The Beacon

Site of the proposed 4711 Belleview project west of the Country Club Plaza.

Waldo and Plaza-area Projects Push for Port KC Tax Breaks

By Josh Merchant, The Beacon | July 19, 2023

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.

An illustration of a house made of money.

When Corporations Buy Local Homes, We All Pay

By Josh Merchant, The Beacon | July 12, 2023

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.

A participant in a KC Tenants Power political rally uses a megaphone to fire up the crowd.

Endorsements Shift Kansas City’s Political Landscape

By Josh Merchant, The Beacon, Mary Sanchez | June 22, 2023

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.

A voter enters a polling location at the National World War I Museum and Memorial to submit a ballot.

Things to Watch During June 20 Election in Kansas City

By Josh Merchant, The Beacon | June 16, 2023

Kansas City has seen new political players, a worsening affordable housing crisis and escalating tensions with the state-controlled police department.