Overland Park unveils solar-powered Maple Hill Park and launches farmers market season

The Overland Park City Council convened on April 21, 2025, to discuss various community initiatives and updates. The meeting began with a report on the city's urban forestry efforts, highlighting the success of the program over its first three years. The city has engaged closely with the urban forest plan, recently adding a second forester and distributing over 1,600 tree and shrub seedlings in celebration of Arbor Day. A total of 300 trees have been planted through a grant from the Kansas Forest Service aimed at restoring canopy loss due to the emerald ash borer.

Upcoming projects were also discussed, including the adoption of the urban forest plan and the opening of a time capsule buried 25 years ago at the Legacy Garden, scheduled for April 26. The city continues to emphasize public education on tree care through various outreach efforts.

Following this, the council addressed reappointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals, which were approved unanimously. The meeting then shifted focus to the recent dedication of Maple Hill Park, which has undergone significant renovations, including the addition of solar-powered facilities, new bathrooms, and a playground. The park is now equipped with pickleball courts, although this detail was humorously noted as confidential.

Council President Holly Grama reported on the successful opening of the 2025 Farmers Market at the Matt Ross Community Center, which attracted over 10,000 attendees despite inclement weather. She also announced upcoming recycling events, including a recycling extravaganza on April 26 and electronic recycling and shredding on May 31.

The Committee of the Whole provided a briefing on the city's preparations for the 2026 World Cup and recommended the adoption of a new brand identity system for Overland Park. A motion to adopt Resolution Number 5039 was made, which passed with an 11 to 1 vote after some discussion regarding the branding's visual impact.

City Manager Lori Curtis Luther concluded the meeting by passing the floor to Assistant City Manager Kate Gunja for further agenda items. Overall, the meeting showcased the city's commitment to environmental initiatives, community engagement, and strategic planning for future events.