The city of Independence has initiated a process to revise its fee and application structure for door-to-door businesses. This decision follows discussions in November led by City Administrator Chris Moriconi and City Clerk Gina Rawe, who presented concerns about the existing system, describing it as inefficient and costly.
During a council meeting on Monday night, Mayor Chris Reinserman emphasized the need for change. “We were spending a lot of time on these solicitors’ licenses, and the fees were not covering that time,” he stated. The current fee for a company’s initial application stands at $50, with an additional $25 required for each individual salesperson.
The proposed changes aim to simplify the licensing process. Under the new structure, a uniform fee of $75 will be implemented for each applicant. This adjustment seeks to address the workload associated with processing licenses, particularly as some companies deploy teams of salespeople, each requiring individual licensing.
Political and religious canvassers will remain exempt from the new fees, maintaining their ability to operate without additional financial burden.
The City Council conducted a first reading of the ordinance detailing these changes on Monday. A final vote on the measure is scheduled for next month, which will determine whether the new fee structure will be enacted.
Residents and business operators can review the proposed ordinance, which outlines the changes, including highlighted sections for clarity. The adjustments reflect a concerted effort by the city to streamline operations while ensuring that fees align more closely with the administrative demands placed on city resources.
This move represents a significant step for Independence as it addresses operational challenges while fostering an environment conducive to business activity. The outcome of the upcoming council vote will be crucial in shaping the future of door-to-door sales in the area.
