Quick 5 questions for

1 Why are residents in the proposed annexation area so against being annexed into Independence?
Both past Mayor Stewart and current Mayor Reimal have stated that the city has nothing to offer the unincorporated residents. We see only more taxes to pay and loss of several priviliges and quality services.
 
2 Wouldn’t residents get some benefits from being part of Independence, such as city services and police and fire protection?
Our sheriff's protection and response time would not improve. In fact, Fort Osage fire and medical services even back up the city's emergency services. I doubt that city taxpayers wish to pay for approximately a 33 percent increase in emergency services.
 
3 The original annexation area proposed by the city includes around 30 square miles of land, and affects around 700 residences. What percentage of those do you think are against the proposal.
Without a doubt – 99 percent.
 
4 The annexation issue is not currently on the city’s agenda. Why does your group plan to show up in large numbers at Monday’s City Council meeting?
The city government has been promoting support for annexation within its confines. In 2006, the council passed an ordinance to put a "hold" on the proposed area; the first step to annexation under Missouri state statutes.
 
5 How resolved is the group to make sure to fight the annexation issue now, and in the long term?
This issue has brought our neighborhood closer together. I've never seen so many of my neighbors feel so strongly about a common goal. It appears that we will never give in.