Archive: 2023 Media Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 17, 2023

Jackson County Executive takes drug makers to court on behalf of residents

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is announcing that Jackson County has filed a lawsuit related to the pricing of insulin. The county’s lawsuit alleges that insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers engage in unlawful rebate schemes that unnecessarily drive up the price of insulin for consumers and healthcare payors.

For example, insulin has increased in price exponentially over the last 20 years, even though there have been no major advancements or changes in the drug or how it is manufactured. This is a problem unique to the United States. The average price per unit of insulin in America, across all types of insulin, is more than 10 times higher than the average in other countries.

“Diabetes is a major health concern in Jackson County, which is why in our expanded Our Healthy KC Eastside programming we will be prioritizing diabetes prevention and free supportive resources throughout the community,” Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The cost of insulin, a life-saving drug that millions rely on, has skyrocketed because of the greed between insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers. Our legal action is intended to tackle this problem and expose the scheme that has harmed thousands of Missourians.”

In Missouri, diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death and Jackson County is in the highest quartile of Missouri counties with adults diagnosed with diabetes.

Jackson County is suing the insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers for violations of Missouri law. The suit, a copy of which is attached, seeks damages and injunctive relief to address and stop the harm caused by the rebate scheme.

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Media: Interview requests with County Executive White can be made by contacting Public Information Officer Marshanna Smith, msmith@jacksongov.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 8, 2023

County Executive White approves 2023 county budget with limited line-item vetoes

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. today has signed into law Ordinance 5701, Jackson County’s 2023 budget, with limited line-item vetoes. These limited line-item vetoes, unlike Ordinance 5701 passed by the Legislature, do not cut existing county staff positions or salaries, reduce any county department’s budget nor violate state or county law.

“Members of the budget committee have said publicly that they prioritized life in their amended budget, but that’s difficult for me and the community to believe when, at the last minute, they cut millions of dollars in essential projects, programs and people,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “I have a responsibility to do what’s right and truly provide a better, more equitable quality of life for all county residents and that is the reason for my actions today.”

More than two dozen programs were amended, reduced or eliminated in Ordinance 5701 passed by the County Legislature. A comprehensive list can be found in County Executive White’s signing statement; however, the Legislature’s budget cuts include, but are not limited to:

• Existing County Associate Positions
• Our Healthy KC Eastside
• Jackson County Reproductive Equity Fund

• Free Veteran Admission at Liberty Memorial
• Westside Neighborhood Community Improvements

Because of the County Executive’s limited authority to appropriate funds through a signing statement or veto, he cannot simply propose an amendment to restore funding for programs or existing county positions and salaries as the budget committee chairman stated during the January 30 Legislative meeting. Such an amendment process would violate at least one provision in both the county’s code of ordinances as well as state law. 

“I am committed to working with the Legislature to fix the foreseeable harm that Ordinance 5701 has caused and will cause Jackson County,” County Executive White said. “It is important for the community, county associates and County Legislature to know that I remain committed to the priorities we have outlined and I will not move forward until Our Healthy KC Eastside, the Jackson County Reproductive Equity Fund, Westside Community Improvements and other arbitrary, capricious and politically motivated cuts are restored.”

Though Ordinance 5701 cut essential programs and people, the Legislature’s budget amendment proposed over $1 million in new funding for the County Legislature and offices under their control. Legislative budget increases include, but are not limited to, numerous new staff positions, salary increases for new and returning staff, increased car allowances, more lobbyists, lawyers and travel expenses, all of which are detailed in County Executive White’s signing statement. County Executive White is using his authority to reduce these budget increases, without jeopardizing any existing staff positions or defunding any programs or projects that have previously been approved by the County Legislature. 

The County Executive is also objecting to funding for outside agencies due to the lack of a competitive process. Such actions are in conflict with county policies, past practices and the current award process as outlined on the county legislative auditor’s website. Additionally, the Jackson County Counselor’s Office has determined that the County Legislature lacks the legal authority to increase the appropriation of the Health Fund. Therefore, County Executive White has used his line-item veto authority to reduce the appropriation and bring the county’s annual budget back into legal compliance.

County Executive White’s full signing statement of Ordinance 5701 is attached, as well as his 29 line-item vetoes and a legal memorandum from the Jackson County Counselor’s Office.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2023

Jackson County Executive announces limited operations during Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. is announcing today that county facilities and offices will be open for normal business hours on Wednesday, February 15. However, due to the Chiefs Kingdom Champions Parade, county departments will have limited staff to provide in-person or phone assistance to residents from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

The County strongly encourages anyone who has business to conduct at the downtown Kansas City courthouse to consider the parade’s likely impact on parking and access to the facility.

“Our associates are part of the heart and soul of Chiefs Kingdom and we want to give them an opportunity to celebrate this historic moment with our region, while also ensuring we continue fulfilling our mission of public service,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “Residents who need to conduct business with the County are encouraged to use the county’s online services on Wednesday or seek assistance at a different time or day.”

If members of the public do have to visit the downtown courthouse on parade day, they are encouraged to call ahead to ensure that their meeting or appointment has not been cancelled. The County’s main phone number is (816) 881-3000. Additionally, judicial and administrative offices of the 16th Judicial Circuit Court in Jackson County will be closed at all of its locations on parade day. Parties are encouraged to look on Case.net for rescheduled court dates.

Follow us on Twitter @JacksonCountyMO for the latest County news and updates.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2023

Jackson County invites community to Human Trafficking training workshop

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In an effort to combat human trafficking in our community and beyond, the Jackson County Administration and Jackson County Legislator Jeanie Lauer are hosting a Human Trafficking Community Academy. The event on Saturday, March 4 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Kauffman Stadium is free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided and attendees must register in advance.

“We’ve all been taught that if you see something wrong, say something. But how can you do that if you don’t know the warning signs of human trafficking,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “This event aims to change that so we can work toward putting an end to what is the second largest criminal enterprise in the world and growing.”

“An extremely high number of children are trafficked in the U.S. alone and put all of our children at risk,” said Jackson County Legislator Jeanie Lauer, 5th District. “Predators are everywhere, including right here at home in Jackson County. The County is privileged to have this unique opportunity to educate and help prevent human trafficking presented by experts in this field.”

The Human Trafficking Community Academy is designed from training provided to law enforcement and will teach attendees the skills needed to recognize human trafficking, how to report it, as well as equip and inspire the community to fight against this crime. Instructors Dan Nash and Alison Phillips, co-founders of the Human Trafficking Training Center, will lead attendees through the day-long training. Nash is a retired Missouri State Trooper in the Human Trafficking Unit and Phillips formerly served as director of the Missouri Attorney General’s Office Human Trafficking Task Force.

What:         Human Trafficking Community Academy
                   Sponsored by Jackson County Administration & Legislator Jeanie Lauer

When:         Saturday, March 4, 2023                       
                    9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Where:       Kauffman Stadium – Diamond Club
                   1 Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129

Cost:           Free Public Event with Lunch
                   Advance Registration Required: Click Here

Who:          Dan Nash and Alison Phillips
                   Human Trafficking Training Center Co-Founders

Contact:     Karen Guidici, kgiudici@jacksongov.org
                   Jackson County 5th District Legislative Aide

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 2, 2023
 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued the following statement in response to today’s announcement that pharmaceutical  manufacturer Eli Lilly will cap its out-of-pocket insulin prices at $35/month:

“This is welcome news to me and the residents of Jackson County, which is in the highest quartile of Missouri counties with adults diagnosed with diabetes. I strongly urge other drug makers to follow Eli Lilly’s price adjustment so we can put an end to the insulin price-gouging that is forcing many to choose between buying their life-saving medication or food to eat.

“The County continues its lawsuit against insulin manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers, which alleges they engaged in unlawful rebate schemes that unnecessarily increased the price of insulin for consumers and healthcare payors. We remain committed to holding them accountable for the harm they’ve caused and fighting on behalf our residents until insulin prices are affordable.”

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 6, 2023

County offices in Independence closed Tuesday and Wednesday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Jackson County Historic Truman Courthouse, located at 112 W. Lexington Avenue in Independence, will be closed on Tuesday, March 7 and Wednesday, March 8 due to a plumbing issue at the building that caused the restrooms to be unusable. Repairs are currently underway and the building is expected to reopen on Thursday, March 9 at 8:00 a.m.

The Assessment, Recorder of Deeds and Collection departments have offices inside the Historic Truman Courthouse. Residents who need to conduct business with these departments are encouraged to go online at www.jacksongov.org or visit the Jackson County Courthouse at 415 East 12^th Street in downtown Kansas City.

It is important to remember that this closure does not impact the 16^th Circuit Court or County Municipal Court, both of which operate from the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse located at 308 West Kansas Avenue in Independence.

The County will provide additional updates on its website and social media platforms.

March 7, 2023

Joint Statement on Federal Court Decision

The following is a joint statement from St. Louis City Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page, and Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. regarding today’s federal court ruling on HB 85. St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and Jackson County came together to file a lawsuit against the legislation in 2021:

"A bipartisan majority of Missourians want the state legislature to enact common-sense gun safety measures, like red flag laws and background checks, to help keep families across our state safe. But year after year, Jefferson City politicians have continued to pass dangerous bills that make it more difficult to prevent gun violence in our communities. HB 85 makes it harder for police to do their jobs and strips away critical tools we need to protect our neighborhoods. We are encouraged by the federal court ruling today declaring it unconstitutional.” 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2023

County offices in Independence remain closed for the week

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – County offices at the Jackson County Historic Truman Courthouse, 112 W. Lexington Avenue in Independence, will be closed for the remainder of this week. Repairs are ongoing to resolve a plumbing issue that caused the restrooms to be unusable. The County expects to reopen the building to the public on Monday, March 13 at 8:00 a.m.

The Assessment, Recorder of Deeds and Collection departments have offices inside the Historic Truman Courthouse. Residents who need to conduct business with these departments are encouraged to go online at www.jacksongov.org or visit the Jackson County Courthouse at 415 East 12^th Street in downtown Kansas City.

It is important to remember that this closure does not impact the 16^th Circuit Court or County Municipal Court, both of which operate from the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse located at 308 West Kansas Avenue in Independence.

The County will provide additional updates on its website and social media platforms.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Legislator Donna Peyton and Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. are excited to recognize and celebrate the Kansas City Chiefs Wheelchair Football Team for its achievements in the USA Wheelchair Football League. A resolution and proclamation will be presented to the team at the downtown Jackson County Courthouse on Tuesday, March 14 at 3:00 p.m. Media is invited to attend.

What:         Jackson County Celebrates Achievements of Kansas City Chiefs Wheelchair Football Team

When:         Tuesday, March 14, 2023

Time:          3:00 p.m.

Where:       Jackson County Courthouse, 2nd Floor Legislative Chambers
415 E. 12th Street
Kansas City, MO 64106

The Kansas City Chiefs Wheelchair Football Team is one of the four initial teams formed in 2019 with the launch of the USA Wheelchair Football League by Move United. With the support of an NFL-BWF (Bob Woodruff Foundation) Healthy Lifestyles and Creating Communities Grant, the League became the first organized opportunity for adults with disabilities to play wheelchair football.

Since then, the Kansas City Chiefs Wheelchair Football Team has the best winning percentage in the league, posting an overall record of 19-4 in the first two years of gameplay. The team has more than 20 local participants, many of whom qualify for the travel roster to compete in tournaments across the country, such as Tampa Bay and Salt Lake City. This year’s championship tournament was held in Phoenix the week of the Super Bowl as a part of Super Bowl Fan Experience Week. The Kansas City Chiefs Wheelchair Football Team beat the LA Rams 7-0 in the championship tournament game, after losing to the same team a year ago.

The USA Wheelchair Football League has now grown to 11 teams with two more to be added for the 2023-2024 season. Rules closely resemble NFL gameplay with adaptations specifically chosen to ensure the integrity and safety of the game, while keeping it fast paced and enjoyable for players and spectators. Veteran participation is required for teams to qualify for grant funding. There are 10 disabled veterans who participate in programming in Kansas City.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 15, 2023

New turf installation at Frank White, Jr. Sports Complex sets stage for ribbon cutting ceremony

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In an effort to build a better player experience, Jackson County Parks + Rec is excited to announce a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the completion of its synthetic turf installation project at the Frank White, Jr. Sports Complex. Community members, sports enthusiasts and the media are invited to join us on Saturday, March 25 at 2:30 p.m. on Field 3 at the Frank White, Jr. Sports Complex, 3901 SW Longview Road.

The exciting improvement project, completed by locally owned Mid-America Sports, included removal of the existing aglime and the installation of new, blue synthetic turf on five infields. Players and visitors will also enjoy five newly installed LED wireless scoreboards. More than 2,000 games will be hosted this year at the park between adult softball leagues, adult softball tournaments, boys baseball tournaments and girls fastpitch softball tournaments.  

“We are on budget and, equally important, on time with this project as we get ready to kick-off the 2023 spring tournament season,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “As the namesake of this facility, I am extremely excited about upgrading the player experience to ensure fun and safe fields for athletes. I’d like to thank our Parks + Rec Department for their visionary leadership and Mid-America Sports for successfully executing this project that will maintain our standing as one of the best places to play in our area.”

The installation of synthetic turf completes a comprehensive capital improvement project at the park that began in 2016 when County Executive White assumed office. Since 2016, the following improvements have been made:

• Installation of new dugouts and dugout benches (2016)
• Fence updates, including added height to the back stops to accommodate boys baseball (2016)
• Installation of shade structures over each set of bleachers (2016)
• Installation of new batting tunnel (2016)
• Installation of new concrete around each backstop, bleacher area and dugout (2016)
• Installation of new bleachers (2018)
• Installation of a new LED Musco lighting system (2022)
• Installation of new LED wireless scoreboards (2023)
• Installation of synthetic turf (2023)

What: New Turf Project Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

When: Saturday, March 25, 2023

Time: 2:30 p.m.

Where: Frank White, Jr. Sports Complex – Field #3
3901 SW Longview Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081

Located in beautiful Longview Lake Park in Lee's Summit, Missouri, the Frank White, Jr. Softball Complex is a state-of-the-art softball facility, featuring five lighted, fully irrigated fields. A full-service concession/observation pavilion, picnic tables and restroom facility are also on site.

In 1989, the Jackson County Legislature renamed the complex after County Executive White in recognition of outstanding baseball career with the Kansas City Royals and his contributions to the community. The Frank White, Jr. Sports Complex hosts adult softball leagues, girls’ softball and boys’ baseball tournaments.

Media can contact Jackson County Public Information Officer Marshanna Smith at (816) 881-1391 or msmith@jacksongov.org.