As I prepare to return to Iowa for a new position and reunite with my family, I want to take a moment to reflect on my time in Mexico, Missouri. This community has left an indelible mark on my heart, and it has been both an honor and a privilege to serve as Assistant City Manager and Director of Economic Development. Though my time here was shorter than I had anticipated, it was filled with significant moments of growth, collaboration, and a deep sense of community.

When I first arrived in Mexico in February 2021 as CEO of Audrain Community Hospital, I was welcomed with open arms. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, the hospital could not overcome its financial challenges and closed its doors in March 2022. This was a difficult time for all of us, but the resilience of this community shone through as we worked tirelessly to explore options for reopening. While those efforts did not lead to the outcome we had hoped for, they laid the groundwork for what was to come.

In February 2023, I was honored to join the City of Mexico as Assistant City Manager and Director of Economic Development. I am deeply grateful to Bruce Slagle for taking a chance on me and investing in my professional development. From day one, I was committed to making a positive impact on this community. One of our significant achievements was collaborating with the Governmental Healthcare Committee to contract with the Forvis Group for a feasibility study on a new hospital in Mexico. The study confirmed that a critical access hospital could indeed thrive here, given the county's demographics—an essential step forward in addressing our community’s healthcare needs.

In April 2024, the Governmental Healthcare Committee made a significant move by entering into a non-disclosure agreement with Boone Health, with the intent to build a new critical access hospital. By July 2024, the County, City, and Hospital Foundation had pooled resources to purchase the old hospital’s real estate, ensuring that this vital asset remained within the community’s control. This development represents hope and progress for Mexico, and I am confident it will lead to improved healthcare services for the entire region.

Beyond healthcare, we have made strides in economic development and community revitalization. Establishing MainStreet Mexico as a 501(c)(3) organization marks a milestone in our efforts to revitalize downtown Mexico. This work will continue with the support of the City, the board of directors, and many dedicated community volunteers.

With the backing of Progress Mexico, Audrain County, and the Tourism Commission, we developed a video showcasing the unique value of living and working in our community. This project highlighted Mexico's charm and potential, and will be used to attract new residents and businesses alike.

We also worked with our Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority to purchase a downtown building for the development of a business incubator. Supported by a $100,000 USDA Rural Business Development Grant, this initiative will provide a nurturing environment for new entrepreneurs and help drive economic growth in our city.

Just last week, we celebrated the announcement that Western Smokehouse Partners will be coming to Mexico, bringing 250 new jobs to our community. This success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in making Mexico a vibrant and thriving place to live and work.

I have been privileged to witness the start-up of Tyronn Lue’s C2C initiative and am thrilled by the excitement surrounding this school year. Hearing the success stories from the attendance summit and the new Link Crew initiative gives me so much hope for the future of Mexico’s youth. Coach Lue has created something here that should be replicated, and I look forward to finding ways to make that happen.

Effectively developing the workforce in any community is typically achieved through education and training. However, Mexico has discovered something equally important: retaining the workers you’ve already trained. I had the opportunity to witness our Chamber’s Workforce Resource Assistance Program (WRAP) in action, and the impact it’s having on retaining our local workforce is remarkable. By meeting with employees struggling with non-work-related issues and providing them with the tools to work through these challenges, this program offers much-needed support to our employers and strengthens our community.

As I prepare to say goodbye, I want to express my deepest gratitude to this community. Your support, collaboration, and unwavering belief in the future of Mexico have been truly inspiring. While I am excited about the new opportunities that await me in Iowa, I will always carry with me the memories and friendships I have made here.

Thank you, Mexico, for welcoming me into your community and allowing me to be a part of your journey. Though my path is leading me in a new direction, I leave with a full heart and immense pride in what we have accomplished together.

Amy O’Brien

Director of Economic Development/

Assistant City Manager

Amy O’Brien’s last day with the City of Mexico is Friday, Sept. 6.