What is the Housing Trust Fund? Will a “yes” vote increase my taxes? What kind of housing would the $100 million help fund?
Josh Merchant
Josh Merchant is The Beacon's local government reporter in Kansas City. After graduating from Seattle University, Josh earned a master’s degree in investigative journalism from Columbia Journalism School with coursework in data journalism. Josh has contributed reporting to The Seattle Spectator, The South Seattle Emerald and THE CITY in New York. They're a former Beacon intern. At The Beacon, they reported on issues of traffic safety, with a focus on roadway design, as well as tax-incentivized development at a variety of Kansas City agencies. They have lived in Kansas City since 2021.
Posted inElections
Who will represent south Kansas City and Grandview in the Jackson County Legislature?
Current 4th District Legislator DaRon McGee is not seeking reelection, leaving an open seat in the county legislature. Two Democrats and one Republican are campaigning to replace him.
Posted inElections
Two Democrats and two Republicans compete for a seat on Jackson County Legislature
In Jackson County’s 3rd District, covering most of Independence and parts of Sugar Creek and eastern Kansas City, incumbent Charlie Franklin has decided not to seek reelection. These four candidates want to replace him.
Posted inElections
Jackson County’s 2nd District candidates talk property taxes, stadiums and data centers
Whoever wins in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary will run unopposed in the general election to represent eastern Kansas City and northern Raytown.
Posted inElections
These five candidates want to represent all of Jackson County in the legislature
Incumbents Jalen Anderson and Donna Peyton are fending off primary challenges in the 1st and 2nd at-large districts, respectively. The candidates weigh in on property taxes, public transit and the future of Truman Sports Complex
Posted inElections
Get to know the six Democrats running for Jackson County executive
All six Democrats running for Jackson County executive listed property taxes as the top issue. But their other two top priorities varied.
Posted inLocal Government
How World Cup traffic jams and bus delays could help Kansas City plan for the future
Transit experts say the World Cup is a ‘stress test’ for Kansas City’s roads and buses. They want to hear from you.
Posted inLocal Government
FAQ: What the stadium petition means for Kansas City’s plan to subsidize a new Royals ballpark
A group representing low-wage workers submitted petition signatures to force a vote on the city’s $600 million Royals stadium subsidy. Here’s a guide to the road ahead.
Posted inLocal Government
Wyandotte County leaders at odds with Kansas lawmaker over Chiefs stadium decisions
A state lawmaker said the Unified Government’s ordinance to support the Chiefs deal exerts too much power over Kansas negotiations. County leaders believe he’s mistaken.
Posted inElections
Kansas City Council plans to ask voters for these five things in August
Water infrastructure, affordable housing and building repairs: Kansas City wants your permission to borrow $1.7 billion.