The Country Club Plaza isn’t what it used to be.
Takeaways
- The Port Authority of Kansas City is considering a tax incentive for the developers of the Country Club Plaza. The most recent proposal is for a $309 million property tax break over the course of 30 years.
- The tax incentive would result in about $188 million being diverted from Kansas City Public Schools over the 30-year lifespan, averaging about $6 million per year. While some leaders want to make sure the Plaza project moves quickly, taxing jurisdictions have objected to the size of the tax break and say that Port KC has not been transparent with members of the public or with other government officials.
- Dozens of KCPS parents attended a Port KC board meeting on Nov. 17 to oppose the proposal, saying that it would “bleed” the district at a time when schools are already struggling for money. Port KC removed the project from its agenda shortly before the meeting. It is scheduled to take up the proposal again Dec. 15.
On the outside, its Spanish-style architecture and intricate facades have inspired many residents to call the Plaza the “crown jewel” of Kansas City.
But look a little closer. In recent years, storefronts have hollowed out, sales have slumped and the aging landmark has flipped from owner to owner struggling to revive the once-vibrant shopping district.
Under the new ownership of Dallas-based Gillon Property Group, a rescue plan is underway. Now, city officials and community leaders are facing a massive tax incentive request that they worry could hurt Kansas City Public Schools and other government services…