Government

How Trump’s views on climate raise questions for Kansas’ biggest bet: a $4B Panasonic plant in De Soto

By Tommy Felts / February 3, 2025

Editor’s note: This story was originally published by Kansas City PBS/Flatland, a member of the Kansas City Media Collective, which also includes Startland News, KCUR 89.3, American Public Square, The Kansas City Beacon, and Missouri Business Alert. Click here to read the original story. Headwinds don’t dampen enthusiasm of company executives, government officials The mammoth $4 billion…

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Kansas student’s mobility tech for visually impaired users wins Congressional App Challenge

By Tommy Felts / January 25, 2025

An Overland Park eighth grader’s app idea — using object detection and text-to-speech technology to help visually impaired individuals navigate their surroundings — earned him a visit to the principal’s office, then an opportunity to showcase his innovation in Washington, D.C. “I actually came across a video online, and it was about this blind woman…

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TikTok ban would mean an ‘astronomical’ change for these Kansas City content creators

By Tommy Felts / January 16, 2025

Editor’s note: The following story was published by KCUR, Kansas City’s NPR member station, and a fellow member of the KC Media Collective. Click here to read the original story or here to sign up for KCUR’s email newsletter. Video creators around Kansas City are concerned about their livelihoods and Congress’ ability to limit free speech if the Supreme Court…

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Mayor proposes $1M in off-duty LEO pay; River Market eyes ‘witching hours’ security to combat crime wave

By Tommy Felts / January 16, 2025

An ordinance pushed by Mayor Quinton Lucas would fund extra security services in KCMO business districts through collaboration with regional law enforcement agencies — a move aimed at preventing more thefts, break-ins and vandalism incidents targeted at Kansas City small businesses. Lucas’ proposal would invest up to $1 million to increase the presence of off-duty deputies…

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KCMO secures $11.8M to expand city’s EV charging infrastructure, targeting underinvested neighborhoods  

By Tommy Felts / January 14, 2025

A freshly charged tranche of funding is expected to help power Kansas City’s efforts to install 256 new electric vehicle charging points across urban and suburban areas of the city, Mayor Quinton Lucas announced Tuesday. “This project will help cement Kansas City’s commitment to sustainable transportation and access to electric vehicle resources,” Lucas said. “A…

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