Independence Mayoral Candidates Discuss Key Issues

City Councilwoman Bridget McCandless and former Roofers Union Leader Kevin King share their views on the Nebius data center project, budget priorities, and revitalizing Independence.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:10pm

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A serene, cinematic painting of an empty city street corner with buildings in the background, the scene bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a nostalgic, contemplative mood about the political changes ahead for Independence.As Independence prepares to elect a new mayor, the city's streets reflect a sense of transition and anticipation for the future.Independence Today

Voters in Independence, Missouri will choose between City Councilwoman Bridget McCandless and former Roofers Local 20 Business Manager Kevin King in the April 7 mayoral election. KSHB 41 reporter Tod Palmer asked both candidates a series of questions about key issues facing the city, including the controversial Nebius data center project, budget priorities for new tax revenue, and strategies to address empty storefronts and affordable housing needs.

Why it matters

The mayoral election in Independence is an important one, as the city looks to chart a path forward on economic development, infrastructure investment, and quality of life issues. The candidates' responses provide insight into their leadership styles and policy priorities, which will shape the city's direction over the next several years.

The details

Both McCandless and King expressed support for the Nebius data center project, citing the long-term investment, expanded tax base, and job creation opportunities it will bring to Independence. However, they differed somewhat on how they would prioritize the use of new tax revenue from the project. King emphasized public safety, infrastructure, and restoring public transportation as top priorities, while McCandless highlighted retiring debt, investing in roads and bridges, enhancing parks, and expanding bus services. On the broader challenges facing Independence, the candidates agreed on the need to revitalize commercial corridors, increase affordable housing options, and promote economic growth to reverse the city's recent population decline.

  • The City Council approved the Chapter 100 Bonds for the Nebius data center project on March 2, 2026.
  • The mayoral election in Independence will be held on April 7, 2026.

The players

Bridget McCandless

City Councilwoman and the retired president and CEO of the Health Forward Foundation, who is running for mayor of Independence.

Kevin King

Former Roofers Local 20 Business Manager, who is also running for mayor of Independence.

Rory Rowland

The outgoing mayor of Independence who opted not to seek reelection.

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What they’re saying

“This is the kind of project Independence needs if we are serious about growing our economy and strengthening our financial future. The data center brings long-term investment, expands our tax base, and creates opportunity for our city to compete again.”

— Kevin King, Mayoral Candidate

“There are real opportunities created for Independence with this major private investment. This company will be the largest taxpayer in Independence history. The city-owned utility gets new generation and a necessary investment in its infrastructure.”

— Bridget McCandless, Mayoral Candidate

What’s next

Voters in Independence will head to the polls on April 7, 2026 to choose between Bridget McCandless and Kevin King as the city's next mayor.

The takeaway

The mayoral race in Independence highlights the city's need to balance economic development, infrastructure investment, and quality of life issues to attract and retain residents. The candidates' differing priorities on how to utilize new tax revenue from the Nebius data center project will be a key factor for voters to consider.