Meet the candidates in the packed primary race for Jackson County executive
Several candidates for Jackson County Executive are campaigning on platforms addressing data center development, with some supporting a recently enacted moratorium on data center zoning. The election also features discussions on property tax reform and a pending class-action lawsuit against the county. Candidates are outlining their visions for county governance and economic development.
Jackson County, Missouri, is preparing for a crowded primary race for its county executive seat on August 4, following a tumultuous previous term. Six Democratic candidates and one Republican are vying for the position, which oversees municipal departments, corrects tax assessments, and represents the county.
A significant campaign issue for several candidates involves data center development and zoning. Candidate Tarwater supports guardrails on data center zoning, advocating for a "wait and see" approach to understand long-term impacts on other counties before approving more. Former Lee's Summit Mayor Baird supports a recently passed moratorium on data center zoning by the Jackson County Legislature, emphasizing the need for comprehensive county-level planning. Attorney Stacy Lake is a staunch opponent of new data center construction in Jackson County, supporting further limits on future zoning approvals.
Beyond data centers, property tax reform is a central theme, with candidates proposing various solutions, including direct refunds for overpaid homeowners. The county is also facing a pending class-action lawsuit involving 200,000 homeowners, which candidate Tarwater warns could lead to bankruptcy. Other priorities for candidates include public safety funding, infrastructure improvements, and expanded public transit systems.