Exec Frank White Pushes Back Against EPIC Loss On Sketchy Downtown Real Estate Deal

Here's more context on this debate from insiders . . .

ARGUMENTS OVER NEWLY PURCHASED JACKSON COUNTY PROPERTY OFTEN OVERLOOK THE BUILDING WILL REQUIRE MILLIONS IN REPAIRS & RETROFITTING!!!

Access isn't great and the former corporate HQ just isn't suited for government biz. 

Still . . . In fairness . . . Here's an extended take on the situation from the Exec:

Jackson County Executive affirms commitment to modernization project amid proposal to sell new building for $1

Sale would require taxpayers to repay over $9 million to federal government

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In an effort to modernize government operations and enhance accessibility for residents, Jackson County has embarked on a transformative project to relocate administrative functions to a new facility. This strategic move aims to create a more user-friendly government experience, prioritizing efficiency and innovation.

The decision to relocate, approved two years ago by the county legislature, reflects a commitment to meet and exceed the expectations of every Jackson County resident. The project, fully funded with federal funds, addresses the needs of the community by offering free parking, enhanced ADA accessibility and improved navigation for streamlined business transactions.

"Our county associates work tirelessly to serve our residents, yet they often face challenges with cramped workspaces and outdated facilities," said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. "The transition to a new facility promises a modern space fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence."

Beyond modernization, this move demonstrates a significant step in honoring the heritage of the historic downtown courthouse. By relocating administrative functions, the physical burden on the courthouse will be lessened. This will allow for improvements to preserve the building’s historical significance without impeding the operations of essential court functions.

However, a recent proposal by a county legislator jeopardizes the project's intent by suggesting the new facility be gifted to the City of Kansas City, Missouri for one dollar. This proposal would eliminate streamlined government systems and may even require Jackson County taxpayers to repay over $9 million to the federal government.


"This dollar-deal proposal undermines the financial responsibility we've maintained throughout this project,” White said. “Despite challenges like inflation and construction market fluctuations, we remain committed to completing this project without putting any new financial burden on Jackson County taxpayers."

County Executive White is calling upon legislators and the community to stand together in support of this transformative project by rejecting short-sighted proposals and forging ahead toward building a better and more equitable government that is deeply connected to the people it serves and the history it protects.

###

Developing . . .