September 2025

Jump to Events and Training Opportunities

Independence city manager accepts new role — Zach Walker, current city manager of Independence, has accepted a new position as city manager in Bloomington, Minnesota, after a decade with the city. His final day will be Oct. 12. Read more.

Register for the 2025 Heartland Certified Public Manager Conference — This year’s Heartland Certified Public Manager Conference will focus on narrative leadership featuring various speakers and breakout sessions. It will be hosted at the University of Kansas Memorial Union. Learn more and register.

KC Streetcar extension opens this fall — The KC Streetcar Main Street streetcar extension to the University of Missouri – Kansas City will have a grand opening celebration on Oct. 24. Public passenger service will begin immediately following the celebration. Learn more.

Overland Park farmers market nears completion — A $34 million upgrade to Overland Park’s farmers market is nearing completion. New features include permanent shade structures, solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and a community entertainment venue. Learn about the project.

North Kansas City aims to boost youth civic engagement — North Kansas City officials are increasing outreach to local high school students in an effort to strengthen youth involvement in government. The initiative includes frequent meetings and mentorship opportunities, with the goal of cultivating future community leaders. Learn about the work.

Johnson County allocates $2.3 million to address homelessness — The Johnson County Commission has approved over $2.3 million in funding for Metro Lutheran Ministry to support housing for residents experiencing homelessness. The funds will help develop up to 16 units, focusing on site acquisition, rehabilitation and rental assistance. View more information.

Independence nears completion of city square upgrades — Construction on Independence Square is nearing completion, bringing new pedestrian and cyclist accommodations, ADA-compliant features, updated lighting and landscaping. The improvements aim to enhance accessibility and community use. Learn about the upgrades.

Northland breaks ground on $74 million workforce center — Kansas City’s northland broke ground on the Workforce Development Center late last month. The $74 million project will serve students and adults, offering daytime, evening and weekend classes to support education and job training across the area. Learn more here.

For your awareness: fraudulent fee invoices — Several communities have reported a scam where community members receive a PDF invoice from a scammer, requesting payment via wire transfer. The sophisticated hoax is pulling applicant information from meeting materials and then sending branded emails to look like it comes from the city planning department. Please be aware.

Join the KC Economic Outlook Conference — The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and MARC will host the 2025 KC Economic Outlook Conference this fall. The event will feature economic updates and presentations from several guest speakers. Learn more and register for the event.

Give 5 volunteer program opens enrollment — MARC’s Aging and Adult Services department has opened enrollment for its Give 5 volunteer program, which connects older adults with volunteer opportunities. Participants are encouraged to explore multiple nonprofits before selecting a long-term match. Learn more and register here.

Missouri lawmakers repeal Proposition A; amendment proposed — Missouri lawmakers have repealed Proposition A, which included a minimum wage increase and mandated paid sick leave. A newly proposed constitutional amendment could allow it to remain for workers statewide. Learn more here.

Kansas farmers test new wheat hybrids amid climate challenges — Kansas farmers are partnering with researchers to test new wheat hybrids designed to withstand climate-related stress. The experimental varieties aim to increase yields and reduce chemical use, as traditional crops face declining productivity. Learn about the wheat hybrids.

Missouri considers redrawing congressional map — The Missouri legislature is looking to redraw Missouri’s congressional map and make an adjustment to redistricting, following a request from the White House. Lawmakers are reviewing potential changes to the state’s congressional boundaries, with adjustments expected in the coming months. Learn about the potential changes.

Do you want something featured in Management Matters?
Management Matters is always seeking submissions that feature your city
or celebrate regional government accomplishments.
If you have something you wish to share with the region, submit it here!

Visit our Grant Opportunity web page for current grant opportunities open to local governments.

SPECIAL EVENTS

• MARC Board of Directors Meeting — MARC offices, 600 Broadway, Suite 200, Kansas City, Missouri
  Sept. 23, 11:30 a.m. View more information.
• 2025 Heartland Certified Public Manager Annual Conference — Kansas Memorial Union, 1301 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, Kansas
  Oct. 14–15 Register.
• First Suburbs Coalition — North Kansas City Parks & Recreation Center, Ryan Hall,
  1201 Clark Ferguson Drive, North Kansas City, Missouri
  Oct. 17 8:30–11 a.m. Register.
• Kansas City Economic Outlook Conference — Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, 1 Memorial Drive, Kansas City, Missouri
  Nov. 6, 7:30–11:30 a.m. Register.

UPCOMING TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

• Grant Writing Workshop — MARC offices, 600 Broadway, Suite 200, Kansas City, Missouri
  Sept. 17–18, 9 a.m. Register.
• World Cup Preparation: Interactions with Foreign Nationals and Diplomats — Platte County Sherriff’s Office, 11724 NW Plaza Circle, Kansas City, Missouri, 64153
  Sept. 25, 1–4 p.m. Register.