 26-01-06, authorizing the mayor to execute a first amendment to the water sale/purchase agreement with the Village of Prathersville. Public Works Director Chad Birdsong told council the amendment responds to Prathersville’s request to adjust its reserve capacity after ending its previous water arrangement with Mosby.
Brush grinding and mulch haul-off contract approved
Council approved Resolution No. 1637, selecting Missouri Organic Recycling, Inc. for brush grinding and mulch haul-off services at the city yard waste drop-off site, not to exceed $15,600.
Motorola radio system service agreement approved
Council approved Resolution No. 1638, authorizing a one-year service agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for public safety communications system services, not to exceed $49,925.54.
Police Captain Robert Warner said the goal is to prevent any lapse in vendor support while the city works through dispatch console updates. Council briefly discussed the cost split between police and fire, in light of the city’s updated Public Safety Sales Tax allocation, but approved the one-year agreement.
Change order notification: Wyman cleanup
Council received a required notification (no vote) regarding a change order tied to the ongoing work at the former Wyman school building. City Manager McGovern said the additional work involved biohazard cleanup and securing the building after what appeared to be an injured animal inside. Council’s discussion also referenced an upcoming tour of the building.
December 2025 financials received for review
Finance Director Vonda Floyd presented the December financials for review. The packet listed total December appropriations and payroll of $2,263,423.13 and total revenues received of $2,872,790.23. Council members thanked staff for walking through the reports and answering questions.
Remarks
Molly McGovern shared sad news that Grace Palmer, a longtime employee who worked in the city manager’s office, had died that day, and she asked the community to keep Palmer’s family in their thoughts.
Council’s open-comment period turned into a quick snapshot of what’s happening around town and what council members want residents to know.
Councilman Gary Renne encouraged residents to take advantage of an upcoming voter registration drive in Excelsior Springs, emphasizing that people who have moved should double-check their voting information and precinct details.
Councilman John McGovern shared that he spoke with someone connected to the Zion church warming center and heard the site has been busy, expressing appreciation for those helping provide shelter during the cold.
Councilman Stephen Spear thanked the school district for allowing the council to use their facilities, and he recognized staff for the extra logistics involved in moving the setup and materials.
Mayor Mark Spohn used his remarks to recognize Molly McGovern’s upcoming retirement. He said he had responded to her resignation letter and then read his email aloud, thanking her for 27 years of service and describing her tenure as a lasting part of the city’s foundation. He also said the council plans a formal proclamation and resolution at the March 2, 2026, meeting.
Council voted to enter closed session at the end of the meeting, consistent with the posted agenda notice.
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