Mayor aims to crack down on neglected surface lots
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Mayor Quinton Lucas. Photo illustration: Axios Visuals. Photo: Kyle Rivas/Getty Images
Parking lots in Kansas City's most popular districts are coming under increased scrutiny in a city ordinance that Mayor Quinton Lucas introduced last week.
Why it matters: It's an attempt to crack down on crime, remove blight and set clearer standards in places like the Crossroads, Westport and the Plaza, according to the ordinance.
Zoom in: The ordinance says each parking lot in an entertainment district must have a permit and follow specific design and safety requirements, such as lighting, cameras, cleaning, insurance and permanent fencing.
- Permit applications must include a plan to maintain standards, and each lot will be subject to an annual inspection.
- The rules won't apply to free public lots for adjacent businesses or those monitored by 24/7 security.
The big picture: The ordinance argues that neglected surface lots lead to vehicle thefts, vandalism, assaults and shootings.
- Police tell Axios that vacant properties, code violations and poor lighting are included in their crime risk factors.
Case in point: Midtown KC Now executive director Kevin Klinkenberg tells Axios parking lots sometimes become "after-hours party areas."
What we're watching: The proposed surface lot rules follow higher standards for used car lots, which the City Plan Commission recommended for approval last week.
Between the lines: City leaders are also trying to expedite a temporary jail over worries of increased crime during the World Cup, which is expected to bring in 650,000 people between June 11 and July 19.
- Other city programs, like filling storefronts and painting dozens of new murals, have been attributed to the event.
What they're saying: "While hosting global events like the World Cup provides an opportunity to showcase Kansas City, our commitment to safer streets, better lighting, and stronger oversight of problem properties extends beyond any single event," the mayor's office said in a statement to Axios.
The other side: More regulations mean additional costs to parking lot owners. In addition to paying for mandatory upgrades, owners will be on the hook for permitting and inspection costs:
- $110 per permit application
- $50 inspection fee for lots up to 20 spaces (plus $50 for every additional 20 spaces)
- A fine of up to $500 per day for operating without a permit
Yes, but: Lot owners who can prove the mandated costs would impose unique hardship may be exempt.
What's next: The ordinance will be heard by the City Council Finance Committee on Sept. 9.
- If approved by City Council, parking lot owners will have nine months to comply before the ordinance goes into effect.