5 Essential Facts About KMBC 9 News: Unpacking The Kansas City Powerhouse In 2025

KMBC 9 News continues its long-standing tradition as Kansas City’s trusted source for local and national information, serving the Missouri and Kansas metro area as the ABC television affiliate. As of December 15, 2025, the station remains a dominant force in the market, consistently delivering comprehensive coverage that spans from critical severe weather alerts to in-depth political reporting and the latest updates on the beloved Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Current sports teams.

Owned by media giant Hearst Television, KMBC-TV (Channel 9) broadcasts from its studios at 1049 Central St. and is committed to not just delivering the news, but actively engaging with the community through significant public service initiatives. The station's focus in late 2025 highlights a renewed emphasis on local governance, including the complex issues surrounding Jackson County property tax relief, alongside major annual community outreach programs.

Meet the Pillars: Prominent KMBC 9 News On-Air Personalities

KMBC 9 News is defined by its experienced and familiar team of journalists, many of whom have become household names in the Kansas City metro area. These anchors and reporters provide the face and voice of the station's commitment to quality journalism, from the early morning FirstNews team to the late-night broadcasts. The following is a list of some of the most recognizable and longest-serving members of the KMBC news family:

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• Kris Ketz (News Anchor): A true veteran of the Kansas City airwaves, Kris Ketz has been a fixture at KMBC Channel 9 for over twenty-five years. Known for his calm demeanor and deep knowledge of local issues, he is one of the station's most recognizable news anchors, often leading the morning and early evening broadcasts. His longevity provides a sense of stability and authority to the news desk.
• Kelly Eckerman (News Anchor): Joining KMBC in 1990 as a reporter, Kelly Eckerman quickly rose through the ranks. In 1997, she was promoted to co-anchor, often sharing the desk with the legendary Larry Moore on the 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. newscasts. Her career is marked by a dedication to impactful storytelling and community reporting.
• Larry Moore (Former/Longtime Anchor): While no longer on the main anchoring rotation, Larry Moore remains one of the most significant figures in KMBC history. His tenure set the standard for local news in Kansas City, and his influence is still felt through the journalists he mentored and the station's overall journalistic approach.
• Jamie Weiss (News Anchor/Reporter): Known for his active involvement in community-focused segments, Jamie Weiss is a key part of the current news team. He is often seen spearheading the station's "Banding Together" initiative, which supports local school bands, showcasing KMBC’s dedication to local education.
• The KMBC Weather Team: The station prides itself on its dedicated weather staff, providing crucial severe weather alerts and forecasts. The team is essential for a region prone to unpredictable weather, offering real-time updates and the KMBC 9 News and Weather app for mobile access.

Unrivaled Local Coverage: The KMBC 9 News Editorial Focus in 2025

The core mission of KMBC 9 News is to deliver timely, relevant, and comprehensive coverage tailored to the unique needs of the Kansas City community. In 2025, the station’s editorial focus has been sharp, concentrating on several high-impact local stories and ongoing issues that directly affect residents’ lives, solidifying its topical authority in the region.

Deep Dive into Jackson County Property Tax Relief

One of the most persistent and critical local stories covered extensively by KMBC is the ongoing debate and executive action surrounding property tax relief in Jackson County. The station has provided continuous updates on proposed legislation and community impact, ensuring residents are fully informed about changes to their financial landscape. This detailed reporting highlights KMBC's role as a watchdog for local government transparency and accountability.

The Kansas City Sports Phenomenon

As the ABC affiliate, KMBC 9 News offers unparalleled coverage of the Kansas City Chiefs, providing all the necessary updates, postgame analysis, and fan reaction. Beyond the NFL, the station has recently focused on the burgeoning success of the Kansas City Current, including a dedicated documentary highlighting the team’s historic new stadium. This commitment to local sports connects directly with the city's passionate fan base.

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The station also utilizes its various platforms, including the KMBC.com website and its social media channels, to deliver real-time traffic updates and breaking news, ensuring that Kansas City residents can stay informed whether they are at home or on the go.

Community Impact: KMBC 9 Cares and Key Initiatives

KMBC 9 News is more than just a broadcast station; it is a major community partner, leveraging its platform to drive significant positive change. This corporate social responsibility is primarily channeled through its long-running "KMBC 9 Cares" initiative, which supports various local causes and non-profit organizations.

The $400,000 Goal for KMBC 9 Cares for Kids

A major focus for 2025 is the station’s flagship "KMBC 9 Cares for Kids" campaign. This initiative aims to raise a substantial amount of money to support local children's charities and educational programs. The announced fundraising goal of $400,000 for the year demonstrates a renewed and ambitious commitment to improving the lives of young people across the metro area. Programs like this reinforce the station's connection to the community it serves.

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Recognized Excellence and Behind-the-Scenes Talent

The dedication to quality journalism at KMBC has not gone unnoticed. While national Edward R. Murrow Award winners are announced later in the year, the station consistently competes for and secures regional awards for its investigative reporting and documentary work. The strength of the station lies not only in its on-air talent but also in its dedicated behind-the-scenes staff, which includes professionals like Newscast Producer Alaina Hand and Digital Editor Nick Sloan, who ensure the delivery of over 50 hours of news content each week across all platforms.

The station’s commitment to providing a balanced perspective is also evident in its regular KMBC Editorial segments, which address local concerns and call for civic engagement, such as the recent editorial on the need for smarter driving in the metro area. This blend of hard news, sports, and community advocacy confirms KMBC 9 News’s status as a comprehensive and essential media entity in the heart of Kansas City.