County’s property tax reforms to continue as AG’s lawsuit permanently closed

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Jackson County leaders will continue property tax assessment reforms as a lawsuit filed by the Missouri Attorney General has been permanently closed.

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. announced that the Circuit Court has decided to dismiss with prejudice a lawsuit against the County filed by Attorney General Andrew Bailey.

The news marks the latest in a series of legal victories as county leaders said they work to correct longstanding issues in the property reassessment process. A dismissal with prejudice means the case has now been permanently closed and cannot be refiled.

The County Executive noted that the court’s decision has put an end to this particular challenge. The County has faced various lawsuits since reforms to reassessment practices started, however, the County has prevailed each time.

“This has been a long and challenging process for Jackson County and its residents,” White said. “I want to thank the people of Jackson County for their patience and understanding as we’ve worked to address problems that have been decades in the making. Our goal remains ensuring that every property owner is treated fairly under the law.”

The County also addressed the role misinformation has played in the complications of these efforts.

“Certain individuals have chosen to mislead and confuse the public about this process for personal or political gain, which has made an already difficult situation harder for everyone,” White continued. “We remain focused on moving forward in a way that benefits all Jackson County residents.”

As the County continues to reform the assessment process, leaders noted that the latest decision brings additional clarity to a complicated issue. They remain committed to fairness, transparency and compliance with the law.

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