Central Missouri News

Congressman Mark Alford, representing Missouri's 4th District and chairing the House Small Business Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Regulations, has formally requested a relocation of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Kansas City regional office to Columbia, Missouri. This request was directed to Kelly Loeffler, the head of the SBA.

Alford's letter follows an announcement by Administrator Loeffler about moving regional offices out of sanctuary cities. While Kansas City is not officially a sanctuary city, its policies are described as "sanctuary city-adjacent." Alford argues that Columbia offers a better alternative due to its proximity to educational institutions and rural communities.

In his letter, Alford stated: “I am writing to express my strong support for your commitment to relocating SBA Regional Offices out of sanctuary cities and into the heart of America. I urge you to strongly consider Columbia, Missouri, as a potential location."

He highlighted Columbia's educational environment: "Columbia is home to the University of Missouri...the largest University in the State with over 30,000 students. Along with Stephens College and Columbia College, the city’s student population exceeds 40,000."

Alford also noted that "Columbia is home to Missouri’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), which serves thousands of entrepreneurs annually." He believes that moving the office would enhance cooperation between SBDC and SBA.

The congressman emphasized Columbia's surrounding rural communities where small businesses play a crucial role in local economies: "Placing the SBA in the heart of Missouri would ensure it remains committed to Main Street businesses and rural entrepreneurs who need its support the most."

Regarding Kansas City's policies aligning with sanctuary city values, Alford remarked: “While Kansas City is not officially a sanctuary city...its leadership has embraced policies that align with sanctuary city values.” He suggested this relocation could reinforce state priorities by choosing Columbia over cities leaning towards leftist policies.