Marina
In a significant development concerning Kansas City’s leadership, Mayor Quinton Lucas and the City Council have unanimously voted to extend the suspension of City Manager Brian Platt indefinitely.
This decision follows a recent whistleblower lawsuit that has raised serious questions about Platt’s conduct during his tenure.
Details of the Suspension
- Initial Suspension: Brian Platt was initially suspended with pay on March 6, 2025, following a jury’s verdict in favor of former Communications Director Chris Hernandez. Hernandez alleged that Platt had encouraged misleading the media and subsequently retaliated against him. The jury awarded Hernandez a $900,000 settlement.
- Extended Suspension: On March 20, 2025, the City Council ratified Mayor Lucas’s decision, extending Platt’s suspension. Platt will continue to receive his annual salary of $380,000 during this period.
Interim Leadership
During Platt’s suspension, Kimiko Gilmore, the Deputy City Manager, has been appointed as the acting City Manager.
Her monthly salary has been set at $16,701.01. The Council has not specified the duration of her interim role.
Background on Brian Platt
- Tenure: Brian Platt assumed the role of Kansas City’s City Manager in December 2020, transitioning from his previous position in Jersey City, New Jersey.
- Contract and Compensation: In March 2024, the City Council approved a contract extension for Platt through August 2027, increasing his salary from $265,000 to $308,000 for the year 2025, making him the city’s highest-paid employee.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
- Whistleblower Lawsuit: In November 2022, Chris Hernandez filed a lawsuit alleging that Platt had suggested city staff mislead the media and that he faced retaliation for opposing this directive. The jury’s favorable verdict for Hernandez has significantly impacted Platt’s standing.
- Public Response: Following the lawsuit, the Urban Council released an open letter urging the Mayor and City Council to terminate Platt, citing concerns over alleged patterns of misconduct. The letter highlighted issues of racism, sexism, and retaliation against minority and female employees.
The suspension of City Manager Brian Platt marks a pivotal moment in Kansas City’s governance, reflecting the complexities of municipal leadership and accountability.
As the situation unfolds, the City Council’s forthcoming decisions will significantly influence the city’s administrative direction and public trust.