Jackson County Exec Disputes Legislature Amid Fed Cash Deadline

This is the fight that www.TonysKansasCity.com wants locals to watch closely . . .  The courthouse is now on a very strict deadline to distribute funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

What we've warned for more than a year . . .

WHILST JACKSON COUNTY DESPERATELY NEEDS THIS MONEY, THE THREAT OF REFUNDING MILLIONS IN COVID CASH TO FEDS IS VERY REAL IF THERE'S NO COMPROMISE!!!

 Accordingly, and doing our best to keep our opinion and bias out of this discussion, here's the latest word on the topic from the courthouse . . .

Jackson County Executive Statement on Recent Legislative Actions

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. today expressed deep disappointment in the actions taken by certain members of the Jackson County Legislature, who advanced two ordinances that disregard both the county’s legal and financial safeguards. These ordinances, which violate state budget laws, county codes and legislative procedures, are clearly unlawful and will not be implemented. A copy of the County Counselor’s legal opinion is attached to this release, underscoring the unlawful nature of these measures.
 
“It is disheartening to see members of the Legislature ignore the clear warnings of their own legal counsel,” said County Executive White. “By moving forward with these ordinances, they have shown a lack of respect for their colleagues, the institution and the Jackson County residents we serve.”
 
If implemented, these ordinances would have significant and lasting consequences for the county’s financial health. The measures would:
 
- Deplete Jackson County’s Rainy-Day Fund, leaving the county without critical financial reserves needed for emergencies.

- Damage the county’s credit rating, which would result in higher borrowing costs and long-term taxpayer expense.

- Derail other essential funding by setting a dangerous precedent of disregarding legal requirements and bypassing standard budgetary processes.

The County Executive remains committed to working with all members of the Legislature to determine the best and lawful use of these funds before the federal deadline. Options remaining include the multiple pending legislative proposals County Executive White has endorsed as well as his compromise proposal allocating $32.4 million for community programs and infrastructure. However, today’s actions have increased the likelihood that these funds may ultimately return to the federal government, denying Jackson County the chance to invest them locally.
 
“I urge all legislators to join me in focusing on transparent, responsible decision-making that aligns with the best interests of Jackson County residents,” White said.
 
In addition to the legal opinion, a copy of the County Executive’s compromise proposal is attached.
 
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