Cities often issue general obligation (GO) bonds to pay for major public projects. GO bonds are a way for cities like Kansas City to fund infrastructure and community improvements.
Kansas City’s GO/KC initiative is a huge investment in the city’s future. GO/KC promises to improve the quality of life for KC residents by addressing critical needs and boosting the city’s long-term growth.
This article will give you a comprehensive overview of the GO/KC program, the projects it’s funding, and the impact it’s having on Kansas City.
The Genesis of GO/KC: Fixing What’s Broken
For decades, Kansas City had been kicking the can down the road when it came to infrastructure. Deferred maintenance piled up, creating a huge backlog of needs. Streets needed repair, sidewalks weren’t accessible, and public buildings were falling apart.
Finally, in April 2017, voters approved $800 million in general obligation (GO) bonds to address these critical issues. This greenlit a 20-year Capital Improvement Program called GO/KC, tackling everything from street and bridge fixes to flood control, park upgrades, and public building renovations.
So, how did the city decide which projects to tackle first? “Shovel-readiness” was key, as was alignment with existing capital plans and the ability to snag outside funding. Projects that spurred development, boosted public safety, and met legal requirements also jumped to the front of the line.
Key Projects Funded by GO/KC Bonds
GO/KC bonds provide funding for a wide range of projects that benefit the entire Kansas City community. Let’s take a look at some key examples:
Parks and Recreation Enhancements
Kansas City has always valued its parks and recreational spaces. In November 2022, voters approved allocating $80 million in GO bond funding to improve our parks. These improvements include everything from updating playgrounds and sports fields to creating new green spaces for everyone to enjoy. (I’d love to give you some specific park names, but I don’t have that information right now!)
One example of a successful GO bond-funded project is the new Kansas City Pet Project campus in Swope Park. This $18 million facility provides top-notch care for animals and streamlines the adoption process, showcasing the positive impact GO bonds can have on animal welfare.
Cultural and Historical Preservation
GO bond funding played a crucial role in the restoration and reopening of the Kansas City Museum. After being vacant for seven years, the museum was revitalized thanks to an $8 million investment. The renovated museum preserves Kansas City’s rich history and provides a valuable cultural resource for residents and visitors alike.
Infrastructure and Accessibility Improvements
The Southwest Boulevard flood control project is a major undertaking funded by GO bonds. This $156 million project is designed to protect homes and businesses from the devastating effects of flooding, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.
GO bond funding also supported the completion of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) upgrades at the Starlight Theatre during the pandemic. These upgrades guarantee that everyone can enjoy performances at this iconic venue.
Finally, GO/KC bonds have helped address the city’s sidewalk backlog. The city projected completion of sidewalk repairs in 2023, resolving a problem that dated back to 2008-2016. These repairs improve pedestrian safety and accessibility for all Kansas Citians.
Financial Impact and Taxpayer Considerations
Let’s break down how GO/KC impacts your wallet.
Understanding the GO Bond Funding Mechanism
General Obligation (GO) bonds are essentially loans that the city pays back over time. The money to repay these bonds comes from your property taxes. Because these bonds affect your taxes, the city can’t issue them without voter approval. This ensures that you, the public, have a say in how your tax dollars are spent.
Analyzing the Estimated Taxpayer Impact
So, how much will this cost you? Here are some examples of estimated annual tax increases:
- For a home valued at $100,000 and a car valued at $15,000: a small annual increase.
- For a home valued at $140,000 and a car valued at $15,000: a slightly larger annual increase.
- For a home valued at $200,000 and a car valued at $35,000: a moderate annual increase.
- For a commercial property valued at $1,000,000: a more substantial annual increase.
The average property owner can expect an increase of around $8 per year over the 20-year life of the program. That’s a relatively small bump in your overall tax bill.
Transparency and Accountability
The city is committed to providing clear and open information about GO/KC projects and how they’re funded. We encourage you to track how your tax dollars are being invested. Visit the website to learn more and stay informed.
How are GO/KC projects picked?
When deciding which projects to fund, the GO/KC team looks for the following key factors:
- Is the project “shovel-ready,” meaning can it start fairly quickly?
- Does it align with existing city capital plans?
- Can the city leverage outside funding to make the money go further?
- Will the project promote development?
- Will it improve public safety?
- Does the project address a regulatory mandate?
Public input and community engagement are also essential. Companion resolutions and associated maps outline the specifics of each project and where it will be located.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does KC Gold mean?
When you see “KC Gold,” it typically refers to Kansas City’s commitment to improving infrastructure and services. It’s often associated with projects funded by general obligation bonds, aiming to enhance the city’s overall quality of life. Think of it as an investment in the future of KC, from roads and bridges to parks and public safety. The gold color symbolizes the value and prosperity these improvements are meant to bring to the community.
Who funds general obligation bonds?
General obligation (GO) bonds are primarily funded by Kansas City taxpayers. When the city proposes a GO bond, it goes to a public vote. If approved, the city sells the bonds to investors, promising to repay them with interest over a set period. The money to repay these bonds comes directly from property taxes and other city revenues. So, in essence, the residents of Kansas City are the ones who ultimately fund these bonds and the projects they support.
What is the sidewalk prioritization plan in Kansas City?
Kansas City’s sidewalk prioritization plan is a data-driven strategy for determining which sidewalks get repaired or replaced first. It considers factors like pedestrian volume, proximity to schools and transit stops, and the severity of disrepair. The goal is to make the most impactful improvements with available funding, focusing on areas where sidewalks are most heavily used and where repairs are most urgently needed. This plan helps ensure that sidewalk investments are equitable and benefit the greatest number of residents.
Closing Thoughts
The GO/KC program promises better infrastructure, improved public spaces, and a higher quality of life for people living in Kansas City. It’s also committed to transparency, accountability, and ongoing community engagement.
The long-term impact of GO/KC will be significant, helping to shape Kansas City’s future for generations to come.