Kansas City, Missouri - Tax incentive reform aims to hold all school districts harmless within the City of Kansas City and focus development in dis-invested areas.
*This news release was corrected to delete a reference to the Northland versus south of the river incentive burden.*
Councilmembers Melissa Robinson and Ryana Parks-Shaw introduce an ordinance to prohibit economic development property tax abatements within the boundaries of the Kansas City, Missouri, Independence, Center, Hickman Mills, Grandview, Raytown, and Lee's Summit School Districts. The ordinance exempts severely economically distressed census tracts.
The measure is designed to ensure all school districts are a valued partner in the development of incentive packages.
“I am proud to co-sponsor this legislation. As a product of the Hickman Mills School District and a mother of three, it is important to me to do all that I can to support our school districts in Kansas City. For years, tax incentives have robbed our schools, students, and teachers. When school districts have adequate funding, our students are able to receive a quality education, schools are equipped with resources and teachers can receive higher salaries. I hope my council colleagues also identify the need for this approach.” said Ryana Parks-Shaw, Fifth District City Councilwoman.
The ordinance is introduced at a time when Kansas City Public Schools have expressed increased frustrations regarding the approval of tax incentives.
“Now is the time to end our reckless practices of inadequate and unjust examination of the fiscal impacts economic development incentives have on our school districts. The ordinance ensures corporations and developers pay their fair share of taxes for K-12 education in Kansas City. Now is the time to do our part in protecting the future our children, who are our most precious and valuable asset,” said Melissa Robinson, Third District City Councilwoman.
UPDATED ON JUNE 29, 2020 TO ADD:
This has been assigned an Ordinance #200497 and will be heard in the Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee.