Springfield Standard

Springfield City Manager Jason Gage has announced his resignation, effective January 11, 2025. Gage, who has served the city for six years, guided Springfield through significant challenges including a global pandemic and major capital improvement projects.

During his tenure, Springfield maintained a strong financial position despite economic pressures faced by many cities post-pandemic. The city preserved its AA1 bond rating from Moody’s Investor Services Inc., and experienced a 30% reduction in crime since 2020. The poverty rate also decreased from 24.8% in 2018 to 20.3% in 2022.

Mayor Ken McClure praised Gage's leadership, stating, “Jason has been a steady and patient leader.” He credited Gage with contributing to Springfield's economic growth which outpaced both Missouri and the United States in job growth, income growth, real GDP, and reduced unemployment.

Gage cited the upcoming changes in city leadership as part of his decision to step down. “With a new Council may come shifted community priorities,” he said. He emphasized the importance of recognizing when it is time to embrace new challenges.

Gage introduced Lean process improvements within several departments and aimed to extend these efficiency measures across all city functions. He expressed pride in the dedication of city employees towards service improvement and community engagement.

Significant achievements during Gage’s term include enhancing Springfield’s retail landscape with additions like Costco and Buc-ee’s, securing over $43 million from the Missouri General Assembly for local projects, implementing the Forward SGF Comprehensive Plan, and securing a long-term future for the Springfield Cardinals baseball team.

Gage expressed gratitude towards Springfield citizens for their support on various initiatives such as tax ballot renewals and community projects like Grant Avenue Parkway.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to lead this high-performing organization,” Gage stated. Mayor McClure and City Council are now working on selecting an interim City Manager while recruiting a permanent replacement.