Josh Merchant, The Beacon
Josh Merchant is The Kansas City Beacon's local government reporter.
Stories by Josh Merchant, The Beacon
The Missouri Legislature is Cutting Local Governments’ Power to Pass Their Own Laws
Republican statehouses like Missouri’s increasingly limit what rules places like Kansas City can adopt — typically shutting down more progressive policies.
KC Residents Will Soon Be Able to Throw Away Twice as Much Trash. How Will it Affect Recycling?
Kansas City is about to replace trash bags with bins. But the convenience of a lidded trash bin may come at a cost for the environment.
Taxes Often Used to Make Stadiums More Lavish
Economists say that when the public pays for stadiums, that money is used for expensive upgrades. What does that mean for the new Kansas City Royals stadium?
If Voters OK Ballpark Sales Tax, Royals Will Ask KC and Missouri for More
The Kansas City Royals are in talking with Kansas City officials and Missouri Gov. Mike Parson to fill a $700 million funding gap for a downtown ballpark.
No, Wyandotte County is Not Going Bankrupt
United Government Mayor Tyrone Garner has warned the government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, faces "financial ruin." Bond markets disagree.
Zoning Dispute Has Prairie Village Warring Over Housing
The issue of Prairie Village rezoning has left the quiet Kansas City suburb more divided than ever. Now, a group wants to kick out half of the City Council.
Inside KC’s 311 Complaint Hotline: More Than 300,000 Reports
The Kansas City 311 program has received 300,000 reports in two years. Here are the city’s top problems and how advocates are trying to help.
Waldo and Plaza-area Projects Push for Port KC Tax Breaks
The Port Authority of Kansas City is considering tax breaks for two housing proposals in Waldo and near the Country Club Plaza that are drawing criticism.
When Corporations Buy Local Homes, We All Pay
Jackson County's latest round of property tax assessments has sent homeowners into a frenzy. One factor driving prices of homes? Out-of-town investors.
Endorsements Shift Kansas City’s Political Landscape
Even as the old guard of Kansas City politics made endorsements, newer groups like KC Tenants Power and Northland Strong shaped the 2023 City Council election.