Commissions, Clubs and Groups

Park Commission

In 1995, a seven-member volunteer committee was created by the City Council to promote park and recreation activities, facilities, and fundraising efforts within the community. The group also serves as the oversight committee for improvements made through park sales tax efforts. The commission meets quarterly to discuss park-related issues and developments. The public is welcome to attend. If you would like to be considered for commission membership, please call the City Clerk’s office at 816-325-7010. To view current members, vacancies, agendas and minutes of past meetings visit the Park Commission.

Adopt-A-Park and Adopt-A-Spot

The Parks and Recreation Department frequently works with community volunteer groups and organizations in an effort to improve our various park sites. Work projects are generally determined on an individual basis in order to fully meet the needs of each volunteering group and the park to be adopted. If your club or organization is interested in putting a little sweat equity in one of your Independence parks, please contact the Parks Horticulturalist at 816-325-7383.

Tourism Commission

The Commission serves as an advocate for the tourism industry in Independence by educating residents and businesses about the economic, cultural, and historical value of tourism in Independence; promoting cooperation and communication among tourism sites; and addressing issues that affect tourism. The Commission advises and recommends policies, procedures, and programs that benefit tourism in Independence by helping to support the Tourism Division objectives and providing regular feedback to the Parks Recreation Tourism Department. The public is welcome to attend. If you would like to be considered for commission membership, please call the City Clerk’s office at 816-325-7010. To view current members, vacancies, agendas and minutes of past meetings visit Tourism Commission.

Tree Commission

A five-member advisory group explores tree-related issues in the Independence community. This commission investigates any concerns related to those trees in public areas and rights-of-way, promotes the City's annual Arbor Day event, and assists in developing workshops and other public education efforts. Thanks in large part to the efforts of this group, the City has annually received the National Arbor Day Foundation's Tree City USA Award since 2000. If you would like additional information, please call the Parks Horticulturalist at 816-325-7383. To become a commission member, please contact the City Clerk’s office at 816-325-7010. To view current members, vacancies, agendas and minutes of past meetings visit Tree Commission.

Bridge Club - The Palmer Center, 218A Pleasant

Experienced players join for competitive games. This is not instructional but anyone interested is welcome. Meets at the Truman Memorial Building. 12:30 pm-4:30 pm, Tuesdays. All levels of play are welcome. Club Membership required (Regular rate - $25/year, Independence Resident discounted rate - $10/year). 

Duplicate Bridge - The Palmer Center, 218A Pleasant

Club members are experienced players and partners are required. Club dues for national affiliation collected. Games are played at the Truman Memorial Building 12-4 pm Mondays and Wednesdays. Club Membership required (Regular rate - $25/year, Independence Resident discounted rate - $10/year).  

Theatre Organizations - The Sermon Center - 201 N Dodgion

Three outstanding, community-based theatre groups are headquartered at the Roger T. Sermon Community Center in the Powerhouse Theatre.

Spirit of Independence Concert Band

This band is a group of local musicians under the direction of Jane Hicklin. Their rehearsals are held at the Truman Memorial Building and perform concerts at different venues in the City of Independence throughout the year. Visit their Facebook page for upcoming concert dates and locations.

Queen City Quilters - The Sermon Center, 201 N Dodgion