The EDC and the City of Kansas City, MO, recently formed an Advocacy Council to bring together KCMO community leaders, representing a wide array of industries, to address our city’s challenges and capitalize on opportunities for a visionary future. Mayor Sly James said the council is essential for the city’s continued success.
“It’s important now more than ever that we educate the public on the city’s economic growth, and this council is a way to engage people and obtain feedback and support from a diverse group of industries throughout the city,” said James. “Kansas City development has been on a roll, and we believe the Advocacy Council can help us maintain a national spotlight on our city.”
On October 3rd, the group met to discuss a proposed City Ordinance (#160383), which would cap City incentives at 75%, subject to specific exceptions. One effect of the ordinance would be that taxing jurisdictions would begin to see increased revenues from development efforts sooner. According to EDC President & CEO Bob Langenkamp, another outcome of the ordinance’s approval is to restore some predictability to the City’s project evaluation and approval processes.
“Our hope is that this approval will help get everyone on the same page regarding incentives while keeping us competitive in attracting projects and jobs to the city,” said Langenkamp. The City Council did approve the ordinance on October 6th.
The Kansas/Missouri “Border War” (companies moving back and forth across the state line in order to take advantage of tax incentives) continues to be a concerning issue. Langenkamp says he hopes the two states can reach a compromise that will limit incentives to only those companies creating net new jobs if they move across the state line.
“We hope the two states can collaborate because significant tax incentives are going to companies who move, but they don’t always create new jobs when they do,” said Langenkamp. A Bi-State working group has met in an effort to reach a mutually acceptable agreement on limiting incentives for these type of projects, but so far have been unable to come to consensus.
Educating people on important matters such as these are a priority for the Advocacy Council, and Langenkamp believes it’s important for its members to have a voice in the process.
“The Advocacy Council allows us to provide important information on current events, future trends, developments in the Missouri legislature, and challenges we face,” said Langenkamp. “We hope to continue our collaboration, and enhance economic development opportunities in Kansas City.”
If you would like more information about the EDC’s Advocacy Council, please email advocacyboard@edckc.com. Thank you for your ongoing support of economic growth in Kansas City!