City Manager Discusses 2024-25 Budget with South Kansas Citizens

KANSAS CITY, Mo – The Kansas City City Council approved the largest budget in the city’s history at $2.3 billion for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Ahead of the budget going into effect on May 1, City Manager Brian Platt reached out to explain, discuss, and answer questions about the budget and its potential impact on South Kansas citizens.

“Community engagement is the backbone of everything we do,” said Platt who was at hand to elucidate and gain feedback from citizens. “The purpose of our jobs is to make sure we are reflecting the needs of the people of Kansas City. What better way to do that than to hear from them directly.”

Focus on Service Improvements

“There is a lot that is in this budget about improving services, improving service delivery and the needs of all of our communities,” added Platt. The budget outlines pay raises for Kansas City Police Department officers, violence prevention measures, and channeling nearly $35 million towards street resurfacing. Provisions have also been made for significant issues such as trash cleanup, homelessness prevention, and housing.

Direct Engagement with the Community

At the South Kansas City Alliance meeting held on Monday, Platt responded to questions from neighbors about everything from potholes to trash collection, World Cup traffic, and public transportation. There were also discussions on improving connectivity for those living in South Kansas City to public events in and around the downtown area.

“On March 22, we resurfaced 500 lane miles to fix potholes. We encourage continued feedback from the community on what they want fixed,” Platt said. The budget includes fund allocation for city street and sidewalk repairs.