November 2020 TownTalk

WARMEST

FOR A GENEROUS pg. 3 • SAFE pg. 16 & 18 FOOD-FILLED pg. 14 • FUN-FILLED pg. 20 ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY pg. 5 & 17 HEALTHY pg. 22 • ACTIVE pg. 24

HAPPY

In this issue NOVEMBER 2020 • ISSUE FIVE

3 Warmth Trees • Holiday hours 4 Wayside horns On the cover: From the fountain outside the Rec Center to the trees along 87th Street Parkway, City staff work hard to make the Lenexa civic campus extra-festive each holiday season.

5 Rental inspections • Holiday tree recycling • Alarm system registration 6 Snow removal tips 7 Street name stories

CONTACT US City Hall 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7500 17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 913.477.7725 AskComDevel@lenexa.com Building permits, licenses (business, pet, rental, etc.), code violations, new development, engineering, right of way, traffic management, planning, zoning CITY ADMINISTRATION CityClerk@lenexa.com HUMAN RESOURCES HumanResources@lenexa.com COMMUNICATIONS Communications@lenexa.com Parks & Recreation Programs and classes, festivals and events, park maintenance, facility and shelter rentals, pools (see pg. 24 for facility hours and locations) 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7100 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

8 Training police officers 9 Police Chief Hongslo announces retirement Police Department Crime prevention and incident response, police reports, animal control, traffic safety, vacation house watch, school resource officers 913.477.7301 (non-emergency) 12500 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

10 New pet license benefits

Fire Department Fire prevention and incident response, burn permits, first aid training, fire extinguisher training, fire inspections 913.888.6380 (non-emergency) Administrative office: 9620 Pflumm Rd.

18 Holiday season security

Municipal Court Pay a ticket, court record search, victims’ rights 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7600 12400 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Municipal Services Street repair and maintenance, street lights, snow and ice removal, stormwater drainage 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday 913.477.7880 7700 Cottonwood St.

TownTalk is published six times a year by the City of Lenexa. Please send questions or comments to communications@lenexa.com. Lenexa.com/TownTalk 2

TOWNTALK

11 Planning 101 14 Entertaining with our Public Market merchants 16 Holiday fire safety 17 Curbside composting 19 Arts in Lenexa 20 Bikeshare program • Upcoming events 21 Holiday Farmers Markets 22 Stay fit and healthy • 2021 pool passes 23 Summer job openings 24 Recreation Program Guide

Stay up to date Sign up for a variety of e-newsletters that interest you: Lenexa.com/ENews

Give a helping hand – or glove — this holiday season This has been a difficult year for many in our community, and staying warm is a basic need that you can easily and inexpensively help provide for our neighbors in need.

Throughout the month of December, you can hang mittens, gloves, socks, hats and scarves on warmth trees at these locations: • Lenexa City Hall • Lenexa Rec Center • Lenexa Police Station

Thanksgiving Day: Nov. 26

Proceeds will go to the Shawnee Mission School District clothing store and other local charities.

The City of Lenexa’s employee We Care Committee organizes warmth trees at City facilities each holiday season to benefit local charities.

While the group has pared down the number of collection sites due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the need for donations is great.

with others; just bring items you purchased or made and hang them on a tree,” said City Clerk Jennifer Martin, who organized the drive with the We Care Committee. “Whether you give a handmade hat or a dozen pairs of mittens, your gift is warmly appreciated.”

“You can donate any time these locations are open to avoid contact

Christmas Eve: Dec. 24

New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31

City offices closed Lenexa Rec Center closed Lenexa Public Market closed

City offices open regular hours Rec Center open 5 a.m.–4 p.m.

Public Market open 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

City offices open regular hours Rec Center open 5 a.m.–4 p.m.

Public Market open 7 a.m.–4 p.m.

Day after Thanksgiving : Nov. 27

Christmas: Dec. 25

New Year’s Day: Jan. 1

City offices closed Rec Center open 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Public Market open regular hours

City offices closed Rec Center closed Public Market closed

City offices closed Rec Center open 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Public Market open regular hours

HAPPY HEALTHY HOLIDAYS

Make an effort to protect yourself and those around you. The Centers for Disease Control recommends you maintain good social distance of at least 6 feet, wear a cloth face covering in public places, wash your hands frequently and avoid large gatherings.

Be patient, flexible and kind as we all navigate this unusual season together.

Stay home if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 or influenza or have been in contact with someone who is sick.

COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle pain, sore throat, loss of taste or smell and chills.

TOWNTALK

3

Photo by Reba Matlock

WAYSIDE HORN PROJECT MOVING FORWARD The Lenexa City Council took several actions at its October 6 meeting that will allow construction of wayside train horns in Old Town to be completed by summer 2021.

History of the horns

The City of Lenexa has been working with BNSF Railway since mid-2018 to install wayside horns at the railroad crossings at Pflumm Road and Noland Road. Noise from passing trains has long been an issue for the 1,200 residents and businesses who live within a halfmile of these crossings.

Wayside horns are stationary horns at railroad crossings which emit a targeted sound that reduces noise pollution in neighborhoods. They would reduce noise to an acceptable level at a much lower cost than the installation of a Quiet Zone, which would likely cost more than $2 million.

Once staff and the City Council received overwhelmingly positive feedback from business owners and residents at a wayside horn test in May 2018, $350,000 in funding was approved to install wayside horns at both Old Town intersections.

4

TOWNTALK

The City continued contract negotiations through 2019 with BNSF to install the horns. Both BNSF and the City would have to approve a contract and then complete different phases of the construction.

allow for the project budget increase and approved changes orders for the increased costs associated with each intersection. Construction can now move forward.

Project costs increased

On Oct. 5, BNSF notified City staff that once all the contracts are finalized, they will complete the track and equipment upgrades within 180 days. The City’s contractor will then need about two weeks to install the horns.

In February 2020, the City Council authorized the Mayor to sign an agreement with BNSF to install the wayside horns.

When BNSF submitted its signed agreement Sept. 4, 2020, it notified City staff that due to the age of the existing system, substantial upgrades would need to be made to the crossing equipment. These costs would add about $190,000 to the cost of the project. The City’s request to share the cost of these upgrades was denied.

At its Oct. 6 meeting, the City Council adopted a resolution to amend the City’s 2020-2024 Capital Improvement Program budget to

Next steps

You’ll still hear train horns for a short period of time after the wayside horns are operational. During a 30day trial period, the wayside horns and train horns will both sound to ensure the new system is working.

Once this period is complete, Old Town will enjoy only the quieter sound of the wayside horns when a train travels through the neighborhood.

Green up the holidays by recycling your tree

Photo by John Beddall

starting soon

RENTAL LICENSING INSPECTIONS Lenexa Community Standards employees are ready to begin rental property inspections over the next few months.

Lenexa’s rental licensing and inspection program was adopted and implemented in 2008 to help preserve the city’s neighborhoods.

Any time a home or a room is offered for rent, a rental license is required annually (some exemptions apply). Licensing allows the city to perform complete exterior inspections and an interior inspection at a tenant’s request.

When a property is licensed, the owner is required to have a local point of contact who is responsible for the property. This helps City officials to better communicate about any issues with the property.

Rental inspections are conducted every other year, typically in late winter/early spring or more often if necessary. Some things

Remember to register your alarm system

our inspectors look for during an inspection include: • All exterior components of the home (including roofs, garages, sheds, fences, siding, stairs and foundations) are in good repair and structurally sound.

• Illegal outdoor storage of items not manufacted for outdoor use.

• Trash and recycling bins are stored behind the building line or in the garage.

• Address numbers are posted in the proper location and are visible from the street.

• Vehicles — including inoperable vehicles, boats, RVs and trailers — are parked in the appropriate locations.

Visit Lenexa.com/YourHome to view our complete licensing checklist and learn more. For questions, contact Community Standards at 913.477.7500.

‘Tis the time of year to plan ahead about what to do with your natural holiday tree after packing away the seasonal décor. Don’t send it to the landfill. Real trees are biodegradable, and recycling them is a gift that keeps on giving.

Drop-off: Residents can drop off natural holiday trees, wreaths and garlands at the Little Mill Creek North Park parking lot, 79th and Cottonwood streets, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 26 through Jan. 10. Please remove all decorations, nails and plastic bags.

The City of Lenexa will mulch this greenery for use on trails and in landscaping, and to improve fish habitat in local parks. For more information, contact Landscape Supervisor Curt Talken at ctalken@ lenexa.com.

Pickup: We are partnering with local Boy Scout Troop 136 for its annual holiday tree pickup service. Trees will be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.

The service is available on the following dates starting at 9 a.m.: • • • •

Saturday, Dec. 26 Sunday, Dec. 27 Saturday, Jan. 2 Sunday, Jan. 3

Visit Troop136.org to schedule your pickup. The Scouts request a minimum $10 donation.

All alarm systems in Lenexa – for both businesses and residents – are required to be registered annually. This helps emergency services to appropriately respond to alarms and helps reduce the number of false alarms. If the Police or Fire departments respond to your alarm and the system isn’t registered, you will be fined.

Registering your alarm is free at CryWolfServices.com/LenexaKS. If you have questions, contact Cry Wolf Services at 866.889.2362 or lenexaks@publicsafetycorp.com.

TOWNTALK

5

Photo by Wendy Delzeit

SNOW SEASON

is here again. Brush up on how we take care of snow removal and how you can help.

Advice for shoveling your driveway Windrows are a frustrating but unavoidable part of the snow removal process. They occur when snow plow trucks push a pile of snow against the curb and in front of your driveway when removing snow from the center of the road.

You can help reduce the size of windrows by shoveling an inlet on the right side of your driveway and piling the removed snow on the left. This allows much of the windrow to be pushed into the inlet.

If you aren’t able to do this before the plow drives past, make sure you clear the windrow quickly before the snow refreezes and becomes difficult to move.

Photo by Bill Harrison

On the road If you can, stay home and give crews time to clear the streets — especially when precipitation is still falling.

Give snow plows plenty of space.

Stay at least 30 feet (or about four car lengths) behind the truck so the driver can see you. If you can’t see the driver in their mirrors, they can’t see you.

Avoid passing or driving alongside snow plow and salt spreader trucks.

6

TOWNTALK

Never shovel snow back into the street — it will likely end right back in your driveway when the plow passes by again. Scoop snow to the sides of your driveway.

Homes are filled with potential fire-starters in the winter, including heaters, Christmas trees, holiday decorations and fireplaces. If there’s a fire hydrant on your property (which includes the area near the street), shovel it out so firefighters can quickly reach it in the event of an emergency at your home or a neighbor’s house.

Prevent property damage Curb locations can be difficult to see in deep or drifting snow. To help our drivers prevent lawn damage, place a survey flag behind the back of the curb. They’re available at many hardware stores and online retailers.

Keep snowmen and snow forts away from the curb, and don’t build them on snow banks on the edge of the road. Plows often return to push snow further back on the curb.

Always park your vehicle in your driveway — not in the street — during a snow event, and remove structures like portable basketball goals.

Obstacles in the road slow down snow removal.

How we tackle snow removal Winter storms are unique. The density and depth of snow, temperatures before and after the storm, winds and equipment and staffing availability (especially during a pandemic) all impact the amount of time it takes to clear our roads.

First we clear major streets with high traffic volumes to enable safe access for emergency services. Lower traffic neighborhood streets are plowed afterward.

It’s our goal to have snow and ice cleared from city streets within 48 hours of the storm’s end.

During winter weather events, you can find periodic updates on our street treatment progress at Lenexa.com/Snow and our social media accounts.

If after 48 hours following the storm you believe your street was missed, call 913.477.7880.

STORIES BEHIND STREET NAMES Article courtesy of the Lenexa Historical Society If we pay attention, history can warn us. But happily, it can also inspire us.

The stories behind any of Lenexa’s street names can do just that: inspire.

The first territorial governor of Kansas, Andrew Reeder, has a northeast Lenexa street named in his honor: Reeder Street.

William Lackman built the beautiful Victorian home which currently houses the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce at College Boulevard and Lackman Road.

Lingle Lane is named for Johnna Lingle, Lenexa’s first female mayor. She later became a Johnson County commissioner.

Bluejacket Street is named for Charles Bluejacket, a Shawnee Indian who came to Kansas in 1832 and became a highly respected Methodist minister.

Caenen Lake Road is named for Remi Caenen, a farmer, stockman and home developer who came from Belgium as a baby. He built the imposing Caenen Castle at Johnson Drive and Caenen Street in Shawnee.

Photo by Joe Quinn

Alden Road is named for William Alden, who donated land for the Greenwood School.

Gillette Street is named after H.D. Gillette, who started Lenexa’s first blacksmith shop. He came to Lenexa one year after its 1869 platting.

Renner Boulevard is named for Adam and Anna Renner, farmers who arrived in Johnson County 11 years before Kansas became the 34th state and 146 years before Lenexa City Center was envisioned along the boulevard bearing their name.

Bradshaw Drive is named for Charles Bradshaw, one of Lenexa’s founders. He and his wife Sarah owned 160 acres at the northwest corner of 95th Street and Noland Road. Lenexa’s original town site was carved from their property.

While we’re on the subject of names: According to an 1892 Olathe Mirror news article, Lenexa was supposed to have been named Trenton after Bradshaw’s hometown in Illinois. Of course, that did not happen, and our town has a truly unique name.

TOWNTALK

7

HOW WE TRAIN LENEXA POLICE RECRUITS WITH NO PRIOR LAW ENFORCEMENT EXPERIENCE FIELD TRAINING PROGRAM

15 weeks

The final and most advanced phase of training is the Field Training Officer Program (FTO).

POLICE ACADEMY

16 weeks

PRE-ACADEMY ORIENTATION

2–3 weeks

All recruits start with preacademy training and orientation instructed

by Lenexa officers. This establishes baseline skills to benefit the recruit going into the police academy, including geography of Lenexa, physical conditioning, and basic firearms. Recruits are also issued uniforms and equipment during this time.

Next, recruits attend the Johnson County Regional Police Academy, located on the Johnson County Community College campus. Here, they learn about topics including law, defensive tactics, interview skills, emergency vehicle operations, report-writing and firearms. Recruits also participate in many scenario-based exercises with experienced officers acting as role players and instructors grading their handling of the scenarios.

Upon graduation from the Police Academy, the recruit is now a certified Kansas law enforcement officer.

POST-ACADEMY TRAINING 4–5 weeks

After graduating from the academy, our newly certified officers have inhouse training with Lenexa police instructors. Topics include advanced firearms tactics, defensive tactics such as weapon retention, advanced patrol tactics such as active shooter response and orientation to specialized units such as K-9, traffic, dispatch and investigations.

This phase ends with 1-2 days of scenario-based training where all previous training will be put to the test during simulated traffic stops and calls for service involving role players.

Each new officer is paired with a training officer to form a two-person patrol unit. These teams are assigned daily to one of our patrol districts and conduct traffic stops, crash investigations and other calls for service.

During field training, new officers will spend time on all three of our patrol shifts (days, evenings and nights). They receive daily evaluations and feedback to ensure that they are succcessfully progressing through the FTO program.

New officers aren’t expected to know everything from the start.

They’re provided with training and resources to gradually learn the basic role of a Lenexa police officer.

LATERAL TRANSFER OFFICERS New hires who are already certified as police officers in another jurisdiction may complete an abbreviated version our training program, depending on the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center’s (KLETC) determination of the officer’s initial training academy requirements. KLETC makes this determination on a case-by-case basis.

8

TOWNTALK

Lateral officers will complete 4-5 weeks of in-house training to learn policies and practices specific to the Lenexa Police Department. They then enter the Field Training Officer Program. Officers who demonstrate required skills and competencies may accelarate through the program more quickly than the typical 15 weeks and be released to solo patrol earlier.

OFFICERS JoinLenexaPD.com

SOLO PATROL Upon successful completion of all phases of training and at the recommendation of the FTO supervisor, new officers are released to solo patrol and assigned to one of the patrol shifts.

At this point, the new officer training is over and the officer is expected to handle calls for service and police activities independently.

Of course, we rely on teamwork a lot!

Collaboration with shiftmates to problem-solve is something we encourage and practice regularly.

CHIEF HONGSLO CAPS OFF CAREER WITH REGIONAL HONORS Lenexa Chief of Police Thomas Hongslo recently was awarded the prestigious Clarence M. Kelley award shortly before announcing his intent to retire in December 2020.

Hongslo was named this year’s award recipient for excellence as a law enforcement executive by the Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission. The award — named for respected former Kansas City, Missouri, Police Chief and FBI Director Clarence Kelly — recognizes an active law enforcement executive who is an excellent administrator, proactive in their approach and dedicated to improving the criminal justice system.

As Lenexa’s police chief, Hongslo has a long record of implementing enhancements to better his department. Under Hongslo’s leadership, the Lenexa Police Department adopted new strategies for safety and mental health crises, promoted use-of-force education, expanded special units in the department and made recruiting quality officers a top priority. He also served leadership roles on several law enforcement boards and committees.

When Hongslo retires in December, he will have served as Lenexa’s chief of police for eight years and worked in law enforcement for 31 years. He marked his 25th year with the Lenexa Police Department in October, having started at the organization in 1995 as a patrol officer. He then became a K-9 handler and progressed through the ranks to become chief of police in 2012.

“Chief Thomas Hongslo is a dedicated public servant who cares deeply about his department, the City organization and the community we serve,” said Lenexa City Manager Beccy Yocham.

“His accomplishments and the impacts of his leadership will be felt for years to come. This community owes him a debt of gratitude for his decades of outstanding service.”

TOWNTALK

9

Paw-sitive changes

are coming to Lenexa’s pet licensing program When pet owners purchase their 2021 animal licenses, they’ll get some new benefits to give them peace of mind and help their furry family members return home sooner if they become lost.

The City of Lenexa is now partnering with PetHub to provide digital pet ID tags for licensed animals. If your pet becomes lost, anyone who finds your pet can use the QR code or the number for a 24/7 lost pet call center on the tag to report that they’ve found your pet.

Each PetHub tag links to a free online profile that you can set up to help your pet get home faster.

According to data from PetHub, 98% of pets recovered through their service get home before they enter a shelter.

Another added benefit of the new tags: their epoxy coating makes them durable and prevents the jangling sound of multiple pet tags.

10

TOWNTALK

Renew or sign up for your pet license

Pet licenses are required annually for all cats and dogs age 6 months and older in Lenexa and expire on Dec. 31 of each year. Renewal notices are mailed in early to mid-November.

To register or renew your license, go to PetData.com. You’ll need to have a copy of your pet’s current rabies vaccination certificate ready to upload.

Fees are $12/year per spayed or neutered dog or cat and $22 for other dogs and cats. If your pet is found without a license, you could get a ticket.

Set up your PetHub account

Once you have your new pet tag, go to PetHub.com to set up your pet’s free online profile. It includes information such as their name, breed, age, medications, allergies, your contact info and more.

The free basic membership provided with your tag also includes access to the 24/7 lost pet call center, a lost pet poster template and a library of petrelated articles.

You can sign up for a more robust PetHub subscription for a fee. This membership level includes automatic notifications when someone shares your pet’s tag and a GPS map showing their location, plus other benefits.

For more information, go to PetHub.com.

Helpful notes for pet owners • You need to apply for a special pet permit if you’d like more than two dogs and/or two cats at your residence.

• Lenexa doesn’t restrict animal ownership based on breeds.

PLANNING 101 Residents and business owners are often passionate about how the property around them is used, but understanding how zoning, land use and the planning approval process works can be intimidating.

On the next few pages, we’ve illustrated the basics of how the planning process works and addressed some of the most frequent questions we receive.

WHAT ROLE DOES ZONING PLAY IN OUR COMMUNITY PLANNING PROCESS AND HOW PROPERTY IS USED? Each property in the City is assigned a zoning classification that determines how development can occur. Zoning regulations include a list of uses that are allowed and other rules such as maximum height, minimum setbacks and number of units per lot. Zoning can be seen as the “instruction manual” for carrying out the vision of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and future land use map. It helps growth to occur in a well-managed way that complements the surrounding uses.

YES

EXAMPLE: RP-1, Planned Residential SingleFamily (Low-Density) Zoning District In an RP-1 District, these uses are allowed by right. Regulations still apply for each use, and some may be subject to supplementary use regulations.

• Single-family home

• Daycare, limited

• Manufactured home, subject to architectural design standards

• Group homes

NEVER

SOMETIMES

• Churches or places of worship

• Public parks

A few additional uses are allowed in RP-1 with a special use permit. These are required for uses that need additional analysis of whether they will be compatible with the surrounding uses and is dependent on the proposed location and its surroundings. They’re often approved for a specific period of time, and they must be approved by both the Planning Commission and the City Council. Uses allowed with a special use permit in RP-1 are: • Cemeteries

• Public safety services

• Cultural services

• Schools, elementary and secondary

• Daycares, general

• Utilities

• Large wind energy conservation systems

• Wireless communications facilities

Any other use is not permitted in this zoning district. In order to put a warehouse, gas station or supermarket in this neighborhood, a developer would have to apply to rezone the property.

Basics of Planning Commission The Planning Commission is responsible for reviewing and recommending planning and zoning issues to the City Council. They’re charged with protecting the public health, safety and welfare of the city.

The Commission can approve some applications, while other types must have final approval from the City Council.

As is the case with all Lenexa’s volunteer boards and commissions, the nine members of the Planning Commission are appointed by the mayor with the consent of the City Council.

They typically meet at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of the month in the Community Forum at Lenexa City Hall. You can sign up to receive copies of the Planning Commission packet (which outlines the items being considered at the next meeting) and action agenda (which summarizes actions taken at the latest meeting) at Lenexa.com/ENews.

Find useful resources like a list of land uses, the Comprehensive Plan and future land use map at Lenexa.com/Planning.

TOWNTALK

11

HOW DOES THE PLANNING PROCESS WORK? This flowchart shows how a rezoning and concept/ preliminary plan proposal moves through the planning process. This is one of the more procedurally complex issues the Planning Commission addresses. Rezoning also often attracts a lot of attention from neighbors. The Agricultural zoning district was considered a “holding zone” for large empty parcels when they were first annexed by the City. As a result, developers are often seeking to rezone Agricultural

property into a zoning type that will accommodate a large development like a subdivision or commercial district.

All applications for rezoning must be accompanied by a concept or preliminary plan. This saves the developer and City time and money by not having to apply for and review these interconnected items separately.

PRE-APPLICATION CONFERENCE

Development proposals are not solicited by the Planning Commission or City staff; rather, developers and property owners submit development proposals to the Planning Commission. The developer typically kicks off this process by meeting with Community Development staff to present a conceptual plan for their development.

STAFF REVIEW

Once an application is formally submitted, City staff first check the plans for completeness and assesses fees. The concept or preliminary plans are reviewed by a team that includes staff from the Police and Fire Departments and the Engineering, Traffic, Building Inspection and Planning divisions of the Community Development Department.

Staff is responsible for ensuring development proposals comply with maximum density, provide enough parking and open space, don’t exceed the maximum height allowance and are set back the required distances from property lines. Staff also looks at the design of the buildings.

After reviewing the plans, staff sends their comments to the developer for them to address and submit revised plans.

PUBLIC NOTICES

COMMON QUESTION: How do I know which specific businesses are coming to the proposed development?

Sometimes, the developer knows the specific type of business or brands that will be located in their development.

However, as part of submitting an application to the Planning Commission, they are not required to reveal the eventual tenant. In multi-tenant buildings or developments consisting of numerous buildings, it’s less likely the developer knows who all of the tenants will be at the time of application.

For all rezoning applications, the applicant must mail a notice of public hearing — supplied by the City — to all property owners within 200 feet of the project’s property line. These notices must go out at least 20 days before the hearing date via certified mail. They also must post a notification sign so it’s visible from the public street. The City posts a public notice in its official paper of record.

12

TOWNTALK

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING

During a Planning Commission meeting, the applicant makes a presentation first, followed by a staff presentation analyzing the project.

Members of the public are then invited to provide input during a public hearing. Speakers are asked to provide their name and address for the public record. Depending on the number of people who want to speak on a particular item, the chairman may limit the length of comments.

Public hearings are required for rezoning and special use permit application, but not other items. The chairman will typically still allow public comment for items that don’t require a public hearing.

Members of the public can also submit written comments via letter or email to the Planning Commission. These are entered into the Planning Commission packet if received in time or distributed to commissioners at the meeting or the day of the meeting.

After closing the public hearing, the Planning Commission will discuss the proposal. They may ask additional questions of the applicant and/or City staff. One of the commissioners will make a motion, and other will second the motion. The chairman will call for a vote, which is usually a voice vote by affirmation. The Commission isn’t voting to approve or deny the applications — they’re voting on a recommendation for the City Council to approve or deny.

PROTEST PERIOD

COMMON QUESTION: Why do projects the neighbors don’t like get approved?

For rezoning applications, a 14-day protest period begins after the Planning Commission public hearing. During this time, a petition protesting the zoning change can be filed with the city clerk.

It must be signed and notarized by 20% or more of the property owners in the required notification area. If a valid petition is filed, then 3/4 of the Governing Body members must vote to approve the rezoning in order for it to be adopted.

While members of the public have the opportunity to provide input on proposals, the Planning Commission and City Council take many issues into consideration. Rezoning and special use permits are evaluated based on criteria found in the Unified Development Code, including the character of the neighborhood, zoning of the properties nearby, conformance to the Comprehensive Plan, adequacy of utilities and impact on the environment and street network.

CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION

Rezoning property, approving special use permits and concept/preliminary plans are all considered by the City Council at its regular meetings, held the first and third Tuesday of each month in the Community Forum. While another public hearing isn’t required for these applications, the mayor will typically allow public comment. The City Council can vote one of three ways:

Approve

The City Council can approve the rezoning application in whole or in part, with or without modification and approve the concept/preliminary plan in whole or in part, with or without modification and conditions.

Remand

The City Council also has the option to remand the application back to the Planning Commission.

When this happens, the Governing Body provides specific direction regarding what the Planning Commission should consider. Often, the developer changes something relative to the development proposal. This change may happen between the Planning Commission and City Council meeting, or it may be a result of feedback and direction given by the mayor and City Council.

Deny

If the zoning request is denied, the application cannot be resubmitted for one year. This rule does not apply to concept/preliminary and final plan applications.

If a public hearing was required when the Planning Commission first considered the application, it is not required as part of the remand. However, the Commission may allow additional public comment at the meeting.

FINAL PLAN Once the rezoning and preliminary plan are approved, the developer must submit a final plan. The final plan is reviewed by the staff review team, which submits comments that must be addressed.

The Planning Commission often reviews the final plan during its regularly scheduled meeting and can choose to approve the plan in whole or in part, with or without modifications,

or deny the application. Based on the zoning classification of the property, the final plan may not require Planning Commission approval.

The final plan does not have to be sent to the City Council for approval unless requested by two or more City Council members or the city manager.

Once final plan approval is received, the developer can apply for permits to start construction.

TOWNTALK

13

IE D

ing

rt ain

NT

S

ial ingredients for – c e p s –

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING e N I t L E GR

n e y a d i for hol SPECIA

As 2020 comes to a close, celebrating with sprawling turkey dinner buffets and houses packed to the rafters with party guests is probably not a good idea. But that doesn’t mean you’re in for a humdrum holiday season. Take it from the small business owners at the Lenexa Public Market — smaller celebrations can be extra special!

They also bring the focus of the season back to family, close friends and food.

Our merchants shared what they’re thankful for this year, some expert entertaining advice and their recommendations for memorable meals and gifts.

Kelly Acock

Rob Arnold

The Flower Market

We Got Your Back Apparel

Grateful for: For the Flower Market, we were able to find our permanent home at 13426 Santa Fe Trail Dr. in Lenexa next to so many fun businesses! Renovating has some major challenges, but we are thrilled to be more a part of the Lenexa community and be closer to the Public Market.

Thankful for: His health and the health of his family and friends.

Embrace new and old traditions: For smaller in-home gatherings during the holidays, it’s all about keeping and maybe creating a few new traditions this year!

The small special things are what creates the memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s a special coffee together, a favorite dish, matching T-shirts, a funny tea towel you can giggle over or a Pickwick candle burning, make memories!

Share the love with local products: Pickwick candles are our number one seller! They are a locally sourced product and last for 60 hours. The holiday scents are so fabulous and really set the mood.

We will be getting in the Home Sweet MaHomes scent soon for the holidays. Go Chiefs! We also have KC towels, locally sourced socks and other items. We love KC! 14

TOWNTALK

Cheerful check-ins: Even when you can’t meet in person, use Zoom and Facetime as much as possible.

Check up on people that you don’t see in person anymore, just to make sure they are doing well.

Fan favorite gifts: We Got Your Back Apparel has something for every fan — not just sports, but movies, TV shows and more.

Family favorite dish: He recommends cooking creamed corn for the holidays. It’s a staple item in his family dinners — Rob uses a recipe passed down from his grandmother.

Sohaila Humayon Sohaila’s Kitchen

Thankful for: Definitely our personal health and all the support from our customers and for helping us keep open. Family (including daughter Amna, pictured at left) coming in town for the holidays.

Stay safe: Fortunately, we don’t have to wear masks at home. Keep it limited to immediate family members. Be safe when you go out.

Cozy carryout option: Butter chicken is an ideal dish for winter with warm spices and flavors. We also offer catering.

Ale de la Fuente Red Kitchen

I am thankful for the support and loyalty of my customers. Of course I am thankful to have my family with me too.

Serve up memories: I always like to bring the food that they enjoy the most and let them know what memories I have with that food, or hear what they

remember when they tried it for the first time or last time they ate it. That brings good memories to them like a good song.

I was also thinking of make small albums with family or friends with pictures where we are all happy and together to remind them that they are not alone, they are loved and important for me. A lot of people are going through depression or feel lonely.

I think it is a good idea to reach out to those people with pictures, memories and future plans to have a reason to be happy.

Flavorful gifts for now and later: I love to make pozole and tamales. Both are hearty foods, and tamales will keep in the freezer for a later time. I also like to give a bag of Caramelo tortillas and salsa that people can make their own breakfast burritos with.

Katie Liu Sung Chewology

Grateful for the community: a consistent group of guests that continued to support our business both in business and emotionally, just cheering us up with chatting, and support. They feel like extended family.

Quick tip: Plan your meal with pre-prepped dishes, so at the time the most you want to do is have to heat stuff up.

Easy gift idea: Chewology offers gift cards, so you can treat someone to the gift of gyoza.

Kate Smith

Kate Smith Soirée and — coming soon — Butterfield’s Bakery and Market We are so thankful for the opportunity to spend quality time with our family and the community continuing to support us and keep us going strong!

Food-focused festivities: Intimate gatherings can be even more special than a big holiday party! With any gathering, food is the one thing people get the most excited about. Make sure you make all of the family favorites to make it an extra-special occasion. Hosting family? Ask them to bring their must-have holiday dish!

Finishing touch: Every good meal ends with dessert! We will have a variety of holiday desserts available for pre-order. Check out our website for more info! www.KateSmithSoiree.com

Chad Talbott Topp’d Pizza

I’m thankful for the outpouring of support from our regular customers, and everyone that has been coming back in just to support local. I think that people understand deep down what small businesses are going through and want to help.

Keep your holidays simple. Rediscover that the season is more about the importance of the contact you have in life. This is a great time to reflect on ourselves and not get caught up in the commercialized aspects of our society. We have been given a stressful year, let’s not stress ourselves out more!

Easy as (pizza) pie: We make all of our food from scratch to order. I would suggest grabbing curbside takeout for your family from us or buying a few gift cards!

8750 Penrose Ln. | See website for Market and individual merchant hours | LENEXAPUBLICMARKET.COM TOWNTALK

15

Serve up fire safety at your holiday meals!

The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.

Did you know cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, and Thanksgiving is the leading day for fires involving cooking equipment? Use these tips from the Lenexa Fire Department and the National Fire Prevention Association for safer holiday meal preparation.

Test your smoke detectors.

Properly working smoke detectors are critical for keeping you safe in the kitchen and throughout your home. Make sure you always have replacement batteries available.

Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food.

Always keep a lid nearby when cooking.

If a small grease fire starts, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Leave the pan covered until it’s cool.

Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop.

This includes towels and loose clothing, which can hang down onto stove burners and catch fire.

Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.

16

TOWNTALK

If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly and stay in the home.

Have a “kidfree” zone of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared and carried.

Composting: A gift that keeps giving for your garden, your trash container and the environment With so much food waste going into the trash each holiday season, it’s a great time to start composting. Now, two local companies can help you responsibly dispose of both your sweet potato peels and those unsightly turkey scraps at a reduced rate!

The City of Lenexa has negotiated a 30% discount with curbside compost collectors Compost Collective KC and Food Cycle KC through Dec. 31, 2021, to encourage residents to recycle organic materials — which, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, accounts for more than half the waste sent to landfills.

Both companies will provide you a bucket to hold your compostable items, and you can sign up to have your compost collected weekly or every other week. These services will either clean and replace the liner or provide you a new bucket at each pickup.

In a home compost mix, aim for a 2:1 ratio of “browns” to “greens.”

Browns like leaves are sources of carbon, while greens like pumpkins provide nitrogen.

Your waste will be turned into a rich soil that will be used by area farms and community gardens. You can also get compost back for your own garden!

If you’re already composting at home, this is a great way to supplement your efforts. These services will accept items you wouldn’t compost at home like meat scraps and dairy. If you’re interested in starting a home compost pile, the Johnson County K-State Extension Office has many great resources to help you get started at Johnson.K-State.edu.

Start curbside compost service Compost Collective KC CompostCollectiveKC.com Food Cycle KC FoodCycleKC.com

What can I compost?

These are some of the items you can compost through Compost Collective KC and Food Cycle KC. See their websites for a complete list.

• Fruits and vegetables • Plants and vegetation • Coffee grounds (leave out plastic coffee pods) • Meat/fish (cooked) • Dairy • Newspapers • Egg cartons • Pizza boxes • Eggshells • Food-soiled paper like paper towels and napkins • Table scraps • Hair (animal and human)

Never compost: • Pet and animal waste • Foil/metal • Plastic • Styrofoam

Don’t put meat in your compost bin at home — it can attract wild animals and insects. Cooked meat and deli meat can be recycled by a compost service. Have raw scraps on hand? Microwave them before putting them in your bucket.

• Glass • Poisonous, diseased or insect-infested plants • Painted or treated wood

TOWNTALK

17

N SO A SE S XA T Y E P I A EN MEN ID TY T L L HE ART HO URI T P C SE OM E DE R F LIC PO

Don’t get left out in the cold!

On chilly days, you may be tempted to start your vehicle and head back inside to let it warm up for a few minutes. During cold-weather months, that’s exactly what car thieves are looking for!

These thieves are known to troll neighborhoods, apartment complexes and convenience stores, particularly during morning hours, looking for cars left running unattended. Don’t lose your car for a few minutes of warmth! Stay with your vehicle, or install a remote start system in which the keys are not left in a running vehicle.

Note that Kansas law prohibits vehicles from being left unattended unless a remote start system is being used in which the doors are locked and the keys are not inside the vehicle.

Smarter online shopping This holiday season, more people than ever may be doing their shopping online. While shopping from the comfort of your own home is convenient, keep these tips in mind to minimize your chances of being victimized by thieves: • Only shop with reputable vendors or those you’ve used before. Stores with brick-and-mortar locations or well-known sites like Amazon are usually a safe bet.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi when making purchases or doing online banking. Hackers have the ability to steal info such as credit card and bank account numbers that are being transmitted over public Wi-Fi. • When making an online purchase, check the website security by looking for the padlock icon at the start of the web address or ensuring that the web address begins with “https.” Those indicate that the website has security measures in place to help make the transaction more secure.

• Monitor your credit card and banking statements regularly for fraudulent charges. During the holiday season, get online weekly to view your transactions for any unauthorized purchases. If you notice something amiss, notify your financial institution immediately.

• When receiving online deliveries, take them inside as soon as you can, or have a trusted neighbor pick them up from your porch. Better yet, if possible, have the packages delivered to your workplace.

VACATION HOUSE WATCH PROGRAM The holiday season is quickly approaching! If you’re traveling out of town, sign up for our Vacation House Watch Program. While you’re away, Lenexa Police Department personnel will periodically check around the outside of your home for any signs of suspicious activity. If we find anything amiss, we’ll take appropriate action and notify you. Simply fill out the Vacation House Watch form at Lenexa. com/Police a few days before you plan to leave town.

18

TOWNTALK

TOWNTALK

15

CITY HALL ART GALLERY SHOWS The Lenexa Arts Council curates rotating 2D and 3D art shows at the Lenexa City Hall gallery. Shows are free and open to the public. See the latest lineup of gallery shows at Lenexa.com/ArtGallery.

Calls for artists Looking for something to do on a long winter day? Create something beautiful and enter it in an upcoming show!

HeART of Lenexa Contest entries due Dec. 31

Celebrate what you love about Lenexa through art in this annual contest. Artwork must be completed during 2020 and inspired by something you like about Lenexa. Entries will be displayed at Lenexa City Hall in February 2021. Details and application at Lenexa.com/Art.

Peace Pole exhibit design proposals due Feb. 1

Digital Dimensions On display starting Dec.1

This all-ages group of local shutterbugs gets together regularly to learn, grow and discuss photography — and they’re sharing their many talents with us in a gallery show. Thanks to the exciting range of artists and their preferred subjects, expect an entertaining medley of prints.

Sunflower Poetry Open Mics Nov. 19, Dec. 17, 6 p.m., Online via Zoom

Enjoy feats of creative wordplay on third Thursdays. Perform your own work for an audience, or sit back and appreciate the show, hosted by Poet Jen Harris. Performers and spectators must register in advance. Free.

Lenexa.com/Art

A colorful exhibit of creative and unique 3D sculptures is coming to town, and you’re invited to participate! The Peace Pole Community Art Project — a series of poles designed by community members and adorned with creative designs and messages of peace — will be exhibited in public spaces throughout Lenexa during the summer and fall of 2021.

Residents, community groups, businesses and artists are invited to submit proposed designs for the Peace Pole exhibit. A jury committee will review submissions and invite accepted entrants to decorate their pole(s) for the exhibit. Judges will select award winners, and the community will vote on a People’s Choice Award. Following the exhibit, the peace poles will be sold via auction. More details at Lenexa.com/PeacePoles.

This project is a partnership between the City of Lenexa, Lenexa Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Western Johnson County and Lenexa Arts Council.

High School Student Art Show entries due Feb. 1 High school artists in any school district are invited to apply for a juried art show featuring 2D and 3D art. Students can submit up to three pieces and must have an art teacher co-sponsor their entries. Artwork will be exhibited at Lenexa City Hall in March 2021. Details and application at Lenexa.com/Art.

TOWNTALK

19

Head outdoors for seasonal diversions

NEW PROGRAM

Explore Lenexa with our bikeshare service Through late November; bikes will return in spring

Take a break from your busy schedule with an invigorating ride in the brisk autumn breeze on one of Lenexa’s new rentable E-bikes.

The City of Lenexa has partnered with BikeWalkKC’s RideKC Bike program to offer electric-assist bikes – also known as E-bikes – at several city parks and locations.

You’ll find Lenexa’s hubs at: • • • • • •

Black Hoof Park (two hubs) Lenexa civic campus Central Green Park Little Mill Creek Park Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park (two hubs) Old Town Lenexa

You can also find RideKC Bike rental hubs at two local Johnson County Parks and Recreation parks: Shawnee Mission Park and Mill Creek Streamway Park.

To rent a bike, download the new RideKC Bike app and follow the directions to scan and check out the bike. Bikes are $1 to unlock and 10 cents per minute.

In late November, the bikes will be brought indoors for winter storage. They’ll be available again in spring 2021.

Photo by BikeWalkKC

For more information, go to RideKCBike.com.

Photo by Leigh Mitchell

NEW EVENT

Gallop off the food you’ve gobbled with a virtual 5K Nov. 23–27

Run or jog off that extra piece of pumpkin pie at our inaugural Lenexa Scholarship Gobbler Gallop virtual 5K. Sign up for $25 and receive a Gobbler Gallop T-shirt.

Then run or walk the race length from any location to burn off holiday meal calories, start a fun family tradition and support the Lenexa Parks and Recreation Scholarship Fund. Lenexa.com/GobblerGallop 20

TOWNTALK

LENEXA TRADITION

Stroll through the lights at Sar-Ko Aglow Dec. 4–Jan. 10, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park

Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland again this year. Dec. 4. Watch Mayor Boehm flip the ceremonial switch on Facebook Live at 6 p.m. Dec. 4. Then pick a night to pack some cocoa and spend an evening admiring this enchanting parkwide lighting display. Keep an eye on the weather forecast — the park is even more magical with a layer of fresh snow on the ground and trees.

Lenexa.com/SarKoAglow

OPEN-AIR LOCATION

Gather homegrown ingredients and homemade gifts at our Holiday Farmers Markets Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Lenexa civic campus parking garage, 17201 W. 87th St. Pwky.

High-quality ingredients and craftsmanship make holiday meals and gifts feel extraordinary. Stock up on all kinds of goodies to ensure a successful holiday season with two special shopping days featuring locally raised, grown and made products from Lenexa Farmers Market vendors.

At this year’s open-air holiday markets, you’ll find vendor stalls nestled between evergreens under the awning of the parking garage with plenty of safety precautions in place.

You can make your visit more efficient by preording some products from vendors. Visit Lenexa.com/FarmersMarket for ordering information and other details.

VENDOR

PRODUCTS

11/ 21 12/19 PREORDER

Carrie Lynn Concepts

Dip mixes and bread mixes

P

Daniel’s Bar-b-q Sauces, LLC

BBQ sauces and rubs, Primal Cry sauces, KC Creations dips

P

P

No

Hedgewood Farms, LLC

Beef, chicken, pork, farm-fresh eggs

P

P

Yes

Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery

Wine, wine accessories

P

P

Yes

Jake Creek Pecans

Pecans

P

P

Yes

P

P

Yes

P

P

Yes

P

P

Yes

P

P

Yes

P

No

Madd House Hill

Beef, pork, chicken, lamb, turkey, cheese, summer sausage, flour, eggs, potatoes, pie pumpkins, popcorn, onions, garlic Goat soap and lotions

MorningView Market Farm

Candied jalapeños

JET Produce and Meats, LLC

Yes

PawsAbilities

Honey, bee products including lotions and salves, bee pollen, jams and jellies, garlic, onions Dog treats, toys and bandanas

Rough Chop Cart

Food cart

P

P

No

Salsa Mama

Salsa and chips

P

P

Yes

P

P

Yes

P

P

No

P

No

Next to Nature Farm

Three Bears Bakery & BBQ

Holiday pies (various, preorder only), savory hand pies, muffins, cookie and candy boxes, salted caramel croissants, cookie fries, caramel and fudge sauce Low-carb/keto/diabetic-friendly baked goods, BBQ spices.

Urban Farm of Olathe

Microgreens, peppers and lettuce

P

Yummylicious Cookie Company Cookies, cheesecake, dried cookie mixes, gluten-/dairy-free options

P

There’s No Place Like Home Bakery, LLC

Yes

LEN EXA .COM /FARM ERSMARKE T TOWNTALK

21

Stay fit and healthy DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC

There is a lot to juggle during the COVID-19 pandemic, and staying active may be a real struggle to squeeze into daily life. But it’s more important than ever for our physical and mental health.

Exercising regularly, eating right and getting enough sleep all strengthen our immune systems and help fight off infection.

Many people in our community rely on Lenexa Parks & Recreation’s fitness amenities and recreation

programs for health and social benefits.

those who are ready to get moving again.

“I really enjoy working out and taking care of myself,” said Eric Kesselring. “I think it pays dividends in every area of life. I don’t know what I’d do without it.”

We’ve made many changes to how we operate facilities to minimize COVID-19 exposure for patrons and staff. Safety measures currently in place at the Rec Center include:

Darcie Bertholf depends on the Rec Center to maintain her well-being.

• Nightly operation of an electrostatic sprayer that disinfects the air and other surfaces.

“I come to the gym because it’s great for my mind and body, and it’s my release during my day so I don’t get so frustrated with my children,” said Bertholf.

• Rigorous cleaning schedules for all high-touch surfaces and equipment.

Returning to the gym safely

• Reduced capacity in active use areas, fitness classes and other programs.

Since June, the Lenexa Rec Center and Community Center have been open to the public and available for

• Physical reconfigurations to allow for social distancing.

Give the gift of summer fun with an outdoor pool pass 2021 outdoor pool passes are on sale now, and they make great gifts!

Before purchasing a pass, please keep these notes in mind: • Passes are only available to purchase for Lenexa residents. Residents cannot purchase them for non-residents. You will be asked to provide proof of residency.

• If you had a pool pass in 2020, it’s also good for the 2021 season.

Resident passes are $110 for a family, $60 for an individual and $28 for seniors.

If you had a pool pass in 2019, you can renew online at Lenexa.com/GetActive. New passes must be purchased in person at the Lenexa Rec Center.

To learn more, go to Lenexa.com/Pools and click on Pool Memberships.

22

TOWNTALK

• Face coverings are required both staff and patrons age 6 and up unless you are participating in strenuous activity.

• Temperature checks for all patrons visiting the member area.

Many people were eager to return to the gym because they missed their routines and the closeknit sense of community at the Rec Center. They appreciate the precautions taken to make them feel safe while they work out or take part in a recreation program.

“Everybody, all the staff are wearing masks and I’m equally impressed with the level of cleanliness, which is really important to me,” said Laura Hickey. “It’s visibly clean, but I also see people cleaning, and that has made me comfortable in continuing to come back.”

Carol Molloy knows it is crucial to keep an optimum fitness level as her body ages.

Taking the workout to you If you’re still wary of working out at a gym or have underlying medical conditions, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your fitness routine during the pandemic. The Rec Center can bring the gym to you in a variety of ways.

We offer virtual personal training services with certified trainers so you can get a tailored plan, accountability and one-on-one support. We also schedule virtual small group sessions that allow you to train with friends. Plus, members and nonmembers can register for a monthly Virtual Class Pass to take Group X fitness classes without having to set foot in the gym. Learn more about these options at Lenexa. com/GetActive.

Lenexa Parks & Recreation is here to support your wellness journey, wherever you are.

“I’m a senior and so I’m at the highest risk, but I feel totally safe in this facility,” said Molloy.

Photo by Bill Harrison

Apply now for fun, flexible summer jobs Looking for a summer gig to earn some extra money and get great work experience? Join our aquatics and summer camp teams! We’re hiring: • Outdoor lifeguards and cashiers for our outdoor pools. Lifeguards must be American Red Cross Lifeguard Certified. We offer free training classes — apply soon, as these fill up quickly! For questions, contact Dan Seutter at dseutter@lenexa.com.

• Caring, friendly, patient and energetic high-school and college-aged staff (ages 16+) to be counselors at our summer camps. Contact Sarah Sooter at ssooter@lenexa.com for questions.

For additional details and to apply, go to Lenexa.com/Jobs.

Photo by Wendy Delzeit

TOWNTALK

23

Registering for classes & programs Online: Lenexa.com/GetActive Fast, easy and no lines! Provides immediate enrollment confirmation.

Use the Activity Number (example: #124356) at the end of each course description to quickly find it at Lenexa.com/GetActive. Select “Search” in the top menu bar, then type the code into the Activity Number box.

RECREATION

PROGRAM GUIDE NOVEMBER 2020–EARLY JANUARY 2021

New users will create a household account listing each household member.

Walk-in: Lenexa Rec Center, 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 66219 = 10% discount for Rec Center X Pass members

Waitlist Participants who wish to register for activities where capacity enrollment has been reached will go on a waitlist. Once space becomes available, participants will be notified.

Cancellation policies All program cancellations will be determined two business days before the class is scheduled to begin. All registrations are required before the 48-hour deadline. You’ll be notified if a program has been canceled or changed. If you need to cancel, call at least five business days before the program begins. Refunds only made if cancellation does not affect minimum participant number. There will be a $5 processing fee. Refunds take 3–6 weeks and are not granted after the activity begins.

Some senior trips and programs have their own cancellation policies.

Scholarships available Lenexa Parks & Recreation offers scholarships to make memberships and programs more affordable for Lenexa residents. Visit Lenexa. com/Parks or call 913.477.7100 to learn more.

ADA accommodations The City of Lenexa is committed to making reasonable accommodations for disabled persons, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for accommodations must be made at least 10 business days prior to the activity.

Questions? Call 913.477.7100 Mon.–Fri. 8 a.m.–6 p.m. or email parksandrec@lenexa.com.

THANK YOU to the 96 teams and 192 players who participated in the inaugural Swingin’ for a Scholarship Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser Sept. 11-12! We raised $5,010 for the Lenexa Parks & Recreation Scholarship Program, which makes recreation programs and memberships more affordable for residents with a financial need.

Photo by Bill Harrison Sign up for Rainout Line to keep up with closures, cancellations and notifications.

Email/text: RainoutLine.com • Phone: 913.477.7170 Free mobile app • Program pages: Lenexa.com/Parks RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

23

LENEXA REC CENTER MEMBERSHIP RATES • Core Pass: Access to all Rec Center amenities •

Pass: Access to all Rec Center amenities, Group X fitness classes and a 10% discount on programs and services • Day Pass: Access as a Core Pass member, plus one Group X fitness class

REGULAR RATE

RESIDENT DISCOUNT

Monthly

Annual

Monthly

Annual

Adult (18–59)

$53

$583

$42

$462

Youth (12–17)

$41

$451

$33

$363

Senior (60+)

$48

$528

$38

$418

Household*

$88

$968

$70

$770

Plus 1**

$25

$275

$20

$220

Adult (18–59)

$78

$858

$62

$682

Youth (12–17)

$66

$726

$53

$583

Senior (60+)

$73

$803

$58

$638

Household*

$113

$1,243

$90

$990

$30

$330

$25

$275

CORE PASS

PASS

Plus 1** DAY PASS Single Punch card

$10 per day

$8 per day

$90 for 10 visits

$72 for 10 visits

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIPS ARE 12 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 11

Host a memorable, safe birthday party at the Rec Center!

Create lasting memories by holding your child’s next birthday party at the Lenexa Rec Center! We offer several party packages designed to ensure maximum fun for all ages. Options include pool time, various games and a private party room.

We’re currently limiting the number of parties that can happen at the same time, as well as taking other COVID-19 safety precautions. You can reserve a spot up to three months in advance.

Rec Center X Pass Members get a 10% discount on party packages.

Questions? Call 913.477.7529 or email birthdayparty@lenexa.com.

*Max of five individuals at same address (ages 3+). **Price is per person added to an adult or senior membership, or for the sixth and up person on a household membership.

•

No initiation or application fees. Memberships can be canceled with 30 days’ notice. Scholarships available.

•

Kids 2 and under are free for memberships and passes.

GROUP X FITNESS CLASSES

The Lenexa Rec Center offers around 40 drop-in Group X fitness classes each week at a variety of times to fit your schedule and preferences. See the latest schedule at Lenexa.com/GroupX. • X Pass Members: Included with membership.

• Core Pass Members: One class: $6. 10-class punch card: $45. 20-class punch card: $45.

• Nonmembers: Day pass includes one class. Additional classes: $8 each.

PARKS & RECREATION FACILITIES IN THIS ISSUE Lenexa Community Center (CC) 13420 Oak St. • 913.477.7100 Mon.–Fri.: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Lenexa Rec Center (REC)

17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy. • 913.477.PLAY (7529) Mon.–Fri.: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Sat.: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Sun: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

25

Drop-in Activities No registration is required for these recurring activities. Schedule is subject to change.

LENEXA COMMUNITY CENTER ACTIVITIES $1 UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

13420 OAK ST. / 913.477.7100 TIME

M

T

W

TH

3:30–5 p.m.

Open Gym (9th grade & over): Parents and guardians welcome. Free.

3:30–5 p.m.

•

noon–1:30 p.m.

•

noon–3:30 p.m.

Pickleball: A low-impact, high-energy doubles racket sport that blends tennis, badminton and pingpong. $2.

•

18+

•

8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

•

11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Pingpong: All equipment provided.

AGES

•

Open Gym (8th grade & under): Parents and guardians welcome. Free.

Open Gym (Adult): Enjoy a game of basketball over your lunch break. Balls provided.

F

•

11 a.m.–3 p.m.

•

16+

16+

•

LENEXA REC CENTER FREE FOR MEMBERS / $2 FOR NONMEMBERS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED Card and board games: Includes bridge, mahjong and dominos.

Pickleball: A low-impact, high-energy doubles racket sport that blends tennis, badminton and pingpong.

17201 W. 87TH ST. PWKY. / 913.477.7529 TIME

M

T

W

TH

F

AGES

9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

•

•

•

•

•

55+

5 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

• •

•

•

5 a.m.–3:30 p.m.

•

5–8:30 a.m.

Splash With Me: Adult supervision required. Fee for child and guardian nonmembers.

KEEPING OUR ACTIVITIES SAFE • Lenexa follows mass gathering guidelines provided by the State of Kansas, which allows no more than 15 participants in Phase 2, and no more than 45 participants in Phase 3. We are in Phase 3.

• These restrictions will be followed and will limit the number of people that can participate in each class/ program at one time. Schedules and program days/ times have been adjusted to reflect this.

• Programs may be moved (when feasible) to areas where participants can spread out more efficiently and maintain 6 feet of distance during class.

Program locations will be clearly communicated with participants during registration.

26

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

10–11:30 a.m.

all ages

•

•

•

•

•

5 & under

LEARN MORE AT LENEXA.COM/CORONAVIRUS • Parents/guardians of participants are required to maintain social distancing in waiting areas of the facility. They will also be encouraged to remain outside, drop off/pick up (when appropriate) or find other areas to wait.

• High-touch surfaces and items will be sanitized regularly. All common-use equipment will be sanitized before and after each use and at the beginning and end of each class/program.

• For each program/class (when feasible), each participant will be assigned their own equipment.

• Signs throughout our facilities communicate both capacity and any guidelines for that specific space.

SUMMER CAMP

2021 Details on our exciting fullday summer camps are just around the corner!

Youth

Visit Lenexa.com/Camps for the most up-to-date information.

ARTS/CRAFTS

Winter Break Camp (Kindergarten–6th Grade)

Art Classes (Ages 6–12)

November: Draw. Build basic drawing skills on various papers and surfaces. Try techniques and explore different media using pencils, pens, pastels and more!

December: Paint. Join a collision of color and master the methods of acrylic and watercolor painting. Practice the basics and explore the possibilities.

January: Sculpt. Create with no fear! Use collage, printmaking, sculpture, clay and other messy media to create two- and three-dimensional art. #501201 W or TH

11/5–11/19

6–7 p.m.

$30

REC

W or TH

12/3–12/17

6–7 p.m.

$30

REC

W or TH

1/7–1/21

6–7 p.m.

$30

REC

CAMPS Kids Day Out (Kindergarten–6th Grade)

Looking for something for your child to do on nonschool days? Drop your kids off for a full day of fun!

Daily activities may include pickleball, dodgeball, outdoor interaction, cooking, STEAM and more. We will occasionally have field trips. #501401 Nov. 6, 13; Jan 4, 5, 18

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

$40/day

REC

Turkey Break Camp (Kindergarten–6th Grade)

Give yourself some time to prep the house and get ready for Thanksgiving while your children enjoy fun and festive activities, swimming and adventures outside. Fees: $40/ one day; $76/two days; $108/three days. #401404 M–W

11/23–11/25

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Fees above

REC

Make sure your kids are having a fun, festive, structured winter vacation while being active and creative, plus splashing around in the pool in a supervised environment. #401405 W

12/23

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

$40

REC

M–W

12/28– 12/30

7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

$40/one day; $76/two days; $108/three days

REC

CLASSES Preschool Pals (Ages 3–5)

This program is designed for children to reach developmental milestones needed for kindergarten readiness. An emphasis is placed on nature, art and movement, while focusing on development through handson learning. Must be potty-trained. #5011003 T/TH

11/3–11/19

9–11 a.m.

$12.50/day

REC

T/TH

12/1–12/17

9–11 a.m.

$12.50/day

REC

T/TH

1/5–1/28

9–11 a.m.

$12.50/day

REC

SPORTS/FITNESS Happy Feet Soccer (Ages 3–5)

This program from KC Legends teaches preschool soccer development through stories, songs and games. Players will learn social and gross motor skills along with creative soccer techniques. #501102 M

11/9–11/30

11:15–11:45 a.m.

$45

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

CC 27

Shining Stars Dance (Ages 3–18)

Introduce your child to a variety of dance styles with Miss Tauna. In addition to instruction in tap, ballet, tumbling, acrobatics, jazz, hip hop, and leaps and turns, Shining Stars will help build self-confidence, respect for self and others, coordination of mind and body and much more!

We’ll be preparing for a holiday performance Dec. 19 at the Lenexa Community Center.

Unlimited classes in child’s age range for $50/session.

Additional siblings receive 10% discount. Sessions are Nov. 2–24 and Nov. 30–Dec. 19. #501106 Ages 3–5 M

Combo (3-year-olds only): 4:30–5:30 p.m.; Combo (4–5-year-olds): 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

W

Combo: 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

S

Combo: 9–10 a.m.

Fees above

CC

M

Combo: 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

T

Combo: 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

W

Combo: 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

S

Combo: 10–11 a.m.

Fees above

CC

T

Combo: 5:30–6:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

W

Combo: 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

S

Combo: 10–11 a.m.

Fees above

CC

Ages 6–8

Ages 9–11

Ages 12–18 Tap & Jazz: 7:30–8:30 p.m.; Advanced Practice (requires instructor approval): 8:30–8:50 p.m.

Fees above

T

Ballet & Pointe: 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

S

Tap & Jazz: 11 a.m.–noon

Fees above

CC

M/T

28

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

Tot Basketball League (Ages 5–8)

Get your kids out of the house this winter for some fun basketball action! This recreational co-ed league will be parent-coach led. Each game starts with a 25-minute practice, followed by a 40--minute game. All equipment is provided, along with a team T-shirt to keep. #501128 Volunteer coaches needed. Parents who coach will receive 20% off their child(ren)’s registration fees. Must attend mandatory coaches meeting. If you are interested or have questions contact Jeremy Reimer, jreimer@lenexa.com.

M

11/16–12/21

Ages 5–6: 5:45–6:45 p.m.

Ages 7–8: 7–8 p.m.

$50

CC

T

1/5–2/16

Ages 5–6: 5:45–6:45 p.m.

Ages 7–8: 7–8 p.m.

$50

CC

All Ages SPORTS/FITNESS Karate (Ages 5+)

Progress through karate ranks in Shindo Jinen Ryu, a traditional Japanese karate style, by refining basic techniques, working on self-defense and learning competition-style kata. Additional fees for uniform and up to two tests per year. Unlimited classes for $55/session.

Upcoming sessions are Nov. 4–21 and Dec. 2–19. #501113 W

Ongoing

Beginner: 5:40 p.m..; Intermediate: 6:45 p.m.; Advanced: 7:30 p.m.

Fees above

REC

TH/F

Ongoing

Intermediate: 6:45 p.m.; Advanced: 7:45 p.m.

Fees above

REC

S

Ongoing

Beginner: 9 a.m.; Intermediate: 10 a.m.; Advanced: 11 a.m.

Fees above

REC

CC

Aquatics Lenexa offers AMERICAN RED CROSS SWIM LESSONS at a variety of skill levels. All group indoor swim and dive lessons are held at the Lenexa Rec Center. Rates are $50 for Rec Center members and $55 for nonmembers.

Photo by Wendy Delzeit

Tuesday/Thursday evening lessons will be offered Jan. 5–28 (enrollment opens Dec. 14).

Level 1 (Ages 6+)

Saturday morning lessons will be offered Jan. 9–Feb. 27 (enrollment opens Dec. 14).

Level 2 (Ages 6+)

Swimmers learn the basics of swimming. #504601 Student must willingly submerge and float on their front and back with assistance. #504602

Level 3 (Ages 6+) Diving Lessons: Platform (Ages 10–17)

Get acquainted with basic diving skills, both on land and platform. Must be able to perform basic diving skills and a front or back flip off a diving board. #504612

Parent/Child (Ages 6 months–3 years)

The purpose of this course is to foster a high comfort level in the water for very young children while at the same time training parents and caregivers in water safety and drowning prevention. #504598

Toddler (Ages 3+)

Your child will become acquainted with the water and basic water skills using songs and games. #504599

Preschool 1 (Ages 4–5)

Your child will become acquainted with the water and basic water skills. #504600

Preschool 2 (Ages 4–5)

Student must be able to float on front and back and put head under water. #504600

Preschool 3 (Ages 4–5)

Student must be comfortable swimming front stroke and swimming on their back. #504600

Student must float, glide and swim a basic stroke on their front and back independently. #504603

Level 4 (Ages 8+)

Student must front crawl, freestyle, swim on back, swim using the breaststroke kick and dive from a sitting or kneeling position. #504604

Level 5 (Ages 8+)

Student must swim breaststroke, sidestroke, backstroke, butterfly, tread water and dive. #504605

Level 6 (Ages 8+)

Student must swim continuously using a variety of strokes, turns and survival skills. #504606

Private Swim Lessons (Youth and Adults)

The instructor will create a program to help the student(s) reach their personalized swimming goals. Semiprivate lessons are available for two participants who are at a similar swimming level. Lessons are offered on Sunday mornings and Monday–Wednesday evenings.

Private lesson rates for four half-hour sessions: $100/ members, $108/nonmembers. Semiprivate lesson rates for four half-hour sessions (price is per person): $70/members, $76/nonmembers RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

29

Adult Shining Stars Adult Tap (Ages 16+)

NATURE/OUTDOORS Coffee, Walk & Talk

Join other Lenexa residents to walk on local trails. Walk about 2 miles at a leisurely pace, then enjoy a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop. #503301 November: Shawnee Mission Park (NW corner of lake)

9 a.m. Free, plus cost of coffee

T

December: Craig Crossing

9 a.m. Free, plus cost of coffee

T

January: Little Mill Creek Park North (79th and Cottonwood)

9 a.m. Free, plus cost of coffee

T

SPORTS/FITNESS 21 Day Jump Start (Ages 16+)

A new year is a great time to reboot. The 21 Day Jump Start Program is a great way to make your personal best a priority at the start of a new year. Program participants will receive a punch card for all fitness classes, and two small group training sessions will be available each week. #502012 T/TH

1/5–1/28

6–7 p.m.

$125

REC

Power Lifting Training Group & Competition (Ages 16+)

30

11/3–12/10

6–7 p.m.

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

$125

T/TH

Ongoing

11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

W

Ongoing

7:30–8:30 p.m.

Fees above

CC

Virtual Group Exercise Class Pass (Ages 16+)

Not ready to return to the gym or just running short on time? The Lenexa Rec Center is offering more than a dozen virtual group fitness classses each week via Zoom.

A camera is set up in our fitness studios, so you can join in the class wherever you are, get live feedback from instructors and feel the energy from other participants to stay motivated and consistent. See the current schedule of virutal classes at Lenexa.com/GroupX. The pass is only active during the month for which it is purchased. Get your pass before the first day of the month to access the greatest number of classes. #502162 M–S

Ongoing

5:30 a.m.– 7 p.m.

$25/month for Core Pass members and nonmembers; free for X Pass members

Online

Virtual Small Group Training (Ages 16+)

Participants will learn how to properly and safely perform squat, bench and dead lifts. The program will cover function, form and max rep testing and provide three workouts to do on your own between two weekly sessions.

You will compete with other participants for the greatest percentage of weight lifted measured from the start to the finish of the program. #502012 T/TH

Tap dancing is a lively and entertaining dance form that can help you increase strength, flexibility and coordination while lowering your stress levels. All levels welcome.

Unlimited classes for $44/month. Upcoming sessions: Nov. 3–Nov. 24 and Dec. 1–17. We’re preparing for a holiday performance Dec. 19 at the Lenexa Community Center. #502112

REC

Are you looking for accountability to a group to stay committed to your fitness goals, but not ready to come back to the gym? This group workout is designed to help you stay focused on your goals from the comfort of your own home. All virtual small groups will be held on Zoom. #502160 T/TH

11/3–12/3

4–5 p.m.

$125

Online

M/W

11/30 –1/20

6–7 p.m.

$125

Online

FITNESS/SPORTS Chair Yoga (Ages 55+)

Senior Senior meal pickup program (Age 60+) Johnson County Nutrition Services is providing hot meals for pickup at the Senior Center, 13425 Walnut St., for people age 60 and up. Call 913.888.6141 between 9 and 10 a.m. the day before to request a meal. Meals can be picked up on weekdays from 11 a.m. to noon at the north driveway entrance.

Suggested donation: $3.

This practice will be experienced seated on a chair and using the chair for support while standing.

Students will be given guidance and encouraged to do what’s best for their individual needs. Benefits can include improved breathing capacity, muscle endurance, flexibility, balance and overall sense of feeling good. All levels welcome. #503104 F

Ongoing

9–10 a.m.

$40/10-class card

CC

Senior Pep Fitness (Ages 55+)

Get energized and gain cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and strength! This upbeat exercise program will help you achieve your health goals. All fitness levels welcome. Join any time. #503103 T

Ongoing

9:30–10:30 a.m.

$35/10-class card

CC

The Lenexa Senior Center remains closed due to COVID-19 precautions. As a result, the indoor congregate meal program will not be offered until further notice.

WORD SCRAMBLE: ART ABOUT LENEXA HTE ETNPESR MSUAGIN ZREEEB ERDIFZEN IGFLTH OYDB OTPICLI AN XEN ES

SWIMMER

FRENZIED FLIGHT

WASH DAY

AMUSING BREEZE

BULL RIDGE

THE SERPENT

ETH NHUT

GRAMPA

EHT GEOJGR

BODY POLITIC

GARMAP

THE JOGGER

RIMWSME

NA NEX SE

HSAW DYA

ANSWERS THE HUNT

LBLU EDGIR

WINDSWEPT

PTIESWWND

Photo by Bill Harrison

RECREATION PROGRAM GUIDE

31

PRSRT  MKTG U.S. Postage P A I D Kansas City, MO Permit No. 32

17101 W. 87th St. Pkwy.

Lenexa, KS 66219

CITY OFFICIALS Mayor Mike Boehm

City Manager Beccy Yocham

City Council Ward 1 Joe Karlin Courtney Eiterich

City Council Ward 3 Dan Roh Corey Hunt

City Council Ward 2 Tom Nolte Bill Nicks

City Council Ward 4 Mandy Stuke Julie Sayers

Lenexa is an equal housing community.

SEEN IN LENEXA Photo by Instagram user

ken_ya_diggit

Photo by Twitter user JMSasenik

Want your photo featured? Tag it on social media with #SeeLenexa, and it could appear in TownTalk!

Photo by Instagram

user jillyand66

Photo by Instagram user 23redbud_lane Photo by Instagram user katiemangelsdorf

Photo by Instagram

user br.eck