City of Grain Valley files suit against Jackson County Election Board

     In a January 23rd press release, the City of Grain Valley announced it has filed suit in Jackson County Circuit Court against the Jackson County Election Board (JCEB) "in an attempt to ensure that residents of Grain Valley are fairly represented in the general election to be held on April 4, 2023."
     According to the City's release, the suit is asking for the JCEB to be required to use the district ward boundaries that were updated and approved by the Board of Aldermen on October 24, 2022.
     As previously reported, the Board of Aldermen adjusted ward boundaries to account for population changes identified in the most recent census. (October 24, 2022 Board recap) 
     According to the City, the approved ordinance was sent to the Jackson County Election Board on November 14, 2022. The City's release states they received pushback from JCEB and were told that the new boundaries would not be used in the April 4, 2023 election even though the new boundaries were now current law in Grain Valley. 
      In the release, the City explained its decision to file suit.
     "The decision to file this suit was not taken lightly. However, it was deemed necessary by the Board of Aldermen to take action after attempts to work together with the JCEB to complete the process were denied. The most important aspect is ensuring that all residents have an equal influence on the April general election, and we believe this is a necessary step for that to occur. We look forward to resolving this matter as quickly as possible so both entities can go about their work for the public."
     According to the court filing, a response from JCEB is to be filed by February 8th; a hearing is scheduled for February 17th at 3:00pm. Judge Marco Roldan has been assigned the case. The Jackson County Election Board has been contacted for comment, and updates will be provided as new information is made available.