Written by Scott Harris, downtown resident.
KCMO 311 is how city residents communicate a request for services to city government. Almost anything can be submitted to 311. A few popular examples among downtowners include missing street signs, nuisance properties, or unshoveled post-snow sidewalks.
Submitting an issue to 311 is simple and response times are generally quick (usually within 2 days).
The city offers several ways to interact with 311. My personal favorite is Twitter (@KCMO311), but you might prefer to report online or via the handy iOS app. You can also call 311 (literally dial 311), but in my experience, this is a less desirable option because it includes phone hold times and you can’t send a photo of an issue. I often see issues while walking around downtown and sending a picture is a great way to improve the accuracy of communication.
In addition to a photo when possible, including as many details as possible in your request helps expedite handling. You should include the following in your 311 submission:
- Location – An address or intersection. If not an issue involving a particular address, then give as much geographical detail as possible (which corner, side of the street, etc.).
- Description – What needs the city’s attention? This can be nearly anything, from nuisance properties to broken sidewalks and missing or incorrect street signs.
- Contact – Include your contact information so the appropriate city department can contact you with follow-up questions and to alert you when the issue has been resolved.
After submitting a request to 311, you’ll receive a case number allowing both you and the city to track your case to resolution. Once again, you can call 311 with your case number or, better yet, use the handy 311 status tracker to see where your case stands. You can also follow-up if you need to share additional information, you’re dissatisfied with 311’s resolution of your case, or you simply need more information.
Using 311 helps inform city departments of items requiring their attention. As is often said, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. Judicious use helps abate nuisance issues and expedite needed repairs, making for a safer and more attractive downtown for visitors and residents alike.
The 311 website can also help you with lots of additional topics that don’t require a service request, for example scheduling a bulky item trash pickup, finding your regular trash day, accessing water services, and Municipal Court information.