Marina
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Former Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes has officially been appointed as the interim Jackson County executive, taking over following the recall of Frank White Jr. The appointment was announced Thursday, marking an important step in the county’s leadership transition.
Appointment Details and Duration
Reports confirmed Wednesday night that Barnes would temporarily assume the role. According to Jackson County legislators Jalen Anderson and Manny Abarca IV, she will serve as interim executive for up to 30 days.
Legislative Chair DaRon McGee made the appointment official during a Thursday afternoon press conference. Barnes will formally begin her duties once the recall election results are certified, which is expected as soon as next week.
Meanwhile, the county clerk’s office will begin accepting applications for a permanent county executive starting Friday.
Barnes’ Historic Legacy in Kansas City
Barnes is no stranger to public service. In 1999, she became the first woman ever elected mayor of Kansas City and was reelected in 2003. She is widely recognized for spearheading a major downtown revitalization project, which remains one of her most significant achievements.
Her return to government leadership now places her at the forefront of another crucial transition in Jackson County.
Frank White’s Statement on the Transition
Outgoing executive Frank White Jr. released a statement praising Barnes’ leadership and dedication:
“I am grateful to former Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes for her willingness to serve during this important time of transition. With her long and distinguished record of public service, Mayor Barnes brings the steady leadership and dedication our community deserves. As her uncle Walter Cronkite once said, ‘I can’t imagine a person becoming a success who doesn’t give this game of life everything he’s got.’ Mayor Barnes has lived that truth throughout her career.”
White added that he has instructed his staff to support Barnes in her transition, emphasizing that her temporary appointment will allow the legislature to conduct a transparent and effective selection process.
Quick Facts at a Glance
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Interim Executive | Kay Barnes |
| Previous Executive | Frank White Jr. (recalled) |
| Appointment Duration | Up to 30 days |
| Recall Election Certification | Expected next week |
| Applications Open For Successor | Friday (via county clerk’s office) |
| Notable Achievement | First woman KC mayor, led downtown renewal |
The appointment of Kay Barnes as interim Jackson County executive marks a significant leadership shift in Kansas City politics. With her proven record as the city’s first female mayor and her role in downtown revitalization, Barnes brings both experience and stability to the office during a time of transition. As the county prepares for the next permanent executive, her leadership ensures continuity and public trust in the selection process.