Gress served Willard, a rapidly growing community just north of Springfield, from 2005-07 where he was over a variety of departments within the city including Water, Streets, Sewer, Planning and Development, Emergency Management and Grant Writing.

His diverse background in City Administration and knowledge of southeast Kansas makes him well-suited for the position of Parsons City Manager. Prior to becoming City Administrator in Willard, Gress served as the Director of Finance in both Fort Scott and Independence. In the early 80s, he served as Independence City Clerk, as well.

"As a city manager he's been successful working with other entities, being inclusive beyond city government, to help assure the overall good of the people of the community," Mayor Tom Shaw said. 

In addition to his administrative experience, Gress served as a planner for the State of Nebraska where he worked with several cities and counties to help develop comprehensive plans.

"I have always been a believer of hard work and education. I like to see the end results pay off," Gress said, who will officially begin duties as City Manager on Tuesday.

No stranger to southeast Kansas, Gress is a native of Independence. He graduated from Independence High School, attended Independence Junior College, and earned a bachelor's degree in Political Science from Fort Hays State College. He went on to Kansas State University where he earned his M.R.C.P.

In addition to his diverse municipal experience, Gress owned and operated Artic Ice & Water Company in Independence for many years.

In 2006, completed FEMA National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) Certification and was recognized as a Certified Flood Plain Manager.

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