– Kansas City East Side is facing a renewal of a sales tax.
– The sales tax was initially enacted to support the revitalization of the Kansas City East Side.
– KD Academy, a local early learning center, is one of the businesses that have benefited from the tax.
– Despite apparent lack of progress, many residents feel the tax is necessary for continued development.
Debate Over Sales Tax Renewal in KC East Side
Kansas City East Side is facing a vote on whether to renew a sales tax, originally established to fuel efforts toward the region’s revitalization. The area has visibly struggled with poverty and blight but champions of the tax renewal believe it could help local businesses and organizations change this narrative in the community.
Contributions to Local Businesses
One local business that has benefited from the tax is KD Academy, an early learning center owned and operated by Myron McCant. McCant’s center, which provides an enriching educational environment for young children, is cited as an institution that has flourished under the tax. The developmental opportunities KD academy offers these children are seen as stepping stones towards a brighter community future.
Slow Progress Raises Questions
Skeptics of the tax renewal, however, point to the sluggish progress they have seen in the East Side’s development so far. Despite the funding, improvements in the area remain sparse, leading some residents to question whether the tax is fulfilling its intended purpose.
The Breezy Take
Revitalizing an area like KC’s East Side is undoubtedly a substantial task that requires enough time and resources. While some locals may feel frustrated with the slow pace of progress, patience can prove critical in such large-scale projects. The sales tax, as seen with the influence it has on facilities like KD Academy, indeed makes a difference, even if the change doesn’t happen overnight. Ultimately, it will be up to the voters to decide whether they’re ready to invest more time and faith into the renewal of the sales tax.
Original article: https://kcbeacon.org/stories/2023/10/19/voters-consider-renewing-a-sales-tax-for-kc-east-side/