Brown Ends 17-Year Tenure as McPherson Mayor

MCPHERSON, Kan. — Mayor Thomas Brown concluded his 17-year tenure leading McPherson city government Tuesday, capping his final commission meeting with a call to preserve the city's historic Lakeside Park bandshell before passing the gavel to newly sworn Mayor Jim Loving. Brown, who was honored at a ceremony last week attended by approximately 300 residents, used his parting remarks to rally support for the $500,000 restoration project, urging donors to contact fundraising coordinators Wayne Burns and Gary Mel with a goal of securing commitments by Easter.

Brown, visibly moved by the outpouring of community support that included some 50 letters and emails following last week's recognition ceremony, credited the city's accomplishments during his tenure to teamwork among staff, commissioners and citizens. "Everything that was accomplished is accomplished because of the team," Brown told commissioners, noting that even residents who disagreed with some of his decisions over the years had offered appreciative words. The bandshell, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, represents unfinished business Brown hopes the community will complete.

The transition ceremony concluded with an official send-off as Police Chief Golden and Fire Chief Mayberry led a joint color guard honoring the outgoing mayor's service. City Clerk Leah Kawanguzi then administered the oath of office to Loving, a McPherson business leader, who immediately called his first meeting to order and moved through routine city business including approval of tourism grants and fire department equipment purchases.

Brought to you by

Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below: