MISSION, KS (KCTV) -
A decision made behind closed doors could affect an entire city. The Johnson County District Attorney said city leaders in Mission, KS, violated the Kansas Open Meetings Act trying to buy a building.
The district attorney said he will not fine the mayor or city council members for violating the law at this time, but he wants city leaders to take training on the open meetings law within the next six months.
At issue is the purchase of the Neff building near Martway Street and Metcalf Avenue for $280,000.
The district attorney said Mayor Laura McConwell signed documents to purchase the building without the City Council's binding approval.
KCTV5's reporting partner The Kansas City Star reported that the Mission City Council talked about buying the building in a closed meeting, but failed to authorize the purchase. The district attorney said the purchase of the building won't be voided but, if any more violations occur, he will reconsider his decision.
Anyone who knowingly violates any provision of the state law can be penalized up to $500 for each violation.
The city staff had wanted to purchase the vacant building that was becoming an eyesore, bulldoze it and then decide what to do with the property.
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