Published on July 18, 2023
With extensive knowledge and experience in municipal government and managing Public Works departments,Celia Kumke is the City of Merriam’s new Public Works director. Merriam City Councilmembers approved her hiring at the June 12 City Council meeting.
Kumke said Merriam has a reputation for providing quality service to residents. She wants to continue the trend.
“Merriam has a reputation for providing well-maintained infrastructure and great customer service to residents,” Kumke said. “My goals include leadership of a highly efficient and well-organized department that provides quality, cost-efficient services that are on time and within budget. I look forward to being part of Team Merriam!”
Before coming to Merriam, she most recently worked as the public works director for the City of Mission. She also served as the public works director for the City of Belton, Missouri, and as the city engineer and deputy director for the City of Olathe and city engineer for the City of Gardner. Kumke received a degree in civil engineering from the University of Kansas and is a licensed professional engineer.
Kumke officially joined Team Merriam on July 17.