Screenland Armour Loses Property Tax Appeal, Plans to Continue Fight
NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Screenland Armour, an independent movie theater located in a nearly century-old building on Armour Road, announced this week that it has lost its appeal to Clay County regarding a disputed increase in property taxes.
According to the theater, the county approved a 113% increase in its most recent assessment, which the business says represents a 409% rise since 2020. The owners argue that such a sharp jump threatens the sustainability of small businesses like theirs.
“We’re going to keep fighting for what we believe is an unjust increase to this nearly 100-year-old building,” the theater said in a public statement. “There seems to be no care for small businesses or their longevity, nor is there transparency in where these massive increases are needed.”
The case will now move forward to the Missouri State Tax Commission, where the theater intends to continue its challenge.
Rising commercial property valuations have been a point of contention for many small business owners across the Kansas City area and the state. Critics say the increases are burdensome and lack clear justification, while county officials argue that assessments are based on statutory requirements and market data.
Screenland Armour, which has built a reputation as a local hub for independent films, classic screenings, and community events, emphasized the broader strain facing small businesses. In its statement, the theater cited escalating costs not only in taxes, but also utilities and insurance.
The theater encouraged residents to continue supporting local businesses as they navigate what owners describe as an increasingly difficult operating environment.
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