Independence residents have a big choice on the November 3 ballot: whether to authorize up to $19.9 million in general obligation bonds to restore five city-owned historic sites.
The five sites
The bond would fund work at the Bingham-Waggoner Estate, the Vaile Mansion, the Truman Memorial Building, the 1827 Log Courthouse, and Old Fire Station No. 1. The Log Courthouse was the first seat of government in Jackson County and, for decades, the only courthouse between Independence and the Pacific Ocean. Old Fire Station No. 1 is next to a museum where volunteers and retired firefighters care for vintage trucks, including a 1928 American LaFrance engine, and say urgent repairs are needed to keep the building from deteriorating.
What the money would do
The 20-year bond would pay for renovations, improvements, and equipment upgrades, along with a long-term business plan intended to help the sites become financially self-sufficient once the bond is paid off. If voters approve it, Independence residents would get free admission to all five sites until the bonds are retired.
What it would cost
Local reporting says that in the first year, residents would pay a levy of about 14.5 cents per $100 of assessed property value. The city currently spends roughly $125,000 to $150,000 a year to operate its historic sites. Property taxes can be a tough sell in Jackson County, and a bond measure for general building maintenance failed last year, so supporters know the ballot question isn’t a sure thing.
What supporters say, and what voters weigh
Supporters, including the Campaign for Independence, Missouri’s Campaign for the Historic Sites, say these city-owned landmarks are part of what distinguishes Independence from its neighbors. They also point out that city officials had previously considered selling some of the properties, and a consultant said the city would likely be unable to sell the five sites until the 20-year repayment period ended. Others may hesitate to add to property tax bills, and because city officials estimate the city needs about $900 million to repair its many aging buildings, some residents may ask whether these five sites are the right priority.
What to know before you vote
- The City Council voted 7-0 in August to place the question on the ballot.
- Review the ballot language on the city’s website.
- Voters don’t have to wait for Election Day. Check your options for early voting in Missouri.
The measure is a good example of how a local election can shape what a community looks like for decades.
