The developer of a subdivision in southwest Independence was unable to give even a brief presentation to the Planning Commission because of widespread absences at the last meeting. 
 
Only two commissioners were present: Corby Chappell, who chairs the planning commission, and Eric Smith, a longtime commission appointee. Zach Pelz, the contracted city planner and staff contact for the commission, also was present. Four current commissioners were absent. 
 
Harvey Cummings, the developer of the planned 40-lot project, wasn’t allowed to discuss, even informally, the reason for his visit. To do so would have been a likely violation of official protocol, explained Karin Johnson, city recorder. Mr. Cummings, who resides in Damascus, said in a brief interview -- as he was exiting the meeting -- that he would “return any time” his schedule allows it, despite the commute involved.

The youngest, newest member of the Independence City Council cast the only no vote against financing a sculpture for Main Street -- a statute to honor a former downtown merchant and his dog, with an estimated price tag of $20,000.
 
Councilor Odi Campos-Santos said he believe there should be a process for deciding which public art merits spending tax dollars. “This seems expensive without having that process” in place, he said. After the vote, Councilor Campos-Santos explained that the issue seemed sudden and inexact to him. For example, the city’s actual contribution wasn’t clearly defined, he pointed out. 
 
It’s possible some funds may be raised as donations, but it isn’t known how much of the $20,000 that’s needed will be generated that way, said City Manager David Clyne. 
 
City staff had been approached by a proprietor of the “River Gallery” in downtown Independence to create a bronze image of recently-deceased business owner Dan Weaver, who operated “Main Street Antiques.”
 
During the meeting, Mr. Clyne pointed out that, as city manager, he can spend up to $50,000 without the city council’s permission -- so the proposal didn’t require formal approval. However, it was taken to the council session for a public airing. “It seems like it’s going the right direction,” said Mayor John McArdle. 
 
Councilor Tom Takacs called on the council to proceed cautiously. “I’d like to see a lot of public support for this,” he said. However, when the vote was taken, he voted yes with councilors Marilyn Morton, Michael Hicks and Diana Lindskog. (Councilor Kathy Martin-Willis was absent). Councilor Campos-Santos cast the lone dissenting vote. At 34, Councilor Campos-Santos is the council’s youngest member. He was appointed several months ago to fill the seat vacated by former City Councilor Ken Day, who resigned due to his relocation to Arizona.
 
Former Councilor Day said during his resignation that he hoped his seat would be taken by someone willing to challenge issues that affect tax-paying citizenry. Asked about this philosophic statement after the meeting, Councilor Campos-Santos said he is attempting to represent everyone -- young or old, home-owner or renter. “I consider everyone my constituent,” he said. 

An administrator to manage and direct the Heritage Museum will be hired in the next few months as part of the city’s plan to upgrade the museum in the years ahead. The announcement was made by City Manager David Clyne. 
A power-point presentation by Vickie McCubbin, chair of the Heritage Museum Commission, offered a new step-by-step strategic plan for the museum. One priority is to “professionalize” it, she said. Mr. Clyne said a search for museum director is the first step in that direction. [The November issue of The Independent will take a more complete look at plans for the Heritage Museum -- and overall tourism potential in Independence -- on the cusp of hiring a new city manager.]