KCI Public Vote Group Falls Short, Tries Again
A neighborhoods-based group that wants a public vote on the future of KCI Airport came up almost 600 short of enough signatures to get their measure on the ballot. John Murphy said “Friends of KCI” hasn't given up yet. They have about a week to come up with the additional signatures.“Friends of KCI” is concerned that building a new airport terminal might take funding away from infrastructure and basic services.
Petition Drive Asks State To End School District
A group was collecting signatures on a petition asking the state to put a consulting firm's study of the governance of the Kansas City School District on indefinite hold. The coalition includes the teachers union and the NAAC.
Another group called "Do the Right thing for Kids" countered with a statement saying there had not been significant change in academic achievement and that parents and patrons need to reserve judgment until consultants finish their study of the district's problems. Meanwhile, the state department of education updated its guidelines for transfers of students who want out from unaccredited districts to adjoining ones.
Council Still Struggling With Charter Issues
The Kansas City City Council remained divided on the suggestion that the city do away with at large council districts. Mayor Sly James opposes the change, but doesn't oppose putting it on a ballot. James says he doubts that voters will change the structure of the council – or another proposal: giving the mayor the power to fire the city manager.
Third Court Decision Against MO Red-Light Cameras
Kansas City's red-light cameras took still another hit from the courts. A Missouri appeals court delivered the third ruling in a little over a month saying the cameras are unconstitutional. The court ruled that cities must prove who is driving a vehicle before issuing a ticket. The case could go to the Missouri Supreme Court.
Bill Would Create Bistate Moratorium On “Border Wars”
Business leaders applauded a bill proposed by Missouri state Senator Ryan Silvey that would end the economic “border wars” in the Kansas City area. The ban on luring companies across the state line would only apply to Metropolitan Kansas City counties... and only if Kansas will go along with it.
Company Plans 600 New Jobs At KCI Overhaul Base
The big job news in the area was planned new hiring in aircraft maintenance. Aviation Technical Maintenance said it would invest $57 million in the overhaul facility at KCI and hire nearly 600 people.
Unified Government Continues Effort To Buy T-Bones Park
The Unified government of Wyandotte county-Kansas City Kansas took the next step toward buying the Community America Ballpark – where the T-Bones play.
Retired Goalkeeper Nielsen To Start New Career as Soccer Coach
Just-retired Sporting Kansas City captain Jimmy Nielsen was chosen head coach of Oklahoma City's Energy FC.