Kay Barnes sworn in as Temporary Jackson County Executive
Published on October 08, 2025
Kay Barnes was sworn in today as temporary Jackson County Executive following the departure of County Executive Frank White, Jr.
As the temporary Jackson County Executive, she will serve for a maximum of 30 days or until an Interim County Executive is selected by the county legislature.
“This is quite an honor for me to assume this position, even though it is for a relatively brief period of time,” Barnes said. “I certainly look forward for whatever the next few days or perhaps a couple of weeks will provide.”
“I think it is important that whatever my role might be as short as it is, that I fulfill the responsibilities of the county executive. It is a very important position.”
When asked about what sort of impact she could have in the temporary position Barnes said, “I hope that in a way I can be a resource for whomever whether it’s the department heads or members of the legislature or whomever to be at least a good listener and to perhaps share some of my experiences in my political leadership.”
“In terms of the complex issues the county is facing I certainly do not see myself taking on any kind of strong initiative on any of those. I’m certainly willing to be part of the discussions. I want to be part of the team for as long as I am here,” she said.
Barnes was the first female mayor of Kansas City. In her two terms as mayor, she is credited for her work in improving downtown Kansas City and beginning the revitalization of the urban core. She is also credited with the Sprint Center arena that opened in 2007.
Following her service as mayor she served as Senior Director for University Engagement at Park University.
Barnes is a former Jackson County Legislator representing the 3rd District and was a Kansas City Councilwoman representing the 4th District-at-large.
She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education from the University of Kansas, her master’s degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and her Master of Public Administration, Organization Behavior from UMKC.