Media Releases

179 Result(s) Found

Jackson County Executive Statement on Stadium Sales Tax
JACO_Media_release.jpg

January 22, 2024

Jackson County Executive Statement on Stadium Sales Tax

As the discussions around the proposed stadium tax for the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs continue to evolve, it is important that the residents of Jackson County are provided with a comprehensive understanding of the current situation and the stakes involved.

As evidenced in the last few days, the situation around the proposed stadium sales tax is rapidly changing. Notably, some legislators who initially supported my veto of the stadium sales tax ordinance have shifted their stance and now plan to vote for its override. This change is a stark reminder of the complex and high-pressure environment surrounding this issue. The escalating political pressure on our county legislators is a matter of concern and highlights the need for clear, informed decision-making.

The teams have taken a step forward by signing a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI). However, while this document provides additional information, it is crucial to emphasize that it is not binding and does not provide fair and equitable solutions to key unresolved issues. To ensure transparency, we will release a "scorecard" detailing these issues alongside this statement.

Among the critical unresolved issues are:

  1. Detailed Stadium Plans: It's vital to know exactly where the Royals plan to build their new stadium. The location will have significant implications for our community, affecting everything from infrastructure to local businesses.
  2. Investment Commitments: Understanding what investments each team is willing to commit to, including specifics on the nature, timing and magnitude of these investments, is essential. This information is key to assessing the long-term benefits and sustainability of the proposed projects.
  3. Chiefs' Commitment to Jackson County: We need a firm commitment from the Chiefs that they will not relocate their headquarters or training facilities outside of Jackson County during the lease term. This assurance is crucial for maintaining the economic benefits these facilities bring to our community.

 

Jackson County hosts second career fair for public service roles

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2024

 

Jackson County hosts second career fair for public service roles

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Following the success of last month's career fair, Jackson County is organizing another event to recruit qualified individuals to its team. Enthusiastic job seekers are encouraged to participate, bringing their resumes for a chance to explore diverse career opportunities within county government. This event provides a unique opportunity to discover and pursue rewarding roles in public service.

What:         Jackson County Career Fair

When:        Saturday, March 23

Time:         10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  

Where:       Jackson County Parks Ranger Recreation Building
     3310 Rennau Drive, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

 

The Jackson County Career Fair is a gateway to a diverse range of roles across various departments, including public safety, administration, park operations and courts. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with county government representatives, gaining insights into the essential work they do and the career paths available within the public sector. The list of open positions, which include full time, part time and seasonal opportunities, can be found at www.jacksongov.org/jobs.

An informational flyer is attached for your use. The Jackson County Career Fair underscores the county's commitment to building a skilled and dedicated workforce that serves the needs of the community.

County Executive supports Biden's nomination of Missourian for GSA
JACO_Media_release.jpg

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 6, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued the following statement today in support of President Joe Biden’s intent to nominate Robin Carnahan, former Missouri Secretary of State, as Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA):

“I commend President Biden on his intent to nominate Robin Carnahan to serve as Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA). In her time as Secretary of State, Ms. Carnahan focused on ensuring fair elections, including implementing Missouri’s first state-wide voter registration system and creating the Missouri Voting Rights Center. Since leaving office, she has effectively helped governments on all levels improve technology, enhancing the customer service experience and cutting costs. 

“Her impeccable credentials, commitment to public service and talent for using technology to make government services more affordable and accessible make her an outstanding choice to lead the GSA. I strongly support the President’s choice and am hopeful that members of Congress act swiftly in approving her nomination.”

The press release issued today by the White House can be found by clicking here.

 

34th Annual Fall Muster at Fort Osage National Historic Landmark
JACO_Media_release.jpg

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                         

October 19, 2021 

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Parks + Rec is excited to announce its annual Fall Muster at Fort Osage National Historic Landmark, which will be held this weekend on October 23 and 24. Visitors will experience the sights and sounds of a busy Fort on the Missouri Frontier. Reenactors will demonstrate musket firing, cannon firing, infantry drill, mail call and historic cooking.

What: 34th Annual Fall Muster    

When: Saturday, October 23 and Sunday, October 24
9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: Fort Osage National Historic Landmark
105 Osage Street, Sibley, MO 64088

Cost: Adults – $8.00
Seniors (62 and over) – $4.00
Youth (ages 5-13) – $4.00
Five and under – Free

Contact:   Fred Goss, Site Administrator
Jackson County Parks + Rec
(816) 650-3278

About Fort Osage National Historic Landmark

Owned and operated by Jackson County Parks + Rec, Fort Osage was built in 1808. Under the initial direction of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the historic Fort served a dual role as both a military garrison and a trade center. Today, authentically attired historical interpreters take visitors on a journey through this national historic landmark. Guests enjoy breathtaking views of the reconstructed historic site overlooking the Missouri River as they learn about the daily life of military, civilian and Native American populations at Fort Osage. Also explore 4,000 square feet of museum exhibitions in the Fort Osage Education Center and a museum store with unique gifts and souvenirs. Fort Osage National Historic Landmark is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Jackson County Executive’s Office statement on Rae’s Café
JACO_Media_release.jpg

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 8, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Jackson County Executive’s Office Chief of Staff Caleb Clifford has issued the following statement regarding Rae’s Café in Blue Springs:

“Jackson County is committed to protecting the health and safety of our residents. As part of that commitment, we have issued public health orders when necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community. On August 30, 2021, our county legislature approved a 30-day extension to our current health order which requires masks be worn indoors and will be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on October 7, 2021.

“Throughout the pandemic, our residents have continually shown an amazing amount of sacrifice, selflessness and compassion. In particular, our small businesses and their employees have acted heroically despite the risks they face from the virus and non-compliant customers. That is why we are proud to say that we have been able to work with every business owner when we have received complaints and have never had to seek a court order to ensure our public health order is being followed.  

“Despite numerous warnings and attempts by the County to work with the business's owner, she has refused to take corrective action and has made it clear that she has no plans to do so. That is why, for the first time during the pandemic, the County will be seeking a court order to close the business.”

Jackson County joins lawsuit seeking to block new state gun law
 
JACO_Media_release.jpg

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 15, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  –  In an amended petition filed today, Jackson County was added to a lawsuit with St. Louis City and St. Louis County that seeks to block the recently signed Missouri House Bill 85 (HB 85). The legal action is supported by County Executive Frank White, Jr., who asked the County Legislature to express their support through a resolution. The County Legislature last week voted 5-3 on Resolution 20708 expressing its intent for the County to join the litigation. 

“By voting to join our colleagues from the east side of the state, our County Legislature has made it clear that we will not stand by as our residents lives are put in jeopardy by Jefferson City,” said Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. “The residents of Jackson County deserve to have their voices heard, just like the people of St. Louis City and County.”

“A recent national study found that Missouri ranks second in the nation for the number of women murdered by men, a majority of them killed by guns,” said 2nd District At-Large Legislator Crystal Williams. “Because of that, domestic violence agencies in our community have every right to be concerned and terrified by this law because as we’ve seen, the state legislature refuses to pass anything to protect victims of domestic violence. I refuse to sit back and do nothing while this unnecessary law puts more innocent lives in danger.”

“You cannot do long-term undercover investigations and combat the violent crime happening in our community if you impair the ability of law enforcement to do their job," said 3rd District At-Large Legislator Tony Miller. 

“It has already been said by the federal government that this is illegal, yet the state of Missouri deliberately continues to defy the rule of law,” said 1st District At-Large Legislator Jalen Anderson. “Though I am very disappointed in the state’s reckless actions, I am proud that as the second-largest county in Missouri, Jackson County has chosen to fulfill its moral obligation to stand up when we see something is wrong. Nobody wants more violence in this community but that’s exactly what we’re asking for if we let this law remain.”

Jackson County is joining the lawsuit to protect its interests, uphold federal gun laws and keep residents safe. The County employs numerous law enforcement officers who regularly enforce federal gun laws and therefore, is at risk of civil penalty for upholding the laws of the United States.

Together, Jackson County and the City and County of St. Louis are seeking an injunction of unconstitutional provisions, and ultimately, for the law to be overturned on constitutional grounds. The entities will jointly argue that HB 85 violates the U.S. Constitution Supremacy Clause, which provides that federal law preempts state law and also is in contravention of other Missouri law.

Filed in Cole County Circuit Court, a copy of the amended petition with Jackson County is attached as well as the U.S. Department of Justice letter to Governor Mike Parson and Attorney General Eric Schmitt.

Jackson County Parks + Rec extends closure at Fred Arbanas Golf Course
JACO_Media_release.jpg

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 29, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Jackson County Parks + Rec is announcing today that the Fred Arbanas Golf Course closure will be extended, with a tentative reopening scheduled for June 11, to continue the greens restoration project on the Championship Course. The golf course was originally scheduled to re-open on May 4.

“I know this is not the news that any of us want to hear,” said Parks + Rec Director Michele Newman. “It was not an easy decision for us to make, however, it is necessary as preparing the best putting surface possible takes time and patience. We are taking every measure possible to ensure our patrons have the golfing experience they expect at Fred Arbanas when we reopen.”

This spring, Jackson County Parks + Rec became aware that some of the greens of the 18-hole Championship Course did not re-emerge after going dormant in the fall. It was determined that a pre-emergent applied to the greens caused a reaction, leaving spots on 95% of the greens. The best and quickest solution to restore the greens required laying new sod. An emergency purchase was authorized to order sod at a cost of approximately $28,000.

Jackson County Parks + Rec began the greens restoration process earlier this month. Unfortunately, much of the sod was dormant upon arrival and a percentage of the sod that was laid did not take root, leaving areas of the greens still unsuitable for play. The inclement weather and snow also hindered the growing process.

 “We have located additional sod locally at an approximate cost of $3,000 and are beginning the process of re-laying healthy sod, as well as fertilizing weekly to promote root growth,” Newman said. “The weather will also have an impact on our efforts, so we are hopeful conditions are better than they have been the past few weeks to allow us to reopen by our tentatively scheduled date.”

 Annual golfers have been notified of the closure and members will be compensated with an additional month beyond the period of time the course will be closed. Jackson County Parks + Rec will also honor requests for full or partial refunds to any annual patron who no longer wishes to be a member this year. The Par 3 course and driving range will remain open during this time.

 Media Note: Jackson County Parks + Rec Director Michele Newman will be available to the media after the legislative meeting on Monday, May 3.

 

Jackson County Executive statement on downtown baseball
JACO_Media_release.jpg

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 14, 2021 

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  –  Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. has issued the following statement today regarding downtown baseball:

“Before making it to the major leagues, I got a job to support my family during the offseason helping to build what is now known as Kauffman Stadium. I can still remember working on the upper deck of the unfinished stadium while looking down on the field and dreaming that I would one day be lucky enough to play in this amazing stadium in my own hometown. Not only did that dream come true, but I was lucky enough to call Kauffman Stadium home for my entire 18-year career. I have also been grateful to see my number retired and a statue built in my honor. I truly believe there is no one who loves this nearly 50-year-old stadium, and the fans that call it home, more than I do. 

“Now as County Executive, I am extremely proud to lead a county that is home to two of the greatest stadiums in professional sports. As I have said from day one, we have a responsibility to ensure the County is using the tax dollars entrusted to us by our residents as effectively and efficiently as possible. Part of that responsibility is being open to opportunities to improve the impact our investments are making in the community, including a potential downtown stadium.   

“Finally, I have been truly impressed by the thoughtful approach that John Sherman and other members of the Royals’ ownership group are taking. During our discussions, Mr. Sherman has made it clear that any decisions the team makes will be driven by the impact they will have on our community, in particular areas that have been historically underserved.”

Medical Examiner’s Office seeks help identifying deceased woman
 JACO_Media_release.jpg

 

Tattoo 1

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 9, 2021

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying a woman who was found in the 1100 block of S. Park Ave. in Independence, MO on January 9, 2021.

She is a white female believed to be in her late 30s or early 40s, with short brown hair and brown eyes. She is 5’ 2” and weighs approximately 143 lbs. She also has two tattoos – a unicorn on her left upper back and the name “Hannah” with butterflies on her right wrist. Pictures of each are attached.

If anyone has information about the possible identification of this woman, please contact the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office at (816) 881-6600 and ask to speak with an on-duty investigator.

 


Jackson County Health Dept Opens COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic
JACO_Media_release.jpg
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
Mariah Cox, Communications Coordinator, PIO
 
JACKSON COUNTY, MO (Oct. 8, 2021) – Following the recent FDA authorization and CDC recommendation of Pfizer boosters for certain populations, the Jackson County Health Department opened up a new, permanent COVID-19 vaccine clinic located at 3651 NE Ralph Powell Road in Lee’s Summit. The clinic is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
 
The new clinic offers:
• 1st, 2nd, additional and booster doses of Pfizer
• 2nd and additional doses of Moderna
• Single-dose of Johnson & Johnson
 
Whether community members are looking for their first, second, additional, or booster dose, they can make an appointment in advance or walk into this clinic. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome until 3:30 p.m. Clinic information and appointment registration can be found at jacohd.org/booster-doses. 
 
The new clinic also features drive-up vaccinations to serve those who have trouble standing for long periods or walking unassisted. To request drive-up vaccination, individuals must make an appointment in advance. Those receiving their 2nd, additional, or booster dose must bring their COVID-19 vaccination record card to their appointment. As always, COVID-19 vaccination is free, and no ID or insurance is required. 
 
Booster doses are currently available to those who have already had two doses of the Pfizer vaccine 6+ months ago and who meet at least one of the following criteria:
• 65 years or older or living in a long-term care setting (these persons should receive the booster); 
• 50 to 64 years of age with an underlying medical condition (these persons should receive a booster);  
• 18 to 49 years of age with an underlying medical condition (these persons may choose to receive a booster); 
• persons who are 18 to 64 years of age who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupation or institutional setting (frontline medical workers, teachers and first responders) may choose to receive a booster. 
 
Additional doses are available to moderately to severely immunocompromised people 28 days after receiving their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna. 
 
Community members can find additional COVID-19 vaccination opportunities on the health department’s website. 
 
###
 
The Jackson County Health Department’s mission is to offer services, provide programs and advocate for policies so that all people have a fair and just opportunity to be healthy. Find more information about how the health department is fostering a community where all people can live their healthiest lives at jacohd.org.
 
Page 1 of 18

Search

Back to top