Local Government
Savvy Community Direction, but “Small Town” Vibe
We’re a city who knows where we’ve been, and where we’re headed. Founded in 1838, Buchanan County is home to more than 85,000 individuals. St. Joseph is the largest city, with a population of over 76,000 residents. Set alongside the Missouri River bluffs, we’ve got our own unique identity and plans for our future even though we’re close to cities like Kansas City and Omaha. Our leadership and local government is focused on progress and resident needs, but with an approachable, welcoming atmosphere. Leadership is made up of residents and transplants, giving us a forward-thinking perspective with an appreciation for what makes us, us.
ELECTED OFFICIALS
In St. Joseph, we’re thankful for those who serve our community at all levels. We appreciate our voters who exercise their right to choose and to talk to leaders about their concerns. Together, we keep our city moving forward without losing our identity. Here are some helpful resources:
Click here to find specific officials and leadership names
St. Joseph City Council: Located at City Hall, 1100 Frederick
Buchanan County offices: Located at 411 Jules
St. Joseph School District Board: Located at 925 Felix, inside the Public Library
Missouri state leadership: Search for Missouri elected officials
CITY OF ST. JOSEPH
There’s so much to celebrate during the 175 years since our founding in 1843. As we approach St. Joseph’s 175th birthday bash, we welcome you and your family to make some memories with us. Founded by French fur trapper and trader Joseph Robidoux, we’re a city of stories — such as the Pony Express, Jesse James and many chapters of vibrant Native American culture. Take a walk along our downtown streets to the beautiful, domed Courthouse building or the architecturally-stunning City Hall building and park. As you take in the rolling bluffs, National Register neighborhoods and award-winning museums, you’ll see that the common story theme for St. Joseph is courage, adventure and innovation. The best is yet to come!
BUCHANAN COUNTY
St. Joseph is the county seat of Buchanan County, and the metropolitan center of Buchanan, Andrew, and DeKalb counties in Missouri and Doniphan County in nearby Kansas. Our population of 76,780, makes us the eighth largest city in the state. We’re known for miles of parkway trails, river bluff views, an intriguing downtown and as the home of Missouri Western State University and the Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp, among other amenities. We’re also one of the top counties in the nation for growth in agricultural sciences and animal health. Our Buchanan County elected officials serve with a community-first mindset, and we’re proud of our beautiful county courthouse dome — a constant reminder that we think onward and upward.
NORTHEAST KANSAS and NORTHWEST MISSOURI REGION
We’re more than a city. St. Joseph is a dynamic part of the northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas region. We’re not afraid to roll up our sleeves and work together for progress and planning, guided by entities like Mo-Kan — a designated regional planning commission (RPC) and economic development district (EDD). Mo-Kan is recognized by the states of Kansas and Missouri and the federal government to provide community and economic development services to 36 municipalities and six counties in northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas. The organization is also a leader in business development and financing services as part of a comprehensive growth strategy. (i.e., getting stuff done).
MISSOURI JOB CENTER
Is a new opportunity waiting for you? Come and get it. St. Joseph hosts a Missouri Job Center location, offering job listings and search services, skills training and resources for job seekers. As part of the American Job Center Network, the Missouri Job Center in St. Joseph offers employers job-matching services, hiring and recruiting events and customized training assistance at no cost. Our Job Center is an opportunity-matcher, but is also helping actively build a skilled, trained workforce for the future. Now that’s good work.
MISSOURI CONSERVATION
Why is St. Joseph a natural choice? Check out the Northwest Regional Conservation Office, located in a state-of-the-art building on the campus of Missouri Western State University. This expansive structure has live animal and taxidermy exhibits featuring Missouri conservation and wildlife, with agents on hand to answer questions — plus wooded trails and a pond on the property. While you’re there, find out from agents about the 23 unique conservation sites, ponds and areas in and near St. Joseph. With so many conservation experts and resources available, it’s easy to enjoy and learn about nature in St. Joseph.