Perryville City Administrator Brent Buerck received the Missouri Economic Development Council’s (MEDC) Governmental Member of the Year award at its annual conference.
According to MEDC Executive Director Brandon Atchison, MPA, the award is presented to an MEDC member who is employed by a unit of government but who isn’t a community-based economic developer.
“This year’s recipient, Brent Buerck, is dedicated to enhancing Missouri’s economic environment,” Atchison said, “He has been a pivotal figure in their city’s administration and economic development. Brent’s dedication to public service and his innovative approach to governance have significantly contributed to the growth and prosperity of Perryville. His leadership has been instrumental in implementing policies that foster economic development, enhance community well-being, and ensure sustainable growth.
“Brent has successfully spearheaded numerous projects that have attracted new businesses, created jobs, and boosted the local economy. His commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate complex challenges make him an outstanding and deserving individual for this recognition. Most recently, Brent helped organize volunteer efforts and cleanup following a tornado that caused significant damage in Perryville. Through innovative thinking, he spearheaded a whimsical 'Bucks 4 Beards' fundraiser, offering his beard as a canvas for community votes and raising money for tornado relief, with all the proceeds supporting affected citizens.”
In response to receiving the award, Buerck said, “There’s no way I get this recognition as an individual without the collective efforts of our community. We have a very good reputation in and among those around the state that we work with. This is just another way that reputation is being recognized.”
Previous award recipients include: 1999 – Mike Downing, CED; 2000 – Rick Childers; 2001 – J. Michael Seabaugh; 2002 – Jodi Krantz, CEcD; 2005 – Terry Maglich; 2006 – Greg Steinhoff; 2008 – Sallie Hemenway, CEcD; 2009 – Robert Miserez; 2010 – Jo Ann Dent; 2011 – Arnie Kreek; 2012 – Arnie Kreek; 2012 – Tony Grandison Jr., EDFP; 2013 – Mike Downing, CEcD; 2014 – Brenda Horstman; 2015 – Cheri Tune; 2016 – Andy Papen; 2018 – Alan Spell; 2019 – Rob Dixon, MoDED; 2020 – Rob Dixon, MoDED; 2021 – Mark Stombaugh, CEcD, EDFP; 2022 – Sharon Schenewerk, MoDED; 2023 – Maggie Kost, MoDED; 2024 – Jeff Pinkerton, MoDED.
