Dorri Partain

Managing Editor

During a press conference on Thursday, Oct. 2, at the Jackson County Courthouse (415 E. 12th St.), Chairman of the Jackson County Legislature DaRon McGee announced the selection of a temporary interim County Executive.

Following the recall election on Sept. 30, Jackson County voters passed a ballot question to remove Frank White, Jr. from the office of County Executive, effective following the certification of the election results. The question passed with 64,469 for and 11,191 against.

White has served as County Executive since 2016.

Noting the many years of service in both city and county government, McGee announced that Kay Barnes will hold office as a temporary interim executive while the county legislature works to fill the office for the remaining 13 months of White’s term.

“Her service as interim County Executive will last no longer than 30 days,” stated McGee during this conference. “She will provide stability, experience during this important period of transition for Jackson County employees and residents.”

Barnes served as a 4th District County Legislator from the years 1974 to 1978 and 4th District-At-Large City Council member from 1979 to 1983. In 1999, she was elected as the first woman to hold the office as mayor of Kansas City, serving two terms until 2007.

Following McGee’s introduction, Barnes spoke about her history as an elected official and knowledge of the county legislature as well as the opportunity to serve again.

“I’m delighted to play this minimal role, and will certainly cooperate in any way I can over the next few weeks,” said Barnes. She clarified that her role is only to oversee the day-to-day operations of the county, but, “I’ll enjoy every short minute of it.”

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas spoke briefly on the behalf of members of the City Council, stating, ”We’re excited to work with Mayor Barnes – Interim County Executive Barnes. We look forward also to working with Chairman DaRon McGee and the Jackson County Legislature as they select a permanent Interim as work goes ahead.”

In his closing remarks, McGee stated that according to the County Charter, the Legislature has 30 days to select an interim to complete the remainder of White’s term.

On Saturday, Oct. 4, a Public Listening Session will be held at Longview Community College (500 SW Longview Rd., Lee’s Summit). From 9 to 10 a.m., county residents will have the opportunity to voice the qualifications they believe the next county executive should have.