MO HB759

Repeals and replaces sections 71.012, 71.014, and 71.015 of Missouri law governing city, town, and village annexation procedures.

Prohibits annexation if during the preceding five years the city annexed other property where the same person owned both the previously annexed property and the area proposed for annexation, and the new area shares a boundary with the city that was part of the perimeter of the previously annexed property.

Allows cities in counties bordering a first-classification charter county with population exceeding 650,000 to annex contiguous and compact unincorporated areas upon verified petition signed by all fee owners, without requiring voter approval.

Requires cities seeking to annex over objections to hold public hearings, provide notice to property owners by certified mail, file a declaratory judgment action in circuit court, and obtain approval by majority vote in both the city and the annexed area (or two-thirds on a second vote).

Establishes a cause of action for deannexation if a city fails to provide promised services or comply with zoning plans within three years of annexation becoming effective, unless prevented by an act of God.