Mayor Garner Welcomes Key Hires to Administration

Published on July 06, 2023

First-Ever Latina Chief of Staff to Join Mayor’s Team

Mayor/CEO Tyrone A. Garner announced the appointment of two key staff members to his team today. Steve Williams starts as Community Engagement & Welfare Advisor to the Office of the Mayor, effective today, July 6, 2023. Irene Caudillo will assume her role as Chief of Staff on Monday, July 10, 2023. Both Mr. Williams and Ms. Caudillo bring decades of community leadership and experience to the Unified Government in their new roles.

“I am excited to announce these key appointments,” said Mayor Tyrone A. Garner. “I am confident that with the many years of professional experience, love of Wyandotte County, and dedication in service to others, both will be of exceptional value to the great people of Wyandotte County, the Unified Government, and the vision of the Mayor’s office to facilitate making Kansas City, Kansas a great and safe place to live, work and raise a family.”

“It is an honor to continue the work in our community, said Chief of Staff Irene Caudillo. “I am ready to support the Mayor and the Unified Government staff in centering community needs and improving this city and county by meeting these needs.”

Steve Williams – Community Engagement & Welfare Advisor

Steve Williams is a Kansas City, Kansas native with more than three decades experience in public safety, youth mentoring, community outreach, problem solving, leadership, and neighborhood engagement. Williams has been an integral member of various community boards and organizations and is looking forward to serving as a liaison regarding community safety, open communication, empowerment, education, equity, and positive community engagement.  As Community Engagement and Welfare Advisor, Steve will be responsible for coordinating with community organizations on behalf of the Mayor’s office as well as identifying and facilitating the physical, social, and organizational welfare concerns of all Wyandotte County stakeholders. 

Irene Caudillo – Chief of Staff

Irene Caudillo has more than thirty years of proven nonprofit executive leadership. For the past ten years, Ms. Caudillo has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer for El Centro, a not-for-profit corporation established in 1976 and committed to improving the lives of Latinos and others through education, social, and economic opportunities. Ms. Caudillo has a demonstrated track record for collaboration, working across sectors, and support for our community and has been honored nationally and regionally for her service.

Ms. Caudillo will oversee the day-to-day operations of Mayor Garner’s administration. With her vast experience, Ms. Caudillo will assist in cultivating innovative partnerships to improve equity and opportunity for all that call Wyandotte County home.  Ms. Caudillo will be the first Latina Chief of Staff for the Unified Government.  

To read the full biographies for Irene Caudillo and Steve Williams, as well as learn more about the staff members and liaisons in the Mayor’s office, please visit our website Staff – Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City (wycokck.org).