KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A conflict of interest complaint put a hold on deliberations for who should build the new terminal at the Kansas City airport.
Last week, a complaint was filed with the city because Councilwoman Jolie Justus worked with one of the companies that is bidding on the contract.
“I wanted to make sure that any cloud that was lifted even if it is for political reasons be lifted and that we can move forward,” said Councilwoman Justus.
Justus heads the pro-bono arm of the firm she works for. That firm did a case for Burns & McDonnell four years ago but Justus said she did not work on it. Burns & McDonnell is currently bidding for the KCI contract.
“My salary is set not based on how the firm is doing as far as their revenue. My salary is solely on my own merit. I do not share in any bonuses from the firm or no financial bonus or payment based on the firm’s productivity,” said Justus.
Wednesday, the city ethics commission met to decide if there is a conflict of interest. In a unanimous decision, the commission agreed with the city attorney that there is not a conflict.
“I wanted to make sure that any cloud that was lifted even if it is for political reasons be lifted and that we can move forward,” said Justus.
One of the ethics commission members recused herself because she works for another firm that is in the bidding process.
The selection committee hopes to make a recommendation to council next week.
