Contents

6 Public Works Department

8 Police and Courts

12 Mission Parks & Recreation

20 Community Development

24 Bulletin Board

26 City Administratiion

30 Boards and Commissions

35 Mayor and Council

41 Member Search

Welcome to the City of Mission’s 75th Anniversary Yearbook Edition!

It is my pleasure to welcome you to 2026 and this special yearbook-style edition of the Mission Magazine as we begin celebrating the City's 75th Anniversary. This July 2 will mark 75 years since our incorporation in 1951, a milestone that invites us to reflect upon our proud history while celebrating the people and programs that shape our community today.

This first issue of our anniversary year highlights what we’re calling the “Class of 2026.” It features the dedicated staff, leaders, and volunteers who serve our community every day. Just like a school yearbook captures a moment in time, this edition offers a snapshot of the committed team and successful programs that keep Mission moving forward.

In Public Works, you’ll discover the people who maintain the infrastructure we rely on each and every day: our streets, stormwater systems, and public facilities. Their dedication ensures that Mission remains safe, functional, resilient, and prepared for the future.

Our Police Department and Municipal Court are recognized for their commitment to public safety and justice. Their service, professionalism, and community partnerships play a critical role in maintaining the high quality of life our residents expect and deserve.

This issue also shines a spotlight on Parks + Recreation, whose programs and spaces bring neighbors together. From special events and youth activities to maintaining our beautiful parks and trails, they help create the vibrant community spirit that makes Mission feel like home.

You’ll learn about our Community Development Department, recognized for its vital role in shaping Mission’s future. Through thoughtful planning, economic development efforts, neighborhood services, and code enforcement this team works to preserve the character of our community while encouraging smart, sustainable growth.

The feature on Administration spotlights the professionals who ensure the City operates smoothly and responsibly. From financial stewardship and communications to human resources and strategic planning, their behind-the-scenes work provides the strong foundation that allows every other department to succeed.

There’s a “shout-out” to the volunteers who dedicated countless hours to serve on Mission’s Boards and Commissions. And, finally, you’ll meet your Governing Body. The elected officials who guide our policy decisions and represent your voice in local government.

Whether elected, appointed or hired, the time, expertise, and passion of the people featured in this issue are invaluable to our City’s success.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, I hope you feel a sense of pride in what we have built together over the past 75 years. While much has changed since 1951, our commitment to community, service, and progress remains constant.

Thank you for being part of Mission’s story. Here’s to celebrating our past, honoring our present, and building an even brighter future together.

-Sollie Flora, Mayor

Public Works: Most likely to come early and stay late

They may not always be seen, but their work touches every resident, neighborhood, and season. Mission works because Public Works did.

2025 STATS

575 Storm Drains Cleaned

421 Tons of Asphalt Spread

570 Miles of Streets Swept

424 Service Calls

If you’ve driven down a smooth street, seen stormwater disappear after a downpour, or woke to plowed roads after a snowstorm, you’ve met the Mission Public Works Department. This small but mighty team keeps Mission moving year-round, quietly tackling some of the City’s toughest challenges.

What’s remarkable is how much this team handles: streets, stormwater, snow and ice removal, sidewalks, inspections, brush pickup, street sweeping, and long-term planning. Expectations are high, but Public Works meets them with dedication, professionalism, and pride.

While you see them most often out in the field, Public Works also oversees permits and inspections for work in public right-of-ways, making sure every project meets City standards. They plan for the long term, evaluating pavement conditions, developing capital improvement plans, and coordinating major infrastructure upgrades throughout Mission.

Their work isn’t flashy. There are no ribbon cuttings for a patched pothole or a functioning storm drain, but the impact is everywhere.

Every safe commute, every cleared intersection, every dry street after a storm is a quiet testament to their efforts.

“Most people don’t

know we have an in-house sign

shop. We design, fabricate and install

most of the regulatory signs you see

every day.” - Ryan F.

"We want residents to

know we are dedicated to the City and we take our job
seriously.” - Chad O.

Police & Municipal Court

29 Sworn Officers

4 Civilians

15,274 Calls for Service

187 Investigation Cases

Community Presence

Mission’s police

Department is more than flashing lights and patrol cars. If you look a little closer, you’ll find a coordinated team built on preparation, professionalism, and a daily commitment to keeping our community safe.

In Patrol, officers work 12-hour shifts, covering neighborhoods and business corridors, responding to emergencies, directing traffic, calming tense situations, and offering reassurance.

Detectives in Investigations follow up on reports, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and collaborate with partner agencies to resolve cases. Their work supports victims, ensures accountability, and helps prevent future incidents.

The Support Division is proof that not everything the Department does involves sirens. They manage records, maintain equipment, keep tabs on evidence, provide animal control services and handle fingerprinting and car seat installations. Though Mission is home to just over 10,000 residents, major highways and busy commercial areas mean the daily workload often feels much larger. But officers still make time to show up at at City events, holiday celebrations, and neighborhood gatherings, building connections that strengthen trust.

“ Most Likely to Know Everyone’s Name - and Their Case Number”

mission municipal court

While the Police Department handles the front lines, Mission’s Municipal Court ensures cases move forward with fairness, efficiency, and accountability.

The Court focuses on resolution, compliance, and upholding due process. Partnering with the Police Department, it completes the circle of public safety by balancing accountability with opportunity for correction.

Courtrooms may lack flashing lights, but they provide steady leadership, careful oversight, and fairness. Day after day, case by case, the Mission Municipal Court keeps the scales balanced, reinforces community standards, and helps residents move forward. In Mission, justice is organized, thoughtful, and resolved.

2025

4,003 New cases

2,550 Cases closed

8 Dockets/month

400+ Defendants/month

PARKS & RECREATION: Most likely to be the city's cheerleader

The Mission, Parks & Recreation team knows how to get the City off the sidelines and into the action. Their work brings three times the fun through programming and events in outdoor parks, the Powell Community Center, and the Mission Family Aquatic Center.

Most likely the Coolest Place in Town

Mission Family Aquatic Center

Most likely to echo with laughter all day long

Outdoor Parks

Most likely to keep everyone moving

Powell Community Center

The Powell Community Center hums with energy every day. Fitness enthusiasts enjoy cardio machines, strength equipment, and group classes from yoga to high-intensity training. Gyms host youth basketball and adult volleyball, while indoor pools serve swimmers of all ages. Beyond fitness, enrichment programs, art classes, and the 10-week summer camp program make the center a hub where generations intersect, from preschoolers to seniors.

Summer brings the Mission Family Aquatic Center to life. Kids race toward slides and interactive water features while instructors teach swimming and water safety. Special events like the Under the Sea Pool Party and seasonal swim camps make every visit memorable.

“Safety is our priority, but

aquatics is also about fun and connection. From swim lessons and lap swim to MFAC events, we create spaces where families can build confidence, enjoy the

water, and feel part of something

bigger. That’s rewarding.”

- Jenna Dickman,

Aquatics Facility Manager

The 10-week summer camp program blends outdoor play, swimming, creative projects, and themed activities into 10 weeks packed with fun. Kids build friendships, discover new interests, and create lasting memories, all in the heart of Mission.

“Our special events reflect the heart of Mission—welcoming, family-focused, and full of energy. Watching our parks come alive with laughter and connection is what makes this work so meaningful.”

- Jenny Smith, Recreation Program Supervisor

Mission’s parks are more than green spaces, they are neighborhood anchors. Playgrounds echo with laughter, walking trails support joggers and strollers, and shelters host birthdays, reunions, and community meetups. Seasonal events bring extra sparkle: the Bunny Eggstravaganza welcomes spring, the Spooky Walk invites families to wander through decorated trails, and Holiday Lights and Festive Sights transforms winter evenings into glowing celebrations.

With 11 full-time staff and more than 100 part-time team members, Mission Parks & Recreation is energetic, inclusive, and welcoming. From parks to pools, fitness rooms to seasonal events, everything is designed to bring people together, spark joy, and strengthen community.

2025 Highlights

1,500+

campers

18,000+

pool splashes

200,000

trail laps

850+

holiday lights guests

“Each Arbor Day reminds us that the trees we plant today improve the health, beauty, and resilience of our City for generations to come. We all have a hand in strengthening and diversifying

Mission's tree canopy.”

- Penn Almoney, Parks + Recreation Director

Rooted in Pride

24 Years as a Tree City USA

For 24 consecutive years, Mission has proudly earned
recognition as a Tree City USA community through the Arbor Day Foundation. This national designation honors cities that demonstrate a strong commitment to urban forestry and environmental stewardship. Mission’s sustained recognition reflects the City’s long-term investment in maintaining

a healthy, vibrant tree canopy across its

parks,neighborhoods, and
public spaces.

Community Development: Best at building a better tomorrow

Community Development is more than the “permits and paperwork” department. This team quietly shapes how the City grows, functions, and feels - often behind the scenes - but with results that show up in everyday life.

A large part of the work is long-range planning: guiding development so it aligns with Mission’s vision, protects neighborhood character, and strengthens the local economy. It’s a balancing act that involves listening, analyzing, and weighing priorities to ensure growth happens thoughtfully.

But this Department is also deeply “hands-on.” Permit reviews, plan checks, and inspections help move projects smoothly from application to Certificate of Occupancy. Much of the work happens before construction begins, preventing problems early and keeping projects on track.

Community Development also partners with residents and businesses on property maintenance and code compliance. The focus is on education, mediation, and practical solutions that protect property values and neighborhood stability.

These efforts are supported through grant and outreach programs, including property tax and franchise fee rebates, neighborhood and business improvement grants, and Mission Possible, which assists with minor home repairs, exterior improvements, accessibility updates, and property cleanup.

The Department also focuses on how people move through Mission. Using a bike and pedestrian plan and trail corridor studies, the public has been engaged in making these amenities safe and appealing.

Ask anyone on the team what makes the work worthwhile, and the answer is consistent: the people. Coworkers, residents, and a shared sense of purpose (plus coffee and a little laughter) make the busiest days manageable.

Community Development may work quietly, but its impact is visible everywhere: in safer buildings, stronger neighborhoods, better streets, and a Mission that grows with intention.

“Walkability and
bikeability are important
quality of life factors that residents care deeply about,” and now we have a plan that lays out criteria and action steps to support that.”

- Brian Scott,
Deputy City
Administrator

Community Development Numbers 2025

315

Residential

Building Permits

53

Commercial Building Permits

$19

Total

building permit valuation

593

Total code

enforcement

notices issued

85%

Code Cases

Voluntarily

Complying

$80,000

Grant & Assistance Funds allocated

Did you know?

The Community Development Department is also responsible for issuing and monitoring licenses issued for backyard chickens and bees in Mission. There are currently 13 active backyard chicken licenses and 1 active bee license.

“Many people are surprised to learn how much of my job is about problem-solving, mediation, and education rather than enforcement. Most situations start with conversations, guidance, and working together to find practical solutions.” - David Binckley, Neighborhood Services Officer

City Administration: Behind the Scenes

Every great film has unforgettable moments. The big scenes that stay with you long after the credits roll.

In Mission, those scenes might look like crowds at the Mission Market on a summer evening. A new business opening its doors. A City Council meeting where important decisions are made. A balanced budget that supports parks, police, public works, and other resident priorities.

Behind every scene is direction, coordination, and careful planning. And that’s where the City’s Administration Department steps in. Residents may not always recognize the faces of this team, but they bring together the cast, align the vision, manage the details, and make sure each scene unfolds the way it should.

Most residents don’t see the rehearsals, the edits, or the long planning meetings. They only experience the finished scene a thriving event, a well-run meeting, a responsive city service.

City Administration works behind the scenes so the spotlight can shine on the community. And when Mission comes together, whether in the council chambers, at a neighborhood event, or around a new opportunity, that’s when the story truly comes to life.

“Mission has an amazing small-town energy where people show up for each other. Helping create those moments is the best part of my job.”
~ Leigh Ann Zerr,
Special Projects Coordinator

“Administration isn’t about the spotlight. It’s about stewardship. Our job is to listen first, act with transparency, and make decisions that strengthen trust. Every budget, every policy, and every plan is shaped by the people we serve.”

~ Laura Smith, City Administrator

And the Award goes to...

The Big Picture Award

City Administrator

Most Likely to Turn Plans Into Action

Deputy City Administrator

Most Likely to Have the Answer

City Clerk

Team Champion

Human Resources Specialist

Most Likely to Make Every Dollar Count

Budget & Finance Manager and Accountant

Mission Rain or Shine Award

Mission Market & Special Projects Coordinator

“A lot of what we do is behind the scenes, but it all adds up to moments where the community comes together.”
~ Robyn Fulks, City Clerk

Boards & Commissions

Every great community has its MVPs, the quiet leaders, big thinkers, and neighbors who raise their hands and say, “I care about this place.” In Mission, many of those MVPs serve on Mission’s Boards and Commissions.

These volunteer advisory groups are where ideas turn into action. It’s local government at its most neighborly. Residents helping shape the future of the city they call home.

Planning Commission
Helping Mission Grow With Intention

Big changes start with big conversations. The Planning Commission reviews development plans, rezonings, special use permits, and other zoning decisions that shape Mission’s landscape. Members listen to public input and weigh neighborhood character, City ordinances, and the interests of residents and property owners.

Parks, Recreation + Tree Commission
Caring for the Places Where Mission Gathers

From playground laughter and summer picnics to fitness classes and special events, Mission’s parks and recreation spaces are where memories are made. The Parks, Recreation + Tree Commission helps guide the upkeep, enhancement, and development of these quality-of-life amenities.

Members also support Mission’s urban tree canopy, helping maintain the City’s proud designation as a Tree City USA, a title the City’s held since 2002.

Sustainability Commission
Planning for a Resilient Future

If you’ve ever wondered who’s thinking about Mission 10, 20, or even 50 years from now, it’s the Sustainability Commission. Members promote sustainable development and best practices across City operations, championing policies that support environmental responsibility and long-term resilience. Their initiatives are largely public facing like the GoGreen Environmental Fair, battery recycling, water bottle filling stations and recognition of private development projects that achieve higher sustainability standards.

“Seeing the positive changes and improvements over the years has kept me engaged.”
- Robin Dukelow,

Planning Commissioner

What Are

Boards + Commissions?

Boards and commissions are made up primarily of Mission residents who:

• Review plans and proposals

• Hold public hearings

• Make recommondations to

City Council

• Support transparent, community
-driven decision-making

“We’re trusted advisors…

helping create both short-

and long-term plans that

support the City’s natural

beauty. ”
- Chris Schlenker,

Parks, Recreation

+ Commissioner

What Makes a Good

Commission Member?

Commission members consistently say that service is less about titles and more about preparation, perspective, and commitment to the community. What matters most is curiosity, community pride, and a willingness to show up and speak up.

What You Don’t Need:

• Formal credentials • Specialized expertise

• Government experience

What Matters Most:

• Dedication to the community

• Willingness to contribute and learn

• Shared values and care for Mission’s future

“We’re working toward making Mission one of the most earth-friendly cities in Johnson County,” - Terri Baugh, Sustainability Commissioner

MOMENTS that MATTER

Mostly Likely to Be Found Hugging Trees

Parks, Recreation + Tree Commission

Across the City’s boards and commissions, members point to moments, both big and small, that make their work meaningful. While much of the work happens behind the scenes, its impact shows up in everyday places across the City.

“Serving on this commission means caring for Mission’s green spaces today while helping
ensure they remain healthy and accessible for the future.”
- Jacque Gameson, Parks,
Recreation + Tree Commissioner

“Mission has a reputation of supporting sustainable polices and programs and we have the opportunity to continue these long-standing best practices.”
- Cathy Boyer-Sheshol,

Sustainability Commissioner

Most Thoughtful Decision Making Planning Commission

Each commission’s work continues to look toward the future, anticipating growth, sustainability needs, and opportunities to strengthen Mission for the next generation. We invite you to join us!

“Our decisions affect people's
livelihood, their finances, their

neighborhood, and perhaps their future in Mission. It’s detailed,
meaningful work that directly
influences how the City evolves.”

- Aaron Wingert, Planning Commissioner

Mayor & Council

Think of student council but with fewer lockers and WAY more agendas. At the head of the class is the Mayor, elected at-large, setting the tone, calling meetings to order, and occasionally reminding everyone to stay on topic. Joining the Mayor are eight Councilmembers, representing the City’s four Wards and each bringing their own perspectives, priorities, and personalities to the table.

Together, this team tackles the big questions and the small details, everything from long-range planning and budgets to the everyday decisions that shape life in Mission. They debate, collaborate, and occasionally agree to disagree, all with the shared goal of moving Mission forward.

But everyone knows it’s not just about titles; it’s about the people behind them. These “spotlight profiles” give you a chance to get to know the Mayor and Councilmembers beyond the dais. Think favorite Mission hangouts, proud moments, and the “why” behind the work.

Different styles, shared responsibility, and stories worth telling. Mission’s City Council, "Class of Now", is proudly serving the hometown they call their own.

MISSION CITY HALL

6090 Woodson | Mission, KS 66202

Open Monday through Friday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

P 913. 676. 8350

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Community Development,

Finance and Administration

First Wednesday every month 6:30 p.m.

(overflow business considered on the second Wednesday of the month as necessary).

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Third Wednesday every month 7 p.m.

COUNCIL WORK SESSIONS

Fourth Wednesday every month 7 p.m.

All meetings are open to the public.

Visit the calendar at www.missionks.org for a complete listing of meetings.

GOVERNING BODY

MAYOR

Sollie Flora 913.676.8351

WARD I COUNCIL MEMBERS

Wanda Vaughn 913.676.8350

Josepha Haden Chomphosy 913.676.8350

WARD II COUNCIL MEMBERS

Mary Ryherd 913.276.0565

Sam Komosa 913.676.8350

WARD III COUNCIL MEMBERS

Debbie Kring 913.722.6901

Brian Schmid 913.909.9041

WARD IV COUNCIL MEMBERS

Cheryl Carpenter-Davis 816.807.0605

Ben Chociej 816.332.7985

sollie

Flora

• Favorite Mission hangout spot?

If it's chilly out, inside at Urban Prairie

or The Book Club. If it's a nice day, on

the patio at Sandhills or Rockcreek.

• What keeps you motivated?

The appreciation of our Mission

residents.

• One word to describe your

leadership style?

Knope (Shout out to all the other

Parks & Recreation Fans)

• Favorite season in Mission?

Fall

• What makes you feel proudest

to serve the community?

Our no-drama approach to making

continued forward progress for

Mission - streets, parks and sense

of community.

josepha haden chomphosy - Ward I

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? Rockcreek Brewing Company

• What keeps you motivated? Seeing how happy our residents are

in the parks and at our city-wide events.

• One word to describe your leadership style? Transformational

• Favorite season in Mission? Summer

• What makes you feel proudest to serve the community?

When I'm able to quickly answer questions (or solve problems!)

for our residents

wanda vaughn - Ward I

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? TurnStyles Thrift Store.

• What keeps you motivated?

I remind myself of the finite nature of everything.

• One word to describe your leadership style? Participative

• Favorite season in Mission?

Spring. Love the budding plants and cool temps.

• What makes you feel proudest to serve the community?

Ability to learn from this experience.

mary ryherd - ward II

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? I will never

say no to a "hang" and a plate of The Peanut's

wings. Ever.

• What keeps you motivated? The reminder

that the work we’re doing today shapes the

community our children will inherit tomorrow.

I want my daughter, and every future

generation, to grow up in a city that feels

connected, supported, and full of opportunity.

• One word to describe your leadership style?

Empathetic

• Favorite season in Mission? Spring!

The mature trees in Mission in bloom

cannot be beat.

• What makes you feel proudest to serve
the community?

I feel proudest to serve on the council because

of the people I serve alongside. We can

have tough, honest discussions, and still treat

one another with respect.

sam komosa - ward ii

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? The Peanut.

Get the BLT or the wings. If you know, you know.

• What keeps you motivated?

I try to keep track (visually with to-do lists)

of the progress we are making.

• One word to describe your leadership style?

Levity. When appropriate, I enjoy lightening the

mood during otherwise serious matters.

• Favorite season in Mission?

Spring! The walks are great.

• What makes you feel proudest to serve

the community? Although I'm still new, I’ve

been proud to help residents get questions

answered and to get them connected with

the right people at City Hall.

debbie kRing - Ward Iii

• Favorite Mission hangout spot?

Citywide special events like the Summer Family Picnic.

• What keeps you motivated? Knowing how much I love this city,

and my constituents trusting my judgment.

• One word to describe your leadership style? Pacesetting

• Favorite season in Mission? Summer

• What makes you feel proudest to serve the community?

Representing our great city in local, regional, and national forums/settings.

brian schmid - ward iiI

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? I’ve been a

mug club member at Sandhills, since it was first

offered and hang out there as often as I can.

• What keeps you motivated? Problem

solving - it’s a good feeling to end the day

knowing I won’t have to deal with the same

problem the next day.

• One word to describe your leadership style?

Listener

• Favorite season in Mission? Mission’s got a

great tree canopy, so of course fall is amazing.

• What makes you feel proudest to serve the

community? I feel proudest about our work

when I see the people - singles, couples,

families, kids - walking out and about on

Johnson Drive. I know it’s because we’ve

focused on creating a place where people want

to be.

ben chociej - Ward IV

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? Sitting outside a

local coffee shop or brewery on Johnson Drive.

• What keeps you motivated? With work,

patience, and luck, I know Mission's future holds

some great things, and I'm glad to help build a

community my kids and their kids can love.

• One word to describe your leadership style?

Provident

• Favorite season in Mission? Spring. It's full of

optimism and new energy, and that fits Mission well.

• What makes you feel proudest to serve the

community? Seeing Mission choose progress,

watching it come to life in the everyday moments

around town, and hearing residents tell me to keep

speaking up.

cheryl carpenter davis - ward iV

• Favorite Mission hangout spot? The Book Club

• What keeps you motivated? Seeing the positive in people and

celebrating small accomplishments.

• One word to describe your leadership style? Collaborative listener

• Favorite season in Mission? Spring and the Mission Market!!!

• What makes you feel proudest to serve the community?

Our citizens, city employees, and council members.

We truly care about people!