KC area voters back four-day school week, elect new KCK mayor

Jackson County

Residents considered two ballot issues: one on changing the county assessor's office to an elected position, and another on whether the Independence School District may continue a four-day school week under a new state law.

• Voters approved both.

Kansas City, Kansas (KCK)

Voters chose Christal Watson to replace outgoing KCK Mayor Tyrone Garner.

• Watson focused on public safety and neighborhood investment during her campaign.
• She wants stronger collaboration between city hall and local groups, targeted help for small businesses and more equitable investment in Wyandotte County's underserved areas.

Prairie Village

Residents rejected a proposal to eliminate the city's current mayor-council form of government.

• Supporters said the "strong mayor" system gives one person too much control over city decisions. Opponents argued the existing setup has guided Prairie Village's growth into a thriving suburb.
• The vote followed months of debate over plans for a $30 million City Hall and municipal complex.

Go deeper: For more metro-area Election Day results, see the Kansas City Star's complete roundup.