Kansas City & Jackson County Jail Collab Moves Forward

We've talked about Kansas City building a new jail for years on www.TonysKansasCity.com and now we take a look at the project moving forward despite more than a few complaints and the reality the voters rarely give politicos any credit for building these kind of desperately needed facilities.

Check the presser that powers most of the coverage on the topic this week . . .  

Jackson County Legislature approves sale of land for KCMO detention center

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. today announced the County Legislature’s approval of the sale of land adjacent to the County’s under-construction jail to the City of Kansas City, Missouri. This decision will allow Kansas City to build a new detention center tailored to the unique populations it serves, complementing the County’s facility, which will primarily house individuals charged with serious felonies awaiting trial.

“I want to thank the Jackson County Legislature for their support of this important collaboration,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The sale of this land reflects our shared commitment to public safety and responsible stewardship of public resources. The City’s new facility will be more attuned to the populations they serve, addressing their specific needs, while our facility focuses on individuals facing serious felony charges.”

County Executive White noted that consultants, along with both City and County staff, recommended separate facilities as the best approach to meet the operational and public safety needs of both governments.

“This solution reflects careful consideration and collaboration and it ensures we are serving our community in the most effective way possible,” White said.

Kansas City Councilman Crispin Rea praised the County Executive and County Legislature for their leadership. “This agreement is a testament to the leadership of County Executive White, his dedicated staff, and the Legislature,” said Councilman Rea, 4th District At-Large. “The County Executive’s professionalism and thoughtful approach have made this partnership possible and I am confident it will serve the best interests of our residents.”

Deputy City Manager Kimiko Gilmore emphasized the mutual benefits of the agreement. “This is a win-win for both Jackson County and Kansas City,” said Gilmore. “By building separate facilities, each tailored to specific needs, we’re ensuring a more effective system that addresses public safety and community welfare.”

County Administrator Troy Schulte highlighted the forward-thinking nature of the decision. “This is about planning for the future and making decisions that will serve our residents for decades to come,” said Schulte. “This agreement represents the kind of collaboration that makes our region stronger.”

The approval marks a significant milestone in the County’s broader efforts to modernize its criminal justice infrastructure. By facilitating the construction of a new detention center, the agreement strengthens the partnership between the County and City while addressing long-term needs for secure and humane detention facilities.

The newly approved agreement ensures that Kansas City can proceed with the development of its detention center adjacent to the County’s new jail. This strategic alignment will streamline operations, enhance collaboration between the two entities, and create efficiencies that benefit the entire region.

For more information about Jackson County’s planned detention center visit www.jcdetentioncenter.com

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Developing . . .