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Impact on KCPS Schools

How the Plaza deal affects Kansas City's children

Per Student Impact

$250

Every student. Every year. For 30 years.

$188M

Total KCPS Loss

Over 30 years (61% of property tax)

$6.3M

Annual Loss

Average per year

51%

Real Value Retained

After 30 years of inflation

What KCPS Leadership Says

"I'm beyond frustrated that I do not see the same kind of enthusiastic support for our schools in this proposal that is before us today. This proposal is a betrayal of our community's commitment to our schools."

Dr. Jennifer Collier, Superintendent
Testimony to Port KC Board, December 22, 2025

"In Kansas City, we give out such high tax breaks that we have shifted the burden from commercial to residential. Homeowners are paying more because corporations pay less."

Dr. Jennifer Collier, Superintendent
Testimony to Port KC Board, December 22, 2025

"This has been characterized as the district getting more money. Let me be clear, KCPS is getting the same money we received last year."

Dr. Jennifer Collier, Superintendent
Clarifying the "more money" claim

What $188 Million Could Fund

Instead of subsidizing luxury development, KCPS could invest in students:

100+
Teachers
Hired for 30 years at average salary
40
School Buildings
Renovated and modernized
3,400+
Support Staff
Counselors, mental health pros, social workers
100%
Pre-K Expansion
Universal Pre-K for all 4-year-olds

A fair deal would allow KCPS to do all four.

What $188M Could Fund Instead

Alternative uses for KCPS's lost revenue

Who Loses When Property Taxes Are Abated?

KCPS bears 63% of the burden from every tax abatement

Cumulative KCPS Loss Over 30 Years

Total: $188M in nominal terms, adjusted for inflation erosion

KCPS Has Already Lost $45 Million

According to KCPS official records, the district has lost $45 million to previous tax incentive abatements.

The Plaza deal would more than triple that burden.

Stand With KCPS Students

Dr. Collier and the school district need your support to fight this deal.