Parents Condemn BILLIONS For Country Club Plaza Whilst School District Offers Pass

Reality check . . .

Outrage from parents is probably correct from a taxpayer perspective.

However . . .

KCPS doesn't have the political pull to oppose the deal given so much cash flowing into their coffers from voters. 

Here's the overview starting with the KCPS pass and then outrage from parents . . .  

"The Kansas City School District avoided a much worse outcome regarding a $1.5 billion tax incentive package for redeveloping the Country Club Plaza, according to Superintendent Jennifer Collier. She is now urging local leaders to guarantee that future development plans do not jeopardize funding for the city's schools.

"In a written statement issued Monday, Collier explained that the initial tax incentive proposal submitted to the Port Authority of Kansas City by the Plaza's owner, Gillon Property Group, would have resulted in substantial financial losses for the district. However, she noted that a better agreement protecting future students was secured after district parents and teachers intervened to demand a fairer deal."

Meanwhile back on Earth: 

Parents for KC Kids, the parent-led group, said in a social media post on Monday that it was “deeply disappointed” in the Port Authority of Kansas City’s decision to advance the plan. The group said Port KC “continues its unsustainable trend of subsidizing wealthy private developers” at the expense of the city’s school children.

The group said it would continue to pursue accountability and transparency from city leaders who consider using public tax dollars for economic development. It also said it would demand more investment in public education. 

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

KCPS raises questions over Country Club Plaza deal

Port KC has approved a tax incentive plan for the County Club Plaza redevelopment project, raising concerns with Kansas City Public Schools

KCPS leader says district worked hard to protect schools in Plaza tax incentives

Superintendent Jennifer Collier says school district teachers and parents rallied to protect future tax revenue for the city's school children.

Counterpoint . . .  

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Developing . . .