Joplin returning to local revenue as federal COVID-era money dries up

Joplin is preparing to rely more heavily on local revenue as nearly $100 million in federal grant-funded projects begin winding down.

Mayor Rob O’Brian told the KZRG Morning Newswatch that the City Council’s recent budget work sessions produced a balanced spending plan, but the city is entering a different financial environment after several years of American Rescue Plan Act and federal infrastructure funding.

“We’re getting back to what does it look like just on our own revenue,” O’Brian said.

A major focus is Proposition Police and Fire, approved by voters in April. The measure continues a half-cent sales tax previously used to fully fund public safety pensions and redirects the revenue toward increased police and fire pay, benefits and future staffing.

O’Brian said the timing remains somewhat uncertain because the existing pension obligation must first be closed out. He said that could happen by the end of the calendar year or take somewhat longer.

Council members focused first on increasing police and fire pay, with additional staffing expected to follow over time as revenue becomes available.

O’Brian also encouraged more residents to participate in future budget discussions. The work sessions are open to the public, but he said attendance during this year’s meetings was limited.

The mayor also highlighted the new “Future Ready” partnership between Joplin Schools and Missouri Southern State University.

The initiative is designed to give high school students more direct help with college applications, financial aid, campus visits and class registration. O’Brian said the program could be particularly useful for students who would be the first in their families to attend college.