Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City is starting a creative project to solve the problems of housing and community stability amid fast urban growth. Aiming to collect insights directly from citizens and local business owners about their experiences and difficulties in remaining anchored in their areas, the city has launched the “Keep KC In Place” survey.
This new survey is available on the Speak Easy platform, a tool the city is using to facilitate open and inclusive conversations about important local issues. The project addresses growing concerns about rising property values and the displacement pressures they create, which might drive out long-time residents and impact the fabric of local areas.
Opportunities abound as Kansas City grows and embraces new investments; yet, so do the dangers of gentrification. Although development can have unintentional effects on existing communities, it can be seen as a desirable path for cities trying to modernize and draw new citizens. The survey aims to guarantee that all voices, especially those most susceptible to relocation, are heard.
Last year, the City Council adopted Resolution 240997, understanding the need of a proactive approach to control these changes. A call to action in the resolution is to create thorough anti-displacement plans meant to maintain community stability and lower the likelihood of involuntary moves for businesses as well as individuals. Strong backing from Councilmembers Bunch, Bough, Duncan, and Curls helped Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw sponsor the resolution.
The City’s Housing and Community Development Department is leading the fight against displacement in collaboration with the City Planning and Development Department. City planners and legislators want to create competent, efficient policies that will serve the whole community by including survey input into their plans.
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The survey needs community involvement. It provides a venue for people to discuss their personal stories and the particular difficulties they encounter in their communities. Crafting solutions that not only preserve businesses and residents in place but also improve access to affordable housing, local services, and economic possibilities will depend on this information.
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By visiting the SpeakEasy KCMO website, residents and business owners are invited to share their viewpoints under the “Keep KC in Place: An Anti-Displacement Initiative.” More than just a poll, this project guarantees a more stable and inclusive Kansas City by making sure the city’s expansion is balanced and good for everyone.
