KC light rail to go on November ballot

By LYNN HORSLEY The Kansas City Star The Kansas City Council today agreed to seek voter approval in November for a light rail line that is envisioned as the start of a larger regional transit system. The council voted 12-0 in favor of a Nov. 4 ballot measure that calls for a 3/8-cent sales tax increase, beginning April 1 and lasting 25 years to help pay for a 14-mile starter line stretching from Interstate 29-Vivion Road in the Northland to Bruce R. Watkins Drive and 63rd Street. “We have a good opportunity to pass this in November,” said Councilman Russ Johnson, who headed the council’s effort to draft that ballot proposal. “We know the voters are ready for this.” Councilman John Sharp said it’s been difficult to craft a plan that can unite the community, but he believes this plan does that. “It not only goes to where the... [read full story]