RESOLUTION NO. 070547

Honoring Jo Anna Edgerton and extending to her their appreciation, gratitude and respect for her work on behalf of Mayor Kay Barnes and the City of Kansas City, Missouri.

WHEREAS, before Jody Edgerton began her work for Mayor Kay Barnes in 1999, she had established a substantial record of international work with such clients as the Ford Foundation, the United Nations and the United States Department of State. Jody had also worked for previous municipal administrations on international initiatives; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Edgerton was responsible for establishing the Mayors Office on International Affairs and Protocol in 2000, a first for Kansas City. In addition, Jody has worked tirelessly with the City Manager, Mayor, and City Council in efforts to make Kansas City more active in the realm of international trade and cultural exchange. Among Jodys accomplishments are the establishment (in 2004) of the first Kansas City, Missouri International Affairs and Trade Office, the establishment of the first program to focus on business development between Kansas City and Mexico, the Mexiplex concept where similar businesses co-locate, and the first Casa KC program in Guadalajara. Jody has also been busy developing a relationship with Winnipeg and other collaborations that focus on business with Canada. Jody has not ignored international tourism, and has helped market Kansas City as the hub of North America and in so doing, has been instrumental in securing the Sister Cities International Conference 2008 in Kansas City, as well as organizing various international tourism summits in Kansas City; and

WHEREAS, Jody Edgerton has been dedicated to enhancing Kansas Citys visibility and reputation, and improving the Citys standing as a center of international trade and diplomacy. Jody serves Mayor Kay Barnes and the City with enthusiasm and commitment, never losing sight of her dedication to the City and its role in the world; NOW, THEREFORE,

BE IT RESOLEVD BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:

That the Mayor and Council do hereby honor Jody Edgerton and extend to her their appreciation, gratitude and respect for her work on behalf of Mayor Kay Barnes and the City of Kansas City, Missouri; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to Jody Edgerton with appropriate recognition and appreciation.

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