City Council Approves Resolution Supporting Future Preservation of City-Owned Historic Sites

The Independence City Council has approved a resolution directing the City Manager to explore ways to fund, support and manage City-owned historic sites, including the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and the Vaile Mansion.

The resolution states the City Council's intent to retain ownership of the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and the Vaile Mansion while exploring long-term options to address significant deferred maintenance needs at these and other City-owned historic properties.

The resolution does not approve a bond issue, create a new tax, or place any measure on the ballot. It directs the City Manager to explore potential funding, support and management options to address deferred maintenance needs at City-owned historic sites.

City-owned historic sites help define the unique character of Independence and distinguish the city from surrounding communities. According to the 2023 Citizen Satisfaction Survey, 92% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that it is important to preserve the City's historic sites.

The City Manager will explore options and bring information back to the City Council for future consideration.

Does this mean the City is selling the Bingham-Waggoner Estate or the Vaile Mansion?

No. The approved resolution states the City Council's intent to retain ownership of both the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and the Vaile Mansion at this time.

Why is the City looking at this issue?

City-owned historic sites are an important part of Independence's identity and history. However, several of these properties have significant deferred maintenance needs, and current General Fund resources are not enough to fully address them.

What historic sites are included?

The resolution specifically names the Bingham-Waggoner Estate and the Vaile Mansion, but it also directs the City Manager to explore ways to support all City-owned historic sites.

What kind of funding could be considered?

The City is in the early stages of exploring options to better support City-owned historic sites and address deferred maintenance needs. No specific funding source has been approved, and any future recommendation would come back to the City Council for consideration.