City Administrator Kris Simpson has announced his resignation after nearly 10 years of service to the City of Crestwood. Simpson will depart Jan. 31 to become city administrator for the City of Creve Coeur.
“This was a difficult decision, and one I made after careful consideration,” Simpson said. “I am proud of what the City has accomplished during my tenure and thankful for the support of our residents, the leadership of the Board of Aldermen, and the dedication our staff show every day.”
As part of the search for Simpson’s successor, the City has issued a request for proposals for professional recruitment services. Officials anticipate extending an offer to a new city administrator by July 2026.
To ensure continuity, the Board of Aldermen unanimously appointed Chief Jon Williams as acting city administrator, effective Feb. 1, while the search is underway. Mayor Shipley, the Board of Aldermen and City staff remain committed to maintaining normal City operations throughout the transition.
An ICMA Credentialed Manager, Simpson concludes a decade of leadership marked by significant progress and investment across the community. During his tenure, he oversaw:
- Redevelopment of the former Crestwood Mall
- Adoption of the first citywide comprehensive plan
- Updates to the City Code
- Construction of a new Public Works Facility
- Renovation of the Government Center
- Major park and playground improvements
- The start of construction on the new community center, The Cliffs
Since 2016, the City has nearly doubled its General Fund reserves and in 2024 received a AAA credit rating from Standard & Poor’s.
Mayor Scott Shipley thanked Simpson for his service.
“Kris guided Crestwood through challenging financial times and helped build a lean, efficient organization that delivers high-quality services to our residents,” Shipley said. “His integrity, judgment and commitment to public service have brought lasting value to our community. We will miss his leadership and wish him well in his next role.”
Throughout his career in Crestwood, Simpson led the City to receive numerous awards from the Government Finance Officers Association and the Municipal League of Metropolitan St. Louis. He has been active in the profession at the local, state and national levels, including service as president of the St. Louis Area City Management Association and as a board member of both the St. Louis Area Insurance Trust and the Missouri Municipal League. Simpson is also a graduate of Leadership St. Louis.
“Crestwood is a remarkable community with great neighborhoods, beautiful parks and excellent schools,” Simpson said. “But the residents who live here are what make this City special. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve Crestwood.”