Minutes

The City of Belton Council convened on March 24, 2020, to address a diverse agenda encompassing critical infrastructure agreements, land use adjustments, and an urgent discussion regarding the developing COVID-19 pandemic. Key decisions included the final approval of agreements establishing the operational framework for the city's Aquatic Center and the adoption of a new waste collection agreement. The council also initiated consideration for significant new regulations and development plans impacting the community.

A central and pressing item was the discussion surrounding a potential Emergency Declaration due to COVID-19. Occurring early in the global pandemic, this agenda item highlighted the city's proactive approach to public health, with the discussion setting the stage for potential broad implications on local operations and residents' daily lives. In other significant actions, the Council gave final approval (second reading) to Ordinances No. 2020-04 and 2020-05, solidifying agreements for the Belton Aquatic Center with both the Belton Park Board and Belton Community Projects. Additionally, Resolution No. 2020-05 was approved, establishing a new waste collection agreement with Midwest Waste Services, Inc., securing this vital municipal service.

While specific vote counts were not detailed, the deliberation on a COVID-19 Emergency Declaration represented the most timely and potentially impactful discussion, anticipating significant policy shifts for the city. The Council also held public hearings and approved Special Use Permits for vehicle sales at 303 N. Scott Ave and automobile repair at 122 N. Scott Ave, facilitating local business development. Looking ahead, several ordinances were introduced on first reading and will require further consideration and a second vote at future council meetings. These include new regulations for keeping chickens (Ordinance No. 2020-06), amendments to existing zoning regulations (Ordinance No. 2020-07), and the approval of a minor plat for the Belton Towne Center (Ordinance No. 2020-08). The outcomes of the COVID-19 discussion are also expected to lead to specific actions or declarations in the immediate future.