STAR Bonds: Final Phase

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Overview: Final Phase

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The Final Phase of STAR bonds in Derby is proposed for consideration by the City Council and the Kansas Department of Commerce. Kansas statutes governing STAR bonds require a process of notifications, publications, studies and public hearings. The first step was a City Council presentation on Sept. 14 and a public hearing on October 26, 2021 with the City Council authorizing expansion of the district. The next step was a public hearing on May 10, 2022 to consider the final project plan.   

The final phase for STAR Bonds proposed by Derby Destination Development, LLC consists of a family entertainment and multi-sport area. Site Plan. This includes:

  • A man-made public access lagoon with beach activities (scuba diving, wind surfing, snorkeling and other water sports), aerial park, and indoor and outdoor event venues.
  • 6 acre glamping site, offering glamorous camping on permanent platforms with amenities such as running water, plumbing, electricity, etc.
  • 150 room hotel, offering exclusive beach access and indoor pool.
  • Approximately 300 unit apartment complex. 
  • Senior living units. 
  • Retail, restaurants, and other commercial uses.
  • Relocation of RoKC climbing facility and BMX track adjacent to The Sandbox at Derby. 

The STAR bond program is a public/private partnership to use some of the state and local sales tax revenue generated within the district to facilitate development of attractions and related infrastructure (streets, water lines, etc.) that draw visitors to the area. 

Also, city transient guest tax revenue (paid by people who stay overnight in Derby hotels) is used to pay for construction of the outdoor adventure attractions. All businesses in the STAR bond district pay property taxes and income taxes. The expansion proposal would not increase sales tax or any other tax. No incentives other than STAR bonds are being proposed or considered, nor have any been approved for development of past attractions (Field Station: Dinosaurs, Derby Sports Zone, or the climbing and BMX attractions approved for construction in 2022). 

Anyone wanting more information may contact the Derby City Clerk at cityclerk@derbyweb.com or 316-788-3132. 

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