Neosho Council to pursue quitclaim deed to return small parcel tied to Air Force plane display

Council members discussed a small, city‑owned parcel that was deeded to Neosho years ago to host an Air Force airplane display at a private business that later closed. City staff said the plane is now displayed at the airport and the parcel—about 100 by 100 feet—provides no benefit and may be a liability while it remains on the city's tax rolls.

Mr. Kennedy told council the owner has inquired about taking the parcel back and "did indicate that he would take this parcel back." Council asked whether the owner had been contacted; staff confirmed the owner has indicated willingness to accept reconveyance and staff was directed to prepare a quitclaim deed and an ordinance authorizing the mayor to execute it. The clerk said the reconveyance would require a recording fee (about $30) and a short ordinance to authorize signing the deed; staff said they would pay fees as part of the process and bring the finalized ordinance back to council for approval.

Councilmembers raised administrative concerns about property taxes and whether the owner needs to formally accept the deed; staff and the clerk said the city could prepare the quitclaim deed and that it would be brought back for council approval. No formal vote was recorded on the reconveyance during the meeting; the direction was for staff to prepare paperwork and return it to the council.

The matter will return to the council with an ordinance and deed for formal action. If approved, the city will execute the quitclaim deed and remove the parcel from the city's inventory and tax rolls as appropriate.