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Unity Village Annexation

The City Council recently approved a Cooperative Agreement between the City and Unity Village related to the annexation and development of approximately 300 acres of land south of Colbern Road between 350 Highway and Douglas Road. The property can contain an estimated 2.2 million square feet capacity for "Class A" and other commercial-oriented development upon full build-out.

A tract of approximately 25-30 acres within Phase 1 was donated to the City for use by the Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation system. Continue to watch for updates on this project.

Why would a Unity Villa resident be interested in becoming a part of the City of Lee’s Summit?

You already have a great place to live in a safe environment. Some benefits of becoming a Lee’s Summit resident may interest you as well. We have listed the “top three” that come to our mind that may have the greatest impact:

•    A Nationally Accredited Police Department
•    Access to the Parks and Recreation Program at resident rates
•    Opportunity to have a voice in the City of Lee’s Summit governance process

We are proud of our ability to offer great municipal services to our businesses and residents. There is an open environment for citizens to express their voice to City Hall, whether you are concerned with a pending decision or supportive of an initiative. It has been this ability to consider all perspectives that has helped our community make the best long-term decisions for its citizens. As a Lee’s Summit citizen, you will be given the opportunity to vote for the Mayor and City Councilmembers who represent your interests. If the proposed Unity Village annexation is successful, there is a good chance that new development will occur near your home. Many have a strong interest in how development occurs and would want to participate in these discussions as “Lee’s Summit Citizens”.

Why would the City of Lee’s Summit be interested in annexing the Unity Villa apartments?

Based upon the current assessed valuation of the Unity Villa apartment complex, the net new property taxes for the City of Lee’s Summit is approximately $4,000 a year. Our annual operating budget for the City of Lee’s Summit (General Fund, Utility Fund, and Capital Improvements) exceeds $60M a year. So there is not a financial incentive for the City to annex the Unity Villa apartments. However, our community values the importance of participation and inclusion. If the proposed Unity Village annexation is successful, we will probably maintain Colbern Road. If the areas develop near your home, we would be responsible for assuring the quality of the development and impact on surrounding properties. We would like to have you in our community. As a citizen you can bring new ideas to us, volunteer on a citizen board or commission, and help us plan for our future.

Where can I learn more about the City of Lee’s Summit operations and finances?

An annual report on operations (Operational Assessment Report) is prepared for the Mayor and City Council and community review. This is probably one of the best “one-stop” informational documents with a broad overview of our work and responsibilities. This report is available on the City of Lee’s Summit Web site at www.cityofls.net. While visiting our City Web site, you may also want to check out other helpful information below:

Unity Village Annexation

Annexation Map

A tract of approximately 25-30 acres within Phase 1 was donated to the City for use by the Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation system. Continue to watch for updates on this project.