Sex, graft and executive financial turmoil: Jackson County needs a thorough scrubbing
The dysfunction in Jackson County continues.
Sheriff Mike Sharp is resigning. Wednesday, the Star detailed an alleged affair involving Sharp and an employee of his office, Christine Lynde.
Court papers claim Sharp’s relationship with Lynde was romantic, sexual, and financial. The filings allege Sharp gave her pay raises and perks not available to other employees.
The documents claim Sharp and Lynde took trips together partially on the taxpayer’s dime. In a deposition, Sharp admitted having sex with both Lynde and his now ex-wife.
Oh, and Lynde is suing Jackson County for harassment.
Sharp’s resignation takes effect Thursday. In a terse letter to the county executive and the legislature, Sharp said he wanted to avoid “further disruption” to the office.
He will not be missed.
The lurid story is just the latest crisis for the county’s government. Jackson County Executive Frank White’s personal financial challenges continue. Last week, Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway said she would scrutinize the county’s books for irregularities and improper spending.
Last year, White and the county legislature battled repeatedly over conditions and spending at the decrepit county jail. Personnel decisions were challenged. Some property appraisals have been questioned.
Former Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders has pleaded guilty to a federal felony.
The hits just keep on coming.
Jackson Countians must demand accountability, and change at the courthouse. It now appears increasingly likely that voters will be asked to limit the terms of county legislators and officials, as well as the sheriff and prosecuting attorney.
While we haven’t seen the final product, and term limits are a complicated issue, it’s pretty clear voters will have the opportunity to break up entrenched corruption in the county. Term limits would help do that.
The county’s charter hands the responsibility for an interim sheriff to the county executive — White — but some legislators said Wednesday they think they have the authority under state law to review his choice. Another ugly battle may result.
That means voters should also be asked this year to clean up the charter language concerning replacement of the sheriff and other county officials if they leave office.
The ongoing problems at the courthouse can be fixed, but residents must demand reform. A top-to-bottom review of Jackson County government is warranted, and soon.
Voters may want to pursue professional management at the courthouse, for example. There may be other ways to bring 21st century improvements to county government.
Earlier this year we said Jackson County politics need a thorough scrubbing. Sadly, Mike Sharp’s stunning downfall has further stained the county. Hot water, soap and sunshine are needed now more than ever.
This story was originally published April 18, 2018 at 4:50 PM with the headline "Sex, graft and executive financial turmoil: Jackson County needs a thorough scrubbing."