Message from the Mayor

Hello neighbors,

This past July was National Parks and Recreation Month—a time to recognize the vital role parks and recreation play in strengthening our community. Here in Blue Springs, our Parks & Recreation Department does more than manage green spaces; they help build connections, promote wellness and create moments of joy for residents of all ages.

Throughout the year, our parks serve as the backdrop for many of the community events that define Blue Springs. From the patriotic celebration of last month’s Red, White & Blue Springs to the family-friendly Halloween fun of Spooky Springs in the fall, and the magical North Pole Trail of Lights during the holiday season, these signature events bring people together and create lifelong memories.

But the story of our parks goes beyond events. Thanks to the renewed Parks Sales Tax, we've been able to make substantial investments to improve and expand our parks and recreational offerings. This funding has allowed for renovations to playgrounds, improvements to trails, upgrades to athletic fields and modernized park facilities. It’s also helped us move forward on larger projects that ensure our parks remain safe, accessible and enjoyable for future generations.

Blue Springs is a growing city, and we’re committed to maintaining the high quality of life our residents expect and deserve. Parks and recreation are a big part of that. Whether you're walking the trails at Grounds Park, cooling off at Blue Surf Bay Waterpark or enjoying a summer concert at Rotary Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

I encourage you to get outside and take advantage of all our parks have to offer. And if you see a Parks staff member at work, be sure to thank them—they're the heart behind the experiences that make Blue Springs a great place to live, work and play.

Chris Lievsay

Mayor, Blue Springs, Mo.

City News

Spotlight on Blue Springs Magazine

The City of Blue Springs would like to welcome you to the launch of Spotlight on Blue Springs, a magazine dedicated to highlighting the City and what makes it a great place to live, work and play.

This quarterly publication, a companion piece to the monthly newsletter, will serve as a dynamic storytelling platform, offering readers an inside look at the heart of Blue Springs. The goal of Spotlight on Blue Springs is to bring uplifting narratives to life, highlighting the positive impact of city initiatives.

Stories for each edition of the magazine may include:

• Community Spotlights – Showcasing inspiring residents, volunteers and leaders who contribute to Blue Springs’ success.
• City Projects & Initiatives – Updates on infrastructure, parks and programs that enhance our quality of life.
• Events & Happenings – A roundup of can’t-miss events and activities for residents of all ages.
• Hidden Gems – Uncovering lesser-known places and experiences that make our city special.
• Blue Springs History - Exploring the people, places and moments that shaped our community over time.

Know Your City Codes

The City of Blue Springs is providing a series of articles highlighting some of the most common Code Violations. From overgrown grass to improper parking, we'll break down each Code, why they matter and how you can help keep our community clean, safe and beautiful.

Inoperable Vehicles

Did you know that having an inoperable vehicle parked on the street or in your yard is a big NO-NO in Blue Springs. They must be stored inside a garage or removed from the premises. For inoperable vehicles in the street contact Blue Springs non-emergency PD Dispatch at 816-228-0151 or 816-228-0152.

The reasoning for this Code is due to public safety (fire hazard, traffic obstruction pest control) and aesthetic (decreased property values, public nuisance) concerns.  For more information, you can view the Code here.

Parked Vehicles

Cars and trucks are not permitted to park on grass or lawns. Your grass deserves better than tire tracks and oil stains. Cars and trucks belong on the pavement—not your prized patch of green! Got an RV or trailer? You can store it in your driveway, side yard or backyard if you have access. Why the fuss? Because flattened lawns = angry neighbors, drainage disasters and a drop in curb appeal.

The reasoning for this Code is to prevent damage to grass, soil and drainage systems, as well as to maintain the aesthetic appeal of residential areas, thereby affecting property values. For more information, you can view the Code here.

Board of the Month - Appearance Review Committee

The Appearance Review Committee is responsible for review of application for site plan design review applications within the Adams Dairy Parkway Overlay zoning district and makes recommendations to the Mayor and City Council. Committee review shall not be required for single-family detached and duplex residential structures or for alterations and repairs not affecting the outward appearance of a building or site.

On April 18, 2022 the City Council adopted Rules of Procedure for each of the City's Boards and Commissions. The Rules of Procedure for the Appearance Review Committee can be viewed here: Rules of Procedure On-Call Boards

Meetings of the Appearance Review Committee are held on a periodic basis based on complete submittal and review of applications and at such other times as the Appearance Review Committee may determine, typically held on weekday mornings approximately one to three times per year.

The Appearance Review Committee is comprised of three members who serve three-year terms and are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council. Members must be residents of Blue Springs and familiar with or experienced in matters of aesthetic judgment.

Citizens who desire to serve on a city board or commission may apply by filling out the online Boards and Commissions Application. All meetings are open to the public.

Upcoming Events

Contact Your City Councilmember

District 1

Galen Ericson

Jerry Kaylor

District 2

Kent Edmondson

Katie Tholen

District 3

Nick Brummel

Jeremy Rowan