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Ken McClure, the former mayor of Springfield, has been appointed to the Missouri Ethics Commission (MEC) by Governor Mike Kehoe, marking a return to public service just months after completing his tenure at City Hall.
The Missouri Ethics Commission, responsible for overseeing lobbying, campaign finance, and conflict of interest regulations, has been operating with multiple vacancies, hindering its ability to effectively investigate complaints.
McClure’s addition is expected to bring much-needed experience and leadership to the six-member body.
McClure’s Long Record of Public Service
Ken McClure brings a distinguished background in public service to his new role. In addition to serving eight years as Springfield’s mayor, he was previously a city council member and held several key positions in state and local government, including:
- Chief of staff to former Governor Matt Blunt
- Administrator at Missouri State University
- Leadership roles at City Utilities of Springfield
- Public service work in Jefferson City
Despite previously suggesting he was ready for retirement and a quieter life after office, McClure’s commitment to service continues with this state-level appointment.
While McClure declined to comment specifically on his selection due to “the nature of the work,” he shared that life after his mayoral term has remained active and engaging.
MEC Facing Operational Challenges
The Missouri Ethics Commission has struggled with staffing gaps, limiting its ability to process ethics complaints and carry out enforcement.
The appointment of McClure, alongside Jim Martin, a retired educator from Perryville, is seen as a step toward restoring the board’s functionality.
Jim Martin previously served as an instructor for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in the Missouri Schools for the Severely Disabled system.
The appointment of Ken McClure to the Missouri Ethics Commission marks a significant move to revitalize the commission’s oversight capabilities.
With decades of experience in government, utilities, and higher education, McClure brings seasoned leadership to a board crucial for ensuring transparency and accountability in Missouri politics.
As the MEC seeks to overcome its backlog and fill remaining vacancies, McClure’s expertise could play a pivotal role in advancing its mission.