Watson beats out Henry to become KCK Mayor & CEO

Watson elected KCK Mayor. 

Blog King, Mass Appeal

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — She did it. On Tuesday, Christal Watson was elected the first female mayor and CEO of the Unified Government of Kansas City, Kansas, and Wyandotte County in 20 years. If you recall, Carol Marinovich was the head woman in charge from 1995 to 2005. Watson is also the first Black female mayor in KCK history. “This is a monumental moment, and the people have spoken,” Watson told reporters. “I’m ready to get to work, and we’re in this together. Everyone has a seat at the table. Everyone.” Watson — who served as deputy chief of staff under quondam Mayor David Alvey — beat out Rose Mulvany Henry by collecting 54 percent of the vote. She’s replacing Mayor Tyrone Garner who, back in November, announced he wasn’t seeking re-election. Watson’s triumph, however, comes on the heels of a contentious property tax increase that has homeowners pissed. But she’s hoping to implement an earnings tax as an offset.

“I want to work on that 1% earnings tax,” Watson said. “That could bring up to $50 million in revenue. That’s the beginning to lowering our taxes.” In addition to lower taxes, other things you can expect from Watson are: budget transparency, support for small businesses, public safety, and affordable housing. “I’m ready to get started and ready to work with the people,” Watson reiterated.

“We’re going to hold ourselves accountable.”

Watson’s previous experience includes being the executive director of the nonprofit Kansas City, Kansas School Foundation for Excellence, CEO of the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce, and serving on the board of the Kansas City, Kansas, Unified School District.

Watson won the election despite raising less money.

Are you excited for her?

Will she make a fine mayor?

Share your thoughts.