23 WEEKLY 2026
FEBRUARY
VOL 4 • NO. 07
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B A L D W I N
C I T Y
N E W S P A P E R
RUSS HARDING STEPS INTO ROLE AS BALDWIN CITY ADMINISTRATOR
After six months serving as Baldwin City’s interim administrator, Russ Harding has officially stepped into the role full time — a transition he describes as both a professional milestone and a deeper personal commitment to the community he calls home. Having long been rooted in Baldwin City, Harding said the shift from interim to permanent leadership carries added meaning. Unlike working in a larger city where decisions can feel distant, he explained that local government here is deeply personal.
“When you live and work in the same town, the decisions you make impact your neighbors, friends, and local businesses,” he
said. “That brings a strong sense of responsibility, but also a lot of pride in the work.” From Stability to Strategy During his interim tenure, Harding focused largely on maintaining stability — keeping projects moving forward, supporting staff, and ensuring city operations ran smoothly during a period of transition. Accepting the position permanently, he said, now allows him to shift toward long-term planning alongside the Mayor and City Council. “The interim role is about continuity,” he said. “Stepping into the permanent position allows us to look further ahead —
RUSS HARDING
setting strategic priorities and building systems that will serve Baldwin City well into the future.” City leaders and staff helped make the transition seamless, he added, noting that strong collaboration across departments allowed him to step into the role without disruption.
Experience Built Through Transition Serving in the position on an interim basis gave Harding a unique opportunity to experience the full scope of the job before officially accepting it. The sixmonth period, he said, offered valuable insight into the complexity of municipal operations — from infrastructure planning and budgeting to citizen engagement. It also strengthened relationships with department heads, council members, and community partners, something he believes will help guide decision-making moving forward. “The interim period removed any uncertainty,” he said. “It reinforced that this is where I can make the greatest impact.” Because he was already familiar with city operations and ongoing projects, Harding said he was able to maintain momentum during the transition. Established relationships within the organization also helped build trust and keep communication open during a time of change. Leadership Focused on Collaboration Harding describes his leadership style as collaborative, transparent, and solution-focused — an approach he believes reflects Baldwin City’s strong sense of community. “I believe in working closely with staff, elected officials, and residents to understand different perspectives,” he said. “Open communication and teamwork are key to moving forward effectively.” During his interim months, he said one of the most striking observations was the resilience of city staff, who continued to serve residents with dedication despite leadership changes.
“That reinforced for me how important strong systems and committed people are,” he said. Priorities for the Year Ahead Looking forward, Harding identified several key priorities, including maintaining efficient city operations, strengthening long-term planning, and continuing investment in infrastructure and public works projects. Responsible growth will remain a central focus, balancing development with Baldwin City’s small-town character. That includes thoughtful planning that protects green spaces and neighborhood charm while ensuring services and infrastructure keep pace with growth. He also emphasized the importance of communication and community engagement, noting that residents, businesses, and local organizations play an essential role in shaping the city’s future. “I want people to feel informed, involved, and confident their voices are heard,” he said. Opportunities on the Horizon Harding sees significant opportunity for Baldwin City in areas such as economic development, public space improvements, and partnerships with local schools and organizations. Supporting entrepreneurship and local businesses, he said, will be key to maintaining a vibrant and resilient local economy. He also plans to remain active in the community — attending events, meetings, and local gatherings — not only as an administrator but as a neighbor invested in Baldwin City’s success. “My goal is to stay visible, accessible, and engaged,” he said. A Commitment to Community As he begins this new chapter, Harding said he hopes residents know his approach will remain rooted in integrity, transparency, and steady leadership. “Baldwin City isn’t just where I work — it’s a place I’m invested in and proud to serve,” he said. “Local government works best when it reflects the voices of the people it serves.” With a focus on collaboration, responsible planning, and community connection, Harding said he looks forward to helping guide Baldwin City into its next phase of growth while preserving the character that makes it feel like home.