What’s on the Ballot: Jackson County’s November 4 Special Election

On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, voters across Jackson County, Missouri will head to the polls for a special election that could reshape how local government works — and how accountable it is to the people it serves.

This isn’t a presidential or congressional race, but it’s an important local vote with real impact. The Jackson County Special Question Election gives residents the chance to decide whether the County Assessor — the official responsible for determining property values and tax assessments — should continue to be appointed or become an elected positionchosen directly by voters.

The Question You’ll See on Your Ballot

“Shall Articles III, IV, and V of the Jackson County Charter be amended to require that the Charter Office of the Jackson County Assessor no longer be a qualified appointee and instead be an elected position?”

In plain terms:

• A “Yes” vote means the Assessor would be elected by Jackson County voters.

• A “No” vote means the Assessor would continue to be appointed by county leadership.

Why This Election Matters

The Assessor’s office has been at the center of controversy in recent years, especially after steep property assessment increases in 2023 that left many residents shocked by higher tax bills. For many, this raised questions about fairness, oversight, and transparency.

Supporters of the change argue that making the Assessor an elected position will make the office more accountable to voters and less influenced by political appointments. Opponents counter that keeping it appointed helps ensure professional qualifications and expertise drive the work, rather than campaign politics.

Either way, this decision will shape how the county’s property tax system — a major source of local school and city funding — operates for years to come.

When and How to Vote

• Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025

• Poll Hours: 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• Early Voting: No-excuse absentee voting is already open through November 3.

• Registration Deadline: The deadline to register has passed, but you can check your registration status at www.kceb.org (Kansas City residents) or www.jcebmo.org (Jackson County Election Board).

Even if you think local issues don’t affect you directly — they do. From school budgets to infrastructure and housing affordability, county decisions touch every part of daily life.

Why This Matters to the Queer Community

At QueerVoter.org, we believe participation at every level of government is an act of empowerment. Local elections like this one often fly under the radar, but they’re where representation and accountability start.

Queer Kansans and Missourians know what it means to demand visibility. When we vote — especially in local elections — we show that our community pays attention, we care about good governance, and we expect transparency.

Even when a ballot question seems technical, our collective voice helps shape a county that values fairness and equity for everyone.

Let’s Make Our Voices Count

If you live in Jackson County, make your plan to vote on or before November 4.Bring a valid photo ID, know your polling location, and talk to your friends about this important vote.

Local power is people power — and that includes us.

Mission reminder: QueerVoter.org is dedicated to breaking down barriers and empowering the LGBTQ+ community to become informed, engaged, and active participants in the democratic process. Your vote is your voice — and it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to create change.