City names Richard Kemple interim director of Independence Power & Light

City Manager Troy Anderson has named Richard Kemple interim director of Independence Power & Light. Kemple will begin serving in the role on August 8, following the departure of IPL Director Joe Hegendeffer. 

Kemple currently serves as deputy director of the City’s Municipal Services Department, helping oversee departmental operations, employees, infrastructure programs, capital projects and operating budgets. He has worked for the City of Independence since 2015, previously serving as collection system manager before being promoted to deputy director in 2020. 

“Richard brings decades of leadership experience, extensive knowledge of City operations and a strong technical background to this role,” City Manager Troy Anderson said. “His familiarity with our organization and his proven ability to guide employees and manage complex infrastructure systems will help provide stability and continuity for IPL during this transition.” 

During his time with the City, Kemple has helped lead major infrastructure and organizational initiatives, including improvements at the Rock Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, pump station electrical upgrades and the reorganization of several City utility and infrastructure divisions. He also helped guide the Water Pollution Control Division through the successful completion of the requirements of a federal consent decree. 

Kemple has more than 25 years of experience in utilities, infrastructure, engineering, operations and organizational leadership. Before joining the City of Independence, he held leadership and technical positions with the City of Garland, Texas; American Water Company; Lee’s Summit Water Utilities; BFGoodrich Aerospace; and Harmon Industries. 

His previous work includes managing utility operations and capital budgets, supervising electrical and mechanical maintenance programs, overseeing automated control systems and supporting major electrical infrastructure projects. His experience includes work involving substations, switchgear, motor control centers, variable-frequency drives and supervisory control and data acquisition systems. 

“I appreciate the opportunity to serve the community and support the employees of Independence Power & Light during this transition,” Kemple said. “IPL has a talented and experienced workforce, and I look forward to working with the team to continue providing safe, reliable electric service to our customers.” 

Kemple earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology from DeVry Institute of Technology and a Master of Business Administration from Keller Graduate School of Management. He also served in the United States Air Force as an aircraft crew chief. 

The City will provide additional information regarding its plans for permanent leadership of Independence Power & Light at a later date. 

About Independence Power & Light 
Independence Power & Light is a municipally owned electric utility serving residents and businesses in Independence, Missouri. IPL is committed to providing safe, reliable and responsive electric service to the community.