April 2026

Pleasant Hill Invites Residents to Shape the City’s Future Through New Survey

5 May 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: April 2026, Issues

Residents of Pleasant Hill are being asked to take an active role in guiding the city’s next chapter. A newly launched community survey is giving locals the opportunity to weigh in on priorities, services, and long-term planning as city leaders begin work on a five-year strategic plan. The URL to the survey is www.surveymonkey.com/r/pleasanthillmo

In a letter to residents dated May 2026, City Administrator Kristen Dorman emphasized the importance of public input in shaping decisions that will impact everything from infrastructure and services to future growth. The goal, she noted, is simple: ensure that the city’s direction reflects what matters most to the people who live there.

To help gather and interpret that feedback, the city has partnered with PorchLight Insights, a firm specializing in data collection and analysis for local governments. The firm will handle the survey process independently, ensuring that individual responses remain confidential. Once complete, the compiled results will be presented to the Mayor and City Council later this summer, forming a foundation for the city’s strategic planning efforts.

The survey is available online via a QR code in the city’s outreach materials or at the provided SurveyMonkey link. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, paper copies are available at City Hall, and residents can also complete the survey by phone.

City officials say participation is key. The more residents who respond, the clearer the picture becomes of what Pleasant Hill needs—not just today, but in the years ahead. From maintaining essential services to identifying new opportunities for growth, the feedback gathered now will help guide decisions that shape daily life across the community.

For a town that often prides itself on strong civic engagement, the survey represents another chance for residents to move beyond conversation and into action—making their voices part of the official record that will help define Pleasant Hill’s future.

Letter to the Editor – Share Your Voice with PHMOmag

30 April 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: April 2026, Issues

PHMOmag invites residents of Pleasant Hill to submit Letters to the Editor and be part of the ongoing conversation about our community. Whether you want to highlight a local issue, share your perspective, or respond to something happening in town, your voice matters.

Letters should reflect your personal views, experiences, and opinions. Any statements presented as fact must be accurate and verifiable.

Submissions that include information that is not factual or that do not meet our guidelines will be returned to the sender with the opportunity to revise and resubmit.

We welcome thoughtful, respectful contributions that add to constructive dialogue. Letters that contain personal attacks, unverified allegations, or misleading claims will not be published. The tone must be constructive.

Submissions must include your name and confirmation that you reside within the Pleasant Hill ZIP code. Commercial property owners and business owners may also submit letters, but must clearly identify the business they own and provide the ZIP code or city in which they reside.

To submit a Letter to the Editor, send to 126 1st St., Pleasant Hill, MO. 64080 or email phmomag@gmail.com

Be heard. Be thoughtful. Be part of the conversation.

Pleasant Hill Joins Regional “Parade of Hearts” Public Art Experience

30 April 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, April 2026, Issues

By Connie Whitlock
Publishing Editor

A newly installed sculpture from the Parade of Hearts has been placed in one of the city’s downtown parks, connecting the community to a metro-wide celebration of creativity and giving. Pleasant Hill is now part of a growing regional tradition that blends art, community, and philanthropy. An announcement was made on the city’s social media page, “Pleasant Hill is officially on the heart map! Our Parade of Hearts sculpture was installed today at Wyoming Street Crossing Park. Be sure to plan a visit downtown and see it in person now through August!”

“Let’s Play” Parade of Heart at Wyoming Street Crossing Park (photo/Connie Whitlock)

The sculpture, titled “Let’s Play!”, was created by artist Rachel Black and is designed to bring a sense of cheer to those who encounter it, which aligns with the broader spirit of the Parade of Hearts initiative.

Artist Rachel Black (photo/paradeofhearts.com)

Black’s artistic style reflects a blend of structure and spontaneity. An abstract artist inspired by architecture and texture, she draws influence from the colorful streets of Greece and the organic forms of Antoni Gaudí. Her work also echoes the techniques of artists such as Willem de Kooning, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Keith Haring. She uses oils, spray paint, stencils, and unconventional tools such as scrapers and rollers. Black creates layered, expressive pieces that emphasize movement and energy.

Her personal story also shapes her artistic voice. As the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, Black intentionally focuses on themes of lightness and joy.

The Parade of Hearts, which began in 2022, features artist-designed sculptures placed throughout more than 60 communities across the Kansas City metro, including Pleasant Hill. The 2026 collection features a heart-shaped cutout, standing about six feet tall, and is centered around the theme “Hearts of Unity.” Visitors are encouraged to explore the region, using a mobile app to locate sculptures, learn about artists, and check in along the way.

Beyond its artistic impact, the initiative serves a larger purpose, raising millions of dollars for charitable organizations while drawing visitors to participating communities. The Parade of Hearts doesn’t fund just one specific nonprofit; instead, it supports a range of charitable organizations across the Kansas City region. Proceeds from sponsorships and the final auction are distributed to multiple local nonprofits, often focusing on areas like health services, youth programs, community support, and arts initiatives. In addition, many individual sculptures highlight or are connected to specific causes, helping bring visibility and awareness to those organizations throughout the display season.

For Pleasant Hill, the addition of “Let’s Play!” at Wyoming Street Crossing Park not only enhances the downtown experience but also places the city firmly on the regional “heart map.”

Head downtown to Wyoming Street Crossing Park, snap a photo, and share it with the community as a glimpse of the joy you experienced. See more about Parade of Hearts at www.paradeofhearts.com.

Debate Over Downtown Improvements Leads to Delay on Gray’s Lot Electric Proposal

29 April 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, April 2026, Issues

By Connie Whitlock
Publishing Editor

A proposal to add electrical service to the recently installed structures at city-owned Gray’s Lot prompted a broader discussion about the future of the downtown space during the April 27th City Council meeting.

Grays Lot (photo/PHHD Facebook Page)

The request, presented on behalf of the Pleasant Hill Historic District, focused on installing underground electrical lines to the two gazebo-style structures installed last year. The project would allow for lighting, event support, and general use of the space without relying on temporary extension cords.

“This is a simple project,” the presenter Bonnie Chambers explained, describing a short trench from an existing electrical box to the structures, with outlets installed for lighting and other uses.

(What was missed in this article is that PHHD fundraised for the structures along with other beautification in downtown Pleasant Hill and is paying for the electricity to go in. PHHD is an organization that is helping downtown with design, economic vitality, events, and more. They partner with Missouri Mainstreet and fundraise for all projects, including the electric proposal to the city.)

Bonnie Chambers, a rep. from PHHD, proposing electric for downtown structures (photo/Connie Whitlock)

One of the primary concerns raised by Councilwoman Jessica Elliott was whether the project aligns with the original intent of the structures. When first approved, the units were described as temporary and easily removable. Since then, concrete pads have been installed beneath them, and the addition of electrical infrastructure raised questions about whether the space is becoming more permanent than originally planned.

Councilman Patterson motioned to approve, but there was hesitancy to second the motion. It was then opened up to public comments.

Supporters of the request emphasized the impact it could have on downtown’s atmosphere. Lighting the structures, they said, would make the area more inviting for residents and visitors, particularly during events and seasonal activities. The ability to safely power lights, especially during the holidays, was also cited as an improvement.

One public comment suggested formalizing the arrangement through a written agreement that outlines that the Pleasant Hill Historic District (PHHD) would cover maintenance costs and, if the property is ultimately redeveloped, take responsibility for removal. PHHD representatives indicated they were agreeable to that approach, and City Administrator Kristen Dorman recommended holding a meeting to work out the details.

The council decided to move the discussion to the next meeting to allow more time for additional research.

City Begins Community Survey Process with Porchlight Insights

29 April 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, April 2026

By Connie Whitlock
Publishing Editor


At the April 27 work session, the Pleasant Hill City Council began talks with Porchlight Insights, a consulting firm focused on community data and engagement.

Representative from Porchlight explaining the process of the survey (photo/Connie Whitlock)

The firm will lead a citywide survey designed to gather resident input on priorities, services, and the overall direction of Pleasant Hill. According to Porchlight representatives, the effort is intended to ensure decisions are grounded in measurable community feedback.

“What we want to do here with Pleasant Hill is really get a sense as you’re moving into your new term… what is the community saying?” one representative told the council.

The survey will play a role in the city’s upcoming strategic planning process. Rather than relying solely on internal discussions, the council is looking to collect structured data from residents across the community.

Officials emphasized that the goal is to capture real experiences from those who live and work in Pleasant Hill. “We want to make sure that we are collecting this data, and it represents the voices of the people walking around every day,” the consultant said.

Since Pleasant Hill is a small town, they will open the survey to all residents. The more participation, the better the data. Porchlight noted that responses will be validated to ensure they reflect the community, while still allowing input from those who may live just outside city limits but regularly engage with the city.

The survey will cover a range of topics, including quality of life, trust in local government, and satisfaction with city services such as streets, parks, and public safety. It will also ask residents to help prioritize future investments.

Council members identified infrastructure as a key concern they expect residents to highlight. “That’s going to be mostly public works… streets,” one councilmember said when asked what issues they hear about most often.

Economic development is also expected to be a major theme. Mayor Dan Donovan pointed to the need for growth that supports the city’s long-term financial stability, saying his goal is “to get to build up our economy here so that way, we don’t keep seeing budget issues.”

From left to right – Councilman Patterson, Councilwoman Elliott, Mayor Donovan, and Councilwoman Dummer (photo/Connie Whitlock)

The survey will be distributed through multiple channels, including utility bill inserts, QR codes, social media, and community events. Council members suggested placing materials at high-traffic locations such as the farmers market, parks, and youth sports facilities to increase participation.

The survey is expected to launch this May and remain open for several weeks.

Porchlight emphasized that the survey is only one piece of the decision-making process, but an important one. “It’s not the survey isn’t the end all be all… but it can really help shift across different areas and get a sense,” the consultant explained.

As Pleasant Hill prepares for the next phase of planning, city leaders are making a clear push to gather the community’s thoughts directly to shape the future.
https://www.porchlightinsights.com/

Gratitude and Change Mark Council Transition in Pleasant Hill

14 April 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: All News, April 2026, Issues

By Connie Whitlock
Publishing Editor

Jessica Elliott, Pat Niner, Don Donovan, Dr. Zachary Patterson, Brenda Dummer (Photo/Connie Whitlock)

Monday night’s City Council meeting marked a significant moment of transition for the City of Pleasant Hill, as newly elected officials took their seats following a closely watched and, at times, heated election season. The tone inside City Hall, however, was one of appreciation, professionalism, and a peaceful transfer of leadership.

Mayor John King welcomes newly elected officials. (Photo/Connie Whitlock)

The evening included recognition for those whose terms have come to an end. John King, who served a combined 10 years as both a council member and mayor, was publicly thanked by Pat Niner and presented with a plaque honoring his service to the community. In brief remarks, King reflected on his time in office, saying, “I appreciate everything you guys did—the hard days and the good days. We got a lot of stuff done.” Michelle Newberry of Precinct 22 and Jackie Emo, who was not in attendance, also concluded their service on the council.

Mayor John King and Councilwoman Pat Niner. (Photo/Connie Whitlock)

Stepping into those roles are Jessica Elliott, representing Precinct-22, and Dr. Zachary Patterson as the At-Large councilmember, along with newly elected Mayor Don Donovan. Each was sworn in during the meeting, formally beginning a new chapter in the city’s leadership.


Don Donovan
Dr. Zachary Patterson
Jessica Elliott

The transition was also reflected in the council chambers’ physical setup. The room was reconfigured so that city staff now sit directly across from the council, with the public podium positioned between them—an adjustment that subtly underscores a new dynamic in how meetings may be conducted moving forward.

City Staff (Photo/Connie Whitlock)

Pleasant Hill operates under a mayor-council form of government, with a city administrator, Kristen Dorman, overseeing daily operations and placing policy direction and long-term planning squarely in the hands of the elected council. As this new group settles in, key issues remain on the horizon from ongoing development discussions and infrastructure planning to broader questions about the city’s financial future.

Pleasant Hill City Elections

8 April 2026
Connie Whitlock
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Categories: April 2026, April 2026, Issues

By Connie Whitlock
Publishing Editor

Four names had carried conversations for months, woven into coffee shop talk and local debates. When the final count came in, it was Don Donovan who rose to the top with 416 votes, followed by John E. P. King with 344, Robert Gear with 279, and Bernice “Bea” Schirlls Howe with 55.

Across town, another contest unfolded for Council At Large. It was tighter and close enough that every handful of votes seemed to matter more than usual. When it ended, Zachary A. Patterson edged forward with 300 votes, just ahead of Tyler Young with 291. Behind them, John Self gathered 244, and Mark Crain 225.

And then there was Precinct 22. Four candidates, each pulling a different thread of the neighborhood. In the end, Jessica Elliott emerged with 107 votes, ahead of Kaila Fain with 76, Cathy Babylon-Gilbert with 59, and Claire Hertzog with 44.

Cass County Election Results