Theresa Garza has a record. Read it before you vote.

1. Fired from the county — in writing

Hired as Jackson County Chief of Staff at $199,000 a year. Six months later, the county fired her by letter. Not a resignation — “you will receive a termination letter.”

• “That can equate to stealing county resources.”
• “No loyalty above your self-promotion.”
• “I finally lost all confidence in your ability to serve.”

2. She killed investment in her own ward

A vacant lot on 350 Highway sat empty for five years. Dobbs Tire proposed a modern 8-bay shop. City staff recommended approval; P&Z voted 7–1 for it. On Aug. 11, 2026 the permit failed 5–3 — Garza voted no and worked to convince others to join her. Her words: “not just filling empty buildings.”

3. The attendance record

4 board meetings missed entirely. 6 recorded votes she didn't show for — including votes on city revenue and appointments. All documented in the city's published minutes.

4. The pattern goes back years

2015: disqualified from a Kansas City council race over residency. Court records and news coverage going back to 2011 — all linked, all checkable.