By Amanda Lubinski
ALubinski@cherryroad.com
CLAY COUNTY — After overseeing daily operations of Clay County for three years, County Administrator Dianna Wright will retire in February of 2025.
Wright was appointed to the county’s top non-elected, administrative role in February of 2022 after a nationwide search that included 42 applicants and six finalists.
Before coming to Clay County, Wright’s career in public administration spanned three decades. Wright served as director for the economy focus area and resource management for 10 years in Olathe, Kansas, and was city administrator for Wentzville and Harrisonville. She began her career in public administration in Gladstone as assistant to the city manager/administrator of management services.
“During her tenure, Dianna has worked alongside the commission and county staff, guiding the implementation of the new charter form of government, leading numerous initiatives focused on enhancing services, developing workforce talent and strengthening partnerships with local communities,” wrote county leadership of her service to Clay County in an announcement of Wright’s retirement. “Wright worked closely with the commissioners to adhere to and advance their primary missions of investment in public safety and infrastructure.”
Milestones accomplished during Wright’s tenure with the county include the adoption of the strategic plan, adoption of the 2040 Compass Comprehensive Plan, the implementation of the county’s five-year capital improvement plan, preparations for the launch of the Senior Real Estate Property Tax Relief Program and the establishment of a countywide in-house GIS department.
“Wright has been committed to transparency and enhanced communication. In 2024, she initiated the Citizens Academy, a strategic overview of county departments, operations, programs and services,” reads the county leadership announcement of Wright’s retirement. “The bi-annual, six-week academy provides participants with an understanding of how their county government operates.”
Wright said it has been a great honor to serve Clay County and work with a dedicated team of public servants. “Together, we’ve achieved many accomplishments, from improving infrastructure to ensuring that our services meet the evolving needs of our residents,” she said. “I look forward to supporting a smooth transition as the county takes its next steps forward.”
Clay County Presiding Commissioner Jerry Nolte said the county is grateful for Wright’s leadership.
“Which has been marked by a deep commitment to serving the people of Clay County. As we initiate a search for our next county administrator, we remain committed to building on the solid foundation she has helped to create,” he said. “We wish Dianna the very best in her well-deserved retirement.”
The commission will be conducting a search to identify and appoint a new administrator. More details on the search and hiring will be published as they become available.
