Ruby Jean’s Juicery, a local health resource, receives support from the community during tax challenges.
Chris Goode, owner of Ruby Jean’s Juicery, faces an astonishing 657% increase in property taxes, elevating his business to the highest-taxed property in Jackson County. Initially paying around $2,000 in 2022, his tax bill skyrocketed to $25,000 following renovations and a lack of tax abatement. Goode claims there was no property inspection prior to the hike, raising concerns among community members. As Goode appeals the decision, the locality rallies around the juicery, showcasing the broader implications for small businesses in marginalized communities.
In a striking turn of events in Jackson County, the owner of Ruby Jean’s Juicery, Chris Goode, is grappling with a staggering 657% increase in property taxes. This drastic rise has made his business the highest-taxed property in the county, and this situation is stirring quite the conversation among community members and officials alike.
The sudden spike in property taxes stems from a peculiar situation involving the previous owner who neglected to apply for a tax abatement after significant renovations were made. When Goode acquired the property in 2022 through a Small Business Administration loan, he was initially paying around $2,000 in property taxes. Fast forward to just one year later, and that amount exploded to an eye-popping $25,000. Such a leap can be hard for any small business to digest, let alone one that is still establishing itself in the community.
Adding to this bewildering scenario is Goode’s assertion that no physical inspection was conducted on the property prior to the startling tax hike. In fact, regulations stipulate that a thorough inspection should be performed when increases exceed 15%. Goode believes that officials may not even be aware of the actual condition of the property, which currently requires a new roof and has ongoing structural issues that need addressing.
Ruby Jean’s Juicery has emerged as a symbol of hope and health within the community, particularly along the historically significant Troost Avenue, an area known for facing redlining. Goode has strong ties to the neighborhood; his childhood daycare was located just across the street, and his family has deep roots in the community. Not only does he take pride in his business, but he also feels a sense of responsibility for the property, which has a history linked to a plantation.
In a desperate effort to combat what he views as an unfair tax situation, Goode has made multiple appeals to Jackson County, seeking a reevaluation of his property taxes. He has also reached out to various stakeholders in search of legal counsel, indicating a potential lawsuit against the county if local officials fail to address his concerns. Unfortunately, Goode has found himself swimming upstream, feeling frustrated with the apparent lack of support from local government figures.
As word of Goode’s predicament spreads, community members have expressed their dismay at the tax increase. Many believe Ruby Jean’s is a crucial resource for healthy food options in the area, and the thought of its potential closure is alarming. Some residents have even offered financial support to help sustain the juicery, illustrating just how much the business means to the local population.
Goode’s experience points to larger systemic issues surrounding taxation and regulation, particularly in marginalized communities. Local officials, including those from the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, have commented that tax abatements rely on property improvements rather than merely serving as a protective measure against tax increases. Yet, this stance raises further questions about how tax policies impact small businesses, especially when unexpected hikes can jeopardize their very existence.
Chris Goode’s battle against the overwhelming tax increase is about more than just his business; it symbolizes a larger fight for equitable treatment of small business owners in economically challenged areas. As he continues to seek solutions, the community stands beside him, taking note of the ongoing challenges small business owners face. In the end, the outcome of this tax debacle will not only affect Goode but could shake the foundation of support for local businesses in Jackson County.
Celebrating Bishop James Tindall Sr. in Kansas City
Kansas City Implements New Initiative to Combat Crime
Kansas City Welcomes Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s New Headquarters
Kansas City Residents Indicted on Child Pornography Charges
Kansas City Residents Prepare to Vote on Public Safety Tax
Kansas City Council Votes on Public Safety Sales Tax Renewal
Independence, Missouri Set to Vote on Historic $197 Million GO Bond Initiative for Community Improvements
Charges Dropped Against Teen in Chef Shaun Brady’s Fatal Shooting, Brookside Community in Disbelief
Jackson County Faces Political Turmoil as Recall Effort Gains Momentum Amid Discontent
Exciting Insights from the 2024 Election: What Kansas City Voters Said!
News Summary CBS News is set to release the unedited transcript of Vice President Kamala…
News Summary After three weeks of intense firefighting efforts, the Palisades and Eaton fires in…
News Summary Ukraine faces devastating drone and missile strikes from Russia, resulting in the loss…
News Summary Kansas City is grieving the loss of LuLu Livingston, a dedicated advocate for…
News Summary Kansas City's streets have faced traffic disruptions recently, particularly due to broken down…
News Summary Meryl Carver-Allmond has been nominated by Governor Laura Kelly for a vacancy on…