News & Issues
Stories from around the Kansas City Metro area on a variety of topics.
Johnson County Becomes Crucial Battleground in Election 2024
In Republican-dominated Kansas, Johnson County is increasingly seen as a toss-up by both Republicans and Democrats this election year.
Wanted: Poll Workers. Must Love Democracy.
A coalition is making a national push to encourage hundreds of thousands of Americans to serve as poll workers in November’s presidential election.
‘Love, Kansas’ Campaign Entices Would-be Workforce
A new “Love, Kansas” talent recruitment campaign seeks to attract workers to address a looming workforce shortage in the state.
Farm to Trouble: Drainage Tile Drives Nutrient Pollution
Agricultural drainage tile, used by farmers to increase crop yields, is a main contributor to excess nutrient runoff in Mississippi River basin waterways.
Nick’s Picks | Robert Courtney, Primary Elections and Heat
Scorching heat, primary election season and the release of Robert Courtney from prison top this week’s news in Kansas City.
Amelia Earhart Event Sparks Hope for Finding Lost Plane
Experts recently gathered in Atchison to share theories and research as part of efforts to find the lost plane piloted by groundbreaking aviator Amelia Earhart.
Jackson County Prosecutor Candidates Make Their Cases
Candidates for Jackson County prosecutor are dealing with questions about how they would prioritize violent crime versus more common nonviolent property crime.
Community Colleges Confront Slumping Enrollment. Can it be Fixed?
Enrollment at community colleges in Missouri and Kansas have declined nearly 30% since 2012 as fast-growing technical schools pose stiff competition.
Kansas City Strikes Out on Big Bid for Sustainability Funds
The Kansas City area won’t get any of nearly $200 million it sought as part of a nationwide competition for $4.3 billion in federal sustainability grants.
Kansas City Home Builders Push Back on Energy Efficiency Rules, Blame Them for Housing Crunch
Homebuilders say Kansas City’s energy efficiency standards hinder housing construction and increase costs. Environmentalists say they combat climate change.