A city council committee set a hot button issue aside to cool for another week. The debate is over the city turning off 37 traffic lights in east-central Kansas City which by federal standards are no longer needed.
Traffic light changes stopped for one week
Some area residents did not agree with the city manager that four-way stop signs would be safer at intersections that were near schools. And a resolution to turn 23 of the 37 back on was introduced.
The budget did allow for the operation of the signals, but councilwoman Cindy Circo said the problem was the equipment was old – dating back to the 1940s.
“Parts are no longer available,” said Circo. “We may be able to salvage a few from other cities that are using these lights. And the affordability of buying brand new ones is not reality for this city at this time.”
City staff said that would cost a million dollars per intersection. Adding to the pressure on the council, the Kansas City School District wants the 23 signals turned back on. The committee was divided on the issue. They will give it more study and try to come to a decision next week. SOC
Council endorses recommendations to curb gun violence
The Kansas City, Missouri city council has tentatively endorsed the five recommendations of the city Health Commission on how to reduce gun violence.
The resolution instructs the city manager to propose ways to increase funding for anti-violence programs, KC NOVA, and firearm safety education. They also ask the manager to explore letting some ex-offenders get liquor licenses so they could be employed in the hospitality industry.
Councilman John Sharp said the council will also tell try to repeal legislation that allows concealed weapons in automobiles with no permit required.
“If you have a permitting system, then what's the point of allowing people to carry loaded concealed weapons that they can grab in a second in their passenger compartment without a permit?” asked Sharp.
Chances of getting that provision repealed are slim, considering that the Missouri legislature recently passed several gun rights bills, including loosening restrictions on carrying firearms in vehicles.