Insiders Fear Political Fallout Of Jackson County Property Tax Audit

Over the past 24 hours, scathing public rebuke of Jackson County's property tax assessment process by the Missouri Auditor has sparked a political firestorm across the Show-Me State. 

Thankfully, we've been lucky to talk to a few insiders who help unpack the drama beyond official statements or social media chatter. 

To wit . . . 

JACKSON COUNTY PROPERTY TAX AUDIT CRISIS NOT ONLY ENDANGERS STADIUM TALKS BUT ALSO DIMINISHES CONFIDENCE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT!!!

We'll have more follow-up but a couple of problems stand out and need to be addressed loud & clear . . . Let's begin with the basics of this situation according to insiders:

"The audit was unprecedented. Nothing like this has happened in Jackson County history. Missouri officials are basically telling everyone that the tax processes are breaking the law and rollback is the best option. It's amateur hour down there and getting called out on it is a HORRIBLE LOOK for anyone currently holding office." 

Now, here's a glimpse at consequences of this situation with the stadium tax deals currently under consideration: 

Insiders contend: 

"How are the Royals or the Chiefs going to negotiate with a local government body that can't even operate their most basic functions??? This is a nightmare for stadium talks because it shows the current administration lacks professionalism and isn't serious about its job when it comes to something as important as the homes of residents." 

And then . . . 

The second part of this debate will play out amongst the GOP in Jeff City. 

Here's inside word: 

"Now the Missouri Republicans have incentive to pass legislation that eliminates the appointed "Assessment Director" and turns the job into an elected position. More importantly this debacle provides another opening for the GOP to chip away at the Democratic Party majority and exploit tax issues while garnering votes. In 2024, when the Dems need a strong showing in Jackson County . . . Republicans will easily use this issue to worsen the wedge between more conservative voters in Eastern Jack vs. the urban core."

And so . . .

This is more than just a local news story but something that will resonate statewide and might spark even more backlash from the Missouri Republicans going forward.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Jackson County residents call for rollback of 2023 property assessments

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Aggrieved Jackson County homeowners react to state auditor report

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'Something's gotta change': Property owners react to audit of Jackson County's assessment process

Property owners in Jackson County, Missouri, expect the state auditor's preliminary report on the assessment department's procedures to lead to changes.

Kansas City attorney offers advice paying for paying Jackson County property taxes under protest

The deadline to pay Jackson County property tax bills is looming close.

Developing . . .