Study Session 6/8/26

The City of Independence, Missouri held a study session on June 8, 2026, focusing primarily on two key topics related to local economic development and historic site preservation. Council Member Perkins introduced a resolution to retain city ownership of the Big and Wagner estate and the Bell Mansion, with intentions to explore funding options including a potential general obligation bond to address deferred maintenance. The session also featured a detailed presentation by the Independence Innovation Center's leadership, outlining its history, economic impact, and challenges, particularly funding shortfalls following its transition to an independent nonprofit. The Innovation Center requested renewed city partnership and operational funding to support expansion plans aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and small business growth in the region. Discussions included the center's role in assisting startups, graduation criteria for businesses, and efforts to keep entrepreneurs and their businesses within Independence. No formal votes were recorded during this session, but the council expressed interest in continuing dialogue on funding and partnership opportunities to support both historic preservation and economic development initiatives.