Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca Disputes Investigation Amid Recall

Our first takeaway . . .

The latest update in a story of an investigation into a Jackson County Legislator emerged on a Friday evening and was reported but mostly downplayed by local news. 

The dearth of info on the Courthouse is often lamented by cowtown news junkies but the reality is that MOST PEOPLE DON'T WANT TO KNOW about the constant political maneuvering and posturing at 12th & Oak because it erodes confidence in local government.   

Accordingly . . .

We'll share links to the story and, more importantly, the response from Jackson County legislator Abarca in a sordid state of affairs that's clearly linked to the recall.

Our takeaway . . .

This episode is actually just one of many insider struggles amid recall election intrigue wherein HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS worth of taxpayer funds for stadiums are clandestinely at stake.

Now, here's the quote from Legislator Abarca . . . 

"Only two legislators are currently being "investigated by the County Executive, both of whom have been outspoken critics of his administration and strong supporters of the recall effort. At no other time in the history of the Legislature has the Executive attempted such a blatant power grab to retaliate against his political opponents. 

"This investigation was launched without proper authority, budget approval, or policy justification. County General Counsel previously advised that only the Legislature, not the Executive, has the authority to investigate its own members. Yet Mr. White chose to hand-select a law firm and move forward anyway, costing taxpayers $25,000 in an unauthorized, non-competitive contract. This misuses of taxpayer dollars is both irresponsible and an abuse of process." 

Via social media Legislator Abarca shared more . . . 

"I will continue to hold those in positions of power accountable no matter what their attempts against me. Now watch, all of those folks that have axes to grind will share their idea of my demise. Folks should ask themselves, who are these voices and what do they have to gain with me out of the way? I called out anti-union administrators, I called out folks who raised our taxes and I called out staff who’ve enjoyed the ride but often don’t do the work. 

"When speaking truth to power it is often the one with the strong voice who is attacked, for that very truth, by those who have enjoyed the lie." 

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

Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca: "Here is my response to Frank White swan song. When unaccountable bullies attempt to assassinate my character, this is how the team I work with on a daily basis respond-on their own." 

KC Star: Jackson County finds Manny Abarca’s conduct toward staff likely ‘inappropriate’

KSHB: Letter reveals inappropriate behavior by JaxCo Legislator Manny Abarca occurred 'more likely than not'

Developing . . .