06.09.25 County Executive applauds Legislature for 2025 budget passage

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
June 9, 2025 

 

Jackson County Executive applauds Legislature for unanimous passage of 2025 budget focused on community investment and equity

 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. today expressed deep gratitude to the Jackson County Legislature following its unanimous approval of the 2025 amended budget, a major achievement that reflects months of hard work, compromise and an unwavering focus on the people of Jackson County.  

The amended budget, approved 9-0, restores critical services and delivers historic investments in community needs, including public safety, affordable housing, nonprofit support and health equity. 

“While this process took longer than any of us wanted, I’m grateful that we’ve reached an agreement that responds to the real and pressing needs of our community,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The voices of our residents were heard in testimony, in conversations and in neighborhoods across our county. The message was clear – the needs are great and the time to act is now. This budget reflects that urgency and delivers on the priorities our community deserves.” 

White extended special thanks to Legislative Chairman DaRon McGee, Budget Chair Charlie Franklin and Vice Chair Donna Peyton for their leadership and collaboration in crafting a path forward that protects vital services while expanding support for those most in need. 

Importantly, the 2025 adopted budget does not include the millions of dollars in cuts that were part of the version the County Executive vetoed earlier this year. Instead, it restores critical funding and reinvests in services that residents rely on every day. 

Key highlights of the adopted budget include: 

  • Restoration of Essential Funding: Reinstates millions of dollars to prevent layoffs and maintain services in critical departments, including the Sheriff’s Office and County Counselor’s Office. 
  • Expanded Support for Nonprofits: Doubles outside agency funding from $3 million to $6 million, overseen by the Legislature, to assist nonprofit partners addressing housing, food insecurity, youth services, violence prevention and more. 
  • Strategic Use of Marijuana Sales Tax Revenue: Allocates over $10 million in voter-approved revenue to fund initiatives such as affordable housing, broadband expansion, health equity and enhanced nonprofit funding. 

White emphasized that the adopted budget not only addresses urgent needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term community impact. He also took a moment to recognize the dedicated efforts of County associates and his staff throughout the challenging budget process.

“I want to thank our County associates and my team for their hard work behind the scenes,” said White. “Their steady focus and deep commitment to serving the people of Jackson County played a vital role in making today’s unanimous passage possible.”

 

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