The Heavy Constructors Association (HCA) of Greater Kansas City, which advocates for higher levels of funding for safer highways, roads, bridges and water treatment facilities across the region, has named long-time state legislator and civic leader Shalonn “Kiki” Curls as its Deputy Director.
Along with the association’s Executive Director, Bridgette Williams, Curls will work with local, state and federal officials to encourage safety studies and advocate for much-needed – and too often dangerously overdue – improvements to the region’s aging public infrastructure.
“The Heavy Constructors are committed to advocating for the millions of people who travel the too-often dangerous highways and bridges in our region, and there’s no one better to carry that message to city, county and state officials than former state senator Kiki Curls,” said Williams. “We are blessed and lucky to have Kiki Curls on our team.”
Former Missouri State Senator Curls most recently served as Commissioner for Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations in Jefferson City, providing oversight to multiple divisions and nearly 600 employees around the State. She was appointed by Governor Mike Parson in January of 2020. Prior to this appointment, she served 13 years in the Missouri Legislature; Nine (9) years as State Senator for the 9th District in Kansas City and four (4) years in the Missouri House of Representatives.
While serving in the Missouri Senate, Senator Curls served many years as the Ranking Member on major Legislative Committees, including Budget Appropriations, Transportation, Infrastructure & Public Safety, Gubernatorial Appointments and Small Business & Insurance. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly on issues regarding economic development and infrastructure, affordable housing, quality healthcare, criminal justice reform and education.