Karen Slaughter of Key Coalition Neighborhood

Neighborhood Champion: Karen Slaughter

June 17, 2019  |    |  1 min read

They do it for no pay and little fanfare. Who are they? They are the neighborhood leaders who fight to improve some of the most distressed neighborhoods on the East Side of Kansas City, Missouri. These are the men and women who advocate for better housing, less crime, and more economic opportunity. Through its coverage of the 2019 election in the city, Kansas City PBS introduces you to some of the unsung leaders in the community.

This year’s municipal elections in Kansas City, Missouri, promise sweeping political changes in the metropolitan area’s largest city. A new mayor and a host of freshmen council members will emerge when the final votes are counted in June. Kansas City PBS will focus its election coverage on three topics that these new elected officials will face: affordable housing, violent crime and business tax incentives. We will tell our stories from some of Kansas City’s most hard-pressed neighborhoods. Keep tabs on our coverage by following us on social at #WhoWillLeadKC.

Reading these stories is free, but telling them is not. Start your monthly gift now to support Flatland’s community-focused reporting.

Reflecting on the value of friendship

July 29, 2026

Flatland faith columnist Bill Tammeus gives thanks for the many friendships he has developed and maintained throughout his lifetime.

Related Stories

Nick’s Picks | Heat, Elections, Rodeo and More …

The heat is the big news story in Kansas City this week along with a lot of economic development news and the upcoming election on both sides of the state line

Read More >
Construction begins near Sumner Academy of Arts and Science. In late 2024, voters approved a bond that will fund an addition to the school. (Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon)

KCK steps up work on school buildings promised with $180 million bond package

The Kansas City, Kansas, school district provides an update on several school construction projects.

Read More >
Voters on both sides of the state line head to the polls on Aug. 4, 2026. Ballots are packed with candidates and initiatives. (Vaughn Wheat | The Beacon)

Nick’s Picks | Ballots, Bribery, Baby and More …

The World Cup has left town, some some of the biggest headlines are a man stuck in the toilet of a Porta Potty, upcoming elections, and an alleged scandal in Jackson County.

Read More >