FOLLOWING THE RESIGNATION OF ROB WILLARD
Platte County has found its interim county treasurer.
Christopher Kendall has been appointed by the county commission to serve as interim county treasurer after the resignation of previous county treasurer Rob Willard.
Recently, Willard announced he would resign effective at the end of March to accept a position with a Kansas City law firm. However, with the announced appointment of Kendall as interim treasurer on Monday, March 17, Willard made his resignation effective on that same day.
According to a news release issued by the county, Kendall comes to the role of interim treasurer “with extensive expertise in financial management, organizational leadership, and community service, Kendall brings a wealth of experience and commitment to this critical role.”
Kendall is a lifelong Platte County resident with a career spanning over 30 years in finance, accounting, and leadership. Currently he serves as controller for the American International Charolais Association (AICA), a nonprofit dedicated to registering and promoting Charolais cattle nationwide. In this role, he managed finances, oversaw budgeting and payroll, and coordinated with local taxing jurisdictions, demonstrating his skill in fiscal responsibility and organizational efficiency.
Prior to AICA, Kendall worked as a client business consultant and project manager for Paladin FS, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in IT banking contracts, where he secured favorable terms for community financial institutions.
His career began at the Westin Hotel Company in Kansas City as an assistant controller, followed by various roles at First National Bank of Platte County, Clayco State Bank, Farley State Bank, and Strunk.
Kendall earned a bachelor of science in accounting from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1989 and enhanced his skills through advanced training in investment and asset/liability management, as well as a three-year graduate school of banking program.
He also holds a Master of Ministry from Colorado Theological Seminary (2017), “underscoring his dedication to both professional excellence and personal growth,” says the county news release.
Kendall has served as pastor of Salem Christian Church near Weston since 2015, leading church operations, providing spiritual guidance, and partnering with local charities. He has also worked as a substitute teacher for the West Platte School District, reflecting his commitment to education.
Kendall’s leadership extends to roles such as treasurer for the West Platte Booster Club and Friends of the Canto Chorale, as well as an elected Farley Special Road District Commissioner.
His volunteer efforts include coaching youth sports, advising the West Platte FCA, and serving as a camp counselor for the Nationwide Youth Roundup in Colorado.
“Christopher Kendall’s proven financial stewardship and dedication to our community make him an outstanding choice for Platte County Treasurer and we look forward to his leadership” said Scott Fricker, Platte County Presiding Commissioner. “We are confident his leadership will ensure sound management of county funds and support our region’s continued prosperity.”
Kendall is enthusiastic about his new role. “I am honored to serve Platte County and eager to apply my experience to safeguard and strengthen its financial future. I look forward to improving the County’s already strong financial position.” he said.
During Monday’s county commission meeting, Fricker said: “We did interview multiple candidates. It will be a bit of a challenge stepping into this. He is very qualified.”
Wes Minder, county administrator, said Kendall will serve as interim treasurer until an appointment is made by the governor.
Under state statute, the governor’s appointment will then serve until the next county general election, which will be in 2026. At the 2026 general election, a person shall be elected to fill the unexpired portion of the term.
First elected in 2012, in November of 2024 Willard had just been reelected for a fourth term that was not set to expire until 2028.
