Governor Kehoe Delivers State of the State Address

On the anniversary of his inauguration as Missouri’s 58th Governor, Mike Kehoe addressed the Missouri General Assembly with the 2026 State of the State speech, outlining his legislative agenda and budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2027. Kehoe’s address focused on fiscal responsibility, as he proposed a conservative budget aimed at aligning ongoing state spending with reliable revenue sources, moving away from the extraordinary federal funds and increased general revenue that characterized the past few years.

The governor emphasized a return to sustainable, pre-pandemic financial practices, stating, “Today, we delivered a budget recommendation that focuses on the core functions of government and how we can best serve Missourians without overpromising and overspending. Our recommendation proves that state government can live within its means, and our economy can grow and deliver results for taxpayers all at the same time.”

Since Fiscal Year 2022, Missouri has added over 3,400 new budget items, with nearly $13 billion in new general revenue spending. To address a projected future imbalance of more than $2 billion, Kehoe’s plan proposes over $600 million in reductions to the general revenue core operating budget. These cuts, he said, would maintain fiscal discipline while ensuring continued support for mandatory and high-priority obligations such as Medicaid matching, child care subsidies, and disaster relief. Notably, the plan does not reduce core funding for higher education or the K-12 foundation formula.

Governor Kehoe also used his address to advocate for the eventual elimination of Missouri’s individual income tax, calling for a responsible and sustainable approach. He urged lawmakers to pass a joint resolution placing the phased elimination of the income tax before voters on the ballot this year, allowing legislative action in the next session if approved.

Kehoe outlined potential new revenue sources from untaxed modern services and described safeguards in his plan, including triggered reductions to the income tax rate, to protect the state against economic downturns. He assured Missourians that he would not support extending sales taxes to agriculture, healthcare, or real estate, emphasizing the need for a tax code fit for the state’s future.

Looking back on his first year in office, Kehoe highlighted progress in his administration’s four key areas: public safety, economic development, agriculture, and education. He detailed his ongoing commitment to these priorities with both legislative proposals and budget recommendations presented to the General Assembly.

In conjunction with his address, Governor Kehoe signed four executive orders. Executive Order 26-01 creates a statewide school accountability A-F grade card. Executive Order 26-02 affirms the administration’s commitment to safe and effective use of artificial intelligence in state government. Executive Order 26-03 establishes the Missouri Government Responsibility, Efficiency, Accountability, and Transformation initiative, or Missouri GREAT, to improve government efficiency. Executive Order 26-04 forms the Advanced Nuclear Energy Task Force to promote nuclear energy deployment within the state.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Bratcher Completes First Year at Institute for Organization Management

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce that Stacie Bratcher, Executive Director, of the Kearney Chamber of Commerce, has recently completed her first year at Institute for Organization Management, a four-year nonprofit leadership training program at University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ.

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at four different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

Commission Updates Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief

The Clay County Commission has approved an update to the County’s Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief Program on January 8th, 2026.

The update reflects changes to state law and revises how certain property tax levies are treated within the program. As part of the amendment, property tax levies associated with bonded debt obligations will now be included in the Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief Program, expanding relief for eligible seniors.

The update also clarifies that the program does not apply to the State Blind Pension Fund. This clarification does not change how that fund has been treated under the program.

The County will administer the updated program in accordance with applicable laws and County procedures.

Supporting property tax relief for eligible seniors has been a longstanding and ongoing priority of the Clay County Commission.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

HNB National Bank, Kearney Trust Company Announce Merger

HNB National Bank and Kearney Trust Company have announced a definitive merger agreement, marking a significant development in Missouri’s banking sector. John Zimmer, President and CEO of HNB Bancorp, Inc. and HNB National Bank, joined Keith Doss, Chairman of Kearney Trust Company, a subsidiary of Trustco Bankshares, Inc., in revealing that the two institutions have executed an Agreement of Merger and Plan of Reorganization. Under this agreement, Trustco will merge into HNB, and Kearney Trust Company will merge into HNB National Bank.

Keith Doss emphasized that the merger aims to enhance service to the local community. "After thoughtful consideration and with a continued commitment to our customers and community, Kearney Trust Company today announced an agreement to join HNB National Bank, a well-established financial institution with expanded resources and services. This partnership positions our bank to continue its community-focused mission while bringing additional benefits to the people and businesses we serve," Doss stated.

For generations, Kearney Trust Company has built a legacy of supporting local families, farmers, and small businesses with personalized service and local decision-making. Through the partnership with HNB, customers will gain access to a broader suite of financial products and services, including improved digital banking tools, expanded lending options, and enhanced financial planning resources, all while retaining the hometown service they value.

Scott Middleton, President of Kearney Trust Company, noted, "Partnering with HNB allows us to preserve our local relationships and values while providing greater convenience, technology, and most importantly, long-term stability for those who trust us with their financial needs."

Bank officials assured customers and employees that no immediate changes are planned for branch locations or staffing. Day-to-day banking operations will continue as usual, with familiar staff members remaining in place to serve customers’ financial needs.

The merger also underscores a shared dedication to community involvement. Both institutions expressed their commitment to supporting local schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations, with plans to continue investing in their communities. "We are very excited to become part of the HNB family," Middleton said. "This will provide enhanced services and capabilities to our customers and greater opportunities for our staff."

HNB President John Zimmer described the transaction as a tremendous opportunity for both organizations, highlighting their shared history in community banking and commitment to customers, employees, and the communities they serve. "We are excited for the expanded opportunities in the communities served by Kearney," Zimmer said.

Kearney Trust Company, headquartered in Kearney, Missouri, is a Missouri State-Chartered Depository Trust Company with assets totaling approximately $313 million as of September 30, 2025. HNB National Bank, based in Hannibal, Missouri, operates 15 branches throughout Northern Missouri and holds assets of approximately $957 million as of the same date, with locations in communities including St. Joseph, Savannah, Stanberry, Hannibal, Perry, Palmyra, Bowling Green, Louisiana, Monroe City, Wentzville, and Troy.

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2026.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Challenger Soccer Camp Returns for Summer 2026

Following the spring league, the Kearney Parks and Recreation Department (KPR) is again partnering with Challenger Sports to host Soccer Skills Camps, providing a unique international camp experience right in Kearney. The camp will run from June 15 to June 19, 2026, at Jesse James Park, with registration open from January 5 to June 7, 2026.

The Tiny Tykes program introduces young children to soccer through fundamental skills and fun, adventure-themed activities. Influenced by the popular year-round curriculum, Tiny Tykes helps develop coordination, balance, and basic soccer techniques. Participants also receive access to an online library of at-home videos to keep the soccer excitement going after camp ends.

Older players will build on their skills with professional, international coaches leading three-hour sessions each day. The curriculum covers individual technique, small-sided games, and includes World Cup-style competitions. Campers also benefit from a virtual coaching platform to continue their soccer education year-round.

All participants receive a free soccer ball and jersey as part of their camp experience.

Registration for the Challenger Soccer Camp is open now. Families interested in volunteering as coaches or applying for scholarships are encouraged to reach out early to secure their spot and take advantage of available options. For more details or to register, visit the KearneyParks.com website or contact Ryan Marcotte at 816-903-4730.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.