Kansas City Voters Approve Renewal of 1% Earnings Tax

The tax, which funds critical city services, passed with nearly 79% support.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A serene, photorealistic painting of a lone Kansas City street lamp or city hall building, its surfaces illuminated by warm, angled sunlight and cast in deep, dramatic shadows, capturing the quiet, contemplative mood of the city's decision to renew its essential earnings tax.The renewal of Kansas City's earnings tax ensures the continuation of vital public services that contribute to the city's vibrancy and appeal.Kansas City Today

Voters in Kansas City, Missouri, have approved the renewal of the city's 1% earnings tax, which has provided funding for essential services like public safety, snow removal, road resurfacing, and trash collection since the 1960s. The tax passed with almost 79% of voters supporting the measure, ensuring the continuation of these vital city services.

Why it matters

The earnings tax makes up a significant portion of Kansas City's budget, accounting for around 47% of the general fund and 15% of the total $2.5 billion budget. Its renewal was crucial to maintaining the city's current level of services and infrastructure, which are important factors in attracting residents and businesses to the area.

The details

The 1% earnings tax has been in place in Kansas City since the 1960s, providing funding for a variety of essential city services. Ahead of the vote, local business owner Dan Walsh expressed his support, saying he couldn't imagine the city without the services the tax helps provide. However, voter Andrew McClellan voted against the renewal, arguing that eliminating the tax could have attracted more people and businesses to the city.

  • The earnings tax goes to voters for renewal every five years.
  • The tax will next be on the ballot in 2031.

The players

Linda Lyon

A Kansas City resident who voted in favor of the earnings tax renewal, stating that it is important to have the tax in order to maintain good city services.

Dan Walsh

The owner of Spokes Coffee in downtown Kansas City, who expressed his support for the earnings tax renewal, saying it is imperative to pass the measure in order to continue funding vital city services.

Andrew McClellan

A Kansas City resident who voted against the earnings tax renewal, arguing that eliminating the tax could have attracted more people and businesses to the city.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think it's important if we want good streets and other good services, we need to have the earnings tax.”

— Linda Lyon

“That's why I think it's imperative we pass the thing.”

— Dan Walsh, Owner, Spokes Coffee

“If you go look at some of the fastest growing cities in the United States, most of them do not employ an earnings tax.”

— Andrew McClellan

What’s next

The earnings tax will next be on the ballot for renewal in 2031.

The takeaway

The renewal of the 1% earnings tax in Kansas City ensures the continuation of vital city services and infrastructure, which are crucial for maintaining the city's attractiveness to residents and businesses. While some voters argued that eliminating the tax could have spurred growth, the overwhelming support for the measure demonstrates the community's recognition of the importance of these public services.