Here’s how readers think Jackson County should spend $70 million
This is where bills go to become laws. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
How should Jackson County spend its remaining $70 million in COVID-19 relief funds? That was the question we posed to you, KCtoday readers.
After 300+ poll responses and 250+ Instagram comments, we noticed some trends in your thinking.
Pretty up our public infrastructure
The most commonly shared plan was to repair sidewalks + roads. Outside of saving your mothers’ backs from cracks in the walkways, your ideas for fixing up the county were vast.
“Divide it equally between four regions (NSEW) to promote tourism, thereby increasing revenue in the areas.” — Leslie H.
Did you know the KCMO has dedicated ~$150 million to improving sidewalks?
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Photo by City of KCMO
Help the unhoused population
Kansas City, Missouri is taking a big step toward helping its unhoused population by building its first permanent low-barrier shelter, and people love it.
This kind of development is what y’all want mirrored throughout Jackson County.
“Low barrier shelter for unhoused before winter.” — Amy M.
“Mental health and help for the houseless and actually having fully staffed people answering 911 calls.” — @elevate_esthetics_parlor
Expand public transportation
One camp saw these funds as an opportunity to build out public transit, especially as we prepare for some huge events.
“Transportation via rail to Arrowhead for the World Cup.” — @peggylkcmo
“Trains.” — @dirty.broke.bored
“Increased public transport will decrease reliance on individual automobiles.” — Jeg
Editor Charm was in this camp along with ~30% of our commenters.
“Why not give this to the teachers that help guide our youth?” — @wbcvisions
“Use for deferred maintenance issues for KCPS — children need a safe, comfortable space to learn.” — Ruth F.
Where the spending stands
Jackson County leaders are currently debating what to do with the money. Their plan must be finalized by the end of this year and all funds must be spent by the end of 2026. If that doesn’t happen the federal government will take it all back.
We’ll follow the money and keep you posted on how the dollars fall.
Dancefestopia | Friday, Sept. 6-Sunday, Sept. 8 | Wildwood Outdoor Education Center | $129-$550 | Enjoy its last few nights of camping and music.
Saturday, Sept. 7
Pickle Party | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 11 a.m.-10 p.m. | Servaes Brewing Co. | Free | Be the first to taste four new pickle beer releases: Pickle Juice Light Lager, Dreams in Color, JOCO Loco, and Two Oceans. Wash it all down with Point & Flat BBQ.
Bark in the Sculpture Park | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 1-4 p.m. | The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art | Free | Enjoy a free afternoon of art, yard games, and treats for both you + you paw-some pal. Pro tip: RSVP and you’ll be entered into a raffle.
Sunday, Sept. 8
Plaza 10K | Sunday, Sept. 8 | 7:30 a.m. | Ward Parkway | $12-$70 | It’s back. Register to run in one of the most scenic races in the metro.
Stroller Social | Sunday, Sept. 8 | 4 p.m. | Limitless Brewing | Free | Bring your kids and meet other parents on the patio — enjoy $1 off your first beer.
Monday, Sept. 9
Cartoon Bartoon | Monday, Sept. 9 | Vignettes | $6 | Sugar, spice and everything nice... these are the ingredients chosen to make the perfect pop up — a blast from the (cartoon) past.
Yoli Tortilleria is being rebirthed as Yoli Loncheria. The James Beard Award-winning biz is graduating from making tortillas to serving them. Still at 1668 Jefferson St., KCMO, its masa-centric menu will rotate out dishes like pupusas and burritos. (Kansas City Star)
Development
Better start practicing your swing now.Topgolf is opening a second location in KCK, near 94th Street and State Avenue. The new driving range will be two stories with 60 bays. A summer 2026 tee off is anticipated. (Kansas City Business Journal)
Open
Prairie Village just got a little fancier. Brooks Fine Jeweler recently opened at 8221 Corinth Mall. Now when you’re ready to say “I do” you can stop by for a locally-made engagement ring. Or, if you need to say “I’m sorry,” opt for a tennis bracelet. (Johnson County Post)
Trending
Is the Plaza getting a Trader Joe’s? Maybe. At the very least, “something like that size.” That’s what its new owners hinted at during the Plaza District Council meeting yesterday. Here’s a reminder of some of their other promises. (Kansas City Magazine)
Today Is
National Read A Book Day. Celebrate it by browsing our local bookstores — don’t worry, we made a list for you.
Seasonal
Imagine the crunch of crisp autumn leaves underfoot, the cries of geese flying south, the crackle of a bonfire. What if you couldn’t hear the sounds of fall clearly? This revolutionary hearing device makes sure that you can. (Test it out for 45 days with zero risk.)*
Theater
One of the most beloved family stories of all time is headed to Starlight Theatre on Tuesday, Sept. 17 through Sunday, Sept. 22. Channel your inner child as Peter Pan and Tinker Bell (plus the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily, and more) navigate crocodiles, pirates, and growing up. Grab tickets.*
Finance
It’s almost fall — that chill you feel should be from the air, not your credit card bill. Experts recommend these four cards with 0% APR for up to 18 months (almost two years) on qualifying balance transfers.*
Biz
Be part of the positive conversations
In an era of fragmentation, we’re focused on uniting the community. | Graphic by 6AM City
In a time where we’re being inundated by political agendas and polarizing ads, KCtoday proudly serves you positive media on the daily that focuses on all the good that’s happening in Kansas City.
We’re a place where people come to learn and fall in love with what’s local, from dining options to community events. We never accept political advertising, so if your brand is tired of being constantly bumped by those ads, consider us your safe space.
Happy Friday! I’m excited to kick off the weekend with my new Woobles kits. I’m crocheting a dinosaur. My hubby will make a fox. I’ll report back soon with our cute creations.
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