July 24, 2025 Ad Hoc Historical Committee Meeting Minutes

Tom Madigan called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
Members in attendance:  Tom Madigan,  Liz Vogel, Ian Tompkins, Jenn Hill, Anna Jacobson, Jim Grebe, Chief Honas, and Council members Emily Hage and Matt Lero from the 75th Anniversary Committee.

	•	Agenda was modified to allow guests and committee members to discuss the Seventy-fifth anniversary sign at the beginning of the meeting.
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	•	 Minutes for the June meeting were approved..

	•	Seventy-fifth anniversary sign. Much discussion from committee members and guests representing the 75th Anniversary Committee regarding the celebratory aspect of our proposed sign. It was unanimously agreed to propose the following to the City Council for approval:
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		On July 2, 1951, the new city of Roeland Park, Kansas, covered 140 acres and had about
		1,800 residents. Its cozy starter homes attracted many young families and servicemen
		returning from World War II. At the time, Roeland Park was exclusively white, and racial
		covenants within property deeds specifically prohibited Black and Jewish households.
		While unenforceable since 1948, racial restrictions persisted until they became illegal
		under the 1968 Fair Housing Act.
		In 2026, Roeland Park represents a richly diverse community of over 6,800 residents.
		The city has codified ordinances ensuring equal opportunity for all, regardless of their
		identity or background. Roeland Parkers have been influential on the local and state level
		to address the legacy of racial covenants and enable homeowners to remove
		discriminatory language from their property deeds. The city has also made strides in
		improving infrastructure, including a new public pool and community center, art
		installations, and upgraded utilities.
		July 2, 2026, marks 75 years of Roeland Park’s history, community, and achievement.
		Today, residents and visitors alike can enjoy beautiful parks, engaging public events, and
		an active community. Even after 75 years, this city’s story is still being written, thanks to
		the residents who make this place home.
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	•	Redlining essay. It is in development.
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	•	Location and interpretive signs. For discussion at our next meeting, Ian will bring large legible handouts showing the previous versions of three signs: “Original Environment of Roeland Park,” “The Roe Family” and “Charles Vawter and the Founding of Roeland Park.”

        Website and essays. Anna will talk to Joey.

        Oral histories. These are being transcribed. Discussion regarding finding more longtime residents who 		would care to participate .
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	•	Art Master Plan. Nothing new to report.
	
	There was no new business.
        
	Our next meeting will be August 28.
	
Adjourned at 6:53 P.M.

Submitted with respect,
Jim Grebe