Springfield Standard

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure was honored Tuesday with the Missouri Municipal League’s Distinguished Service Award. The award recognizes a current or former Missouri municipal official who has made significant contributions to the Missouri Municipal League (MML) and the cities of Missouri.

"The selection committee considers enthusiasm and dedication, and outstanding leadership," said Richard Sheets, Director of Missouri Municipal League. "Mayor McClure has an outstanding history of public service and leadership on municipal issues."

Mayor McClure was first elected to office in April 2017 and reelected in 2019, 2021, and 2023. He was initially elected to City Council to serve as General Council Seat D in April 2015 and was later elected as Mayor Pro Tem by his fellow Council members.

"Ken has served our community well, navigating very complex issues, including a global pandemic. This award is well deserved and Springfield is very fortunate to have his steady leadership and thoughtful approach as our Mayor," said Springfield City Manager Jason Gage.

Mayor McClure’s previous experience includes roles such as Chief of Staff and Transition Director for Governor Matt Blunt and Associate General Manager – Administration for City Utilities of Springfield.

He was appointed by Governor John Ashcroft as a member, and later as chairman, of the Missouri Public Service Commission. He is a former Deputy Director – Administration of the Missouri Department of Economic Development, as well as a budget analyst and staff director for the Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee.

He has served on the MML Board of Directors, participating in various committee assignments, including chairing the Finance and Administration Committee. He retired from Missouri State University in July 2015 after serving as Vice President for Administrative and Information Services.

A fifth-generation Springfield resident, Mayor McClure has two grown daughters, two grandsons, and two granddaughters.