Development News for Belton, Missouri

City Council Approves Revisions to Permit, Inspection, and Fee Structures, and Establishes New No-Parking Zones

The City Council approved the final reading of Bill 2026-23, which amends articles pertaining to permits, rental registration, and inspection programs, along with Chapter 10 (Buildings and Structures) and Appendix A (Schedule of Fees and Charges) of the unified development code. The amendments focus on permitting and inspection processes and associated fees. During discussion, concerns were raised about the 90-day expiration of permit applications and the discretion of the building official in granting extensions. Staff clarified that permits are valid for 180 days, and extensions are generally granted with reasonable requests. The council also approved the final reading of Bill 2026-24, establishing certain no-parking zones by amending Appendix B, Traffic Schedules, Table Six. Council members emphasized the importance of safety as the primary purpose for such designations.

Oldtown Belton Redevelopment Plan Amended for 401-411 Main Street Improvements, Including Tax Abatement

The City Council approved the 31st amendment to the Oldtown Belton Redevelopment Plan, authorizing a $200,000 project approval for improvements, primarily exterior work like roof reconstruction, for the building at 401-411 Main Street. This project is expected to increase annual property taxes from $5,500 to $8,100 over a 12-year abatement period. Despite a short-term tax decrease for taxing entities, the long-term impact is considered positive for reinvestment in Oldtown Belton. The Oldtown Belton Redevelopment Corporation board recommended approval (5-0), and the applicant, Anna Woodward of Family Tree Furniture, requested a double reading to expedite the roof reconstruction due to recent storm damage. The council granted both first and second readings, approving the project and tax abatement.

Fall Festival Permit Approved; Amendment to Waive City Service Fees for Organizers Fails

The City Council approved a resolution for an event permit for the Fall Festival 2026, organized by Downtown Belton Main Street, Inc., to close a portion of Main Street and surrounding streets. Several council members recused themselves and abstained due to potential conflicts of interest. The festival is scheduled for September 12th, with street closures beginning Friday, September 11th, and reopening Saturday evening. Following this, the council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the city and Downtown Belton Main Street, Inc. for the festival. An amendment was proposed to have the city fully sponsor all associated city service costs (trash barrels, barricades, police support, security, medical personnel), effectively removing the charges for Downtown Belton Main Street, Inc. This amendment failed to pass with a 3-2 vote. Consequently, the resolution approving the MOU as originally presented, which included cost allocations to the organization, was approved.

Parks Board Updates: Dryen Nature Reserve Phase 1, Fieldhouse Study Approved, Water Park Open, and Upcoming Events

During the reports section, Council Member McCllum provided updates from the Parks Board. Key points included: an update on the Dryen Nature Reserve's first phase of installation, which involves concrete trail infrastructure, bridges, sewer systems, and a main drive/parking lot; approval of a feasibility study for a fieldhouse; and the official opening of the water park. McCllum also highlighted upcoming events: Carrie Nation Days (May 29-30) featuring a drone show and live music, the Mud Run (June 13th), and the Hatchet Granite Disc Golf Tournament (June 20th). Additionally, a Mermaid and Pirate Day is scheduled for June 20th at the outdoor water park. Council Member Richardson also mentioned the car show's success due to good weather and praised the cemetery's Memorial Day displays.