The legislature’s effort to draw a new congressional map breaks with tradition and could force the Missouri Supreme Court to decide on the legality of midcycle redistricting.
Missouri’s redistricting effort is legally unprecedented, experts say
Posted inElections
FAQ: All about the Sept. 30 special election to recall Frank White Jr.
Supporters of the recall say they’re ticked off about how Frank White Jr. handled property assessments. Opponents say the construction lobby is trying to clear the path for “sweetheart stadium deals.”
Posted inLabor
Reservation for 650,000: Kansas City’s hospitality industry braces for World Cup workforce scramble
With more than 6,000 open food service job listings and no coordinated plan to address staffing, Kansas City restaurant leaders worry they won’t be ready for the massive influx of World Cup visitors in 2026.
Posted inBehind the Beacon
The Beacon’s founding champion: Remembering David Oliver
Dear friends of The Beacon, On behalf of The Beacon, we join in the profound sadness at news of the passing of David Oliver, founding board chair of The Beacon, trusted advisor and lifelong advocate for civic journalism and local engagement. We received this news with heavy hearts. David’s legacy touches every part of The […]
Posted inEducation
How methane gas from deep underground caused two Raytown schools to close for weeks
Some of the deep geothermal wells from the schools’ heating and cooling system allowed methane to accumulate below a parking lot. But repairs are underway.
Posted inHealth
Who can get an updated COVID vaccine and what will it cost? Kansas City doctors say that’s still uncertain
The FDA is only recommending the new shot to people who are 65 or older or have a complicating health condition. Many doctors believe it should be given to everyone.
Posted inState Government
‘Kansas City hangs in the balance’: Contentious hearing kicks off Missouri redistricting effort
Under the map proposed by Gov. Mike Kehoe and carried by Rep. Dirk Deaton, Jackson County voters would be split between districts stretching into eastern, southern and northern Missouri.
Posted inMissouri
Blocked from seeing her son, a Missouri mother fights to change the state’s guardianship law to help others like him
A Missouri mother says her experience with the guardianship system has inspired her to push for changes in state law to protect families like hers.
Posted inState Government
Kansas lacks high-quality opioid addiction treatment programs, KU study finds
People trying to kick addiction should have access to medical detox programs, but these treatments aren’t widely offered in Kansas.
Posted inLocal Government
Why a Raytown alderman was removed from office during a private meeting with the mayor
Latrice Thomas was removed from her position on the Raytown Board of Aldermen after an investigation into her taxes. Two months later, the city still has not publicly addressed her removal.