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Category: City Manager, Mayor + Council

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City closures and modified hours to expect over Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day is a time to remember those who sacrificed their lives serving in the United States military. As you prepare to spend time with family and friends over the extended weekend, please plan around closures and modified hours at City facilities on Monday, May 27: Modified Hours Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St. […]

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Overland Park community survey results for 2024

The City’s community survey results are in, and Overland Park residents have again rated the city a top place in dozens of categories. The City of Overland Park, in partnership with ETC Institute, Inc. sends the community survey out every other year. It asks a variety of questions to assess residents’ level of satisfaction with […]

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OP police chief search begins in earnest

June 18 Update: The recruitment profile for Overland Park’s next police chief is now available. See the position description, recruitment brochure and more on the Public Sector Search and Consulting website. The community survey is now closed. June 3 Update: The City continues to seek input from the community on qualities and values that the […]

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Event graphic for the Community Blood Drive.

Sign up to save lives at the Community Blood Drive

Every drop counts!  Mark your calendars for an opportunity to make a life-saving donation at the City of Overland Park’s Community Blood Drive, hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross. Join fellow heroes on Wednesday, May 29 between 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Myron E. Scafe building, located at 8500 Antioch Rd.   The Red […]

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Graphic that reads "Framework OP" and "Creating a citywide plan for action."

Overland Park adopts new community-driven plan

The Overland Park City Council adopted FrameworkOP, the City’s new comprehensive plan, at its meeting May 6. The process to update FrameworkOP started in 2022 with a community kickoff event.  Throughout the planning process, more than 2,000 Overland Park residents, business owners, visitors and others were involved, sharing their hopes for the community’s future. “Not […]

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A man smiles on his bike, standing next to a table and sign that reads "Bike To Work Week."

Pedal Power: Celebrate National Bike to Work Week in OP

Get ready to pedal! Celebrate National Bike to Work Week May 13-17. With over 120 miles of bike lanes and numerous bike trails crisscrossing the City, Overland Park’s cycling infrastructure provides a safe two-wheel journey to work for residents. Swing by the City’s breakfast stops when you switch up your commute. From 6:30-8 a.m. each […]

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Overland Park joins LEED for Cities Local Government Leadership Program

The City of Overland Park joined the 2024 national cohort of the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED for Cities Local Government Leadership Program.  The LEED for Cities program helps local governments committed to sustainability and advancing resilience and social equity by measuring and tracking performance using the LEED for Cities rating system. “Participating in LEED for […]

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OP again named a best place to live

Overland Park is again near the top of a list of “Best Places to Live in the U.S.” Research organization Livability.com named Overland Park the seventh best place to live in the country. Livability has created a list of the best places to live in America for more than a decade. The organization considers a […]

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A hand holds a rectangular paper card that had a green recycle logo on it.

City partners with Ripple Glass for Multifamily Recycling Program

This City is taking steps to promote sustainable practices within the community while tackling the challenges posed by glass disposal. Overland Park teamed up with Ripple Glass to introduce glass recycling services specifically for multifamily facilities.  The Multifamily Glass Recycling Program caters to properties that previously lacked glass recycling amenities, filling a crucial gap in […]

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Graphic that reads "Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting" and features a photo of Downtown Overland Park's Clock Tower Landing.

OP earns “Triple Crown” of government finance awards

City of Overland Park staff are proud to share that the City has won three awards for excellence in government finance. The Government Finance Officers Association recognizes excellence in public finance.  This month, the City’s Finance Department learned it received the organization’s certificate for excellence in financial reporting.  The achievement recognizes the staff’s work to […]

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Mayor’s Message for April 2024

In his April video message, hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community. This month, the mayor shares details about: Getting involved in the City’s 2025 Budget process,  Celebrating Earth Month in Overland Park,  And a recap of the 2023-2024 snow season. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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Two children run down a concrete path in a forest. One girl holds a pink Barbie kite.

Mark your calendars; Your OP Event Guide for May 2024

Fill your schedule with exciting events happening in Overland Park! From family fun and creative workshops to Governing Body and committee meetings, the City’s event calendar is packed with endless opportunities to get involved in your community and make memories with friends and family: Farmers’ Market – Saturdays from 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Spend Saturday mornings […]

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Graphic that reads "Overland Park Recycling Extravaganza."

Get ready to go green! Recycling Extravaganza returns April 20

Spring clean sustainably! Recycle and donate unwanted items or dispose of them responsibly at the Recycling Extravaganza on April 20 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Black & Veatch Campus, 11401 Lamar. Recycle and donate items not collected by routine curbside recycling that may otherwise end up in a landfill. Whether you have electronic gadgets […]

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Graphic that reads "Earth Day Bingo."

Celebrate Earth Day in OP with Bingo

Positively impact our planet – one bingo square at a time! From planting native plants in your yard to recycling at the Recycling Center, there’s something for everyone on the Earth Day Bingo card. Each activity is designed to promote sustainability while having fun. Make sure to snap a photo of yourself completing Earth Day […]

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The street of Downtown Overland Park and Clock Tower Landing, with a bright blue sky and single white cloud in the background.

Citywide survey out now

A very important piece of mail may be in your mailbox. The City is sending out the Citywide Survey this spring to a sampling of Overland Park residents. The survey measures the community’s satisfaction with the services and programs the City provides. Elected officials and City staff use the survey’s results to determine strategies for […]

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Spread kindness in Overland Park with SevenDays

Overland Park proudly supports SevenDays and its mission to combat hate by fostering kindness and understanding across our community. SevenDays is a local nonprofit organization determined to make our community more inclusive and nurturing by creating a wave of positive change, one kind act at a time. To honor the memory of three lives lost […]

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Digital rendering of the moon covering the sun during a solar eclipse.

Partial solar eclipse visible from OP April 8

The views from Overland Park on April 8 will be out of this world. Keep your eyes on the skies to catch a glimpse of a solar eclipse!  A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting its shadow on our planet, a rare alignment that only happens when the […]

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Mayor’s Message for March 2024

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his March video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: Exciting events happening this spring,   Opportunities to get involved in plans for OP Central, And the upcoming Citywide Survey. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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Stay safe this spring; Tips for severe weather preparedness

As spring approaches, so does the possibility of severe weather across the Midwest.  The National Weather Service designated March 4-8 Severe Weather Preparedness Week to promote diligent planning for inclement weather. Stay safe this severe weather season by staying informed and preparing for our area’s most common types of severe weather. The first line of […]

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A young girl smiles at the camera while climbing on the playground at Strang Park.

Overland Park named among Happiest Cities in America

We may be biased, but we believe Overland Park is the best place to live, work and play!  WalletHub recently crowned OP one of the Happiest Cities in America, coming in second on the list of cities across the United States.  Wallethub ranks cities based on a variety of factors across three key dimensions: Emotional […]

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City to kick off recruitment process for next police chief

The City is hiring its next police chief. The City will hire an executive recruitment firm to conduct a nationwide search for a chief and engage the community and officers regarding their priorities for a Police Department leader.  A committee of community representatives will select the contractor to do this work. The selected contractor will […]

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An image depicting an illuminated 'I Heart OP' sign at the Fall Festival.

10 reasons to fall in love with OP

Nestled in the heart of America, Overland Park stands out as a hidden gem with its unique blend of charm and community spirit. While OP may not be the official “City of Love,” here are 10 reasons why Overland Park is a city worth falling in love with: Picturesque ParksIt’s right there in our name! […]

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Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog gives 2022 State of the City address from the stage

Mayor Skoog to give State of the City Address March 5

Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog will present his State of the City address on March 5 at the University of Kansas Edwards Campus. During his address, Mayor Skoog will share community updates from the past year and consider Overland Park’s future quality of life, land use, housing, environment, economic well-being and mobility through the lens […]

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Mayor’s Message for February 2024

In his February video message, hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community. This month, the mayor shares: How to get involved with the City’s comprehensive plan, FrameworkOP,  Summer lifeguard opportunities with OP Pools,  And his upcoming State of the City address on March 5. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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Mayor’s Message for January 2024

In his January video message, hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community. This month, the mayor shares: An update on the City’s comprehensive plan, Framework OP, A shoutout to City snow crews for tackling the effects of winter weather,  And highlights from two recent awards ceremonies, celebrating both City staff […]

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A snowy exterior of the main City Hall entrance.

City closures for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

City offices and facilities will be closed on January 15 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day to honor the life and contributions of the civil rights leader. Please plan around closures at the following facilities: Closed Monday, January 15 City Hall, 8500 Santa Fe Dr.  Sanders Justice Center, 12300 Foster St. Recycling Center, […]

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What a year! A look back at 2023

As we quickly approach the end of another year, join us in revisiting the events and milestones that shaped Overland Park in 2023. Here are just a few highlights of the many programs, events and services the City provided this year: January Running of the GoatsMama goats at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead made their trek […]

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The front exterior of Overland Park City Hall lights up in red and green for the holidays.

City closures this holiday season

As you spend quality time with family and friends this holiday season, please plan around closures at City facilities: City Hall, 8500 Santa Fe Dr. Closed Dec. 25 Closed Jan. 1 Sanders Justice Center, 12300 Foster St.  Closed Dec. 25 Closed Jan. 1 Matt Ross Community Center & Tomahawk Ridge Community Center Open 10 a.m.-5 […]

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A chicken stands on the wooden plank leading out of the coop.

Chicken up on this egg-celent pilot program

After nearly two years of testing through a pilot program, backyard chickens will soon become a permanent fixture in some Overland Park neighborhoods. Previously, residents who wanted to raise chickens would need a special use permit, which had to be approved by the Planning Commission and City Council before it was issued.  In early 2022, […]

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Mayor’s Message for December 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his final video message of 2023. This month, the mayor shares opportunities to shape the future of OP Parks and Recreation and welcomes the newly elected members of the City Council. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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New and returning City Council members raise their right hands as they are sworn into office.

Meet your new Overland Park City Council

The City of Overland Park welcomed a new City Council Monday night, swearing in four newly-elected members and two re-elected members. Each council member sworn in Monday night was elected during the Nov. 7 election. The City Council is made up of 12 Overland Park residents elected from each of the city’s six wards. Together […]

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City closures around Thanksgiving

The holidays are approaching, and that means spending quality time with family and friends. Please plan around closures at City facilities this Thanksgiving: Closed November 23 Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St.  Tomahawk Community Center, 11902 Lowell Ave. Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th St.  Closed November 23-24 City Hall, 8500 […]

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Close-up look at red ornament hanging on a holiday tree.

‘Twas the week of the Mayor’s Holiday Festival

Join the Mayor as he lights the tree in Thompson Park! Come listen to live music, take your picture with Santa, do some holiday shopping and so much more during this festive evening.  The Mayor’s Holiday Festival kicks off at 5 p.m. this Friday, November 17. ‘Twas the week of the Mayor’s Holiday Festival, when […]

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Mayor’s Message for November 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his November video message. This month, the mayor shares: A special, heartfelt message on the Israel/Hamas war, How to get involved in the City’s Capital Improvements Program, And details about the Mayor’s Holiday Festival on November 17. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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City earns perfect equality score

The City of Overland Park earned a perfect Municipal Equality Index score in 2023.  The Human Rights Campaign, which issues the annual scorecard examining how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ people who live and work there, awarded Overland Park with a score of 100, the maximum number of points available. “We […]

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Mayor issues letter on Israel-Hamas war, supporting community

Mayor Curt Skoog shares the letter below with the Overland Park community: Dear Overland Park community, I write this open letter to acknowledge and share that many of our neighbors and coworkers are profoundly suffering. This last week, I sat across the table and heard from Palestinian and Jewish members of our community. They shared […]

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A pile of orange pumpkins sit in a pumpkin patch as the sun sets in the distance.

Harvest sustainability; Pumpkin composting opportunities in November

From carving spooky faces to baking delicious pies, pumpkins play a significant role in “gourd-geous” fall traditions. But what do you do with your pumpkins once the festivities are over?  Squash the waste! Rather than adding pumpkins to the landfill, drop your pumpkins off at one of the composting opportunities in OP throughout the month […]

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All treats, no tricks: Tips for a spooktacularly safe Halloween

With elaborate costumes, decorations and an abundance of treats, Halloween brings spooktacular joy to people of all ages! Prioritize safety this Spooky Season to ensure a memorable and happy Halloween.  1. Choose safe and visible costumes When selecting the perfect Halloween costume, keep safety in mind: Opt for brightly colored costumes or add reflective tape […]

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Choosing Our Future: Join the City’s comprehensive planning process from home

Participate in the City’s comprehensive planning processes online!  As the City continues its efforts to develop an updated Comprehensive Plan, share your thoughts on different land use and development approaches for example sites across Overland Park. The Comprehensive Plan provides guidance to policymakers considering land use applications like rezonings and special use permits. The City […]

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Mayor’s Message for October 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his October video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: Getting involved in the City’s comprehensive planning process, This year’s Mayor’s Golf Tournament and Public Safety Softball Game,  And the upcoming election on November 7. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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Recycle, shred and donate at the Recycling Extravaganza Oct. 14

Get ready to go green! Join us at the Recycling Extravaganza on Saturday, October 14, on the Black & Veatch campus at 11401 Lamar Ave. between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.  Recycle and donate items not collected by routine curbside recycling that may otherwise end up in a landfill.  The following items will be accepted […]

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Overland Park raises minimum pay for City employees to $15 per hour

Every City of Overland Park employee will now make at least $15 per hour, after a change in City compensation policy. City Manager Lori Curtis Luther announced the change this week, in an effort for the City to remain competitive in a challenging hiring market. “This is an important step toward ensuring we can continue […]

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National Preparedness Month: Creating your personalized emergency plan

September marks FEMA’s National Preparedness Month, raising awareness of the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that may happen without warning, including severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, flooding and snow and ice storms. Although people of all ages should prepare for emergencies, this year’s National Preparedness Month theme, “Take Control 1, 2, 3”, emphasizes emergency preparedness […]

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City closures Labor Day weekend

Rooted in the movement for fair working conditions during the late 19th century, Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers. As you spend time with family and friends over the extended weekend, please plan around closures and modified hours at City facilities on Monday, September 4: Modified […]

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Council members, staff take annual tour of City construction

City leadership and Council members joined the Overland Park Public Works Department for the Construction Tour on Aug. 26. This annual event provides an opportunity in the field for collaboration and dialogue between elected officials and the experts behind projects currently underway. Donning safety vests, City officials took the opportunity to step off the bus […]

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The street of Downtown Overland Park and Clock Tower Landing, with a bright blue sky and single white cloud in the background.

Overland Park approves 2024 Budget

After hearing from residents during public hearings on the 2024 Budget on Aug. 21, the Overland Park Governing Body, made up of the City Council and Mayor Curt Skoog, approved the 2024 Budget. The proposed total Budget totals $430.7 million, which is a 15 percent increase over the 2023 Budget. The budget makes no change […]

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Explore local government with Teen Council

Students, have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a part of your city’s decision-making process?  If you are a high school student living in or attending school in Overland Park, Teen Council offers an inside look at your local government and the opportunity to hone essential leadership skills.  A gateway to civic engagement, […]

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Mayor’s Message for August 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his August video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: The City’s response to severe weather, And the grand opening of LongHouse Visitor Center. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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Storm debris drop-off August 12-13

Overland Park residents affected by severe weather can drop storm debris off at Young’s Pool, 8421 W. 77th Street, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following days: Saturday, August 12 Sunday, August 13 Storm debris drop-off will not be offered on August 5-6 in order to clear debris collected during previous drop-off events and create […]

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Mayor joins Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative

Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog joins the seventh class of the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative. This yearlong program provides select mayors and senior city leaders with professional development, continued education and management training. With a foundation in strategic leadership, the program provides mayors with the resources, support and expertise to grow as leaders and […]

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Staying safe during a heat advisory; Tips to beat the heat

The National Weather Service placed the Kansas City metro, including Overland Park, under a heat advisory until 9 p.m. Friday, July 28. Actual temperatures are expected to reach triple digits with heat index values reaching up to 107 degrees.  As temperatures rise, stay safe with these heat advisory guidelines: Drink plenty of water Limit outdoor […]

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City connects residents with volunteer resources for storm cleanup

July 28 Update The preliminary phase of the City’s official storm debris operations has concluded. Volunteers may still be available to coordinate assistance on a limited basis. Thank you for your patience as assistance is scheduled based on resident need and volunteer availability. July 26 Update The City has been working with local organizations and […]

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Storm debris drop-off for July 14 storm

This weekend, Overland Park residents affected by Friday’s severe weather can drop storm debris off at either of two locations in the city. Overland Park Parks Headquarters, 11921 Hardy, and Young’s Pool, 8421 W. 77th Street, will serve as storm debris drop-off sites from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on the following days: Saturday, July 29 Sunday, […]

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Mayor’s Message for July 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his July video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: Key components of the City’s 2024 budget and your opportunities to get involved, Voter approval of the OP Moves sales tax, And National Parks & Recreation Month. Watch the Mayor’s Message […]

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Find quick solutions with OPCares

Did you discover a pothole, broken street light or another non-emergency issue? Overland Park’s online customer service center OPCares is a fast and easy way to report concerns and receive prompt assistance with street repairs, property code violations and more.  The OPCares portal is designed to enhance convenience and streamline communication between the City and […]

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City closures for Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our nation’s independence! As you spend time with family and friends over the holiday, please plan around closures and modified hours at City facilities on Tuesday, July 4: Modified Hours Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, 13800 Switzer Rd. (Open 9 a.m.-2 p.m.) All outdoor City pools (Open […]

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New household hazardous waste facility opens in OP

Clear household clutter and protect our planet by properly disposing of household hazardous waste at the new Johnson County Household Waste Collection and Reuse Facility located at 11231 Mastin St. in Overland Park.  Operating from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, the facility allows for the safe disposal of unwanted paint, household chemicals, […]

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Parade of Hearts returns to OP

Spreading love and art throughout our community, the Parade of Hearts is back. Overland Park is hosting four heart-themed public sculptures again this summer, each by a local artist showcasing their love for the Kansas City region.  You can spot the hearts at: McCarthy Honda, 7979 Metcalf Johnson County Community College, 12345 College Blvd Prairiefire, […]

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Overland Park approves infrastructure sales tax

Overland Park residents have approved a dedicated three-eighth cent sales tax to fund maintenance and improvements to City streets and traffic management systems.  The Johnson County Election Office announced preliminary results of the mail-in ballot election Thursday. The sales tax, which is dedicated to funding City infrastructure, passed with 53.4% approval. City Manager Lori Curtis […]

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The street of Downtown Overland Park and Clock Tower Landing, with a bright blue sky and single white cloud in the background.

Overland Park is one of the best places to live in America

The City of Overland Park is one of the top 100 places to live in the United States according to a study from Livability.com.  Livability credits Overland Park’s delicious barbecue, growing brewery scene, appreciation for the arts and beautiful outdoor spaces as some of the many reasons to love Overland Park. In addition, the City’s […]

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OP Moves ballots due back ASAP

The deadline to vote in the City’s OP Moves three-eighth cent sales tax election is coming up. Cast your vote in the Overland Park sales tax election by submitting your ballot to the Johnson County Election Office no later than noon on Thursday, June 22. Ballots sent via mail are also eligible if the election […]

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Recognizing Juneteenth in Overland Park

Juneteenth is a recognition and celebration of the end of slavery in the United States.  A combination of the terms “June” and “nineteenth,” this holiday, which takes place annually on June 19, marks the date in which Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865, ensuring the freedom of all enslaved people in the state. […]

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Ideas for every dad; Five ways to celebrate Father’s Day in OP

Father’s Day is almost here! Whether you are a father, about to become a father or are celebrating the father figure in your life, Overland Park is full of opportunities to celebrate and make memories with dad. Hit the links! Book a tee time at one of Overland Park’s scenic golf courses. The tree lined […]

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Ballots arrive; Town Hall Thursday

Check your mailbox – ballots are arriving for the City’s three-eighth cent sales tax election. Overland Park is holding a special election for a dedicated sales tax this month. If approved, the sales tax would generate $20.5 million to fund improvements to the City’s streets and the City’s traffic management system. The City held the […]

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Three public works workers perform street construction, with one driving a construction vehicle. In front of them on the ground sits a "Road Closed" sign and multiple orange construction cones.

Infrastructure, recruitment drive 2024 budget recommendation

City Manager Lori Curtis Luther presented the proposed 2024 Budget to Mayor Curt Skoog and the Overland Park City Council. Budget recommendations focus on implementing recommendations of the City’s Infrastructure Advisory Group, recruiting and retaining a talented workforce, and continuing to implement the City Council’s strategic goals. The proposed total Budget totals $430.7 million, which […]

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Mayor’s Message for June 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his June video message. In this month’s special edition of the Mayor’s Message, the mayor shares details about the City’s three-eighths cent sales tax election, including information on: Casting your vote, Upcoming town hall events, And how the sales tax would impact […]

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OP Moves: Voter registration deadline June 1

Residents must register by Thursday, June 1 in order to vote in the Overland Park special election for a dedicated three-eighths cent sales tax. To register to vote, visit the Johnson County Election Office website. Voters who registered before May 23 will automatically receive their ballot in the mail in early June. The election office […]

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10 activities for a Memorial Day weekend staycation in Overland Park

Looking for activities close to home over Memorial Day weekend? Look no further. Here are 10 opportunities to make memories with the entire family while stay-cationing in Overland Park: Dive into our refreshing outdoor pools on opening day, May 28.  Get up close and personal with more than 250 animals and birds at Deanna Rose […]

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City closures Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day is a time to remember those who sacrificed their lives serving in the United States military. As you spend time with family and friends over the extended weekend, please plan around closures and modified hours at City facilities on Monday, May 29: Modified Hours Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St. (8 a.m.-2 […]

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City to host town hall events for upcoming special election

The City of Overland Park will host three town hall events for residents interested in learning more about the upcoming OP Moves sales tax election. If approved by voters, the initiative would raise the City’s dedicated sales tax from one-eighths (0.125 percent) cent to three-eighths (0.375 percent) cent.  Revenue from the increase will allow the […]

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Mayor’s Message for May 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his May video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: This summer’s three-eighths cent sales tax election, Opportunities to share your thoughts on the City’s future, Upcoming spring and summer activities. Watch the Mayor’s Message below. […]

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Travel back to 1960, the year of Overland Park’s incorporation

Overland Park is celebrating 63 years as a first-class city in 2023. The City was officially incorporated on May 20, 1960 with a population of 28,085.  Today, Overland Park spans 75.6 square miles of Johnson County, and is home to more than 200,000 residents, making it the second most populous city in Kansas and metropolitan […]

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Overland Park Convention Center partners with food recovery organization Pete’s Garden

The Overland Park Convention Center is expanding its strategies for sustainable conventions and meetings with a new partnership to minimize food waste. The convention center announced a partnership with Pete’s Garden, a food recovery organization that takes surplus prepared foods from local caterers, restaurants, and food service operations, and prepares healthy family-sized meals for those […]

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3/8 cent sales tax would fund needed safety improvements

A report from the resident committee tasked with making recommendations to improve the City’s infrastructure is clear: Much of Overland Park’s transportation infrastructure will need to be updated to guarantee the safety of the thousands of residents who travel across the City’s roadways, bridges, and sidewalks each day.  Under optimal conditions and with regular maintenance, […]

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Plan a memorable Mother’s Day in Overland Park

Mother’s Day weekend is almost here! Whether you are a mother, about to become a mother or are celebrating the mother in your life, Overland Park is full of opportunities to celebrate and be celebrated. Pick out a bouquet of fresh flowers for your mom at the Farmers’ Market. Better yet, spend some quality time […]

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Get moving this May for National Bike Month

Celebrate cycling and the power of pedals during National Bike Month.  The City of Overland Park’s bicycling infrastructure offers residents and visitors the opportunity to explore safely on two wheels. More than 120 miles of bike lanes and dozens of miles of bike trails weave through Overland Park, connecting the City’s parks, neighborhoods, schools and […]

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Two people work together to carry a mattress away from a house.

Recycling events divert tons of waste from landfills

Reduce, reuse and celebrate recycling! The City of Overland Park’s spring mattress collection and Recycling Extravaganza events diverted more than 1,000 mattresses and 100 tons of waste from landfills.  Mattress Recycling This spring, the City facilitated bulky item pick-up for homes east of Antioch to properly dispose of unwanted mattresses and box springs. The City […]

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Overland Park named Tree City USA by Arbor Day Foundation

The Arbor Day Foundation recognized Overland Park as a 2022 Tree City, honoring the City’s commitment to effective urban forest management ahead of Arbor Day. The City also received a Tree City USA Growth Award for demonstrating environmental improvement and an outstanding level of tree care.  Overland Park has maintained its Tree City USA designation […]

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Five ways to celebrate Earth Day in Overland Park

Caring for the environment helps our community thrive! Here are five ways to promote sustainability, clean water and quality air in Overland Park in celebration of Earth Day April 22: 1. Plant a native tree. Planting native trees reduces stormwater runoff. Unless otherwise controlled, stormwater runoff can affect water quality, picking up excess nutrients and […]

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OP Moves: June 2023 sales tax election for streets, traffic

In June 2023, Overland Park residents will consider a sales tax dedicated to the maintenance and construction of the City’s transportation infrastructure. While the City carefully monitors and maintains Overland Park’s more 2,000 lane miles of streets and associated traffic safety devices, additional investment in transportation infrastructure will ensure that the streets, bridges, and sidewalks […]

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Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog gives 2022 State of the City address from the stage

Mayor Skoog to give State of the City Address April 25

Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog will present his State of the City address on April 25, 2023 at Aspiria Auditorium.  During his address, the Mayor will reflect on the successes over the last year that have made Overland Park a nationally recognized place to live and work. He will also share remarks about the City’s […]

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Downtown Overland Park Parking Guide

With nearly 300 locally owned businesses, Downtown Overland Park offers a wide variety of places to shop, dine and explore. The first step to a successful trip to Downtown OP is finding the perfect parking spot. All of the major streets have multiple accessible on-street parking spaces.  Free public parking is also available at: Strang […]

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Farmers’ Market returns to Downtown Overland Park April 15

Fresh produce, meats, cheeses and specialty products return to Downtown Overland Park on Saturday, April 15 as the Overland Park Farmers’ Market opens for the season. This year’s market layout will resemble the 2022 expanded pavilion site, expanding out from under the Farmers’ Market pavilion and into nearby parking lots and onto Marty Street. As […]

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Mayor’s Message for April 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his April video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: Opening day at the Overland Park Farmers’ Market on April 15,   Downtown parking options, What makes Overland Park one of the top five places to live in the midwest. Watch the […]

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Overland Park named in top five best places to live in the Midwest

There’s no place like home! The City of Overland Park is one of the top five places to live in the Midwest according to a study from Livability.com. Livability credits Overland Park’s sturdy economy, plentiful job opportunities and proximity to Kansas City for a wave of new residents moving to the area. Both new and […]

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Ash Tree Removal and Replacement Program Begins

The City of Overland Park began its Ash Tree Removal Program this week to proactively remove and replace ash street trees impacted by emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that feeds on and kills ash trees. The City will replant one tree for every ash street tree removed as part of the program.  Beginning in […]

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Mayor’s Message for March 2023

Hear directly from Mayor Curt Skoog about what’s happening in our community in his March video message. This month, the mayor shares details about: Holding a mail-in ballot election in June for a dedicated sales tax to fund infrastructure maintenance, Hiring lifeguards for the outdoor pool season, Downtown Overland Park’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 11. […]

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Be Severe Weather Ready This Spring

Spring is nearly here, which also means the start of severe weather season. To promote diligent planning for inclement weather, the National Weather Service has designated March 6 – March 10 as Severe Weather Preparedness Week. Be safe this severe weather season by staying informed and preparing for the most common types of severe weather […]

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City to hold election for infrastructure improvements

The City of Overland Park will hold a mail-in ballot election in June for a dedicated sales tax that would fund maintenance of the city’s aging infrastructure and extend its useful life. Monday night, the City Council unanimously approved an ordinance authorizing the dedicated sales tax, known as “OP Moves.” Overland Park residents will receive […]

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Overland Park Convention Center named best small convention center

The Overland Park Convention Center has been named 2023 Best Small Convention Center in North America by EXHIBITOR Magazine, a leading industry publication honoring the best in event venues. This is the fourth year Overland Park Convention Center has won in EXHIBITOR’s special awards category since the awards inception four years ago. Convention centers throughout North America were […]

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A look back on 2022 in Overland Park

As we look ahead to 2023, let’s take time to reflect on 2022, another busy year in our community. Here are just a few highlights of the many programs, events and services the City provided this year. Visit the links in each description to learn more about any of these initiatives. January The Overland Park […]

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City Council approves 2023 strategic goals

The Overland Park City Council has formally approved a set of strategic goals for the upcoming year. City Manager Lori Curtis Luther proposed the goals to Mayor Curt Skoog and the City Council at last night’s City Council meeting.  The plan is the result of a goal-setting workshop in October, where all members of the […]

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Overland Park maintains high equality score

The City of Overland Park maintained a high Municipal Equality Index score in 2022. The Human Rights Campaign, which issues the annual scorecard examining how inclusive municipal laws, policies, and services are of LGBTQ people who live and work there, awarded Overland Park with a score of 92 out of 100 possible points. “Overland Park […]

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City Council approves nuisance party ordinance

The Overland Park City Council tonight unanimously approved a new ordinance regulating nuisance parties in the city of Overland Park.  This is an important, early step toward ensuring all neighborhoods in Overland Park continue to be peaceful for residents, and will apply to all properties, including owner-occupied homes and long- and short-term rentals. The Governing […]

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City Council approves 2023 Budget

After two different public hearings and hearing from residents, Overland Park’s governing body passed the City’s 2023 Budget. The 2023 Budget focuses on continuing to provide primary services, addressing inflationary pressures and continuing to address security in technology operations. The $374.4 million budget is a 14.3% increase over the City’s 2022 Budget. Mill levy stays […]

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