In 2016, the City conducted a Citizen Satisfaction Survey in an effort to understand what the community's vision for the future would be. What was revealed was some significant polling numbers indicating that a vast majority of citizens were very unhappy about the type of development taking place west of Noland Road, and almost 90% stated it was vital to maintain and enhance the character of Independence Square. Citizens focused on preserving the historic charm and sites in the city and to find a way to spur growth and move forward with much needed infrastructure improvements. From these results City Leadership moved forward with several initiatives including neighborhood plans, streetscape plans and construction of the new Farmers Market. In an effort to bring all of this planning together, the City Council created the Downtown Redevelopment Coordinating Committee, whose final report was unanimously adopted by the City Council on October 15th, 2018.

The DRCC report contained several key recommendations that represents a real, tangible and effective step forward for Independence that will; 1) Spur economic development and job creation; 2) Promote tourism and foot traffic; 3) Remove blight; 4) Enhance the quality of life; 5) Attract private investment. The list, taken in the aggregate will have a real impact on the trajectory of Independence and builds upon the strengths of Independence; its culture, character and heritage. While this list is largely focused on restoring the core, it will strengthen the heart of Independence, which will have lasting benefits for all current and future citizens. The DRCC believes that a dynamic Plan of Finance that extends Independence dollars through the utilization of state, federal and private funds is not only prudent, but desirable. Included in the category of Heritage Projects is the implementation of the National Frontier Trails Museum Master Plan. That plan largely focused on completing projects described in the master plan including new shelter and overlook, new entry lobby, new event space, renovate floors, new exhibit staging, parking, and hardscape/landscape.

During the course of the DRCC deliberations, there was discussion about the different potential for impact from a renovation versus a full restoration overhaul. The DRCC members expressed the need for a vision of how an improved museum could connect to the broader tourism strategy and history.

Funding in the amount of $75,000 would be allocated for the National Frontier Trails Museum Master Plan.

Tourism Fund: 041901 – Reduce NFTM – Exhibits by $75,000.00

 Tourism Fund: 6062.5226 – Increase Professional Services by $75,000.00

The submitted budget recommended funding in the amount of $1,665,000 for capital maintenance in the Transient Guest Tax, an increase of $1,185,000 from FY 21-22. If this amendment and Budget Amendment #3 are approved (a total reduction of $150,000 reduction), this would leave $1,515,000 for capital maintenance