Public Safety Half Cent Sales Tax Decision Moves to Voters

The City of Kearney Board of Alderman approved an ordinance to place Proposition A: “A Public Safety Tax,” on the April ballot for voters to decide. The proposition imposes a citywide sales tax of 1/2 of 1% for the purpose of improving public safety in Kearney.

“The thing that I think is important, is that it will not apply to utilities, gasoline, or prescription drug purchases,” said Thomas.

The Board of Alderman heard a presentation by Chief Mark Thomas at the January 6 city meeting. Chief Thomas’ presentation outlined why the police department was seeking a sales tax initiative, who would be taxed and what would be taxed.

Chief Thomas said additional funds would go to expanding the School Resource Officer program, enhancing officer safety and preparedness, upgrading department technology and facilities, and increasing support, education, and outreach for the community. If approved, funds would expand the number of school resource officers, fund a community outreach officer, provide for police training, upgrade equipment and technology, as well as ADA improvements and safety equipment for first responders.

If approved retailers will begin collecting the sales tax on October 1st, 2025, and the sales tax will have a sunset date in 25 years.

Chief Thomas noted two important parts of this initiative. Anyone who shops in Kearney, whether they are a resident or non-resident including interstate travelers, will pay the sales tax. Thomas also noted that the sales tax will not apply to certain items.

“The thing that I think is important, is that it will not apply to utilities, gasoline, or prescription drug purchases,” said Thomas. “That’s really important for our local residents I think.”

David Lehman also added that it was important to point out that this is not a property tax on residents and that non-residents would also be paying the sales tax: “The burden is not just on our residents. When you’ve got Starbucks right off the highway [and] you’ve got people coming off the highway who are going to pay this tax too.”

By law sales tax revenues must be spent to improve public safety within Kearney. It cannot be used for any other purpose. Residents of Kearney will have a chance to vote on this sales tax on the April 8, 2025, election ballot.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Enrichment Council Hosts Annual Gala “Hollywood Nights”

The Kearney Enrichment Council is hosting its annual gala on March 15th from 5 to 9 pm. This year’s theme is “Hollywood Nights” and it features an elegant dinner, an open bar, and thrilling silent and live auctions.

The gala’s purpose is to raise money for Kearney Enrichment Council's Emergency Assistance Program. This program provides vital support for rent and utilities to those facing challenging circumstances. Supporters’ generosity fuels their commitment to initiatives like Shop with a Cop, the Kearney Family Foundation, and community-focused programming.

“Hollywood Nights” will take place at the Annunciation Community Center, 701 N. Jefferson St., in Kearney. Doors will open at 5 pm. At 5:30 pm they will be serving cocktails & Hors d 'Oeuvres. 6 pm is dinner and music, with entertainment and the auctions to follow.

To learn more about the Gala, go to https://www.kearneyenrichmentcouncil.org/kec-gala

KPGZ News - Blake Magnusson contributed to this story.

Local Candidates set for April Ballot

Gerri Spencer

The filing window has closed for candidates running for leadership in the City of Kearney, and the Kearney School Board this April. Voters who return to the polls will see a mix of incumbents and challengers.

For Kearney Board of Alderman, in Ward 1, Gerri Spencer is running unopposed for a seat on the board. She is looking to occupy Kathy Barger’s position since Kathy decided not to run again.

Incumbent Dan Holt is also running unopposed. He represents Kearney Ward 2.

For the two Kearney School Board seats, Christina Lindsay, Michael Joe Hickey, Justin Cook, and Jason Klindt have filed as candidates.

Election Day for these candidates is April 8, 2025.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

School District and Chamber Team up for Hiring Fair

Kearney High School and the Kearney Chamber of Commerce are partnering together on a spring Hiring Fair. This is the fifth year the Kearney Chamber of Commerce hiring fair has connected job seekers of all ages with local employers.

The Hiring Fair is open to all employers who have unfilled staff positions or anticipate having open positions in the near future. The Hiring Fair provides an opportunity for businesses to actively interview and hire potential employees on the spot, as-well-as for job seekers to learn about career opportunities.

The 5th annual Hiring Fair will be held at Kearney High School, located at 715 19th Street, on March 21, from 2:30 to 5 pm. The Hiring Fair for high school students takes place from 1:20 to 2:15. It’s open to all area companies and individuals. Registration for area businesses is free. Professionals of all levels are highly encouraged to attend and participate.

For more information or to register your business for a table space, contact the Chamber of Commerce office at 816-628-4229 or by email at Stacie@KearneyChamber.org.

KPGZ News - Blake Magnusson contributed to this story.

Hurlbert Selected to Chair Committee on Transportation

Missouri State Representative Josh Hurlbert (R-Smithville) has been selected to serve as Chairman of the Committee on Transportation for the 103rd General Assembly.

“To be selected to serve as Chairman is one of the greatest honors of my time in Jefferson City,” said Hurlbert. “This Committee is one of the most important in the legislature as so much of Missouri’s economy is dependent on getting goods from fields to markets across the nation and even the world, whether on our roads, rivers, rails, or through the air.”

“Missouri’s infrastructure is at an important crossroads. As we wrap up work on the new Buck O’Neil Bridge here in the Northland and the Lance Cpl. Leon Deraps Bridge on I-70 at Rocheport, we are beginning a new $2.8 billion investment to expand I-70 to six lanes across the state.”

“Never have we entrusted the Department of Transportation with this level of investment. It’s important to Missouri taxpayers that we ensure MODOT is returning that trust by spending their funds efficiently and providing the services Missourians demand.”

KPGZ News – Hurlbert Press Release.