Kirkwood's Chief Administrative Officer, Russ Hawes, invites residents to explore the full potential of our vibrant community.
Q: Did you grow up here?
Russ: No, I’m originally from the East Coast; mostly North Carolina. I spent 18 years working in South Carolina before coming to Missouri.
Q: What brought you to Kirkwood?
Russ: Opportunity. Kirkwood aligned with my professional goals and offered the lifestyle my family was looking for.
Q: What’s your academic background?
Russ: I studied geography and city planning at UNC-Chapel Hill, and received my bachelor’s and master’s there. I also hold an associate degree in business administration. I enjoyed studying how communities grow and build their own character.
Q: What do you love about Kirkwood?
Russ: It’s incredibly livable: walkable neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown, and access to everything St. Louis offers. It really does feel like Mayberry.
Q: Tell us about your family.
Russ: My wife and I met in college. Our daughter graduated from Kirkwood High and Mizzou with a journalism degree. Our son is pursuing an MD/PhD at Virginia.
Q: You’re a musician too?
Russ: Yes! I’ve played guitar since I was 12. I love live music: bands like Rush, Styx, and Van Halen.
Q: What makes your job rewarding?
Russ: Working with our Mayor and City Council to help shape the quality of life here; balancing progress with preserving what makes Kirkwood special.
Q: What’s next for Kirkwood?
Russ: Smarter and more effective services through technology, investment in safety for all users of our streets and sidewalks, and a more active neighborhood near the Performing Arts Center.
Q: What should newcomers know?
Russ: Kirkwood has dedicated public servants—many with decades of service. That passion makes all the difference.
Summer Fun in Downtown Kirkwood
You don't have to travel far: downtown Kirkwood is your go-to summer destination. Come for the fun and stay for the small-town feel!
Concert Series in the Park
Pack a picnic and enjoy free live music:
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July 12: Raised on Radio
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July 26: Southside Creole Playboys
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August 19: Northbound Train
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August 23: Ticket to the Beatles
Peach Festival & Sidewalk Sale
Saturday, July 19 | 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Enjoy peach samples, live music by Fox Creek Band, and great bargains.
Hot Dog Dayz
11 a.m.–1 p.m. | July 18 & 25
Join Kirkwood Police, Library, and Parks & Recreation at Loewenau and Fillmore Parks for free hot dogs, games, and community fun.