City of Independence Deputy City Manager to exit, City Manager’s Office to restructure

City of Independence Deputy City Manager Adam Norris has accepted employment as an Assistant County Manager with Johnson County, Kansas. His last day with Independence is Friday, January 5. 

“Adam Norris has served Independence well over the past five years and he will be missed,” City Manager Zach Walker said.

As a result of Norris’s departure, the City has taken the opportunity to restructure the City Manager’s Office. “Whenever a member of our staff moves on, it gives us an opportunity to look at their role and see how it could be restructured to better serve the City and fellow staff members. After careful consideration and thoughtful evaluation, I believe a new model is warranted.”

Under the new model, the responsibilities previously maintained under the Deputy City Manager role will now be maintained under two separate functions: Internal Operations and Community Services.

Jaime Rehmsmeyer will serve as Interim Assistant City Manager for Internal Operations. Rehmsmeyer, who is currently the Director of Human Resources for the City of Independence, will continue to oversee Human Resources as well as provide oversight for the departments of Finance, Technology Services, Communications and the City Clerk’s office.

Lisa Reynolds will serve as the Interim Assistant City Manager for Community Services. Reynolds, who is currently the Director of Municipal Services for the City of Independence, will continue to oversee the Municipal Services department along with Independence Power & Light, Parks, Recreation & Tourism and Community Development.

“Jaime and Lisa are highly respected leaders within our organization. I’m confident they will provide excellent service and steady leadership as we continue addressing the City Council’s Action Plan.”

Samantha Morris will serve permanently as the Chief of Emergency Operations. Morris will oversee the Emergency Preparedness, Health and Animal Services and the City’s Municipal Court.

“Samantha has proven herself to be a reliable and dependable member of the City’s senior leadership team. I look forward to working with her in this new capacity and providing leadership to some of our most critical functions.”

In addition to the restructuring of the Deputy City Manager’s role, the City Communications Division is also being restructured. For all City Communications needs, please reach out to Riley Newton (rnewton@indepmo.org).