One mainstay of Clayton's current mayor, Michelle Harris, is long-term community involvement.
"Clayton is a great place to be. I encourage everyone to enjoy our parks, restaurants and unique small shops," she proclaims.
Michelle knows the city's diversity from being a 31-year resident of Clayton. Among community efforts that Michelle participates in, she's currently a board member of the Metropolitan Zoological Park & Museum District and the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis. She served on the founding boards of the Shakespeare Festival and the Clayton Century Foundation.
She began as mayor in April 2019, following 11 years of service as an alderwoman. Her professional background encompasses 18 years at Nestle and DuPont, as well as 11 years with her own consulting firm. She holds a bachelor's degree in art and education, as well as a master's degree in business administration.
She says the city is still dealing with COVID-19's impact.
"Clayton has a well-earned reputation as 'the' destination for dining, and we greatly value hosting locals, regional visitors and out-of-towners. We're eager for offices and hotels to be full and adding to our downtown's vitality. Elected leaders and business owners continue to work together to navigate these challenging times," she adds.
Michelle says with the current downturn in revenues, city leaders face tough decisions but will maintain a vision for the future.
"Some of our priority and future initiatives are already in motion, such as our Community Equity Commission and Commemorative Landscape Task Force, which will make Clayton an even more welcoming city to all. We've made major accomplishments in environmental sustainability, and improvements in energy usage and control of invasive species," she says.
Citywide surveys attest that residents are happy with above-norm city services for public safety, streets, parks and facilities, such as the Center of Clayton. "We're lucky to have an engaged, informed residential and business citizenry who continually bring good ideas and give their time and experience generously," says the mayor.
mharris@claytonmo.gov
Mayor's Office: 314.290.8470