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Christal Watson Elected Kansas City, Kansas Mayor/CEO, First Woman in 20 Years

She plans to explore a 1% earnings tax to help lower property bills after a recent rate increase.

Overview

  • Watson defeated Rose Mulvany Henry to lead the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas.
  • With about 95% of precincts reporting, she led 53.6% to 46.4%, with results pending official certification.
  • She succeeds Mayor and CEO Tyrone Garner, who chose not to seek reelection.
  • Watson emphasized equitable development, workforce initiatives and modern infrastructure, including reinvestment in northeast KCK and continued progress on the west side.
  • She proposed pursuing a 1% earnings tax she says could generate up to $50 million and prioritizing redevelopment of roughly 4,300 vacant lots, with broader economic discussions referencing potential STAR bonds projects.