The Excelsior Springs Downtown Partnership (DEP) is working on securing a grant for the Litha Landing deck project after a setback brought up by the city attorney concerning utilization of funds. “The city attorney is trying to ensure that the city is utilizing funds properly,” said DEP’s Executive Director, Lyndsey Baxter, who noted the attorney fears DEP would be considered a general contractor if the city issues a grant. The city considered issuing grant funds to DEP in order for the group to oversee the rehabilitation of the stone wall and the repouring of the adjoining stairs for the Hall of Waters project. “DEP is not licensed to serve as a general contractor on the Lithia Landing project,” Baxter said. DEP and the city attorney continue to work through the hiccups as additional funding for the Lithia Landing project is being sought. Baxter is working closely with Excelsior Springs City Manager Molly McGovern to find a way forward in order to start the project after the…