Thursday, June 20, 2013

Kane: Holland leading a witch hunt

By NICK SLOAN, nick@kansascitykansan.com

KANSAS CITY, KAN. ---- Even before the final candidate interviews were given to Don Budd Jr. and Nathan Barnes, fireworks erupted at Thursday night's Unified Government Board of Commissioners meeting.

UG commissioner Mike Kane accused Unified Government Mayor/CEO Mark Holland in leading a "witch-hunt" against Budd Jr. and Barnes.

He also criticized Holland and Wyandotte County Administrator Dennis Hays for not finding out about the tax issues.

"I've been on this commission for eight years," Kane said. "This bugs me in a serious way. This stands to be the best commission we've ever had." 

He also accused Holland of "letting former elected officials lead" him. While Kane did not use any names, it's worth noting former UG Mayor/CEO Carol Marinovich was in attendance in Thursday's meeting.

She, along with Holland's predecessor Joe Reardon, endorsed Holland's campaign. Kane, meanwhile, endorsed fellow commissioner Ann Murguia for mayor in this spring's election.

After Kane's remarks, a portion of the crowd gave him a loud applause.

Candidate interviews are happening now. More soon.