Artist Call to Repaint Washington Street Walkway

The City of Kearney is once again looking for artists to create a new public mural at the Washington Street Walkway, located between 113 and 117 East Washington Street. The project aims to transform a 100-inch by 115-inch space into a vibrant landmark, celebrating the heart of the community through creative vision and artistic expression.

The theme for the mural is "Rooted in Community." Artists are encouraged to design works that showcase Kearney’s character, history, and natural beauty. Inspiration may be drawn from local landscapes, Missouri flora, small-town life, community traditions, and the concept of the walkway as a bridge connecting people and places. The city hopes the mural will reflect Kearney’s unique heritage and its promising future.

This initiative offers a paid opportunity, with a stipend of $3,000 for the selected artist, contingent upon funding from the Missouri Arts Council. Additionally, three finalists will each receive $100 to submit a physical sample of their proposed mural. The chosen artist will be responsible for preparing the surface, executing the design, and sealing the mural to ensure its durability against Missouri’s seasonal weather.

Applications are due by May 1, 2026. Artists interested in applying or seeking further information are encouraged to contact Sundi McKinney, Deputy City Clerk, at SMcKinney@kearneymo.us, using the subject line: Washington Walkway Mural Proposal – [Artist Name].

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Spring Bulky Item Pickup

The spring curbside bulky pick up will be collected on resident’s regular trash day during the week of April 20-24.  You can find your pickup day by entering your address into the city’s interactive map HERE. Each household is allowed to place up to 4 yards of bulky trash items at the curb for pickup by 7am on their pickup day.

Accepted Items

• Furniture

• Lawnmowers, which must be empty of any fuel or oil

• Barbeque grills WITHOUT propane tanks

• Carpeting, up to four-foot-long rolls that are securely tied, weighing less than 40lbs. Two rolls count as one item

• Mattresses and box springs

• Wood must be bundled in 4-foot lengths, with each bundle weighing less than 40lbs

• Misc Debris – must be in bags that are no bigger than 39 gallons and weigh no more than 40lbs. 2 bags equal 1 item

Not Accepted Items

• White Goods/Appliances – whether Freon has been drained or not, Missouri Law prohibits white goods/appliances in MO landfills

• Hazardous Waste: flammable, corrosive, explosive, toxic, or radioactive materials, including engine oil, fuel tanks, paint, fluorescent light bulbs, etc

• Automotive batteries

• Tires

• Compressed gas cylinders

• Riding lawnmowers

• Glass panels where any dimension exceeds four feet

• Yard Waste, Brush, or tree limbs

• Rocks, bricks, or concrete

• Latex or oil-based paint

• Fertilizer, pesticide, solvent

• Construction material larger than 4x4, roofing material, loose flooring materials, or railroad ties

• Liquid waste

• Solid waste and recycling materials that are collected as part of regular service

• Any waste or material that is prohibited from being received, managed, or disposed of at a landfill

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Aldermen, Ballot Question Results

Voters went to the polls on Tuesday, April 7, to decide who would serve in elected positions and if the city residents would approve a bond issue to help fund wastewater system improvements. Here are the unofficial results from the Clay County Board of Elections:

Board of Aldermen

Ward 1 Alderman incumbent Ashton King and incumbent Ward 2 Alderman David Lehman ran unopposed and were automatically reelected for those seats on the Board of Aldermen.

Kearney Question (Wastewater System Bond Issue)

Residents also voted how to finance required wastewater system improvements. Wastewater systems are funded by user fees paid by customers who use the system, not taxes.

 A “Yes” vote allows the City to use the lower-interest State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan program. A “No” vote means the City would still complete the work but using traditional financing at a higher cost.

The bond issue question was soundly approved by voters. 82.3% voters were in favor of the measure, while 17.7% of voters said no.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Wheels of Engagement Trailer Strengthens Community Connections

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is set to launch its new Wheels of Engagement trailer, aiming to foster stronger connections throughout the community.

The trailer, once used by the Emergency Management Division for supplies, has been transformed and wrapped with a fresh design by Kansas City North Signarama. Now stocked with yard games, sports equipment, and interactive activities, including games played directly on its exterior, the trailer promises to bring entertainment and opportunities for positive interactions wherever it goes.

Community Services Coordinator Hillary Hidy, who led the project, explained that the trailer enables deputies to meet residents in a fun, approachable setting and encourages non-enforcement interactions that break down barriers and build trust.

This initiative is part of a broader goal by the Community Engagement Unit to reach smaller and more rural communities such as Holt, Missouri City, Mosby, and Avondale, following their free holiday meal distribution in December in partnership with Hy-Vee.

Public Relations Manager Sarah Boyd noted that while the office hosts numerous events in larger population centers, the Wheels of Engagement trailer will help bring festivities directly to residents who may not have access to those gatherings. The trailer will appear at community events, schools, neighborhoods, outreach efforts, and pop-up style events throughout Clay County, with schedules posted on the Sheriff’s Office website.

Coordinator Hidy expressed hope that the initiative will create an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable engaging with deputies, ultimately fostering trust, improving communication, and building lasting relationships across the county.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

After Eight Years, Mayor Pogue Will Not Run for Reelection

Kearney Mayor Randy Pogue has announced he will not seek reelection after serving eight years in office. In a heartfelt statement, Pogue expressed that the decision came after much thought and reflection, describing his time as mayor as one of the greatest honors of his life.

“After a great deal of thought and reflection I have made the decision not to seek another term as mayor of Kearney Missouri, said Pogue. “Serving this community has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life over the course of what will be 8 years in this role.”

Mayor Pogue highlighted achievements including strategic infrastructure investments, responsible growth, expanded parks, strengthened public safety, and building a strong financial foundation for the city. He credited the committed board, dedicated city staff, community partners, and passionate residents for making these accomplishments possible, emphasizing that none of the progress happened alone.

Pogue shared his gratitude for being part of a community that actively participates and strives to do things the right way. Although he will not run for another term, He assured residents that he remains fully committed to finishing his current term with the same dedication and focus.

Mayor Pogue believes that a thoughtful transition in leadership can be positive for Kearney and is excited for the city’s future. On a personal note, Pogue looks forward to spending more time with his family and focusing on his professional career, two priorities that he says deserve more attention in the years ahead.

He concluded by expressing pride in what has been accomplished, optimism for Kearney's continued success, and gratitude to the community for the opportunity to serve as mayor.

“Kearney's future is incredibly bright I'm proud of what we've accomplished together and the work we've done truly has positioned our community for continued success it truly has been an honor and privilege to serve you as your mayor. Thank you for your trust and providing this amazing opportunity for me to serve our community.”

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.