Media Releases

308 Result(s) Found

07.31.26 County and Independence School District hold press conference

For Immediate Release
July 31, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries
816-881-3085

Jackson County and Independence School District to Hold Joint Press Conference Regarding Settlement of Lawsuit

Jackson County, MO, - Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota and leaders from the Independence School District will hold a press conference on Friday, July 31, at 10:30 a.m. to discuss the settlement and dismissal of the lawsuit between Jackson County and the Independence School District.

The agreement resolves litigation filed by the Independence School District against Jackson County in the Circuit Court of Jackson County. During the press conference, county and school district leaders will discuss the agreement, its significance, and the collaborative path forward.

Press Conference Details

What: Press Conference on Dismissal and Settlement Agreement

Who:

Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota
Independence School District Board President Mr. Mondaine
Independence School District Superintendent Dr. Vickie Murillo

When: Friday, July 31, 2026

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Where: Independence School District Central Office 201 N. Forest Avenue Independence, MO 64050

Members of the media are encouraged to attend. Following brief remarks, speakers will be available to answer questions.

07.22.26 Jackson County Unveils New 1.5-Acre Sunflower Habitat

For Immediate Release
July 22, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries
Phone Number: 816-881-3085, Email: ajeffries@jacksongov.org

Blooming Tomorrow: Jackson County Unveils New 1.5-Acre Sunflower Habitat

Jackson County, MO, - Jackson County Parks will open its new 1.5-acre sunflower habitat to the public Thursday morning, inviting visitors to experience one of the county's newest conservation projects at Fleming Park. Designed to support pollinators and wildlife, the habitat also offers a stunning destination for nature lovers and photographers during peak bloom.

Created by the Parks Natural Resources Division and modeled after conservation food plots at the Missouri Department of Conservation's James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area, the project features more than 35,000 sunflower seeds donated by Pioneer Seed of Harrisonville, MO. The field is now at peak bloom, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

"This project showcases Jackson County's commitment to conservation while creating another beautiful destination for residents and visitors to enjoy," said Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota. "These sunflowers support the pollinators and wildlife that are vital to a healthy ecosystem, and we're proud to offer a space where people can connect with nature while learning about the importance of habitat restoration."

The sunflower habitat will be open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Visitors are encouraged to take photographs, but please do not harvest the sunflowers.

MEDIA ADVISORY

Media interested in covering the opening of Jackson County's new sunflower habitat or scheduling interviews about the conservation project should contact:

Angie Jeffries Director of Communications ajeffries@jacksongov.org

Interviews with Jackson County Parks staff can be arranged upon request.

Location: Fleming Park near the intersection of SE Park Road and Liggett Cove Road. Enter the park from Liggett Cove Road, continue to SE Park Road, then turn right at the "T" intersection toward Sailboat Cove. Limited parking is available at the Augie Phase II Trailhead across from the habitat.

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Jackson County Closer to Resolving Property Tax Class Action Lawsuit

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries Director of Communications
ajeffries@jacksongov.org; (816) 881-3085

Jackson County Moves Closer to Resolving Property Tax Class Action Lawsuit

Jackson County, Mo. — Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota will hold a press conference on Thursday, July 23, at 10:00 a.m. at the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence to provide an update on the class action lawsuit stemming from the significant property assessment increases over the past three years.

County Executive LeVota will be joined by Attorney Ken McClain of Humphrey, Farrington & McClain, P.C. Together, they will discuss the progress made in the litigation, outline the agreement that has been reached, and provide details on the next steps toward resolving the case.

What: Press Conference – Property Tax Class Action Lawsuit Update

Who: Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota and Attorney Ken McClain, Humphrey, Farrington & McClain, P.C.

When: Thursday, July 23, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Where: Historic Truman Courthouse, Independence, Missouri (Maple Street Side of the building across from Pharaoh Cinema).

Members of the media are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early to allow time for setup. Following the announcement, County Executive LeVota and Attorney McClain will be available to answer questions from the media.

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07.13.26 Executive Signs Order Canceling Delinquent Land tax Sale

For Immediate Release
July 13th, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries
Phone Number: 816-881-3085 ajeffries@jacksongov.org

County Executive Phil LeVota Signs Executive Order Canceling August Delinquent Land Tax Sale

Jackson County, MO, - Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota today signed Executive Order 26-31, under the authority granted to him by the Jackson County Charter, canceling the August 2026 delinquent land tax sale.

The Executive Order was issued to ensure that Jackson County's property tax records and tax bill calculations are as accurate as possible before any property is offered for sale because of delinquent taxes.

Each summer, Jackson County conducts a delinquent land tax sale for properties with three consecutive years of unpaid property taxes. This year's sale includes properties with delinquent taxes from 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Since taking office more than eight months ago, County Executive LeVota has made resolving Jackson County's property tax challenges a top priority. During that time, the County's Collection Department has completed an extensive review of property tax records and tax bill calculations while continuing to carry out its daily responsibilities. Although significant progress has been made, the County Executive believes it is essential that every reasonable effort be made to ensure the accuracy of tax records before moving forward with a delinquent land tax sale.

"Taking someone's property through a tax sale is one of the most serious actions a county government can take," said County Executive Phil LeVota. "If there is even one taxpayer whose property could be affected because of an inaccurate tax record or tax bill calculation, that's one too many. Before the County exercises that authority, I want to be confident we have done everything possible to ensure our records are accurate."

The delinquent land tax sale is a function of Jackson County's Collection Department and represents one step in the County's tax collection process. The Executive Order pauses that process to allow the Collection Department to complete its work and verify that County tax records accurately reflect all necessary tax bill calculations before proceeding with a delinquent land tax sale.

"Our team has worked tirelessly over the past eight months to improve the accuracy of our tax records while continuing to serve taxpayers every day," LeVota said. "The collection process has many layers, and while we are moving as quickly as possible, accuracy must come first when someone's property rights are involved. I believe the people of Jackson County deserve a government that gets it right."

The cancellation of the August delinquent land tax sale does not forgive or eliminate delinquent property taxes. Property owners remain responsible for any taxes lawfully owed. This action ensures that the County's collection process is based on the most accurate and up-to-date tax records possible before any property is subject to a delinquent land tax sale.

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07.06.26 County Executive signs order protecting property tax credits

For Immediate Release
July 4th, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries
Phone Number: 816-881-3085 ajeffries@jacksongov.org

Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota Signs Executive Order to Protect Property Tax Credits for Taxpayers

Jackson County, MO, - On Independence Day, Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota signed Executive Order 26-27 to formally implement his property tax credit program addressing the 2023 and 2024 property tax assessment errors and protecting tax credits for more than 200,000 Jackson County taxpayers.

The Executive Order establishes the County's property tax credit program and directs the implementation of tax credits over the next three years as a fiscally responsible approach to correcting the assessment errors while minimizing the financial impact on schools, cities, libraries, and other taxing jurisdictions.

"The taxpayers of Jackson County were promised relief, and today I am keeping that promise," said County Executive Phil LeVota. "This Executive Order ensures taxpayers receive the tax credits they are owed while balancing the financial responsibilities of our local governments."

LeVota said the Executive Order is consistent with the authority granted to the County Executive under the Jackson County Charter to correct errors in assessment and tax records.

"Correcting these errors means more than changing numbers in a database," LeVota said. "It means making taxpayers whole. These dollars belong to the taxpayers, and they deserve every penny they are owed."

Earlier this week, the Jackson County Legislature held a public hearing regarding the property tax credit proposal. Following that hearing, LeVota said he remains convinced the three-year tax credit program is the fairest and most fiscally responsible solution for taxpayers and local taxing jurisdictions alike.

The County Executive is encouraging the Jackson County Legislature to adopt an ordinance codifying the tax credit program to provide long-term certainty for taxpayers.

To mark the signing of Executive Order 26-27, County Executive LeVota recorded a Fourth of July video message explaining the purpose of the Executive Order and the importance of protecting tax relief for Jackson County taxpayers.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/2dLBMsy0uh8?si=ptwIpqeuLlqHrnEb

06.26.26 Celebrate Independence Day at Missouri Town

For Immediate Release
June 26, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries Director of Communications
Phone Number 816-881-3085

Jackson County Parks Celebrates Independence Day at Missouri Town Living History Museum

Jackson County, MO, - As the nation celebrates America's 250th birthday and Jackson County celebrates its 200th year throughout 2026, Jackson County Parks invites families to celebrate Independence Day the way Missourians did more than 150 years ago at Missouri Town Living History Museum on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Visitors will experience a traditional 19th-century Independence Day celebration featuring a patriotic parade, historic demonstrations, live music, hands-on crafts, and old-fashioned children's games. Costumed interpreters throughout the museum will bring history to life, offering families a fun and educational way to celebrate the holiday. Hot dogs and beverages will be available for cash-only purchase.

"Few communities have the opportunity to celebrate milestones like these," said Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota. "This Fourth of July, we honor 250 years of the United States while also celebrating 200 years of Jackson County throughout 2026. Missouri Town offers families a unique opportunity to experience history firsthand, reflect on the traditions that shaped our community, and celebrate the freedoms that continue to unite us."

What: Independence Day Celebration

When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Where: Missouri Town Living History Museum 8010 East Park Road Lee's Summit, MO 64064

Admission:

Adults – $8
Children (5–13) – $4
Seniors (62 and older) – $4
Children 4 and under – Free

For more information about this event and other Jackson County Parks programs, visit makeyourdayhere.com.

06.04.26 Fort Osage Invites Families to "Fun on the Bluff" June 13

For Immediate Release
June 4, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries

Phone: 816-881-3085 ajeffries@jacksongov.org

Fort Osage National Historic Landmark Invites Families to “Fun on the Bluff” June 13

Jackson County, MO, -Jackson County Parks is excited to announce Fun on the Bluff, a family-friendly day of history, hands-on activities, and outdoor fun at Fort Osage National Historic Landmark on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Guests of all ages are invited to experience life on the early American frontier through interactive demonstrations and activities, including hearth cooking, tomahawk throwing, blacksmithing, arts and crafts, archery, atlatl dart throwing, flintknapping, textile spinning, musket firing, and more. New hands-on activities in the Education Center make this year's event even more engaging for families and children.

Food and refreshments will be available for purchase throughout the day.

“Fort Osage is one of Jackson County’s greatest historic treasures, and Fun on the Bluff offers a unique opportunity for families to step back in time while enjoying a day outdoors together,” said Phil LeVota, Jackson County Executive. “From living history demonstrations to hands-on activities for children, this event showcases the rich heritage of our community and the outstanding educational experiences available through Jackson County Parks.”

Event Details

What: Fort Osage National Historic Landmark’s Fun on the Bluff

When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

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

Cost: $15 per car $25 per bus

About Fort Osage National Historic Landmark

Built in 1808 under the direction of William Clark, Fort Osage served as both a military garrison and a trade center on the western frontier. Today, authentically attired historical interpreters bring the site’s history to life, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of military personnel, civilians, and Native American populations who lived and worked at Fort Osage.

Visitors can explore the reconstructed fort overlooking the Missouri River and enjoy exhibits in the 4,000-square-foot Education Center, which also features a museum store with books, gifts, and souvenirs. Fort Osage National Historic Landmark is owned and operated by Jackson County Parks and is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

05.28.26 Executive to Deliver Seven-Month “Halftime Report" Tomorrow

For Immediate Release
May 28, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries
Phone Number 816-881-3085 ajeffries@jacksongov.org

County Executive Phil LeVota to Deliver Seven-Month "Halftime Report" Highlighting Administrative Initiatives and Future Priorities with the Jackson County Legislature

Jackson County, MO. - Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota will hold a joint press conference with the Legislature Friday, May 29, to deliver a seven-month “Halftime Report” outlining the progress of his administration, ongoing taxpayer relief efforts, and the future direction of Jackson County government.

As part of the event, County Executive LeVota has invited members of the Jackson County Legislature to join the discussion and speak on several administration initiatives, highlighting areas where the Executive’s Office and the Legislature are working together to continue improving services for Jackson County taxpayers and residents.

During the press conference, LeVota will reflect on actions taken since entering office, including operational improvements, taxpayer-focused initiatives, and efforts to improve county services and responsiveness.

Topics discussed during the briefing will include:

• Updates on taxpayer relief efforts and future tax policy priorities
• The current status of collections, bill payability, and ongoing assessment coordination
• Efforts to simplify and modernize the taxpayer experience
• Future plans to improve coordination between county departments involved in assessment and collections
• ARPA funding updates and long-term investment priorities
• Broader goals and priorities for the future of Jackson County government

“Over the last seven months, we have focused on stabilizing operations, addressing taxpayer concerns, and putting systems in place that move Jackson County forward,” said County Executive LeVota. “This briefing will provide an update on where those efforts stand today, the progress we are continuing to make with our legislative partners, and the work that still lies ahead.”

County Executive LeVota said he invited legislators to participate in portions of the briefing to discuss how the administration and Legislature are working together to move several key county initiatives forward, particularly those focused on taxpayer relief, operational improvements, and long-term county investments.

WHAT: Jackson County Executive Seven-Month “Halftime Report” Press Conference
WHEN: Friday, May 29 at 12:30 p.m.
WHERE: Second Floor, Downtown Jackson County Courthouse, 415 E. 12^th St., Kansas City, MO 64106

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05.27.26 Executive Encourages Families to join Reading Program

For Immediate Release
May 26, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries
Phone Number 816-881-3085 ajeffries@jacksongov.org

County Executive Encourages Families to Join “Read, Score, Roar!” Summer Reading Program

Jackson County, MO, - Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota is encouraging residents of all ages to make reading part of their summer as libraries across the Kansas City region launch the 2026 metro-wide summer reading program, “Read, Score, Roar!”

The regional program combines soccer-themed excitement, dinosaur-themed fun and reading challenges designed to keep children engaged and learning throughout the summer months.

“Summer reading programs help children stay engaged, spark imagination and build lifelong learning habits,” said County Executive Phil LeVota. “Our libraries provide incredible opportunities for families to learn, explore and spend time together, and I encourage everyone across Jackson County to take part this summer.”

Earlier this month, during a “Fridays with Phil” visit to Paws & Pals, LeVota participated in a reading activity with therapy dog Sam to help promote literacy and youth engagement. See photo

The County Executive also thanked Jackson County Legislator Venessa Huskey for her continued support of literacy and youth engagement initiatives across Jackson County.

Participating library systems include the Kansas City Public Library, Mid-Continent Public Library, Kansas City Kansas Public Library, Johnson County Library and Olathe Public Library. Programs throughout the metro feature reading incentives, community events and partnerships with organizations including the KC Monarchs, Wayside Waifs and Pizza Hut BOOK IT!

Residents can learn more, find participating branches and register online at KCSummerReads.org.

05.26.26 Executive Encourages Families to Join “Read, Score, Roar!"

For Immediate Release
Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Contact: Angie Jeffries 816-881-3085 ajeffries@jacksongov.org

County Executive Phil LeVota Encourages Families to Join "Read, Score, Roar!" Summer Reading Program

Jackson County, MO.-Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota is encouraging residents of all ages to make reading part of their summer as libraries across the Kansas City region launch the 2026 metro-wide summer reading program, “Read, Score, Roar!”