In the City of Parkville, two seats on the board of aldermen are contested. In Ward Two, Brian Whitley faces Lovell Holloway, who did not respond to the Citizen’s election questionnaire. In Ward Four, three candidates are running for one seat, with only one candidate – Abby LacKamp – responding to the Citizen’s questionnaire. Also on the ballot are Evan Maxon and Wendy Murphy.
WHITLEY
Brian Whitley, 49, is originally from Virginia Beach, Va. Married, he has one child in middle school. He holds degrees in biology, microbiology, cellular biology and a master’s degree in public health. He has served as a Lee’s Summit council member and is the incumbent on the Parkville Board of Aldermen for the past eight years.
“I have 22 years of public service on matters such as redistricting, economic development, public works, legislative affairs, city charter, airport, bond projects, main street, finance and budget,” he said. “I work well with others on the board to accomplish common goals for the betterment of the community.”
He said he believes he has the right combination of experience and temperament to serve as an alderman representing the interests of the community.
“I genuinely enjoy connecting people to resources and providing people the tools to self-advocate on important issues,” he said.
Whitley provided several bullet points for his questionnaire responses and directed voters to his website at whitley2025.com.
There are always new challenges for any city, including Parkville,” he said, stating he is running to further public safety, public works, and accountability and transparency.
With respect to public safety, I want to accomplish the following:
Ensure above market compensation to patrol officers to recruit/retain talent.
Continue maximum LAGERS retirement to retain talent.
New police fleet (in progress with lease program).
New substation in west Parkville to reduce response times for emergencies.
e-ticketing to enhance officer safety and improve accuracy.
Flock to deter crime and rapidly identify suspects.
Enhanced technology in patrol cars.
With respect to public works, I want to accomplish the following:
Newer technology like bonded ultrathin overlays to extend pavement life.
Digitally map the condition of all street conditions and posting those on the city website.
Digitally map the condition of all sidewalks and posting those on the city website.
Working with downtown merchants to resolve traffic congestion at the Highway 9 triangle.
Fully fund replacement of cracked curbs.
Improve safety on Bell Road.
With respect to accountability and transparency, I want to accomplish the following:
Maximum transparency of all purchases from paperclips to police cars.
Clean third-party audits help to ensure all proper fiscal controls are in place.
I continue to advocate that all meetings of elected and appointed bodies should be livestreamed.
Review Missouri State Auditor reports of other cities to identify ways Parkville can enhance transparency and operational excellence right here at home.
Develop a city charter to rebalance power in favor of the people of Parkville. Include petition, referendum, and recall provisions to hold elected officials accountable.
LACKAMP
Abby LacKamp, 39, is originally from Smithville but has lived in Parkville for eight years. Married, she has two young children and holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Truman State University. She has spent her entire career in non-profit organizations and currently works for Breakthrough T1D.
“I am running for alderman because I’m deeply committed to preserving and enhancing the quality of life in Parkville as we continue to grow,” she said. “I want to ensure our community remains safe, vibrant, and connected, while addressing the challenges that come with rapid development, such as traffic congestion and safety concerns.”
She said she is qualified for the position due to her 18 years of experience in nonprofit work, where she has successfully managed staff, volunteers, committees and budgets.
“I have a strong understanding of community needs and have shown my commitment to service through my active involvement in the Thousand Oaks HOA and the Parkville Ethics Commission,” she said. “My hands-on experience includes addressing important local issues like safety, traffic, and infrastructure, and I’ve worked alongside local law enforcement, county parks and recreation, and the city to implement solutions. I’ve also demonstrated leadership by organizing community events and advocating for transparent, accountable government, always ensuring that the voices of residents are heard and acted upon.
“With a clear focus on preserving the quality of life in our community, I will work tirelessly to make informed, thoughtful decisions for Parkville’s future. Ward Four is where I shop, where we play, and where I am raising my family. I care deeply about this area, and I’m fully committed to making it the best it can be for all of us.”
Parkville, and specifically Ward Four, is facing several challenges both now and as in the future, she said. One of the most pressing issues is traffic congestion and road safety, particularly at key intersections like the one at Interstate 435 and Highway 45 by Creekside, and through crowded neighborhoods like Thousand Oaks. As the city grows, the strain on infrastructure, especially roads, will only increase, making it crucial to address these traffic issues to keep the community safe and accessible.
Maintaining the balance between growth and preserving quality life is another concern, as is remaining proactive in addressing public safety concerns, from small crimes to larger safety issues. Expansion also brings the need for expanded parks and recreation opportunities and maintaining and improving infrastructure.
If elected, she said she would tackle these issues with a proactive, collaborative approach focused on finding sustainable, community-driven solutions.
“I would prioritize improving traffic flow and safety, particularly at problem intersections like 435 and 45 Hwy by Creekside, and through neighborhoods such as Thousand Oaks,” she said. “I would work closely with city engineers, local law enforcement, and transportation experts to develop and implement practical solutions, including traffic signal adjustments, additional signage, and long-term infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, I’d advocate for exploring alternative transportation options, like improved public transit routes or bike lanes, to help ease congestion.”
She addressed each of her concerns, including managing growth while preserving quality of life and public safety.
“Public safety is a top priority. I’d continue working with local law enforcement and first responders to address crime prevention strategies and improve response times,” LaKamp said. “I’d also support community outreach programs, such as neighborhood watch groups and safety education initiatives, to empower residents to play an active role in keeping our streets safe.”
She said green space must grow along with the community and she would work toward that end while also working to improve roads, sidewalks, trails and other infrastructure.