The Boone County Commission is moving a proposed sales tax for a new jail to the November 3 ballot to address rising out-of-county detention costs.
The Boone County Commission has officially rescheduled its proposed three-eighth-cent sales tax vote from August to November 3. The delay, requested by Sheriff Dwayne Carey, aims to provide officials with more time to garner public support and clarify the project's scope. The tax is intended to fund a new county jail facility to address chronic overcrowding and mitigate the financial strain of housing detainees in other jurisdictions.
Commissioners noted that costs for out-of-county detention have surged significantly, rising from $500,000 annually in both 2017 and 2022 to approximately $2.56 million in 2025. With nearly $1.12 million spent in the first quarter of 2026 alone, the county is currently projected to spend $4.5 million this year. Officials emphasized that the proposal aims to balance infrastructure development with alternative diversion, mental health, and housing support programs to manage incarceration more effectively.
The City of Hazelwood seeks voter approval for a $14 million bond issue to fund the construction of a new fire station.
Christian County officials are seeking $60 million to $75 million in funding to replace an overcrowded jail facility.
The city of Joplin is currently constructing a new splash park and park upgrades in an effort to enhance public recreational amenities for the summer season.
Kansas City Council will ask voters in August to approve $1.7 billion in bond measures for water infrastructure, affordable housing, and convention center renovations.
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