After nearly three years as the head of the public affairs office for the Platte County Commission, Coordinator Kevin Kuzma turned in his resignation to pursue a different sector in his career.
Kuzma, whose resignation was effective May 2, accepted a position with Plattform Advertising in Olathe, Ks.
“I feel like I’ve reached the end of my career trail with the county. I just feel like this position was isolated and had no real direction,” stated Kuzma.
During Kuzma’s time with the county, he provided information to the public, press primarily through news releases distributed to the media. He served as editor and graphic designer for two quarterly newsletters, composed content for the county’s website, and regularly issued news updates, all of which reported on county programs and projects.
“The quality of our communication pieces was raised to levels beyond our expectations during Kevin’s tenure,” said Presiding Commissioner Betty Knight. “The loss of his talents is unfortunate, but we are excited for him.”
Plattform Advertising is the fourth largest advertising agency in the Kansas City area in terms of employee base. The agency produces a variety of promotional media for more than 1,000 universities, colleges and post-secondary schools in the U.S.
Kuzma said his new position was recently created by the advertising firm and will involve coordinating public relations for the company and its various clients. He may also serve as managing editor for a newly acquired trade publication that promotes higher education opportunities for high school and non-traditional students.
“Professionally, this is a really great opportunity for me. I think the biggest thing it symbolizes for me is a move into a whole different career field, which is advertising,” stated Kuzma. “The skills I’ve gained while working for Platte County will bring an immediate impact to what Plattform Advertising does.”
The position of public affairs coordinator, which was created by the county commission of Knight, Michael Short and Diza Eskridge in the mid-90’s, will not be filled.
Second District Commissioner Jim Plunkett explained the decision to not fill the position.
“It’s been well-documented that the county has faced a shortfall of approximately $500,000 in local use tax,” said Plunkett. “I’m a cautious person and that has played into the decision to not refill the position.”
He added: “In addition, I’m only one of three people (commissioners) here but this position is not at the top of my priority list.”
Director of Administration Dana Babcock will assume the responsibilities of media relations for the county commission. The county’s information services department will now manage the county’s public website.