Celisa Calacal
Missouri Government & Politics ReporterAs KCUR’s Missouri politics and government reporter, it’s my job to show how government touches every aspect of our lives. I break down political jargon so people can easily understand policies and how it affects them. My work is people-forward and centered on civic engagement and democracy. I hold political leaders and public officials accountable for the decisions they make and their impact on our communities. Follow me on Twitter @celisa_mia or email me at celisa@kcur.org.
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The 3/8th-cent sales tax extension would have helped build a new Kansas City Royals stadium downtown as well as fund renovations at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs. Tuesday's vote followed months of intense campaigning from both teams, and a concerted opposition from community and activist groups.
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The Kansas City Council approved a $2.3 billion budget to cover the fiscal year 2024-2025. Even with revenues growing, Kansas City plans to spend more money than it's taking in, on things like police and public transportation.
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Owners of the proposed Royals stadium won’t pay property taxes because the land it's on would belong to Jackson County. That means tax beneficiaries like the Kansas City Public Library may lose out on property tax revenue that makes up 95% of their budget.
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KCUR asked members of the Kansas City Council and the Jackson County Legislature how they plan to vote on the stadium sales tax on April 2.
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Andrea Dorch alleges in a recent lawsuit that Platt interfered in her job duties as head of the Civil Rights office in Kansas City. The lawsuit comes as the city is beginning to renegotiate Platt's contract as city manager.
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Platt was named one of three finalists for the role of Austin City Manager, but withdrew his application after Kansas City Council voted to renegotiate his contract. Appointed in 2020, Platt is the city's highest-paid employee, charged with executing basic city functions and overseeing the budget.
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For 10 years, Blip Roasters in Kansas City has been a place where bikers and enthusiasts meet, drink coffee, make friends and admire the scores of motorcycles parked outside every Sunday.
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The shooting took place early Thursday afternoon in eastern Independence. One suspect is in custody.
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In the wake of Wednesday’s mass shooting at the Chiefs parade, Kansas City lawmakers say they feel "helpless" to do anything about firearms or the high homicide rate. That's in large part because Missouri preempts local governments from passing gun control measures.
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The Royals' announcement answers a key question as Jackson County residents prepare to vote on whether to renew a crucial stadium sales tax. Their new stadium would replace the former Star printing press, but it would also take over blocks currently occupied by small businesses.