Fri Feb 28 08:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Platte County Commissioners Sued Over Rejected Children’s Mental Health Tax

**Platte City, MO** – A lawsuit has been filed against Platte County commissioners for refusing to implement a quarter-cent sales tax dedicated to children’s mental health services, despite its approval by 56% of voters in November. Plaintiffs Tara Bennett and Warren “Greg” Plumb argue the commissioners’ refusal violates the will of the people and constitutes a dereliction of duty.

The tax, intended to fund vital mental health resources in a county severely lacking providers (one for every 840 residents, half the state average), was passed by a clear majority. However, all three commissioners – Scott Fricker, Joe Vanover, and Dagmar Wood (whose term ended December 2024) – voted against implementing it. Newly elected commissioner Allyson Berberich has yet to comment on her stance.

Commissioners cited a Missouri statute using the word “may” instead of “shall” to justify their decision, claiming it grants them discretion. Advocates counter this is a misinterpretation, emphasizing the clear mandate from the electorate. Commissioner Vanover further stated his opposition to tax increases and argued that parents should solely address their children’s mental health needs. Commissioner Fricker claimed the tax would “disenfranchise future voters” due to its lack of a sunset clause and that he represents the 70% who either didn’t vote or voted against the measure.

The lawsuit also names the Missouri Department of Revenue and its director, Patricia Vincent, as defendants, requesting a swift ruling to enable tax collection to begin April 1st. Supporters argue the commissioners are prioritizing their personal political agendas over the urgent mental health needs of the county’s children, citing the significant shortage of providers and the success of similar programs in neighboring counties like Jackson County, which assisted over 50,000 children through its Children’s Services Fund. The plaintiffs maintain that the commissioners have a legal and moral obligation to implement the will of the voters. The case promises a legal battle over the interpretation of state law and the balance of power between elected officials and the electorate.

Read More