The St. Louis County Municipal League hosted its first annual Muni Awards last night at the Kemp Auto Museum, where several area cities were recognized for their exceptional commitment to collaboration and excellence in municipal government. Sports Director for NewsChannel 5, Rene Knott, served as the master of ceremonies and presented the “Muni” awards to several municipalities. This first annual Muni Awards, which had more than 220 people in attendance, also recognized the executive board of the St. Louis County Municipal League and the installation of its 2012-2013 officers.  While the installation of League officers has taken place for more than five decades, this is the first event featuring Muni Award for outstanding leadership in the region.

Webster Groves Mayor Gerry Welch, who serves as chairwoman of the Communications Committee which organized the event, welcomed guests. Judy Goodman, former Clayton alderwoman who also serves on the Communications Committee, kicked off the awards ceremony and introduced Knott. Mayor Rich Magee of Glendale then recognized the Executive Board and installed the St. Louis County Municipal League’s 2012-2013 officers. Prior to the awards presentation, the League’’ new President, Mayor Thomas P. Schneider of Florissant, offered brief remarks and recognized retiring President, Mayor Paul Marti of Oakland.

The City of Kirkwood accepted the award for Historic Preservation. Kirkwood was recognized for its emergency volunteer management which preserved operations of the historic train station in Kirkwood when Amtrak was forced to make sudden budget cuts. Also, the Kirkwood Historical Society was established in 1961, and in 1981, the Landmarks Commission was created, resulting in more than 90 designated historical landmarks throughout the city.

The new 2012-2013 League officers include President, Thomas Schneider, Mayor, City of Florissant; Vice-President, Arthur McDonnell, Mayor, City of Kirkwood; Finance Chairman, Scott Douglass, Mayor, City of Clarkson Valley. Executive board members are Patrick Green, Mayor, City of Normandy; Monica Huddleston, Mayor, City of Greendale; Pat Kelly, Mayor, City of Brentwood; Richard Lahr, Mayor, City of Des Peres; Rich Magee, Mayor, City of Glendale; Paul Marti, Mayor, City of Oakland; William Nolan Jr., Mayor, City of Sunset Hills; Debi Salberg, Councilmember, City of Webster Groves; Mike Schneider, Mayor, City of Overland; Gerry Welch, Mayor, City of Webster Groves; and David Willson, Mayor, City of Manchester.