Kansas City appoints new city manager — Kansas City, Missouri, has appointed Mario Vasquez as its new city manager. Vasquez has worked for the city for more than 28 years in various roles, most recently serving as director of city planning and development. He intends to focus on housing, infrastructure investment, economic development and improving public service delivery. Learn more here.
Overland Park announces new parks and recreation director — Overland Park has named Bryan Toben as its new parks and recreation director. Toben has been with the department for 28 years, serving as deputy director since 2020. Read more about Toben.
Raymore finance director honored for government excellent — Elisa Williams, finance director for Raymore, has received the Excellence in Government award from the Missouri Government Finance Officers Association. Williams, who has held the role since 2018, was recognized at the association’s spring conference. The award honors public servants with at least 10 years of service for their integrity, notable achievements and leadership. Read more about Williams and the GFOA.
Unified Government earns financial reporting award — The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, received a Certificate of Achievement in Financial Reporting for its 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. This marks the 24th year the UG has earned this award. View more information about the award.
Raytown recognized for operational efficiency — Tyler Technologies has awarded Raytown for excellence in operational efficiency. The city was among nine municipalities recognized for successfully utilizing Tyler Technologies’ public sector software products to improve public service delivery, including streamlining permitting and licensing processes. Learn more.
Lenexa approves Ad Astra pool redesign — Lenexa has finalized plans for a full reconstruction of the Ad Astra pool following extensive public engagement. The project is funded through the city’s 3/8-cent sales tax. Learn more about the redesign.
Independence reopens Rotary Park — Independence has rededicated Rotary Park after a $135,000 renovation, funded by the city’s Parks Improvement Sales Tax. The ceremony on May 22 showcased the park’s new features and upgrades. Read more here.
Parkville adopts short-term rental policy for World Cup — The Parkville Board of Aldermen has unanimously approved a temporary short-term rental policy to accommodate visitors for the 2026 World Cup. With limited hotel availability, the city seeks to expand lodging options during the three-month exception period next June. Learn more.
Raytown announces new city manager— Diane Egger has been appointed as city manager of Raytown, Missouri, on May 27. Egger has cumulated over 23 years of experience, most recently working as Raytown’s community development director since July 2022 and formerly had various roles with Independence. Learn more about Egger.
