Jackson County voters will decide this November whether to approve a dedicated funding stream for senior services, joining 55 other Missouri counties that have already implemented similar measures.
Question 1 on the Nov. 5 Jackson County ballot would establish a property tax levy of 5 cents per $100 of assessed value on both real and personal property. For an average Jackson County home valued at $250,000, with an assessed value of $47,500, the annual cost would be approximately $23.75.
If approved, the measure would generate between $8 and $10 million annually to fund essential services for residents aged 60 and older, including:
* Home-delivered meals
* Transportation to medical appointments
* Senior centers
* Home safety repairs
* Support services to help seniors remain independent
The funds would be managed by a county-appointed Senior Levy Board and distributed through a process similar to charitable grants to organizations serving seniors.
County Legislators Jalen Anderson and Donna Peyton co-sponsored the ordinance, which passed unanimously.
“Our top priority as a government should be to ensure our seniors are safe, well cared for, and protected,” said Anderson, who represents the county’s District 1 at-large seat.
The push for the ballot measure came from a coalition of more than 50 senior-serving agencies and nonprofits, who point to the county’s growing elderly population. According to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, about 15% of Jackson County’s population is 65 or older, a percentage that has been steadily increasing over the past decade.
Supporters argue that investing in senior services can lead to long-term cost savings by reducing healthcare expenses and delaying or preventing the need for institutional care. They also emphasize the social and emotional benefits for seniors who are able to remain in their homes and communities.
“It embodies our commitment to ensuring that no senior in Jackson County has to choose between staying in their home and receiving the care they need,” said Peyton, the District 2 at-large legislator.
If passed, Jackson County would join neighboring Clay and Platte counties in having a dedicated senior services levy. Clay County’s program, established 20 years ago, brings in $2.6 million annually to fund similar senior support services.
