Good morning, this is Kansas City Local Pulse for Thursday, November 21, 2024.

We're starting with breaking news. The city has cleared a northeast unhoused encampment today, a move aimed at addressing homelessness in our community[2]. This development comes as local groups are working to meet the increased need for support services as Thanksgiving approaches.

In job market news, Kansas has launched a new system to process unemployment claims, which should help streamline the process for those in need[1]. While there are no major hiring announcements today, we're seeing a steady demand for workers in various sectors. The current unemployment rate remains a focus, but recent updates are not available.

Turning to real estate, there are notable commercial property sales, including the sale of 19 Kansas City-area Minit Marts, which will be rebranded to Phillips 66[1]. The KC South Loop project continues with drilling and digging test holes, indicating ongoing development in the area. However, we don't have the latest median home prices and inventory levels today.

From city hall, the KCPS board has approved a bond proposal, asking voters to help upgrade facilities, a significant decision that affects daily life for many families[1]. Additionally, a judge has dismissed an order on the rollback of 2023 Jackson County property assessments, which could have implications for local homeowners.

Weather-wise, it's a chilly day, but we're expecting clear skies, which should make for a pleasant day out. However, we're keeping an eye on the forecast for any changes that might impact your weekend plans.

In new business activity, a new Chick-fil-A has opened in Shawnee, and we're seeing a buzz around the upcoming premiere of a Chiefs movie, with Hallmark rolling out the red carpet[1]. On the other hand, Owl Hollow Farm is rebuilding after a fire and is concerned about the impact of equine therapy on their operations.

Looking ahead to community events, Cirque du Soleil's "Twas the Night Before..." is bringing holiday spirit to KCMO, and the KCZoo has announced a new $30 million giraffe complex set to open in May 2026[1].

In local school news, the Park Hill School District is in the final phase of redistricting, a move that has parents concerned about the future of their children's education[1]. Meanwhile, the Lee’s Summit Citizen Advisory Committee has recommended school consolidation, another significant development in local education.

On a positive note, superstar Billie Eilish has sent love to the 3 Kearney victims killed and injured in a recent crash, a heartfelt gesture that reminds us of the importance of community support[1].

Moving to today's crime report, there have been several incidents in the past 24 hours. A man in a wheelchair was hit and killed Wednesday night trying to cross U.S. 49 Highway, a tragic reminder of the need for vigilance on our roads[1]. Additionally, police are investigating a late Tuesday hit and run crash on 71 Highway in Kansas City, and a man was injured in a Tuesday night shooting in Independence.

This has been Kansas City Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.