Finnie named community developer of the year

Finnie Jan. 26 was named Community Developer of the Year by the Missouri Community Development Society during its annual conference in Springfield. The ceremony honored individuals and projects that have made exceptional contributions to the Missouri community.

Finnie was recognized for his role in the city's Vision 20/20 planning process - a long-term plan that helped move along initiatives over the last eight years including Jordan Valley Park, Hammons Field and an extensive parks and greenspace plan.

Finnie has been city manager since 1990 and will retire in April.

Also at the ceremony, Swope Community Builders was given the award for Community Development Project of the Year for its work on a commercial development in Kansas City. Julie Carter was presented the Distinguished Service Award for her role in the Missouri Department of Economic Development, both as a board member and as an instrumental force in rebuilding its awards program.

The theme of the conference was “Building Communities from Within,” and participants toured Springfield in a mobile workshop to learn about the city's downtown revitalization strategies.