Lawrence mayor honors seven predecessors with plaques at government center

Mayor Deborah Whitfield of Lawrence hosted a ceremony at the Lawrence Government Center to honor seven former mayors and unveil commemorative plaques recognizing their years of service.

Whitfield said, "I am so honored and pleased to be up here as the eighth mayor of the city of Lawrence," and asked attendees to join her in acknowledging the city—s past leaders and their families.

The mayor named seven predecessors during her remarks: Morris Settle (1960–1983), Robert Starett (1984–1987), Thomas Snyder (1988–2003), Deborah Cantwell (2004–2007), Paul Ricketts (2008–2011), Dean Jessup (2012–2015) and Steve Collier (2016–2023). Family members of multiple past mayors were invited to stand and be recognized.

Whitfield led a moment of silence for a recently deceased mayor; the transcript of the ceremony did not specify a name. She also thanked long-serving municipal staff and volunteers involved in planning the display and presentation of the plaques.

Several former mayors in attendance spoke briefly about their experience in office and thanked staff, family and community members for support. One former mayor recalled having to make difficult budget decisions after the introduction of tax caps; the transcript attributes that recollection to a former mayor but does not tie the remark to a single named speaker.

After remarks, attendees were invited to view the new plaques and continue informal conversation and refreshments in the hall.