Mayor Randy Pogue

05/25/2026

I was asked recently whether crime is increasing in Kearney.

At first, I was honestly surprised by the question, but after talking through it, I understood where it was coming from.

Many of you have probably noticed more public posts like this from our Police Department. Increased visibility of enforcement activity can sometimes create the perception that crime itself is increasing.

What you’re seeing is not a change in our expectations it’s the continued commitment to proactive, professional policing and transparent communication with our community.

Over the last several years, I have intentionally prioritized equipping our officers with the tools, training, technology, and support they need to be proactive rather than reactive.

The result is officers identifying issues, making lawful stops, taking action when needed, and communicating that work with the community.

Kearney remains an incredibly safe community, and that doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because of great people, strong community partnerships, and a Police Department that shows up every day ready to serve.

Thank you to our officers for the work you do and for continuing to send the message that Kearney is a community that values safety, accountability, and being proactive in enforcement and patrol efforts.

Turns out that driving around with fake plates, warrants, and drugs is a great way to meet our police officers.

Today, our patrol officers stopped a vehicle near S. Prospect Street after observing switched license plates displayed on the vehicle. During the investigation, officers discovered the passenger had multiple active warrants for her arrest through the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County.

Inside the vehicle, officers also located packaged methamphetamine, smoking pipes, needles, and other drug paraphernalia. The 30-year-old passenger from Kansas City was booked into jail on her outstanding warrants, while the 38-year-old driver from Kansas City was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

05/25/2026

Today we remember those who gave everything in service to our country and honor the families who carry that sacrifice every day.

As you spend time with family, enjoy the sunshine, fire up the grill, travel, or simply enjoy a slower day, I hope we all take a quiet moment to reflect on the reason we have the freedom to do those things.

Grateful. Remembering. Never forgetting. 🇺🇸

05/23/2026

Quick drive through of our parks this morning enjoying the beautiful weather and snapped a picture of something that honestly isn’t uncommon around here but it’s a great reminder of how fortunate we are to have incredible staff serving our community every single day.

Our Parks Director, Eric, is one of many examples. Holiday weekend or not, weekends are often workdays behind the scenes making sure facilities are clean, fields are ready, parks look great, and our residents and visitors have an experience we can all be proud of.

A lot of this work happens when nobody is watching, but it absolutely matters. Grateful for Eric and our entire Parks team for the pride they take in serving Kearney. Thank you for all you do.

05/16/2026

One of the first Kearney officers I remember as a kid, spending weekends at my grandma’s house right across the street from the PD. John was always a steady presence and the definition of professionalism.

Really cool to have watched your entire career and see the impact you made on Kearney, the department, and so many officers along the way.

Appreciate all you’ve done, John. Enjoy retirement you’ve definitely earned it

The end of an era.

After nearly four decades with the Kearney Police Department, Captain John Stewart has officially retired, marking the close of an incredible 37-year law enforcement career. It’s the day every police officer hopes to one day reach — the successful end of a long, meaningful career spent serving others.

Captain Stewart began his career with Kearney PD in 1989 and became the longest serving officer still on the department. Over the years, he served in many important roles including Patrol Officer, Juvenile Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and ultimately Administration Captain.

For 37 years, Captain Stewart dedicated himself to the City of Kearney and its citizens. His leadership, experience, and steady presence helped shape generations of officers and made a lasting impact on this department and community. Simply put, Kearney PD will not be the same without him.

While we will miss him immensely, we are grateful to see him enjoy a well-earned retirement. Those who know John know exactly how he’ll be spending it - with family nearby, a Diet Coke in hand, and an old western playing on the TV.

Happy Retirement, John. You’ve earned it!

05/16/2026

Update: Matthew has been found. Thank you all.

Our officers are actively looking for Matthew, since he could possibly be in Kearney. We have also confirmed with KCPD his status as a missing person.

If you have information on his whereabouts, please call the Clay County Sheriff’s Department at 816-407-3700.

As a reminder, contacting us through the Dispatch Center is the quickest, most efficient way to reach our officers via radio. We don’t routinely monitor Facebook for information…but it’s a great way for us to put out information to the community!

05/16/2026

Beautiful morning at Jesse James Park.

Very thankful for the volunteer coaches who dedicate their time, energy, and patience to help provide such a meaningful experience for our kids. Communities like ours are stronger because of people willing to step up, invest in the next generation, and simply show up week after week.

Thank you to all the coaches, parents, and volunteers who make mornings like this possible.

05/16/2026

It’s a big weekend for our Kearney High School graduates and their families. We are so excited for all of you, and we can’t wait to see where life takes you next.

No matter where your next chapter leads, you will always have a community cheering you on here at home. We hope you continue to dream big, work hard, stay kind, and remember where you came from.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! We wish you the very best and are rooting for each and every one of you.

Once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog. 💜💛

05/14/2026

Super excited to see Officer Fulkerson rejoin KPD and to welcome Officer Bradshaw to the team!

Kearney is fortunate to continue attracting experienced, high quality law enforcement professionals committed to serving our community. Strong staffing and strong leadership within our police department matter, and additions like these continue to strengthen an already outstanding team.

Welcome to Kearney, Officer Bradshaw, and welcome back, Officer Fulkerson! Thank you both for your service and commitment to our community.

We’re excited to welcome two new(ish) faces to the Kearney Police Department family!

Officer Bradshaw was officially sworn in as our newest full-time officer. He joins us with previous experience from another metro-area law enforcement agency, and we’re excited to have him serving the Kearney community!

We also welcome back Officer Fulkerson as our “newest” part-time officer. Officer Fulkerson previously served full-time with KPD for nearly 8 years before continuing his career with another state law enforcement agency. We’re glad to have him back wearing the KPD patch once again.

Adding experienced officers like these helps strengthen our department and brings us closer to full staffing.

Welcome to Kearney Officer Bradshaw and Officer Fulkerson!

05/13/2026

Had the honor and privilege of presenting a proclamation to a dear friend as we celebrated his 99th birthday and recognized his service to our country, along with his continued dedication and volunteer service to the Kearney community at the Kearney Senior Center.

Moments like this are a reminder of the incredible people who helped build our community AND continue to impact others through humility, sacrifice, and servant leadership.

Happy 99th Birthday, Bill and thank you for your service, friendship, and example to all of us. 🇺🇸

05/02/2026

Not a bad way to head into the weekend.
Kearney showing off a little tonight.
Have a great Friday, everyone.