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This is an editorial: An editorial, like news reporting, is based on objective facts, but shares an opinion. The conclusions and opinions here have been derived by the guest contributor and are not associated with the news staff.
Tightening Down Immigration Laws In a recent session of the House Special Committee on Homeland Security, discussions centered around several immigration bills and how to strengthen border security while ensuring that individuals entering the state are doing so through lawful ports of entry. HB 2470 addresses illegal entry, categorizing it as a class B misdemeanor with potential escalation to a class E felony for repeat offenses. The bill introduces additional offenses for illegal aliens and outlines penalties. Certain individuals enforcing these offenses are protected from arrest or detention in specific locations. HB 2523 defines the offense of trespass by an illegal alien, classifying it as a class E felony for individuals aged 18 or older committing certain offenses on public or private land. The bill exempts federally authorized individuals, and a violation does not establish probable cause for any other offense. HB 2367 specifies that illegal aliens committing offenses are guilty of trespass, with severity depending on the initial offense. Trespass is a class E felony for infractions and a class C felony for misdemeanors or felonies. The punishment for trespass is in addition to the initial offense's penalty and does not apply to federally authorized individuals. The discussions reflect heightened concerns over immigration and border security at both the federal and state level. Within days of the hearing, Governor Mike Parson announced the deployment of resources and personnel to the southern border in support of Texas Governor Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star mission. Defending Religious Freedom The Special Committee on Government Accountability recently conducted a hearing on two bills seeking to defend Missourians’ First Amendment rights concerning their faith and religion. HB 1959, also known as the "Missouri Religious Freedom Protection Act" focuses on protecting religious freedom. The bill would prevent public officials from shutting down meetings or services held by religious groups. However, it clarifies that this prohibition does not apply to religious groups planning or committing acts of violence. The bill also exempts emergency evacuation orders in cases of imminent danger, such as floods, fires, tornadoes, earthquakes, terrorist threats, civil unrest, or hazardous material incidents. Once the imminent danger has passed, religious services are permitted to resume. Notably, the bill emphasizes that this prohibition does not exempt places of worship from complying with applicable building and fire codes. Presenting his bill before the committee, the bill sponsor stressed the importance of places of worship, especially during times of crisis. “Our places of worship operate in a very unique way in this state, and we as government should not be in the business of trying to shut them down,” he said. HB 1518 focuses on safeguarding belief-based student associations within public institutions of higher learning. Its primary objective is to prevent public institutions from taking actions or implementing policies that would deny belief-based student associations the benefits available to other student groups. The bill explicitly prohibits discrimination against these associations based on their leaders adhering to sincerely held beliefs, practice requirements, or conduct standards. Furthermore, it grants belief-based student associations the authority to seek relief through judicial or administrative proceedings against institutions that violate the bill's requirements. The hearing provided an opportunity for committee members to deliberate on the merits and implications of both bills. The testimonies and discussions covered a range of perspectives, including concerns about potential conflicts between religious freedom and institutional policies in educational settings, as well as the balance between ensuring freedom of worship and protecting public safety during emergencies. Further deliberations and considerations are expected as the bills progress through the legislative process. Both bills passed through committee and now await an opportunity to be heard on the House floor. Debate on DEI Funding The House Committee on General Laws recently discussed five bills centered on the use of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) language. The primary objective of these bills, as highlighted by their sponsors, is to cease the allocation of taxpayer funds towards DEI initiatives within state bureaucracy. The intention is to defund DEI efforts and prevent the state from encouraging private sector adoption of DEI practices to secure state contract bids. One notable bill, HB 2567, introduced the "Do No Harm Act," which imposes limitations on DEI initiatives in medical higher education institutions. It bars funding for DEI offices, requires the redirection of these funds to merit scholarships, and mandates reporting on compliance. Additionally, the legislation outlines academic standards, necessitates transparency in courses, and establishes criteria for admissions tests. It also places restrictions on DEI requirements for licensing boards, disallows state contracts for entities mandating DEI, and permits legal action for violations, waiving sovereign immunity for a year post-violation. Another bill, HB 2569, prohibits state departments from utilizing funds for DEI programs that endorse preferential treatment or necessitate private sector DEI adoption for state contracts. Two other bills, HB 2619 and HB 2448, share similar provisions by preventing state departments from funding intradepartmental DEI initiatives and limiting mandates on private sector DEI programs for state contracts. Similar to HB 2569, HB 2365 bars state departments from financing intradepartmental DEI initiatives and enforcing private sector DEI programs for state contracts while emphasizing adherence to employment laws. The attempt to restrict the use of DEI language, as reflected in these bills, reflects a larger societal and political discourse. While DEI initiatives aim to address systemic inequalities and promote equal opportunities, critics express concerns about potential overreach, ideological bias, and encroachment on individual freedoms. Supporters of the legislation heard in committee argued that limiting funds for DEI initiatives in medical institutions is a response to concerns about enforced ideological conformity. They contend that such initiatives may impose specific viewpoints and restrict academic and professional freedom. Opponents emphasize the significance of DEI initiatives in addressing historical disparities, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring a diverse workforce. They see restrictions as obstacles to efforts in creating equitable and inclusive environments, particularly in educational and healthcare settings. Legislators Raise Concerns about Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission In a recent session, the House Transportation Accountability Committee delved into proposed legislative changes aiming to reform the governance of Missouri's transportation system. The bills raised concerns about appointments to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, suggesting potential amendments to its structure or complete elimination. The legislative efforts followed a contentious situation in 2021 when the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) sought to grant pay raises to its employees without prior legislative approval, resulting in a legal dispute. Among the proposed changes were measures altering the selection process for commission members. The Highways and Transportation Commission, overseeing the Department of Transportation, became a focal point of tension between the legislature and MoDOT due to the pay raise controversy. A lawsuit in 2021 arose from MoDOT's decision to increase wages without legislative consent, sparking political discord over transportation issues. The dispute primarily revolved around the allocation of funds, with MoDOT funded by appropriations under legislative control and revenues from transportation-related taxes beyond legislative reach. While not all committee members agreed on the proposed changes, there was a shared belief in the need for some reform. Committee members acknowledged concerns about MoDOT's responsiveness to constituents and discussed potential changes to the Transportation and Highways Commission. “Most of us feel like MoDOT’s not very responsive to our constituents’ concerns,” one member of the committee said. “No one is actually faulting MoDOT for the (employee) shortage because we all understand it. What we do see, however, is a seeming priority on things that aren’t necessary.” During the session, frustration was expressed regarding transportation issues in the district, with an emphasis on the need for accountability. There was advocacy for direct legislative oversight of the department, potentially eliminating the commission for increased accountability. “I do not have any issues personally with the members of the commission,” another member stated. “My issues are with the nature of the process, its lack of accountability and consistency.” Still, others argued against the complete dismantling of the commission, emphasizing the need to improve the existing system rather than destroy it. The Missouri Transportation Commission, established in 1921, operates on a bipartisan basis with members appointed by the governor, ensuring a balanced political representation within the commission. Closing Remarks In closing I would like to encourage my readers to continue to be involved in the affairs of government. Thomas Jefferson once stated that liberty is best preserved by the people themselves stating that they are the “only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty”. I whole heartedly agree with Thomas Jefferson on this issue. It is always my intent to keep my constituents informed and to retain open transparency. If you have any questions or concerns please contact my office at any time. You can reach my office by calling 573-751-1487 or via email at [email protected] (StatePoint) DIY activities, like swapping a lighting fixture or painting your living room, are popular ways to accomplish your to-do list. But as anyone who has tackled too big of a project knows, some jobs are best left to the professionals. That includes your dental health. You may have already seen DIY dentistry products, such as at-home whitening kits, mouthguards or teeth aligners. These often guarantee fast, easy ways to solve your oral health issues without the involvement of a dentist or an orthodontist (a dentist who specializes in the bite and alignment of your teeth). “Dental products are never one-size-fits-all,” said American Dental Association (ADA) president, Linda Edgar, D.D.S. “No two mouths are alike, which is why it’s important to work directly with an ADA dentist or orthodontist to determine the precise care that your body needs.” Skipping the dentist chair and “fixing” your teeth at home can lead to bigger, sometimes irreversible problems. For some people with more complex dental health needs, using an at-home aligner may cause bone loss, lost teeth, receding gums, bite problems, jaw pain and other damaging and permanent issues. You might also not be aware of other dental issues that should be addressed before you start moving teeth. “Patients are understandably drawn to these DIY treatments because they might struggle to fit a dentist appointment into their schedule or they assume at-home care will cost less,” Dr. Edgar said. “But when these products cause major issues, patients end up spending more time and more money trying to reverse that damage. Instead, trained ADA dentists and orthodontists can talk through patients’ budget concerns and offer them a wider variety of dependable, approved treatment options.” In between dental checkups, look for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. These have been independently evaluated by experts and recognized to be both safe and effective. When you choose one of these options, you can be assured that your care is backed by evidence-based research and generations of scientific knowledge. Whether it’s teeth grinding or a toothache, talk to your dentist before trying to solve your dental problems on your own. A dentist can help you find a personalized treatment plan that’s right for you, monitor your progress and make recommendations on how to manage your oral health outside of the office. To look for an ADA dentist in your area, visit findadentist.ada.org. “The ADA’s primary concerns with DIY dentistry are, and always have been, patient safety and quality care,” Dr. Edgar said. “Our job as dentists is to put patient health first.”  by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation The warmer days of early spring will soon be here, bringing on a prime fishing season. But few things are more frustrating than having a fishing reel break down when the fish are biting. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a free Fishing Reel Maintenance and Repair class from 6 to 8:30pm on Thursday, Feb. 29, at the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. This class will teach some preventive maintenance tips such as how to disassemble, clean, and lubricate fishing reels. John Rittel, MDC community education assistant, will also cover how to make repairs for common problems found in spinning, spin casting, and baitcasting reels. The class will help participants get reels in tip top shape for the upcoming spring fishing season. Fishing Reel Maintenance and Repair is open to participants ages 9 and older. Registration is required. To register, visit http://short.mdc.mo.gov/47p.  The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering a free Fishing Reel Maintenance and Repair class from 6 to 8:30pm on Thursday, Feb. 29, at the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. Photo credit: MDC  In-person absentee voting and absentee requests for the April 2, 2024 municipal election began February 20th. All voters can vote in person at the Jackson County Election Board at 110 N Liberty, Independence, MO, stating a reason. Two weeks preceding the election a reason is not required to vote in-person absentee. Reasons you can vote absentee:
For more information on absentee voting, visit Absentee Voting | Jackson County Missouri Election Board (jcebmo.org) Sample ballot for April 2nd municipal election: 04.02.24-Sample-Ballot.pdf (jcebmo.org)  Persons wishing to file a declaration of candidacy for the offices of Prosecuting Attorney, Sheriff or County Committeeman/Committeewoman, on opening day of filing, Tuesday, February 27, 2024, may do so at the Jackson County Courthouse, 415 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri. All filers must use the west entrance located on Oak Street, which will open at 7:00am.
Anyone wishing to file for office will be asked to form a single file line inside the building prior to proceeding through the security checkpoint. An associate from the County Clerk’s Office will distribute numbers to those in line. Filers will then proceed to the second floor and form a line in numerical order outside the glass doors marked LEGISLATIVE OFFICES. The County Clerk’s Office will open at 8:00am to accept declarations. Representatives from each political party will be present to accept filing fees. To expedite this process, each filer should have their current voter I.D. card needed to complete the declaration form. Filers for Prosecuting Attorney and Sheriff should additionally have the Department of Revenue (DOR) Form 5120, Candidate’s Affidavit of Tax Payments (not required for County Committee candidates). Each filer will approach the counter when their number is called, provide their filing fee receipt and complete all required paperwork. If you have any questions regarding this procedure, kindly contact Mary Jo Spino, Clerk of the County Legislature at [email protected].
It happens every year about this time. You check your mailbox, and there they are, among the Valpak coupons, grocery ads, and various bills … tax documents. Tax season is coming. Are you ready? Changes in tax laws have made it more challenging to claim donations to qualified charities through itemized deductions on your tax return. But there are still ways to make charitable gifts work for the causes you believe in while also saving on taxes. It has become much more challenging to itemize your taxes with the standard tax deduction for individuals, currently at $14,600 and $29,200 for married couples. If you fall short of the standard deduction, you can utilize your charitable giving to give you the boost you need to qualify by using a charitable bunching strategy. A charitable bunching strategy involves utilizing a Donor Advised Fund to group or “bunch“ your contributions that you would make over several years in one tax year. For instance, you could group all your charitable donations together every third year and contribute to (or establish) a donor advised fund with an amount equal to the total needed for three years of giving. In the year you contribute to your donor advised fund, you can itemize your deductions when filing your tax return and receive a sizable deduction. In the following two years, you can continue to support your favorite charities by making donations in the form of grants from your donor advised fund and claim the standard deduction on your tax returns. This method allows you to maximize the tax benefit of your charitable contributions. Additionally, with a donor advised fund, your donations are invested and grow tax-free, ultimately giving you the ability to donate more to charity over time. And if, instead of using cash, you utilize appreciated stock to make a donation into your donor advised fund, you can also avoid paying the capital gains tax on the appreciated stock. So, while tax laws may have made it harder to claim donations to qualified charities on your taxes when itemizing, a bunching strategy can help you exceed the standard deduction amount and maximize the tax benefits of your charitable contributions. At Truman Heartland Community Foundation, we are committed to helping you achieve your charitable goals while making the process of giving simple and stress-free. Reach out to our VP of Advancement, Cole Eason, at 816-912-4182 or [email protected], or talk to your financial advisor to explore how a bunching strategy can work for you.  FAQ: What to know about Missouri’s Democratic presidential primaryMissouri Democrats wanting to weigh in on the party’s nominee for president can either go to the polls this spring or mail in their ballots. A 2022 law eliminated Missouri’s state-run presidential primaries, leaving the parties to sort out their own ways to weigh in on the contests. Democrats decided on a presidential primary and gave voters the option to cast their ballots in person or through the mail. That in-person voting is set for Saturday, March 23. Republicans will host caucuses across the state on March 2, also a Saturday. Voting for other statewide primaries happens Aug. 6. The Beacon compiled a list of what you need to know to participate in the Democratic presidential primary. When is the Missouri Democratic presidential primary? What is the deadline to register to vote to participate? What is the deadline to request a ballot? What is the deadline to return my ballot? Where can I cast my ballot in person? What do I need to cast my ballot? When is the Missouri Democratic presidential primary?Missourians who are registered Democrats or unaffiliated voters can cast their ballots in person on March 23 from 8 a.m. to noon. You can either vote in person at a polling place in your county or request a mail-in ballot and vote from home. When is the deadline to register to vote to participate in the Missouri Democratic presidential primary?The voter registration deadline is Feb. 21. Missourians cancheck whether their voter registration is up to date at the secretary of state’s website. Or they can use the form on the secretary of state’s website to register online from a computer, smartphone or tablet. How do I request a mail-in ballot?Registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters in Missouri can ask for a ballot through this link or by calling 855-433-8683. What is the deadline to request a ballot?The deadline to request a ballot is March 12. Ballots will start getting sent to voters on Feb. 17. What is the deadline to return my ballot?Ballots must be back in the hands of party officials by 10 a.m. on March 23. Where can I vote in-person?The Missouri Democratic Party has not yet released locations for in-person voting. What do I need to bring to vote in person in the Missouri Democratic presidential primary?Voters need to bring a government-issued photo ID to vote in person. Who will be on the ballot?Joseph R. Biden Jr. Dean Phillips Stephen P. Lyons Armando Perez-Serrato Marianne Williamson Jason Michael Palmer Write-in candidates are not allowed, per party rules. This article first appeared on The Beacon and is republished here under a Creative Commons license. The following information is derived from Grain Valley Police Department daily calls service log for the week of February 12-20, 2024. February 12, 2024 PHQ Motor vehicle accident report PHQ Citizen contact 200 Blk Kim Ct Animal control February 13, 2024 200 Blk Sni-A Barr Citizen contact PHQ Citizen contact 100 Blk Eagles Animal control 400 Blk Cross Creek Suspicious activity 1000 Blk Deer Creek Agency assist 1000 Blk NW Highview Wellbeing check EB 70/MM24 Area Check PHQ Citizen contact PHQ Agency contact February 14, 2024 1600 Blk NW Jaclyn Dr Citizen contact PHQ Citizen contact 1600 Blk NW Hilltop Alarm 1200 Blk NW Ashley Dr Wellbeing check 1200 Blk NW Phelps Ct Wellbeing check 200 Blk Main St Dealer license February 15, 2024 1200 Blk Phelps Dr Agency assist Pamela/Highview Area check 200 Blk NW Jefferson Abandoned auto 40 Hwy/Sni-A-Barr Wellbeing check 1000 Blk NW Ashley Dr Parking complaint 900 Blk NW Scenic Dr Citizen Contact February 16, 2024 NW Valley Woods Cr Suspicious Auto 1000 Blk NW Scenic Animal at large 1000 Blk Eagle Ridge Dr Animal abuse 200 Concord 911 Hang up 900 Blk Eagle Ridge Animal at large Montana Ridge/Dakota Star Open Garage door 1000 Scenic Dr Animal at large PHQ Citizen Contact BSPD Agency Assist 600 Blk NW Jefferson Alarm PHQ Citizen Contact Main St Motor Vehicle Accident Broadway/Jackie Citizen Contact PHQ Citizen Contact Lakeview/Indian Creek Suspicious Auto PHQ Citizen Contact 1000 Blk Phelps Ct Agency Assist Main St Alarm 600 Blk NW Jefferson Alarm February 17, 2024 PHQ Citizen Contact PHQ Stolen Auto 100 Blk South Main Area Check Main St/Mo-40 Hwy Motor Vehicle Accident 600 SW Minter Dr Past Disturbance Persimmon/Rosewood Area Check 600 Blk SW Minter Rd Verbal Disturbance 1000 Blk SW Eagles Citizen Contact February 18, 2024 1000 Blk Ashley Drive Stolen Auto 1000 Blk NW Mary Ct Disturbance 200 NW Gregg Verbal Disturbance/Property Damage PHQ Citizen Contact Rosewood Disturbance 1000 Blk NW Ashley Dr Past Disturbance Sni-a-bar Area Check 800 Blk Valley Woods Dr Suspicious activity 200 Blk Valley Citizen Contact PHQ Citizen Contact 900 Blk Stone Booke Dr Property damage February 19, 2024 PHQ Citizen contact 300 Blk SW Eagles Pkwy Property damage PHQ Citizen contact 1200 Blk NW Eagle Ridge Blvd Illegal dumping 1300 Blk Pecan Dr Gunshots in area 1600 Blk NW Hilltop Citizen contact February 20, 2024 35000 E Old 40 Hwy Verbal disturbance 500 Blk Yennie Fraud report 100 Blk Cross Creek Animal control PHQ Citizen contact 600 Blk SW Tisha Parking complaint PHQ Citizen contact 1000 Blk Stoney Point Dr Missing juvenile 3300 Blk S Outer Belt Rd Security check 500 Blk Walnut St Verbal disturbance Front St Animal control 1100 Blk Golfview De Verbal disturbance Additional calls for service: Suicidal Subject : 6 Domestic Violence : 1  Jackson County Public Works Environmental Health Division inspects all restaurants, grocery stores, schools, mobile food and temporary food establishments in the City of Grain Valley. The following violations were reported in the last 7 days: El Maguey Mexican Restaurant 102 Buckner Tarsney Road Warewashing machine not reading proper sanitizer. Repeat. Re-inspection required. Scheduled 2/16/24. Three compartment sink will be utilized for wash, rinse and sanitized until repairs are made. Porky's Blazin BBQ 9512 S Buckner Tarsney Rd Observed sanitizer at three compartment sink too weak. (below 200ppm). Corrected on site. (tablets added) Culver's of Grain Valley 1180 S Buckner Tarsney Rd Observed clean utensils stored in a dirty storage drawer. Corrected on site. (drawer cleaned, utensils rewashed) Warewashing machine was not reading correct sanitizer. Corrected on site. (sanitizer refilled)  by Michael Smith Grain Valley senior Jace Worthington had one last chance to qualify for the state tournament. Worthington had never competed in the state tournament before going into Saturday’s Class 4 District 4 Tournament at Fort Osage High School. His brother, Jaden Worthington, qualified for the state tournament in 2019 and 2018 and Jace wanted to qualify for the state tournament before he graduated. He had his chance when he took on North Kansas City junior Justin Patek in the consolation semifinals of the 175-pound bracket. It was the bubble match and the winner would qualify for the state tournament while the season would end for the loser. Worthington grinded out a 4-1 win against Patek, punching his ticket to Columbia as he was one of six Eagles to qualify for the Missouri State High School Wrestling Championships beginning Friday at Mizzou Arena. Worthington ended up taking fourth after he was pinned by Rockhurst junior Anthony Totta in the third-place bout. “It’s pretty awesome, especially after seeing my brother setting a pretty high standard,” Jace said. “I am just happy I am able to somewhat follow that up.” Jace said he often looks over at Jaden, who coaches him from the stands at times. “When I am in a sticky situation, he motions to what I should do,” Jace said. Freshman Sjoeren Aumua (144) has had a breakout 2023-24 campaign and he will compete at state for the first time next weekend. He cruised to a 13-1 major decision over Park Hill South’s Connor Jackson in the bubble match before falling 7-3 to Liberty North senior Dru Thomas in the third-place match. “I am happy I get to go to state with the team and to be able to actually compete,” Aumua said. “I need the experience to go to state as a freshman.” He admitted to having some nerves going into district but was able to overcome them. “I feel like I was scared going into the matches,” Aumua said. “I just need a little more confidence in myself. I just need to get better at the end of the day. I felt like I was pretty good but there is plenty of room to improve.” Junior Colston Parks (113) will get to join his brother Gavin at state for the first time as he took fourth on Saturday. He pinned Northtown freshman Noah Perez in 40 seconds in the bubble match to keep his season alive. He fell in the third-place match to Liberty sophomore Cade Dunn by fall. “I am pretty excited,” Parks said. “I am glad I have made it. I came a long way. I can’t wait to see where I go at state.” Senior Gavin Parks (126) will be making his third trip to state as he took fourth at districts. Sophomore Zac Bleess (120) is going to go back to state for the seasons time. He made it to the finals before falling to two-time state champion Hunter Taylor of Liberty 15-4 and senior Justin Deweese will make his third appearance at the state tournament after finishing as the runner up in 165-pound weight division as he fell to Ruskin sophomore Logan Taylor 7-1 in the championship match.  From left, Grain Valley wrestlers Sjoeren Aumua, Gavin Parks, Zac Bleess, Justin Deweese, Colston Parks and Jace Worthington all qualified for the Class 4 Missouri State High School Wrestling Championships by finishing in the top 4 of the district tournament Saturday at Fort Osage High School. Photo credit: Michael Smith
For those interested in learning more about the upcoming levy ballot measure in Grain Valley, Grain Valley Schools will host two Community Presentations next week: Grain Valley South Middle School - Tuesday, February 20th at 6:00pm Grain Valley North Middle School - Wednesday, February 21st at 6:00pm The district is also offering a member of the superintendent's team to serve as a guest speaker on the levy ballot measure to neighborhood or community organizations. To request a guest speaker, complete the following form: Levy Ballot Measure (google.com)  by Cole Arndorfer The Grain Valley Board of Aldermen met on Monday, February 12, for their first meeting in February. The meeting included a proclamation, three new resolutions, and the first reading of one ordinance. To start the meeting, Mayor Mike Todd read a proclamation declaring February 11-17 National FBLA Week in the City of Grain Valley to honor the Grain Valley High School’s Future Business Leaders of America program. Following the proclamation, the board moved into resolutions. The board approved the first resolution, adopting the updated social media policy. This is the first update to the social media policy since 2018. The main changes include when the city can remove social media comments, such as those posted by bots or that include profanity. The board approved the second resolution, allowing the purchase of eight security cameras to be placed in Monkey Mountain Park. City Administrator Ken Murphy said that these cameras will be a major improvement compared to the troublesome nature of the old cameras currently in the park. The board also approved the last resolution, allowing the city to enter into a contract with the company Flock to install automatic license plate readers within the city. After resolutions, the board heard the first reading of one ordinance. The bill would amend the city code surrounding meeting procedures. These amendments would include changing the regular meeting time for Board of Aldermen meetings from 7 pm to 6:30 pm, and adding language to allow for virtual meetings, should one be necessary. Concerns around this bill were brought up by Jan Brill in the public comment section of the meeting. Brill stated that moving the meeting time up may give off the impression that the board is trying to hide something and does not want the public to be involved in its meetings. The first reading was passed by the board and will be brought back for its second read at the next meeting. In the mayor’s report, Todd noted his meeting with downtown businesses about plans for First Friday’s this summer. Todd said that they are going to be getting information put together to present to the board in the near future. Following the mayor’s report, the board adjourned into executive session. The next board meeting for the month of February will be held at 7:00pm on Monday, February 26th at City Hall. Grain Valley Parks and Recreation is hosting a Mad Science Spring Break program March 18-21 from 10:00am - 12:00pm at the Grain Valley Community Center. During this 4 day course for students in Kindergarten - 6th grade, students will participate in a wide range of safe and engaging hands-on activities led by an instructor with a flair for science. The cost for the program is $120 per participant.
Daily sessions will cover content from 8 different topics: Harnessing Heat, Lights Color Action, Magnetic Magic (ICW& ASP), Mission Nutrition, Optical Illusions, Sonic Sounds, Tantalizing Taste and Watts-Up. See program flyer for content details: 2024 Spring Break Science (cityofgrainvalley.org) To register, visit Youth Programs - City of Grain Valley, Missouri. After months of community debate and speculation, the Kansas City Royals announced plans Tuesday to relocate to the Crossroads district in downtown Kansas City. Jackson County voters will decide in April whether to extend the current 3/8 cent tax that supports Kauffman and Arrowhead Stadiums for the next 40 years. “We are thrilled to announce our plans to contribute community dynamics, an incredible stadium experience, and long-term growth to The Crossroads – a neighborhood ballpark home for the Royals that will stand strong for the next 50 years here in Jackson County," Royals Chairman and CEO John Sherman said. “And we’re excited to build that new home without costing taxpayers a penny more.” In a release following the announcement, Jackson County Executive Frank White welcomed the announcement of a site location. "For months, we've stressed the importance of selecting a site to move forward effectively with negotiations and to provide a clear basis for the proposal before it goes to the voters,” White said. “I am pleased that the Royals have taken this significant step. It is a decision that marks progress in our journey towards a resolution that will shape the future of our county." In the release, White underscored the urgency of engaging in an open, transparent and thoroughly honest discussion about the proposal, especially given its imminent placement on the April ballot. "The time for broad overviews has passed,” White said. “As this issue heads to the ballot, it is crucial for all parties involved to commit to a dialogue that leaves no question unanswered, and no detail obscured. This is a monumental decision for Jackson County, involving an investment of over $2 billion by our taxpayers. They deserve to understand every aspect of what this entails." For more information on the proposed stadium and site plan, visit Kansas City Royals Stadium (kcballparkdistrict.com)  The Kansas City Royals released renderings of a proposed stadium to be located in the Crossroads district of downtown Kansas City. Voters will decide in April whether to extend the current 3/8 tax to support the relocation. Photo credit: Kansas City Royals
On Thursday, February 22nd at 7:00pm, Congressmen Mark Alford and Emanuel Cleaver will be hosting a fentanyl forum at Center High School in Kansas City, Missouri. The event is designed as a collaborative space to delve into the seriousness of the fentanyl crisis in our community and strive for collective solutions. Forum participants include:
Center High School is located at 8715 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64131. To RSVP, please contact Austin Higginbotham at 770-519-7894. |
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