Kansas City Council

Illegal dumping has been a problem in Kansas City for decades. Now, a year after the city instituted tougher penalties on offenders, Council member Crispin Rea says things are moving in the right direction.

Kansas City Council set the money aside to encourage small businesses, artists, and makers to move into the city's highly visible, but vacant, storefronts before the 2026 World Cup. “When visitors from all over the world visit next year, we need to be open for business,” one member said.

The Kansas City Council passed a resolution in 2023 that declared the city a transgender “safe haven,” in response to Missouri and Kansas restricting gender-affirming care. But one community leader says the city hasn’t followed through on that promise with material action.

During a public budget hearing, Kansas City Police budget officials told city council that $3.5 million would be enough to cover legal expenses. Two months later, the board announced $18.1 million in lawsuit settlements — a surprise to city officials, who don't have any control over the department.

The Kansas City Council has found its next city manager. Get to know Mario Vasquez, the first Latino to permanently hold one of most powerful positions in the city. Plus: Stay up to date with the latest political headlines from around the region.

The city council approved a plan that will begin the process of building a temporary jail facility. The trailer-like buildings will be completed before the World Cup and will house detainees until the city’s permanent jail is built.

Kansas City Council voted last week to make Mario Vasquez, a longtime city employee, as the new city manager. Vasquez joined KCUR's Up To Date to discuss his new role and his vision for Kansas City.

Big decisions loom at Kansas City Hall — including preparations for next year’s World Cup matches, building a new city jail and managing a budget amid financial uncertainties.

Mario Vasquez is the first Latino person to permanently hold the role. The city manager is one of the most powerful positions in Kansas City, and Vasquez will have to balance large projects with regaining the public’s trust.

Despite years of organizing and more than 12,000 petition signatures, Mayor Quinton Lucas placed a hold this week on an ordinance that would rename Troost Avenue to “Truth Avenue.” The street is named after Dr. Benoist Troost, Kansas City's first physician and a known slaveowner.

The ProspectUS plan lays out guidelines for the city to invest in the neighborhoods along Prospect Avenue — without displacing neighbors who live there.

Kansas City will fund its rideshare program for another month while city council determines a long-term transit solution, which may include bringing some bus services under city control.