Branson Development News
GatherGov Agents listens to meetings 24/7 delivering the latest real estate development updates, legislation, and news.
Development News from the latest meeting
Branson Board Approves $144,567 Budget Increase for Insurance Premiums
The Board of Aldermen unanimously approved Bill Number 6691 on its final reading, which amends the 2026 budget to accommodate an increase in insurance premiums totaling $144,567. This increase covers property liability, cyber liability, and workers' compensation insurance. The new broker, Aulis Acres Arne, was selected in April, and the transition created a tight timeline for renewals. The property liability premium increase of approximately $66,000 covers additional structures, values for the police station, and newly purchased vehicles. Cyber liability coverage was doubled from $5 million to $10 million, increasing the premium by $54,477, driven by a proactive approach to cybersecurity. The workers' compensation premium rose by $84,000, primarily due to payroll increases and past loss runs, although a bad year with seven orthopedic surgeries is expected to fall off next year, potentially reducing future costs. The city is also working with its new broker to close pending claims to further reduce rates. The insurance policies renewed on July 1st.
Longstone 2 Subdivision Final Plat Approved on First Reading by Branson Board
The Board of Aldermen approved Bill Number 6690 on its first reading, concerning the final subdivision plat for the Longstone 2 subdivision, Phase 1, in Branson, Missouri. The preliminary plat, which contemplated 35 lots, was previously approved by both the Planning Commission and the Board of Aldermen. The proposed final plat for Phase 1 includes nine lots and associated street and access improvements. Staff found that the final plat substantially complies with the approved preliminary plat's design, with no significant changes to the lot layout, street network, or access points. Improvement plans for required infrastructure have been reviewed and approved by city departments. While final financial security documentation (a bond) was still being finalized, the applicant committed to signing and submitting it promptly. Staff recommended approval.
Branson Police Department Reports Crime Reduction, Technology Enhancements, and Community Engagement
Chief Schmidt presented the Branson Police Department's annual update, emphasizing the department's underlying philosophy of legitimacy and community support. Calls for service have remained steady, with a slight increase in police calls (1%) after previous double-digit increases. Dispatch handled an average of 105-108 calls per day, while the PD averaged 66-70 calls per day, translating to approximately 5.9 calls per officer per shift. Arrests averaged 3-3.5 per shift, with significant time spent on transport and report writing. Traffic stops have increased significantly, averaging 10.4 per shift, an effort to address traffic concerns and educate a transient seasonal population. Property crimes have seen a double-digit decrease year-over-year since 2022, attributed to improved staffing, proactive policing, use of technology like FLOCK (License Plate Reader system), and collaboration with the prosecutor's office. Harassment cases saw a 56% spike, prompting a call for improved community civility. Highlights included moving into a new police department facility with an advanced weight room and training facility, launching mandatory on-duty workouts, and offering spouse access to the gym. The new dispatch center, featuring windows and individual climate control, is set to open after July 4th. Transparency efforts include active social media presence and readily available crime maps. For 2026, goals include acquiring new canine vehicles, improving officer safety equipment, rolling out a drone-as-first-responder program, updating recruitment videos, and enhancing social media presence. The department is committed to not hiding crime from the public, viewing community as a partner in safety.
Branson Explores Film Partnership with Great American Media to Boost Tourism and Economy
The Board of Aldermen heard a presentation on a proposed partnership opportunity between the City of Branson, the Branson Lakes Area Tourism Community Enhancement District (TCED), and Great American Media to boost the film industry in Branson. TCED has already committed $750,000 annually for three years ($2.25 million total) to this partnership, which aims to secure at least two movies per year from Great American Media, totaling six movies over three years. This also includes $500,000 annually in advertising across Great American Media's platforms. The city is being asked to invest an additional $750,000 annually for three years ($2.25 million total) to establish Branson as a film-friendly destination, enabling recruitment of projects and promotion of the area. This initiative aims to drive visitation, create jobs, and generate economic impact, with measurable returns through advertising tracking. The partnership is exclusive in that Branson will not seek the same deal with other networks but can still work with other film projects. The first movie, 'Ozark Mountain Christmas,' filmed in January and is set to debut November 6th. The city's investment is seen as a wise move, shifting from previous partnerships like the Kansas City Chiefs to a more tangible and measurable approach.
Branson Meadows TIF Final Plan Development Approved by Board of Aldermen
The Board of Aldermen unanimously approved Bill Number 6689 on its final reading, which pertains to the final plan development for the Branson Meadows TIF (Tax Increment Financing) district in Branson, Missouri. This plan encompasses a mixed-use development including commercial, educational, cultural, historical, recreational, hotel, nightly rental cabins, multi-family residential, and employment housing. The approval follows prior unanimous recommendations from the Planning Commission and the Board of Aldermen on preliminary plans. The final plan covers 11 parcels totaling 71.54 acres and is considered consistent with the previously approved preliminary plan, with no substantial changes identified in land use, circulation, development intensity, phasing, or overall configuration. The development is expected to include workforce housing units, with specifics to be determined during the permitting process. The approval also allows for a streamlined, single-stage review process for future planned developments, aiming to be more developer-friendly.
Get Weekly Development News of Branson
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news.
From $25/year
The Branson News archive
Board of Aldermen - Regular Meeting - 6/23/26
Board of Aldermen Regular Meeting
Board of Aldermen - Regular Meeting - 6/9/26
Planning Commission Special Meeting
Planning Commission - Special Meeting - 6/8/26
Planning Commission Regular Meeting
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news. Get your edge today.
GatherGov Market Intelligence
For Owners & Developers
See entitlement risk and deploy capital where there is the highest probability of return
For AEC
Win more projects by discovering opportunities before your competitors do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Branson ,Missouri Real Estate Development
Get Weekly Development News of Branson, Missouri | From $25/year