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Raytown outlines business wins, grant bids and World Cup preparations at economic development update
Summary
City staff reported 2024 economic development activity (1,403 business licenses issued), retention and expansion of H and H Color Lab, sale of the former US 800 building with a tenant seeking Planning & Zoning review, TAP and RAISE grant work, and early planning for World Cup/FIFA-related impacts.
City economic-development staff gave a detailed update on Feb. 4, outlining accomplishments from 2024, projects now advancing, and preparations related to large regional events.
Missy, the city’s economic development lead, told the board that Community Development issued about 1,403 business licenses last year and that staff receive roughly 10 new weekly inquiries from entities exploring space or assistance. She highlighted three retention or recruitment wins: a previously vacant commercial property that changed hands after title and negotiation work, the former US 800 building that sold at auction and whose prospective tenant will appear before the Planning and Zoning Commission on Feb. 6, and H and H Color Lab, which secured a temporary occupancy permit after multi-year coordination with the fire district and utilities.
The city is applying to the Urban Land Institute’s Technical Assistance Panel (TAP) and said the application cost is under $15,000; staff also confirmed a RAISE grant submittal and noted they expect award decisions this summer. Damon Hodges, city administrator, described coordination with regional partners to plan for World Cup/FIFA matches nearby and the logistical work ahead—transportation, parking, short-term vendor permitting and legal limits on using FIFA branding.
Small-business owners on the board and in the audience pressed for clearer, more predictable permitting and inspection processes. One business owner asked that inspections identify all requirements at the first visit rather than adding requirements in successive follow-ups; staff proposed monthly or bimonthly reporting and partnerships with organizations such as KC SourceLink and local chambers to help businesses become sustainable.
Staff said they will bring further details back to the board, expect consultants on the comprehensive plan to report in March and will provide follow-up on TAP application materials and the RAISE grant status.
