Wyandotte County Began Search for Administrator
The Unified Government has enlisted a firm to find a permanent replacement for the county administrator position.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in People
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The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas has launched a national search for a new county administrator. The move follows the departure of David Johnston from the role in July 2026.
Why it matters
The search process is designed to fill a leadership void that has persisted since Alan Howze began serving as the interim administrator this past summer. Securing a permanent official is a critical next step for the county as it manages recent administrative turnover.
Applications for the county administrator position are due by Nov. 8, 2026 at 12 a.m. The Unified Government expects to make a final appointment in January 2027.
The players
Alan Howze
He is currently serving as the interim county administrator for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas.
David Johnston
He previously held the position of county administrator before departing in July 2026.
Dennis Rubin
He served as the Fire Chief and announced his upcoming departure from the department for the end of October 2026.
Strategic Government Resources
This is the recruitment firm selected by the Unified Government to identify candidates for the open administrator role.
The details
The Unified Government has contracted with Strategic Government Resources to manage the recruitment process. The selection procedure will incorporate feedback and participation from community stakeholders.
Timeline
David Johnston left the county administrator role in July 2026.
Dennis Rubin is scheduled to depart as Fire Chief at the end of October 2026.
Applications for the administrator role are due by Nov. 8, 2026 at 12 a.m.
The Unified Government expects to appoint a new administrator in January 2027.
Market Landscape
The search for new leadership follows a period of friction within the county government, including the no confidence vote by the KCK firefighters union in David Johnston and Dennis Rubin. This transition aims to stabilize administrative operations following high-profile executive departures.
Residents may see changes in administrative policy and leadership priorities once the new permanent official is appointed next year. The inclusion of community participation in the search process offers the public an opportunity to provide input on the county's leadership requirements.
The takeaway
The ongoing transition period represents an opportunity for the community to engage in the selection of a key public servant. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in upcoming finalist discussions to help shape the future direction of county management.
What happens next
The Unified Government is scheduled to conclude the application process on Nov. 8, 2026, with a final appointment expected in January 2027.
Further reading
For more information on local government leadership changes, visit the People section.
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