Jackson Co. Executive disappointed by misinformation surrounding April 2 vote
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A Jackson County, Missouri, Executive has made a letter sent to the governing body publicly available in which he expresses extreme disappointment about the misinformation that has surrounded the April 2 stadium sales tax vote.
On Thursday, March 28, - Opening Day for the Kansas City Royals - County Executive Frank White Jr. made a letter sent to the Jackson Co. Legislature about the ongoing discussion of the city’s stadium vote publicly available. He underscored his unwavering commitment to transparency and constructive dialogue as well as outlined his stance.
“Regardless of how the vote turns out this Tuesday, I remain committed to working with the teams to ensure their presence in Jackson County well into the future,” White said. “However, it is disheartening to witness the amount of misinformation being circulated by some proponents of the new sales tax initiative. To set the record straight, voters are indeed being asked to approve a new sales tax. It’s crucial that our residents receive accurate information to make informed decisions.”
In addition to his expressed disappointment over “confusion created purposefully by the new tax proponents,” White said the financial implications of the proposed measures are significant and warrant consideration. A 25-year extension of a 3/16% sales tax has been estimated to generate around $690 million in revenue.
Additionally, White said the proposal for a new 40-year 3/8% sales tax has been estimated to generate around $2.5 billion. The difference highlights the long-term economic impact of the proposals.
“Regardless of how the vote turns out this Tuesday, I remain committed to working with the teams to ensure their presence in Jackson County well into the future,” he said. “However, it is disheartening to witness the amount of misinformation being circulated by some proponents of the new sales tax initiative. To set the record straight, voters are indeed being asked to approve a new sales tax. It’s crucial that our residents receive accurate information to make informed decisions.”
White noted that his statement indicates a proactive approach to painting the rich sports history the county boasts. He also emphasized readiness to adapt strategies as necessary to meet community needs.
“We stand at a pivotal moment where truth, clarity and equity are paramount. I am committed to leading these efforts with the best interest of Jackson County and its beloved residents in mind,” White said.
KC Tenants, a group that opposes the stadium propositions, also made their voices heard on Opening Day. Leaders of the organization said they went to the game against the Minnesota Twins and dropped a “Vote No” banner behind home plate in Kauffman Stadium. The banner was dropped at the top of the fourth inning as the Twins went to bat.
“I love these teams, but right now, I don’t feel like these teams love me,” said Molly McGlynn, leader with KC Tenants. “They’re threatening to leave, but this is an empty threat. They didn’t leave in 2004. John Sherman said this week that leaving was ‘not on his radar.’ That money could be spent on affordable housing, public schools, mental health services, and more.”
During the rest of the game, organization leaders said fliered cars and spoke with visitors in the parking lot to share links to its voters’ guide. The group intended to draw attention to the sales tax vote on April 2 which they believe would cost residents $2 billion in 40 years.
“This is David and Goliath, especially in of campaign spending,” said Maya Neal, organizer with KC Tenants. “The teams are trying to buy this election, spending millions on TV and mailers. We don’t have that kind of cash, so we had to get creative in how we’re reaching Jackson County residents. This vote could affect us for the next four decades. We’re fighting like our city depends on it—because It does.”
Jackson County residents are expected to vote on the measures on April 2.
Copyright 2024 KCTV. All rights reserved.
