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How will the 

BY GREG WALTERS

World Cup

affect Raytown?

In less than one month the World Cup Tournament will begin in Kansas City. Since Raytown's border is only one-half mile from the site of the games at Arrowhead Stadium I wondered how the tournament will affect Raytown.

I was contacted early in this process and asked if I knew State Representatie Mike Steinmeyer. Years ago I had worked with Mr. Steinmeyer in his campaign for the Independence City Council. As it turned out he was spearheading the effort in Jefferson City to make funding available to communities to support in emergency services during the Tournament.

The public services affected would be the Raytown Police Department and the Raytown Fire Protection District, which also provides ambulance service to Raytown.

Raytown City Administrator Diane Egger had already made overtures to the World Cup officials in what was to be expected of Raytown. She had contacted me and asked to reach out to Steinmeyer and Raytown's representative on the State Legislature, Donna Barnes. Donna also held a seat on the Committee Representative Steinmeyer was leading.

Two votes down. This was going to be easy.

I took some time to attend a couple of the Fire District's open Public Business Sessions and learned they too, had been in touch with the Committee managing the World Cup Business.

After all the meetings had been held it turned out Raytown faired pretty well. 

The City of Raytown was to receive $100,000 to cover overtime costs for the Police Department. This also covered the day to day costs in equipment use (Police Cars, etc.) for what will probably prove to be a little over of month of service.

I visited with interim Fire Chief Mike Rogers. Interim Chief Rogers shared that in their view the use of equipment and manpower was pretty much what they expected was their job in the first place. That being said, he added that at the end of the tournament they will tally up the over-time and equipment costs to see where they land financially. 

It was interesting to note that Interim Chief Rogers did share that even if they were not compensated by the tournament, they would still be providing ambulance and fire protection service. As he said, "After all, it is our job to respond to emergencies regardless of who is involved".

Well said, Mr. Rogers!

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BY PAUL LIVIUS

Paul’s Rant!

It has been a while since I threw my two cents worth of thoughts into what is going on up at City Hall. So I did some checking.

The Mayor and Bonnaye Mims, have ramped up attacks on their two favorite targets. Morris Melloy, who ran for Alderman in Ward 3 last election and Ward 1 Alderman Greg Walters.

Walters and Melloy both publish social media pages in Raytown.

Alderman Greg Walters and Alderman Garth Bare founded the Raytown Report in 1997. Garth continued to work with Greg on the weekly publication until his untimely death in 1917.

Morris publishes a Facebook page named Raytown Community Awareness.

Both publications receive high marks for keeping the community informed with what is going on in Raytown.

To Morris and Greg’s credit, both have remained true gentleman in their demeanor and handling the McDonough and Mims public attacks.

For his part, Greg told me he does his best to blockout the nonsense from McDonough and Mims.

He gave me the following comment to eplain the importance of maintaining decorum at Raytown public meetings. “It is important to remember the twice monthly meetings of the Board of Aldermen are specifically held for public business. The meetings also provide an opportunity for the public to address elected officials."

For the convenience of the Public, those who wish to address the Board of Aldermen may do so at the beginning of each meeting. Speakers are given five minutes to address the Board. As long as it is a discussion regarding the community of Raytown, speakers are given five minutes to share their thoughts.

This also gives Board members an opportunity to follow up with citizen speakers after the meeting.

Most on the Board understand and shows the proper respect and decorum towards those who speak at public meetings.

Board members are also given time to speak during a section of the meeting named “Reports from Board Members”. Walters recently gave a report of a funding matter of details he had learned of at a recent meetign of the Raytown Fire Protection District.

In his report Walters shared with members of the Board that the City and the Fire District will be receiving approximately $150,000 to help allay overtime costs required by the two governing bodies.

A one-third of the money will go to the Police Department. One third to the Fire Department, and, one third to the Ambulance Service (which is run by the Fire Department).

Next month the World Cup will be coming to Kansas City. Greg told me it is important that this information be shared with the public so they are aware of steps taken to handle emergency services that will undoubtedly increase due to traffic generated at Arrowhead Stadium during  the World Cup games in Kansas City.

To illustrate the impact of what will be a large influx of visitors to our area, Walters said the Raytown Park Department is making available public parking at the city's new Dog Park, and,  the possible use of Colman Park for overflow parking to the World Cup Games.

The Raytown Dog Park is one-half mile from the Truman Sports Complex. Coleman Park is located one mile from the complex.

In the early stages of planning for funding from the State of Missouri, Alderman Walters reached out to Missouri State Representatives Mike Steinmeyer and Donna Barnes to help ensure Raytown would receive the funds needed for Fire, Ambulance and Police overtime during the upcoming World Cup Tournament.

City and Fire officials shared with him that the funding provided by the State is needed and should be adequate to control any contingency in Raytown.

Tomahawk Throwing is Fun! BY GREG WALTERS

The primary difference lies in their design and purpose: a hatchet is a tool optimized for wood processing, while a tomahawk is historically a weapon that has evolved into a versatile, lightweight tactical and survival tool.

I took some time last Saturday to attend the annual early summer Raytown Community Event at Kenagy Park. There were people fishing, free sapling trees for those in interested in dressing up their yards and a number of vendors with plants for late Spring and Early Summer planting.

The event that caught my eye was the Tomahawk Throwing. I was asked if I would like to "give a try". 

Always one for something new, I accepted. The young lady gave me about two minutes of instruction and pointed me at a large three trunk as my target. The first throw took was right handed. With a solid "thump" the head of the tomahawk buried itself into the trunk. 

My young instructor suggested I try using both hands and thowing from directly over my head. The tomahawk left my hands like a rocket launcher, landing with a solid thump just over the bullseye.

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Truth Watch Returns!

A few years ago we introduced a new contributor to our small stable of writers here at the Raytown Report. Some of you may remember Truth Watch. His initial offering on the Raytown Report was entitled “Hold My Beer”.

This story starts where "Hold my beer!" left off.

“RANDOM THOUGHTS”
 BY TRUTH WATCH

One of my pet peeves is litterbugs. Which is an appropriate name to be to be given to those who believe the world is their trashcan. We see this everywhere. In parking lots, on street corners, in our neighborhoods.

The picture to the left shows a heap of trash bags that were “abandoned” in a local neighborhood.

The photo came from a Facebook post from an irate homeowner who is clearly sick and tired of those who believe such behavior is acceptable..

CONTINUING SAGA.

"Here is the edge of the homeless camp this morning. During the heavy hard rains last week, cars were parked here. The picture is of a pile of full trash bags they left behind.

Neighborhood Streets Deserve Attention

Those who travel north on 63^rd Street have probably noticed the new curbs being repaired at the intersection of 63rd and Blue Ridge Cutoff.

Nothing wrong with that! We want our city to look nice for guests attending the World Cup games. Plus, we will be able to enjoy the “new look” of a clean intersection with new curbs and other improvements planned for the Blue Ridge Cutoff long after the last goal is scored at this year's World Cup.

At the same time we would be remiss not to voice a complaint often heard from many home owners in Raytown. Their message is short.

What About Us?

Raytown taxpayers have a point. A huge amount of tax dollars, be they from the American Rescue Act, Storm Sewer Bonds, or the recently renewed sales tax for street improvements has been spent in Raytown in the last few years.

All of those tax dollars, regardless of where they come from, began their journey to Federal, State and Municipal coffers when taxpayers pay their taxes.

No more excuses, Mr. Mayor and Members of the Board of Aldermen. It is high time the people in our neighborhoods receive a taste of their hard earned tax dollars by making improvements to residential neighborhood streets.

A Better Billboard BY GREG WALTERS

There is an interesting billboard at the intersection located at Blue Ridge Cutoff and Raytown Road. I frequently drive by the sign on a regular basis that takes me north to Interstate 70 and beyond. No doubt the sign is targeted at folks who will be attending the World Cup Soccer Tournament this coming July.

When I first saw the billboard I could not help but think something was missing in the message.

After about 10 trips past the sign it dawned on me what that “something” was.

Billboards are a unique form of advertising. The use of them is ageless and is still one of the most effective ways to advertise a product, or, in this case, an event. 

No doubt some clever folks came up with a sign to direct soccer enthusiasts to Downtown Raytown. The sign is located at Blue Ridge Cutoff and Raytown Trafficway. It has kind of an “old fashioned” feel to it.”

The sign does have one fault.

When you consider that some of the folks who will see this sign are coming from places as far away Argentina, England, Algeria, etc. it might be a good idea to add a graphic directing drivers to travel East when they get on Raytown Road.

After all, Raytown Road has two lanes. One points west and one points east.

The fix to the problem is simple. Just add a graphic showing an arrow directing visitors which way to go on Raytown Road to reach
Downtown Raytown.

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BY GREG WALTERS

At last Tuesday's meeting the Raytown Board of Aldermen unanimously endorsed a Proclamation in support of a Self-Directed Support (SDS) Program for families with family members who require "special needs" assistance. Mrs. Jessica Haynes, shown in the center of the photograph holding her son's arm, has been lobbying Legislatures and Senators in Jefferson City to continue State Funding to help families in need with the cost of maintaining their home for developmentally challenged family members.

Haynes made the request through Ward 1 Alderman Greg Walters and Mayor McDonough for a proclamation as a sign of public support to continue the Self-Directed Supports (SDS) program.

To learn more about Mrs. Haynes campaign to improve the lives of our most vulnerable citizens you are invited to visit Mrs. Podcast, "Leading for inclusion. The Missouri Brief". 

FROM JESSICA HAYNES . . . 

Hello Greg,

I wanted to share a new podcast episode for "Leading for Inclusion: The Missouri Brief."

This episode will be a powerhouse—we are bridging the gap between our huge "on-the-ground" local win with the Raytown Proclamation and the structural reality of the SDS program using the "car analogy" (Engine, Steering Wheel, and Brakes).

I've highlighted how the Proclamation serves as a blueprint for other advocates and how local support creates the necessary pressure for our state-level fight. I also made sure to include a special "thank you" to the Board of Aldermen for their role in making this happen.

Thank you again for all your guidance and for giving this mission such a strong platform!

Use the following link to view the Podcast.

https://www.patreon.com/posts/from-to-pistons-156479543?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link 

Our mailbox is exploding with mail from our readers!

You are invited to visit what we call the "Back Page" of the Raytown Report. This section is devoted exclusively to those who wish to share their thoughts on what is happening in Raytown. Take a few minutes to read what your friends and neighbors have to say.

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SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THE
"COMENT PAGE" TO POST YOUR COMMENT

GREG WALTERS

FOREWORD BY ALDERMAN GREG WALTERS

This week we are turning our front page over to Jessica Haynes. Mrs. Haynes is leading a state-wide effort to protect funding for families with children who need "special needs". The funding would help support families to afford raising their children at home. Medical professionals endorse this proactive plan as the best for the child and the families who are faced with the responsibility of bringing their children up to prepare them to become a viable member of the community.

A United Front for
Eastern Jackson County PART 2

By Jessica Haynes

Raytown has always been a city that stands together. On Tuesday, April 21st at 7:00 PM, my family and I will be at City Hall to ask the Mayor and Raytown Board of Aldermen to take a formal stand for our neighbors with disabilities.

We are requesting a Proclamation to protect the Self-Directed Supports (SDS) program—a lifeline that allows residents like my son, AJ, to live at home, hire his own support staff, and continue to remain a vital part of the community he loves.

The State is Watching Raytown! 

This isn't just a local conversation; it has become a statewide story. Journalist Stoker Wieczorek recently highlighted Raytown in Ozarks First, noting that our community is at the forefront of the fight for disability rights. For those who cannot join us in person, the meeting will be live-streamed, allowing the entire region to see Raytown’s leadership in action as we stand up for our own.

The "Budget Boomerang" Effect:

As of July 1st, a state budget cliff threatens to "zero out" the safety infrastructure of this program. This is more than a policy shift; it is a massive fiscal failure.

• The Math: Supporting a neighbor at home costs roughly $50,000 a year.
• The Crisis: Without these supports, the state is legally forced to institutionalize that same person at a cost of over $600,000 a year.

By "saving" a few dollars today, the state is effectively signing a half-million-dollar bill for Missouri taxpayers tomorrow. This is a "Budget Boomerang" that will hit Raytown and our great state of Missouri as a whole 12 times harder than the money the state claims to be saving.

A Bipartisan Fight for Dignity!

We are not fighting this battle alone. We are incredibly grateful for the leadership of Senator Barbara Washington and Representative Donna Barnes, who are championing our cause in the Capitol.

We are also heartened by the powerful commitment from Senator Rusty Black, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Senator Black recently stated that these services are "lifelines that allow Missourians with developmental disabilities to live with dignity."

Senator Black has pledged to work with his colleagues to restore these critical funds. By issuing this Proclamation, our Mayor and Board of Aldermen will provide these state leaders with the "ammunition" they need to tell the Governor: "Raytown protects its own. We choose Independence over Institutions."

We believe that families are the best "quality control." Unlike state-run institutions that often hide behind bureaucratic layers, the SDS model creates a direct line of accountability. We hire, train, and supervise because we are the ones who truly know and care for the people we love.

Join Us at City Hall . . . 

We invite all our Raytown neighbors to join us on April 21st. We will meet in front of City Hall at 6:45 PM for a community photo before the meeting begins at 7:00 PM. Let's show Missouri that Raytown is a Community of advocates who support dignity, fiscal resposibility and most importantly . . . each other.

Raytown Fire Protection District News 

BY GREG WALTERS

The Raytown Fire District is looking for additional storage space for its growing supply of medical equipment such as . . . crutches, wheelchairs, shower stools, and even hospital beds. These items are provided to residents throughout the Community Paramedic Program run by Matt Cushman of the Raytown Fire Protection Disrict. If you need equipment or would like to donate, please contact Mr. Cushman at 816-737-6035.

Raytown

Police Report

March 27, 2026  /  4:21pm

Felony Warrant/Criminal Damage to Property - Gregory Blvd & Hunter Ave.

An officer on routine patrol observed a male on a bike obstructing traffic on 350 and tried to conduct a pedestrian check. The man fled on his bike but was located nearby by other officers, despite the fact that he tried to change his clothes and alter his appearance. He initially provided a false name, but was identified as a subject with a felony warrant who is wanted by the US Marshals. He was taken intocustody on the warrant as well as fleeing/resisting charges, and while at the PD jail, he repeatedly kicked the jail vestibule door, breaking the lock.

March 28, 2026  /  2:00am

Felon in Possession - 55th St & Blue Ridge Cutoff

An officer on routine patrol conducted a traffic stop for an invalid license plate. The driver was flagged in the police database as a convicted felon and armed and dangerous, and officers observed a loaded Draco-style firearm sitting.

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Aldermen to Consider Impeachment

Process at April 14th Meeting  BY GREG WALTERS

Nearly one year ago, newly elected Ward 3 Alderwoman Latrice Thomas was called into the Mayor’s office and told she could no longer serve as Alderman for Ward 3.

She had taken the oath of office shortly before the confrontation with the Mayor took place. . The Mayor’s actions effectively blocked an elected official from performing her duties without any formal process.

Since that day, Ms. Thomas has not been seated at any meeting of the Board of Aldermen.

Missouri law is clear. Under §79.240, a mayor cannot remove an alderman from office.

Only the Board of Aldermen—or a court—has that authority. 

The Mayor’s decision to cut off her access and prevent her from serving bypassed the legal process. Leaving the Board now responsible for deciding whether to formally impeach Ms. Thomas or restore her seat.

At the most recent Board meeting, only three members appeared. Two had notified the Mayor in advance and were excused. Four others did not attend and gave no explanation. The absence of those four members from the Board meeting effectively blocked the meeting being called to order because of a lack of a quorum.

On April 14th, the Mayor will attempt again to convene the Board. The public deserves a lawful, transparent resolution to an issue created nearly a year ago. As stated above, the final decision on this matter rests with the Board of Aldermen.

How to Make Public Comments on April 14

The meeting is open to the public and begins at 7:00 p.m.
Public Comments are the first item on the agenda.

To speak in person:

1. Arrive at City Hall at least 10 minutes before 7:00 p.m.
2. Enter the Council Chamber.
3. The Public Comment sign‑in sheet is immediately to the left as you enter.
4. Sign your name and you will be called in order.
5. Each speaker is allowed five minutes to address the Board on matters concerning the City of Raytown.

To speak via Zoom:

1. Call Raytown City Hall at 816‑737‑6000.
2. Request to be added to the Public Comment Zoom list for the April 14 meeting.
3. You will be given instructions and a time to speak during the meeting.

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BY GREG WALTERS

Raytown Voters to Decide Two
Sales Tax Questions on Tuesday, April 7th

The City of Raytown has used a direct mail campaign and web advertising to "educate" the Raytown Public about two sales tax ballot questions to be decided on April 7th.

In our view any effort to inform voters of the facts is good politics. So, with the help of “artificial intelligence” we are adding to the wealth of information available to the voting public.

The two questions we will be voting on April 7 are two sales tax renewals. One is for Public Safety, the other for Capital Improvements.

How much will the two sales taxes cost taxpayers?

The two taxes will be funded by sales tax on retail sales. The following list shows the combined tax rate in Raytown for most retail transactions.

• Missouri State Sales Tax
• Jackson County Sales Tax
• Raytown Sales Tax
• Raytown Fire District Sales Tax
• Special Swope Park Zoo Sales Tax
• Your total Sales Tax Rate equals.................8.862%*

If you shop at a retail business located in a Special Tax District, such as:
    

    • a Community Improvement District (CID)

    • a Tax Increment Financing District (TIF)

• Your total Sales Tax increases to..................9.475%*

These "Special Tax Districts" are financed in part by consumers through an additonal sales tax at stores like Walmart, Sutherland Lumber and others located in so-called "Tax Improvement Districts."

How will the money collected by the two sales taxes be spent?

If voters approve these two taxes the life span of the taxes will be ten years each. One tax question asks for renewal of a half-cent tax for transportation.The other tax question asks for a three/eighths-cent tax for capital improvements.

Simple majorities by voters are needed for approval of each tax.

According to information from the City's website the tax revenue produced from the two taxes will be spent on . . . 

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT SALES TAX: Will be spent on police equipment, city equipment, and storm water projects.

TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX: Will be spent on street maintenance, salt, brine and other materials and services for effective snow removal operations.

It is important to note the two tax proposals do not mention any specific streets that will be repaired if approved by voters.

Please remember to vote on Tuesday, April 7th.

POLLS OPEN AT 6:00 AM AND CLOSE AT 7:00 PM

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This week week we are turning our page over to Jessica Haynes. Jessica is an advocate of the Missouri Self-Directed Supports (SDS) Program. This State of Missouri funded program assists families with "special needs" support from the state, in raising their children. I had a lengthy talk with Ms. Haynes and was impressed with her understanding of the program and the work she has tasked herself.

INTRODUCTION BY GREG WALTERS

Why Self-Directed Support Matters in Raytown

By Jessica Haynes        Email: jessicasgirls@gmail.com

Raytown is more than just a place on a map to my family; it is the community that holds us together.

Today, I am writing to you not just as a constituent, but as a mother who watches her son, AJ, thrive every day because he is exactly where he belongs: home.

AJ is a young man living with Autism Level 2 (among other developmental disabilities).

Like any other Raytown resident, he has his favorite spots in town, neighbors he recognizes, and a life filled with dignity.

This is possible because of the Missouri Self-Directed Supports (SDS) program. It is a program that allows families like mine to be the architects of our loved ones' lives, ensuring they aren't tucked away in institutions, but are instead active, visible, and loved members of our community.

We recently saw a glimmer of hope when the Missouri House restored pay for the dedicated Personal Assistants who help individuals like our son AJ navigate his world. However, as the budget (HB 10) moves into the Missouri Senate, we are facing a "transition cliff." Vital funding for Community Specialists and the goods and services that make independent living possible for someone with AJ's support needs is still at risk.

When we talk about these cuts, we often talk about "Social Math." And while the numbers are staggering,

I want you to see the soul behind them:

● The Cost of a Life at Home: It costs the state approximately $50,000 per year to provide the support AJ needs to live safely and independently in our home.

● The Cost of a Life Interrupted: Without these home-based supports, the only alternative is institutionalization—a move that costs the state over $600,000 per year.

That is a $550,000 difference for a single person, every single year. But more importantly, it is the difference between a young man waking up in his own bed in Raytown or being moved to a facility far from the people who know his name and his story.

We aren't asking the City of Raytown for a donation or a miracle. We are simply asking our Mayor and Board of Aldermen to stand with us. By issuing a Resolution of Support, Raytown can lead Western

Missouri in telling our State Senators that we value our citizens with disabilities and the common-sense fiscal responsibility that keeps them home.

Supporting the SDS program isn't just a budget decision; it’s a decision about what kind of community we want to be. Let’s keep Raytown a place where everyone—regardless of ability—has a seat at the table and a place to call home.

How You Can Help

● Educate Yourself: Visit MOSDS.org to see the data and the statewide movement to protect our families.

● Join the Local Advocacy: Follow our journey and get updates on local meetings through our

Facebook groups:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2314853719027810 (This is our home group)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/306298879720557

https://www.facebook.com/mosdsfamilygroup

● Contact Our State Senator: Reach out to the Missouri Senate and urge them to restore the full SDS funding (including Community Specialists and IDGS) in the HB 10 budget. Let them know that Community Specialists and IDGS are not "extras"—they are the bridge to independence.

● Support a Local Resolution: Reach out to your local elected officials. Let them know you support a zero-cost Resolution of Support that honors the dignity of our neighbors with disabilities. 

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