RESOLUTION NO. 260310
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Sponsor: Councilmember Melissa Patterson Hazley
RESOLUTION - Recognizing and declaring the first Saturday of April as the annual Blue River Day in Kansas City, Missouri.
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WHEREAS, the Blue River is one of Kansas City’s most important natural and ecological assets, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and communities across more than 40 miles in Kansas and Missouri; and
WHEREAS, since 1991, Project Blue River Rescue has brought together thousands of volunteers for one of Missouri’s largest single-day stream cleanups, organized through the Missouri Stream Team Program in partnership with civic, community, and corporate organizations; and
WHEREAS, this effort has removed nearly 2,000 tons of debris, including more than 10,000 illegally dumped tires, while contributing over 50,000 volunteer hours to improve water quality, restore habitat, and strengthen community connection to the Blue River; and
WHEREAS, Kansas City recognizes the Blue River as central to environmental resilience, public health, equitable access to nature, and long-term sustainability, as reflected in the City initiatives and planning efforts that support watershed health, green infrastructure, and community investment; and
WHEREAS, establishing an annual Blue River Day honors the legacy of Project Blue River Rescue while expanding citywide engagement in environmental stewardship, education, and volunteerism; and
WHEREAS, the first Saturday in April, the long-standing date of Project Blue River Rescue, is an appropriate time to recognize and celebrate the Blue River and encourage broad community participation; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby recognize and declare the first Saturday in April as Blue River Day in Kansas City, Missouri and encourages all residents, businesses, schools, and community partners to participate in activities that protect, restore, and celebrate the Blue River and its watershed; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof, and that a copy hereof be presented to the Heartland Conservation Alliance in recognition of its leadership and outstanding service in protecting and restoring the Blue River watershed for the people of Kansas City, Missouri.
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