Kathleen Pointer News Today

Districts can't afford to maintain facilities or add to curricula as business tax breaks go to large corporate entities.

An estimated 95% of US cities provide economic development tax incentives to woo corporate investors, taking billions away from schools.

KCATA's development arm aims to create walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods with easy access to public transit. But some Kansas City leaders are concerned about the agency's use of tax incentives — and lack of affordable housing requirements.

Critics say that the streamlined tax incentive process under Ordinance 220701 would prevent Kansas City residents from providing input on developments that could affect their children’s schools or their own cost of housing.

“People say they move here because it’s the Westside, they like the culture. Well, you’re driving the culture away.”

“This ordinance does nothing to create affordable housing in Kansas City. All it does is create profits for developers,” said one of the dozens of opponents who packed the City Council chamber to oppose the mayor’s proposed housing changes.

Port Authority of Kansas City commissioners did not move forward with plans to award Lux Living tax incentives on a $55 million deal to develop apartments on the Berkley Riverfront after news stories detailed the developer’s past in St. Louis.

Port Authority of Kansas City commissioners did not move forward with plans to award Lux Living tax incentives on a $55 million deal to develop apartments on the Berkley Riverfront after news stories detailed the developer’s past in St. Louis.

As details emerge about Lux Living’s legal battles and complaints from its St. Louis property residents, Port Authority members gave a nod to the embattled developer. But one council member isn’t convinced.

As details emerge about Lux Living’s legal battles and complaints from its St. Louis property residents, Port Authority members gave a nod to the embattled developer. But one council member isn’t convinced.