On March 7, 2023, the Board of Aldermen approved the hiring and announced the appointment of Daniel Harper as the City’s Public Works Director. Mr. Harper was chosen from a pool of qualified applicants who completed the interview process with City leadership and staff.
Mr. Harper brings more than 15 years in local and state government experience. He previously served as Assistant Director of Field Services with the City of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, before accepting the position with Parkville. His career also includes time with the Kansas Department of Transportation, the University of Iowa and the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Mr. Harper received his Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree from the University of Iowa and his Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas. He is a Professional Engineer with a license in Missouri.
As Director, Mr. Harper will lead the Streets division for streets, curbs, sidewalks, storm water and special projects. He also serves as City Lead Engineer and will work with consulting engineers focusing primarily on public works projects, maintenance, inspection and infrastructure rehabilitation.
Alexa Barton, Parkville City Administrator, shared, “An upcoming major project that will showcase Daniel’s expertise will be to oversee the next phase of redesign and construction of the Highway 9 triangle at Main Street. We are so lucky to have a person with Daniel’s caliber of professionalism, education and experience, join our team to see us through the many upcoming projects, like Highway 9, along with our general maintenance.
Mr. Harper’s background in civil engineering and municipal public works put him at the top of a pool of 10 qualified applicants. Mayor Dean Katerndahl shared, “Daniel’s leadership and extensive public works experience impressed the hiring committee. He has a great approach to communication and collaboration and he will be an asset to the City of Parkville team and we look forward to his assistance in continuing our progress.”
Mr. Harper assumed his duties as Public Works Director on March 20.
