Land use committee backs foreclosure moratorium resolution and $25,000 parks MOU with Bridging the Gap

Chairman Smith introduced Resolution 21964, a nonbinding legislative statement urging the county executive to implement a temporary moratorium on foreclosure proceedings and tax-lien sales for residential property owners affected by the Jackson County reassessment cycle between 2019 and 2023. Legislator Parker and others questioned whether passage could halt imminent tax‑lien sales; county counsel advised that most sales were already occurring but noted that sales are later subject to circuit‑court confirmation hearings in September or October and that a legislative statement of intent could be considered by judges at those hearings. The committee moved to recommend adoption; the motion was seconded and the committee voted to recommend 21964 for adoption.

The committee also considered Resolution 21966, authorizing the director of Parks & Recreation to execute a memorandum of understanding with Bridging the Gap, a Jackson County nonprofit, to continue conservation planning and natural-area restoration. Tina Spalla of Parks & Rec outlined the Kansas City Wildlands program, proposed restoration sites (Blue Springs Lake Glade, Lake Jacomo conservation areas, Kemper Raptor Education Center) and confirmed the $25,000 authorization is included in the department’s 2025 budget and consistent with Jackson County Code chapter 1030.7. Scott Wagner, executive director of Bridging the Gap, joined Spalla for the presentation. The committee moved, seconded and recommended 21966 for adoption. Both resolutions will proceed to the full Legislature for final action.