Zachary Walker: Biography
Zachary Walker completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and a Masters Degree in Public Administration, both from the University of Missouri. He began his career working as a legislative assistant in the Missouri House of Representatives and a regional planner at the Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission before transitioning to local government administration. Since that time, he served 4 years in the City of Kansas City, Missouri, including roles in the Office of Management and Budget as well as the Capital Projects Department. From there, he served the last four years as the Management Analyst for the City of Independence, a role he held until his appointment as Assistant City Manager for the City of Independence in October 2015. Zach was appointed to the position of City Manager on October 1st, 2016.
Meg Lewis: Biography
Meg Lewis completed a Bachelor of Journalism and a Master of Arts with an emphasis in Journalism from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Before joining the City of Independence, Meg served as Director of Communications for Missouri State Treasurer Clint Zweifel in Jefferson City. In that capacity she managed all strategic communications for the office and served as the office liaison for MOST—Missouri’s 529 College Savings Program. Zweifel promoted Lewis to the director position after she previously served as a communications coordinator in the treasurer’s office. Prior to that, she worked on the communications team for the Missouri Secretary of State’s office.
The Office of the City Manager
The City of Independence, which was incorporated in 1849, adopted a Charter in December 1961 establishing the Council-Manager form of government. Under the Council-Manager Plan, the City Council is the policy making body, elected by the citizens of Independence.
The City Manager is appointed by the Council and is responsible for implementing and carrying out the policies of the Council. As the chief administrative officer of the City, the City Manager exercises direction over all municipal operations; appointing department directors, overseeing the enforcement of all City laws and ordinances, and managing the City's affairs.
In addition, the City Manager's office provides support to the Mayor and City Council, City boards, commissions and committees; all other City departments; and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the City.
The City Manager’s office also oversees special projects, negotiates contracts and work agreements on behalf of the City, and works closely with economic development organizations. Other responsibilities include:
- Direct the development of the City's Operating and Capital Budget
- City Communications and Public Relations (CityScene, educational issue information, and various other publications)
- Responding to citizen requests for information