Michelle Sumstad honored as first female deputy chief

The city council meeting held on September 16, 2024, at the council chambers was marked by a blend of formalities and community recognition. The session commenced with an invocation led by Laura Dean Wiley, who stepped in for Sergei Quintero, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Council members were present and accounted for, with Mayor Roland leading the proceedings. A motion was passed to rearrange the agenda, moving presentations and proclamations ahead of citizen requests, which received unanimous approval from the council.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Susan P. Block Distinguished Public Service Award to Michelle Sumstead, Deputy Chief of the Independence Police Department. Mary House, past president of the Junior Service League, presented the award, recognizing Sumstead's 29 years of dedicated service and her significant contributions to the community. Notably, Sumstead made history in 2023 as the first female member of the IPD command staff when she was promoted to deputy chief.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to honoring public service and community involvement, reflecting the values of the Independence community.