Skip to main content

Attention: Most City Offices Relocating

Most City departments are relocating to the Independence Municipal Commons, 20201 E. Jackson Drive, in the coming weeks. We look forward to serving you in our new location!  To avoid any inconvenience, please check ahead before visiting our current Maple Avenue office, as staff and services may be in the process of moving.

Responsibility is to present a panel of three to the Mayor of residents of Independence (for at least four years) who are members of the Missouri bar who wish to be appointed as a Municipal Judge.

Membership Information

One Councilmember selected by the Council, who serves as Chairperson, two (2) registered qualified electors appointed by the City Manager (who are not members of the Bar), and two (2) members of the Independence Bar Association, elected by the Association. The appointments are for four year terms and there is a two term limit. Except for the Chairperson, members shall not hold any other public office or position.

Current Members:
  • VACANCY to be appointed by the Missouri Bar Membership
  • Councilmember Brice Stewart (Chair), term expires April 15, 2026, appointed by City Council
  • Robert Buckley, term expires March 30, 2027, appointed by Missouri Bar Membership
  • Libet Ojeda, term expires August, 11, 2026, appointed by the City Manager
  • Michael A Rose, term expires August 11, 2024, appointed by the City Manager