Celisa Calacal

Kansas City’s public safety sales tax has been used to support the police department and emergency and medical services. Mayor Quinton Lucas and other officials want voters to renew it so the city can use the money to build a new jail and rehabilitation center.

The city is pulling from several funding sources, including $12 million from the Housing Trust Fund, to support the first phase of development for Parade Park. The community was a Black-owned housing co-op and a source of pride for Kansas City's Black families.

After their cafe was named one of 2022's best new restaurants by Bon Appetit magazine, the Kamal family is expanding its dessert and pastry offerings next door, at Baba's Bakery. It's now open on Saturdays, and there are plans to expand hours by March.

Protesters in downtown Kansas City emphasized the importance of coming together to oppose President Donald Trump's policies, which they fear will disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.

As the U.S. celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day and marks Trump's second inauguration, Kansas City activists worry the new president will follow through on campaign promises like mass deportations and clamping down on diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. But they are also hopeful that people in their networks can band together and fight back.

The Palestinian American Medical Association, founded in Kansas City in 2013, works to ensure Palestinians have access to the health care they need. Since the current war began last year, their work has become even more critical.

Tenant unions in Kansas City and Independence started a rent strike in October in response to deteriorating living conditions that went unaddressed by landlords. There have been some small improvements since, but residents have also experienced what they consider retaliation.

The county no longer has to make property assessment changes that would have upended a process mired by lawsuits and criticism from residents and county legislators.

The open-air venue in Kansas City's Power & Light District, originally built with millions in public funds, has been home to concerts and watch parties for major sporting events. Upgrades are slated for completion by next spring.

The popular gas station and travel center will be located near the Kansas Speedway. Construction is slated to start in May 2025.