Finalists for City Manager participate in public interview for the job

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Three finalists for City Manager had a chance to make their cases before the mayor, city council members and the public Thursday.

It’s been just over a month since former City Manager Brian Platt was fired in a unanimous decision by Mayor Quinton Lucas and the city council. This was just days after a jury sided with a former employee who filed a whistle blower lawsuit against the city, claiming Platt encouraged the staff to lie to the media.

The mayor had promised to move quickly in finding a replacement, as Kansas City has several projects in the works. One of those projects is the hosting of World Cup games in about 13 months.

The three finalists all have deep ties to Kansas City and have spent much of their careers working for the city.

Kimiko Gilmore is currently serving as the interim City Manager. Before that, she was Deputy City Manager and Executive Director of Convention Entertainment Facilities.

“When I accepted the interim role, I made a commitment to do two things right away,” Gilmore said in her interview. “First, to keep the city running smoothly through transition, and second, to stay focused on the long game -- building trust, delivering on the council’s vision for a safe, more equitable, more vibrant Kansas City.”

“What drives me every day is simple, but powerful belief,” said Gilmore. “Government should make people’s lives better. And when done right, it can.”

Another finalist, Mario Vasquez, has been with the city for 28 years, working his way up to assistant city manager.

“We need to be transparent, and honest and trustworthy,” said Vasquez. “Trust is a big element of being in a leadership role. Without trust, you have difficulty moving forward.”

Vasquez told the mayor and council members that he wants to build partnerships with them, community leaders and developers in working on city projects.

“Together, I think we can do much more for our city,” said Vasquez.

The third finalist, Patrick Klein, worked for the city for 25 years before retiring as aviation director two years ago.

Klein told the panel, “No, I’m not bored,” in retirement. But wanted to offer city leaders an option of another candidate with a different skill set than the other two.

“If I’m selected for the City Manager, I will lead with authenticity, collaboration, accountability, transparency and problem solving,” said Klein. “This is not an ego job for me. (It’s) giving back to the city that has give me unbelievable amounts through my 25 years.”

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