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Four individuals were arrested the evening of July 4th in the 400 block of Woodbury. Officers responded to complaints of fireworks being discharged after the 11:00pm cutoff in the area of Woodbury. Officers had already advised residents in the 400 block of Woodbury to stop, but a subsequent violation was observed.
Reached for comment, the Grain Valley Police Department (GVPD) reported that when officers contacted the individuals involved, they became argumentative and disorderly. During the attempted arrest, GVPD stated officers were met with resistance and interference from family members and neighbors. A call for assistance was made, and officers from multiple agencies—including the Jackson County Sheriff's Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Buckner, Oak Grove, and Blue Springs Police Departments—responded. Social media posts by one individual claiming to be one of the individuals arrested indicated she was tased as officers attempted to make the arrest. GVPD stated that force was used to safely effect arrests on three individuals who were actively resisting and intoxicated. A fourth individual was taken into custody by JCSO after attempting to assault a deputy. Four adults were arrested with at least nine city ordinance violations issued, including charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.
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by Cole Arndorfer, Grain Valley News The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met on Monday, June 9 for its first meeting of the month. This meeting consisted of an oath of office for new police officer, Timothy Maybell, a promotion recognition for Sergeant Breedlove, one item of previous business, one item of new business, seven resolutions, and three ordinances. Following the opening of the meeting, the Board witnessed new officer Timothy Maybell take his oath of office. Sergeant Breedlove was then recognized by Police Chief Ed Turner and the Board on his recent promotion. Under previous business, the Board approved a new liquor license for JC Arandas as well as the renewal of liquor licenses for 18 businesses within the city. The Board then moved into resolutions. The first resolution the board approved allows the city to purchase a new 2025 Ford F-350 for the Public Works department. The next resolution approved by the Board allows the city to make a payment to Vance Brothers Inc. for surface treatment and road markings on Argo Road. Next, the Board approved a resolution authorizing the city to execute an agreement and change order number 1 with Advanced Asphalt Paving & Concrete LLC to provide edge mill and asphalt overlay to streets identified within the CIP plans. The fourth resolution approved by the Board authorizes the city to execute an agreement with JM Fahey Construction Company for the Front Street roadway storm and water improvements. The Board then approved the next resolution to enter into an agreement with Vance Brothers Inc. for micro seal paving. The next resolution the Board approved adopts the new multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan. The last resolution approved by the Board authorizes the city to purchase ballistic shields from Baysingers Uniforms to outfit patrol officers. Moving on to resolutions, the Board approved the first and second readings of a resolution to terminate the designation of the Mall at Sni-A-Bar Redevelopment Project Area as a redevelopment projects. This dissolves the special allocation fund for the area and closes out the tax incremental financing plan. The Board then approved the first reading of a resolution that would allow the city to enter into a Transportation Alternative Program funding agreement for the Sni-A-Bar Boulevard Trail. This ordinance will be brought back for its’ second read at the next meeting. Next, the Board approved the first reading of the final ordinance of the meeting, this ordinance would allow the city to enter into a Surface Transportation Block Grant for the Eagles Parkway Road improvement. This ordinance will be brought back for a second read at the next meeting. During his Mayor report, Mayor Mike Todd noted that a few members of the board would not be in attendance for the June 23rd meeting, which was subsequently canceled. The meeting was then adjourned. The next Board of Aldermen meeting will take place at City Hall on July 14 at 6:30pm.  Free Worlds of Fun ticket for Blood Drive donors at Grain Valley Community Center on June 16th6/12/2025
The American Red Cross will host a Blood Drive at the Grain Valley Community Center on June 16, 2025 from 2:00pm - 6:00pm. Donors will receive a ticket to Worlds of Fun for their participation while supplies last. CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment.   On Saturday, May 31, the City of Grain Valley will host its annual City Wide Clean Up Event from 8:00am - 2:00pm. The collection site will be located at the Public Works Facility on James Rollo Drive. Grain Valley residents may drop off: - Mattresses - Old/unwanted furniture - Metal - Lawn Mowers (all fluids must be drained) - Home decor - Mirrors - TVs and other electronics - Scrap wood & similar items All loose items MUST be bagged up. No hazardous waste items accepted at this event! Participants must reside within city limits. The City is also accepting reservations for curbside pick-up for seniors (65+) as part of the upcoming City Wide Clean-Up. Pick-ups will take place on Thursday, May 29, and Friday, May 30, and are limited to one truckload per household. To qualify, residents must live within city limits and be on the senior billing plan with the Utility Billing Division. Requests must be submitted by Friday, May 23, to receive this free service. Contact Public Works to be added to the pickup list by calling (816) 847-0091.  by Cole Arndorfer, Grain Valley News The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met on Monday, May 12 for their only meeting of the month. The meeting consisted of one item of previous business, two items of new business, one presentation, two resolutions, and two ordinances. After opening the meeting and hearing from two citizens regarding the ordinance limiting parking in rear yards, the board began in previous business, approving a new liquor license for Iron Kettle Taphouse. The board then moved on to new business, beginning with appointing Alderman Ryan Skinner as Mayor Pro-Tem, and assigning board liaison positions. Then, the board discussed an application for a wholesale liquor license for JC Arandas, which will be voted on at the next meeting. Cory Unrein, Director of the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce, delivered a presentation of the chamber’s highlights from the past year. Unrein outlined the programs and services provided by the chamber to the business community and reported a 28 percent increase in new membership over the past 12 months. Following the presentation, the board moved on to resolutions. The first resolution the board approved reappoints Norm Combs, Shawn Brady, and Mike McCurdy to the Parks and Recreation Board for three-year terms. For the second resolution, the board approved the appointment of Darin Chance and Tyler Wells to fill unexpired terms on the Parks and Recreation Board. Next, the board took action on the second reading of two ordinances. The first ordinance passed by the board approves a conditional use permit for a vehicle tow yard. The second ordinance read by the board would amend section 400.290 of city code to limit parking in the rear yard. Before voting on the motion, a motion was made to adjourn into executive session to discuss legal issues regarding the ordinance. The board adjourned into executive session and came back ten minutes later and the ordinance was passed 4-2 with Aldermen Bray and Knox voting no. Following this, meeting was then adjourned. The next Board of Aldermen meeting will take place on Monday, June 9 at 6:30 pm inside City Hall.  The City of Grain Valley plans to begin a major infrastructure investment with the Front Street Project, scheduled to start on May 19, 2025, weather permitting. The City said in a release that the project, stretching from Gregg Street to Kirby Street, represents a key component of the City’s Capital Improvement Plan and is designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and stormwater management in the area. Planned upgrades include:
Residents along Front Street have been notified of upcoming construction, and contractors will provide major updates via doorhangers as the project progresses. While currently a residential corridor, this investment supports the City’s vision of transforming Front Street into a more connected route, enhancing access and laying the groundwork for future growth.  by Cole Arndorfer, Grain Valley News The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met on Monday, April 28 for its second April meeting. Following the opening of the meeting, the board moved straight into ordinances with the approval of the second reading of an ordinance that approves a conditional use permit for a vehicle tow yard. The next ordinance the board approved was the first and second reading of an ordinance that acknowledges and certifies the results of the general election held on April 8, 2025. After certifying the election results, Mayor Mike Todd issued proclamations recognizing the service of Aldermen Tom Cleaver and Alderman Darren Mills. Newly elected Aldermen James Myers, Lisa Limberg, and Brian Bray then recited their oath of office. Following the oath of office, the board moved into new business with the first presentation of a liquor license for Iron Kettle Taphouse. The first item under the public hearing section pertained to the request for a conditional use permit for a vehicle tow yard by Auto Tow & Recovery. After no public comments, the public hearing was closed. The second item pertained to city code chapter 400 – zoning regulation and amendment section 400.290, which regulates parking in rear yard. After hearing two citizens speak against the proposed ordinance, the public hearing was closed. The board then moved into resolutions where it approved a resolution allowing the city to execute an agreement with Quality Custom Construction for the 2025 Concrete Construction and Paving Program. This will provide replacement of damaged curbs and sidewalks, as well as update ADA ramps. Next, the board moved into ordinances. First, the board approved the first reading of an ordinance approving a conditional use permit for a vehicle tow yard. This ordinance will be brought back for its’ second reading by title only at the next board meeting. The board then discussed the first reading of an ordinance amending title IV, section 400.290 of city code by limiting parking in the rear yard. The board also clarified the exception section to this code: if a lot is less than 0.75 acres, the resident is allowed two items in the rear yard whether they are visible or not. The first reading of the ordinance was approved by a vote of 4-2 with Aldermen Bray and Knox voting nay. Following this, the board moved into the city administrator report, where it was pointed out that the second board meeting in May falls on Memorial Day. This meeting was subsequently voted to be canceled. The meeting was then adjourned. The next Board of Aldermen meeting will take place at City Hall on May 12th at 6:30pm.  by Cole Arndorfer, Grain Valley News The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met on Monday, April 14th for its first April meeting. In new business, the Board approved two fireworks permits, one for the Grain Valley Band Parent Association and the other for the Grain Valley Economic Development Corporation. Both permits were approved on the condition of one form still needed from the Economic Development Corporation. The board then moved into resolutions. The board approved eight resolutions with the intents ranging from entering an agreement for water tower and tank maintenance, to approving Midwest Public Risk for city employee insurance plans, and entering an agreement with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilly, Inc. for surveying and testing. After resolutions, the board moved into ordinances. First, the board approved an ordinance amending the 2025 budget to execute a task order with Crawford, Murphy, and Tilly, Inc. for surveying services and easement allocation for the Southwest Eagles Parkway Trail. The first read was approved and the ordinance was brought back by title only and approved once again. The board then approved the first reading of an ordinance approving a conditional use permit for a vehicle tow yard. This ordinance will be brought back by title only at the board’s next meeting. Following this, the board adjourned into executive session. The next Board of Aldermen meeting will take place on April 28th at 6:30pm inside City Hall. Grain Valley Community Center Manager Jim Meyer is a familiar face to those who frequent the Community Center, and is known for his friendly demeanor and extensive experience in the Parks and Recreation Department. Meyer's quick action on Monday morning to utilize the Center's AED likely saved a man's life. A senior citizen utilizing the fitness center on the morning of April 7th suffered a medical emergency and was found unresponsive. Other fitness center patrons alerted staff of the issue, and Meyer quickly sprang into action, performing AED on the man who is now recovering from the incident. Meyer said he and his staff regularly undergo training, including training on using an AED, an automated external defibrillator. The AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart muscle to try and restore a normal heartbeat. Meyer said the AED prompts are clear and easy for any person to assist someone in need, and he was grateful for the training and the quick action of his staff and patrons on site Monday morning. Paramedics arrived quickly and the man was transported to the hospital for evaluation. Meyer said AEDs are located in all city park facilities and outside at Armstrong Park. "He needed help, and I was just glad he was here at our place," Meyer said.   Meyer said he and his staff regularly undergo training, including training on using an AED, an automated external defibrillator. The AED analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart muscle to try and restore a normal heartbeat. Photo credit: City of Grain Valley, Grain Valley News staff
With a pathetic 14.1% voter turnout in Jackson County, voters turned down a bond issue to build a new city hall and community center. 55.59% voted no to defeat the issue.
Uncontested candidates in each of the City of Grain Valley's three wards were elected to terms on the Board of Aldermen. In Ward I, Jim Myers was elected to a first term. In Ward II, first time candidate Lisa Limberg was elected, and in Ward III, incumbent Brian Bray was voted in for another term. Incumbents Jason Williams and Jeffrey Porter retained their seats on the Grain Valley School Board. First time candidate Michael Cassidy came within 17 votes of Porter. As we continue our coverage of issues on the April ballot, we invited Board of Aldermen candidates to submit answers to a short questionnaire to help voters get to know them better. All answers are printed as submitted without editing.  Brian Bray, Aldermen Ward III Please tell us about yourself (work background, volunteer service, elected positions held, etc.) I’ve been a resident of Grain Valley since 2006 and have proudly served as Alderman for Ward III since April 2023. Prior to my election, I spent several years on the Grain Valley Park Board, where I contributed to long-term planning and the stewardship of our city’s parklands. My professional background is in Information Technology — I currently work at Mastercard as a Principal Solution Architect, designing and managing complex software and network systems. With over 30 years in the IT field, I bring a strategic, problem-solving mindset to both my professional role and my work on the Board of Aldermen. I have raised three sons here. Two have graduated from Grain Valley High School and are pursuing careers in National Defense and the Electrical Trade. My youngest is currently a student at GVHS and is active in the JROTC program. We are deeply rooted in this community, and I consider it a privilege to serve my neighbors. Tell us why you would like to serve another term on the board. Grain Valley is growing, and with that growth comes both opportunity and responsibility. I’m seeking a second term to continue advocating for smart, balanced development that respects the character of our community while preparing us for the future. Over my last term, I’ve worked to be transparent, and support initiatives that keep our neighborhoods safe and connected. I am a firm believer in representing the needs of my constituents over my own and strive to stay connected with the community via social media and other channels. There’s still work to be done, and I want to continue being a voice for residents who care about thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, and the overall well-being of our city. I believe in open dialogue, practical solutions, and steady leadership — and I’m committed to helping Grain Valley thrive. What do you believe are the three most important issues the City should be focused on in the next five years and how would you support these efforts? 1. Managed Growth and Infrastructure As Grain Valley continues to grow, we must ensure our infrastructure keeps pace. That includes roads, utilities, public safety services, and amenities like parks. I support planning that aligns development with long-term sustainability — working closely with staff, developers, and residents to make sure we grow the right way. 2. Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability Residents deserve confidence in how their tax dollars are being used. I’ve actively challenged the county’s handling of property tax assessments and will continue advocating for oversight, transparency, and strong financial stewardship at the city level. I’ll support budgeting practices that prioritize core services and long-term investments over short-term gains. 3. Community Safety and Quality of Life Whether it’s investing in law enforcement, my push to expanding anti-bullying initiatives to protect our children, or supporting recreational opportunities for families, I believe local government plays a key role in enhancing quality of life. I’ll continue to promote partnerships between the city, schools, and civic groups to foster a safe, engaged, and welcoming environment for all residents.  Lisa Limberg, Alderman Candidate Ward II 1) Please tell us about yourself (work background, volunteer service, elected positions held, etc.) * I have lived in Grain Valley for over 38 years and have a deep connection with the community. As a mother of two Grain Valley graduates and a grandmother to four grandchildren and two bonus grandchildren, I am passionate about contributing to the town’s growth. I currently serve on the Grain Valley Park Board and previously dedicated 20 years as a Board Member for the Grain Valley Assistance Council. With 25 years of experience working in the Grain Valley School District and my current role with the Board of Directors for Kansas City Public Schools, I bring a deep understanding of educational systems and governance. Throughout my career, I have attended over 650 board meetings, served as Board Secretary, and provided administrative support to six Superintendents. These experiences have provided me with invaluable insights into effective leadership, strategic decision-making, and fostering strong community engagement. Tell us why you would like to serve on the Board of Aldermen. I am passionate about being a voice for our senior citizens, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to thrive. Our seniors have contributed so much to our community, and it is our responsibility to ensure they are heard and valued. I am also in support of expanding our community facilities: Advocate for the construction of a new, larger community center to provide a hub for community activities and events. Promoting Smart Growth: Implement smart growth strategies that encourage sustainable development, protect open spaces, and enhance the quality of life. I believe that by working together, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. I am committed to being a proactive and responsive leader who listens to your concerns and takes action to make our community a better place for all. What do you believe are the three most important issues the City should be focused on in the next five years and how would you support these efforts? Community Development and Infrastructure 1. Expanding Community Facilities: Grain Valley's population has tripled in the past 25 years, creating a need for larger and more modern community facilities.
 Jim Myers, Alderman Candidate Ward I Please tell us about yourself (work background, volunteer service, elected positions held, etc.). I have worked in Grain Valley for 16 years and have lived here for the past 10 years. I am a career educator currently serving as the Principal at Grain Valley South Middle School. Before that, I was a middle school teacher in the Liberty Public School District. Altogether, I have dedicated 32 years to education. Additionally, I served in the Army National Guard for nine years. This is my first time seeking public office. Tell us why you would like to serve on the Board of Aldermen. Serving on the Board of Aldermen would allow me to continue giving back to the community beyond my career as an educator. For years, I have followed the issues impacting our city, and I believe now is the right time to become more actively involved in shaping decisions that affect Grain Valley’s future. What do you believe are the three most important issues the City should be focused on in the next five years, and how would you support these efforts? First, we need to make Grain Valley an attractive place for people of all ages to call home. Our proximity to Kansas City is a tremendous asset, and we should continue leveraging that to grow our community.Second, we must focus on attracting more retail businesses to Grain Valley. I believe we are approaching a pivotal moment where this growth will accelerate, and I want to help guide that process. Finally, Grain Valley is still primarily a bedroom community. It’s essential to bring in employers who can offer high-paying jobs to our residents, reducing the need to commute elsewhere for work and enhancing our local economy. by Cole Arndorfer, Grain Valley News The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met briefly on Monday, March 24 for its second March meeting. The first resolution approved by the board will amend the 2025 budget to reflect the need to repair the HVAC unit in the Community Center. The second resolution approved by the board authorizes the city to repair the HVAC unit in the Community Center. The board then reviewed and approved two ordinances. The first ordinance approved by the board will amend chapter 135 of city code to add disposition of seized, unclaimed, or abandoned property in the custody of the city. The second ordinance approved by the board authorizes the city to use funds from the Park Fund Reserves to repair the HVAC unit in the Community Center. Parks and Recreation Director Shannon Davies reported on the status of youth sports seasons in the city. Davies said that t-ball, baseball, and softball season is getting ready to start within the city. Currently the leagues are sitting at 451 participants, about the same as years past. The next meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be held at 6:30pm on April 14 at City Hall.  The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen held a brief meeting on Monday, March 10th, approving two resolutions and the first reading of one ordinance. The first resolution approved by the Board authorized the City Administrator to purchase a 2026 Freightliner 1085SD Dump Truck for the Public Works Division. The second resolution approved authorized the purchase of updated in-car and body cameras for police officers. The Board also approved the first reading of an ordinance amending City Code Chapter 135 to add disposition of seized, unclaimed, or abandoned property in the custody of the City of Grain Valley. The next meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be held at 6:30pm on Monday, March 24th.  Image credit: City of Grain Valley As previously reported, (Municipal Facilities Focus Group hosts open house to debut city hall, community center plans), voters will be asked to approve a $24.6 million bond issue on the April 2025 ballot to fund construction of a new city hall and community center building on the site of the old Sni-A-Bar Farm on south Buckner Tarsney Road, just south of the new Mid-Continent Public Library. Ballot Language: Shall the City of Grain Valley, Missouri, issue its general obligation bonds in the amount of $24,600,000 for the purpose of site development and the acquiring, constructing, improving, furnishing, and equipping of a new municipal complex, to include a city hall and a community center? The new facilities would replace existing facilities built in the early 2000s and located just south of I-70. City officials indicated that the former Sni-A-Bar Farm is the only city-owned property in Grain Valley that could accommodate the scope of these facilities. While the plan up for approval includes a new city hall and community center facility, the Municipal Facilities Focus Group emphasized the need for the city to plan for a new aquatics facility on the site within 3-5 years. The bond proposal would fund the construction of the facilities, and if approved it would not cause an increase to the current tax levy. In a dedicated webpage on the City website promoting the plan, the city points out the tax levy has decreased by 30% since 2020. For more information on the proposed project, visit Valley Vision-Municipal Facilities | Our City, Our Future. If approved, final design and construction documents will begin immediately, with completion of the project taking approximately 18 months. by Cole Arndorfer, Grain Valley News The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met on Monday, February 24 for its second meeting of the month. The brief meeting consisted of just two new resolutions. With no public comments, previous business, new business, presentations, or public hearings, the board jumped right into resolutions. The first resolution the board approved designates city property as a permissible location for 2025 Food Truck Friday events. The second resolution approved by the board allows the city to enter into an agreement with Midwest Pool Management for lifeguards at the Grain Valley Aquatic Center for the 2025 season. This is the extension of the existing three-year contract with Midwest Pool Management and the city has had an agreement with the company since 2009. The meeting was adjourned into executive session. The next Board of Aldermen meeting will be held on Monday, March 10 at 6:30 pm inside City Hall. |
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